Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Look nice but damaged....) 『Mine came with a large chipped part which was white color. I didn't return it due to time restraints (it was a gift).』 『This magnificent pair of Fu Dogs, cast from Hong Tze resin in a traditional deep and shiny red finish, are a authentic historical reproduction. The Chinese Fu Dog (fu is the Chinese word for happiness), also known as the Happiness Dog as well as the Celestial Dog, originated in China with its name deriving from the city of Foochow.The Fu Dog, a recurring theme in Chinese culture, has the positive attribute of bringing happiness and good fortune.
Later in Ancient China, statues of these mythical creatures were placed outside homes, palaces and businesses to also ward off evil spirits and keep thieves at bay.』 タイトル『 Chronicles >
『 Chronicles >
『 Genesis Box Set 3 (1970-1975)[13 Disc Set] >
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (The best of Asia...sort of) 『Don't be fooled by the title. This is just their first three albums "Asia", "Alpha" and "Astra" in one package. It's not really a bad idea since everything they've released since then have been commercial failures. If you really want the best of John Wetton and company then go with "The Very Best Of Asia:Heat Of The Moment (1982-1990)" or even the 2CD set "Gold" which has all the songs here plus some additional tracks. Otherwise, this set will just save you the trouble of getting their first three albums seperately』
price：$5.98
Sony BMG Custom Marketing Group
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Quite pleased to have this recording...) 『This CD is certainly not a slam or rip-off (as ome people are prone to imply)directed to the "orginal four" members of Asia. When this recording was made (Dec 2005), Payne was a member of the band and had been for a decade. Keyboard wiz (and founder) Geoff Downes was there as well, sounding great. In fact, the entire recording is extremely well done and is an historical record of one incarnation of Asia that fans will never hear again. Payne's vocals were only getting stronger and more confident (Payne was no doubt much happier to be able to sing from his own recordings rather than than the hits from the early 1980's). He also should be commended for having to step in (very competently)and fill a void (Wetton had left the group), having to vocalize some of the best known songs in American rock and roll (few people missed "Only Time will Tell" and "Heat of the Moment" the first time around). Buy this live CD with confidence and you will be rewarded with some of the fastest guitar work going, by the vastly underrated (usually unknown) Guthrie Govan. This guy deserves more exposure. The current Asia is not going to lose any money over this...John Payne's name is clearly and boldly printed across the front cover and while they never enjoyed the popularity of the "original four", this Asia provided some great recordings...and this is their final statement. Poor quality Asia (live) recordings existed before, but this certainly is not one of them.』
(John Payne's Coda) 『This is a good sounding later day live Asia release. The best part is hearing songs from Silent Nation live. If you are a Asia fan add it to your collection. You won't be disappointed. As we all know some of the live Asia CDs can be a little hard to listen to because of poor sound quality. This is not the case with this release. Enjoy!』
(A GREAT PIECE OF MUSICAL WORK!) 『I purchased this CD shortly after seeing "the original ASIA line up" on tour, last month, April of 2008. I always thought that John Payne got short shrift from everyone, including the fans of ASIA, after the original 4 members put aside their childhood squabbles and got back together. Like other folks have already noted John Payne was in ASIA longer than Carl Palmer, Steve Howe and John Wetton put together. When I spoke to Geoff Downes and John Payne during the now infamous acoustic tour, a few years back, there was no doubt that John was an integral part of ASIA.
John Payne's start with ASIA was a shaky one in my opinion, voice wise, but he improved with age, and this CD, Extended Versions [Live, is proof of how John's voice got better and the rest of the band really evolved. This CD of a live show in Helsinki, Finland shows how this version of the band really worked as one unit. The musicianship on this Live CD is awesome and especially Geoff Downes is in top form. The versions of songs like Here Comes the Feeling, the material from the Silent Nation CD, a great work on its own, and even the landmark Sole Survivor show that despite the desertion of 3 of the original members of ASIA, the band played on, and played on damn well in my opionion. If you don't think so, listen to Arena, Aura, and Silent Nation and compare it to the relatively safe fare and at times unremarkable stuff on the reunion CD Phoenix.
As for another reviewer's remark that John Payne should get over it, the same can be said for John Wetton et al, with the exception of Geoff Downes, who I hope one day will make peace with John Payne the way he has with Misters Wetton, Palmer, and Howe. John Payne paid his dues and worked hard for ASIA and this CD is proof of that fact. What's the big deal, the Beach Boys went two decades with fill-ins for Brian Wilson, and made great music live and in the studio. I think it is time for folks to stop acting childish, this goes for all former members of ASIA, and its fan base, and for the band to just get on making good music.』
(A Good Thing) 『John Payne may not have been in the original lineup, but he fronted the band for a very long time, giving it his full commitment. A release like this is a good thing because it shows how much life he breathed into a band that had already imploded for a number of reasons. Good for him! He's a very talented fellow who deserves much success in his new endeavors. I'm more interested in THIS group than in the reunion of the original crew.』
(The end of an era) 『This is a live album recorded November 2005 in Helsinki, Finland. This is one of the last Asia concerts to feature both John Payne and Geoffrey Downes. A few months later, they announced the end of their partnership after nearly two decades. Downes brought back the original lineup while the others had a new group, GPS, only to start their own Asia (there are two Starships, so why not two Asias?), as well as Asia featuring John Payne, which is being used here. Most of the very first album is covered here, and three from the last album, "Silent Nation", so there isn't anything from in between. The Roger Dean logo couldn't be afforded, so a poor man's version is here. This is part of the long-running Extended Versions series started by BMG's (now Sony's) budget line. This will be released everywhere else as "Scandinavia" by Devgel. This release is closure for those of you who may only like John Payne's Asia (there are some), but also for those who may not be familiar with him. I bought it new here, but then I got an autographed copy.』
price：$17.98
Decca Import
Temporarily out of stock. Order now and we'll deliver when available. We'll e-mail you with an estimated delivery date as soon as we have more information. Your credit card will not be charged until we ship the item. Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Smashing Borodin) 『I have purchased (and in some cases, sold) every single version of the Borodin symphonies on CD. Borodin's symphonies are strange creatures, in that they "sound" so incredibly spontaneous and gorgeous, and yet, sometimes they don't really take off; in other words, they often sound like colorful suites without any real symphonic proportions or purpose. Several fine versions of No.2, such as Kubelik's and Ansermet's, don't really convince me that this is a first-rate symphony, just generally good music. Ashkenazy's is one of the few versions that makes this music great music and symphonic music.
If nothing else, he makes a resounding case for the neglected First Symphony, which is little short of genius. It is cut very much from the same cloth as other First Symphonies in the 'Mighty Handful': Balakirev's First (who advised Borodin and initially made many "corrections" which Borodin later excised) is a clear model, as is Rimsky's First. While I think Balakirev's is ultimately the strongest of the three Firsts, Borodin's is the most lyrical and inviting: you want to live in this world over and over again, as its melodies are rich and seductive in the best "Oriental" sense of Russian Romanticism. The first movement is powerful and expansive, yet without making an epic statement; the second is a charming scherzo (very much like Balakirev's 1st) with an achingly beautiful trio. But the slow movement is heavenly--one of his greatest, most inpsired creations, and even, if possible, more beautiful than that of No.2. It seems to come out of nowhere, or at least, from the very depths of old world melodies and folksongs. It's timeless and beautiful, and it is scored to perfection (interestingly, this is one of Borodin's only works that was not touched up by Rimsky or Glazunov). The finale is a jaunty dance-like piece that sounds slightly Polovistian, and is extremely memorable. A fascinating piece that rightly won Liszt's admiration in its day.
The Second is much more well known, but Ashkenazy manages to make it sound new, fresh, and exciting. The opening theme of the first movement is the big test for me--it can sound pompous, melodramatic, or like a non-event rather than the exciting, dramatic theme that it is. Ashkenazy really lets it rip, not taking it too fast (as many do), but letting it breathe and resonate. It sounds rich and portentous--like the opening of an ancient Russian epic. Every moment is beautifully calculated to my ears, and really comes off--not least of which the delicious Scherzo, possibly my favorite Borodin symphonic movement (which I remember a critic saying didn't fit in the symphony!).
In short, an amazing interpretation and assessment of Borodin's lyric and symphonic gifts. Even if you have many recordings of the work, add this one to the pile--you'll quickly forget most of them. Oh--and a great version of In the Steppes of Central Asia as well.』
(An excellent CD of the Ashkenazy fashion) 『I greatly admire Vladimir Ashkenazy, especially when it comes to Russian composers.Always fresh and dynamic. This CD is also of the same fashion. Great orchestral playing from the Royal Philharmonic, full of passion and vitality. The London/Decca recording is as always excellent giving extra life to the pieces. My favourite - the 1st Symphony. A must have Borodin CD.』
(Ashkenazy Conducts Borodin with Great Dignity) 『The transition from piano soloist to conductor has been a successful one for Vladimir Ashkenazy. His intuitive approach to internal phrasing brings out some of the more subtle qualities in these particular romantic symphonies. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra responds sensitively to his demands and the recorded sound from the EMI studios and London halls is excellent.
Other conductors may conduct both Symphony 1 and 2 with more drama than Ashkenazy commands, but the works bear their hearts on their sleeves and for once it is nice to hear the nuances of Borodin's writing rather than the romantic swoop that inspired Kismet! Also included on this album is a sensitive reading of 'In the Steppes of Central Asia', again performed with more clarity than other conductors obtain. For those without recordings of the Borodin symphonies this CD is a fine starting point. Grady Harp, September 05』
(Hot-blooded Russian Music) 『Alexander Borodin was part of a group called the Moguchaya Kuchka or the Mighty Handful, five Russian composers dedicated to raising the standards of Russian national classical music. The movement flouted Russian folk-music elements such as tunes, rhythms, modes, and instrumentations from their homeland. Borodin followed in this model, although he was the amateur of the group while pursuing his career as a scientist. This disk features some of his popular concert works: his Symphonies No. 1&2, as well as the famous symphonic poem, In the Steppes of Central Asia.
Russian exoticism permeates In the Steppes of Central Asia. The searing heat is depicted from beginning to end by using harmonics on the violins, and a traveling caravan is heard by a modal melody on English horn. As the caravan approaches and the viewer watches the military detail accompanying the caravan, a grand melody enters and the orchestra swells until they pass and fade away, all on a positive note, leaving only the sounds of the desert. A very colorful miniature. The First Symphony is often called Borodin's "Eroica" because of the similar orchestra hits from Beethoven's Third Symphony. In four movements, the first and last movements have great energy and vigor. Both contain an almost jazzy syncopated melody and/or accompaniment, often reminding me of Gershwin, while the rhythmic vitality is indicative of Copland. The colors, however, are obviously Russian, also seen in the fleet-footed scherzo of the second movement. It has a fantastical feeling with great light writing across the orchestra sections; the trio section counters with a Romantic sweep before the return of the opening whimsy. A quintal chord stacking opens the Andante third movement, before a yearning and emotional cello romance begins; quick ornamentations and a simple melody give a folk sound, and when the full ensemble takes over, the colors come alive. The final movement seems off-kilter in its second section, but a heroic mood brings the work to a close.
Borodin's Second Symphony tries to recall the chivalry of his Russian ancestors, and it is apparent from the beginning; a bold unison melody, all down-bowings, seems elemental and angry. A more pleasant "B" section is more playful, but the powerful strings and brass overpower from the forcefulness of the opening. The tragedy of the first movement is carried over onto the first chord of the second movement, but is soon quelled by a zippy scherzo in major with quick repeated brass notes, not to mention the romantic warmth of the trio section and the eventual return of the fast scherzo. The wonderfully beautiful opening of the third movement andante for solo horn, harp, and strings is romantically breathtaking, an emotional calm before the ambiguous sounding and crabby second section. The final movement's Copland-esque rhythmic vitality is inherently good-natured, innocent, and fun; despite a brief moody, medieval jaunt, a rollicking good time is had through the end of the symphony; certainly some of the best and most exciting parts Russian literature exist in this movement.
The music is colorful and exciting, and the energized feeling is brought out by Vladimir Ashkenazy and the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra. While they are not perfect here, they passionately perform this Russian music and dig in with articulation and musicality. Ashkenazy, well-known as a pianist, has an early conducting attempt here, and a successful one at that. The London sound is full and dynamic, aiding the truly red-blooded performances. At 70 minutes, interesting nationalistic music and Borodin's famous symphonic works are brought to life. An excellent buy if you can find it.』
『VHS』 タイトル『 World Music and Dance: India 1, South Asia I (JVC Video Anthology) (Volume 11) >
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price：
JVC Victor
『11-1 Bharata natyam - classical dance: A devotional dance to Shiva
11-2 Kathakall - dance-drama: "Dryodanavadham" from theMahabharata
11-3 Manipuri - classical dance: "Vasanta Ras" ("Circular dance of spring")
11-4 Kathak - classical dance: "Panchavati-varnam" (Rama and Sita in the forest -from the Ramayana)11-5 Folk dance from Manipur: "Thougal jagoi" (Prayer for a rich harvest)
11-6 Dhol cholam - drum dance from Manipur
11-7 Kathak - classical dance: "Tarana"』 タイトル『 World Music and Dance: Indonesia 1, Southeast Asia IV (JVC Video Anthology) (Volume 9) >
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price：$33.58
JVC Victor
『9-1 Gamelan - instrument ensemble: "Sekar jupun"
9-2 Pendet - devotional dance
9-3 Baris - warrior's dance drill
9-4 Legong keraton - court dance
9-5 Kebyar trompong - seated dance with gong set
9-6 Calonarang - dance-drama』 タイトル『 Unique Home Improvements - 84" Japanese Design Shoji Interior Sliding Double Door Kit - Honey >
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Oriental Furniture
『Sturdy, durable, top quality wood doors, each 36" wide, with frame kit including top and bottom notched wood rails, fiber reinforced, hardened paper shades. Note that lattice is on ONE SIDE ONLY, recommended for interior use. Double sided also available. Ships in 48hrs from Massachusetts via FedEx Freight - Expedited Delivery Available』 タイトル『 Titan Tool Standard Size Ratchet Combo- 3/8" and 1/2" >
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タイトル『 Meltemi Asia Flush Mount >
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price：
Meltemi
『Meltemi Sleek and simple can easily characterize the perfection that is the Asia flush mount. This light fixture's superior artistry is evident through its triplex opal white blown glass. What makes this flush mount incomparable, as well as the Meltemi collection as a whole, is that the blown glass is produced exclusively by traditional craft techniques. Its thickness, color and finish are subject to variation, a feature making each piece unique. Expand your modern home decor with the Asia flush mount, and you will be left with distinguished uniform lighting. Learn more about The Asia Flush Mount below: FEATURES | SPECIFICATIONS FEATURES: -Asia Collection -Flush mount -Available in opal white glass -Triplex blown glass -White metal parts -White epoxy painted body -Available in incandescent and fluorescent light bulbs -Available in small and large size options -Glass held by spring clips Back to top SPECIFICATIONS: -Can be mounted to standard 4" octagonal junction box -Small incandescent accommodates (1) 75 watt E26 bulb (not included) -Small fluorescent accommodates (1) 13 watt Gx23-2 bulb (not included) -Large incandescent accommodates (2) 60 watt E26 bulbs (not included) -Large fluorescent accommodates (2) 18 watt G24-q2 bulbs (not included) -Large fluorescent accommodates (2) 26 watt G24-q3 bulbs (not included) -Overall dimensions, small: 4" H X 12"Dia -Overall dimensions, large: 4.33"H X 16"Dia Specifications Specifications Back to top Bulb Type/Size/wattage: Electronic Fluorescent/ 16" x 4.3"/18w』 タイトル『 Bellydance Superstars >
『 Bellydance Superstars >
『 Bellydance Superstars Live in Paris at the Folies Bergere >
『 Bellydance Superstars Live in Paris at the Folies Bergere >
『 Bellydance Superstars - Solos Monte Carlo >
『 Bellydance Superstars - Solos Monte Carlo >
『 Bellydance Superstars 1 >
『 Bellydance Superstars 1 >
『 Rachel Brice: Bellydance Arms and Posture >
『 Rachel Brice: Bellydance Arms and Posture >
『 Tribal Fusion - Yoga Isolations&Drills for Bellydance >
price：$1.99
Ark 21
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Heavenly....) 『No words can describe how I feel everytime I watch bellydance superstars. Their the best!!! I've seen other bellydance dvd but nothing compares to the bellydance superstars......』
(The Greatest Bellydancers In The World) 『This debut DVD of the world-famous bellydance troupe features your favorite dancers, including Suhaila Salimpour, Rachel Brice, Amar Gamal and Dondi Dahlin. I especially loved Dondi's bellydance tribute to the late Marylin Monroe. Their bios and special features were also included in the DVD. I will be looking forward to future Bellydance Superstars DVD releases.』
(Enjoyable) 『I enjoyed this dvd for the most part.I didn't care for some of the camera angles,I don't think all of that moving around the dances was necessary.When Rachel was doing her first number,some of the camera angles were awful.Because of her subtle moves and belly rolls you sometimes missed them because the camera was over her head or showing her back.I didn't care for Suhaila's dances...I know she can do better than that.I love Jillina,one of my favorite dances to watch,Rania has performed better also.Ansuya was great,I have never seen her before.Amar and Sonia,lovely beautiful moves.Tamalyn was very good,I like the first dance with a Spanish flair to it.I don't regret buying the dvd and I will watch it many times,and buy other 'Bellydance Superstars' dvd's in the future』
(Smokin' hot women) 『These women are hot as firecrackers. Ansya, Sonia, Rachel Brice&Riana lead the way. Also live in Paris at the follies is smokin' I have been a Bellydance superstar fan ever since I went nearly crazy with desire seeing them on McEnroe several years ago. Every dvd they make gets me so excited. Rachel brice solo dvd's are also very worth while. Before I got married I spent many nights setting the dvd player on repeat play of a round robin of Ansya, Sonia, and Rachel Brice segments as I blasted off with a bowl of prime Ganja. My wife frowns on such activity so that is in my past.』
(So much fun to watch) 『This dvd is great if you are a belly dancer, a student dancer or just like to watch great performances. I have seen this dvd a few times already and showed it to all my friends and we all love it.』 『Studio: Uni Dist Corp (music) Release Date: 03/02/2004』
price：$3.00
Strand Releasing
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Beautiful meditative film from Thailand... Fine DVD from Strand) 『This was a pleasure to watch. Quite unlike anything I've seen before. It is an impressionistic film, filled with Buddhist ideas and dwelling on several metaphysical concepts; on the cyclical nature of life, of time, of history; on the duality of reality and of the male and female halves of creation. There is no actual story or plot. The film is split into two halves. Each half is a reflection of the other with slight alterations. Reality viewed through the Looking Glass. It isn't a film that tells you things. It seeks to provoke thought, reflection, meditation and perhaps in the end a better understanding of life.
Both halves centre around medical staff working in Thailand. The first half is set in the near past, roughly 20-30 years ago. In a rural district hospital. The second half takes place in present day Thailand in a spanking new multi-story hospital in Bangkok. The actors are the same in both halves and they play roughly the same characters with the same names but in different settings.
In the first half, the lady doctor, Dr. Toey, interviews a male intern Dr. Nohng coming over from the army to work in the civilian sector. She is also dogged by a shy soldier who is besotted with her. Even as she turns him down, she remembers an earlier relationship with a handsome young Orchid Farmer whom she herself was attracted to but who was similarly interested in someone else. Cycles of unrequited love, never-ending. Meanwhile, the hospital's resident dentist croons Thai country ballads to his patients in an airy treatment room surrounded by banana palms and sunlight. In his free time, he performs at the local open air concerts. It is a bucolic setting filled with nostalgia for the recent past. The entire first half is filled with the sound of birds, crickets, rustling leaves and gently flowing water.
The second half again begins with the lady doctor, also called Dr. Toey, interviewing Dr. Nohng the army doctor who is coming over to work in the hospital. Unlike in the first half where he confesses to a fear of blood, Dr. Nohng is now a haematologist (blood specialist). The second half focuses more on Nohng's love life. Here love is reciprocated. He has a much more intimate relationship with his executive girlfriend who also wants him to move out with her to a less bustling city, out in the country, near the beach. The dentist no longer sings country ballads. He works in a sterile white and cold facility somewhere in the bowels of the modern city hospital. He spends his free time as an aerobics instructor. The soundscape here is sterile, filled with the mechanical hum of electrical appliances and soulless machines. Gentle Thai country ballads have given way to loud thumping rock music.
All throughout though, we see the mainstays of Thai society. Saffron robed monks coming to hospital for treatment. Always smiling and trailing their aura of peace. Young conscript soldiers dressed in plain green fatigues in the first half are replaced by young conscripts in newer jungle camouflage in the second. Hard to tell apart. Things change and yet things stay the same. Statues of the Buddha are everywhere. As are statues of the beloved King - regarded by practically all Thais as the embodiment of the ideal Buddhist King. Holdovers from the ancient past still remain. Even in medical practice. Senior doctors practise "Chakra Healing" without batting an eyelid even as they interpret CT-scans amidst all the paraphernalia of modern medicine. By using the same actors, and characters with the same names, in both halves, Director Apichatpong Weerasethakul also highlights how no matter how times and situations may change the people will always remain the same.
In both halves we also hear discussions on reincarnation. The concept may be foreign to many westerners but the discussions raise universal themes - how to heal relationships sundered by death; how to make peace with the past; given a chance to be reborn, and a choice of incarnations, which would be preferable? In this world, would it be better to be born male or female, rich or poor, human or animal? It is a simple film and for many a film about nothing at all. Yet it is the richest film I have seen in ages.
The film is in Thai. My only gripe with this DVD is that the English subtitles are permanently burnt onto the print and cannot be turned off. They are distracting, especially on rewatching. Otherwise it's a fine transfer from Strand in 1.78:1 widescreen (enhanced for widescreen TV).』
(impressionistic art film) 『It's important to point out that the films of Apichatpong Weerasethakul are clearly an acquired taste. This Thai director makes movies that bear only a passing resemblance to the kind of narrative-laced dramas with which audiences in the West are most comfortable and familiar. His works reflect a Buddhist philosophy of deep inner reflection and unhurried contemplation of the moment - and, thus, they demand patience and an open mind from the viewer. But those willing to sample the strange exotic brew that is "Syndromes and a Century" (the title itself is enigmatic) will find ample rewards in the consumption.
There's little point in trying to explain what "Syndromes and a Century" is "about," since it serves no purpose to think of a Weerasethakul film in such terms. As a largely impressionistic work, the movie is more concerned with mood, feeling and setting than it is with conventional drama. Watching a Weerasethakul film is a bit like trying to solve a puzzle for which very few clues are provided. The "story," such as it is, involves two doctors - a woman working in a rural clinic and a man working in a big-city hospital - and their various encounters with patients, lovers and colleagues. We're told that the story was inspired by the romance of Weerasethakul's parents, though the obscurity of its presentation renders that explanation virtually meaningless. Often, an earlier scene is enacted a second time, though in an entirely different setting and from an opposing angle. This leads to even more confusion on the part of the viewer.
But it is style, rather than plot, that is of primary importance here. "Syndromes and a Century" is comprised almost entirely of beautifully composed and rigorously sustained medium and long shots, with few close-ups, very little camera movement and only minimal editing within scenes. Thus, even though we may not always understand fully what is going on, we are lulled into the movie by the seductive, hypnotic rhythms and style of the filmmaking.
"Syndromes and a Century" is not as compelling as Weerasethakul's previous film, the lushly transcendent and utterly spellbinding "Tropical Malady," but it should definitely appeal to anyone with a taste for the enigmatic, the exotic and the abstract.』
(Subtle and unusual but gripping exploration of memory and love and the difference a few decades can make) 『Although he studied filmmaking in the United States, Thai filmmaker Apichatpong Weerasethakul seems almost to reinvent cinema with each new film. There is something very refreshing about the contemplative style of camera work and the associative approach to editing, an approach that feels like it doesn't belong to the standard lineages of cinematic technique, but doesn't feel like incompetence either -- it just feels like something very different from what one is used to. His approach in this film is not so much to tell a story as to evoke a memory (if you saw this film without knowing that it is based loosely on his recollection of what his parents told him about how they got together, it would still feel more like layers of memory than a present day unfolding). Loosely, you could say that the story is about (1) two people (the director's parents) who met in a hospital and got together, a few decades ago; and (2) how their connection is difficult to reconcile with modern day practices, that these two would not be likely to connect now. But there is much more to the film than this outline suggests -- it is also a meditation on the place of religion and religious practice in Thailand a few decades ago versus today (dialogue that made sense a few decades ago feels like a joke today; practices once believed in and revered are now, at best, thought of as techniques; aerobics replaces yoga; shrines to the Buddha are replaced by statues of military leaders, etc.); it is also an exploration of sound and how sound reveals places and the emptiness of the sound that occupies modernized buildings; it is also a reflection on filmmaking itself, that has non-actors who make clear that they are non-actors, and even refer offscreen to their awkwardness on screen. It is a densely layered film, with a lot going on that is not easily summarizable in terms of an overarching theme or narrative -- a fascinating film, that nevertheless requires a good deal of patience and reflection, not for those with short attention spans.』
(Serene Magic) 『"Syndromes and a Century"
Serene Magic
Amos Lassen
Blurring past and present, "Syndromes and a Century" (Strand Releasing) by Thai director Apichatpong Weerasethakul is a visually beautiful movie that carefully explores the subjectivity of memory. The director recollects his parents, both of whom were doctors and he looks at their lives before they fell in love. He looks at their emotions and examines their feelings. The movie is made up of two parts. In the first part, Dr. Toey, a woman, interviews Dr. Nohng, who wants to work in the rural hospital where the scene is set. The questioning is amusing and playful and the entire film is presented as a fragmented dream--things start suddenly and there is no resolution making the movie a bit difficult to understand. It constantly shifts between the surreal and the real. It is impressionistic and disorienting and composed of scenes which center on different hospitals and focuses on couples, job interviews, romance and patients. This may seem annoying but everything is gentle, serene, evocative and subtle. The director welds image and sound together and the movie, while cryptic at times, numbs the senses. It jars gently and narrative is left on the side of imagery and gives us cinematic deconstruction that is sublime to watch. Here is cinema elevated to art and the impact of the film makes one shudder. The movie is dazzling to the eye and awakens the viewer with its lush cinema photography. There is a sense of unease which is gorgeous and the story has no beginning and no end--it is a series of snippets which convey memory and feeling. The camera seems to remember what we have forgotten and the language of film is used completely. It is human as it recognizes that which cannot be explained. 』 『Studio: Strand Releasing Release Date: 01/15/2008 Rating: Ur』
price：$24.95
TravelVideoStore.com
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (The Good, Bad and Interesting) 『An interesting travel dvd with a date that is only a couple of years old...however, much of the actual footage appears substantially older which is the primary reaason this received a four star rating.
The video is informative and does a nice job explaining the major areas of Israel as well as potential areas of interest from a Jewish, Christian and Muslim perspective. The Christian aspect seemed to be a bit longer than the others but in all likelihood it seems due to the fact there are a LOT of churches, memorials for every place a saint or other christian persona reportedly walked, talked or stopped along the way. In any event, the video also shows the variation of the land itself and dispels many misconceptions especially in regard to modern day "communes".
One thing I did not especially like, in addition to the use of seemingly dated footage here and there, was the reference to terrorism, violence and wars. While Israel has certainly had its share of violence and terrorism, large numbers of people visit annually without incident and in fact, the majority of visitors never encounter the type of tragic events that make the news.
A few areas the video did not cover were health related issues...odd for a travel video to leave out although I suspect it is due to the relative safety of traveling throughout Israel. Still, water, illness, what vaccinations or lack thereof, eating from street vendors and all other medical information was completely lacking from the video....an imperative consideration for any traveler. Likewise, there was no mention of Visa for extended stay or if you can travel with only a Passport and for how long of a duration.
All in all a nice general introduction travel video perfect for general information, learning the geography, selecting some of the more popular destinations etc but don't expect the nitty gritty details from this one.』 『Israel Today! Filmed and produced by Fran&Brooke ReidelbergerScripted and narrated by Fran Reidelberger Some people say Israel is a land as venerable as the bible and as vibrant as today's newspaper headlines. Accorded formal nation status in 1948, Israel is certainly a part of the world that has known uncommon turmoil for over 2,000 years -- with alternate periods of calm and violence -- and appears headed for more of the same. Filmmakers Fran and Brooke Reidelberger traveled the country from top to bottom on two working trips in 2000 and 2001. Their "Israel Today!" is a timely, new look at this tiny but vitally important place. The film was produced and the show is presented with a hope for peace and prosperity, which the vast majority of people in the region desperately desire and richly deserve.
. TEL AVIV -- Israel's largest city with more than a million inhabitants and the country's largest resort with high rise hotels, fine restaurants, world class beach, sailing, ancient markets, internet cafes, modern universities, museums, gardens -- and traffic! Celebrate Independence Day and Memorial Day and visit nearby Jaffa.. HERZLIYYA -- Tour Israel's answer to California's Silicon Valley. Almost every high tech company in the world, including some born in Israel, operates in this rapidly growing town.. NETANYA -- Watch skilled artisans change rough diamonds into elegant jewelry at Netanya's National Diamond Center.. CAESAREA -- Walk in the footsteps of the conquering Romans and touch the ancient remains of their aqueducts and amphitheaters.. KIBBUTZIM -- Experience the laid back lifestyle of those who inhabit the kibbutz communities throughout Israel. Agriculture, education, the arts and religion are all part of the scene.. ARMAGEDDON -- Known alternately as Megiddo, this biblical site is where many people believe the final battle of civilization will be fought as the forces of "good" conquer the forces of "evil". . AKKO -- Besieged and influenced by everyone from the Visigoths to the Crusaders and beyond, this historic Arab town is a visual delight.. HAIFA -- See the country's second largest seaport, the Bahai faith's international headquarters, and Haifa's sculpture-laden Peace Park. Meet the person who created the sculptures.. DRUZE VILLAGE -- Admire the work of master weavers, meet the non-Muslim Arab inhabitants of Daliat-el-Carmel, and marvel at the beauty of a nearby nature reserve.. NAZARETH -- Visit the town where Jesus grew up and see Mary's Well, Basilica of the Annunciation, and Church of Jesus the Adolescent.. SEA OF GALILEE -- Sail on Israel's largest body of fresh water to visit some of Christianity's most important holy sites near Tiberias. . HULA VALLEY -- Learn about the conversion of a swamp into Israel's 10,000-acre "bread basket" and the reintroduction of once indigenous wildlife.. METULLA -- Proceed with caution in this exceptionally pretty but heavily patrolled northernmost town precariou』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Great Coffee) 『I first tried these coffees in Taiwan and brought back a case. They have replaced Starbuck's coffees for me.』 『Ginseng Coffee is the perfect energy drink for coffee lovers! Since ancient times Ginseng has been accepted as an effective source of natural herbal energy. Adding Ginseng to Coffee provides the prolonged supply of energy frequently associated with the use of coffee.
Ginseng Coffee has exquisite traditional flavors, a delightful exuberant aroma, and is easy to prepare.Enjoy it at home, at the office or any where you enjoy a good cup of coffee. Ginseng Coffee is a refreshing drink and a unique taste experience.Contents: 20 sachets X 0.7oz. Ginseng Coffee with Panax Ginseng has exquisite traditional flavor, a delightful exurberant aroma, and is easy to prepare. Enjoy it at home or office. Ginseng coffee is a refreshing drink and unique taste experience.
Direction: a Sachet for a cup. Pour in hot water and stir.』
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Franzus
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Item not as pictured) 『The accompanying photo of the product(s) and description would leave you to believe that you are receiving all of the adapters. In fact you are only getting the two prong european adapter and NOT the set.』 『Franzus NW-1C is an Individual Polarized Adapter Plug which adapt to most outlets found worldwide. For international use with dual voltage appliances or with electricity converters / transformers.』
Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (Dessert in a cup) 『We first tasted ginseng coffee on a vacation in Italy last year. Unable to find it in stores where we live, it finally dawned on me to check on Amazon. Gold Choice looked like a good choice, so I ordered three lbs as a Christmas gift for my husband. It arrived on time, and this instant coffee product tastes exactly as we remembered. Full bodied, rich flavor and aroma make it an absolutely delicious special treat. Good mail order service. We'll be ordering here again very soon. Highly recommended.』 『GC instant ginseng coffee is an unique blend of ginseng (panax-quinquefolins) coffee beans. Blended with non-dairy creamer and sugar in well adjusted ratio promises rich and robust aroma.
Ingredients: Instant coffee, ginseng extract, sugar and non-dairy creamer.
Net: 400 gr (20g x 20 sachet)
Product of Pulau pinang, Malaysia』
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Daron Worldwide Trading
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Cram Company
『A Physical Political Map of Asia shows the variety of land elevations on the continent A world locator inset map shows Asia's relative location to its neighbors on the globe Markable Five land elevations and two water depths shown Natural coloration Mounted on spring roller with backboard and end brackets See the entire Cram Company US/World/Continent Combination Maps Selection Come to BizChair.com for all your Maps and School Furniture needs!』 タイトル『 Red Metallic Shred >
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Picador
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (A beautifully wrought return to one's complicated past) 『This book embraces so many themes, so delicately, wrenchingly and compassionately. The center plot is a return to Vietnam by a young Vietnamese American which his family fled years ago to live in the United States. However, it is far beyond cross-cultural travelogue; it inhabits the American as well as the Asian psyche with such scary acuity, and takes us into an inner landscape where few can go....without this author as guide. The prose is elegant and luminous; the situations tragic, comic, ludicrous; terrifying. The tone I felt was one of battle fatigue but transcended by unrelenting steel: this one was meant to survive and to tell it all.....』
(Catfish and Mandala) 『This book is about a Vietnamese-American man looking for his identity in his homeland. Like many Vietnamese who were children when South Viet Nam fell to the communist in 1975, Mr. Pham's family fled to America where he grew up straddling two cultures. While his writing about biking though Viet-Nam is witty, observational, and realistic, I somehow felt sadden for him because of his Viet-kieu's experience, a terminology used for expats. Over all his story made many generalizations about a very complex and exciting country. I am too a Viet-kieu. What I found is a country full of eager young optimistic people wanting a better life for themselves, their families, sometimes - for better or worse - at any price. Yes, there are poverty and corruption, but there also exist the dignity and quiet grace of a peasant woman who gets up at crack of dawn, earning a meager wage for the day to feed her family because it's her duty. Mr. Pham chose to go back to America with his ''privileges'' and his ''opportunity'' still at a lost for his identity. Readers should not accept Mr. Pham's experience as those of the other Viet-kieu's in Viet Nam.
M. Vo』
(Andrew's website is at www.andrewxpham.com, other info) 『Andrew X. Pham's other works and notables:
* Pham, Andrew X. The Eaves of Heaven: A Life in Three Wars. This title will be released on June 3, 2008.. ISBN 030738120X.
As translator:
* ng Thùy Trâm. Last Night I Dreamed of Peace: The Diary of Dang Thuy Tram. ISBN 0307347370.
Notables: Kiriyama Prize, Whiting Writer Award, QPB Nonfiction Prize, Guardian Shortlist Finalist, NY Times Notable Book of the Year, Oregon Literature Prize.
Andrew X. Pham's website is at www.andrewxpham.com
』
(a random and beautiful encounter) 『i was travelling alone in Lhasa, Tibet and found this book in Makye Ame restaurant. i started reading and couldn't put it down. it gave me true enjoyable solitude on my lonely journey. loved it. i spent the last two days reading it in that restaurant. ordered a copy from Amazon last week and i can't wait to finish it. my heartfelt thanks to Mr Pham!』
(. . arriving at the place where you started. . .and knowing it for the first time) 『 `I am a mover of betweens' writes Andrew X.Pham. . . `I slip among classifications, like water in cupped palms.' And in his award winning Catfish and Mandala he takes his readers into those `betweens' with him Viet-kieu, `foreign' Vietnamese, Pham sets out from San Francisco on his rickety 18 speed bicycle riding the Pacific Rim, first up the coast to Seattle, then through Japan, and finally arriving in Ho Chi Minh City from where he begins his odyssey through Vietnam, seeking to understand his relationship to the country of his birth, and the people, and his culture.
The ride he takes us on becomes, for the reader, as spiritual as it is physical. We feel every bump in the road, we push up the hills, we are cold, wet, hungry, ambivalent at times, and we suffer from chronic dysentery. Pham meets people who reject him, who taunt him, and those who, often after initial distrust, befriend him for part of the journey. While he is `pedaling and pushing' alone to Hanoi and back , on a journey everyone advises him is too dangerous, the narrative ebbs and flows through his childhood, through the escape on the boat, through the struggles of his family.
Pham moves comfortably from the specific, the particular, like his recollections of Scarface, Bugsy, Redeye, or Bagman and Mechanic, or the roasting ears of corn dripping with pork fat and scallions, to the philosophic - and then the poetic. It is little surprise he has been linked to writers like Thoreau, Kerouac, Steinback.. . I might add William Carlos Williams,T.S.Eliot or Carl Sandburg. He speaks at once of Vietnam and of his uncertain place there and of the US- and in so doing speaks to all of us who now count among the millions who have left homelands and no longer fully understand what home is, and who `move between.'
By the end of Pham's journey we begin to understand what that is, and value it. 』 『A great memoirist can burnish even an ordinary childhood into something bright--see, for instance, Annie Dillard'sAn American Childhood. So what about a really good writer with access to a dramatic and little-documented story? This is the case withCatfish and Mandala, Vietnamese American Andrew X. Pham's captivating first book, which delves fearlessly into questions of home, family, and identity. The son of Vietnamese parents who suffered terribly during the Vietnam War and brought their family to America when he was 10, Pham, on the cusp of his 30s, defied his parents' conservative hopes for him and his engineering career by becoming a poorly paid freelance writer. After the suicide of his sister, he set off on an even riskier path to travel some of the world on his bicycle. In the grueling, enlightening year that followed, he pedaled through Mexico, the American West Coast, Japan, and finally his far-off first land, Vietnam.
The story, with some of a mandala's repeated symbolic motifs, works on several levels at once. It is an exploration into the meaning of home, a descriptive travelogue, and an intimate look at the Vietnamese immigrant experience. There are beautifully illuminated flashbacks to the experience of fleeing Vietnam and to an earlier, more innocent childhood. While Pham's stern father, a survivor of Vietcong death camps, regrets that Pham has not been a respectful Vietnamese son, he also reveals that he wishes he himself had been more "American" for his kids, that he had "taken [them] camping."Catfish and Mandalais a book of double-edged truths, and it would make a fascinating study even in less able hands. In those of the adventurous, unsentimental Pham, it is an irresistible story.--Maria Dolan』
『Winner of the Kiriyama Pacific Rim Book Prize ANew York TimesNotable Book of the Year Winner of the Whiting Writers' Award ASeattle Post-IntelligencerBest Book of the Year
Catfish and Mandalais the story of an American odysseyâa solo bicycle voyage around the Pacific Rim to Vietnamâmade by a young Vietnamese-American man in pursuit of both his adopted homeland and his forsaken fatherland.
Andrew X. Pham was born in Vietnam and raised in California. His father had been a POW of the Vietcong; his family came to America as "boat people." Following the suicide of his sister, Pham quit his job, sold all of his possessions, and embarked on a year-long bicycle journey that took him through the Mexican desert, around a thousand-mile loop from Narita to Kyoto in Japan; and, after five months and 2,357 miles, to Saigon, where he finds "nothing familiar in the bombed-out darkness." In Vietnam, he's taken for Japanese or Korean by his countrymen, except, of course, by his relatives, who doubt that as a Vietnamese he has the stamina to complete his journey ("Only Westerners can do it"); and in the United States he's considered anything but American. A vibrant, picaresque memoir written with narrative flair and an eye-opening sense of adventure,Catfish and Mandalais an unforgettable search for cultural identity. 』
price：$8.50
Lonely Planet
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (A Great Guide to South India) 『This product was a tremendous help when I was trying to plan my trips in South India. It does a great job of not only giving maps and historical information of a particular area, but it also recommnends restaurants and hotel accomodations, which is always extremely helpful when you find yourself in an unknown place as a foreignor! I would definitlely recommend this book for both first time travelers and the travel veterans.』
(Sufficient info and good ideas for trips) 『The guidebook does not include all the options or highlights of places but it has sufficient information for your first or second time visit. Very useful opening times and price guidelines! ...In fact I found myself returning to South India many times after the first review of this book. Even though these are always business trips I try to get the most out of them spending weekends in the more or less touristic places. Thanks to LP I've even guided some Indians around Chennai and Mumbai! Try out bird sanctuaries or Gingee Forts for example - you'll be surprised by the fact there are places in India charming though not overcrowded (and not located in Himalaya). The book does a pretty good job in this field. After a while you'll need to search for some more info on the web or in local resources however LP always provides with good ideas and directions for exploring.』
(so far i am pleased) 『i am on my way to India so i hope this book will be thorough but i use lonely planet books all the time to travel and i travel alot.』
(Good, well balanced coverage of the region) 『This book proved helpful on my recent biycle tour of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh. It's one of Lonely Planet's better guidebooks, however some sights suffer from rushed research. For example, the fort at Gingee--one of India's best--has three sections, but the authors failed to mention the most spectacular of the three. The authors should have mentioned Suchindram Temple, just north of Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu; the beautiful stone temple is famous for its musical columns and 6-meter-tall statue of the monkey god Hanuman. I found the book weak on off-the-beaten-path destinations. I would have liked more information on culture--places to visit and background; if this is your main interest, I recommend that you also check out the Rough Guide edition on South India.』
(Another strong title from Lonely Planet) 『I ventured to South India, Bombay and Goa, last January, and this book never left my side. As a first-time visitor to the country, I was nervous at first, but the information found in this book helped me to prepare adequately for the trip and navigate my way through this often confusing (but always amazing) country. The guide caters to travelers on a variety of budgets, and offers tips for escaping the white-washed tourist trail to really get a taste of local culture. I would recommend ordering a copy a couple months before leaving- there is much to peruse in the book and region, and it will help you to plan out what you want to see, what you need to pack, and how to get by when the culture shock is hitting hard.』 『South India is distinct from the north and Lonely Planet knows how. We've explored the lush waterways of Kerala, bartered in Mumbai's bazaars, taken tea in charming hill stations and sampled seafood in Goa's beach shacks. Of these, we've picked only the best and our 5th edition takes you to them.
Lonely Planet guides are written by experts who get to the heart of every destination they visit. This fully updated edition is packed with accurate, practical and honest advice, designed to give you the information you need to make the most of your trip.
In This Guide:
Spicy full-color section reveals the tastiest local delicacies Exclusive itineraries guide you to the top temples, beaches and more Green Index helps you tread lightly 』
price：$7.95
Streetwise Maps
Usually ships in 24 hours Core2Duoノートレビュー 's review (An absolute must-have in Jerusalem) 『We took this everywhere. Well laminated, easily folded, clear and accurate. Take it if you are going to spend more than 3 days in this great city and have a wonderful time.』
(Old City Section very helpful) 『We just returned from 2 weeks in Israel. We took this map with us. The Old City can seem very confusing due to its small streets and closeness. Using the map, I always knew where I was, and even used it to walk out the Damascus gate to our hotel, about 3/4 mile away.』
(Wonderful Map of Jerusalem) 『This is a wonderful map for use in touring Jerusalem. Scale is right and detail is excellent. Highly recommended.』
(Hands down, the best compact pocket map of Jerusalem!) 『I've been in Jerusalem for one month from the states and this map is the one to get if you want to easily plot your location and were you want to go.....I have three other classic style maps.......the laminated streetwise map is the one I reach for when I walk out the door. It will fit in the back pocket of my Levi's and it doesn't get trashed, ripped, or wrinkled. My expat colleagues here all ask me where I got my map.........they all would like one too』
(Revised Streetwise Jerusalem Map) 『I have been waiting for this updated version to come out for years. Now the Jerusalem Zoo, among other important sites, can be found with ease. These are the best travel maps I have ever used.』 『Folded, laminated, indexed, street map of Jerusalem, showing all streets, parks, and railways at a scale of 1:17,000. Legend includes cultural sites, hotels, places of interest, public transportation routes, and more. Also includes inset for the Old City. Legend is in English.』
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