CORD MUSIC MAGAZINE April 2012

CORD

April 2012

APL DE AP: Apl of the Eye also features

Whitney, Mark Hall, Taylor Swift, Vince Borromeo

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

Features

CONTENTS

Apl De Ap - 11 CORD Best 5: Whitney Houston - 15

Parachute 2012 - 21

Taylor Swift - 24

Vince Borromeo - 38 Sections 5 Cord Hits/ 26 Concert Reviews/ 30 Cord Images/ 40 Music+Current/42 Haikus/ 43 Sunog’s Fable/ 44 Best of Blotfree 46 Good Laugh/ 47 Kim & El/ 47 Mr Jeydi’s Witdom/ 48 Jam ‘n Dance/49 Movie Reviews/ 52 Guitar Chord Chart CORD Music Magazine April 2012

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From the Editor People are intrigued with the lives of the rich and famous; and because of this, publications and paparazzi cover the vanities of the popular, in entertainment, in sports, in arts and in politics. So much so that one of Rupert Murdoch’s gossipy newspapers closed down and its staff are being investigated for tapping into the phones of celebrities.

It is sad that oftentimes the bizarre, the scandalous and the embarrassing are given prominent coverage, while the good are buried deep in the inside pages, if not totally ignored.

In this issue of CORD, we feature Whitney Houston and Apl.de.Ap of Black Eyed Peas. Houston died on February 11 at the age of 48, drowning in a hotel bathtub, after partying on the eve of the Grammy awarding ceremonies. She was given an immaculate image by her publicists; but that couldn’t hold true for a long time, as her marriage to bad boy Bobby Brown and her excesses in alcohol and drugs became a staple of the yellow press. Until her demise, the press hounded her to satisfy the appetite of people for gossip.

Apl.de.Ap does not have paparazzi following his steps. Why? Because, he does things that would not interest many people, like visiting the Philippines (the land of his birth) to do charitable acts including donating funds for the construction of schools and helping the victims in the recent disasters in Mindanao. Murdoch’s Sun tabloid wouldn’t be interested.

It will take a total revamp on the mindset of publishers to put the good deeds in the front pages of newspapers. There are quite a number throughout the world doing their share of promoting the good news and the Good News. It’s really up to people of goodwill to espouse inspiring and enlightening publications.

For starters, why not share CORD to all your friends?

MEL B LIBRE Editor in Chief Editor in Chief: Mel Libre Creative Director: Mel Elijan Libre Contributors: Bob Lim, Chichi Abadingo, Ina Esclamado, Kim Libre

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

CORD HITS

DO EVERYTHING Steven Curtis Chapman

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v= d3YLJCOKOzM&feature=related Intro: C G Dm oh oh oh oh...

F (2x)

Verse 1 C G Your picking up toys on the living room floor for the 15th time today Dm F Matching up socks sweeping up lost cheerios that got away C G U put a baby on your hip, color on your lips & head out the door Dm While I may not know you, I bet I know you Prechorus F G Wonder sometimes, does it matter at all?

Am G F Let me remind you, it all matters just as long Chorus C G as you do everything you do to the glory of the One Dm F Who made you, cause He made you, C G To do every little thing that you do to bring a smile Dm C/E CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

to His face tell the story of grace with every move Am G F that you make and every little thing you C G Dm F do oh oh oh oh...

Verse 2 C G Maybe your that guy with the suit and tie Maybe your shirt says your name Dm F You may be hooking up mergers cooking up burgers but at the end of the day C G Little stuff big stuff In between stuff God sees it all the same Dm While I may not know you, I bet I know you Prechorus F G Wonder sometimes, does it matter at all?

Am G F Let me remind you, it all matters just as long Chorus C G As you do everything you do to the glory of the One Dm F Who made you, cause He made you, C G 5

To do every little thing that you do to bring a smile Dm C/E to His face tell the story of grace with every move Am G F that you make and every little thing you

to His face tell the story of grace with every move Am G F that you make and every little thing you

Bridge F G Maybe you're sitting in math class or maybe on a mission in the ConAm G/B G C C/E go or maybe your working at the office singing along with the radio F G Maybe you’re dining at a 5-star or feeding orphans in MyanAm G/B G C C/E mar; anywhere & everywhere that you are Whatever you F G do, it all matters. So do what you Dm G do, Don’t ever forget

YOUR LOVE

Chorus C G To do everything you do to the glory of the One Dm F Who made you, cause He made you, C G To do every little thing that you do to bring a smile Dm C/E to His face tell the story of grace with every move Am G F that you make and every little thing you Chorus C G Everything you do to the glory of the One Dm F Who made you, cause He made you, C G To do every little thing that you do to bring a smile Dm C/E

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Outro C G Dm F C do oh oh oh oh...

Brandon Heath

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Rbg_VdRSYE

Verse1 Bm G D I felt it first when I was younger Bm G D A strange connection to the light Bm G D I tried to satisfy the hunger Bm I never got it right G D I never got it right Verse2 Bm G D So I climbed a mountain and built an altar Bm G D Looked out as far as I could see Bm G D And every day I’m getting older Bm I’m running outta dreams G D I’m running outta dreams

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

Chorus G But Your love D Your love Bm A G The only the thing that matters is Your love D Bm A Your love is all I have to give G D Bm A Your love is enough to light up the darkness G It’s Your love D Your love Bm A G D Bm All I ever needed is Your love Verse3 Bm G D You know the effort I have given Bm G D And you know exactly what it cost Bm G D And though my innocence was taken Bm Not everything is lost G D Not everything is lost Chorus G But Your love D Your love Bm A G The only the thing that matters is Your love D Bm A Your love is all I have to give G D Bm A Your love is enough to light up the darkness G It’s Your love D Your love Bm A G D Bm A All I ever needed is Your love Bridge

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

G You’re the hope in the morning A You’re the light when the night is falling G You’re the song when my heart is singing A it’s Your love G You’re the eyes to the blind man A You’re the feet to the lame men walking G You’re the sound of the people singing A It’s Your love [Chorus]

BLESSINGS Laura Story

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1CSVqHcdhXQ

Am G D C D Bm Am G D C Verse 1 C D Em We pray for blessings C D Bm We pray for peace C D Em D C Comfort for family, protection while we sleep C D Em We pray for healing C D Bm For prosperity

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C D Em D We pray for Your mighty hand to ease our suffering G C D Em All the while, You hear each spoken need Am G D Yet love is way too much to give us lesser things Chorus

G Cause what if your blessings come through raindrops D What if Your healing comes through tears Em D C What if the thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near Am G C Am G D C D Bm What if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise Verse 2 C D Em We pray for wisdom C D Bm Your voice to hear C D Em D C We cry in anger when we cannot feel You near C D Em We doubt your goodness C D Bm We doubt your love C D Em D As if every promise from Your Word is not enough

C D When friends betray us Em D When darkness seems to win we know C D Am D The pain reminds this heart That this is not Am G D C D Bm This is not our home G D Em C D It's not our home [Chorus]

G What if your blessings come through raindrops D What if Your healing comes through tears Em D C What if the thousand sleepless nights are what it takes to know You're near G What if my greatest disappointments D Or the aching of this life Em D C Is the revealing of a greater thirst this world can't satisfy Am G C D C What if trials of this life, the rain, the storms, the hardest nights C C Am G D C D Bm Am G D C D G Are your mercies in disguise

STRONG ENOUGH Matthew West

http://www.godtube.com/watch/?v=FFFFEMNU

G C D Em And all the while, You hear each desperate plea Am G D And long that we'd have faith to believe [CHORUS] Bridge

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CORD Music Magazine  April 2012 

Intro: A D F#m D Verse 1 A You must

D You must think I'm strong F#m D To give me what I'm going through A Well, forgive me D Forgive me if I'm wrong F#m E But this looks like more than I can do Bm(hit and let ring for 4 beats) On my own Chorus A I know I'm not strong enough to be D everything that I'm supposed to be F#m D I give up, I'm not strong enough A Hands of mercy won't you cover me D Lord right now I'm asking you to be F#m E Strong enough, Strong enough A D F#m D For the both of us Verse 2 A Well, maybe D Maybe that's the point F#m D To reach the point of giving up A Cause when I'm finally D Finally at rock bottom F#m E Well, that's when I start looking up Bm(hit and let ring for 4 beats) And reaching out

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

CHORUS A I know I'm not strong enough to be D everything that I'm supposed to be F#m D I give up, I'm not strong enough A Hands of mercy won't you cover me D Lord right now I'm asking you to be F#m E Strong enough, Strong enough Pre Bridge G Cause I'm broken G Down to nothing F#m But I'm still holding on to the one thing D You are God G and you are strong F#m D When I am weak Bridge A E I can do all things A/C# D Through Christ who gives me strength F#m E And I don't have to be A/C# D Strong enough, Strong enough A E I can do all things A/C# D Through Christ who gives me strength F#m E And I don't have to be A/C# D(Strum and hold 6 beats) Strong enough, Strong enough A D F#m D Oh, yeah

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Chorus A I know I'm not strong enough to be D everything that I'm supposed to be F#m D I give up, I'm not strong enough A Hands of mercy won't you cover me D Lord right now I'm asking you to be F#m E Strong enough, Strong enough Bm D(Strum and hold 4 beats) Strong enough

WHERE I BELONG Building 429

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOtsB4O1p3o

All I know is I'm not home yet Em C This is not where I belong G D Take this world and give me Jesus Em C This is not where I belong Instrumental: Em C Verse 2 Em C So the walls come falling down on me Em C And when I'm lost in the current of a raging sea Em C D I have this blessed assurance holding me.

Chorus G D All I know is I'm not home yet Em C This is not where I belong G D Take this world and give me Jesus Em C This is not where I belong Bridge

Intro: Em C (x2) Verse 1 Em C Sometimes it feels like I'm watching from the outside Em C Sometimes it feels like I'm breathing but am I alive Em C D I will keep searching for answers that aren't here to find Chorus G

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D

F C G D When the earth shakes I wanna be found in you F C G D When the lights fade I wanna be found in you [Chorus (2x)] G D All I know is I'm not home yet Em C This is not where I belong G D Take this world and give me Jesus Em C This is not where I belong Outro G D Em C G D Em C G

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012 

APL DE AP: Apl of the eye

A

llan Pineda Lindo Jr (or apl.de.ap) is one-fourth of one of the most popular bands in the world – Blacked Eyed Peas (BEP), and boy, is he proud of his Filipino heritage.

When BEP broke into the international music mainstream in 2003 with their Elephunk album; there was one odd song, a rap number entitled “The Apl Song” that sampled “Balita”, a folk-rock classic from the Filipino band, Asin. Fans soon discovered that Apl was half-American, half-Filipino having been born in Pampanga, Philippines to a Filipino mother and an African American father, the latter stationed in Clark Air Base and left the family to tend for themselves, having gone back to the US. Apl’s rise to fame is a ragsCORD Music Magazine April 2012

to-riches story, from living in poverty in Angeles City to Pearl S Buck Foundation’s matching him to the Hudgens family in the States; from break-dancing to forming BEP with best friend William Adams (Will.I.Am).

While Apl is a dynamite on stage; the man has such a soft heart, doing charitable work in the Philippines and contributing what he can to alleviate the vulnerable in society. Instead of living the highlife in the States, Apl makes it a point to return to his homeland, though it has not been totally kind to him.

As the eldest of six younger siblings, he helped provide the family’s subsistence. He has also seen rough environment that continues to prevail in the place where he was raised - two of his siblings are dead: brother

Arnel committed suicide and the youngest Joven, was murdered at the age of 22 in February 2009 in Porac, Pampanga.

One of his most recent reach out activity was making an unexpected visit and mini-concert at the West City Central School in barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro to cheer up survivors of typhoon Sendong that killed more than 1,000 people in December 2011. After their horrible experience from tropical storm Sendong, the unexpected came as Filipino-American hip-hop artist and Smart brand ambassador apl.de.ap of The Black Eyed Peas staged a miniconcert for survivors staying at the West City Central School in barangay Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City. He ended his performance with the hit song “Where is the love?” saying, “that’s what we 11

“You can be a hero, don’t be a zero, you can live the big thing, get your graduation , earn your occupation” in the land of opportunity”. He takes a stab at government officials: “Politicians corrupting the economy, how they plan to buy the lies of the currencies, and they fail to see the sight and the real belief of my Philippine island”.

not remain with the song, but in building 10,000 classrooms in 10 months in the “We Can Be Anything” Campaign, an education advocacy campaign between NCAF and Apl.

It must be that love for his country, his desire to help the poor, While most people migrate to his dream of success for the the other countries to escape youth, that made will.i.am defrom poverty, violence and dis- clare that Apl is the “king of the crimination, Apl believes the es- Philippines”. It may be a nice cape to all those is through edu- title to go by, but I doubt if Apl cation. In the song, “We Can Be agrees with it, but surely most Anything”, Apl reveals his opti- Filipinos will agree that he has mism: “You can be a hero, Don’t the heart of a king, that makes be a zero, You can live the big not just the Apl of the Black things, You can do the big things, Eyed Peas, but the Apl of the Get your graduation, Earn your Eye of Mama Filipina, Mother occupation.” His advocacy does Philippines. (CORD)

need right now.”

Apl is deeply-rooted in the Philippines. Not only does he contribute Philippine-inspired tunes for BEP (“The Apl Song” “Bebot” and “Mare”), if he is asked to help, he does wholeheartedly, like promoting the Philippines through a song entitled “Take Me to The Philippines”, in partnership with the Department of Tourism of the Philippines.

One of the most poignant songs he has written and recorded is “Mama Filipina” from his solo album, “U Can Dream”, the chorus goes like this: “Mama Filipina, Mama Filipina, I never meant to give you up, I had to move to America”. In one verse, he says, “I remember how we used to be growing up in the land of poverty, now you gotta leave home to feed the family, gotta make it 12

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

APL SONG Apl De Ap

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u3wUZw9S2PM

meal?

D Build a hut to live and to eat and chill in.

Em7 Having to pump the water outta the ground Bm7 The way we put it down utilizing what is around C Like land for farming, river for fishing D Everyone helpin' each other whenever they can Em7 We makin' it happen, from nothin' to somethin' That's how we be survivin' back in my homeland.

[Chorus]

Chorus Em7 Bm7 Lapit mga kaibigan at makinig kayo Em7 Bm7 Ako'y may dala-dalang, balita galing sa bayan ko C D Nais kong ipamahagi ang mga kwento Em7 Ang mga pangyayaring nagaganap Bm7 Em7 Sa lupang pinangako Verse 1 Every place got a ghetto this is my version Check it out...

Em7 Listen closely yo, I got a story to tell Bm7 A version of my ghetto where life felt for real Em7 Some would call it hell but to me it was heaven Bm7 God gave me the grace, amazin' ways of living C How would you feel if you had to catch your

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

Verse 2 Yo, its been a while but...

I been back home to my homeland, (check it out) to see what's going on Em7 Man it feels good to be back at home Bm7 And it's been a decade, on the journey all alone Em7 I was fourteen when I first left Philippines Bm7 I've been away half my life, but it felt like a day C To be next to my mom with her home cooked meal D Meant I felt complete, my emotions I feel!

Em7 Now life has changed for me in the U.S Bm7 But back at home man, life was a mess...

C D I guess sometimes life's stresses gets you down (on your knees) Em7 Oh brother I wish I could have helped you out...

[Chorus]

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FEAST

F o o d

&

M u s i c

5 YEARS SERVING IN HARMONY*

27 May 2012, 10:30am, Blessed John Paul II Mass Centre, Albany Highway, Albany

*

5th Anniversary Celebration of TawagAwit: A Catholic Ministry Spreading God’s Word through music and other acts of love

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

CORD BEST5:

Whitney Houston CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

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CORD pays tribute to Whitney Houston with her Best 5 Songs.

#1 The Greatest Love of All

Originally recorded by George Benson for the soundtrack to the film The Greatest about Muhammad Ali, Houston turned it into one of her most memorable anthems.

Intro:

take away my dignity

E,E7,C#m7-F#m7-Bm7(9),Bm (Repeat twice) E7(sus)

Chorus

A Aaug I believe the children are our future A6 A9 A7 Teach them well and let them lead the way D Daug D6-Daug Show them all the beauty they possess inside D C#m7 F#m7 Bm7 Give them a sense of pride to make it easier E E7 C#m&-F#m7 Bm7 Let the children's laughter remind us how we E7sus used to be A Aaug Everybody seaching for a hero A6 A9 A7 People need someone to look up to D Daug D6-Daug I never found anyone who fulfilled my needs D C#m7 F#m7 Bm7 E7(sus)(D) A lonely place to be, so I learned to depend on me Refrain D Am9/C# Bm7 E7sus4 E7 I decided long ago, never to walk in anyone's shadow D Am9/C# Bm7 E7sus4 If I failed, if I succeed, at least I lived as I be E lieved.

D Am9/C# Bm7 No matter what they take from me they can't E7sus4 hold

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(E' E7') C#m7--F#m7 Bm7 E E7 Because the grea----test Love of all is happen C#m7-F#m7 ing to me Bm7 E E7 c#m7--F#m7 Bm7 E7(sus) A,A7 I found the grea----test love of all inside of me A7 F#m7 Bm7-Em7 The greatest love of all A A7 F#m7-Bm7 Em7-A A7 Bm7 Is easy to achieve learning to love yourself, Em7 A7(sus) Dit is the greatest love of all (Repeat 1st verse, except last word) (D) ...Be. (Repeat Refrain) (Repeat Chorus except last word) D ...All CODA E E7 C#m7 F#m7 Bm7 E And if by chance that special place that you've E7 C#m7-F#m7 been dreaming of Bm7-E E7 C#m7 F#m7 Bm7 Leads you to a lonely place find your strength E7(sus) D-Am9/C#m7,#7sus,Am9 in love

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012 

#2

I Will Always Love You

Nobody noticed this song written and originally recorded by Dolly Parton until Houston made it as the lead single for the motion picture “The Bodyguard”. One of the biggest pop hit singles of all time: 14 weeks at the top of the chart it sold 12 million copies worldwide.

Verse A A If I, should stay F#m I would only be in D E Your way A A So I go, but I know F#m I’ll think of you, every step D E Of the way Chorus A F#m D E And I-I-I-I will always A F#m D E Love you, you, I, will always love you Bridge: F#m E You, my darling you Verse A A Bittersweet, memories F#m That’s all I, am taking DE With me A A So goodbye, please don’t cry F#m

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

We both know, I’m not DE What you need Chorus A F#m D E And I-I-I-I will always A F#m D E Love you, you, I, will always love you Solo Verse A A I hope, life treats you kind F#m And I hope, you have all DE You’ve dreamed of A And I wish to you joy, and happiness F#m But above all of this DE I wish you love Chorus B Abm E F# And I-I-I-I will always B Abm E F# B Love you, I-I-I, will always love you Abm E F# B You, I, will always love you Abm E F# B You, I, will always love you

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#3

Didn’t We Almost Have It All

Nominated for Song of the Year at the 1988 Grammy Awards, this is a well-crafted composition that showcases both emotion and vocal prowess of Houston.

Intro Bb Bbmaj7 Eb Eb Bbsus4/Eb

Dm7 Gm7

Cm7 Dm7

VERSE 1 Bb C#maj7/Ab G7 Remember when we held on in the rain Cm G/B The night we almost lost it Cm F Bb Bb/A Gm Ebmaj7 Once again we can take the night in---to tomor Bbmaj7sus4/Eb row Dm7 Gm7 Living on feelings Cm7 Fsus4 F Bb C/D D Touching you I feel it all again

Didn't we almost have it all verse 2 Bb C#maj7/Ab G7 The way you used to touch me felt so fine Cm G/B We kept our hearts together down the line Cm F Bb Bb/A Gm Ebmaj7 Bbmaj7sus4/Eb A moment in the soul can last forever Dm7 Gm7 Comfort and keep us Cm7 Fsus4 F Bb C/D D Help me bring the feeling back again Chorus

G Gmaj7sus4/C C Bm7 Em7 Didn’t we almost have it all Am7 Dsus4 D G C/D D G Gmaj7sus4/C C Bm7 Em7 When love was all we had worth giving?

Didn't we almost have it all G Gmaj7sus4/C C Bm7 Em7 Am7 Dsus4 D G C/D D The ride with you was worth the fall my When love was all we had worth giving? friend G Gmaj7sus4/C C Bm7 Em7 Am7 Dsus4 D G Eb/F F (Key The ride with you was worth the fall my change) friend Loving you makes life worth living Am7 Dsus4 D G Eb/F F (Key Bb Bbmaj7sus4/Eb Eb Dm7 Gm7 change) Didn’t we almost have it all Loving you makes life worth living Cm7 Fsus4 F Bb Eb/F F Bb Bbmaj7sus4/Eb Eb Dm7 Gm7 The night we held on till the morning Didn't we almost have it all Bb Bbmaj7sus4/Eb Eb Dm7 Cm7 Fsus4 F Bb Eb/F F Gm7 The night we held on till the morning You know you’ll never love that Bb Bbmaj7sus4/Eb Eb Dm7 way again Gm7 Fsus4 F Bb Eb/F You know you'll never love that way again Cm7 Didn’t we almost have it all Cm7 Fsus4 F Bb Eb/F Ebsus2/F Chorus

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

#4

Saving All My Love for You

Marilyn McCoo of the Fifth Dimension did a wonderful recording of this song; but when Houston placed her stamp into it, she transformed it into a No. 1 song and her first Grammy Award for Best Female Pop Vocal for the recording.

Intro G Em

Am

D

G

Em

Am

D

VERSE 1 G Em Am D A few stolen moments is all that we share, G Em Am D You've got your family and they need you there Em A Em A Though I try to resist being last on your list G Bm Em A B7 But no other man's gonna do C Bm Am G Em Am D So I'm saving all my love for you VERSE 2 G Em Am D It's not very easy living all alone G Em Am D My friends try and tell me find a man of my own Em A Em A But each time I try I just break down and cry G Bm Em A B7 ‘Cuz I'd rather be home feeling blue C Bm Am G So I'm saving all my love for you B Bb dim B You used to tell me we'd run away together D D7 G Love gives you the right to be free C#m F# B You said, be patient, just wait a little longer

G A D D7

But that's just an old fantasy

VERSE 3

G I've got to get ready

Em Am D Just a few minutes more G Em Gonna get that old feeling when you walk

Am D through that door Em A Em A For tonight is the night for feeling alright G Bm Em A B7 We'll be making love the whole night through C Bm Am So I'm saving all my love, yes I'm saving all my C Bm Am love C Bm Am G Em Am D Yes I'm saving all my love for you VERSE 4 G Em Am D No other woman is gonna love you more Em Am Em Cause tonight is the night that I'm feeling al A right.

G Bm Em A B7 We'll be making love the whole night through.

C Bm So I'm saving all my love.

Am C Bm Am Yeah I'm saving all my love.

C Bm Am G Em Am D yes, I'm saving all my love for yo....u G Em Am For yo....u (2x)

D

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

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#5

I Have Nothing

From The Bodyguard soundtrack, this song allows Houston to demonstrate her extraordinary vocal pipes with its brilliant arrangement. It may have been unintentional, but the lyrics must have described the diva’s loneliness in superstardom.

Intro: G verse 1 G Em Share my life, take me for what I am C G -C-D 'cause I'll never change all my colours for you.

G Em Take my love, I'll never ask for too much, C G-C-D just all that you are and everything that you do.

Refrain Am D I don't really need to look very much further, Am D I don't want to have to go where you don't follow.

Am D I won't hold it back again, this passion inside, C Am D I can't run from myself, there's nowhere to hide.

Eb F Dm Gm Don't make me close one more door, I don't wanna hurt anymore, Eb F Dm Gm stay in my arms if you dare, or must I imagine you there Eb F Eb F Don't walk away from me, me, I have nothing, nothing, nothing, Bb Gm Eb D if I don't have you, you, you, you

D you love, mm.

G Em I never knew love like I've known it with you, C G -C–D will a memory survive, one I can hold on to.

Refrain Am D I don’t really need to look very much further, Am D I don’t want to have to go where you don’t follow.

Am D I won’t hold it back again, this passion inside, C Am D I can’t run from myself, there’s nowhere to hide.

Eb F Dm Gm Don’t make me close one more door, I don’t wanna hurt anymore, Eb F Dm Gm stay in my arms if you dare, or must I imagine you there Eb F Eb F Don’t walk away from me, me, I have nothing, nothing, nothing, Bb Gm Eb D if I don’t have you, you, you, you. –

VERSE 2 G Em You see through, right to the heart of me, C G C you break down my walls with the strength of

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

PARACHUTE 2012

W

e missed the first two days of Parachute due to a previous engagement and surely we must have squandered a good part of the 4-days of the biggest Christian music festival in the Southern Hemisphere, held in Mystery Creek, Hamilton.

On the third day, Parachute was at the peak of its multi-tiered program, and for a first-timer like me, getting a taste of every bit of the action was impossible. Crossing from one venue to another was challenging due to the distance, but the mix of the sights, people and activities made the treks interesting. Contemporary Christian music, deeply rooted on the Good News, has come a long way with the branching out to all music genres. 100 performers consisting of rap groups, rock bands, indie acts and

CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

major attractions filled the Woodstock-inspired event attracting nearly 20,000 spectators.

The Apollo was surprisingly full-packed, with the youthful crowd giving support to neophyte bands. There was one mother singing more loudly than her nervous daughter performing on stage. In the darkened venues of Palladium and Deluxe, each of the groups had core supporters to heat up the rest of the audience. Among the performers I caught up were Avalanche City, Lifestyle, Ad-Apt and Magnify, undoubtedly masters in their respective genres.

By 5:30pm, most of the people spilled toward the Main Stage as the more established acts began their sets. Citipointe Live got things underway, followed by the engaging and talented Aaron Gillespie. Desperation Band kept the music flowing, with Ascend the Hill working

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the enlightened crowd. It had started to get dark when Parachute Band played some of its new materials to the delight of the audience. Finally, it was Grammy Award winning band Casting Crowns, with lead vocalist Mark Hill delivering one good song after another.

Just as the final song was performed, my family and I climb our way back to the parking lot, so that we’d not get caught up with the traffic jam.

Oddly, most of the vehicles remained still. Only did I realize that majority of the spectators simply settled in the hundreds of tents that sprouted in one of the areas of the vast venue.

Parachute is a model festival – smoke-free, drug-free, wellorganized, balanced performances and diverse activities incorporated. It was worth the distance to celebrate God with music, with brethren, in love, peace and harmony. (CORD)

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

SIDE NOTE MARK HALL: Servant Performer On Jan. 29, Mark Hall, the leader of Casting Crowns, a multiple Grammy and Dove awardee, talked on the topic, “Being a Servant Performer.”

The casually dressed musician said that he started as a youth organizer. It was Bible studies that led to him to composing most of the songs that have earned the band huge following and successful record sales. He focused on 1 Corinthians 2. The person with the Spirit makes judgments about all things, but such a person is not subject to merely human judgments, for, “Who has known the mind of the Lord so as to instruct him?”

He said that people who are in the limelight oftentimes get lost because they believe too much in themselves. A servant performer should be humble and understand that “talents are blessings.”

He stated that people should not “think of us (successful Christian artists) as savior, as we are mere instruments.” Part of the band’s ritual prior to any performance is to make a “prayer walk” around the venue. They talk to people who they meet along the way.

Hall added, “Some of the big stories of Jesus happened as he travelled towards major events.”

He concluded his talk with a confession that “It takes bigger than talent to change people’s lives. My talent should be at the feet of Jesus Christ.”

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FACT SHEET:

TAYLOR SWIFT

Birth Name: Taylor Alison Swift Date of Birth: December 13, 1989 Place of Birth: Reading, Pennsylvania, U.S. Genres: Country Pop, Pop, Country, Dance-Pop, Country Rock Occupations: Singer-Songwriter, Musician, Record Producer, Actress 24

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

WHITE HORSE Taylor Swift

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D1XrJFLxik&ob=av2n Intro: C F Am F x2 C F Say you’re sorry that face of an angel Am F Comes out just when you need it to C F As I paced back and forth all this time Am F ‘Cause I honestly believed in you Am F Holding on the days drag on Gsus4 Stupid girl, G I should have known, I should have known CHORUS C Am That I’m not a princess, this ain’t a fairytale F I’m not the one you’ll sweep off her feet G Lead her up the stairwell C Am This ain’t Hollywood, this is a small town F G I was a dreamer before you went and let me down Am G Now it’s too late for you F C And your white horse, to come around

I had so many dreams about you and me G Happy endings, now I know [CHORUS] Am G F And there you are on your knees C G F Begging for forgiveness, begging for me C G F Bb Just like I always wanted but I’m so sorry CHORUS

C Am ‘Cause I’m not your princess, this ain’t a fairytale F G I’m gonna find someone someday who might actually treat me well C Am This is a big world, that was a small town F G There in my rearview mirror disappearing now Am G F And it’s too late for you and your white horse Am G F C Now it’s too late for you and your white horse, to catch me now F Am Oh, whoa, whoa, whoa F C Try and catch me now F Am Oh, it’s too late F C To catch me now

C F Maybe I was naive, got lost in your eyes Am F And never really had a chance C F My mistake I didn’t know to be in love Am F You had to fight to have the upper hand Am F CORD Music Magazine April 2012

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CONCERT REVIEWS TAYLOR SWIFT

Vector Arena, Auckland - March 17 I couldn’t believe it. The day I’ve been waiting for was here. 7 months of excitement. 7 months of waiting. 7 months, and now I got to see her, one of the greatest pop stars in my time, live.

Today was the day, and it hadn’t fully hit me till that very moment when the doors opened and I was rushing to the front of the stage and standing amongst the thousands of fellow Swifties. We all had ‘13’ – Taylor’s favourite number- etched on our hands, we had lyrics written on our arms, we’d made t-shirts, and we were there for her. Taylor Swift.

The hours waiting in line, the total invasion of my personal bubble, the sore throat, the minute deafness, it was all well worth it.

It was hard to believe that the multi award winning country superstar was standing, singing, only a few metres away from me. She emerged from a haze of smoke belting out her pop hit Sparks Fly. Thousands of faithful fans screaming out the words so loudly even Taylor herself couldn’t be heard over top of the absolute hysteria.

2 hours of pure magic. Although the over the top and elaborate Broadway type productions of songs like, The Story of us and Haunted, were indeed very entertaining and made me wish I could dance around wildly, I thought the more stripped down songs, like Back to December, which she played on a white grand piano and 15 played on one of the many guitars she picked up throughout the concert, were the performances that enabled Taylor’s voice and song writing talent show, and were, for me the defining moments of the entire show.

There were two huge screens on either side of the stage which made it easy to see every move the 22 year old Grammy Award winner made. Her signature smile and glance to the right made the crowd go wild. There were several costume changes; nine to be exact. I even missed one because I took my eyes off her for a split second.

Taylor Swift sure knew how to put on a show.

Not even the hours of listening to all her songs and watching all her music videos and the concert DVD prepared me for the immense production that was the Speak Now World Tour. Taylor closed the show with her biggest hit Love Story, where she circled the whole stadium on a moving balcony as bags of confetti floated to the ground. It was clear to see that Taylor Swift had just made thousands of dreams come true. (Ina Esclamado) 26

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

CROSBY, STILL AND NASH

Trust Stadium, Henderson, Auckland - March 24 I thought I was attending a senior citizens’ convention where the legendary group Crosby Still & Nash kicked off its 2012 world tour. Of course who would care to see CS&N but folks who thought of “Woodstock” as a major social upheaval – and its anthem having been performed by the trio with Neil Young? That was more than 40 years ago.

Without much ado, the group walked straight on stage without any announcement and began playing “Carry On” with a bit of rustiness. By the second number, the band had gelled to deliver anthems that defined a generation including “Marrakesh Express”, “Southern Cross”, “Just a Song before I Go” and “Wooden Ships”.

During the second set, Stephen Stills accompanied the group with a lone acoustic guitar, which amplified the sweet vocal harmony in “Helplessly Hoping”. There were a lot of sing-along songs including “Our House” and “Teach Your Children”; but three songs revealed each of these legends. Stills showed his rough and bluesy vocals in “Love the One You’re with”, Crosby had an unblemished and powerful performance in “Almost Cut my Hair” and Nash with his tender, yet uplifting rendition of “Cathedral”.

Instead of simply resting on its laurel of retro hits, CS&N played new materials (“Radio”, “Almost Gone”. “In His Name”) that spoke on issues such as Wikileaks and the continuing trouble in the Middle East, and yes, the audience appreciated their views and their songs. Also, there were extended instrumentals that showcased the remarkable talents of the back-up musicians.

Unlike other vocal groups such as America and Seals & Crofts that succumbed to pop music demands, CS&N remain true to their folk-rock roots and consistently write songs that espouse their stand on issues. By doing so, CS&N has remained relevant today as they were during Woodstock. So true, as I realized later that in the crowd were youths who knew CS&N songs as much the senior ones did. (CORD) CORD Music Magazine April 2012

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DISCO DISKORAL

AMI Netball Centre, Takapuna, Auckland - Jan 28

The fundraising event, Disco Diskoral, featured three acts namely OBG!, KIS and The Constellation Band (TCB). The first two groups warmed up the dance party, while TCB provided the near non-stop disco music that brought the 300 enthusiasts on the floor. The anthem composed by Visayan novelty songwriter Max Surban was given a make-over by OBG! followed up by Hotdog’s “Manila” and the floor burning “Love is in the Air”. KIS thrilled the crowd with “Hush, Hush”, “Wannabe” and Lady Gaga’s “Born this Way”. TCB, one of the Auckland’s most popular bands, had a repertoire that spanned the decade of disco plus a sprinkling of current dance hits. The dancefloor was never empty of people until the clock neared 12 midnight.

“When is the next one?”, asked a fan. It was a fun night indeed. (CORD)

PAROKYA NI EDGAR

Logan Campbell Centre, ASB Showground, Auckland - Feb 11

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

It took a lot of courage for the producers to bring a Filipino rock band in Auckland, an untested place for such kind of act. And was it a surprise to all when about 2,000 paying patrons gave a rousing welcome to novelty rockers Parokya ni Edgar (PNE). While PNE delivered most of its popular songs with precision, it was front act, Dong Abay who proved to be more charismatic, if not entertaining. The Yano chief songwriter was a genuine jefrox mingling with the crowd, carrying his goods (CDs) for sale. Most distracting though were the technicians and production staff and security that crowded the stage. (CORD)

JOSE MARI CHAN

Westlake Boys Gymnasium, Takapuna, Auckland - March 24

Jose Mari Chan is first and foremost a songwriter whose voice has close similarity to Cliff Richard. He has written and recorded some of the most memorable English-language compositions in the Philippines including “Deep in my Heart”, “Let’s Stop and Talk a While” and “Christmas in our Hearts”.

In his first concert in New Zealand, Joe Mari revealed that he is more than a composer, he is a charming entertainer who tells short anecdotes, who is honest enough to confess that he needs notes to remember the lyrics of his songs, and that he loves so much his wife.

There was never a dull moment, as he shared jokes, sang his love songs and mingled with the audience. You would have thought it was Joe Mari simply leading his fans (both young and old) to a sing-along session. And he shared the limelight with Filipino talents in New Zealand who sang with him on stage. It was fancy meeting you in Auckland, Joe Mari. (CORD) CORD Music Magazine April 2012

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CORD IMAGES

PINASUGBO

Over the years, I have this fascination on things CEBUANO. Colon, Pan de Borikat, the changing skyline, the exotic angle of ordinary street life.

Whenever possible, though, I try to veer away from the usual postcard stuff in subject matter and approach. I believe there's definitely more about the place than showing the Taoist Temple or the Magellan's Cross.

Hopefully, I could gather enough materials for a photo exhibit and eventually, a book project to be titled PINASUGBO. Bob Lim

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Ayala, Cebu

Ayala, Cebu

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Mambaling, Cebu

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Lahug, Cebu

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Lahug, Cebu 35

36 Tisoy Kuno

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

Ayala, Cebu

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VINCE BORROMEO Making New Sense (in) Music

VINCE BORROMEO HAS evolved into an Acoustic Rock Musical Artist whose new project is called “New Sense Music”. Literally he wants to promote a new kind of sensibility, idea, mindset with his music.

Vince has taken a long musical journey in creativity. He composes and has come out with 2 albums under BMG Records with a duo called “X2” (Times Two) then he put his creativity in some musical scoring in the likes of the movies “The Mayor Lim Story” and “Demolisyon”.

He considers himself more of a tune smith and neo-poet. It must come from the genes: his great grandfather Juan Borromeo was a composer and music teacher in the 1800s who raised 16 children purely by his teaching and playing music. One of his sons Lou, who carried the stage name, “Borromeo Lou” (who went to the US) brought Louisiana jazz to the Philippines in the 1920s and became known as the “King of Jazz”.

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CORD exclusive interview with Vince: CORD: What is your current band?

This Band can be described as an amalgamation of genres or styles. Many times you will hear of a band as rock, or is a jazz band, or a reggae band. The band members share different juices in music. I am more of an Acoustic Rock Player. Carlo Balita is a Heavy Rock Guitarist of “Dahong Palay”. Rolando jr. Almazora is a true to life magician who does magic with his Jazz influenced drumming. Bassist Lylon (Baloney) Alinsod, who is more of a back bone with Ska and Reggae influences.

CORD: How do you sound with so diverse music styles?

When we are set loose to do the New Sense Project with no hindrance or curtailment as to style and feel, the question is what would you expect on stage? It’s either pure madness or pure bliss; it’s either nuisance or newsense, a double edged sword. It could be a nightmare or a real good trip.

CORD: How did you guys meet?

I was nursing a hurt heart at the loss of Arnold Lee, my best friend and drummer of the last band I had. Producer Ramon Zialcita called me to join a Northern Luzon Concert Tour produced by FEAR Production. The 4-day road show started in Angeles City culminating in the Pine city of Baguio. I met the guys during that tour.

CORD: Other than the eclectic music output of the band, what themes do you write about?

Let’s say it as diverse as our music. That would include angels, Visayan music, Ilocanos, reproductive health bill, what real love is? It’s like opening a Pandora’s Box… the songs come as we share our thoughts about specific topics, the outcome is what I call “new sense”.

CORD: How do you call the band?

The group carries my name because I basically write the songs, but the music is contributed by the rest of the guys. I do not impose on these guys how to play it. They play it the way they feel. I don’t give a limit to their creativity.

CORD: What’s going to happen next?

Nobody really knows; but for the moment we’re just enjoying this experience.

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MUSIC + CURRENT The 54th Grammy Awards recognized the Gospel/Contemporary Christian Artists on February 12, 2012 at the Staples’ Center. The winners were: Gospel/Contemporary Christian Music Performance: 'Jesus', Le'andria Johnson; Gospel Song: "Hello Fear," Kirk Franklin, Songwriter (Kirk Franklin); Contemporary Christian Music Song: "Blessings," Laura Story; Gospel Album: Hello Fear, Kirk Franklin Contemporary Christian Music Album: And If Our God Is for Us...,Chris Tomlin…American Idol alumni Danny Gokey, Ruben Studdard, Mandisa and Jason Castro will appear and perform at the 43rd Annual GMA Dove Awards on April 19 at the Fox Theatre in Atlanta. David Mann and Chonda Pierce will host the ceremonies...NOW, the latest studio release of GRAMMY Award nominated rock act Fireflight top the sales charts on March 6 coming in at No. 1 on multiple sales charts, including SoundScan’s Current Contemporary Christian Overall Chart, the Rock Alternative Chart as well as the iTunes Christian & Gospel Albums chart. This is a career best for the group, who is enjoying success at radio as well with current single “Stay Close,” also No. 1 at Christian Rock radio this week. Fireflight wrapped the initial 20-city leg of its “Stay Close” tour…Building 429 is headlining a 30-city “Sounds of Hope” tour and will join the “Winter Jam Tour Spectacular,” visiting 47 cities through early April for an estimated audience of more than 500,000 attendees. The band’s latest single “Where I Belong” held strong at No. 1 on iTunes for multiple weeks and currently sells 10,000 tracks every week. .. On April 14, Desperation Band known for songs such as "Overcome," "I Am Free" and "Yahweh" releases its new, 13-track album, Center Of It All. The album is a bold call for believers to rise up and realize that God is not a priority, but the priority, the "Center Of It All." "We have found that our mission is to help awaken people to the presence of God," says Desperation Band frontman Jon Egan. "When that happens, everything else falls into place. Our worship then naturally flows into every aspect of our lives. And it flows into action for others… the less fortunate, widows, orphans"… Matthew West is once again extending an invite for people to submit their stories for his new album slated for release this year. After receiving over 10,000 personal stories from all over the globe for his 2010 project The Story of Your Life, the acclaimed singer/songwriter who has been forever impacted by the outpouring of stories, felt as though there was even more for others to say during this season of his music. The singer/songwriter is collecting stories through the end of March, and giving away a free download of “The Story of Your Life” for every submission. West will begin recording the new album in the spring of this year with a plan to unveil the set of new songs in September…

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Aaron Gillespie released his solo worship project Anthem Song to rave reviews and sales success. His follow up in an EP Echo Your Song (Live) on BEC Recordings. This six-song EP features songs from Anthem Song, two Hillsong covers as well as worship favorites from his tour. Echo Your Song entered the Top 10 on the iTunes Christian chart just hours after releasing. Together with New Zealand’s Parachute Band, Gillespie is embarking on a cross Canadian tour along with Parachute Band this year…Ring The Bell, the first feature from Beach Street Records founder and Casting Crowns’ producer Mark A. Miller, started filming in March.

Miller is the lead singer and founder of the country music group Sawyer Brown, and is taking a break from the band’s 30th anniversary tour to produce the film. When slick high-powered agent Rob Decker arrives looking for his next major league prospect, he finds more than he bargained for at the Cooke Boys Ranch.

As he works to secure Shawn Hart, the top high school baseball prospect in the country, he encounters a cast of characters who value happiness and common sense over dollars and cents. Filled with music, laughter and faith, Ring the Bell is a transforming story of how one fast-paced executive learns the true meaning of success. The film features a host of well- known Christian music artists: Mark Hall and Casting Crowns, Steven Curtis Chapman and Matthew West all play a role in this inspirational drama…Newsboys is currently headlining their biggest tour the “God’s Not Dead Tour” until May 6th and hitting over 60 markets across the U.S. With their latest radio single, "God's Not Dead (Like A Lion)," Newsboys have taken the top spot on Billboard's CHR charts for four weeks in a row…Acclaimed Curb Records vocal group No Other Name announced the launch of its “Let It Start With Me” national “I Pledge” campaign.

The campaign seeks to mobilize believers to follow The Great Commission, with No Other Name offering fans a practical way to get involved via its annual mission trip this summer. A longtime proponent of missions, No Other Name’s ministry platform includes encouraging others to make a difference by sharing the Gospel in the world around them. Consequently, the “Let It Start With Me” campaign urges fans to be the catalyst for change by committing to give to missions, pray for missionaries, or go themselves.

Interested participants are asked to make a “pledge” online via www.letitstartwithme.com and share their stories.

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HAIKUS

By M Batulan Do not take too long In your walk through the forest The trail may be wrong *** Climbed up the mountain With few shrubs to hold unto O, where have you been? *** Reached the mountain peak What a triumphant feeling It was worth the trek. *** Come enter the cave Where snakes are said to dwell Not for the naïve. *** Summer in Ponod Everlasting in my mind Mem’ries of childhood.

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Sunog’s Fable

Princess Ant and Princess Termite Princess Ant and Princess Termite were classmates in the training hive of Principal Honeybee. Queen Ant sent her daughter to prepare the latter in the task of leading the Ant Kingdom. Queen Termite persuaded her daughter to go with the promise that all of the Termite Kingdom – all subjects, all possessions – would be given to her. But in truth, Queen Termite wanted Principal Honeybee to discipline Princess Termite who thought more of herself than anything else.

Principal Honeybee showed the two princesses the hive where the bees shared the various tasks of building the combs, getting the nectar, processing honey and caring for both young and old. The principal taught them the values practiced by the bees, which made the hive an orderly and prosperous Bee Kingdom. The mentor shared many of her thoughts to the two royalties. Princess Ant took note of the valuable lessons and, even, joined the worker bees in their tasks. Princess Termite, who was prettier than Princess Ant, did not care so much about the lectures of Principal Honeybee. Most of the time, she would just flaunt her beauty for the busy bees to see or she would just gaze outside imagining herself as the ruler of Bee Kingdom, which could be seen by all other ground kingdoms.

Before the two left for their kingdoms, Principal Honeybee gave them a parting message: “Carry well the lessons I have shared with you in your heart and in your mind and use these well for the benefit of others.” Princess Ant and Princess Termite bid each other goodbye and returned to their respective kingdoms.

Princess Ant succeeded her mother. She shared with her subjects what she saw in Bee Kingdom. She asked everyone to make the kingdom orderly and prosperous. Princess Ant led them in digging deeper into the ground to make the most beautiful Ant Kingdom. There were rooms for rest and recreation, for storage of food, for caring of the young, for resting place for the dead. She used well the lessons taught by Principal Honeybee.

Princess Termite became the queen. She did not want her kingdom deep in the ground. She wanted to make a castle on the ground. When the castle was completed, she was not satisfied. She ordered all her subjects to build a kingdom that could be seen by all other kingdoms. She told them that the Termite Kingdom should be higher than the Bee Kingdom. The termites found a very tall dead tree. Everyone worked hard to build the fantasy of Princess Termite. Those who did not agree were punished. When all was completed, the royal termite was so proud for she had built the Termite Kingdom in the sky.

One day, a great fire struck the forest. Creatures, big and small, retreated away from the fire which ate up one tree after another. Princess Ant was informed of the threat. She told her subjects to hide into the deeper part of the kingdom as she ordered her soldiers to close the gate at the highest ground. While her subjects panicked, Princess Termite told them that they should not be afraid for they were at the highest tree in the forest.

“The fire will never reach us,” she confidently declared. But the fire grew bigger and soon struck the tall dead tree of Termite Kingdom.

A strong rain stopped the fire. When all was calm, the soldier ants opened the gate of Ant Kingdom. Princess Ant gazed outside to see what was left behind. She looked for the tall dead tree, but it was gone. So was Princess Termite and her Termite Kingdom. (taken from the book, “The Rooster whose Crow was a Bleat and Other Short Stories”)

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BEST OF BLOTFREE

By Bro Mel B Libre

BORN TO DIE “And they lived happily ever after,” so goes the typical final sentence of fairy tales. Everybody loves a happy ending. For it is the nature of human beings to want to live a life that is filled with joy and mirth. A blissful life, in human terms, is tied up to health, wealth and fame.

Health is defined in the physical sense – longevity and immunity from sickness. Wealth connotes the state of having more than enough of material possessions. With fame comes recognition, if not adulation, from others.

By maintaining health, attaining wealth and achieving fame, an individual tends to be attached to the world, not wanting to let go of the good life. The idea of death then becomes unwelcome and dreadful. Yet as certain as a man is born, it is certain too for him to die. For in truth and in fact, we are born to die.

In a span of five years (1999 to 2004), I witnessed the death of three members in my family: my mother, my eldest brother and lastly my father. My mother, Milagros, had suffered a series of heart attacks before she finally succumbed to ischemia. My brother, Angel III, at the age of 50 was taken by the Lord when he died likewise of ischemia. My father, Angel Jr., unsuccessfully battled cancer for less than a year from detection. Those were difficult and heartwrenching times. It made me realize that as they had died, so will I. It is just a matter of time.

It should therefore be the objective of each and every individual to seek a happy ending.

Christ Jesus, who knew beforehand of His death at the cross, promised us Salvation. “Whoever believes in Him should not perish but have eternal life.” (John 3:15) It is life multiplied many times over the limited one that we experience in this earth.

Isaac Bashevis Singer pointed out: “Life is God’s novel. Let him write it”. The Lord Almighty has made the outline of each one’s life story. With free will, He gives us the chance to make it as worthy, as interesting and as meaningful as the life of His Only Son, Jesus Christ. He wants us to be good human beings and to have good stories to tell to Him. “But the good man – what a different story! For the good man – the blameless, the upright, the man of peace – he has a wonderful future ahead of him. For him there is a happy ending.”

(Psalm 37:37) 44

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

We Need You TawagAwit invites you to help in spreading God’s Word through music and other acts of love.

You can be a: (1) member; (2) supporter or (3) organizer A member is one who can attend to the regular activities of the Ministry.

The minimum participation are: attendance during practice sessions of songs, usually once a week or once every two weeks AND singing with the group during the assigned mass usually once a month or once every two months.

A supporter is one who can donate services or resources to the Ministry.

There are special events that TawagAwit organizes and the events need finances or helping hands.

Email: librelaw@yahoo.com for more information

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GOOD LAUGH Swans sing before they die. It’s not recommended though that if you are old and dying, you’d be a good material for the church choir – just join the congregation. *** The choir was contracted to sing in a wedding. The list of songs was submitted and incorporated by the wedding planner into the mass guide.

After the communion song, the priest proceeded to the signing of the marriage documents, signaling the choir to start singing. The choir sang the final song in the list.

After all the documents were signed, the priest made the final rites of the mass winked at the choirmaster for the final hymn. The choir members looked at each other as they had just sung the final hymn during the signing ceremony. They decided to sing the entrance hymn again, explaining later that it’s the wedding anthem. *** Beethoven was deaf when he composed some of his masterpieces. No wonder these are difficult to play, and often hard to appreciate. He didn’t have to listen to what he wrote. *** CORDictionarious nation

Church: A place for worship; faith believers; if ancient, a tourist desti-

Collection: Voluntary donation to the church; change left in the pocket while attending mass Confession: A process of cleansing the spirit of sins; unmasking one’s self in a dark confession box Congregation: Worshippers; people taking a break from their daily routine Organist: Music accompanist in the mass celebration; the person who holds the right key to church singing Pews: The chairs for the diminishing number of churchgoers.

Priest: A minister of God; Ryan Seacrest in robe

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KIM & EL

MR JEYDI’S WITDOM

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Jam n’ Dance

By Jam Parado

CORD: You did a ‘musicaletta’ in your Sinulog presentation this year?

Jam: Yes, it was conceptualized to respond to the request of the organizers.

CORD: How was that?

Jam: You see, the organizers assigned a region or place in the Philippines as inspiration for their offering to the Child Jesus. And the Katilingbang Bisaya sa New Zealand naturally got Cebu, where the Sto Nino was given by Magellan to Rajah Humabon and where the first Christian conversion occurred.

CORD: What is a ‘musicalette’?

Jam: If a ‘musicale’ is a long presentation of music and dances, then a ‘musicaletta’ is much shorter. So what we did was to put together short original songs that told the story of the first conversion, culminating in the grand dance.

CORD: Can you describe to us the whole presentation?

Jam: It is better appreciated if viewed however if I must describe it, then it starts with the chanting to dieties of the Sugbuanons, the natives of Cebu, for the healing of the child prince. Nothing happens, then Magellan and company arrive in the shores, gifts the Queen Amihan with the image of the Sto Nino, and soon the child is healed, so the Sinulog danceoffering begins with both Sugbuanons and the Spaniards. It then ends with the handing of the Cross to the Rajah to symbolize the conversion.

CORD: What was the biggest challenge in this year’s presentation?

Jam: The short period to conceptualize and rehearse. The combination of play and dance is a challenge, but we did pull it off. It was actually a work in progress as we rehearsed. While I had the idea of how the presentation would go, I sought comments and suggestion from the composer and the dancers on what they thought would make the presentation better and that they would be proud of.

CORD: Were you able to achieve a better presentation and what made you proud?

Jam: Yeah, we certainly did a better one than our winning presentation last year. There was more color, there were more movements and there was drama. But if I had to pick a proud moment, it was having my 4-year old son, Jeydi, participate as the child prince and how he performed professionally his part.

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FILM REVIEWS

The The Iron Iron LadyLady THE West City theatre in Auckland was occupied by a sparse audience consisting of matured people and a few young ones, as the film “Iron Lady” was shown.

Thatcher who today suffers from tions of democracy. Thatcher was a dementia. statesman who took her conservative ideology as a core of her govFrom there, the story takes off, ernment. with flashes of an ambitious grocer’s daughter entering politics She favored deregulation of the My son, Me-el accompanied me at a tender age of 25. She lost in financial sector, privatized statein viewing the much-publicized her earlier bids as MP, succeeding owned companies, and took a biopic of Margaret Thatcher, the only in 1959, and rising through strong stance against labor union only woman Prime Minister of the the ranks wresting the leadership bullying. She opposed socialism United Kingdom who served from of the Conservative Party in 1975 and communism, disagreed on a 1979 until 1990. and becoming Prime Minister four unified currency of the Europeyears later. an Community and fought a war Thatcher got the nickname “Iron against Argentina over the FalkLady” from a published article in The film director Phyllida Lloyd lands in 1982. the Soviet newspaper Krasnaya exercises artistic freedom by deZvezda responding to attack by the picting Thatcher as a frail woman Thatcher stood equal to two of the UK Member of Parliament (MP) who hallucinates about her de- most powerful leaders of the world in 1976 on Communist Russia’s ceased husband, Denis, and makes in that era---US President Ronald imperial ambitions. This part was her reflect on the milestones of Reagan and Soviet Union President overlooked by the scriptwriters, her life, mostly political. There is a Mikhail Gorbachev. Thatcher had but it didn’t matter for the film de- subtle message that she abandoned such strong beliefs in her instincts picted Thatcher as a woman whose her family obligations in favor of that as she was on third term as iron will catapulted her to the high- the larger affairs of the State.

Prime Minister, she defied advice est position in the male-dominated of her closest associates, leaving British politics.

Leading a country and its people her isolated and vulnerable. is not simple with the complexity The film begins with an elderly of society; with the competing in- This is not a “feel-good” opus rathwoman left unnoticed by oth- terests of people, politicians and er it is a reminder to all who seek ers as she purchases an item in a nations; with the unforeseen cir- power that nothing lasts forever. dairy (retail store). The woman is cumstances that shake the founda- Iron will melt so does the Lady.

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Tree of Life

Tree of Life won the Palme d’Or in the prestigious 2011 Cannes Film Festival, and for that reason alone, it is a “must see” movie. But the reviews on the film were polarizing with some saying it is a “masterpiece” while others describing it is overrated and overhyped work of recluse writer and director Terrence Malick.

The contradictory reviews intrigued me, that prior to viewing it I took the time to see for the first time another misunderstood picture, “Space Odyssey 2001”. While the stories are totally different, the approach is parallel and both films delve on the deeper meaning of life and implications of death.

The main character (Jack O'Brien) in Tree of Life is played by Sean Penn, as a middle-aged man who reflects on his past, and ponders about the fate of those who passed away. Like “Space Odyssey”, the origins of the universe and the beginnings of the earth are intentionally interposed with the writer’s objective of illustrating the parallelism of the existence of the earth and the life of man.

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While the dialogues are sparse, the images live a strong impression, especially on the contrasting approaches of parenthood. The father (played by Brad Pitt) is authoritative and a disciplinarian, while the mother ((Jessica Chastain) is nurturing and loving. The young Jack eventually rebels against his father who works relentlessly to succeed financially, only to fail.

The film ends with the seemingly lost Jack seeing a vision of his family and those whom he had relations in the past. His father is happy seeing him, so is his younger brother who had died. His loving mother accompanied by a woman in white then looks up to the sky and says, “I give him to you. I give you my son.” Jack, back to reality, now carries a smile on his face.

Malick must be proud of this film.

I read somewhere that it is semibiographical; and is one which any master director aspires to make, for indeed it took decades for this film to be finally released. To fully appreciate this opus, one must pay attention, be open-minded and make it personal. (CORD)

Extremely Loud & Incredibly Close

Hanks and Sandra Bullock were on it plus it was nominated as best picture at the Oscars. Thomas Horn (the boy who plays the 9-year old Oskar in the movie) has some sort of similarity with Haley Joel Osment (the boy who has this really small creepy "The Sixth Sense" voice) who I find cutish.

Oskar Schell, a very intelligent, obsessive compulsive child who has a thing for exploring and might have had borderline autism or aspergers, narrates this story. He lost his father in the 9/11 World Trade Center terrorist attack and deals with his loss by going on a mission to search for the owner of the key he found in one of his father's closet. On his journey, he gets reunited with his long lost 'mute' grandfather, and meets all sorts of characters who's story he has compiled into a journal. Interestingly, he carried a tambourine with him which he jiggles to calm himself down under stressful situations. Of course, the movie had a redemptive ending.

I give the movie 3 out of 5 stars.

The story gets a 4.5 because it was really worth telling - it had a 'feel good' factor going and for the sentimental in me, I did get moved.

BUT overall I don't think it deserved to be nominated. I was disappointed that it was forgettable, the sort of movie that you did NOT want to keep on your brag shelf.

Why the title, you ask? I suggest for you to read Jonathan Safran Foer's novel instead of watching this film with your family. (Chichi Abadingo)

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

John Carter

WITH a staggering cost of $250 million, Disney’s John Carter was trashed by critics even before it was played on screen. The negative reviews were based on the promotional trailer and photos of the actors who played key roles, especially Taylor Kitsch (John Carter); Lynn Collins (Princess Dejah Thoris) and Willem Dafoe (Tars Tarkas).

Disney timed the release of this film on the centenary of its first publication in 1912 by Edgar Rice Burrough (who would later publish his more popular creation “Tarzan”).

Director/writer Andrew Stanton (“Finding Nemo” and “Wall-E”) was given the task of re-creating Burrough’s “Barsoom” (Mars) and its inhabitants on the silver screen.

Stanton’s talent as an excellent storyteller is evident, with his ability to pack in two hours and 19 minutes the origin of JC, his initial adventures in Mars and the personal battles he engages.

Kitsch and Collins match perfectly, and both do justice to their respec-

CORD Music Magazine April 2012

tive characters. Kitsch, as the reluctant hero, and Collins, as the strong-willed princess, fill the big screen with tension, action and romance. While the battles bring the film to perfect crescendos, the dialogues on principles and causes are fascinating as well.

ture audiences, THG cast young people (led by Jennifer Lawrence) and targeting a younger audience.

Lionsgate, dubbed as the next major film producer, knows that the Harry Potter/Twilight generation is a cash cow and creating a similar franchise is a no-brainer. But why The visual effects are stunning, al- one that makes murder fun and though the gravity-defying jumps exciting? It’s a multi-million book of JC go over the top. The Mars’ bestseller, and had the endorsegreen Tharks look incredibly real, ment of Twilight author Stephenie and may have influenced James Meyer.

Cameron’s blue Na’vis in “Avatar.”

Actually, THG is unoriginal, unNow that Disney has officially creative and unholy. While “The declared the film a financial flop, Truman Show” had heart, THG one can say that John Carter, has blood. While “Predator” had though original in 1912, came too murderous aliens, THG has coldlate on screen as most of its ele- bloodied kids. While “Gladiator” ments have been ripped off and had spiritual undertones, THG has incorporated in such films as Star values twisted.

Wars, Star Trek and Avatar. Rest in Peace, JC. (CORD) This film adaption takes us to the future in a nation called Panem governed by the central authority The Hunger Games in Capitol that conducts the annual Hunger Games where 2 pairs from each of the subservient twelve districts must battle to the death, telecast for all to see.

The well-written fast paced script keeps one tight on the seat, as the drama on the first frames lead towards the duel for survival.

The much hyped flick, “The Hunger Games” (THG) is a violent film sans the gory details. Unlike the regular trash we are offered featuring mature actors for ma-

The heroine ultimately wins, and opens the door for fame and fortune as well as rivalry of potential lovers. Just perfect for a sequel.

(CORD)

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

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CORD Music Magazine  April 2012

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CORD

CORD is an experimental digital publication.

Its mission is to promote love, peace and harmony through positive music and inspiring articles and literary works under the guidance of the Holy Spirit.

It aims to strengthIt is driven purely by en the tie that the desire to bring binds us all to the the Light of God to all Great Composer. peoples in the world.

This publication is a workin-progress and through feedback and support of those who believe in its mission and with God’s grace, we hope to improve and be of service for years to come.

We ask you to forward this Please do not print or publication to your famreproduce this for sale.

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CORD Music Magazine April 2012

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