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#hello to the new addition to my bias line <3
strawberrycola · 3 days
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hello. i made a very long, very indulgent addition to the sam and max subreddit post earlier, and decided to make it its own post because i had way too many thoughts for a reblog. and the idea of clogging notes was eating away at my brain like mice eat a cheese. this is mostly just train of thought, so i apologise if it's complete nonsense. i've just thought a lot about sam and max's relationship, and the connection lgbt (and neurodivergent, for that matter) fans have had to the series, from my perspective since i was like 8. obviously that's gonna be tinted thru a tumblr lens, because ftmp that's where i see The Good Stuff. and i'm gay as hell, so there's bias. ok read more time kiss kiss.
anyhoozles, coincidentally i've been back on my sam and max bullshit recently, as i finally got a chance to play "this time it's virtual". and discovered vr is not my thing.
so to start, listen...i don't think sam and max's relationship is quite as cut and dry as i believe myself and perhaps many others would imagine/hope. i'm eyeing the "susan" gag from the aformentioned ttiv, in particular. but as your resident specialist in "complex and obscure knowledge of three series total or so", the question of sam and max's relationship has been here since the very beginning of the official comics. like. this has been a thing. pretending it's new is foolhardy. and wrong. obviously there's "like butch and sundance", the wedding toppers, hell, the devs of the telltale game trilogy lampshade their relationship a very decent amount, both in the game itself and in the commentary. at the end of 209, "chariot of the dogs", they directly bring it up during the final cutscene tie straightening maneuver max does. one of the devs literally gets excited about it, iirc. and one of my personal favourite examples is "do you find my warmth...alarming, sam?" from 305, "the city that dares not sleep."
that, in particular, is one of several lines directly from MR. PURCELL HIMSELF, that he gave to the devs each game as lines that must be in the game.
and speaking of season 3, i'd like to mention 305, "they stole max's brain".
(i am now holding "noir sam" so close to my chest, jsyk. that trope means the world to me. it has influenced SO much of my work, and i still use napalm's playthrough on youtube as a sleep aid. REMASTER WHEN.)
of course i and many others latched onto that shit, are you kidding me???? that whole episode was RIPE for hurt/comfort. minor spoiler warning for those that would mind, it's a roaring rampage of revenge plot. at least for the first 30 minutes or so. it's part of a long history between the two of freaking the hell out the second they're separated from each other in a way that doesn't end in like, five minutes. (305. if you know, you know. fkin brutal, man.) sam, in the second act of the game, has been affected by an alternate reality plot, and fully believes he has carried max's brain in a jar his whole LIFE and seemingly has no plans to stop doing so!! it's part of a season where the WHOLE PLOT revolves around the nature of their relationship and how it could change. you don't have to be a shipper yourself to understand how that could be incredibly compelling to the people that fancy them as a couple.
and it's a fandom that i give a lot of credit to lgbt people for revitalising in the mid 2010s~ (i was already a fan by then, and i'm still really curious as to why it blew up so much, but hey, who's complaining?), as well as in 2021~ in response to skunkape's remaster of telltale's season one "save the world" installment, and the release of ttiv. (obviously the actual demographic spread across platform to platform is a varied thing, etc. etc. i'd like to stay firmly in my lane, and i don't wanna overstate any particular demos in my discussion here, or hyperbolise too much.)
Obviously, you don't have. to be a shipper. completely fine. pretty common. Who Give A Care. and we're not even gonna get into the "not suitable" content. i can't fault anyone for not being cool with the actual sexualisation of childhood stuff they like. that's something i'm pretty "ambivalent with a leaning towards discomfort" about for quite a few things myself. and it turns out there wasn't even any "unmentionable graphic imagery" to begin with. shocking. HOWEVER. i'm fascinated but not completely surprised by the blatant homophobia and disgust towards the fanart of the ship.
like, to be nuanced about things, and it's not like the admin is extending the same courtesy here, this is clearly an older fan. like i think from around the same timeframe i was first introduced to it, give or take. maybe they missed a lot of the tumblr mid-2010s activity, or maybe that's going in to their Burning Disgust towards Yaoi Sam and Max Kissing Not Clickbait. i know the fanart had some level of cross-posting, at least on youtube as dubs iirc. OR maybe i'm a fool who is actively tricking you with my words and none of the above is true at all. however...pal. again, in my opinion, we owe those lgbt and neurodivergent kids and adults our whole rights as a fan community. you don't have to like it, but you do have to be respectful, jerkbag.
i can't be the only one who was devastated by the drought of content post "the devil's playhouse". we had a [1] singular whole webcomic to tide us over, with the occasional sketch on purcell's social medias. of course, there was a small community of fans, and some incredible stuff they made, looking at you Sam Dies At The End. i weeped. but it was slow and steady. and then, out of seemingly nowhere, people en masse suddenly REALLY CARED ABOUT THE THING THAT BROUGHT ME SO MUCH JOY AS A LITTLE GUY. like, fuck man...i first found out what autism was when i was real young because max's character description on wikipedia contained speculation as to whether or not he has it. (jury's still out, ...but we all have our little comforts. okay? also speaking of, "is max gay?" is like. one of the longest ongoing bits. like cmon dude.) now granted, by 2021 i was a little old for the new wave of shipping that sprouted up. tiktok edits are Not Always My Thing. but that's okay!!!! it doesn't need to be my thing. i'm really glad they're having fun. :] and i don't want to come across as like. infantilising in my discussion of the younger fanbase, so i apologise if my tone has come across that way. it really is simply the comforting thought that kids like me can experience what i had.
i remember how much fun my friends and i used to have when we were 16! (hi xavier, if ur reading this. miss you, buddy. :]) we got silly with it! we got angsty about season 3!! we wrote fanfiction, hell, an amazing fic my friend wrote that i beta'd is still the most kudos'd shipping fic on ao3!! the fanartists i liked had such an INCREDIBLE grasp on how to write sam and max's banter. it was a good time! and knowing these characters are giving joy to a new generation makes me giddy, dude. hell yeah! get "feral" or whatever the hell it is these days. find comfort in characters that don't really care about anyone's opinion except each other's, who get to be as weird and annoying and gross as they want all the time. that tend to punch up. that show love differently than what's seen as conventional. that end up saving the day, not even because they have to, so much as they genuinely enjoy each adventure together. max was my personal opportunity to feel comfort in all my weird freaky mannerisms i kept safe behind the polished exterior i had to wear as a kid. i found solace in the thought that those two were practically made for each other, as i stumbled through my own gender and sexuality crises. i loved how dry and dark sam was allowed to be. the banjo bits, the phone jokes, the repartee. so much of this series has influenced me, and helped me become who i am, as a creator and as a functional guy who Does Things.
so that's a small bit of why i think sam and max had, and still has, a lot of appeal to people that grew up like me. there's a lot of rough stuff i went through that made the idea of a couple of anarchist detectives completely devoted to one another that go around the seedy underbelly of america saving the day ("almost on purpose!") really, really interesting. steve purcell is unapologetic about how gross america can be, especially in the comics. at the heart of it, sam and max do what they do both because they enjoy it, and they enjoy each other. and i think, to overlook that, is to miss some of the whole point of the franchise. oh, i'm sorry, giant cockroaches literally everywhere is fine, streets crusted in various goos, totally chill, but gay kissing is the thing that Absolutely Nauseates you? plugging your ears and screaming gross seems like...kind of a weak move here, ngl. a work that doesn't shy away from how confusing and wild life can be has a decent chance to be compelling to marginalised groups, who often have to put up with the more disgusting aspects of reality anyways. at least these two odd guys are having fun with it. sam and max understand each other, each of their strengths and flaws, and choose to be with each other every day because of and in spite of them. they choose to love where they are, because of and in spite of its many, many, many flaws. they choose to be who they are because they love what they do. there's something touching there, if you like to think about such things. there are some occasions i find myself wishing sam and max's relationship was more...concrete. i wish we had an answer to Does Sam And Max Is Gay? but at the same time, being vague and obtuse is like. their whole shtick. so maybe it's just right how it is. and uh. obviously this is a fictional series. in the end, it's all how we enjoy it that matters, and it's not the end of the world. and as a final cherry on top, nothing beats turning to my husband and asking, "is sam and max queerbait", before delighting in the 3 hr conversation that follows.
and to get to the point. as the old adage unfortunately goes, it's...okay. to not like...ships. and i can even somewhat understand being frustrated by a subreddit you created being "flooded" by a thing you're not into. only somewhat, because a: we've always been here, and b: because you can. just not look at it? idk if reddit has a filtering system, but. the scroll wheel is free. to throw a tantrum and ban topics because you're personally offended people think they're gay? you might be missing out on some of the most fun you can have outside the series, and you're spitting in the face of the people who held this fandom up on their shoulders like atlas.
and you're being a dick about it.
TO CONCLUDE:
wah wah they're gay gay homosexual gay and they don't pay taxes. deal or die, fake fan.
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saki-sugared · 4 years
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COMMISSIONS OPEN: IkeSen/ Vamp/ Rev, MLQC, and MidCin
1. Full Colour: 45 USD
Character’s Pet* +20 USD • Additional Character +30 USD per character
Complimentary flowers and/ or blurred background will be added if it suits the design. I’ll usually put the suitor’s official flowers in, but am open to any special flower requests to make it more personal for you! 
Half-body/ Bust-up shots only. Full body shots are not available at the moment.
2. Grayscale: 25 USD 
Character’s Pet* +15 USD • Additional Character +20 USD per character
Complimentary flowers will be added if it suits the design. I’ll usually put the suitor’s official flowers in, but am open to any special flower requests to make it more personal for you! 
No background will be added. A black/ grey background can be added if it fits though, but in my experience for grayscale designs, it clutters the artwork. 
Half-body/ Bust-up shots only. Full body shots are not available at the moment.
3. Sketch: 15 USD 
Character’s Pet* +8 USD • Additional Character +10 USD per character
Complimentary flowers will be added if it suits the design. I’ll usually put the suitor’s official flowers in, but am open to any special flower requests to make it more personal for you! 
Option 1: Pencil-sketched style. Examples here (1) (2) (3). Personally, I prefer this option as I find it adds charm and personality to the artwork.
Option 2: Line art style. Examples here (1) (2)
>>Commission me here (KO-FI)<<
Hello! I’m a rather new artist to the fandom. You can call me Saki 😄. I work as an illustrator/ graphic designer in real life, but this is my first time opening up commissions as a fanartist. I initially did fanart as a way to take a break from my working life, and it has blossomed into quite a healthy following now and I cannot be more grateful. As this is still my first time opening up commissions, I am keeping a limit to the number of commissions I am managing for now, just so I can find my rhythm and have things under control. You’ll find the number of slots available on my Ko-Fi page (link below).
As mentioned in the title, any suitor from IkeSen/ Vamp/ Rev, MLQC, and MidCin can be commissioned. 
You’ll notice I don’t up my price for Bust-up to Half-body shots. That is because in Bust-up shots (Louis is an example of a bust-up shot), I put in more detail in both the drawing and colouring than in a Half-body (Zero is an example of a half-body shot). More detail or more view of your man-- the choice is yours! 😄
The reason why I am not opening full-body commissions for Full Colour and Grayscale pieces yet is the same as above; I’m fairly new and want to do get a sense of rhythm (time management and all) first. Don’t worry, I plan to open them up in the near future. 
Mutual respect between artist and commissioner would be appreciated. You know, do unto others as you would have them do unto you, don’t be rude without cause, etc.
“Can you draw my Original Character (OC) with a suitor?” Unfortunately, no. Not now, at least. Same reason as above. BUT, if you’re really interested and have a solid physical description of your OC, DM me! We might find some way to make it work! I understand how much OCs mean to their writers ❤️
“I want a commission but I don’t know what to commission!” Let’s talk! If you’re eyeing for a commission, I’m sure you already have a bias(es) in mind. Slide into my DMs and we can discuss the types of pose/ elements/ setting/ outfit for your men! I don’t bite, I swear. You can even hit me up with an idea you have in mind and we can discuss it together. 
*Character pets For suitors who don’t have a canon pet (eg. Blanc from IkeRev), I don’t mind drawing any other pet you request. Same applies for MLQC men. 
I will NOT draw... Nudity, yaoi/ yuri, furries, chibis, pedophilia, rape.
Do not hesitate to DM me any questions you have. (Last Updated: 21 Feb 2020)
>>Commission me here (KO-FI)<<
Terms of service below:
Regarding Payment
Once I’ve received the full payment and have started working on your piece, no refund will be given.
I have the right to cancel any commission midway. Should the cause of cancellation be from issues solely on my side, a full refund will be given.
If you do not respond within one month or have been delaying your replies for too long, I have the right to cancel the commission without refunding.
Regarding Process
Minor changes are allowed (eg. Change the colour of the flowers), but there will be no major revisions (eg. Change the species of flowers) once confirmed. 
I will open a Trello board where I will upload WIPs of your piece to keep you updated. This Trello board is only viewable once payment is made. It is shared across all current clients.
Regarding Finished Artwork
The client will receive the final artwork via email in JPG format, 300dpi, RGB colour. 
The final artwork, when posted publicly by me, will be watermarked with my signature and URLs of my art platforms. In the email mentioned above, the artwork will come without the watermarks of my URLs (though signature will remain present).
I am allowed to use the final artwork for self-promotion and it will be published publicly on my art platforms. 
Once again, do not hesitate to DM me any questions you have.
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nyxhikari · 6 years
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MyName Mixtape 1
Welcome to the wonders of MyName @lissachan504
 Baby I’m Sorry
One of my favorites and probably one of their most popular in Korea. (Gawd Insoo looks sooooo good in this ughhh I miss him). This is the version they released. A few years later they actually released the whole version – which is about 20 minutes long <3 – some people compare it to BB’s Lie. It also stars Sarang’s dad (if you are familiar with Superman Returns)
 Message
This was their debut song. Pretty catchy and fun to sing along with – OMG they are so young here <3 – NO ONE DIES <-this is rare lol – lalalala a a a a do girl take my message! I actually don’t know the Korean version at all (this one) but can sing it in Japanese.
 Hello Again
Yay!! Now you are on the inside of my “until we say Hello Again” tag I have been using when I post about Insoo. This is one of their Japanese songs – one I think is more up your alley <3 I love these guys more than I should lol
 Hello & Goodbye
Another one I think you will like (and another one that I only know in Japanese) – also Gunwoo looks like Snape in this and it drives me kinda crazy in a not so positive way :D Anyway this is pretty early on too.
 Stop the Time
Another shortened version that has an epic 20 minute doppelganger. Insoo is soooooo rude in this XD My baby. ANYWAY, this is only a couple years old and one of the last Japanese version that have full videos – they switched to another company and now are treated more like Japanese artists. Which is good…but it also means watching videos is nearly impossible and itunes doesn’t have their new stuff.
 We Are The Night
ROCKSTAR LOL!! They are a pretty good dance group – my baby Insoo used to do ballet, of course he is perfection incarnate. Not that I am bias or anything!
 Greatest Story Never Told
Another one of my favorites. I think their voices blend so well together <3 and I really love this song. I think it is more in line with what you tend to enjoy too.
 Shirayuki
FROM THEIR MOVIE!! Yes, you read that correctly. They made a movie!! Called Shinookubo Monogatari!! OR Shinokubo Story <3 I LOVE THIS SONG AND WANT TO SING IT IN KARAOKE SO SO SO FREAKING BAD…
 JAPANESE MESSAGE
Cause I couldn’t resist. Sorry.
 Too very so MUCH
I believe this was their last group song to be done in Korean. Very fun and entertaining.
 You… (with Gunwoo and Insoo)
Beautiful <3
 SOLO STUFF
I am 27
Gunwoo (Their leader’s) solo debut song. Not really my cup of tea, but worth putting on the list
 And
 Excuse me while I cry that I don’t have this album yet……..
Naked Love
Insoo’s solo.. I want it so f***ing bad………Like I shouldn’t buy it cause I am broke but….I need it….this is the dance version. I mean I guess technically that is what it is called lol
And for the holiday season, please enjoy this special addition. 
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Top 10 Songs of 2017...so far
Hello, Mansaebebes! 2017 has been an amazing year so far musically, with many new and diverse releases from both rookie and veteran artists. To celebrate what is shaping out to be an amazing year, Mansae Entertainment is proud to share a list of the top K-Pop 10 songs of 2017 so far. Before getting to the list, I would like to stress that this list is only for songs that were released between January and June of 2017. This is also a personal review and, in no way, reflects the opinions of Mansae Entertainment as a whole, but the sole opinions of a single author and his musical tastes.
10. “Laputa (feat. Crush)” - DPR Live
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If you do not listen to DPR Live while you read this, I need you to expose yourself to this talented musician. DPR Live has a type of flow and delivery that, while powerful and impactful, has a form of melancholic calm to it, especially in the work on his debut album “Coming To You Live.” I will admit that I am always reluctant to start listening to Korean hip-hop artists because they often try too hard and appropriate culture to no end, but DPR Live’s music and lyricism drew me in almost instantly. Namely his two tracks, “Laputa” and “Right Here Right Now,” both featuring some of Korean hip-hop's biggest names. “Laputa” appears to get its name from the mythical flying island in “Gulliver’s Travels.” The track’s main hook includes DPR Live comparing his lover's body to a perfectly circular island to explain how perfect her body is, but he continues to explain how here beauty is astronomical, as astronomy is a key point of interest for the island's inhabitants. When Crush delivers his part in the latter half of the songs, his voice truly gives the song an ethereal sense of mystery and dynamics.
9. “Complex” - Zion.T
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I feel like no one really knew what would happen after Zion.T signed with The Black Label, and I feel like everyone approached the “OO” album with an equal sense of hope and apprehension. However, Zion.T showed us that there was definitely nothing to worry about. Not only did he infuse his signature Zion.T “flavor” into all the songs, but he also managed to collaborate with one of K-Pop’s biggest stars, seen when G-Dragon featured on “Complex.” Easily the most anticipated song on the album, "Complex” brought together two of the best lyricists in K-Pop and allowed them to have a back and forth over what it means to have fame and be a musician. Zion.T’s voice drips with melancholy as he croons about his own shortcomings and throws shade at what he views as idol fame before G-Dragon brags back with a rap about the success he has enjoyed while being an idol. Twinkling piano keys, solid snaps, and light drum beats give this amazing piece of lyrical genius its own distinct sound, and the two “Complex” artists delivery give it its life.
8. I’ll Be Yours-Girl’s Day
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I have never been a fan of Girl’s Day. I’d just never taken the time to listen to their music even though I had ample time during their year-long absence. I am admittedly still not a huge fan, but that doesn’t stop “I’ll be Yours” from being a bop. If I could use one word to describe this song it would “VOCALS.” From start to finish they hit us with powerful vocals that, backed by the amazing brassy production, allows them to reach amazing heights. The sassy delivery, the amazing big band feel, and the incredibly grown woman vibes that need to continue as a trend for the rest of 2017, all joined to make this track one of the best bangers of the first half of the year. I know that many felt let down by this comeback, especially after waiting for such a long time, but for me, the track was just what Girl’s Day needed to further solidify themselves as a force in the K-pop industry.
7. Archangels of the Sephiroth(세피로트의 나무)-Stellar
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So, are y’all really still sleeping on Stellar? Are y’all serious? Let me get off my soapbox and talk about this song. “Sting” was one of the best songs of 2016, in my opinion, and “Cry” was also exceptionally good, so I was extremely excited for Stellar to make a comeback, especially after hearing that they raised over 1000% of their Makestar goal. This comeback introduced the new member, Soyoung, in the best way possible. Not only was she given her own spotlight in the MV, but she also was given significant lines, in what was sonically a departure from all of Stellar’s previous works, and K-pop songs in general for that matter. With a name like “Archangels Of The Sephiroth,” I was expecting something different, and Stellar delivered the difference in the best way possible. With an instrumental, that sounds distinctly Middle Eastern, and a jarring almost shouted chorus, the song is a definite earworm. There was no vocal acrobatics, in the song and that was probably for the best, the song gets its distinction from it’s instrumental, and again, I applaud Stellar for taking a different route than most K-pop artists and doing it to great effect. Now, if you guys would stop viewing Stellar as only a “sex” group, and acknowledge their quality music and the countless comebacks that are less suggestive, then we could be cool.
6. Akmu-Reality (리얼리티)
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I loves me some AKMU, I really do, and when I found out that they were getting released from the YG dungeon again after less than a year's time since “Spring,” I was extremely excited. AKMU is one of the groups where, no matter how long they have between releases, they will always be fantastic. Their 2nd full-album “Winter” introduced a plethora of great tracks, but none more so than “Reality.” As a self-proclaimed Veteran K-pop stan, the idea of growing older scares me, especially because I turned 20 fairly recently, but leave it to AKMU to write an upbeat and almost childish song on the subject. With witty lyrics and a signature AKMU delivery, this song was a great way to start the year.
5. Don’t Wanna Cry(울고 싶지 않아)-Seventeen
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Seventeen is my ultimate bias boy group and being so I have come to expect a certain level of off-kilter energy and funk from their title tracks. With “Don’t Wanna Cry” they showed a different side of themselves not yet seen on a lead single. They showed vulnerability. While I am honestly getting tired of EDM songs in K-pop, Seventeen used the sound well and did not let the production overpower their emotions and the song's meaning. This title track is unique because it features the entire rap-line singing and two of the most underrated rappers in the group (Mingyu and Wonwoo) carry the song to its climax. This song is a great addition to Seventeen’s discography and the year in music as a whole, but please……no more EDM, Y'all.
4. 1+1=0(Feat. Dean)-Suran
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Another song about the difficulties of life, especially as a youth. “1+1=0” is the title track off of Suran’s debut solo mini-album and she proved herself a solo musical force. She easily has one of the most unique voices in K-pop, and when paired with Dean, a veteran of collaborating with female artists (see last years “Shut up and Groove” and “And July” by Heize), it was no surprise to me when this song turned out to be an amazing track. A play on words “일” or “il” represents the number one but also means work. The pun being that work and work doesn’t equal anything, and as a rising college junior with a lot on my plate, this song truly spoke to me. Backed by playful guitar strums, this song urges you to not be afraid of relaxing when burdened by work and “just chill.”il” represents the number one but also means work. The pun being that work and work doesn’t equal anything, and as a rising college junior with a lot on my plate, this song truly spoke to me. Backed by playful guitar strums, this song urges you to not be afraid of relaxing when burdened by work and “just chill.”
3. Baby Don’t Like It-NCT 127
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I was not a fan of NCT 127’s debut. "Firetruck" was a HUGE disappointment to me, and the subsequent mini-album was met with similar sentiments. With all that in mind, I was not expecting their sophomore mini-album to be full of certified hits. I have no shame when saying that, in my opinion, every song on this album could be singles. “Baby Don’t Like It” deserved so much more play than it was given. Y’all, Mark and Taeyong did that, and they didn’t just do it, they did it dirty. When Mark delivered the line “I like it when we get closer, when it gets risky,” it was a wrap for me. Taeyong and Mark are honestly some of the best young idol rappers in the industry, and no one was expecting SM to be able to pull off Hip-Hop concepts to the effect that NCT has done. This smooth piece of hip-hop and R&B gold proves that SM can tackle any genre and it is still a staple in my playlists to this day.
2. Signal-Twice
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Twice has truly earned the title of “Nation’s Girl Group.” They constantly deliver bop after bop after bop and “Signal” is no different. I’m not gonna lie, I was a little worried when I found out that Twice was not working with Black Eyed Pilseung for this title track but instead with Mr JYP himself. Granted Park Jinyoung is an amazing producer, but Twice has always seemed to work well without his help, and the JYP Entertainment releases that were not produced by him so far have been consistently good. He shut me up real quick with this Grade A smash. Twice is a girl group that benefits of the quirky factor, and that factor combined with the bounce clap-driven composition and the easy sing-along chorus was enough to launch this song up to the same level of unexpected greatness of Twice’s previous title tracks.
1. Night Rather Than Day(낮보다는 밤)-EXID
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EXID has always been a group with quality music. I’d been a listener of their music even before Hani’s viral fancam, but I didn’t consider myself a fan until LI.E. After that song, I was excited about the group's next release, and even after Solji’s unfortunate hiatus, they managed to cement my status as a Leggo. I am a huge fan of chill pop songs and I’m a huge fan of retro-esque pop songs and “Night Rather Than Day” delivers on both of these aspects. After EXID's skyrocket to popularity with “Up and Down,” I’d come to expect a certain bombastic sound from them, but they seemed to do a complete 180 with this release. The only word I can use to describe my feelings after hearing the song is ‘warm.’ This jam puts me in a good mood every time I hear it and I want to dance through life when the chorus hits. This song truly deserves the number one spot on my list for being a departure from not only earlier EXID songs, but from modern K-pop trends as a whole. Shinsadong Tiger, EXID’s long-time collaborator, really did his thing when he helped to compose this amazing title track. I cannot wait until Solji fully recovers so I can watch the girls do, what has become my favorite EXID song as a whole group.
As I said before, the first half of 2017 has been an amazing year so far with quality content dropping left and right. The rest of my associates at Mansae and I, cannot wait to see what the rest of the year has in store.
-Twonder
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faizrashis1995 · 4 years
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R vs. Python for Data Science
Hello! This Web page is aimed at shedding some light on the perennial R-vs.-Python debates in the Data Science community. As a professional computer scientist and statistician, I hope to shed some useful light on the topic.
I have potential bias: I've written four R-related books, I've given keynote talks at useR! and other R conferences; I currently serve as Editor-in-Chief of the R Journal; etc. But I am also an enthusiastic Python coder, have been for many years. I hope this analysis will be considered fair and helpful. Elegance
Clear win for Python.
This is subjective, of course, but having written (and taught) in many different programming languages, I really appreciate Python's greatly reduced use of parentheses and braces:
if x > y:
  z = 5
  w = 8
vs.
 if (x > y)
{
  z = 5
  w = 8
}
Python is sleek!
Learning curve
Huge win for R.
This is of particular interest to me, as an educator. I've taught a number of subjects -- math, stat, CS and even English As a Second Language -- and have given intense thought to the learning process for many, many years.
To even get started in Data Science with Python, one must learn a lot of material not in base Python, e.g., NumPy, Pandas and matplotlib. These libraries require a fair amount of computer systems sophistication.
By contrast, matrix types and basic graphics are built-in to base R. The novice can be doing simple data analyses within minutes.
Python libraries can be tricky to configure, even for the systems-savvy, while most R packages run right out of the box.
 Available libraries for Data Science
Slight edge to R.
CRAN has over 14,000 packages. PyPI has over 183,000, but it seems thin on Data Science.
For example, I once needed code to do fast calculation of nearest-neighbors of a given data point. (NOT code using that to do classification.) I was able to immediately find not one but two packages in CRAN to do this. By contrast, recently I tried to find nearest-neighbor code for Python and at least with my cursory search in PyPi, came up empty-handed; there was just one implementation that described itself as simple and straightforward, nothing fast.
The following (again, cursory) searches in PyPI turned up nothing: EM algorithm; log-linear model; Poisson regression; instrumental variables; spatial data; familywise error rate; etc.
This is not to say no Python libraries exist for these things; I am simply saying that they are not easily found in PyPI, whereas it is easy to find them in CRAN.
And the fact that R has a canonical package structure is a big advantage. When installing a new package, one knows exactly what to expect. Similarly, R's generic functions are an enormous plus for R. When I'm using a new package, I know that I can probably use print(), plot(), summary(), and so on, while I am exploring; All these form a "universal language" for packages.
Machine learning
Slight edge to Python here.
The R-vs.-Python debate is largely a statistics-vs.-CS debate, and since most research in neural networks has come from CS, available software for NNs is mostly in Python. RStudio has done some excellent work in developing a Keras implementation, but so far R is limited in this realm.
On the other hand, random forest research has been mainly pursued by the stat community, and in this realm I'd submit that R has the superior software. R also has excellent packages for gradient boosting.
I give the edge to Python here because for many people, machine learning means NNs.
Statistical sophistication
Big win for R.
In my book, the Art of R Programming, I made the statement, "R is written by statisticians, for statisticians," a line which I've been pleased to see used by others on occasion. It's important!
To be frank, I find the machine learning people, who mostly advocate Python, often have a poor understanding of, and in some cases even a disdain for, the statistical issues in ML. I was shocked recently, for instance, to see one of the most prominent ML people state in his otherwise superb book that standardizing the data to mean-0, variance-1 means one is assuming the data are Gaussian — absolutely false and misleading.
Parallel computation
Let's call it a tie.
Neither the base version of R nor Python have good support for multicore computation. Threads in Python are nice for I/O, but multicore computation using them is impossible, due to the infamous Global Interpreter Lock. Python's multiprocessing package is not a good workaround, nor is R's 'parallel' package. External libraries supporting cluster computation are OK in both languages.
Currently Python has better interfaces to GPUs.
C/C++ interface and performance enhancement
Slight win for R.
Though there are tools like SWIG etc. for interfacing Python to C/C++, as far is I know there is nothing remotely as powerful as R's Rcpp for this at present. The Pybind11 package is being developed.
In addition, R's new ALTREP idea has great potential for enhancing performance and usability.
On the other hand, the Cython and PyPy variants of Python can in some cases obviate the need for explicit C/C++ interface in the first place; indeed some would say Cython IS a C/C++ interface.
Object orientation, metaprogramming
Slight win for R.
For instance, though functions are objects in both languages, R takes that further than does Python. Whenever I work in Python, I'm annoyed by the fact that I cannot directly print a function to the terminal or edit it, which I do a lot in R.
Python has just one OOP paradigm. In R, you have your choice of several (S3, S4, R6 etc.), though some may debate whether this is a good thing.
Given R's magic metaprogramming features (code that produces code), computer scientists ought to be drooling over R. But most CS people are unaware of it.
Language unity
Sad loss for R.
Python is currently undergoing a transition from version 2.7 to 3.x. This will cause some disruption, but nothing too elaborate.
By contrast, R is rapidly devolving into two mutually unintelligible dialects, ordinary R and the Tidyverse. I, as a seasoned R programmer, cannot read Tidy code, as it calls numerous Tidyverse functions that I don't know. Conversely, as one person in the Twitter discussion of this document noted (approvingly), "One can code in the Tidyverse while knowing very little R."
I've been a skeptic on Tidyverse. For instance,I question the claim that it makes R more accessible to nonprogrammers.
Linked data structures
Win for Python.
Not a big issue in Data Science, but it does come up in some contexts.
Classical computer science data structures, e.g. binary trees, are easy to implement in Python. It is not part of base R, but can be done in various ways, e.g. the datastructures package, which wraps the widely-used Boost C++ library.
Online help
Big win for R.
To begin with, R's basic help() function is much more informative than Python's. It's nicely supplemented by example(). And most important, the custom of writing vignettes in R packages makes R a hands-down winner in this aspect.
R/Python interoperability
RStudio is to be commended for developing the reticulate package, to serve as a bridge between Python and R. It's an outstanding effort, and works well for pure computation. But as far as I can tell, it does not solve the knotty problems that arise in Python, e.g. virtual environments and the like.
At present, I do not recommend writing mixed Python/R code.[Source]-https://github.com/matloff/R-vs.-Python-for-Data-Science
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whatthekpopofficial · 6 years
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10 Of The Absolute Best Songs From U-KISS
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August 28th marks the anniversary of idol group U-KISS! In fact, this talented group is celebrating their 10th anniversary since debut. U-KISS is a special group to me. They were one of the "first" idol groups for me in many ways. They were the first Kpop group I ever saw in concert. They were one of the first groups I ever stanned. Their press conference was the first one I ever attended as a reporter. They were the first group whose fandom I ever officially joined. They were the first group I ever bought merchandise from, and they were also one of the first groups that taught me exactly what it feels like to have a bias (Hello, precious Kevin!) and a bias wrecker (Still looking great, Eli!). As such, U-KISS was an important part of my life and a group that I will always think about with great fondness. Although more groups have entered my life since I first began to love U-KISS, there is no doubt I will always have a special place in my heart for all the wonderful members and their countless, amazing songs. To celebrate 10 years with this influential and talented group, let's look back at ten of their very best title tracks. Since they have so many Japanese releases as well, we will focus on Korean title tracks instead. They are listed in no particular order. 1) "Believe" - 2012 Want a great song that seems to capture the very sound that drew so many people into Kpop around this time? Look no further than U-KISS's "Believe." Mixed with a bright, electronic sound on the beat, their strong vocals and rap lines will still have you singing your heart out all these years later. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P_E0J2WIfw0 2) "0330" - 2011 This is an iconic U-KISS song that will bring a rush of sentimentality to fans as they listen. In fact, I may or may not have teared up watching this MV as I put together this list. For fans, this song will never get old and will forever remind them of one of U-KISS's best eras. https://youtu.be/h1zOhQQpw6U 3) "Neverland" - 2011 "Tell the DJ turn it up up up and da-da-dance a little more." If you can listen to this song without dancing, then I seriously wonder if you're even a Kpop fan at all. The perfect visuals! The dramatic makeup! The difficult dance! The fun beat! The catchy English lyrics thrown in so international fans can sing along too! This, ladies and gentlemen, was the golden era of Kpop at its finest. https://youtu.be/n3dF0Y7deb0 4) "Stop Girl" - 2011 Although "Neverland" may arguably be U-KISS's most famous song, "Stop Girl" is still one of their best! A sexy, hard beat balances out their smooth, clear vocals and gave birth to a new, mature sound for the amazing group. In fact, that strong beat still has such a modern sound that it is still relevant and perfect for Kpop fans today. Add in the crisp music video and you have one of U-KISS's best projects! Fun fact? They also released this song in English! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d_AwyTp9qb0 5) "Man Man Ha Ni" - 2009 Ah, 2009... what a year! Back in this classic era, Kpop music videos might not have had the technology to be super high quality like the videos of today, but they made up for it with amazingly outrageous hair, outfits, and terrific dance songs that were made to get stuck in your head for days. Listen to this song and you will instantly be transported back in time. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=04v7dRrHvbg 6) "Bingeul Bingeul" - 2010 Since U-KISS is primarily active in Japan these days, many newer Kpop fans might not be that familiar with them. If someone were to ask me what their sound was like in early days, I'd tell them that it was a mixture of a young G-Dragon, classic 2NE1, and Brown Eyed Girls. As with most older Kpop videos, it can be hard to find the MVs in HD quality, but this is still such a fun video to watch. This was also one of their first songs to get really popular in Korea, with many other idols doing the dance on variety shows. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtLWGX5yHFs 7) "DORADORA" - 2012 In 2012, U-KISS came for me hard with this deliciously sexy song. Six years later, this song is still a bop and the dance still makes me go crazy! If you don't believe me, check out the choreography for the chorus (thank me later!). "DORADORA" is probably the most quintessential U-KISS song out there and still a fan favorite. Watch it below! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8vfiaNtF9B4 8) "Standing Still" - 2013 "Standing Still" is and forever will be my all-time favorite song from U-KISS! The music video is also a lot of fun and still keeps my attention today, even after seeing it too many times to count. From maknae Dongho's cool, man bun hairstyle and dramatic makeup (still squeal-worthy!) to Kevin's sexy moves front and center for the choreo, from Eli's stunning visuals and gorgeous hair color to AJ's deep, throaty rap, I will never get tired of this MV or song. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bOPHIx81bQE 9) "She's Mine" - 2013 U-KISS has always been known for their great, smooth vocals. As such, it made sense that they focused on vocals and just added in rap features for most of their tracks. With "She's Mine" in 2013, however, they changed things up completely! Leading off with fierce raps, they later transitioned to simpler vocals in the second part of the verse before adding in layered harmonies on the chorus. The sound was fresh, unique, and very sexy, and the result was a song that could easily be played on radios today. In fact, the layered and close harmonies style is something you still hear a lot of medium-tempo tracks from groups like BTS and GOT7. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lL2Gasb6QTg 10) "Quit Playing" - 2014 "Quit Playing" (also known as "Don't Flirt" or "끼부리지마") was something of a shocker for fans when the video was released. The slower track had a very sensuous vibe— something that was further emphasized with the seriously sexy music video. With this video that pushed the limits in Korean music (they even featured a threesome!), U-KISS was making sure everyone knew they were now grown men and more mature, but they were still one of the most relevant groups in Kpop at the time. https://youtu.be/r0pJ-mBHiV0 BONUS: "Stalker" - 2016 With such amazing vocals and great talent, why not show them off? That's exactly what U-KISS did in 2016 with their song "Stalker." The song had another great beat and dance to hook fans, but the special part of the song came via the vocal chops of members Hoon and Soohyun. While Kevin was almost always the most recognized vocalist of the group, Soohyun showed everyone he was a power to be reckoned with when he hit those clear, strong high notes towards the climax of the song. In addition, this was teir last Korean music video to be released and the last video to feature Kevin. As of yet, they have not made a comeback with the remaining members. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3pN7REpLn3I The years have brought many changes, but U-KISS currently has five active members. However, Jun is currently promoting as a member of the temporary unit UNB, and Soohyun is now serving in the military (with others soon to follow). With various other things happening in the members' lives, we don't know when we will next see a release from U-KISS. However, we do know that fans continue to wait for them and the great music they will undoubtedly provide. To continue the celebration, click here to watch a special V Live broadcast from the members! To all the current members (Soohyun, Hoon, Kiseop, Eli, and Jun) and the past members (Alexander, Kibum, AJ, Kevin, and Dongho), I want to say a personal thank you for being such a huge part of my own Kpop journey! Congratulations to U-KISS for 10 amazing years since their debut! We wish you all continued success on your own music journeys! lee1086 is the co-founder and director of What The Kpop. When not writing or editing articles, she is watching Kpop music videos or Korean variety shows. She is a huge fan of Super Junior and the perfection known as Eunsihae. She also loves EXO, SHINee, BIGBANG, and many more. When not obsessing over the flawlessness of Donghae or trying to decide if her SHINee bias is Taemin or Key, she is playing the piano, loving on her dog, and hanging out with her family and friends Media: As Credited Read the full article
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