The Pop Exposé

New Invention

2009-11-03T06:49:00.000-08:00

There's this new invention I discovered. It's called an electric guitar. It has six musical strings and plugs into a contraption called an amplifier. I really like the way it sounds, I think I'm gonna get one.

I got my toothbrush and I got my Stratocaster

2009-10-21T19:27:00.000-07:00

For a 25th B-day present i got a 2008 Fender American Standard Stratocaser in Olympic White. I've always wanted a Stratocaster and now I have one fuck yeah. I remember as a 15 year old hanging out at my friend Derek's house (actually his parents house). And there i saw his dad's late 80s to early 90s dark red Fender Stratocaster with maple fingerboard. Whenever we were over there and his Dad wasn't looking, I'd always play with it. I don't know what it was but i like the way it sounded, the way it felt, and definitely the way it looked. I wanted one. Fast forward ten years and a dozen Frankenstein guitars later, I finally have a proper Stratocaster!

As with most mass produced guitars, I did proper set up after i got the guitar. Things like the string action. It was kinda too low and there was some string buzzing. I like my string action a little high anyways. Also, the neck was straight.. a little too straight, so I set some more relief to the neck. That's one of the features i really dig about the American Standards, the truss rod adjustment is at the headstock instead of at the heal where I would have to remove the pickgaurd and strings to get to it. Last, the nut was kind of muting the B-string and i was loosing a lot of sustain and volume. so all i did was take a steak knife and shaved a little more room on the string slot. Problem solved.

The guitar is really comfortable to play. As usual the neck has rolled edges with a satin back attached to the classic contour body. The new features are very vintage in nature which I really dig. The bridge saddles are no longer the block steel kind but the vintage bent steel type with the Fender name stamped on them. Fender says they did this because it gives a vintage tone which I'm sure it does, but probably also to save money since they can use the same type that are one their re-issues. Production cost or not I like the way the bent steel saddles look and sound. Also the set screws used to set the string action don't stick out as much so they don't dig into hand. One detail they added that strikes my fancy is the vintage style spaghetti logo on the headstock , they even added the "Original Contour Body" decal.

Even though these guitars are great right out of the box, they are great base instrument for modifications and personalization. Under the pickgaurd, you'll see that body is routed in a humbucker/single coil/

humbucker fashion instead of the usual S/S/S. This allows you to add humbuckers without having to cut

into body and devalue your instrument. My plan is to add new single coil pickups either in just the neck

position or all three. The stock pickups sound good but i just want a more classic vintage sound (late 50s early 60s).

I do like the way the Fender 57/62 stratocaster pickups sound, sparkly and warm. I heard them

a American Vintage 57 strat and was like i want these in my guitar. I would of just bought the 57 strat but it

was just out of my price range. Another pickup I'm considering is the seymour duncan SSL-1 or SSl-2.

I have a SSl-2 in a Fender Duo-Sonic, its a mellow but fat sounding pickup very balanced sounding. It has

flat pole pieces maybe that has something to do with it. The SSl-1 is the same but with staggered pole pieces.

Well I don't know what to do. I do know I want vintage sounding pick ups but can't decide which set.

Maybe I should of got the 57 reissue but then again it was a just outta my budget. SO i did the next best thing

and got a american standard to modify. Any suggestions?

Overall cool guitar. Later.

I'm a dad for the past six months

2009-10-16T22:35:00.001-07:00

Sleeping in is nothing but a fanasty now. Elbow deep in poopy. Fun but challenging.

Two new additions to the pedal board

2009-03-16T05:59:00.000-07:00

So I bought two new guitar pedals. I'm updating my rig and i decided that i needed a tremolo pedal and i overdrive (not a distortion pedal) pedal. First the tremolo pedal, i wanted to stay away from boss pedals because i need to try something different and those pedals sound like everyone else. I choose the electro harmonix Stereo Pulsar, although i don't use the stereo out, it gives me similar trem sounds as the tremolo on a fender amp. The controls are easy and the casing fits perfect on my pedal board. There's a Rate Knob, Depth Knob, Shape knob, and a Switch that lets you select between square and triangle waveforms. You can get some really cool surf trem out of this pedal. Watch out for junk tones though, which can happen when you set the parameters very extreme. Not much else to say, but i do give it 9/10. I did try to find the original Pulsar pedal which only had one output and was incased in a housing similar to the Big Muff pedal. If anyone can know where to get an original Electro Harmonix Pulsar, email me at nikyambao@yahoo.com. I really want to add the original to my collection.

Second I've added an Ibanez TS9 Tube Screamer Pedal. The thing about this pedal I like is that it isn't a screamer. It gives me a very warm, subtle, and genuine break up though my amp. I like putting my guitar through the tube screamer first and then through the Pulsar tremolo with the tube screamer set at 9 o'clock on the drive knob. The tone i get is super 50's vintage. Another thing about this pedal that is pretty bad ass, is the construction. This pedal is built like a tank. If you are looking for a distortion pedal, you're better off with a boss DS 1 or Big Muff, but those looking for a versatile overdrive check the Ibanez TS9.

9/10.

So I got the Tremolo and TS9 pedal, next on the list is a Reverb Pedal and either a EchoPlex or a Rolnad Space Echo.

Looking for that special one

2009-02-23T17:08:00.001-08:00

I'm on mission to find a new guitar. Thinking about American made Fender Stratocaster.

-- Post From My iPhone

Testing

2009-01-31T03:37:00.001-08:00

testing

Blogged with the Flock Browser

Lombardo Returns

2009-01-29T17:48:00.000-08:00

What's up kid's?
Obamamania baby! Get diagnosed with it!

To all the female fans out there,
Please reduce your mail to me to just letters...
The overflow of pictures, gifts, trinkets ....it's too much.
My mailman shot up my house yesterday out of frustration..but
thank you none the less!

I am going to talk about the thing on everybody's mind. You
know....the " Big Event". History being made in our lifetime!
I'm talking, of course , about the Jonas Brothers.

I don't know much about them, the brothers; but their influence
on today's youth is undeniable, so I decided to check them out at
the T- Dome. Great show! They started out, surprisingly, with
Neil Diamond's " September Morning" followed by a montage of
80's metal band Quiet Riot. This contrast added a pensive
moment to the screaming of the young girls. The rest of the songs
I've never heard before....accept for the anthem " Eighteen" by
Alice Cooper. ( Some innocent lady with demented parents has that
name.)

I got backstage to meet them after the show and they ran away scared.
Weird experience , but a great night.

* News quote of the week : MSNBC
" Even the seagulls must be amazed at the humanity." ( inauguration ).

* To remember: ' Simplicity is not the cummulation of true art, but the rudiment thereof.' -unknown

* Whats killing our kids in society??......soccer.

* Best method for picking up the ladies??...... accomplishment.

Peace in this hood,
Lombardo.

Band Of Bees!!!! a cool band I discovered.

2009-01-17T02:02:00.000-08:00

My friend, Gilbert showed me this band called A Band Of Bees. The album of there's entitled, Free The Bees, is fucking awesome!!! Its been a couple of years since I've heard an album that I got super excited about. They are a six peice from the UK where they are called The Bees. "Free The Bees" which is their 2nd album, was recorded at the famous Abbey Road Studios and has a very vintage 1960s' sound. If you really like The Kinks, The Byrds, or The Beatles, then you will more than likely dig The Bees. Out of all the Bands I see try to the "vintage" thing, The Bees sound pretty close to '67. Their song, "Chicken Payback", is the catchiest off the album possessing the same dance hall vibe as "Louie Louie". This is the first song I heard from The Bees and it quickly snatched my attention with lead singer Paul Butler's quirky lyrics and familiar rythm. The next little gem on the album is a song called, "This is the Land". In "This is The Land", you can hear vocal influences of The Byrds but with a rythm that sounds like it came from The Beatles album, "Revolver". Overall, "Free The Bees" is a diamond in the ruff and worth the price of admission. It's proof that bands can still do the "vintage" thing without sounding passé, ala The Strokes, The White Stripes, Jet, etc. which all suck ass. Do yourself a favor, turn on the time circuts and check out THE BEES.
3 1/2 out of 5.

Nik Yambao
The Pop Exposé

Thoughts on Apple's last Keynote at MacWorld.

2009-01-07T00:47:00.000-08:00

The Good: Phil Schiller, awesome at delivering keynotes. New features in iPhoto and iMovie as part of the new iLife 09 suite. New iWork 09 suite, although I don't own iWork or had the pleasure to use it. New online service called, iWork.com, another example of how software plus services is the future, share and collaberate with people on iWork doacuments. The new 17 inch MacBook Pro with a built in battery lasting up to 8 hours and 1000 charge cycles. I am one of the few people in the world who like the idea of built in non removable batteries in mobile devices, I get it why Apple insits on implementing it on their iPods, iPhones, MB Air, and now their MB Pro 17 inch though I can't tell you why I get it. Also, MB Pro 17 inch gets a anti glare display option. New iTunes features such as DRM free music, later in Spring three new price points for songs on iTunes, $0.69, $0.99, $1.29. My favorite anouncment at MacWorld 09, you can now download songs onto your iPhone 3G through the 3g signal, no longer do you have to be on a Wi-Fi network to do that. I always wondered why you couldn't do that in the first place, kinda of a no brainer.

The Bad. No new iMac or Mac mini, thats a bummer and I think its kinda offensive that Apple charges you over $1000 dollars for an iMac with a basic Core 2 duo processer and a Gig a ram! Rip Off!!!! $800 dollars for the same old Mac Mini and the fucker does not come with a KeyBoard or Mouse. Rip Off!!!! The only Mac they decided to upgrade (for now) is their most expensive laptop, expensive for us common folk. Please Apple give us a four core iMac for $1799 that seems more reasonable. No iPhone nano, but come on, that is never gonna happen and I personally think an iPhone nano is a dumb idea, so keep dreaming nano lovers. No Midrange Mac that isn't an iMac or doesn't cost $2799. The anti glare option on the new MacBook Pro 17 inch cost $50 (are you fucking kidding me?) and the anti glare option is only for the 17 inch MBP model, once again their most expensive portable (fucking elitists). No Steve at MacWorld, kinda sucks, although Phil is great at it. This is Apple's last Macworld Keynote but I can see why, It cost a lot of money for Apple (millions of dollars) to put on a Keynote at MacWorld trade shows. Trade shows arent the best option for a company as big as Apple to spread the word on new products. I hope the money they save by not showing up at MacWorld they use to make a new iMac and Mac Mini for the rest of us.

Closing. Good riddance, no more Apple at MacWorld now, but I don't think the majority of Apple fans will loose sleep over it. I guess the rest of us Apple users who dont have $3000 dollars to blow on a Mac have to wait for a beefier iMac and Mac Mini, although I perfer to use MacBooks. Who do you think will take Steve Jobs place as CEO when he retires because you know this years MacWorld is a sign of things to come in regards of Apple being "Job-less" (get it? no Steve Jobs) . Go to Apple.com to find out more shit about this years MacWorld. Oh yeah iWork.com, fucking great idea, I hope on future they make an iLife.com, where you can collaberate with others on your iPhoto projects and your music with Garageband. That would be the shit. The Pop Exposé.

Macworld

2009-01-05T18:55:00.001-08:00

Who's pumped for Macworld? I am

Mac Mini

2009-01-04T16:16:00.001-08:00

Rumor has it that a new Mac Mini will be released soon this month. It is rumored to have the same Nvidia chipset as the new MacBooks, an extra USB port, and firewire 800 but no 400. In addition to the standard dvi port a mini display port is also added. These are just rumors and we'll soon see the truth.

Beauty Dies EP by The Raveonettes

2009-01-04T01:54:00.000-08:00

In short EP is much better than the previous EP I reviewed, "Sometimes They Drop By". The four song collection sounds like early Raveonettes (Whip it On), which is my personal favorite. Their somewhat monotone boy/girl harmonies are addictive and lead me to believe that Sune Rose Wagner and Sharin Foo are last to living vampires on earth. The song, "Black/White" makes me feel like a dirty girl, which is oddly a good thing, and sets the tone for a voyeuristic night. The drum track on "The Thief", is a worthy departure from their commonly used surf drums and is drenched in overdriven reverb (like thats a surprise). Overall, Beauty Dies, makes a short tasty treat for any fan of the Danish duo. Much better then Sometimes They Drop By. 3 1/2 out of 5

5 am with Bo Diddley and the iPod Touch

2009-01-02T04:59:00.000-08:00

5 am- Chillin playing with new iPod touch listening to old Chris Pirillo rant about original iPhone and how much it sucks ass. Seriously if bought an original iPhone, you got completely ripped off!!! The 3G is a million times better.

MUSIC- Just downloaded Bo Diddley collection from the iTunes wi-fi store off the iPod touch and its frickin great!!! The self titled song "Bo Diddley" and "I'm a Man" are fantastic and give you an overall jist of the man Diddley. Not only is he a skillful guitar player that is very underrated, he's a very capable singer (Rolling Stone put in the top 100 singers of all time list). His music has a real home spun sound with sprinkles of blues and dashes of jazz. Listening to Bo Diddley is like taking a trip in a time machine, and finding yourself in an underground dancehall in 55'. After listening to the compilation I started to realize how many musicians are influenced by him let alone the genre of Rock and Roll. I give it 4 1/2 out of 5. If you have the means download it right now!!! You won't regret it. If you are a musician, there is a treasure chest of goodies that Bo Diddley has you can add to your repertoire. Get it!!!! Get it!!! I am a better person for discovering Bo Diddley.

Jim Morrison?

2008-12-30T20:25:00.001-08:00

Jim Morrison, American poet like all the T-shirts worn by stoned 10th graders say? Or drunken bafoon mediocre at best, like their parents say? You tell me. Nikyambao@gmail.com

What did everyone get for Christmas?

2008-12-27T02:09:00.000-08:00

With Christmas 08' in the bag, we at the Pop Exposé, being the good little Christians and Catholics we are, can't help but ask what did you get for Christmas? Did you get everything you wanted or were you a bad boy/girl and received a lump of coal? I (Nik) myself had a Merry Little Jesus' B-day and received a 16Gb iPod Touch and a Limited Edition Red XBOX 360 controller, both from my lovely girlfriend. Being a fan of the consumer electronic company , Apple, I was very pleased to get the iPod touch, which will go great with my MacBook and iPhone. The 2nd gen touch adds a volume rocker switch version 2.1 firmware and the new "Genius" iTunes feature which makes play lists based on your musical tastes and library content. Unlike the iPhone 3G the iPod touch is thinner and retains the chrome back like the 1st generation iPhone. All in all it is basically exactly like the iPhone but lacks the phone functions and the camera. Also, being 16GB I can now fit the rest of my music collection my iPhone couldn't hold. Enough about what I got, what did you get?

Lombardo on The Shadow People (or lack of)

2008-12-23T05:01:00.000-08:00

First time seeing Shadow People. Sweet!

I think I feel a blog coming on......

BLOG 122108

Dear World,
We have a problem. At a time where the people need all the assets we can get...culturally, morally, inspirationally, we must salvage one in particular. The Shadow People have broken up. The band performed their last show this year.....but I believe we must petition them to re-group. Im not talking about a reunion concert for charity, because..I don't like charity. But these guys are unique, and I never saw them play in person. Im sure there are fans of the band who want them to keep playing, they must let their voices be heard! If there is enough feedback, maybe they will get back together. Maybe there should be a charity fund put together to produce
a larger compilation of songs, because, after all; Im a big fan of charity.
Either way, lets get this band to renew their bond, and keep the SP going!

Mr. Lombardo
PS Gilbert; I still haven't gone to the donut shop.

Hey you fellow Auburnites

2008-12-18T20:10:00.000-08:00

If you are from the Slums of Auburn, Wa and have a Story to contribute to the PopExposé about your bizarre experiences in the town of Auburn, Washington, please e-mail them to nikyambao@gmail.com

Stories about meth binges, rednecks, grumpy old people, dumb cops, and U.F.O.s are all accepted.

Lombardo Returns with Slums of Auburn, Wa

2008-12-18T20:02:00.000-08:00

BLOG ENTRY 121708

Hey Peeps!
Yeah, you...( 1 of 3 )
Get ready for some serious blogging!

COPters flying over Aub. lately. 2 AM the other night ( morning ). I wake up and go outside and try to estimate the proximity of the fly-beam. As it gradually gets closer to me, I begin my old football warmups and stretches, in preparation for a takedown
in the street! Getting pumped up...." It's go time...It's go time " ; slap my own face numerous times and give a quick chant ," Not in my Yard on 3........One! Two! Three! 'Not in My....." Too late, Code 4 and Heli is leaving. Now I'm awake....

WEATHER REPORT- Bad. Oddly enough as I write this, literally hundreds of birds flying over my house due NORTH. Hey maybe next Weather report will be....Good.

TECH REVIEW- I recently got the new all in one Blackberry. I can text, record, phone, and even blog. It has GPS,maps,traffic. I play games, check weather and download. Also it heats the house, tells me who WILL call tomorrow, and can remotely microwave
food in half time of full oven. To my surprise, it can create an invisible shield around me, contact the Pentagon , and blow up any object in one mile range, through it's night vision scope. If I attach it to my dashboard, my vehicle immediately has capability to fly at a
NR of 2500 statute miles. It can produce a hologram of Jayne Mansfield in my living room and has lasers, just for show. Oh...it also can play my favorite tunes!

SPORTS UPDATE- Hey Futbol fans....New MLS team in Seattle. Drew Carey part owner.
That true fact is weirder than any other stuff on the blog.

MISC.-
~ Bally's health club on Aub wy N. Closed today -for good. Sign reads: " Buy 1 month membership, get 1 month free".
~ Good place to meet ladies?......Their house.
~ All plastic Christmas decorations in peoples yard should be run over, legally.
~ Weird fact....Mormons, Catholics, Jehovah's Witnesses....At least 2 of them are wrong.
~ Give a man a fish...he eats for a day; Teach a man to fish...he might eat for a day.
~ The whole Boxing or MMA debate....you can like both.
~ Fred Meyer is the New 7-11.

Thank you for your time.
Sr. Lombardo

Mobile Me?

2008-12-16T09:19:00.000-08:00

Well my three month trial of Apple's push e-mail service, Mobile Me, has ended. I must say despite all the bad press it has gotten during the summer, it actually served me well to my surprise. I like the fact that it synced my e-mail, contacts, calenders, and photos between my iPhone and my Mac. The "push" technology really came in handy, and although a year subscription cost $100 (pretty typical of Apple), I am very tempted to pay the fee. I add a contact to my phone it appears on my Mac when I get home, I add a calender date to my Mac it appears on my iPhone, not glitch to be had, and trust me I live and die by iCal! So do we recomend it? PopExpo says, "Yeah!" My free trial is over and I really miss it. Maybe I'll just sign up for another free trial. If you own a iPhone, it definently complements it.

-Nik

Why are we paying for xbox live still!

2008-12-14T04:40:00.001-08:00

Like many people I've been hooked on the new Call of Duty game for xbox 360. And like many "360" owners I have downloaded the new xbox firmware, or as Microsoft calls it, The "New Xbox Experience". Overall I like the new update and prefer it over the old one, although I wish there was a type to search feature (you still have to scroll down a list when you search for some thing) but other than that it's all good. The avatar feature is pretty Wii esque and apeals to a much younger crowd. But what really gets me is the advertising that has now found it's way into our gaming consoles, I guesss it was unevidible. But with all the new loot I'm sure microsoft is making,by selling advertising space on xbox live, why do we still have pay 50 bucks for a subscription then pay for content we download? I mean playstation 3s' online network is free and you basically do the samething as xbox live?
Maybe it's one of those Microsoft things I'll never understand (like always).

Thanksgiving with Lombardo

2008-11-29T04:06:00.000-08:00

THANKSGIVING BLOG

UPDATE!

We have a response to a blog entry!

I feel like Steve Martin in " The Jerk " when he finds his name in the phone book and says,
" I am somebody! A respondent named " heyjack" left a comment about having success in a band. The give-and-take element has brought this blog to new places!
In an effort to milk this new level we have attained, I will respond to the response!
Heyjack ( never,ever in an airport ), you make a good point about success. Drive and
determination propell groups to bankdom. There is some nuance in my rant that makes it
so our statements don't necessarily contradict, I think. Nevertheless you are our " first
responder" and therefore win our GRAND PRIZE! Two tickets to Nickleback at Key Arena!
( If heyjack is actually nik, you are disqualified.).

Happy Thanksgiving and
'Shalom in the Home'.

Mr. L.

Vh1 and Mtv Review by Lombardo

2008-11-29T04:00:00.000-08:00

BLOG 11-25-08

VH1 REVIEW

Rock of Love (my nickname in the 80's) entails a bunch of shows.
It is confusing.

First is something called "Chance at Love" ( my nickname in the 90's ).
The first thing I see is skanks conversing with two, high , rappers.
At this point Im not sure if the display on my cable is correct, but after
about 5 minutes I realize it is----couldn't watch it - made me physically ill.
Next is the Pickup Artist- Mysterey and Matador having finalists " teach" some
newbies about the 'Game'. Couldn't watch--- felt urge to strap explosives to my belt,
and detonate out in middle of my street.Then came Paris Hilton's " New BFF", I am perplexed at the irony, because I believe BFF is " Best Friend Forever". A " New" BFF indicates that there was a previous BF who, obviously didn'tlast F. After a few minutes ,wanted to joust sharp object into my own head.So I turned it off as well...depleting any chance at a legitimate review... but maybe saving a life.

Reporting nothing about VH1;
This has been Mr. Lombardo,
For the Pop Expose.

Call of duty World at War

2008-11-23T19:29:00.000-08:00

This version throws you back to the WWII theme but it is based of the same game engine as Modern Warfare. But a different development company. But the is truly bad ass and like most Xbox360 games, it really shines when played online. Bottom line, BUY IT NOW!!!

More to follow.

The Blue Man Group

2008-11-19T03:57:00.000-08:00

BLOG ENTRY MON. 11-17-08

BREAKING NEWS

As a corresondent for the PE, celebrity interviews are part of the job. The Vegas sensation " Blue Man Group" has taken their rockin' act on tour. I caught up with the performers during a recent tour stop in Seattle:

ME: " So guys, your on the road, how does it compare with Vegas?"

BMG: -

ME: " Has the act changed at all or are you doing what crowds have loved for years?"

BMG: -

ME: "Is it true that one of you is actually blue, due to a massive overdose of colloidal silver?

BMG: -

ME: " OK, Ive got to ask, when you first got together were there any other names swirling around; or do you have the same publicist as the ' Insane Clown Posse?'"

BMG: -

ME: " That was a joke."

BMG: -

ME: " Well I appreciate you guys spending time with us, anything you would like to say before we let you go?"

BMG - "YEAH, SHOUT OUT TO THE VENE AND MANDALAY-AND TO EVERYONE AT THE TI WHO GOT US STARTED......YEAH, YEAH AND EVERYONE OUT AT SPANISH HILLS AND THE LITTLE HONEY'S AT THE SPEARAMINT RHINO BABY! BELLAAAAAAAAAAGIIIIIIIIOOOOOO WHATS UP!"

Much Love,
Mr. Lombo

Lombardo's McRib Response.

2008-11-14T07:19:00.000-08:00

BLOG ENTRY 11 12 08

MUST.......HAVE.....................McRIBB..........

This is in response to my collegue Nik's recent situation. It seems that he saw a billboard for the new/old McRibb sandwich and was overtaken by it's effect. I think this may be just a result of McParanoia.
The conpiracy theories of the day have caused this. To think that the McExecutives at the corporations are trying to control us is McCrazy. This has been going on for a long time: The shooter on the grassy McKnoll - Elvis in the Witness Protection McProgram - McFreemasons-
All unsubstantiated! I have found no reason to believe there is a secret, poweful group McTrying to control the public! McPlease! Do you really think that the government is secretly holding aliens at Area Mc51? Until one of these McOrganizations is exposed, we will all be McVictims of our own McMinds!

Until next time-
TO ENSURE ORDER ACCURACY ,ITEMS WILL BE DISPLAYED ON SCREEN.....

Mr. Lom.

Slums of Auburn part 2

2008-11-12T21:36:00.000-08:00

Blog by Lombardo

BLOG ENTRY 111108

Possible answers to previous blog test question...

A. It was me.
B. It was Nik.
C. Spontaneous Human Combustion---- Perp. made it to my yard, and then was vaporized by one of science' s greatest mysteries; leaving no evidence of
remains as they were enveloped as a chariot of fire off my lawn.
Or....maybe
D. Suspect didn't run through neighbor's yard into mine, but ran through the school, jumped the fence into my yard, then ran through the neighbors.

Correct answer.....B.

BANDS

The PE examines projects by various bands...the music world is saturated with sameness today, so what can make a band stand out? As a musician myself I have thought of this alot. I have a few theories.....

First, if you are in a band to make music because you want to, you've already made it! Congratulations! No fan accumulation, or lack therof can take it away from you.

Second, if there is a desire for stardom, it will conflict with the first principle inevitably. How does this work then.....

Third, As with anything , talent (product) is the mitigating factor.

The first principle is not predicated on this. But the second, in conjunction with the first, is. In other words.... If you want to be a big band in the land you better be really,really good. Not just think your'e good and destined for marquee.....but be talented and dedicated to a higher level than anyone around you. How do you know if you are? Ask people who know. Not your groups of fans and friends, but those who REALLY know! Find them...they're out there. This might save people alot of frustration and/or give them proper direction.

Mr. L

The McRibb is Back!!!!

2008-11-11T23:22:00.000-08:00

Everywhere I drive I see them, billboards displaying the McDonald's McRib, their barbecue rib sandwich. I guess the road side advertising has made it's way into my sub-conscious, because one day when I was driving home and I mistakenly drove straight into a McDonald's drive through without thinking twice about it (I was trying to get home!). Then when I tried to order some chicken nuggets, my tongue would not let me say the words, "chicken nuggets", instead it forced my mouth to utter the words, "Give me the fucking McRib bitch", ok not the bitch part. After I receive my order, I rush home to consume this beast of a sandwich. I open the McRib box (because a sandwich of this proportion deserves a box) only to discover what looks like a piece of rubber doused in bbq sauce stuck between a sandwich roll. Not caring , I take a big ol bite of it and immediately regret my purchase. Once the McRib hit my taste buds, I automatically envisioned the mechanically separated pig parts being processed into a "edible" patty ready to wreak havoc on my colon. The sandwich was disgusting and my stomach turns every time I see those roadside advertisement.

Nik, The Pop Exposé.

The Slums of Auburn, Washington (part one, act one)

2008-11-10T23:15:00.000-08:00

Blog by LomBardo for The Pop Exposé

BLOG Sun. 11908

Yesterday up all night. It wasnt that bad though..... early Sat. morning was nice; about 6:30...warm outside...just light out....birds chirping as the sky continues to light up....Drunk guy, who just got mugged, ringing my DORBELL with a broken hand ,.....dew resting gently on the grass.....wait..What?!
Yes this reverberated shockwaves in my system for a minute. Carefully I opened my door ( let's just say ready ) - it's a bad neighborhood sometimes. To my surprise it was this guy, who I do know, coming over after a long night. I say surprise because relief would entail that I was glad to see him, rather than some thug(s). Turns out the thugs got the better of him and he decided to come over. He had no vehicle, lived miles away, so I brought him in for a little bit- reluctantly disarming myself. This is not the first time, however that he has arrived at my door with a broken bone and cerosis of the cerebellum. For Real! I drove him home, returned to my house and got on with the beautiful morning.....birds chirping.....

~ Blotter about my experiences in this area..

Case 1: About three years ago a guy was walking down my street with his wife and child. He asked if he could mow my lawn for cash. I said yes, let him use my equipment, and hooked him up with other jobs on the street. He stole my lawnmower.

Case 2: Driving home at @ 10:30 at night a while back, turning last corner to my house I see a toddler walking in the street, barefoot , alone. I stop and think of how to contain the kid without scaring him. I get him to come over to me and he is too young to explain why he is strolling down my street. I worked nearby so I opened the office, took him in and called the cops. They arrived and were AMAZED that he was so small and out by himself.
They managed to find out some info. and took him away.

Case 3: About a month later I am in my house watching football, in the afternoon. Out of the corner of my eye I detect movement. Looking out the window I see a small girl, barefoot, walking to my door! I open the door, girl was about 3 , and walked out to see what was up. As I held her hand and walked out to my driveway, I looked around for a parent ( or guardian over the age of ..well....6? )--- there was nobody. Nearly five minutes later I hear a neighbor lady calling out some name. I walked to the street and saw this lady, looking weathered, meandering around looking for this girl. When I walk out where she can see us I ask the girl If she knows the lady. Girl obviously approves and yells back. Lady walks over, yells at her, picks her up and passively says thanks and leaves.
That lady can vote .

Case 4: I awaken at midnight to my dog barking frantically. I see lights coming in my window from the BACK yard. When I peek up I see K-9 unit in my backyard looking around. Without turning on all my lights I take the dog in living room where I see cop lights on my street. Then I just wait to see what happens. The cops come around and see me, somewhat alarmed. They knock, I open, " Who's in there with you ?"
" My dog" I answer.
They mumble a little and I wait just a bit. Then I ask them if they want to check. The cop at my door was obviously some kind of rookie and he asks the searg. Guy nods and the " Recruit " enters my house. He checks it out then explains that a store was robbed down the street, and the K-9 tracks of the perp ended in my backyard ( Ann Rule are you reading this? ). The copkid looked at me like' What do we do?' I assured him that I heard nothing and my dog would have barked loudly if he did. Then they left and it was over.
Or was it.....
Following Monday : In the evening my next door neighbor alerts me from her yard ...laughing. I asked what was up and her husband came over. He said " did you read the Auburn Newspaper ?" " No ," I said." They're good friends of mine and Mark came over that night after cops left to see what was up. He showed me the paper which had a bit about the robbery. It concluded with " Police followed tracks to backyard but have no suspect. They will report back to house if they feel they need to for the investigation. "
Now the Test : On the other side of my back fence is a school....then the street. On my south side is one house...then a street. The cops came down and crossed over my south neighbors yard into mine , following tracks...until they got to my yard -then they stopped. What Happened ?

To be continued......I need coffee.

Mr. Lobo.

"Sometimes They Drop By" Ep by The Raveonettes

2008-11-10T03:43:00.000-08:00

Well before I continue with the rest of my blog, I would like to state that the Danish musical duo known as The Raveonettes is my favorite modern band. But I must admit I was left a little confused (maybe even disappointed) after listening to their E.P. entitled, Sometimes They Drop By. Unlike their previous albums/ E.P.s, "Sometimes" lacks the sexy vintage guitar tones and haunting harmonies of their past work and opts for a more electronic/synthesized sound. Don't get me wrong, I like it when a band evolves but I think it's a shame that The Raveonettes decided to omit some of the key elements of their sound that had drawn me towards them in the first place. The songs on "Sometimes" sound like they could have been out takes from their last album, "Lust Lust Lust", which was less than stellar but still had catchy melodies and an upbeat rythm. Out of the four songs the E.P., "Way Out There" seems to be somewhat of a stand out track but still lacks that ummph like the rest of the E.P. The title track has a very opiated dreamy vibe which I can apreciate but the overall E.P. was very confusing to me and I hope this isnt a permanent fix for the band.(2/5) -Nik

Lombardo and Voting confusion.

2008-11-09T02:18:00.000-08:00

BLOG ENTRY 11 6 08
Lombardo

First I should clarify that a previous random piece I sent may have been misconstrued. The blog about " Renee" and " Gilbert " was just simply joking around, and giving a 'shout out' of sorts. OK you probably decoded that those ARE their real names, and they both are friends of mine. Renee thing was in reference to a recent change of hair color and I don't think Gilbert has a Corvette. Let me just say I apologize for the ambiguity of my remarks, and let me give a non cryptic shout out to Renee and Gilbert. Alright ..... even the Nik stuff was made up. Please also realize that I have been out of It for two days so randomness prevailed.

WOW
The voting experience was telling.
I went to the poll and asked what ID they need.
The girl there said they have to let everybody vote....no matter what
She followed by saying that she asked if a kid came in, or someone who was from another
country, then do they let them?
The instructor said yes.
Surprised, I asked who gave her that instruction ( the girl herself was just doing what she was
told ) then two people crowded over us and I figured to let it go...for then.

Now for the media subjects ( double entendre if you think about it )

CELEB REHAB

What was supposed to be critique of an anticipated circus act, my sentiment has changed about, what I call " THE C R ".
At first I expected violent scenes and gratuitous celebrity parading, but after watching the CR for a couple weeks, I cant make fun of it....entirely. I dont want to make light of, what I have seen to be, compelling and tragic situations. So not to be morose on this Pop Exposé Blog, which I call " The P E ", I'll just say that some of the humor or irony I will try to convey in the future.

CABLE STATIONS I GET

Northern Arizona University Channel
@10 jewelry sales channels
The Barack Obama Channel ( If that isnt scary...it will be )
Spanish shopping channels
2 Horseracing channels

and about 245 others.

MISC.
.

~~~To the four of you who read this, let me recommend the writings of Dave Barry. He is the emperor of randomness! Hilarious.

~~~Dude got five....yes FIVE holes-in-one in ONE WEEK! 22 Yrs old . Illinois State University.

~~~Jones/Calzaghe tomorrow. ( Boxing fan ). My prediction...Calzaghe.

~~~Palendrome of the day.... A man a plan a Canal Panama.

~~~The Atlantic side of the Panama Canal is west of the Pacific side.

Until then,

Mr. L.

Wallpaper, Pop Music Lives!

2008-11-08T13:29:00.000-08:00

In a musical scene filled with dull dance grooves and lousy "art" rock, it is very refreshing to hear the catchy pop hooks that ooze out of the Auburn, Washington band, Wallpaper.
Their debut album entitled, "On The Chewing Gum Ground" is the first of hopefully many K Records release. The three members, Derek Kelley, Spencer Kelley, and Steve Potter, use tried and trued song writing methods to formulate very familiar but original compositions. When listening to key tracks from the album such as, "New California" and "Nod Off", one could not help but hear the influences ranging from The Beach Boys to Pavement which only encourages you to listen and want more. The three piece has made writing a catchy pop song their forte. Trading off instrument duties with each other and singing in harmony is the norm at a Wallpaper show, while lead vocalist Derek sings lyrics that are sarcastic, sometimes cryptic, and above else, clever. Over all, On The Chewing Gum Ground really captures the band in their "live" element which I think is the best element of a band. The album is proof that the pop song format is still relevant even in today's epic musical landscape.
I give the album 4/5 -nik Y.

Basic tracks you gotta hear: Pop Rocket, Rock Collage, Totalled.
"On the Chewing Gum Ground" by Wallpaper, out now on K Records. www.krecs.com
Check out Wallpaper's MySpace at www.myspace.com/publicstudents
Email me (Nik) at nikyambao@me.com

The Last Shadow People show.

2008-11-07T17:51:00.001-08:00

On the way to last Shadow People Show. We are playing with Wallpaper, very good band really excited to see them perform.

Lombardo Entry 11-06-08

2008-11-07T15:27:00.000-08:00

BLOG ENTRY 11-06-08

Subject.....

Renee.

There is a girl I would like to blog about. I won't say her name, but what a lady! Just when you think you know her, there is a chameleon effect and you see a girl that looks totally different. She is an enigma and a wiley vixen indeed.
Also a guy...his name I will with hold.... he's a buddy of mine ,and I'll just give him the code-name " Gilbert". " Gilbert " is a man who you should embrace because he may be worth many millions soon. He has a Corvette with his name on the license plate. - nuff said.
Finally the host of this blog, Nik. Nik is incarcerated now, but when he gets out I plan to take him to his favorite restaurant....it's called " Crabs ".
I now think the world will end in 2012, so I'm livin' like it's Two....thou-sand.....eleven!

Piece,

Mr. Lombardo

Didn't see that coming.

2008-11-05T21:20:00.000-08:00

I had feeling the Democratic canidate would win the presidency buy didn't see a landslide coming.

349-169?!?!?!?

Brian Rocky (R) Wa, for The Pop Exposé

2008-11-04T04:17:00.000-08:00

UPDATE......IMPROMPTU BLOG.....

Dear Readers, and those reading impaired,

I wasn't going to do it.... I didn't want to bring politics into it. But this is the night before the single most, absolute WIERDEST election I have ever seen! The soapbox needs to be stood on! ( Yambao smiling right now ). It is not really accurate to say I am a republican...because I don't know what that is anymore. But, a political conservative "type" Yes. I'm 38 (ladies), really into politics for 20 years. Poli-Sci major at the Univ. Washington ---- Home of " Red Square", but still retained all my political beliefs. Actually there is a whole blog for every subcatagory I write about... so .....from now on * Enter Disclaimer Here*. Can't write about all of everything. So, at an attempt at brevity so shall I be.
That preface is not to say I am an expert, to each their own expertise; but to encode the frustration of being politically active for many years. Plus I barely got into UW in the first place as extracrclr. activities were my focus at the time. My resume is actually pretty mediocre
to this point in life.. (ladies). But I am still into politics, I am voting tomorrow, and I have sustained a political perspective through the past 2 decades. So what can I say about this election..... well.......part of the reason I am balding (ladies) is the past involvement with politics, but this circus is scary! I won't even talk about Obama/Biden, except to ask ....what does that look like? But the " Conservative " ticket this election is just what we Repubs thought. McCain is....well......being idiotic! I don't call him an Idiot ,but he has confirmed our fears on the right. He is a hero of this country, but once you enter the realm he's in it is prudent to scrutinize, I believe. ( Yes, this is the same guy who an hour ago was quoting Gary Busey). What are we pissed about? He is a turncoat on his own party and a pandering egomaniac. O'Reilly is to be subject to scrutiny also, but his TV show is successful. McCain won't go on it! Britt Hume, cons. TV host, called Mac for MONTHS.....McCain wouldn't go on the show! Katie Couric...more than once. That is a microcosm of what the McCain mindset is, and that is why we are stymied.
Well, this campaign has been wierd, just like the fact that I am going to go vote for this guy tomorrow. And, that has been the most I plan to expound on the subject of politics forever on this blog. But it is an historic time....and the words of Gary Busey come to mind. " What's my situation with the situation".

Sincerely,
Bald, right wing, mediocre blogger. ( Ladies ).

PS History.........in 19th century politicians would need to carry their voice over the crowd they were speaking to, so they would stand on a treestump... hence " stump " speeches. Also hearers would want to ask questions or yell at them , so they would bring a wooden soapbox to stand on so they could be seen and heard. Now the Irish Spring container doesn't work as well, that's why I soapbox on the Interweb.

Brian Rocky for The Pop Exposé, Thoughts for Election Day 08'

2008-11-04T03:50:00.000-08:00

BLOG ENTRY for Election Day 2008!

To begin this blog, I think that it would be appropriate to give an explanation of what it is all about. I think I heard tonight what sums it up.
It's the night before an election for the highest office in the land. We have heard so much from the candidates that there is much to quote from them. Yet I go to the words of a man who is not running for office, yet thinks he is. So on this election eve I go to the words of Gary Busey, " I speak from a spiritual land; thats where I live ". Busey was also called a scumbag in this latest episode, downplaying it like a true candidate by saying " It's not the first time I've been called that".
Now to the topic de jour. Which means " topic of the jour ":
Fry Sauce.
A warning.... anytime you are offered " fry sauce " as a condiment know this... whatever you are eating, by adding fry sauce you make it taste like a Big Mac. Just a heads up. Okay there are some more items of the jour. The Pickup Artist on VH1 is something I cant forgoe.
Just when I thought I knew all about subliminally manipulating women I am outdone by ameteurs. Yes the Pickup Artist, or as I call it " The Artist " features young males without experience taking up methods from a man I think is called "Mystery". Maybe Mystere. I just call him " The Artist ". These young lads are given clothes and spa treatment for a makeover session, then a 6 foot mannachin for a makeout session.But there is a factor introduced which is most effective in their effort to corrall strange women at crowded locations. It is simply the saying " I need to get back to my friends in a minute ". Who are these friends? Could it mean a mundane group of every men, or Is the guy possibly Implying that he must return to his alien land, and that he is not of this Earth? Could it be code for " I am a spook from a secret Soviet Block nation that is remnant of the 1991 fall of the USSR ", or maybe " I am on a television show and the other participants are in a bus outside"?
Mysterey Indeed!
I will now experiment with the Emotions taskbar.
Yes this is the one which should be used with this particular entry----.or possibly.

Until we have a ' Lame Duck ' in the White House,
Goodnight.... from Brian Rocky for The Pop Exposé.

2nd generation iPod touch to the rescue!!!!!!

2008-11-02T06:40:00.000-08:00

I am a proud owner of an iPhone 3g, but after filling up the little 8GB wonder with my music collection, I noticed two things, I need more room to add the rest of my media collection and ever since I loaded up 7 Gb worth of songs on to the phone, the iPhone is starting to crash way more often. The iPod part of the iPhone has been crashing most, it used to never quit on me before , but since the recent media in influx it crashes more frequently. I have the latest 2.1 firmware and I only have about 5 other apps on it besides the ones that came with it. So my decision has been made to get an additional iPod touch to store the rest of my music collection and to relieve my iPhone of hardcore music playing duties. My iPhone has went from maybe 1 crash a month to 5 crashes a day, this has become real thorn in my geek side. But now I just have to make up my mind of either a 16 GB or a 32 GB iPod touch. What's a geek to do?

Rikki Rainbow bitches.

2008-11-01T06:56:00.000-07:00

Well let me get straight to the point, Rikki Rainbow is a electro-pop phenomenon that will melt your brain. I was at a Halloween party this weekend where I saw Rikki Rainbow perform for the first time. For those who don't know, Rikki Rainbow is the gay rapper alter ego of my friend Scott Ricketts. The performance was full of sass , ego, and confidence something I crave when i see a gay rapper perform. The flows and the dance moves made his persona very addicting to watch as all eyes in the tiny overheated basement were fixated on Rikki. Even meat head jock types couldn't help but cheer him on. As he is the only person on stage performing, this was very impressive to see such command over the crowd, a true MC. To best describe the music its like Lil Kim with a penis and Fruity Loops. Rikki Rainbow is a testament to how dedicated a performer can be to a character. I predict more ass shaking flow kicking house shows to come, be on the look out. To find out more about Rikki Rainbow check out his MySpace page at www.myspace.com/rikkirainbow and listen to the song , "Totally Bodacious". It will fuck you up!

The Lombardo Doctrine

2008-10-30T00:12:00.000-07:00

Watch out for upcoming articles on crappy reality shows and mass media. You've been warned.

Beware of the underdog

2008-10-28T08:09:00.001-07:00

Don't underestimate the late bloomer.

Where are you Killer App?

2008-10-28T06:26:00.000-07:00

I must agree with Apple Inc. on that the iPhone 3g is the most advanced mobile device on the market right now. The addition to of the App Store within iTunes gives the iPhone the ability to gain additional features that are not originally shipped on the device. The thing is I have yet to to see an app that really solves any of iPhones missing features such as MMS messaging and the ability to record video. Don't get me wrong I really like being able to log into my MySpace account when I'm on the toilet and even play a little texas hold em, but i really want that killer app to appear or, better yet be allowed by Apple to appear, in The App Store. I remember reading about Net Share, an app that tethered iPhone to a computer so the computer can use iphone to get on the internet, and thinking wow, I'm sold, I'm buying an iphone! To my dismay as, soon as i got the phone, WHAM! Apple pulled the app with out giving a reason for weeks. Bummer. I read in magazines such as MacLife and Macworld, that apps getting pulled mysteriously is common practice, or at least was, it the rest of the makes me wonder how many killer apps were rejected or pulled out of the app store before anybody really got a chance to see their awesome power. I just think its a bummer that there are people making apps that can complete the missing goodies on iPhone, but get their work rejected or pulled. Were are you killer app?

It worked!!

2008-10-28T02:37:00.001-07:00

Blog Press worked cool!

Blog Press

2008-10-28T02:29:00.000-07:00

I'm using a new mobile blog app called, Blog Press hopefully it'll work. This blog was posted using Blog Press. My old I used, Shozu stoped working.

The good old days

2008-10-27T23:33:00.000-07:00

The Shadow People in the garage.

Good Bye Old Friend

2008-10-27T23:18:00.000-07:00

Today I sold my 30Gb 5th generation iPod to my boss for $100.
For the past three years, "Pod" has been there to play me my favorite Beatles track to the occasional Office episode, but now she will provide years of service to a new owner. I've always felt secure knowing that your white plastic face and shiny metal back was waiting for me in my jean pocket.My iPhone 3g will be her permanent replacement but I'm also thinking about getting an iPod touch to add to my Apple arsenal. I'll never forget my first iPod. 5th generation iPod, this buds' for you.

12 days until the last shadow people show ever....

2008-10-26T02:49:00.000-07:00

On Noveber 7th we(The Shadow People) will play our last and final show as a group. The show will be in Olympia, Wa, in support of the Wallpaper record release show.

baby bump

2008-10-24T08:27:00.000-07:00

check out the baby bump

nik yambao's kid is in thre

Most Overrated

2008-10-24T06:23:00.000-07:00

I have compiled a list of the top 8 most overrated celebrities. I have no idea why these people get as much credit as they do. From strung out pop stars to dull dim witted arises, these people really make me want to drive my car into oncoming traffic when ever i see their stupid faces. Man am I angry (can you sense the sarcasm?).

8. Hugh Hefner. Sadly the man every man wants to be, has went to from a sexual revolutionary to a dirty old man. Tell me, if you were a young curvy blonde or even three young curvy blondes, would you seriously date an 82 year old man? Sure you would if he had deep pockets. Hugh's relationship with Holly, Bridget, and Kendra has as much realism as Michael Jackson and Lisa Marie's. Playboy's photos still look like they were taken in 1984 and are so doctored that I don't know if I'm looking at a woman or an X-rated Pixar movie.

7. Brooke Hogan. Yeah the name speaks for it self. I saw this daddies girl's face 22 times in 45 minutes on Vh1 once. If her reality show, Brooke Knows Best, doesn't make your skin crawl her Music will, check out her album, Undiscovered, if you still think popping ecstasy and lower back tattoos are still in fashion.

6. Amy Whinehouse. With a voice similar to Nina Simone and a drug habit like Courtney Love, a falling star burn out is nothing new to the media's eye. But people still eat up. Check out her album Back to Black.

5. The bitches from The Hills. I don't see why people think these girl's lives are glamourous. The show really has no entertainment value, real lowest common denominator type stuff. The drama that unfolds is very high school like and juvenile. The characters lack depth and therefore, are very shallow. The thing that I find disturbing the most is when I see my 40 year old cousin so in tranced by this mind numbing show.

4. Nickelback. Nothing sums up cheese rock like a Nickelback song. With a strong following of late 30 to mid 40 year olds that swear they are hip cause they listen to Nickelback , the band seems to be the poster boys generic mainstream rock and roll. They make their bank by portraying themselves, musically, as working class rockers with a grunge influence but lack any depth or originality. They have a lead singer that looks like a golden retriever and macho rock song titles like "Animals" and "Rockstar". Every time my boss blasts a Nickelback song on the radio a little part of me dies. Thats how bad they are.

3. Pamela Anderson. Wake up world! Its the 21st century and Pamela Anderson is not hot anymore. She has the hep, more rock stars have inside of her than the Whiskey a Go Go, and if you've seen a close up photo of her, you can see that the passing years of the 90s have not spared her beauty. She should leave the roll of the blonde bombshell to a much younger qualified woman and grow out of her passé image. But hey, if she still gets a pay check out of it, more power to her.

2. Bill O'reilly. Conservative, Loud, Narrow Minded, Short Tempered, Splotchy. You do the math. Bill, who once was an anchor for Inside Edition, claimed that he and Inside Edition won two Peabody awards. Well they won a Polk award and it was a year after he left the show. On his dumb ass show, The O'Reilly Factor, he cuts off anyone who disagrees with him and resorts to shouting when some one is trying to prove their point in the "NO SPIN ZONE". He leans pretty far to the right and defends it with every word he speaks even if it makes him look ignorant asshole. yuck. For fun YouTube "Bill O'Reilly freaks out on Inside Edition".

1. Paris Hilton. This girl is such a bitch that she needs a reality show to find a herself a best friend (My New BFF). Never in my life have I seen a celebrity promote being stupid as a cool thing. Why in the fuck is she even famous? She has absolutely no talent in anything, Can't act, can't sing, the bitch can't even fuck (ever seen her sex video?)but everyone acts like she's fucking god. I really don't know why young girls want to be and look like her, personally I think she looks like a drag queen. Remember that clip of her crying in court when the cold hand of reality threw her dumb ass in jail for D.U.I.? I thought it was fucking hilarious.

My replacement!

2008-10-19T06:04:00.001-07:00

My girlfriend and I were at a Seattle porn shop where she met her new BFF. It takes a talented girl to pull that off!

Hell Yeah, time to get political!!!!!

2008-10-15T18:25:00.001-07:00

In light of the final Presidential Debate (by the way this is one of the rare occasions I talk politics), I decided to post a very interesting article I found in Parade magazine. The article highlights each canidate's tax plan and how it effects you in terms of how much money you save based on your annual income. If you make $111,600-more than $2.87 million it seems like you will save more money with John McCain's tax plan and if you make $111,600 and below you will save less. If you make anywhere from below $19,000 up $161,000 will save more with Barack Obama's tax plan.

Just a little food for thought.

Apple unveils long awaited MacBook update!

2008-10-14T19:57:00.001-07:00

Today at 10am in Cupertino, Cailfornia, Steve Jobs and company presented the new line of MacBooks, Macbook Pros' and MacBook Airs' with a new 1066 frontside bus and blazing fast DDR3 memory. In addition to the new updates under the hood, the Macbook sports an all aluminum shell. This aircraft grade metal is cut out of a single piece of aluminum greatly reducing the weight and overall size of the notebook. We personally want one really bad. With the new Macbooks available, Apple also droped the price of their plastic white Macbook to $999 just in time for the holiday shopping season.

The first three months with the iPhone 3G

2008-10-14T01:07:00.000-07:00

After passing up the original iPhone for its lack of features, I finally gave in and got myself an iPhone 3g about two weeks after it was released. After using the device for two months i find myself satisfied with my purchase but also wanting more.

First of all, the upgrades done to the device are well worth the new price point. $199 for the 8 GB version and $299 for 16 GB, of course these prices include an at&t 2 year contract and an added unlimited data plan, let alone being qualified for an upgrade. If not qualified for upgrade pricing, the iPhone 3g will set you back $399 for 8 GB and $499 16 GB.

3G connectivity is the biggest upgrade ( Apple claims twice as fast as the original). Although I only really see the speed difference 90% of the time compared to my old Edge cell phone. Also remember that 3G connectivity is not as abundant as your normal cell connection so check with you network provider. Another hardware upgrade to the "wonder phone" is an actual GPS receiver. This new addition, along with current use of cell towers, makes pin pointing our exact location a lot more accurate, when I moved the little blue pin on the screen would move along with me (so cool). I've heard a lot of people tell me the GPS systems on the phone routinely losses the signal and sometimes takes up to 20 minutes to find your location. However, I have yet to see this type of behavior with my unit. A big selling point for me was the addition of the app store. Now 3rd party developers can design apps that range from games, utilities , social networking , and even voice dialing (a feature that the iPhone 3g does not support right out of the box) to be downloaded via app store and run native on the iPhone. This feature is also available to the first generation iPhone done with a simple firmware update. The App Store has become an unexpected controversy with Apple pulling and denying apps from being sold in the App Store showing little or no reason.... from what I've read. Although i see a lot more time wasting games than actual useful apps, I think the App Store still gets an A+ for giving users the ability to customize their iPhone 3G.

With all the extra goodies on board for the second generation iPhone, there still is a few qualities M.I.A. The same two megapixel camera can only shoot still images. You would think some one would write an app to utilize the camera to take video or at least Apple would allow such an app to be in the App Store. I don't know why Apple would overlook such a now basic feature to be added to the iPhone. For a lot of people I spoke with this was a real big deal breaker. For they were sold on the idea of having YouTube come standard on the iPhone but let down by the fact that they couldn't record video on to it and then uploaded on to their YouTube account. Bummer.

Compatibility with Microsoft's Exchange comes standard on the iPhone now, but still no MMS messaging. For all the photos your iPhone can hold, there still is no simple way to send them to another cell phone within a text message. Although you can email a photo to another cell phone by using the recipient's wireless carrier info( check out this web link to find out to do this........http://iphone.macworld.com/2007/08sending_and_receiving_mms_on_y_1.php), this is hardly a solution and requires you find out who your contact's wireless server provider is.

Apple, once again, decided to leave out cut and paste functionality. Although I myself never found it to be a real thorn in my side, it like a proper 2nd generation feature to include. Oh yeah, you can also view but not edit your text and word documents, once again I myself has never had a real desire for this feature but I'm sure the ability to work on your documents while on the road would be a welcomed one.

All in all I think this is a well rounded all in one gadget sure to sell like hot cakes. Apple has once again set technology trend with multi-touch screens, accelerometers, and wireless music downloads. Although I wish there was just a little more "2.0" to go with the 2nd generation iPhone(which I'm totally satisfied with), oh well guess I'll have to wait for next wonder phone from Apple.

4 out 5 stars. Nik Yambao

Nik in Translation

2008-10-13T05:55:00.000-07:00

well my band, The Shadow People hav split due to differences with our lead singner. Since i dont have any musical commitments as of right now, I will be writing about ther local bands from the south puget sound. Maybe once in awhile post something random about my own life well anyways toodles