To conclude my running movie theme, I'm now going to introduce you to one of my favorites. Everything is Illuminated is a film about a Jewish boy searching for the story of his grandfather in Ukraine, which is right here:
Just across the Black Sea from the middle east. Anyway, if you like Elijah Wood, beautiful stories, and dogs that are slightly deranged (yet so, so playful!) then I highly recommend this flick.
I thought of this movie when we listened to some music earlier this week. I was quickly reminded of this soundtrack. There are many songs by the artist Gogol Bordello and they are incredibly happy-making. Here's my favorite, fitting for Converse.
Although, Gogol Bordello is a "Gypsy Punk" band based out of New York City... so I'm not sure if it counts.
Next, I was intrigued by the music of Indonesia and eager to see what else was out there, outside the Gamelan and Puppet Shows. I happened to be conversing with my boyfriend about Indonesian music yesterday, and he informed me that he had briefly been "involved" with an Indonesian Pop Star.
"WHAT?! FOR REAL!??!"
"Yes, Erica. She was a B%*#$."
"Is she on YouTube!?"
Narissa, everyone, with NIORY:
She's 4'10". Along with this video came a story. Narissa, the lead singer, apparently has a MASSIVE rival who is scandalous. Her name is Cinta Laura, and is another "pop" example of Indonesian fused with American music. Scandalous or not? I'll let you be the judge.
Next, I am hoping beyond hope that I will be able to go on the Jan Term trip to Egypt next year, so I began to do some snooping. I stumbled upon an abundance of videos using the music of Oman Khairat, whom I Wikied. I discovered that he is an Egyptian composer and pianist born into a familiy rich with musicians. (His uncle established the Cairo Conservatory.) Here's a soothing one:
And... Since I'm talking about Egypt... and Jewish people...
:) The Children get me every time. Ahhh.
I have enjoyed exchanging Cool Stuff with you all. :)
And... Since I'm talking about Egypt... and Jewish people...
:) The Children get me every time. Ahhh.
I have enjoyed exchanging Cool Stuff with you all. :)
Happy Friday!
<3
Wow, Erica, so much cool stuff! :] Kind of neat that your boyfriend was 'involved' with an Indionisan pop star... seems like that would be a very interesting story to hear. Also, I love the "Start Wearing Purple". I think we should have a movement to make that Converse's new slogan for recruiting students.
ReplyDeletePrince of Egypt! I love that movie. Going to Egypt would be really cool. The piece by Oman Khairat was really beautiful. :)
ReplyDeleteMuch fun! But I'm going to have to hear more about this boyfriend of yours, and how he got involved with an Indonesian pop star.... :-)
ReplyDeleteAnd I'm with Katie here--you need to see to it that "Start Wearing Purple" becomes the unofficial Converse theme song. You know, we don't really have a fight song like most schools, do we? Hmmmmmm....