COVER UP ! Mr. Frapu Edition

One of my greatest fat-free, guilt indulgence is listening to the ear-friendly cover version over the monsoon, unpredictable weather. Hope it shall give us a new level of understanding and appreciation. Let me turn up a few good ones and share them ...



1. Sway – Rosemary Clooney & Perez Prado
Because it becomes the opening theme of Repo Men – a futuristic thriller flick by Jude Law. Original mambo at its best!





2. I Want You – Madonna & Massive Attack
A soulful signature Motown-ish tune turns into a semi-noir composition and still retain a hauntingly seduceful vocal. Marvin still approves. Guaranteed.






3. La Vie en Rose – Pascal of Bollywood
This timeless repertoire reinterpreted and revisited with a dish of Indian flavor. Imagine tandoori and curry fine dining in the stylish Cafe de Flore. Melting pot should sound like this!







4. Aksi Kucing – White Shoes & The Couples Company
Dear Warung Shanghai Blues .... this should be your in-house anthem!








5. C’est Magnifica – Kay Starr
What’s not to like Cole Porter simplicity yet majesty-honesty-reality: “When love comes in and take you for a spin o la la c’est magnifica .... When every night your love want hold you tight o la la c’est magnifica .... But when one day your love want drifts away o la la well it’s so tragica ... But when once more he whispered j’tadore c’est magnifica




6. I’m In The Mood for Love – Jamiroquai
Jay Kay flexes his acid jazz modus operandi into a sun-drenched, up-lifting reggae arrangement.







7. Cry Me A River – Dinah Washington
Because the swingin’ Miss D delivers it from the heart.








8. It’s Only A Paper Moon – James Taylor
Easy and classy. Full moon panorama is only an optional.








9. That’s All - Eliane Ellias
São Paulo-born, Manhattan-based pianist Eliane Elias performs this brush-stroked ballad and gonna touch the inner you. Elias’ pretty pianisms complement her breathy Portuguese/English contralto. Dear Oom Peter Gontha, please bring her back next year at Java Jazz Festival stage.




10. Wishing on a Star – Paul Weller
A standard, strictly female “longin’ for lover come-back tune” becomes surprisingly and refreshingly masculine ... thanks Paul!







11. Over The Rainbow – Melody Gardot
The story of how Melody Gardot overcame the effects of a near-fatal accident to become one of the vocal sensations of 2008 is not the most extraordinary thing about the 23-year-old Philadelphia singer-songwriter. It is simply that here is a voice in a million; one that touches the soul. It would take a heart of stone to remain unmoved by the poignant classic, an irresistible, Brazilian take on Somewhere Over The Rainbow. And when the song is over, the Melody lingers on . . .

12. Mercy Mercy Me (Ten Piedad de Mi) – Ottmar Liebert
His ability to take a melody, weave a fine tapestry and time seems to stand still...









13. Nobody Does It Better – Radiohead
One of the coolest song ever - being twisted and inspire the listener to be uplifted and reflective in equal measure.

Songs – Under Cover. Miss Mocca Edition

“Nothing’s new under the sun,” said a wise man. But that doesn’t mean life will bored you to death. Thank heaven for the restless-musical soul for giving a new beat for these ones used-to be hit songs. Hit it!

1. The King of Pain – Alanis Morissette
As the kid of 90’s I didn’t know this song was a cover version of Sting’s song. It was so now back then when Alanis sang it on her accoustic album.





2. If I Ain’t Got You – Maroon 5
Suprised to see this tune on their new album, Hands All Over. It’s soo...Alicia Keys and no American Idol’s female contestants could ever nail this song. But bam! Adam “melancholy bad boy” Levine bring it and sing it like a broken hearted white chicks. I feel your pain “sista!”




3. Take a Bow – Lea Michelle (OST Glee)
I’m not a big fan of Rihanna and this song. But when watching Rachel Berry sang this song whole heartedly on one episode of Glee...this song get stuck in my head. You really put out quite show, miss Michelle.


4. Cherish – MYMP
This filipino duo never fail to soothed me with their cozy accoustic tune. Their version one of Madonna’s hits on the 80’s sounds yummy and cherry.






5. Always be My Baby – David Cook
I gasped when David Cook sang this song on season 7 American Idol. Mariah Carey’s buble gum hits suddenly sounds like a heartful love song written by a desperately in love heartfelt guy.





6. L.O.V.E – Joss Stone
Short. Simple. Powerful. You just fall in love with Joss’s strong voice.









7. Your Song – Ewan McGregor (OST Moulin Rouge)
Did you see the movie? Did you see Ewan’s expression when he sang it to Nicole “the courtesan” who he fell for at the first sight? Oh how wonderful life is...







8. Pergi Tanpa Pesan – Sore (OST Berbagi Suami)
I’ll tell you what you shouldn’t do when you play this song. Stay away from sharp objects or any deadly liquid.






9. Fire – Des’ree & Babyface
It’s a sexy sexy sexy duet! You couldn’t resist their lusty chemistry when listening to every beat of this cover version of Bruce Springsteen’s song.





10. What it feels like for a girl (OST Glee)
A girl’s song cover by a bunch of Glee hunky guys? Waw! After all this is not just some random girl. It’s Lady Madonna’s.

Let’s tune in! – Miss Mocca is in da house

Music is my morning mood’s saviour. I’m not a sun-shinny person in the morning but with the right tunes (and the right amount of caffeine) I become sunnier than little miss sunshine.

I’m slightly a music whore, never stick to one genre. I sing along to every song that caught in my ear and stuck in my head. Sometimes a song gives you chill, sometimes it’s like a pill that you need to take on everyday, over and over again. Stunned with the lyrics as if it was the story of your life. Tune in for more beats that always play on my mind


1. Jagged Little Pill – Alanis Morissette
She got my heart in her pocket and I don’t think it’s ironic. Broken heart sometimes push your creative limit beyond your expectations. Almost every lyrics of her song in this album screamed like a wounded eagle. To all heartbroken, play “You oughta know” while burning your ex’s photo. Your aura will be healed ;)




2. Marvin’ the Album – Frente!
Aww…aww…aww…awesome! This album is like the definition of walking on sunshine. Every tunes lift your mood to a brighter level. “Accidently Kelly Street” and a bowl of “bubur kacang ijo” will do wonders to your manic Mondays.







3. OST 3 Hari untuk Selamanya – Float
Do you remember that family road trip to Puncak, back when you were young and innocent. Sitting at the back of your daddy’s car, looking at “pohon cemara” while singing “Naik-naik ke Puncak Gunung” and eating “jagung bakar?” That’s exactly how I feel about this album. Every melodies take you somewhere, walking down to memory lane. My favorites are definitely “Pulang” and “Sementara”. (Note: Stay away from sharp objects while listening to “Sementara”. Sip that hot cocoa instead and hold your pillow tight).


4. Centralismo – Sore
I’m a laid-back person who enjoy nothing but “leyeh-leyeh” and “ngopi-ngopi”. And this super cool band named Sore put a tune into it. Their music, just like their name, so soothe and comforting. Grouchy morning, hectic day...then come Sore to the rescue. A cup of hot pepermint tea never taste so delightful with the accompany “No Fruits for Today”.



5. The Boy Who Knew Too Much – Mika
Cotton candy, giant lollipop, strawberry milkshake, fluffy pinky stuffs, rainbow and all the technicolor things. That’s what I “see” whenever I listen to this wonder boy of Mika. Trapped in endless deadline? Friday night’s overtime? Bottleneck traffic? Try a tune or two…wonderland that you’ll be…eating cotton candy on mary-go-round. “No giving up when you’re young and you want some!”



6. OST Glee
As a fan of musical movies, of course I’ve got to have one of the soundtrack on my list! Glee is on the top my mind right now cause I constantly put it on my playlist. You know the songs already so it’s easy to sing along. Sometimes I enjoy the cover version better than the original one. Rihanna should bow to Rachel Berry for her whole-hearted’s rendition of “Take a Bow”.




7. Absolution – Muse
I rock sometimes, although not too loud. Muse comes with the right dose. I find out the best time listening to this hard-rocking brit is during cardio sessions. “Time is running out” the best anthem to make all that calories running away!






8. Alright, Still - Lily Allen
Dear oh dear, if you want to cursed in most sweet-sarcastic-polite-melodious way…learn from miss Allen. You’ll learn how to handle those girls who dress like a cunt at the club on “Friday Night”, “Smile” to your ex’s bad luck, eating those spaghetti bolognese and stil looks like Kate Moss and “Everything’s Just Wonderful”. Allright, Lily!!




9. Kamar Gelap - Efek Rumah Kaca
If you sick with those "alay" band with their melancholy-cheesy-"menye2" songs, this band of three it's the right choice. They sing about things you don't really care but you enjoy it anyway. They don't make a lot of love songs but I'm falling deeply in love with their simple-yet-provoking lyrics.

Play It Again, Sam! - by Mr. Frapu

I always believe in this tested-and-true formula: Good times = good friends + good food + good music.
Best buddy. Check.
Foodie. Well-stocked.

Then if you lack the latter or ain’t got no clue to play your selection from illegally download of tunes du jour... Please note: handpick and select great movie soundtrack instead! (Add two non movie titles for pumping up the scene) Because badly mix melody can ruin the whole event! Please ... don’t depend entirely on your iPod Genius Mix either. Don’t mind to share my “fascinating rhythm” list for a fun-filled soire...

1. 2046 Soundtrack
Shigeru Umebayashi Rumba Version of 2046 main theme impress, seduce and always give a heartfelt, superb enjoyment. Thanks to Wong Kar Wai, he also opens the door for me to appreciate and embrace Xavier Cugat repertoire. Siboney, Sway and Xmas Song are forever treasures in the CD! This is one of those soundtrack albums that can comfortably stand on its own feet. A talented mixture of ethereal, dramatic and nostalgic music. (PS: Too bad, what a shame....a local movie titled “Berbagi Suami” was totally inspired by the whole contents and its soundtrack yielded same tone and manner sound).


2. Kissing Jessica Stein Soundtrack
Immaculately flawless and demurely laid back are the essence of this urbanely jazz selection. In fact, this is the premiere CD that I obliged to get a long-lustful affair with Verve Jazz Diva namely Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday, Dinah Washington, Blossom Dearie, Ella Fitzgerald, Peggy Lee, Anita O Day, Carmen Mc Rae, Shirley Horn and the contemporary muse, Diana Krall. (PS: A lime + minty mojito would be a perfect match...guaranteed)



3. Women on Top Soundtrack
I thank this CD as it re-introduces me to fall (deeply) in love with Bossanova. I also now include Portuguese as one of the sexy language ... Pleasant sound, easy listening and this is the kind of music you’d play for relaxing or romantic evening. (PS: Don’t forget spicy salsa and tapas assortment, fajitas…anyone? Plus a big jug of frozen margarita)




4. What Women Want Soundtrack
An interesting mix of old and new compilation, emphasizing on big band swing era. Three cuts from Frank Sinatra (arranged and conducted by Nelson Riddle) and entries from Sammy Davis Jr., Nancy Wilson, and Tony Bennett sew up the soulful crooning of the velvet age. Lou Rawls and the Temptations replace their modern soul grooves with lush orchestrations. Skip track 5 and 10 and it just perfectly fit the mood. Classy! (PS: A sinful smoked ham, mushroom, onion omellete + crunchy french fries + mouth-watering sausage + potato salad came to mind whilst I listen the CD... A mis-match or ideal combo? Don’t care)

5. Hollywood, Mon Amour
Famous 80’s movie songs reinvented and rearranged by Marc Collins of Nouvelle Vague. Perfect for hang over or Sunday late lazy brunch – the track revisits a genre, a period, retaining only the basic skeleton (melody and lyrics) to demonstrate that by arranging them differently they can take on a new life while still respecting the original. This is not history revisited but a part of musical history rewritten. The guest vocalists gently transport us to the retro 80’s and present the sultry cum silky version of A View to a Kill / Call Me / Footloose / What a Feeling / When Doves Cry / Eye of the Tiger / Together in Electric Dreams and many 80’s smash hits. (PS : Pancake, waffle, maple syrup, blueberry sauce, organic honey, hash brown, caesar salad, lightly toasted full grain wheat bread + bitter marmalade, no sugar orange juice, verbena tea, coffee au lait, ice Milo, Horlicks .... are compulsory)


6. Big Band Bossa Nova by Quincy Jones
Another fabulous feel good nostalgia recording that makes you want to throw a cocktail party! It’s just like a time travel escapade to the suburban set and penthouse parties circa ultra chic 50’s and 60’s in Manhattan whilst Rock Hudson, Julie London, Doris Day, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr, Kirk Douglas, Grace Kelly, Shirley MacLaine and Audrey Hepburn were the guest of honors. Soul Bossa Nova takes a special position mostly because it has been used in so many occasion and played in the coolest venue, the trendiest Lounge bars and most conservative country clubs! A must have collection. (PS: It’s cocktail party time! Shaken. Stirred. Sip the martini and let’s dance)

7. Verve Remixed part 1-4
Verve Remixed has been in the planning stages for years, with in-house producers inviting an international cast of remix artists and dee jays to select songs from the label's vaults. The results are tremendously successful and emerged the new breed called electro, chill, or nu jazz. True gem. Highly recommended for dinner parties, evening high tea, pre club warm up or simply watch the sun sets from the beach house veranda. Sexy and hip. Pretty impossible to put down. (PS: Inter-continental canape and cold cuts, bubbly champagne and ice rose wine are necessary)

The Immaculate Fantasy Duets - delicately stirred by Mr. Frapu & Miss Mocca

Gratefully thanks to superlative wizard called technology the impossible becomes possible. The result? Incredibly awesome! As examplified by those ingenious people behind the recording labels. They are able to raise the dead and it’s not the miracle. The voice of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Elvis Presley, just as fresh as the lovely sunshine. They harmoniously sing and duet with the living, healthy person!

If we could pair some names here’s the contender ...

1. Waljinah and Sarah Brightman
The two can pitch higher notes in flawless way and still vigorously healthy too ... can anybody enlist the perfect songs?



2. James Brown and Benjamin Sueb
It definetely defies the gravity as both are 100 % soulful genius!




3. Sore and Barry White
Silky velvety voice the two share produces a lullaby to an enchanting lingering-sensual journey!






4. Sari “White Shoes & The Couples Company” and Antonio Jobim
Sari possess imitable vintage sound that encounter a sweet trip to memory lane!




5. Lady Gaga and Kitaro
Two extravagant personalities collide…it’ll be mind blowing! Rrraaaa..raaaa…roo ma ma ma!!




6. Zac Efron-Vanessa Hudgens and Cory Monteith-Lea Michele
It’s like the ultimate fantasy duets to all high school girls (or the 15 yo. inside of miss Mocca ;) They should do mashed-up “Breaking free/Don’t stop believing” it will knock my socks off!





7. Mika and Freddie Mercury
Picture it. Two flamboyant boys sharing the stage of Wembley stadium. Entertain to the max!

Mmmmmmm “Greatest Hits” - remix by Mr. Frapu

Earthlings ... we are so bountiful blessed in many ways !! Our sensory delights in all sugar and spice ... naughty and nice ... :p
What sounds make you go high ...
What eatery delights make you go ehmmm ...
What smell turns you on ...

1. French Macaroon
Delectable colorful meringue crisp biscuit ... So many flavors ... so hard to pick yet so notoriously difficult to make ... This petite creation makes Oprah go ehmmmmmm ....






2. Clean Men Fragrance
Closest thing to straight-ahead shower smell. Pristinely fresh since the embracing aroma of lime, grapefruit, clove, lavender and musk awaken your mind and enrich your senses. Masculine, elegance, distinction and gentlemanly discretion.






3. Xavier Cugat
Arranger cum businessman cum cartoonist. Resides in US. Born in Spain. Chill out in Havana. Popularized Spanish tunes into mainstream listener in America. Wong Kar Wai immortalizes him. Woody Allen adores him. The Simpson pays tribute to him. What not to cherish ... from Siboney to Manhattan to Perfidia ... Cugat remains the Mambo King!




4. Coco Chanel
Tan, smooky, husky, witty, charming ... all superlatives belong to Mademoisalle Chanel. Born as a peasant, spend pre-teen in orphanage, enjoy a lavish life, die in The Ritz. Never married but (hurrahhhh) has many affairs with remarkable figures at her time. A very fine example of how to live life at the fullest.
PS: A trip to Paris is not complete without drop by @ Rue Cambon. Her tribute to luxe-simplicity makes the stuff bearing the inter-locking C logo an object of desire ... (and makes the women go hmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm)




5. Blossom Dearie
A distinctive, girlish voice, crisp, impeccable delivery, and an irrepressible sense of playful swing made Blossom Dearie one of the most enjoyable singers of the vocal era. Her warmth and sparkle ensured that she'd never treat standards as the well-worn songs they often appeared in less capable hands. Listen to her and the serenity New York will come to mind! Mmmmm in another level ... I suppose ;)




6. Beautiful Tomorrow by Blue 6
House groove has never been so seducing and smooth... Feel the pulse of stripped-down, naked vibe urban soul. It’s like prelude to a luxurious sensual chill out evening. Play "Music and Wine" ... and various mmmm will come your way !!!







7. A bar of dark chocolate
And God created the chocolate. Popularized by the Mayans, worshiped by the Aztec ... and branded by the modern society namely as Godiva, Hershey, Lindts, Toblerone, Meiji, Cadburry, Silver Queen (the list is endless). One of the affordable luxury that still makes me (and you) go ehmmmmm.






8. Marvin Gaye
If temptation has a name it’s gotta be the marvelous Marvin Gaye. Son of a preacher man slash the prodigal son slash the sexiest Motown star. Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps he’s now “reborn” into the talented man called John Legend.