don't be a coconut

May 22

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 22 May 2013 08:00:00 +0000

Padang Astaka, PJ, Urbanscapes 2011.

. . . .

I always make plans, but on the day itself, I always forget what it was I wanted to say. Ah well, till next time then.

May 15

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 15 May 2013 09:28:00 +0000

Putrajaya Lake, July 2011.
. . . .

I'm excited to plan for some trips that I have in store for this year. Can't say for sure whether everything will go as smoothly as planned. But it's good to remain optimistic I believe.

Hope you're enjoying the rest of the working week.

May 8

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 08 May 2013 10:12:00 +0000

Photos of my friend Nazwa, taken at Mines Wellness Hotel, July 2011

. . . .

Been listening to a lot of podcasts lately, so I have no music to offer.

This Past Week

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 01 May 2013 10:58:00 +0000

Above is a photo of my friend Nazwa, taken at Mines Wellness Hotel, July 2011.
. . . .

This past week has been quite the roller coaster ride. For starters, never in my wildest dream did I ever imagine, that I would be speaking in person with the lead singer of my most adored bands of all times. Radio Dept's music feels like home to me. It's what I listen to when I want to feel like myself.

Who would've thought the same people behind the band who churns out music that feels so dreamy, and distant with a coolly-detached delivery, can be so open and accessible, and approachable, and warm, and just all-round lovely? I don't know about you, but I find that so fascinating. It still feels so surreal to me; I smile just thinking of it.

So now I'm rummaging through their whole back-catalog of songs, trying to relive it, and trying to piece these two experiences together. Of course naturally, I listen to their songs in a completely different light now. I also obsess about the band in a completely different way now. Try as I might, I just can't find fault in their music.

+ The Radio Dept. - The New Improved Hypocrisy

April 24

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 24 Apr 2013 08:52:00 +0000

. . . .

Two new albums I've been having on constant repeat lately:

+ Yeah Yeah Yeahs Mosquitos

+ Phoenix Bankrupt

Have a great remainder of the week!

April 17

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 17 Apr 2013 00:44:00 +0000

Italiannies, The Curve.
. . . .

I haven't been able to keep track of time lately, sometimes I wake up in the middle of the night, not knowing what day it is, and thinking, "Oh my god, am I late for work?"

It's still taking up some time to getting use to the new office. We all silently complain and whine and rant under our breaths despite how mature other people think we may seem.

Perhaps ranting silently under our breaths is in a fact a sign of maturity?

On a more positive note though, there is this song:

+ Poolside - Harvest Moon

I Don't Recall

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 10 Apr 2013 01:13:00 +0000

Photos of my friend Nazwa taken at my home.
. . . . . . . . .

It has been such a whirlwind at work lately. Due to the events that have taken place, we're forced out of our natural work-habitat and thrust into a completely "different" work environment. Yeah, I am putting this lightly and I am also treading on a dangerous ground here. But that said, people expect us to pull through and make do, and though torturous it may be, we just pull through and make do. Gosh, to think I have to live through it for 6-8 weeks. Thank god there are songs like this, that helps me cope.

+ Lavender Diamond - I Don't Recall

MGMT

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 03 Apr 2013 03:13:00 +0000

March 2011, Mont Kiara Indoor Arena
. . . . . . . . .

A set of blurry photos taken at an MGMT concert in 2011.

I am really psyched for Radio Dept at the end of this month and in light of that, I am slowly rekindling my love for the band's music. On the other hand, as far as 'obsessive repeated listening' goes, I have this song to quench my thirst.

+ Crystal Castles - Not In Love (Feat. Robert Smith)

Love how it's unabashedly 80s. Have a good week everyone.

27 March

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 27 Mar 2013 03:12:00 +0000

. . . . . .

A day of scone-having at Delicous. It was heavenly.

A few things I've been enjoying lately:
+ AlunaGeorge's I Wanna Be Like You (Jungle Book Cover @ Maida Vale)
+ The Spilled Milk podcast by Matthew Amster-Burton and Molly Wizenberg

Call It Fate, Call It Karma

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 20 Mar 2013 03:10:00 +0000

. . . . . . . . . . . .

So what do I think about the 5th Strokes record? Let me just be honest, this blog was essentially a music blog (and I do plan to retain it that way as much as possible). The band that first propelled me into these music blog forays was in fact the Strokes (surprise, surprise). But since then, we grew apart, the band went to pursue their solo careers, I went on to sample even more music. Before we even knew it, we all grew older and our music taste started to evolve, and we began to be musically inclined to different things.

And that is exactly how I like to think the band has evolved. Although not in a way I would want them to, the change was still for the better, because it was a sign of progress. It's true when they say that the Strokes sounds their worst when they try too hard to be the Strokes, like in 'All the Time'. For one thing, I don't hate the song, but it reminded the early Strokes' fans too much of how the band once was, how far the band has come, and how they will never be the band we once knew them to be. It was painful in a way, to be reminded of the glory days from Is This It or Room on Fire. The most painful thing though, that as hard as 'All the Time' tries to give a throwback to the past, it still lacked character, charisma, an overall appeal.

I'm not saying I hate this record, (though I am rambling here and going way off on a tangent, but do bear with me, the Strokes is still one of those bands that I get stupidly excited for), I do favour the softer songs off this record, like '80s Comedown Machine', 'Chances', and 'Call It Fate, Call It Karma'. The album in its entirety is a definite grower with tunes that catches me completely by surprise. If this album is any indication to the music that they'll be churning out in the future (either solo or as a group, because either way it's fine with me), then I couldn't be more highly excited for it.

If you still haven't, do take some time to stream the album in its entirety here:
+ The Strokes Comedown Machine
And take a listen to my favourite song from the album here:
+ Call It Fate, Call It Karma

You Can Call Me Nancy

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Mon, 11 Feb 2013 03:08:00 +0000

Maybe this blog isn't serving its previous purpose anymore, maybe it's turning into a photography blog just as I feared. But that said, it might not be such a bad thing after all. Some days I feel like posting photos and just leave it at that. Some days I fear that if I keep that up, I might run out of photos and have nothing left to post. Some days I feel uninspired and start to think how my photos lack some ummphh (which is partially if not completely true). Nevertheless, let it be said that hopefully this space could be the stepping stone to greater possibilities. And that hopefully, by mastering the techniques it could lead me to someplace where I could fully practise my true intentions. If you know what I mean.

Lately I've been enjoying:
+ This warm, soothing tune by Father John Misty.
+ The new Ra Ra Riot album, Beta Love.
+ An amazing read, Grace, the memoir by Grace Coddington.

Sent & Received

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Tue, 22 Jan 2013 03:07:00 +0000

. . . . . . . . . . . .

Things sent and received in the mail.

A few things I've enjoyed recently:
+ Yes please do stream the new Yo La Tengo's album, Fade
+ An ode to to the fine art of sushi-making: Jiro Dream of Sushi
+ The podcast show, Radiolab is both soothing and insightful. It is the best thing to put on while I'm working; productivity at it's finest.

I've Got a War in My Mind

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 02 Jan 2013 03:06:00 +0000

Kicking into 2013, I've decided to take one last look back on 2012. Though it was one hell of a ride, it didn't turn out to be a disappointing year musically,either. The first half of the year was where I cultivated my love for the music of Tennis, while the second half, was just filled with aimless wondering and helpless fumbling in the dark. It wasn't till the very last days of 2012, that I finally found refuge in the music of Miss Lana Del Ray.

My love for her music was gradual, a slow process that still continues to grow. But I discovered that the main reason her music resonated with me, was that in my daily struggle of living a life of quiet desperation, her cool, indifferent nonchalance spoke volume. It was both odd and familiar all at once.

» Listen to Ride here.

But that aside, I would also like to share that I will be making a short film soon, and am currently looking for any interested actors to play in the film. To those who are currently residing in Malaysia, can just drop me an email at hello@dontbeacoconut.com. I look forward to hearing from you.

If I See You on the Street You'd Better Run

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Mon, 24 Dec 2012 03:05:00 +0000

The above pictures were taken in this small place called Little White Cafe in Bangi. The place has a really warm and cozy setting, much like eating at someone's home. The food wasn't bad either.

* * *

I've been immersing myself heavily in the tracks from 'year-end lists', and all I can say is, I am completely weary of it. The songs are the same machine generated music and it's beginning to feel worn out. I already know the music that summed up 2012 for me and will be sharing it maybe later next week. But for now, here is a track and consequently an album that only had my conviction the second time around I gave it a listen. I've discovered that Chairlift's Something is an album that needs to be taken with a huge dose of 80s mentality. Once you've got that pat down, the rest as they say, will simply fall into place.

» Listen to Sidewalk Safari here.

See You On a Dark Night

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Fri, 07 Dec 2012 03:02:00 +0000

As people are prepping up towards their year-end lists, I took upon myself to scour around the web to search for the sound of 2012. Though for the most part, I feel like I've gone mine pat down, it feels relevant to see how my choice stacks up with the rest.

During my search quest, I came across this article, that discussed about the music of Grimes' Claire Boucher who "makes truly futuristic — and incredibly emotional — music about growing up with social media." And it got me thinking if there ever was music that could be fittingly described as "post-internet", would the music of Grimes be it?

Here are a few excerpts from the article that I particularly liked:

But why did Grimes’ music and persona enrapture critics, electronic music fans, and teen bloggers alike? Maybe because it felt "new" in a way that has been noticeably lacking in recent years, and that part of that newness came through in the way it acknowledged that the social Internet is here to stay, and it is profoundly changing the way we live. This technology is transforming how art is created and consumed, the way human interaction occurs, and our perception of ourselves as a species.

...The songs off Visions, which Grimes herself has described as "post-Internet," sound like how we connect and experience the world online. There's a webby, networked aura to the echoing, trippy beats and layered vocals. The songs can feel both overwhelming and sparse, human and inhuman, easily distractible and addictive.

In the background, I had the tunes from Grimes as my soundtrack and in that moment, it only felt accurate to perceive the music of Claire Boucher to be THE ode of growing up with social media; the kind of music that can only be crafted after living through all the cacophonies of Internet culture. I love how social media already feels nostalgic as it is happening. I love when people talk about it, they try to inject a human spirit into it and come out feeling melancholic for something not melancholic at all.

I also love how in the video of 'Oblivion', Miss Boucher doesn't seem so otherworldly (like her music) or how she looks just the right amount of quirky and edgy that she doesn't seem unapproachable. If anything, the 'Oblivion' video has made me tenfolds more fall in love with this tune. In fact, doesn't she look like an absolute darling in that video, like a singer Tavi Gevinson. Love, love, love.

» Listen to Oblivion here.

November 2

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Fri, 02 Nov 2012 03:01:00 +0000

A few images to share from long, yesteryear. Most probably from 2010. I have quite a few handful of pictures to edit through. Roughly around 800 to be exact. It's a collection that's continuously growing and hopefully in the next few days (or weeks) you will be seeing a lot of photos from those days.

But I Was Told That You Liked Me

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Tue, 23 Oct 2012 03:00:00 +0000

A recent finding today slapped me hard in my slumber and made me realize; has that much time really flown by? To think how time have passed by without a second's notice makes me nervous and thinking; have I really run out of time? Whilst everything seems to go by in a blur, my life on the other hand remains in a standstill. It might not be a major cause for concern, but I just can't help from worrying.

As always the first step to recovery is acceptance. As I slowly put things into perspective and get my mind back on track, it becomes clear that all will be well.

There isn't much justification that I can offer as to why I seem to be head over heels for Charli XCX's 'Valentine'. All I can say is, this could just be another fine example of an encounter of the right song at the right time. Do enjoy.

» Listen to Valentine here.

Never Count On Longevity

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Sat, 22 Sep 2012 02:59:00 +0000

So I discovered this new word, ennui, which sounded like a spiritual, philosophical term at first glance. But after learning the correct way to pronounce it (ahn-wee) and the direct translation is boredom, I became fixated with it.

The fascination for 'ennui' mostly stemmed from sheer awe by how such a sophisticated word could relate to almost everybody. For instance I get a sense of ennui for most songs I hear these days. But this new track by Yeasayer, called Longevity, is anything but boredom-inducing. The only slight issue I have with this reviving, electronically charged pick-me-up tune of the moment is that it's too short. But as a remedy for working well into the late, late night, this definitely gives you the extra boost that you need.

» Listen to Longevity here.

Paris, I Miss You #4

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 15 Aug 2012 02:56:00 +0000

February 2012, Paris, France
. . . . . .

This is the final installment of the batch of photos taken during my Paris visit. We visited the Lourve and spent the entire half of the day exploring the museum. There was still a lot left to explore owing to the museum's massive structure. On our last day in Paris, we took a walk at Jardin du Plantes and went inside the Botanical Garden greenhouse to shake off the cold. Then later that night we caught a 'Tennis' gig at Point Ephemere.

All in all, it was an unforgettable experience.
A bientôt Paris!

Keep It For Your Own

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Sun, 17 Jun 2012 02:54:00 +0000

Some pretty dramatic shifts has taken place recently, and yet life continues to move forward. Because at the end of the day, the only most logical option is to move on.

Lately, I've been finding it quite hard to listen to new music, or any music for that matter. But one band has been on my mind a lot lately. Especially so after their amazing 'Yours Truly session' came out on Youtube. Pop Etc. is a band that needs no further introduction, and although their current music is quite the departure, I somehow find no trouble at all associating them to the band they once were. I see this 'change' as the most natural way for a band to evolve musically. In fact, more than ever, I am excited to see what Pop Etc. has in store for us in the nearest future. So, keep up the good work, guys!

» Listen to the Yours Truly Session here.
» Listen to the Original version here.

I'm Not Tired Of You Staying Here

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Tue, 15 May 2012 02:52:00 +0000

Currently, I'm in the process of mentally preparing myself for the working week. It's going to be one heck of a long week and I am going to need all the rest I can get. In order to help me achieve this, I've been having this song stuck on repeat in my mind lately. Such a soothing tune to help me ease into the week. Can't help myself from listening to it constantly.

The band Hospitality was already introduced to me through songs such as 'Betty Wang' and 'Eighth Avenue', but after listening to a live session of three of their songs via NPR's Tiny Desk Concert, I was smitten. Smitten by the raspy, cool, clarity of the vocalist, Amber Papini's delivery and the melancholic guitar strums.

For those of you who don't know of this new web-sharing music place called This is my jam, I highly recommend that you check it out, go create an account, and follow me here.

You're welcome.

Hey, Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Fri, 11 May 2012 02:50:00 +0000

The only time these days that I'm ever inspired to write about something is when I'm at work. Which doesn't work in my favour at all because I hardly get to write when I'm at work.

It must be the caffeine effect.

The photo above was taken at one of the cafes in Gard du Nord train station in Paris, and is one of the many outtakes from the 'Paris, I Miss You' series. Lately, I've been searching for music that reminds me of my Paris visit, and I finally found it in Chilly Gonzales' album called 'Solo Piano'. Essentially this is a very good record, and serves its purpose really well in helping to conjure memories and images deep within the recesses of the mind. There are so many good tunes to pick out, but for now, I strongly suggest that you take a listen to this and this.

At the other side of the music spectrum is this record. I still have to go through a lot more sittings to be able to enjoy the new Norah Jones album. The only one track that sticks is this one below. I have so much love for this song, it's ridiculous.

Norah Jones - Travelin' On

Two other albums that I plan on listening to more of, is the new Best Coast and the new Yuna album. If you haven't tried any of those out, then I highly recommend that you do.

The working week is almost coming to an end. (Woohooh!)

For Those Long Summer Nights

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Sat, 05 May 2012 02:48:00 +0000

Two things that I'm currently obsessed about right now, are sleep and coffee in the morning. Because I rarely get the two, and when I do, it feels hella amazing.

But anyway, I'm not sure where exactly this blog is heading; it's almost taken a photography blog turn, although that's never been quite my intention. But considering the number of photos I have in my stash, it felt like the most logical path to take. To turn this into a semi photo/music/personal blog I mean.

But enough about that.

The Bandana Splits - Hold On
There's an app I've been using on my phone lately which has been contributing a lot to some new and good music. One song I've discovered in particular is this very one. I've been keeping it on repeat for at least a few days. If I'm not listening to it on soundcloud, I'm carrying it with me in my thoughts wherever I go. Makes me look forward to the weekend even more.

Hope you enjoy yours too!

Paris, I Miss You #3

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Wed, 02 May 2012 02:21:00 +0000

Day six and the third installment of the Paris visit.

The sun was shining, and the day was bright, and we were on a mission.

We were on our way to the Lourve.

The little that we could see from outside made us excited.

But alas, it was a Tuesday, and as per normal traditions, all museums were closed on Tuesdays.

Till tomorrow, Lourve.

We moved forward and onwards. There was still a lot to see in Paris

Walking along the Seine river..

..to get to the bridge that would take us to the left bank.

Don't take my words for it, but I think the left bank was rightfully named so, due to the fact that it is situated on the left side of the Seine river bank.

Our first stop as soon we got to the left bank was for lunch. We got into the most packed cafe we could find.

Apparently the theory was, the more packed with people the place is, the higher the chances are of getting good food.

I was craving for real proper lunch. I'll just have to make do for this time.

Jardin du Luxemborg.

Despite the sunny weather, the frozen fountain was living proof of how it was freezing cold that day.

My best bet it was either an Indonesian or a Malaysian shop. I never went in to find out.

There was something about the Notre Dame that made you wanted to stare at it with awe.

Back at the center to be on time for the opera that night.

The Opera Palais du Garnier.

The opera was called Le Cerisaie which was all sung in Russian but with French subtitles. Either one did not help. I was sleeping for the most part. *guilty*

Day seven.

Browsing though books at one of the bookstores in Montmarte.

Abesses metro station will be most infamous for the most headache inducing spiral stairway I've ever gone on.

We finally got into the Lourve. More pictures from the Lourve in the 4th and final installment.

Paris, I Miss You #2

noreply@blogger.com (Mieza A.) — Sun, 22 Apr 2012 02:16:00 +0000

Second installment of the Paris visit. On the third day, we readied for our departure for a weekend in London. Before we left, we went for a stroll around the Montmartre neighbourhood.

With luggage in tow, we stopped at a nice Kebab shop (it was right across Moulin Rouge) for lunch.

A very generous portion for myself. Granted, I needed it to prepare myself for the long journey across the chunnel (so to speak).

(My pictures are ruined, I'll say it before you do. At least I know now where to not develop my photos.)

London welcomed our presence and greeted us with it's snowiest weather.

Clink 78 is a hostel for hipsters.

Previously a 200 year old courthouse, Clink 78 has two courtrooms that's been transformed into a computer room and a TV lounge, as well as 7 original prison cells.

Sunday morning in London, and the snow has turned muddy overnight.

The view of the hostel from outside.

The building of St. Pancras train station. Although this building in particular houses the Renaissance St. Pancras hotel, I believe.

On board the 'Original London Bus Tour' and out of the way from the wet, muddy pavement. It was the only way to view London in a day without getting your shoes and socks wet.

An early dinner at Pizza Express.

My very last tube ride before I leave back to Paris. But I'm secretly hoping that isn't true and that I return soon to London someday.

Early Monday Morning, rushing to catch the train that leaves for Paris.

Goodbye London. I'll miss you.

Back in Paris and I felt like I was back at my temporary home again.

We were heading to Sacré Coeur. It was a must-see place since it was so close to the hostel we were staying.

The small road leading us there, felt so beautiful and magical in the most Parisian way, you could imagine.

The majestic view of Sacré Coeur stood high before us, and opposite the cathedral was the most beautiful Paris skyline. Talk about a night to remember.

Day six.

I'll always remember this place as the Trocadero because it was the closest metro station to the area. The weather was sunny and the view of Eiffel tower could not have been more perfect. But as my luck would have it, the film was somewhat damaged due to the airport/train station X-ray scanner. Despite the defect, the photos reminded me of vintage Paris circa the 70s. Natural instagram filters anyone?

More to follow in the coming 3rd installment.