Michael Jackson ft Akon - Wanna Be Starting Something (2008)

Interesting collabo....thoughts???

WEEKEND BOX OFFICE - January 25–27, 2008

1. Meet the Spartans - $18,725,000
2. Rambo - $18,150,000
3. 27 Dresses - $13,600,000
4. Cloverfield - $12,700,000
5. Untraceable - $11,200,000
6. Juno - $10,300,000
7. The Bucket List - $10,210,000
8. There Will Be Blood - $4,887,000
9. National Treasure: Book of Secrets - $4,664,000
10. Mad Money - $4,610,000
11. Alvin and the Chipmunks - $4,550,000
12. How She Move - $4,158,000

Winterlicious 2008

Heath Ledger - RIP

Heath Ledger passed away today Tuesday Jan 22nd 2008. Death is due to a drug overdose, an autopsy is scheduled for Wednesday. Heath Ledger was best known for his role in Brokeback Mountain and also had a role in Monster’s Ball; he is in the upcoming Batman movie playing Joker.
Heath has a daughter (Matlida) with ex fiance’ Michelle Wiilliams.

Lackluster Albums Killed the Record Store

It’s depressing.....In my youngster days, I would spend hours in a record store browsing for the latest breakthrough artists and bands. I also would pick up on the albums that were before my time but were definitive to their eras i.e. Purple Rain, Sticky Fingers, Thriller. I invested so much time and money to building a library of one of the most diverse music collections as it was a passion of mine.
Now it’s dead. No not disco, but the music industry. The breakthrough of illegal downloading and mp3 players has put the industry on halt and doesn’t seem to be moving forward in creating definitive albums. Now in days you hear a song on the radio and you run to your Itunes or illegal file sharing program and download it. In doing so, we’ve reduced the value of the album as a whole. The music business has taken note. Can anyone say that Futuresex/Lovesounds or B-Day will be considered a groundbreaking album 20 years down the road? Though we may remember Sexyback for its bizarre and tacky title.

For me it’s incredibly depressing to be witnessing legendary Toronto record stores like Sam’s closing due to the shoddy state of the industry. Even Music World is throwing in the towel. Music isn’t marketable in a package anymore. Now it has to be sold for advertisements or be included on some reality television program. HMV has completely reinvented its product line. They now specialize in dvds and video games, whereas they used to be the leading chain for music.

Of course I’ve come to realize that’s the way the market shifts, and will continue to support artists and musicians if their music interests me. Be sure to keep an eye open for the critical reviews of this years most anticipated releases. All reviewed by yours truly. Until then, everybody go out and buy an entire album. Yes, you haven’t “bought” a record in five years, but we’ve got to do our best to protect such a wonderful medium.

-JayLaDivo

Top 10 Favourite Games of 2007

I am back! I swear I didn’t die or anything… It’s been over a month since I’ve posted last. With the holidays (i.e. drunken binges and regrettable nights) and school starting up again I had been pretty swamped.

I have been working on two comprehensive top ten lists for the past couple of weeks (one being my Top 10 Favourite Games of 2007, and the other my Top 10 Most Anticipated Games of 2008) and I noticed that it was all getting a little lengthy. So I have decided to release half of each list each week, from 10 to number 1.

Hopefully this will work out; because I couldn’t figure out any other way to work it and I have sooooooooo much to say about these games it’s kind of disturbing. I’m just kidding… yea.

ANYWHO, without further adieu I shall share with you my favourite games of 2007, #’s 10 – 6.

Remember, these are my choices (stress the MINE part, if you disagree… you fail at life).

10. Bioshock



I put this game at number ten because I honestly couldn’t play it that much. I know that the game is very well polished, with a deep narrative and amazing graphics… but… It scared the crap outta me. I couldn’t do it. The random scares with splicers chasing you with guns and grenades and screaming as you set them ablaze or shocked them… I couldn’t take it. So… I mainly watched my brother play through, and still was having heart attack after heart attack. This is the reason I’ve never beaten a Silent Hill or Resident Evil game. Horror games are my Kryptonite. And even though this isn’t a horror game... its close enough for a scaredy cat like me. It was fun to watch though.

9. Moero! Nekketsu Rhythm Damashii Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan 2



Now this is a Japanese import, the successor to Osu! Tatakae! Ouendan! A game that spawned its Western counterpart Elite Beat Agents. Now Elite Beat Agents is on my top list for favourite games of ALL TIME. So anything closely related to it will get just mention. This game isn’t for everyone (the game is in Japanese; and while playable… the songs are also in Japanese and may turn many).

Regardless, this rhythm based tapping system keeps me entertained while on the subway, waiting for appointments, or if I’m bored at work (disregard that last one). This game came out in 2007, but I would recommend everyone with breath and a DS to pick up the US version Elite Beat Agents. And if you don’t have a DS, you fail and go get one.

8. The Legend of Zelda: Phantom Hourglass

I have only scratched the surface of this game but I can tell you that it is made of win.
If I lost you there stay with me. It has fully integrated the unique functionality of the DS (the touch screen, mind you) and made a solid installment in the Zelda Saga. You play as Link (from Windwaker fame) and it is up to you to save Tetra aka Princess Zelda from evil as usual.



You fight and move solely with the stylus, which may cause carpal tunnel if you get too obsessed with it and play for hours. Trust me; it was hard to put down. The game is immersive, addictive and fun like all Legend of Zelda games are but it is convenient and quick as every Nintendo DS game should be. This is definitely a must buy.

7. Scene It!



Oh my Goodness this game is so fun. I am soooo glad that the Xbox 360 (the hardcore gamer’s love machine) has a casual game on it that is addictive and great for parties! Everyone needs this game, you can play for hours with your friends and it comes with these cute buzzers and endless opportunity to totally pwn movie trivia n00bs. (Translation: have a good time).

6. Heavenly Sword

Nariko is hot. Hawt. A total badass reminds me of Xena hot. I swear I think I only played this game to ogle her.



But…. But LOOK AT HER! I never felt funny looking at a 3D generated fictional character before. Yet with her… I’m in love.

*cough*

All kidding aside, this game’s amazing animation, graphics, voice acting, and storyline is only hampered by one flaw. Repetitive gameplay. Okay so this game is like God of War 1.5 when it comes to combat but it still is a solid arena style adventure game. Very enjoyable. Just make sure to turn of the Sixaxis features. They are the WORST THING EVER CREATED BY MAN. Okay that’s a little extreme but they are really annoying. IF you have a PS3, you have this game because there isn’t much else. Ha.


Stay Tuned for Next Week’s Installment when I wrap everything up in a neat little package!

…

Anyone get The Simpson’s reference? … Guess not.

"Get Sexy" - Ladies Come Celebrate Your 'Sexy'

Host:AFM * Tall Boy Entertainment*Platinum Touch*Get Rite Urban Clothing

As we embark on another year, AFM, Tall Boy Ent, Get Right Urban Clothing. and Platinum Touch present you with: “Get Sexy” at the fashionable and classy Purr Supper Club

What do YOU think is sexy?

You can ask a million different people that question and expect a million different answers. The meaning of the word "sexy" springs from an unpredictable jumble of broad cultural values and intimate, personal experiences.
This event takes place at Pur Supper Club, a perfect oasis for pleasure with a relaxed atmosphere.
PUR Supper Club, is a perfect oasis for business or pleasure with a relaxed atmosphere and a fusion of elegance and exotic appeal. For those who have not heard of ‘PUR Supper Club’, it is hidden in the heart of the city at 365 King St West. This destination promises to add a unique touch away from the downtown club strip. It’s relaxed and cozy feel, yet attractive and sophisticated atmosphere brings to you the best of both worlds.

We invite all Ladies to come celebrate their ‘Sexy’ on January 25th, 2008 inside the Purr Supper Club.
Cover:
$5 before 11 for Ladies
$10 before 11 for Gentlemen

----------------------------------------------------------------------
Ladies $10 all night after 11PM
Gentlemen $15 all night after 11PM

Music By: Platinum Touch SC, and Fire Kid Steenie
Hours: 9pm-3am
Dress: Style Code. no Bandanas, or Baggy Clothing. Come dressed to impress
Age: 21+
Vibe: Mature Crowd
Music: Hip Hop, Reggae, R & B, Soca
For VIP or Guestlist Call: 4166489977 - 4165582909- 4163056074
Start Time:Friday,January 25,2008 @ 10:00pm
End Time:Saturday, January 26,2008 @ 4:00am
Location:The Elegant Purr Supper
Club Street:365 King Street WestCity/Town:Toronto, ON

WEEKEND BOX OFFICE - January 18–20, 2008

1 - Cloverfield - $41,000,000
2 - 27 Dresses - $22,427,000

3 - The Bucket List - $15,150,000

4 - Juno - $10,250,000
5 - National Treasure: Book of Secrets - $8,148,000
6 - First Sunday - $7,800,000
7 - Mad Money - $7,700,000
8 - Alvin and the Chipmunks - $7,000,000
9 - I Am Legend - $5,105,000
10 - Atonement - $4,759,000
11 - There Will Be Blood - $3,121,000
12 - One Missed Call - $2,830,000

CONCERT LISTINGS - TORONTO

HEDLEY/PRIDE TIGER
Feb. 2 - Kool Haus
http://umusic.ca/hedley/
http://www.pridetiger.com/home.asp

SPICE GIRLS
Feb. 3 & 4 - Air Canada Centre
http://www.thespicegirlsgreatesthits.com/

K.D. LANG
Feb. 21 - The Courthouse
http://www.kdlang.com/home.php

MATCHBOX TWENTY/ALANIS MORISSETTE/MUTEMATH
Feb. 22 - Air Canada Centre
http://www.matchboxtwenty.com/
http://www.alanis.com/
http://www.mutemath.com/

JAMES BLUNT/SARA BAREILLES
Feb. 24 & 25 Sony Centre For the Arts (formerly The Hummingbird)
http://www.jamesblunt.com/
http://www.myspace.com/sarabareilles

REALITY TV......STILL SIGNIFICANT????

I don’t know about you, but there really is nothing better than to come home, curl up with a nice bowl of popcorn and spend the night with a good… reality TV show. I bet you thought I would say book… Well the truth is, as much as we like to deny it, reality TV is as infectious as the common cold and so far here to stay.

Let me ask you a question. How many of you tuned into the ever popular first episode of American Idol? You may not have watched a full episode, but definitely grazed it for a minute or more. With each year we are subjected to a plethora of good talent mixed in with the usual “William Hung” variety. This year reports indicate that viewership was down compared to the last year. But do you really think it’s because the reality TV is out like the Jerry curl. Somehow I highly doubt it.

When you think about it, it’s not that viewership is down; it’s more like reality TV programming is up. Since the writers strike it looks as though reality TV is the new black. There really are too many to compete with and not that much time to watch it all. To watch one show mean to sacrifice watching another, or you could do like many TVholics do and watch a few simultaneously.

In a way it provides a momentary escape from our own realities. We get to see if there is any truth to that age old saying the “grass is greener on the other side”. Whether it is or not, I can’t say, it’s all about your own perception. But what I do know is that sometimes, “real” life can be stranger than fiction.

That’s My Real Talk…Toronto … you’re going to Hollywood!!!

Live On Stage - Jan 26th 2008

"Live On Stage" presents:

ROOTS.ROCK.REGGAE. Featuring: Jason Wilson. In Altum. Tréson/IBADAN

Hosted by: Al St. Louis (When Words Are Spoken)

Inside Sydneys Island Restaurant 5120 Dixie Rd/ Eglinton W
$15 Adv $20 Door

8pm Open For Dinner, Show 9:30pm

Tickets available: All Nicey's, Strickly Roots(Brampton) Sydneys Restaurant

This is a live music Event!

Info: www.sydneysisland.com

OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network

Oprah Winfrey and Discovery Communications announced plans today to create OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network. The new multi-platform media venture will be designed to entertain, inform and inspire people to live their best lives. OWN will debut in 2009in more than 70 million homes, on what is currently the Discovery Health Channel

Club Listings

Pedestrians - By JayLaDivo

I am a pedestrian. Yes, rub your eyes and look again, we are a rare breed. At least that’s what it feels like in the big city.
Commuting to work is like walking the plank with the sharks waiting to tear you to shreds. Seriously, it bothers me immensely to hear drivers complain about how hard it was for them to get to make it to work, due to traffic, weather, an accident, blah, blah, blah. Try waiting for a bus and walking over the overpass in the middle of a snow storm and tell me how envious you are to go on 2 feet.
Naturally this doesn’t account for everyone behind the wheel, but it seems drivers have a disturbing habit of getting frustrated with pedestrians. I’m not talking about the idiot that j-walked in front of your vehicle on a busy street. I’m talking about the ones that execute their right of way by crossing at stop signs, lights etc. There’s nothing viler than a driver waiting for me to cross the street and inching his vehicle bit by bit for every step I take. What is so difficult about waiting for someone to cross the street? Are drivers really in that much of a hurry that they don’t care about making someone nervous while crossing the street? I’m not tooting my own horn here. This is coming from someone that was hit by a car…at a stop sign no less.
Maybe drivers need to take into consideration that man had two feet before they had four wheels. Did you know that a human being is a lot more vulnerable than a car? Oh, the wondrous things I learned in grade 11 biology. After all a dent on the hood of a car is the equivalent of a broken bone, as oil spilled is the equivalent to a puddle of blood. Perhaps drivers will only get the point when they witness something tragic with their own eyes.
So just a note for drivers; be patient. Yes you will make it to your destination, and you don’t have to threaten someone else’s life in the process. Remember, the pedestrian still has the right of way. Don’t forget it.

WinterCity/Winterlicious

It’s that time of year again ladies and gents, Winter City festival is just around the corner (January 25 - February 7, 2008); a 14-day city-wide celebration of Toronto's unparalleled culinary experiences.

WinterCity - a 14-day celebration of culture, creativity and cuisine
January 25 - February 7, 2008

Winterlicious - the ever popular Prix-Fixe prmotion, mouth-watering Culinary Events & the new Chef Series
January 25 - February 7, 2008

DiDi's Rants - Common Courtesy…reality or urban legend….

Lately, I’ve been thinking urban legend. What happened to the days where men opened the door for you, or when was the last time you gave your seat on a crowded bus to the elderly or a woman with child. Now-a-days, those small acts of kindness are few and far between. It’s like this city is running ramped with people who act like they have never been breastfed.

But what’s the problem really T.O? Are we so in a rush that we forget to do one kind deed that might make someone smile? The answer is YES! I’m originally from a town where people aren’t moving so fast. So we tended to see those who sometimes get left behind. But Toronto has a different dynamic. Everything is faster paced so by the time we get to the bus we are too exhausted and may not notice the old lady with the can with no chair, or we notice but are too tired to get up. Or when we open the door, we dash right through paying no mind to the person behind us.

Now on the other side of the coin, common courtesy is also a personal choice. No one can enforce it, because in doing so, especially in public, you sort of are breaking that courtesy rule yourself. I heard a story of a friend who had just been berated by some loud mouth on the bus for not getting up for a woman and a child. Yet what that “Flapper Gap” didn’t know was that my friend did not see the lady and had she had the “common” decency to ask politely things may have ended different.

Lucky for us the solution is simple, be kind. Yes that’s it. Try to do one kind thing, or good deed, everyday. You’ll find that at the end of the day it’s kindness that makes you feel good.

That’s my Real Talk…Toronto

Monica Gives Birth

Congratulations to R&B superstar Monica and fiancé “Rocko” Hill they welcomed their second baby boy Romelo Montez Hill; the baby weighed in at 5 lbs., 6 oz. and was 19½ inches long.

Janet Jackson’s New Video“Feedback”

2008 WEEKLY EVENTS!!

DiDi's Rants - Resolutions…we’ve all made them

Resolutions…we’ve all made them to some degree and now it’s actually time to keep them. This year I promised to take more time for me. So seeing how my resolution is so vague, I could stay at home and watch TV every night and would have still kept it…sorta…

But what is it about resolutions that are so hard to keep and follow through. You know they say that 35% of people break their resolutions within the first month. Now that’s only in January.

I figure it’s because it is so cold. I mean think about it. A lot of resolutions have something to do with health and fitness. I mean you might start well; you might really be into it, wake up at 5 in the morning for a nice jog or pay for a gym pass. But then eventually it does get colder, and eventually harder and harder to find your way to the gym. Then it snows and going for that jog becomes the furthest from your mind.

But that can’t be the only reason. I also think that the fact that some people make there resolutions under the influence, wouldn’t help either. You know what I’m talking about. It’s 11:30pm on New Years Eve, and you have been plied with all the champagne and Polar Ice that you can handle and someone pops the question “So what is your New Years Resolution?” Then when you can finally get your minds to think somewhat straight, you say the first thing that pops into mind.

Either way there New Year is here, and whether you keep that resolution or not try to remember one thing, It’s a new year, so technically, it’s a new you, so make it work and make the best of it.

And that’s my Real Talk… Toronto

CONCERT LISTINGS - TORONTO

DANCING WITH THE STARS
Jan. 7
Air Canada Centre
40 Bay St.
416 815-5500
http://www.theaircanadacentre.com/

OZZIE OSBOURNE/ROB ZOMBIE
Jan. 21
Air Canada Centre
40 Bay St.
416 815-5500
http://www.theaircanadacentre.com/

MICHAEL BUBLE
Jan. 24
Air Canada Centre
40 Bay St.
416 815-5500
http://www.theaircanadacentre.com/

MIKA
Jan. 29
Kool Haus
132 Queen's Quay E.
416 869-0045
http://www.theguvernment.com/

Chris Breezy being sued by his set designer

Chris Breezy being sued by his set designer as he tours across the U.S. -the singer's set designer is suing him for breach of contract, according to TMZ. John Troxtel claims in a federal lawsuit he filed Christmas Eve that while he was paid for some of his labor, "extra work was required and requested." He says an oral agreement was made but that the touring company has refused to make good on its promise. Troxtel, who is seeking more than $1 million in damages, is also reportedly suing Brown for unjust enrichment. ...