Alt-R&B trio brb. releases performance video of hit single “saint”

Internationally acclaimed R&B trio, brb. has finally dropped the performance video of their latest single “saint” at 11pm on July 2, 2021 (Friday). 

This marks the first time that brb. is putting out a live performance showcase for one of their new releases. 

“Planning this performance was a fun challenge for us,” brb.’s very own Marc Lian shares in a statement. “This pandemic was a real reset for us and we hope that our fans will like this new direction that we are taking.”

Auzaie Zie reveals that he had a great time being in the same room together with brb., and performing “saint” live with the gang for the very first time. “It's nothing close to the energy being on a real stage but it was really fun nonetheless. I can't wait to perform this song live for everyone to hear.”

"saint" is the lead track of their sophomore EP, fleur, which chronicles a change in direction for the R&B’s group in terms of sound and vibe. Fans can look forward to more experimentation and some incredible collaborations they have lined up with amazing artists from all over Asia in the coming months

Source: Nyou

Calico Flowers Scarf

I just finished crocheting the Calico Flowers Scarf. I followed this free pattern from Yarnspirations. I used a 6mm hook and rainbow cotton yarn from Shopee.

The pattern is intermediate-level, but I think it can be doable even for advanced crocheters. Just be sure to count stitches and ensure that the gauge is followed.

I hope that this inspires you to make something during this pandemic. Creating beautiful things is uplifting and fulfilling. Do give it a try!

Iced Coffee Trip

I was craving for some me time earlier this week, so I headed to Cinema ‘76 Cafe for an afternoon by myself. I ordered their delicious iced latte and tried their oatmeal cookie. It was a winning combo that I will definitely order again!

I love indie cafes like this one because they have soul. I feel more aligned with myself after some coffee and a pastry. It is a privilege to enjoy a few hours by myself during the pandemic. I look forward to having coffee again next week in order to regroup and reflect on my life and plans.

Auric and Ice

I am happy with my latest jewelry purchase. I got Auric and Ice’s crescent flatback for my conch and I am really impressed with the quality, craftsmanship, and sparkle! They used G+ colored diamonds for this piece, and it is internally-threaded. It is the perfect piece for downsizing my conch piercing.

For genuine gold and diamond local piercing jewelry, follow Auric and Ice on Instagram! This is not a sponsored post. I am simply a satisfied customer.

Alex Bruce comes swinging with unapologetic banger “Fake Friends”

After gaining crossover success with her previous single “Yakap,” a charming ode to young romance in hip-hop/R&B form, Alex Bruce is putting her feminine swaggeryet again on display with the release of her new track “Fake Friends.”

Propelled by spirited delivery and eclectic production, the prolific rapper’s supremely fun single takes a swipe at former friends who take more than what they give. According to Alex Bruce, the song pokes fun at the unnecessary drama caused by backstabbing pals, expressing her sentiments on how she refuses to be part of its narrative.  “Fake friends are everywhere, but I decided to focus more on pressing matters,” Bruce recounts. “This song is a return to form: a banger that allows me to speak my mind and be honest about what I feel.”

The versatile young rapper comes swinging with another standout that recalls her more unapologetic jams, with its vibe decidedly upbeat and packed with energy, and Bruce’s rapping conditioned for a showstopping performance that exceeds expectations without even appearing like she’s trying. The catchy tune is produced by frequent collaborator Cursebox and Brian Lotho, and co-written by Alex Bruce with her dad.

“This song is four months in the making,” says Alex Bruce. “I wrote the verses last year during the first lockdown, and I’m grateful that Sony was kind enough to give this tune a chance to be released in public. I’m really proud of the production and the unexpected transitions within the song. It’s quite a game-changer, musically speaking.”

The song’s cover art, which includes Bruce wearing venomous snakes on her head as part of a colorful collage, was designed by renowned artist War Espejo who has worked with the likes of Lourd de Veyra and Spot.ph.

The “Fake Friends” official release also comes with a performance video set to premiere on Alex Bruce’s YouTube channel at 7pm on June 30, 2021. Shot at the All Stars Dance Studio South, the endearing clip features Alex Bruce on vocals, with fellow Nike endorser and Philippine All Stars’ very own AC Lalata as the choreographer, and Titus Cee as video director.

Alex Bruce’s “Fake Friends” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music Philippines.

Source: Sony Music Philippines

Bow Ring

I recently bought an 18k gold bow ring for myself from Maria’s Gold Iloilo. I have always liked ribbons, but I was told that I was not girly enough to wear them. Now that I am 34 years old, I have realized that my style can be a mix of girly and fierce. In this case, my bow ring ties together my feminine and edgy styles.

I think that it is okay to be both feminine and sporty. I also have an edgy side, which is evident in my piercings and love for black. What matters most is that I carry myself with elegance and dignity no matter what my outfit of the day is. Confidence is timeless.

Quielle Knot Ring

My partner recently gave me a Quielle Knot Ring when he visited our home for the first time. He met my mom and gave her some pastries. It was a good day and I will forever cherish this ring to remind me of our relationship.

Guys, if you want to give a present to your special someone, observe what she usually buys and where she buys them from. I am a longtime Quielle customer so this gift makes me feel special. I highly recommend this item as it is locally-made using high quality stainless steel.

Have a good week ahead, everyone!

For Goodness Cake: The Story of Sweet Resilience As Told By Conti’s Employees

Cake has always been a signature of Filipino celebrations—a symbol of gratitude for the life of others. It serves as a gift and a reminder that one’s existence is special; cake is a universal item of love and appreciation.

 When the pandemic struck, many of us were restricted within our homes, and getting together is not as easy as before. But distance did not stop us from celebrating our loved ones through a round cake at the center of the dining table.

Thanks to the “pasabuy” effort that is born from the spirit of bayanihan and resiliency among Filipinos, buying did not have to be risky and difficult. Not only does it support small-time businesses, it also opened an earning opportunity for people who lost their jobs amidst the crisis.  

Indeed, many businesses were affected by the quarantine. Conti’s is no different. The popular Bakeshop & Restaurant had to reassess the situation to gain back their footing. This was when they found out about the pasabuy diskarte that people started employing.

The idea inspired Conti’s to continue bringing delight to Filipinos. They wanted to do something for the growing community of pasabuyers who have been making a living out of doing all these shared deliveries. 

 That is how Conti’s brought the Delight Shoppers Program to a start. By training pasabuyers in the proper handling and proper delivery of their cake products, they not only opened a working opportunity for many Filipinos, but they also found a solution on how to reach more far-flung areas that they weren’t able to reach before.

The pasabuyers, now called the Delight Shoppers, continue to provide innovative service and delight to more Filipinos.

“This is a program we are truly proud of, it is a testament to Conti’s commitment to helping the community. We are here really to delight customers, and be able to share those memorable experiences with everyone,” quips Joey Reyes, President and CEO of Conti’s Bakeshop and Restaurant.

To date, Conti’s Delight shoppers number to about 75, and because of them, the cake goodness of Conti’s now reach the areas of Tacloban, La Union, and Quezon. 

Conti’s released a video about the campaign’s beginnings, documenting the human stories behind the wonderful initiative.

Watch the video here: https://www.facebook.com/watch/?v=971349370299041

Follow Conti’s Bakeshop for more updates:

Facebook | Instagram | Official Website

Source: Nyou

SB19 and Ben&Ben make history with generation-defining version of “MAPA”

SB19 and Ben&Ben, two of the biggest Philippine acts, are making history again with a re-recording of the former’s smash single “MAPA” under Sony Music.

In a year marked by self-imposed isolation and forced withdrawal from the outside world, the inspirational ballad brims with positive light as it honors every loving and hardworking parent out there, who made our journey toward life bearable, and filled with important lessons.

According to Roslyn Pineda, Sony Music’s General Manager, Philippines and Vice President, Business Development, Asia, there was clamor from the general public for #SBen19 since last year.

Mutual love and respect

“How did it happen? Basically, SB19 had an idea — a band version of MAPA,” Pineda discloses. “And Ben&Ben said yes in a heartbeat, which perhaps shouldn’t have come as a surprise given their ‘Ma, may ___ na kami’ captions on social media that make their devotion to their parents public knowledge. As their label, it was wonderful for us to see SB19 and Ben&Ben get along so well.  And when they performed together on one stage, I don’t think anyone could deny—it was pure magic!”

SB19 shares Pineda’s enthusiasm, adding that when they were still trainees, the internationally recognized boyband had been dreaming of what it would be like working with the nine-piece collective. “It was really nice because while working, we were able to share stories and experiences that brought us closer. Also, during the shoot of our video, we were encouraging each other to gain confidence and just enjoy the performance.”

Both SB19 and Ben&Ben made a surprising announcement about the release of the new version of “MAPA” last June 18, which sent #SB19BenAndBen and #SBEN19MAPA to the top of the Twitter trending topics at #1 and #2 respectively.

Delicate arrangements and intricate details

Packed with jazzy, orchestral details, inviting harmonies, and expansive arrangements, the new version of “MAPA” frames its extraordinary paean of parental love with commitment to emotional sincerity and nuanced storytelling. SB19 was gracious enough to give Ben&Ben(whose debut album, Limasawa Street is now certified-triple platinum) permission to rearrange the material, ensuring that it stays faithful to the creative vision of both groups, collaboratively and individually. 

According to Ben&Ben, “We were 100% involved with the process. They gave us free liberty to arrange the song, only giving us additional comments to help make some parts flow better. Pablo (SB19) and Pat were directly coordinating and constantly giving updates, and the suggestions he gave greatly helped us during the final recording sessions.”

Ben&Ben revealed that all of the band members were creatively responsible for their individual parts, but the entire arrangement was mainly conceptualized and spearheaded by Pat and Poch. “They’re two of the most technically proficient in the band when it comes to arranging intricate sections, and they wanted to add that to support the powerful message of the original song. Arrangement-wise, we wanted to make it distinct from the original, adding fun rhythms and grand sections. We felt that doing this added weight, and served to support the powerful vocal performance of both acts.”

The instrumentation takes a huge artistic leap by updatingthe original with layers of sonic ambition and introspection, and as a result, rebuilding the sound from the ground up, while creating magic that transcends beyond the material. “We want people to have a different vibe about the song,” SB19’s Pablo points out. “The original version is more mellow, while this version gives it a rich, well-rounded, and a happy feeling - put together in such a way that it makes listeners feel more uplifted when they hear the song.”

Historic first

In what could be a landmark-defining event to promote the team-up, SB19 and Ben&Ben recently shot a performance video of the song at the historic Manila Metropolitan Theatre.

Pineda takes immense pride in this feat. “The Manila Metropolitan Theater is a revered national treasure,” the record label executive shares. “Apparently, it’s the only existing art deco building of its size and integrity in Asia. So to have SB19 and Ben&Ben be the first artists to grace this iconic venue after 6 years of restoration is nothing short of a groundbreaking cultural moment”.

The performance video will officially drop on June 27, 2021 at 7pm on SB19’s Official YouTube account.

SB19 and Ben&Ben’s “MAPA” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide via Sony Music.

Source: Sony Music Philippines

A Mindful Exercise

Today, I was assigned to perform A Mindful Exercise on my BDJ Spark Your Magic Workbook.

Here was the assignment:

”Exercise is defined as a process carried out with effort in order to achieve a specific purpose of sustaining or improving health. There are no shortcuts in exercising. This is work that needs to be done to unleash your magic. List what you can do to improve your physical, mental, and emotional health…and commit to them.”

And here are my answers:

Health

• Drink 8 glasses of water everyday

• Get 6-8 hours of sleep every night

• Workout everyday

Heart

• Read the Bible everyday

• Use a gratitude journal

• Journal everyday

Mind

• Post blog entries at least once a week

• Listen to at least one podcast episode each day

• Crochet everyday

• Talk to my partner more about current events

• Commute once a week

I have been practicing most of these already, so I am off to a good start! It is understandable that there should be room for allowances due to the pandemic. However, I am determined to commit to practicing all of these for my own good!

Here’s to a more mindful way of living!

Love, Susie

I recently had my tennis bracelet repaired by Love, Susie. They are a local brand catering to clients who prefer bespoke jewelry made of reclaimed gems and recycled metals.

I love their work because they replaced the lock without sacrificing the structure and design of the bracelet. The new lock is made of 21K and reinforces my 18K tennis bracelet.

I am so happy to discover this brand. Their diffusion brand of gold-filled local jewelry, Pulseras by Kim, also continues to serve handmade bling. Their owners Kim and Tiffy are the nicest people! They work with your budget and give honest feedback regarding your pieces.

For bespoke jewelry, check out Love, Susie today!

Sehana Bustier Top

I just finished crocheting this Sehana Bustier Top. The pattern is a free YouTube tutorial by Filipina crochet designer Aly Gene. I used a 4.00mm hook and rust yarn from Shopee.

I enjoyed crafting this project as the pattern taught me new stitch techniques such as the i-cord and picot stitch. I also learned how to make a bustier, and I was amazed at how the end product fit me like a glove.

I hope that you also create something special during this quarantine period!

Doja Cat exceeds expectations with legacy-turning pop album, Planet Her

Global superstar Doja Cat has finally released her highly anticipated new album Planet Her via Kemosabe/RCA Records/Sony Music. Critics are already raving about Planet Her, with Vulture saying “Like a runway show where every look clicks, Planet Her makes a case for Doja as our new ice-cool pop-queen supreme” and Stereogum simply stating “The new album slaps, everybody.” 

Alongside the album release comes the highly anticipated video for “You Right,” a collaboration with multi-platinum R&B superstar The Weeknd. The video was shot earlier this month and was directed by Quentin Deronzier. 

Earlier this month Doja Cat dropped the showstopping futuristic video for her track “Need To Know.” The lead single off Planet Her, “Kiss Me More” ft. SZA, continues to dominate the charts: it was just certified Platinum by the RIAA, hit #1 at Rhythm radio and it currently sits at #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 and has over 678 million streams worldwide. 

Last month, Doja Cat along with SZA teamed up for the first performance of “Kiss Me More” on the Billboard Music Awards. Additionally, Doja Cat took home the BBMA for Top R&B Female Artist that night. Doja Cat also performed on the iHeart Radio Music Awards where she won the award for Best New Pop Artist.  

Planet Her Track List:

1. Woman

2. Naked

3. Payday Feat. Young Thug

4. Get Into It (Yuh)

5. Need To Know

6. I Don’t Do Drugs Feat. Ariana Grande

7. Love To Dream

8. You Right - Doja Cat & The Weeknd

9. Been Like This

10. Options Feat. JID

11. Ain’t Shit

12. Imagine

13. Alone

14. Kiss Me More Feat. SZA

To Buy/Stream/Watch “You Right”:

https://smarturl.it/xYouRight 

Get Planet Her:

https://smarturl.it/xPlanetHer 

Follow Doja Cat at:

Instagram | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube 

Follow The Weeknd at:

Instagram | Twitter

 Doja Cat’s Planet Her is out now on all digital platforms worldwide via Kemosabe/RCA Records/Sony Music.

Source: Sony Music Philippines

On Oatmeal and Grief

My father passed away in May 2019, but the process of grieving is still ongoing. There are days when grief is more pronounced, and I choose to deal with it through prayer and wearing my father’s old watch. And then there are the small moments that make me miss my dad a lot. One of those is oatmeal.

My dad liked oatmeal so much that he had to have it every single day. It was difficult for me to have oatmeal since his passing, but then I realized that I should learn how to eat this breakfast staple again. And so, after more than two years since his passing I finally ate oatmeal again. It was from a fresh canister containing a new pack of instant oats.

It was delicious!

Losing our loved ones can greatly impact us in both the small and big moments in life. It is up to us to grieve with dignity and to be kind to ourselves in the process. I hope that my oatmeal anecdote will remind everyone that grief never goes away, and it is an invitation to honor the dead by living a meaningful life.

Israeli Ambassador Ends Term with Significant Contributions in Israel-PH Relations

Ambassador Rafael Harpaz started his service in August 2018 as the Israeli Ambassador to the Philippines. His first mission as the official escort of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during his historic visit to Israel in the same year brought significant developments in the fields of cooperation including economy, agriculture, tourism, among others.

President Duterte confers the Order of Sikatuna with the rank of Datu (Grand Cross) Silver Distinction

on outgoing Ambassador of Israel to the PH - TOTO LOZANO PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

During the farewell meeting on June 16, 2021, President Duterte particularly noted Ambassador Harpaz’s key role in ensuring humane and orderly treatment of the overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Israel and the implementation of bilateral agreements on the temporary employment of Filipino home-based caregivers and workers in the hotel sector. The president also lauded the outgoing ambassador’s notable accomplishments in the strengthened relations between Israel and the Philippines in the areas of defense, business and innovation, agriculture, and labor migration.

“I’m ending my term as the Israeli ambassador in this beautiful country with the bilateral relations between Israel and the Philippines stronger,” outgoing Ambassador Rafael Harpaz said.

Israel’s Honorary Consulate in Mindanao based in Davao City, Israel’s Defense Attaché office, and Israel’s Economic and Commercial Mission office were opened respectively this year amidst the pandemic. “The embassy is expanding, which is an indication of the demand for cooperation and established relations between our countries,” Ambassador Harpaz explained.

Ambassador Harpaz played a key role in building connections between government organizations, businesses and chambers, religious organizations, non-profit organizations, and many more. This paved more opportunities for Israel to see the incentives of the Philippines, and likewise for the Philippines to be more aware of what Israel can offer.

In the middle of the pandemic, Ambassador Harpaz spearheaded Israel’s donation of medical supplies, testing kits, and educational equipment to help the Philippines combat COVID-19. A medical team from Israel also arrived in the Philippines to share lessons and best practices in the vaccination program and deployment.

“Ambassador Rafael Harpaz’s term was very fruitful. On behalf of the Embassy of Israel in the Philippines, we would like to thank him and wish him all the best in his future endeavors,” Mr. Nir Balzam, Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the embassy expressed.

Outgoing Ambassador of Israel to the Philippines H.E. Rafael Harpaz was conferred with the Order of Sikatuna, Rank of Datu (Grand Cross), Silver Distinction, by President Rodrigo Roa Duterte during his farewell call in Malacanang. The Order of Sikatuna was awarded for his significant contributions to the enhancement of PH-Israel relations.

Source: Embassy of The State of Israel, Manila

5 Things that I’m Good At

Today, I picked this card for my BDJ Dare To Be Creative deck:

Make a list of 5 things that you’re really good at

”What do you do and give so effortlessly? Think of what other people ask you help for.”

Here are the 5 things that I’m really good at:

1. I am good at writing

2. I am good at playing the flute by ear

3. I am good at taking photographs

4. I am good at crochet

5. I excel at cardio, especially Zumba

And here are ten more things that I’m really good at:

1. I am good at identifying local businesses to support and promote

2. I am a good and fair product tester

3. I am a good singer

4. I am a good foodie in the sense that I am effective in sharing restaurants and delicious dishes

5. I am a good and effective brand ambassador

6. I am good in public speaking

7. I am good in building and following routine

8. I am good in giving gifts to people I know well

9. I am a talented commuter!

10. I am good at walking

Bonus: People ask me to pray for them, so that makes me a good intercessor!

I can do all these, and more!

The Ransom Collective’s Leah Halili teases release of first solo single “Fourth of July”

Indie-folk singer-songwriter Leah Halili is set to premiere her first solo single “Fourth Of July.”

Brimming with delicate arrangements and lush vocals, “Fourth of July” is her first official release outside of The Ransom Collective, which she is still a part of.

According to Halili, the song is about “that warm, fuzzy feeling that you get after meeting the person you like. These moments evoke the joy and happiness this special day brings to a lot of people on the other side of the world.”

Following the official announcement through a teaser video, Leah Halili has been giving a sneak peek into the behind-the-scenes details of her upcoming solo release, which includes home studio sessions and recording previews of her new track.

About Leah Halili

Leah Halili makes confessional folk-pop songs that memorialize small, intimate details and resonant experiences with a stripped-down direction. The 27-year-old singer-songwriter is currently working on an upcoming EP to be independently released soon, with “Fourth Of July” as its first single.

With music influences that range from Bon Iver to Lucy Rose, Leah Halili challenges herself to find new dimensions in writing heartfelt songs about love, the lack of it, and its fugitive presence to most of us. 

Leah is also the bassist and vocalist of acclaimed six-piece band, The Ransom Collective.

Source: Nyou

Cinema ‘76 Cafe

I finally got to visit Cinema ‘76 Cafe at Anonas after weeks of stalking their Instagram page. Since I love TBA Studios films, particularly Dito at Doon, I made sure to schedule a visit to this pretty cafe.

I was destined to sit right next to the Dito at Doon poster! What I love about this cafe is that they are pandemic-friendly. There are alcohol bottles on every table. The whole place is al fresco, yet there are several ventilators to keep patrons cool and fresh. Their iced latte and mango cake were both delicious and affordable. Best of all, the ambience is cozy and photogenic.

If you like movies, coffee, cake, and chic interiors, be sure to visit Cinema ‘76 Cafe! You won’t regret it. It is definitely worth the commute!

One Month Of Journaling

Today marks the first month of my daily journaling habit. This is my first daily journaling experience with a paper notebook and an actual pen. I must say that physical, tangible journaling has been helpful in the following ways:

1. I am able to share my stress management routine.

2. I am able to process anger.

3. I am able to break down what grief means to me and how it affects me.

4. I am able to plan the things that I still want to be better at for the rest of 2021.

5. I am able to share my favorite songs.

6. I am able to share my desk essentials and how they help me.
   

…and many more! I did not expect journaling to be a roadmap during the pandemic. It has become my guide to becoming a better person. I have built a habit that invites me to be kinder to myself. As a result, I am able to pass on this kindness to other people.

Here’s to more months of journaling!

Recalibrate

Today’s theme on my BDJ Spark Your Magic workbook is Recalibrate.

”There are so many things that are out of our hands right now, but focusing on the things you can control, no matter how small, can reassure you and inspire you to take action.”

Here are the categories that map out my life at the moment:

What’s not working in my life:

• Job hunting during the pandemic has been unsuccessful so far because recruiters say that I am overqualified.

• Living within my means has been doable, but challenging.

• Controlling my temper has been a slow work in progress.

How if would look like if they were:

• I would have a job that I am qualified and appropriately paid for.

• I can have more savings if I continue to live within my means.

• Controlling my temper has led to more harmonious relationships with the people around me.

What I can do to bridge the gap:

• I can continue blogging and maintaining my Human Nature Online Store.

• I can plan my expenses ahead of time.

• I have been controlling my temper through daily journaling. I will carry on with this practice as it has been helping me a lot.

I am really grateful that I am more self-aware thanks to journaling. My partner has also been very supportive and has been patiently listening to me whenever I share my struggles and plans to improve. I am fortunate to have a support system that allows me to work on myself without judgement during the pandemic.

I am constantly improving myself. I know that this does not happen overnight. The goal is to attain progress, not perfection. The key to achieving positive change is to work on myself, one day at a time.

I have many blessings in my life. I have my blog, my Human Nature Online Store (please support!), and a wonderful life. I can move forward and improve because I believe that I have everything I need to have everything I want!