Israeli flag carrier plane lands in the Philippines for the first time in seven years

The El Al Israel Airlines Ltd. with Flight No. LY 063 landed at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) this morning,14 October 2020, at 6:25 AM. Ambassador Rafael Harpaz said that this historic flight symbolizes the good relations between Israel and the Philippines.

It was in November 2013 when two Israeli planes carrying humanitarian aid first touched the Philippine soil via Cebu airport to assist the Philippines in wake of Typhoon Yolanda. It was one of the biggest relief operations that Israel has ever conducted. The Israeli delegation of doctors, nurses, and paramedics and Israeli Foreign Ministry and Defense personnel provided a field hospital and helped repair damaged infrastructures such as schools and water facilities particularly in Bogo, Cebu.

Onboard the El Al plane were 250 Filipino students from different agriculture universities and colleges in the Philippines who completed their 11-month on-the-job training course of combined academic learning and practical work in the latest farming techniques and technologies in Israel. The program offered the students the opportunity to study at specialized agricultural academic centers and work in modern farms throughout Israel. Approximately 5,000 Filipino students already participated in this Agro Studies program. Another batch of flight from Israel to the Philippines is scheduled later on month.

The Embassy looks forward that after the COVID-19 pandemicand through the existing visa-free agreement, more Filipino tourists will come to visit Israel and vice versa; and hopefully,the direct flight services between the two countries will be implemented soon. 

 Source: Embassy of Israel Manila

PETA’S STORYTELLING SUNDAYS TELLS ISRAEL-PH HISTORY

QUEZON CITY, Philippines – The Philippine Educational Theater Association’s (PETA) weekly online series, Storytelling Sundays, embarks on a unique partnership with the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines to tell a heartwarming tale about survival and the friendship between Filipinos and the Jews, borne out of a time of persecution and suffering.

Storytelling Sundays was one of PETA’s first initiatives in June 2020 to bring the theater experience to the digital platform. With a mix of different storytelling and performance techniques such as animation, shadow puppetry, musical numbers, and more, Storytelling Sundays explored different tales about Philippine history, heroes, and heroism. But apart from that, the series’ writer, Felinda Bagas, says that they were also looking for something new, like a part of Philippine history or a “lesser known hero” seldom taught in schools.

“The story of the Manilaners came up,” Felinda Bagas reveals. “It’s a very interesting story; it’s just the kind we were looking for. But there is no children’s book about the Manilaners yet. We decided right then that we’ll just do it, write and produce a children’s story about the Manilaners for Storytelling Sundays.” With the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines as a partner in the project, PETA continued to develop the story eventually called The Doors of Chai, written by Felinda Bagas and featuring PETA President Cecilia B. Garrucho as the storyteller.

The Doors of Chai narrates the journey and friendship of two children – both displaced, both grieving for the homes they had to leave behind, both struggling with being in a strange place – who find comfort and acceptance in each other. It is set during the enactment of then-Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon’s Open Door Policy, which allowed Jews to seek refuge in the Philippines and escape the Nazi regime and the Holocaust.

“We will never forget this. Most countries shut their doors, but the Philippines, through its leader, President Quezon, decided to open its doors,” says Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Rafael Harpaz. “The legacy of President Quezon will always be carved on our hearts.” Israel and the Philippines continue to exhibit their friendship to this day by supporting each other in diplomatic, economic relations, and more, especially in times of crisis. According to PETA Artistic Director and The Doors of Chai director Maribel Legarda, this theme of friendship in times of crisis was what compelled PETA to pursue this unique Storytelling Sundays episode.

“I think this is a great message especially now during a pandemic. We should be unifying ways to empathize and be compassionate with each other,” says Maribel Legarda. “That’s one of the things that compelled PETA to do this – the beauty of the story of two nations helping each other in times of trouble. This can resonate through generations because there may always be some sort of war or pandemic the world deals with, but what’s important is our capacity to be able to rise above the challenges and make a better world in spite of them.”

Set to be the seventeenth episode of Storytelling Sundays hosted by John Moran, The Doors of Chai is a rare gem of a history lesson. According to Felinda Bagas, the heroism in the story and in the Open Door Policy roots from compassion. “Heroes became heroes because they cared enough for others. They found the strength and courage to go beyond what they think they are able to do for the sake of other people,” she says.“That’s what The Doors of Chai is all about: simple acts of heroism – of ordinary people, of an ordinary child – that led to the survival of a generation.”

The Doors of Chai also features Neil Daza as the director of photography, with animation by Ellen Ramos, music by Jeff Hernandez, and sound design by Jethro Joaquin. 

“I would like to extend my thanks to PETA for initiating this partnership with the Embassy,” says Ambassador Harpaz. “Thank you for assisting us spread this great story in the history of Israel and the Philippines’ friendship.”

This episode is testament to viewers that we can be heroes to each other any day. During this pandemic, The Doors of Chai can be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who watch it.

Tune in on PETA’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PETATHEATER or Israel in the Philippines’ official Facebok page at www.facebook.com/IsraelinPhilippines for the premiere of Storytelling Sundays Episode 17, The Doors of Chai, on October 18 (Sunday) at 7:00 PM.

10 & 11/F Avecshares Center, 1132 University Parkway, North Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City 1634

Telephone No. 883-9500 ● Fax No. 883-9555 ● E-mail Address: info@manila.mfa.gov.il

“The story of the Manilaners came up,” Felinda Bagas reveals. “It’s a very interesting story; it’s just the kind we were looking for. But there is no children’s book about the Manilaners yet. We decided right then that we’ll just do it, write and produce a children’s story about the Manilaners for Storytelling Sundays.” With the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines as a partner in the project, PETA continued to develop the story eventually called The Doors of Chai, written by Felinda Bagas and featuring PETA President Cecilia B. Garrucho as the storyteller.

The Doors of Chai narrates the journey and friendship of two children – both displaced, both grieving for the homes they had to leave behind, both struggling with being in a strange place – who find comfort and acceptance in each other. It is set during the enactment of then-Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon’s Open Door Policy, which allowed Jews to seek refuge in the Philippines and escape the Nazi regime and the Holocaust.

“We will never forget this. Most countries shut their doors, but the Philippines, through its leader, President Quezon, decided to open its doors,” says Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines Rafael Harpaz. “The legacy of President Quezon will always be carved on our hearts.” Israel and the Philippines continue to exhibit their friendship to this day by supporting each other in diplomatic, economic relations, and more, especially in times of crisis. According to PETA Artistic Director and The Doors of Chai director Maribel Legarda, this theme of friendship in times of crisis was what compelled PETA to pursue this unique Storytelling Sundays episode.

“I think this is a great message especially now during a pandemic. We should be unifying ways to empathize and be compassionate with each other,” says Maribel Legarda. “That’s one of the things that compelled PETA to do this – the beauty of the story of two nations helping each other in times of trouble. This can resonate through generations because there may always be some sort of war or pandemic the world deals with, but what’s important is our capacity to be able to rise above the challenges and make a better world in spite of them.”

Set to be the seventeenth episode of Storytelling Sundays hosted by John Moran, The Doors of Chai is a rare gem of a history lesson. According to Felinda Bagas, the heroism in the story and in the Open Door Policy roots from compassion. “Heroes became heroes because they cared enough for others. They found the strength and courage to go beyond what they think they are able to do for the sake of other people,” she says.“That’s what The Doors of Chai is all about: simple acts of heroism – of ordinary people, of an ordinary child – that led to the survival of a generation.”

The Doors of Chai also features Neil Daza as the director of photography, with animation by Ellen Ramos, music by Jeff Hernandez, and sound design by Jethro Joaquin. 

“I would like to extend my thanks to PETA for initiating this partnership with the Embassy,” says Ambassador Harpaz. “Thank you for assisting us spread this great story in the history of Israel and the Philippines’ friendship.”

This episode is testament to viewers that we can be heroes to each other any day. During this pandemic, The Doors of Chai can be a source of comfort and inspiration to all who watch it.

Tune in on PETA’s official Facebook page at www.facebook.com/PETATHEATER or Israel in the Philippines’ official Facebok page at www.facebook.com/IsraelinPhilippines for the premiere of Storytelling Sundays Episode 17, The Doors of Chai, on October 18 (Sunday) at 7:00 PM.

Source: EMBASSY OF ISRAEL

MANILA

10 & 11/F Avecshares Center, 1132 University Parkway, North Bonifacio Global City, Taguig City 1634

Telephone No. 883-9500 ● Fax No. 883-9555 ● E-mail Address: info@manila.mfa.gov.il

Noted Journal

I recently treated myself to the slim notebook bundle from local brand Noted Journal PH. I chose this shop because of the following:

• It is a woman-led small business that sells handmade vegan leather notebooks and journals.

• They have a reputation for delivering quality notebooks among the local planner scene.

• They have a slim notebook bundle with a vegan leather cover which is perfect for customization.

I was not disappointed with the journal. On top of that, I also won a passport journal and two vegan leather desk bins from their recent giveaway. I am truly lucky to have chosen this shop!

I wasted no time in customizing this within the day of receiving it. I used my Crafts Delight stickers (another local, woman-led small business!) to turn the grid notebook into a 2021 planner. It was an easy and relaxing process. I am happy because the notebook lies completely flat, and the gel ink I use does not bleed through its pages.

This is not a sponsored post, I am just genuinely happy with the slim notebook bundle and handmade goodies that I won. I hope that you will consider Noted Journal on your next journal purchase. You surely won’t regret it!

Glittering By Edsa

I got to visit the new Pulseras by Kim boutique along EDSA, Quezon City. It was a treat to see one of my favorite local jewelry brands grow and thrive. I have been their customer for two years now, and I still enjoy getting new pieces from them every now and then.

I commend them for coming up with fresh pieces and ideas even in the new normal, such as these acrylic earring holders that enable customers to “try on” without actually putting them on.

I also discovered from their staff Ate Min that all their jewelry is local. They do not import from overseas, so each piece is a labor of love by a local artisan.

I hope that you will order a Pulseras by Kim piece soon! Visit their new store or order online now.

TECNO Mobile’s Pouvoir 4 brings a power-packed, affordable entertainment device to consumers

What can you get for PhP5,000 these days that will also help beat boredom while on indefinite staycation at home? A couple of books? A few games? How about all those and more in a single device, and with several hundred pesos to spare?

For only P4,590.00, TECNO Mobile’s Pouvoir 4 and Php5990 and  Php6990 for the Pouvoir 4 Pro models can give consumers hours and hours of uninterrupted ultimate entertainment experience – be it gaming, vlogging, photography or watching videos and movies – thanks to its big 6,000mAh battery capable of powering the phone for up to four days straight on a single charge.

Building on the local market’s increasing levels of digital content consumption global premier mobile phone brand, TECNO Mobile has a specific focus on delivering flagship-like entertainment experiences with a power-packed performance.   The latest addition to its popular Pouvoir series, Pouvoir 4’s larger- than-life battery makes it a sensational device that elevates user experience and delivers endless entertainment possibilities without interruptions.

800 minutes of movie and music experience on a single charge

The Pouvoir 4’s massive 7-inch display screen provides a 90.55 percent screen ratio that gives consumers a wider visual area, completely transforming their viewing experience. Featuring class-leading 480-nit brightness capabilities, the super large display provides users with a cinema-level immersive experience when watching their favorite shows and movies.

The phone’s dual speakers provide clean and crisp stereo sound that truly engages consumers like never before.   Powered by Dirac, Pouvoir 4 delivers a digital sound solution based on acoustic measurement and correction, allowing users to enjoy a high-quality immersive entertainment experience.

Over 650 minutes of action-packed gaming

For gamers, the Pouvoir 4 unleashes a brand-new perspective to competing with friends with specifications that reimagine gaming experiences.

The Pouvoir 4 features a  32GB+3GB big memory while the Pouvoir 4 Pro comes in 64GB + 4GB and 128GB + 6GB memory options ensures that users have a smooth glitch-free gaming experience. Operating on HiOS 6.0 which is built on Android Q, the phone provides better interaction design letting users view important notifications during gaming time with minimal interruption. Built with gamers in mind, the Pouvoir 4 offers bespoke features such as a specific shooting Intelligent scheduling of system resources to ensure a high-quality experience. The phone also utilizes a magic button that can be used as fire key in arcade and shooting games as well as a Screen Off Gaming Mode that saves more than 50 percent of battery power.

Powering vloggers with an AI-powered camera and HD content capabilities  

TECNO Mobile didn’t stop there. The Pouvoir 4 comes with an artificial intelligence(AI) quad multi-function camera that allows users the ability to produce top-of-the-line video quality allowing for a unique vlogging experience.

The device is equipped with a 13MP AI quad camera, plus two 2MP cameras and an AI lens at the rear, and an 8MP dual flash camera at the front. The main camera packs a F1.8 big aperture and 8X digital zoom with a 77-degree shot angle that produces HD video recording function. The phone also comes with a low light video record mode that automatically brightens video shots in the dark.

The Pouvoir 4 comes loaded with a range of cool features such as face unlock, fingerprint sensor for optimized security along with a unique button along the side to wake up a Virtual Google assistant, all packaged in a straight and elegant design that reflects TECNO Mobile’s brand and style in their products.

The Pouvoir 4 is available at partner retail stores in  Ice Jadeite, Cosmic Shine, Fascinating Purple color options for Pouvoir 4 and Fascinating Purple, Misty Grey and Ice Jadeite for Pouvoir 4 Pro.

For more updates, visit www.tecno-mobile.com/ph. Follow TECNO Mobile Philippines on facebook.com/TECNOMobilePH and get a chance to win your own Pouvoir 4.

###

About TECNO Mobile

TECNO Mobile is a premium smartphone brand from TRANSSION Holdings. Upholding the brand essence of “Expect More”, TECNO Mobile is committed to giving the masses access to latest technology at accessible prices, allowing the consumers to reach beyond their current limitations and uncover a world of possibilities. TECNO Mobile understands the needs of consumers from different markets and provides them with localized innovations across a product portfolio featuring smartphones, tablets, and feature phones. TECNO Mobile is a major global player with presence in around 60 emerging markets across the world. It is also the global Official Tablet and Handset Partner of Manchester City Football Club. For more information, please visit: www.tecno-mobile.com

Source: Tecno Mobile

Mang Tae

I recently crocheted three amigurumis of the Mang Tae rag doll from the Netflix series It’s Okay to Not Be Okay. I used the pattern and materials from Oh My Yarn!, a local shop that sells yarns, notions, and essentials for knitters and crocheters. Since they are based at Divisoria, prices are guaranteed to be reasonable. They carry reputable brands of notions to ensure that crafters can enjoy their tools for many years to come.

I enjoyed the pattern which was originally designed by OMY (you may purchase the pattern here) because it was easy to follow and understand. The amigurumi kit (I got Kit A, which you may purchase here) was generous and I was able to make three dolls using three different hook sizes (3.5mm, 4.5mm, and 5.0mm). This project was the perfect weekend getaway for my mind, especially since staying at home for the past six months could get stifling at times.

Crochet has been therapeutic for me because I was able to get lost in the stitches of my projects. I highly recommend this craft for everyone. It is not just for old ladies anymore. With shops like OMY, it is easy to get access to quality tools and yarns to jumpstart your crafting journey at home.

Happy crocheting!

Alessandra de Rossi signs with Lilystars Records; releases remastered version of “Make It Better”

It’s official: ADR, the ambient music project of actress/producer/director/writer Alessandra de Rossi, officially joins the growing roster of music acts under Manila-based indie label, Lilystars Records.

Her first major project as a solo artist is the re-release of the landmark single “Make It Better”—now out on all digital platforms worldwide this October 2, 2020 (Friday). Delicately arranged with ethereal soundscapes, trip-hop beats, and New Age-inspired vocals, ADR’s self-penned and self-produced electro-pop number has been given a remastered treatment, making it sound more polished than ever.

WATCH THE MUSIC VIDEO OF “MAKE IT BETTER”HERE.

Written in as early as 2010, “Make It Better” is a product of its time: a confessional outlet that simmers with disappointment and heartbreak. “It’s supposedly written for someone, but maybe I was looking for the exact words that I really wanted to tell myself,” the multi-hyphenate artist shares in a statement. “But dedicating it to someone else felt easier. Is it too vague? Don't worry, the feeling is mutual.”

Aside from “Make It Better,” ADR’s debut record, Adrift will also make its way to several music platforms soon in remastered format. Initially released in 2012, the 13-track chillout, electronic and ambient album was made available for free download as a zip file. 

“I was told by so many, that no one would buy my music because it’s not pop enough for radio,” ADR said. “But it’s 2020: everything is much more accessible, thanks to all online streaming platforms. I'm just really happy that people who don't have access to laptops or computers can now finally hear it through their phones. And skip throughout the whole song, if it's not pop enough.”

Music was once just a hobby for ADR, and dropping old and new music under a record label felt very new to her, despite giving out songs for free since 2008. “Now under Lilystars, it makes me feel crazy to be lined up with musicians who are really legit, and I’m still trying to let everything sink in. I don’t know if I should be terrified or very terrified.”

The remastered version of “Make It Better” is now available worldwide via Lilystars Records.

Source: Nyou

syd hartha reflects on her self-awakening with new single “hiwaga”

In less than two years of being signed under Sony Music Philippines, syd hartha quickly rose to prominence with compelling pop/folk anthems that expertly balance lyrical depth with relatability and social relevance. From taking a pro-woman stand on “ayaw” to documenting the importance of self-restraint on “paru-paro,” the young singer-songwriter marks a clear step forward in terms of exploring outsider themes that even her contemporaries would seem to avoid. 

Having that same grasp of writerly elegance without resorting to repeating herself, syd hartha takes a moment to reflect on her personal actions through her latest single, “hiwaga”—a stunningly produced, stripped-down tune that deals with self-awakening and healing in preparation to becoming “the best version of herself”—to reference a line from the coming-of-age film, Lady Bird. 

Writing from a place of newfound perspective and riveting wisdom, syd wrote “hiwaga” as a reminder that no matter who you are and what you may be going through, you are still capable of being part of a better change. “Basically, the love you have for yourself reflects to everyone and everything around you,” the critically acclaimed musician explains. “There was a time in my life where I felt so stuck and started to question my existence and the reason for everything. What inspired me to write this song is my awakening to the fact that I was given this life for a reason. I want to heal so I can be the best version of myself for everyone around me and I want to inspire people to do the same.”

Quite a diversion from her usual sound, “hiwaga” is produced by Johnoy Danao, and performed with her backing band consisting of Bea Fabros, Raisa Racelis and Pat Sarabia. According to syd hartha, the track was recorded at the confines of the musicians’ homes under the guidance of Johnoy Danao. “Initially, we thought of a big production incorporating more instruments like horns, but we decided we wanted to give the song a lot of room to breathe and let the lyrics shine.” syd adds, “recording ‘hiwaga,’ was definitely challenging because it was our first time producing a single without seeing each other.”

The song also features a rap verse from syd herself, who admits that hip-hop has greatly influenced her songwriting. “As someone who's so fond of several hip-hop artists’ writing and delivery, I noticed how stronger and more effective it is when the message is somehow spoken instead of sung. Also, when I wrote ‘hiwaga,’ it all started with just words; it was me having a conversation with myself. I decided then that I wanted the feel to be more conversational and more focused on the message of the lyrics.” 

syd hartha’s “hiwaga” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Source: Nyou

40 For Rizal Medical Center

I recently dispatched 40 earsavers to the nurses of Rizal Medical Center. This marks my last batch of earsaver donations. It has been a privilege to volunteer for Earsavers for Lifesavers PH, the nonprofit that has inspired me to help frontliners while under quarantine.

I have donated over 2,950 earsavers to our brave frontliners. It was an honor to get to know some of these frontliners virtually, and I also gained new friends through the nonprofit. I realized that I am capable of serving others even while I am at home. I will never forget this experience.

For now, I will go back to freelance writing, and volunteering for other organizations. I will also crochet and knit for fun whenever I have the time.

I hope that you will also find it in your heart to volunteer during the pandemic. It is the best way to boost our frontliners’ morale and it will also give you immeasurable joy.

God bless us all!

Interviewing the Future

I got to interview the scholars of HOUSE Foundation for two days, and I must say that it was one of the highlights of my quarantine. The mock interviews were designed to prepare the learners for real-world job interviews upon graduation. I am very proud of these students as they were able to answer my questions. Best of all, these learners have displayed the following:

1. They were proud to be working students- This is not an easy feat, and they explained how it has taught them time management and flexibility.

2. Messy Bessy taught them to be positive- The learners work for Messy Bessy, HOUSE Foundation’s partner social enterprise and learning lab. Since most of them are underserved, Messy Bessy has instilled in them the power of being optimistic, and how this could magnet blessings their way.

3. These learners are grateful- They have displayed gratitude for the gift of education and work, and they are excited to apply their lessons in the real world. I was inspired by their gratefulness, and I am surely thankful for the opportunity to meet them.

Volunteering during this pandemic has given my life meaning and value. I am already done with my work for Earsavers for Lifesavers PH, yet I am still continuing this addiction for helping others virtually from home! It is a gift to share my time and resources to those in need. It is my prayer that more people will do the same.

God bless us all!

Reading Cozily

I enjoyed crocheting this gadget/book cozy using the crochet kit by The Attic Yarn and Craftery. This was a joy to create. I finished it in an afternoon, while listening to a podcast. It s such an easy pattern to follow, and after the foundation chain, it was practically mindless.

This is not a sponsored post. I just enjoyed my time making this, and I think you will too! It is exclusively available on The Craft Central.

Happy crafting!

Maris Racal shows her introspective side on new single “Not For Me”

Aside from making a name for herself as one of the breakout youngactresses of her generation, Maris Racal has successfully dabbled in writing her own songs and challenging industry expectations with her intimate and refreshing take on pop music. From penning the chart-topping confessional “IkawLang Sapat Na” to collaborating with Rico Blanco on the city pop-influenced ditty “Abot Langit,” Racal is surprisingly an effective chronicler of love anthems for the modern age—a guitar-toting songstress known for balancing commercial appeal with artistic integrity.

Bursting with youthful fervor and charismatic edge, Maris Racal’s latest single “Not For Me” stretches her introspective side of music-making to interesting places, while retaining the accessibility of her recent crossover hits. Her resounding confidence translates perfectly into the musical output, but it’s her conversational and matter-of-fact songwriting style that earns the stripes, revealing a degree of self-assuredness that comes with experience.

Inspired by Britpop acts such as Aqualung and folk-popchanteuses like Lily Allen and Regina Spektor, Racal wrote “Not For Me” not so much for intriguing unconventionality, but as an outlet to express herself in a way that feels truthful and inherently raw. The driving piano chords and the soaring arrangements give her storytelling a more authentic spin, lending it an effortless breeziness while making sure it doesn’t lessen the emotional impact of the song.

With “Not For Me” putting a spotlight on her songwriting strengths, Maris Racal explores the complexities of romantic uncertainty with a surprisingly nuanced approach—unfiltered, no longer afraid of possibilities, and ready to own the moment. 

“Not For Me” is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines. 

Source: Nyou

The Gift of Time

I recently crocheted these small gift items for my newborn nephew. The first two photos show a beanie and a pair of booties for his teddy bear. I finished these while listening to podcasts.

Meanwhile, I crocheted this beanie and these booties for my baby nephew. I used milk cotton yarn from The Attic Yarn and Craftery. I am pleased with the results, as I crocheted these while listening to an Ebe Dancel online concert.

I love how the new normal has forced me to be creative with my time at home. I give the gift of time whenever I share a handmade item to a loved one. It is my hope that they will also appreciate my gifts, as they have been made with a lot of heart.

Knitting Joy

I recently finished knitting this chunky scarf. I used Cotone Grande yarn from Oh My Yarn in the shade coffee. I intend to give it as a Christmas present, and I finished this early to make sure that it is done by then. The recipient is special to me, and I hope that he will like it.

Knitting is a welcome break from crochet as it requires me to use both of my hands to control the two needles. With crochet, I only use my right hand to manipulate the hook, as my left hand controls the yarn’s tension. My process usually involves a lot of music and podcasts. For this scarf in particular, I was able to finish two novels. Crochet requires more focus, while knitting allows me to work on autopilot. Hence, the two completed novels as I worked on this scarf.

I hope to finish more scarves while on quarantine! It is a relaxing endeavor that enables me to create gifts for my loved ones.

Stay safe and healthy, everyone!

Project Orange chronicles the growing pains of romance on “Play Pretend”

In less than three years, Project Orange has slowly but surely gained traction outside of Bacolod City’s relatively small but thriving music community. Thanks to their maiden singles “Ctrl + Esc” and “Sputnik Sweetheart,” the promising quartet earned their chunk of streaming listenership on cities such as Taipei, Manila, and Hong Kong—a proof that their brand of music sees no boundaries, and resonates on a universal level.

Formed by vocalist/guitarist Diana “Moose” Mapa, guitarist Ann Marie Pillado, bassist Martin Garces, and drummer Miguel Gabriel San Miguel, Project Orange returns with a distinctly laid-back affair that chronicles the growing pains of young love and the unsteady circumstances that define it.

Their new single “Play Pretend” captivates listeners with their sophisticated blend of bedroom pop and indie rock. The four-piece outfit employs a lush and dream-like palette in terms of musical approach, fully embracing a deceptively simple arrangement that wouldn’t feel out of place side by side with the breezy pop sensibilities of Clairo and Boy Pablo. 

“Too many people get caught up with the immense amount of music elements these days and I try to avoid that,” lead vocalist Diana Mapa shares in a statement. “The additional portions like the distorted guitar and synths were suggested by the producers in the studio and it added a stunning perspective to the song.”

Steeped in melancholic pulse, “Play Pretend” provides glimpses of a promising music act informed by the sound of its time, but never allowing trends to envelope the finality and packaging. It’s all heart, less feels: the more you immerse to the song’s intimate revelations, the closer it hits home.  

Lyrically, “Play Pretend” demands to be felt. With its wandering verses, a bridge that makes you feel like you're at a wit's end, and a chorus that hits you with a sanguine yet somber tune, the song represents built up feelings that will never see the light of the day. Mapa shares, “It’s like you’re running out of time, but at the same time you aren’t. And that distorts what you think of love, whether it be imaginary or reality.”

“Play Pretend” is the third official single of indie pop collective Project Orange under Lilystar Records. Stream their new track here.

Source: Nyou

155 for JRRMMC

I dispatched 155 earsavers to the nurses of Jose R. Reyes Memorial Medical Center (JRRMMC). It was a real joy to make these for this hospital. My first donation to JRRMMC was back in April. Now, I am donating to the nurses to support their continuing fight against Covid-19.

It is a joy to make these earsavers for our frontliners. Let us continue to support them and follow health guidelines to flatten the curve. God bless us all!

Bruce Springsteen to release new rock album, Letter To You

The rock legend’s upcoming album features E Street Band 

Bruce Springsteen is slated to drop his highly anticipated studio album with E Street Band, Letter To You on October 23, 2020 (Friday) via Columbia Records. 

A rock album fueled by the band's heart-stopping, house-rocking signature sound, the 12-track Letter To You is Springsteen's 20th studio album, and was recorded at his home studio in New Jersey.“I love the emotional nature of Letter To You,” says Springsteen. “And I love the sound of the E Street Band playing completely live in the studio, in a way we’ve never done before, and with no overdubs. We made the album in only five days, and it turned out to be one of the greatest recording experiences I’ve ever had.”Letter to You includes nine recently written Springsteen songs, as well as new recordings of three of his legendary, but previously unreleased compositions from the 1970s:“Janey Needs a Shooter,” “If I Was the Priest,” and “Song for Orphans.” 

Springsteen is joined on Letter To You by Roy Bittan, Nils Lofgren, Patti Scialfa, Garry Tallent, Stevie Van Zandt, Max Weinberg, Charlie Giordano and Jake Clemons. The album was produced by Ron Aniello with Bruce Springsteen, mixed by Bob Clearmountain and mastered by Bob Ludwig. Letter To You is Springsteen's first time performing with the E Street Band since The River 2016 tour, which was named the year's top global tour by both Billboard and Pollstar.Bruce Springsteen’s recording career spans over 40 years, beginning with 1973's ‘Greetings from Asbury Park, NJ’ (Columbia Records). He has garnered 20 Grammys, won an Oscar and a Tony, been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, received a Kennedy Center Honor and was MusiCares’ 2013 Person of the Year. Springsteen’s memoir ‘Born to Run’ (Simon & Schuster) and its companion album ‘Chapter and Verse’ were released in September 2016, and he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in November 2016. His historic 236-show run of ‘Springsteen on Broadway’ at Jujamcyn’s Walter Kerr Theatre from October 2017 to December 2018 also yielded an accompanying soundtrack album and Netflix special. In 2019, Springsteen released 'Western Stars,' his first studio album in five years, and together with longtime collaborator Thom Zimny he co-directed ‘Western Stars,’ a feature film released through Warner Bros.Tracklist:

1. One Minute You’re Here2. Letter To You3. Burnin’ Train4. Janey Needs A Shooter5. Last Man Standing6. The Power Of Prayer7. House Of A Thousand Guitars8. Rainmaker9. If I Was The Priest10. Ghosts11. Song For Orphans12. I’ll See You In My Dreams

Watch the video for the album's title track here: brucespringsteen.lnk.to/LTYSPS/youtube

Pre-order Letter To You here: brucespringsteen.lnk.to/LTY-POPS

Source: Nyou

Orange & Lemons wax poetic on new indie pop single “You Bring Out My Best”

Orange & Lemons have proven time and again, that they’re capable of writing infinitely hummable, indie-pop classics that maintain a distinct sensibility and effortlessness amidst shifting trends. 

Their new single, “You Bring Out My Best” is among their most delightful work to date: a song that finds Clem waxing poetic on the intimate moments that he once shared with a fictional ex-lover. 

According to Orange & Lemons’ chief songwriter and producer, Clem Castro, the song was intended as a pitch for a commercial project, but the band decided to release it as a stand-alone single. “We just love how the song turned out,” Clem reveals in a statement. “It’s the first time we sat down together working on a concept material, with no relevant inspiration for it. Just a play with words and melodic lines.”

The production packs a punch in a way that is seamlessly understated but compelling—never overdoing the process to gain attention or impress music fans. But it’s the songwriting that remains front and center to this massive release, a distinct mold whose appeal transcends generations of any kind. 

“You Bring Out My Best” was written, arranged, and demo-recorded last February 2020 at O&L’s drummer studio from 4pm to 3am. The members of the band had to maximize their time together because they live far from one another, with Clem already having an approximate idea of a verse and chorus linesfor the session. After jamming with the band, they brainstormed on adding sections and parts to complete the demo. “The resulting production has that trademark O&L sound, and much, much more because of the contribution of our keyboard player, who after more than a year of being an official member has immersed himself in indie-pop stylings,” the Orange & Lemons frontman adds.Four months after the demo was shelved, Orange & Lemonsfinally braved the studio to resume recording of their new single “You Bring Out My Best.”   Armed with disinfectants and face masks, the award-winning band carefully observed health and safety protocols to finish the material. Clem says, “We had to remove our shoes when tracking, and only one person is allowed at a time to record. The rest had to wait outside at the receiving area of Sonic State Audio in Mandaluyong City.”

“You Bring Out My Best” is out today, September 11, 2020 (Friday), on all digital platforms worldwide via LilystarsRecords. 

Source: Nyou

Knitted Faith

Before my dad passed away last year, he asked me to knit or crochet a brown blanket for him. I always thought of his wish even if it has been more than a year since his passing. To commemorate his wish, I knitted myself a brown scarf using DMC Knitty Pop from Dreams Yarnshoppe.

I started knitting this during the start of the Enhanced Community Quarantine (ECQ) last March. I only finished it this week as I prioritized crocheting earsavers for medical frontliners. I only had time to continue knitting this scarf after finishing batches for each hospital. It became my reward for completing batches, and it was something that I really looked forward to.

I look forward to using this scarf when I am already allowed to explore the city again. I will probably take this to the cinema, or to a date without face masks on. I look forward to the day when this scarf can keep me warm when I am already allowed to freely go out again.

Pandemic Shawl

I just finished crocheting this shawl using Crocheted by Carisse yarn. I used a 4mm Pony Soft Ergonomic hook from Oh My Yarn. I used a granny shawl pattern from YouTube, and just worked it from there.

I actually started making this last April, during the beginning of the lockdown. However, I had to make earsavers for medical frontliners, so this shawl took a backseat. But that didn’t mean that I took it for granted, as this shawl balanced out the pressures of earsaver deadlines.

It became an outlet for me, and I thoroughly enjoyed crocheting it. It gives me hope to finish this shawl, that I can still fulfill deadlines and focus on tasks at hand. I know that crochet may just be a hobby for some, but for me, it’s a way to adjust to life’s challenges. I am thankful that I have this passion, and I hope that you can also find something that helps you live life better.