I’ve never been a poster person, but today is a BIG exception <3

But yesterday at Venice Piazza for the 2AM Meet and Greet, there was a pleasant surprise. There was one familiar face I never thought I’d see… Dennis, a former mentor and friend from my first job. ^^

He started blogging his addiction to Kpop recently, which is really really great. I kinda envy how he has time to do it. Aah. If only I had the luxury and dedication too! Anyways, here’s his wonderful account of yesterday’s events. <3

Friend, till the next Kpop idol visit!

I still find it hard to believe — after seeing him for the first time at Roundtable Plus on KBS World, and following him religiously on Star Golden Bell and Music Bank, I finally got to watch him and his 2AM bandmates perform live at Venice Piazza last night and see them up close for the meet and greet session.

What better way to wrap up my birth month than this? <3

Image credits: as tagged

The “slam-bum” (slambook-album) concept will definitely appeal to fans because it’s LOADED with pictures. If I remember correctly, at least two or three pages were devoted for each member’s creative shots and trivia alone. And yes, there are still the group images to look forward to.

“Time For Love” has five tracks, two of which are the previously-released “Pink (Pag-ibig Na Kaya?)” and “Merry Christmas Na.” The remaining three are new, all-original songs that showcase more of 1:43′s talent.

Para Kang

Para kang panaginip na natupad
Eroplanong papel na lumilipad
Magic wand at kissing spell
Falling star sa wishing well
Para kang regalo tuwing Pasko
Swimming sa may beach tuwing Mayo
Lahat nagkatotoo pagdating mo

If I had heard this before I’d found out about 1:43, I would have mistaken 1:43 for an OPM rock band. This song is a litany of similes and metaphors pertaining to love, which makes it all the more romantic in an unconventional way. I love all the songs in the album, but this has got to be my favorite.

Sa Puso Ko’y Ikaw

Ikaw ang pangarap na ngayon ay natupad
Ako’y wala nang hahanapin pa
Salamat sa iyo
O mahal ko
Umasa kang hindi kita iiwan

The simple melody and earnest lyrics pierce straight through the yearning heart, making this song a very powerful ballad. For me, it’s the ultimate wedding vow, as while it’s very detailed, the sincerity is preserved. Any bride who walks down the aisle as this song is being played in the background will be deeply moved and misty-eyed.

Time For Love

When I look into your eyes
You make me realize
Love comes in perfect time

The vocal harmonization perfectly match the song’s upbeat melody. Although the lyrics occasionally speak of romantic love, the song generally poses as a gift from the boys to their loyal fans, who also call themselves Time4Love/T4Ls.

Another bonus from the album is that each track has a corresponding instrumental version too!

One thing that I really love about this album is that I can see a desire to cater to various musical tastes. And I think the group has succeeded in doing that, with their successful interpretation of each of the songs in the album. They were able to exhibit their versatility in singing, while maintaining a sound that’s distinctly 1:43.

For the “slam-bum” concept and the 10 tracks that go with it, P250 seems actually worth it. Moreover, if you buy it at their album launch this afternoon at SM Bacoor, you also get to have it signed by all four members of 1:43.

Image credits: mrblinditem @ blogspot
Many many many thanks to Sir Chris Cahilig for giving me a chance to be part of the album preview. ^^

I’m not really a listener of that station, much more DJ Charlie’s slot, but I had lots of fun tuning in today! I got the impression the program they appeared in was very much like Boys’ Night Out. Pick-up lines galore, a handful of which were mildly suggestive (but I doubt if the listeners really minded it that much — I know for a fact that I didn’t ) My officemates, who weren’t fans, were sorely amused hearing their lively exchange of banters with the callers. I could be wrong, but for me, this definitely broadened their market from their existing fanbase of tween followers to a slightly older audience. Define versatility, anyone?

And don’t even get me started on their a cappella teaser of “PiNK”~

Epic, indeed.

Bitin ang two hours.

Who ever thought “tambay” could be this fun?

I’m happy for that person. <3

I just hope he’s happy too now that he got his wish…

I can only hope there would be more to come.

<3

Along with the heavy rain of white confetti, practically all ELFs were crying in unison. Including me.

Others might think the tribute was too much — he’s not dead, he’s just serving in the military, after all. To me though, the effects they used captured the essence perfectly. Kangin wasn’t with them physically, but he would always be with them in spirit, supporting the group in his own little way.

Kangin-ah, may the good Lord bless you always with good health, strong will, and good judgment. We’ll be standing on the edge of the earth, waiting for your return. <3

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video credits to ceedge132 @ YT

I don’t regret spending so much “just for a concert ticket” — I got to see Super Junior and TRAX perform live AND bond with my Kpop sisters at the same time.

I can only wish there will be an SS4 Manila too~<3