Paris By Night 79 – Dreams
Thuy Nga’s latest video, Dreams, boosted up more provocative visual than innovative music. From the sexy trio intro, which featured bosomy Nhu Loan, luscious Loan Chau, and juicy Ho Le Thu, to Tu Quyen’s lingerie and bed-rocking presentation to Thuy Van’s skin-to-skin bump-and-grind, the show was a big dream of orgies. Thuy Nga’s chicks were so disgustingly seductive that we would have a hard time concentrating on the music. I had no clue what Thuy Van and Tu Quyen were singing nor I could recall what their male partners (Nguyen Hung and Luong Tung Quang) looked like next to them. Who could pay attention to the lyrics when Minh Tuyet’s bubble butt and Nhu Loan’s fake but firm breasts occupied our mind? And just when we were about to get tired of looking at the same old girls, Thuy Nga slapped on some new ones to keep us coming back for more. Ngoc Lien was the latest protégé who brought more appearance than voice to the production. But hey, I am not complaining. I don’t mind watching them.
When the sex was not present, the video got boring and stale. We know the drill: get rich on dead writers. Thuy Nga loved to recycle old songs. The problem was their musical production hardly revived the ageless standards. The most disappointing arrangement was in Trinh Cong Son medley. The plain and colorless production weakened the performance. Khanh Ly and Tuan Ngoc were undoubtedly two of the most successful voices in covering Trinh’s work, but their selection for this medley was not so convincing. Khanh Ly sounded aged on “Hay Yeu Nhau Di” and Tuan Ngoc was banal on “Tinh Sau.” The only striking coverage was “Phoi Pha,” in which Tuan Ngoc gave a heartfelt delivery.
I am not sure why Huynh Nhat Tan wasted his time writing idiotic song like “Yeu La Chi?” Even though the chorography was cleaver (specially the creative use of glow sticks), the Chinese/hip-hop/trance mix along with Linda and Tommy’s Vietnamese rap were just incredibly unpleasant. But that performance was not as awful as “Street Dreams” by Van Quynh and Adam Ho. Thuy Nga had turned these two young and innocent kids into pathetic punk rockers. I am sorry to say, but watching them gave me nightmares instead of sweet dreams.
Paris By Night 79 is another typical product from Thuy Nga. I am getting tired of watching it, and I have no motivation of writing it. This is my last piece on DVDs music review, not only from Thuy Nga, but other productions, including Asia and Van Son, as well.
hahaha, i am so in love with ur smart ass comments….pls pls i beg u…pls do NOT stop writin these reviews…i have not seen da thuy nga dvd but i can so imagine these pathetic images…ur one funny person…(male? i guess) i am now actualli lookin forward to see it…and trash it…just like u…wateva u do…pls keep postin up these reviews…cheers…
Donny, I like your reviews !!!!! Please don’t stop.. I never watch any videos from TN, Asia, or VS.. I don’t like watching people lipsing !! What about BK and KH ’s duet? I sang with BK at a concert once and he was fantastic !! I must said I enjoyed it very much.. I was going to buy it for my parents but wonder if it will not be good for his heart watching almost naked/porn looking singers ( he has an irregular heart beat) !!!
Mimi,
You’ve guessed right. I am 100% pure male :)
Thu Hoai,
Bang Kieu and Khanh Ha’s performance is the only highlight of the show. Khanh Ha is still a phenomenonal singer and Bang Kieu matches her voice perfectly with his powerful delivery. As much as I am trying to like BK’s high and authoritative vocals, I am still can’t get over his feminine timbre.
Thanks Donny.. I like the fact that KH is very picky with her song selections. Yes, I like BK’s voice only when he sang in low notes..
I think he definitely has one of a kind male voice in the Viet music. Tuan Ngoc will always be my fav.. One of these day, I will have my chance hopefully I will sing with TN ! KH was my idol growning up… I fell inlove
at 7 listening to “Bay di canh chim bien” and “Anh da quen mua Thu” I have KH to thank for for loving the Vietnamese music..
I agree with the reviewer on the visual aspect but I don’t think the production is sexed up as he made it out to be. I have noticed a particular trend with your review in that Asia also recycled (although Asia’s arrangements are fresher in a sense and bloody all the productions have recycled a huge amount of songs in recent time) and their singers also exposed a large amount of flesh or overt sexuality (case in point – Thien Kim in recent appearances) yet I haven’t seen you mentioned that.
Anyway, if you stop writing reviews then it’s your choice.
Well so far I have only seen the first disk since it did get a bit bleh. I liked the Dreams clip, NNNs son is spunky! Huong Thuy and her partner (sorry, forgot her name, oops) did quite well I though, made me cry a bit. The comedy I found wasnt good, had potential but then it resorted to cliches and the voices were sooo forced. Especially Kevin, concessions are made since he is young but still, his voice sounds like hes reading, v. bad. Shame what they did to Van Quynh, shes young and can sing, and what a mess of a song that was! Dont retire, I love ur reviews!
I’m not watching TN DVD for about a year now. Occasionally, when I visit my sister who lives in the next town, I, always, have a great time not only eating her gourmet food and enjoys her company but also (force by my beloved sissier) watch bits and pieces of the latest TN DVD that she bought for her collection. That why I can keep up with the current events :-). At first I’m tired with the jokes from NNN and KD. Now I’m tired with the presentations, which I think they are the meat of the DVD.
BTW, I’m in Atlantic City this past Thanksgiving and see Khanh Ha. I’m a bit disappointed with the way she dressed for her fans.
I always enjoy reading your review. Keep up the good work!
Now if you’re stop writing TN review, what else can you compare with?
Please don’t stop writing your reviews. I sometimes rely on you reviews to make up my decisions to whether buy the DVD or not.
As for PBN productions, I always find myself saying “what the heck?” after watching their videos. The covers and costumes always make you think that the music is going to be good, but I always find myself feeling very disapointed after watching their videos.
You left out Nguyen Hung and the new singer’s duet and dance! where can you find dance talent like that except on TN.
Khanh Ly sound aged ’cause she’s old. Mời Khánh Ly hát là để cho những khán giả lớn tuổi nếu kéo lại và nghiềm ngẫm cái quãng thời gian năm nào. Chứ Khánh Ly người đã lớn tuổi thì giọng hát đã đâu còn được như xưa. Băng Thúy Nga phát hành có nhiều đối tượng khán giả và Thúy Nga cố gắng duy trì to satisfy mỗi thành phần đối tượng khán giả đó. Nó giống như là một tiệm buffet Taydo or Tokyo One. Ăn nhiều riết ngán. Quảnh đi quảnh lại cũng nhiêu đó! Hòa âm và phối nhạc cũng do mấy người đó làm mấy năm qua. Bài hát thì xào đi xào lại. I haven’t seen PBN for the last few years but got a chance to see PBN 79 on Thxgiving day w/ family. I had to agree w/ Donny’s review.
OH please dont stop writing these reviews, they’re a great laugh and I enjoy reading them before I watch the actual DVD! At the moment, I havn’t seen the DVD, but after reading the reviews, boy I so wanna buy it n see how crap it actually is! I’m not sure though, I thought their last dvd was a letdown so I was lookin forward to this one a lot, now im not so sure..
Anyway Donny, please keep writing ur reviews and don’t stop! They’re really good and I’m pretty sure everyone who is a regular visitor to this website enjoys reading them just as much as I do !
If Donny is gay, how could he spotted Minh Tuyet’s “bubble butt” (nice description, by the way) but not Nguyen Hung’s, LOL!
Please keep on writing Donny, I find your reviews more fun to read than those on Thuy Nga’s official site. The review of PBN 79 could be read here. It is so cheesy.
For example: 03] Tóc Mai Sợi Vắn Sợi Dài – Trần Thái Hòa + Ngọc Hạ: This song was just BEAUTIFUL! Ngoc Ha looks like she gained some weight in the face and at times she just looked different to me…her face was more pointed downward and she appeared to be hiding her face…maybe due to the weight gain? But there is definitely a marked difference between her look here and in PBN 78 (which i liked her better in). I know that this song is a classic but (don’t know how to explain it) I thought this song was going into a different direction…good song but I would have written it a little differently as far as the melody goes. Good job!
Hahaha! I am not only gay and very lonely, but I also have way too much time on my hand. What can I say?
It has been ages since the last time I watch any of those shows. They are so tasteless, so superficial, so unoriginal. This is a problem within the Vietnamese music industry, both overseas and in-country. Singers are taking advantages of old songs and and beat those nice songs to death, to the point of making people turn around to hate those songs to the extreme. Or on the other end, they shadow behind the neighbors (Korean, Chinese, Taiwanese, Black) and emulating every single moves and lyrics to the max. I hate it when they try to be so hip-pop (especially the singers in Vietnam, looking so ridiculous. I once saw a video of Thanh Thảo with an Afro wig, good thing I wasn’t there, or else I would smack her out of consciousness).
They are so lost…no defined identity at all.
Thúy Nga production (as well as Asia and the likes) needs to hear reviews and comments like these from us, because as it seems to me, they are swimming in superficial praises and think that is enough to keep them popping out one DVD to another with the same bland, banal, unauthentic taste. The only thing that save them are the women in skimpy clothes flashing all the artificial, silicon-enhanced, botox injected flesh.
Sorry for the harsh opinions, but frustration comes abound when I talk about this subject.
We’re a minority of the people whom purchases TN/ASIA/Van Son. It’s definitely not for the work of art of ground breaking show performance. It’s more of a fashion show with CD playing in the background.
If our average listeners out there is determined to get better music, they must show it through their wallet. If TN/ASIA/VanSon can’t make any sale, I’m sure they’ll change their strategy and conform to what buyers are looking for. As I see it, why fix what isn’t broken? People are awaiting new releases like a religion… what stop TN/ASIA/Vanson from doing what they’re doing?
Besides… we’re not a culture that embrace changes. We like old things that work ;). Seriously, how many people out there that you know listen to stuffs like Tung Duong, Ngoc Khue, or two TCS album performed by Thanh Lam (not to mention Nang Len).
It’s funny that a lot of your profess not to watch (Asia/TN/VS) or are forced to watch it and yet you all have opinions of it. At least Donny have passed judgment after viewing it.
I just love Tuan’s comments !!! It is so true
that looks play a big part of
the entertainment bussiness. Most of the singers’fans in the forum compliments of their looks rather than voice !! This is rather scary! Is there a production out there where an unknown singer can sign up without the pressure of showing off her body parts?
J, if you think I am being biased on Thuy Nga’s production, you haven’t read much on what I have been written. Here is what I wrote about Thien Kim on Asia’s Mua He Ruc Ro 2005, “What the heck is Thien Kim doing in J-Lo-Versace dress? Her outfit is so loose that if she tries to dance, her clothes would drop. So she just stands there during the break trying to look cute, which appears more hoochie than cute to me.” Do you homework kiddo, before you speak.
Your second statement is so rediculous. You said, “And to all of you who needs Donny’s review to help you decide on whether or not to buy is quite frankly sad, as you are much weak human beings who rely on others to make decisions for you.” That why there is such a thing as “review” and “criticism.” I, myself, do rely on other people’s opinions to decide whether something is worth it or not. It doesn’t mean that you have to always agree with the reviewer. As you can see on this site, I am very open to other people’s point of view. It’s all about having fun and sharing thoughts.
Oh yeah, one more thing, I did not complain about “sexed-up” performances. Didn’t I say, “But hey, I am not complaining. I don’t mind watching them.”
this is gettin fun…donny u should open up a forum for this topic…as everyone has so much to say abt it…and here are my thoughts…my mother atches these music thing religiously…not just da big names like PBY and asia…but all of the other real crappy ones as well(tinh,bien nho…or bien rong…wateva…not worth my memory space). as much as i hate to admit it but PBN still da best one of all. this dosnt mean that i love PBN b’cos i totally agreed wid u guys abt da inadequate amount of real vocal talents and plenty of sex on screen but hear me out…
1. PBN still have da best MCs..KD has a quacky turkey-ishly laugh and sometimes her jokes are so lame but mr NNN makes up for her part…orchid lam quynh is too robotic, quynh huong is way too try hard ( and to think shes from da same family as Y Lan, a real shame)and dont even get me started abt phi nhung…omg shes like a 30 yrs old woman trapped inside da body of 12 yrs old and acted like a 8 yrs old..shes always tryin to be so cute…its god damn annoyin. viet thao is a pain in da ass…hes a DOM (dirty old man)has absolutely no style and no grace on stage. so yeah all in all, i still prefer KD and NNN to these guys..
2. thuynga has money to burn…they willing to spend money on their productions( staging, lighting, costumes, dancers)these attributes are important to a show…it allows them to have more creative freedom.
3. thuynga also have the majority of my fave singers on their shows. this is a lil biased but they have bang kieu…hes my fave, he sings so much betta now that hes out of da country. they also have tuan ngoc, khanh ha, tran thai hoa, thuy tien, and nhat trung and thu phuong and luong tung quang. but i still dunno why bao han are still around after so long…adnit it, da woman cannot sing and have a starin problem. shes so skinny she has no place to store her breath so how can she possibly sing anythin? and now shes reinforced wid oda retards like nhu loan, ho le thu…omg they all looked like they belong to a whore house. dont get me wrong, i like a diverse range of music not just da oldies. i think van quynh has a good voice, nhu loan is exceptionally elegant, nhu quynh is a perfectionist in all her perfomances, she always give 100%, and minh tuyet is da onli ‘young’ one who sings new music wid a lil bit of talent. unlike oda productions like asia, where i can onli listen to nguyen khang, diem lien ( wat ever happened to thuy duong??? she was soooo good….)
ok so all in all, PBN still not so bad…wait let me add on one more thing, its da whole crossed dressing and exploitation of gay theme in their comedy…why is dat??? da first time hoai linh crossed dress..oh so funni…after all these years of doing da same thing….oh so lame…get ova it, work ur creativity and imagination. this cannot be the end of vietnamese wicked sense of humour…( having to say all that, im not so sure if i want to see hoai linh as a man at all…is he still a man???) presentin vietnamses music according to da theme of ” sex sells” thuynga PBN are on their path of destruction. note to thuynga execs: pls produce quality music dvd, not soft porn wid music.. youngster like us rely on ur dvds to uderstand and expand our knowledge of vietnamese music so do not destroy and put us off it for life.
and as for u donny, i think im in love wid………….ur site…pls do not give up writin and reviewin…i respect ur opinions…and those who dont…who cares…i came accross this site by accident and now im actualli contributin…me have so much to say me tell u…keep up da good effort…keep on watchin these dvds…dont take it too seriously, it meant to be for ur leisure and entertainment…watch them and have a good laugh and bitch abt it to us….we like ur comments…and u have quite a few supporters…..
cheers….
Donny, Donny, Donny. I just finished watching clips from PBN 79. I enjoyed the show for its “eye candy” characteristics. Then I visit your site to read your review of the show. I already had mind what it would say. Something along the line of too sexed up. Then I realized that I am in the forum of a bunch of conservative Vietnameses who think listening to TCS and KH or Thanh Lam (I am surprise Vuong Huong wasn’t brought up this time)puts them on the elite list of people who can define and understand art. To me you guys sounds more like a bunch of gramps sitting around with tea discussing how inappropriate such and such acts are.
J, if you are reading this. This is not directed to you. We, on the other hand, should get together sometimes, smoke a joint or two and go “bazooka” with the latest PBN. Nothing against tea either. Jasmine green tea is my favorite.
Donny, if you are really gay then I am really worried because being gay and being a conservative doesn’t quite go together my friend. But that’s another issue all together. Take your time to sort that out.
Back to PBN 79. If you are watching it looking for Van Gough or Sinatra-istic performances, you are wasting 6 precious hours of your life. I don’t see it as a masterpiece. I watch it because it is so damn entertaining. This DVD is one of the most creative ones I have seen so far from a Vietnamese production. Van Son had its comedy. Asia has its political ground. Thuy Nga, the theater. It’s a great balance. The vietnamese music industry have come from nothing into this little giant. They have come along way since the days with a stage and 1 or two dancers to now hiring professional choreographers and dancers who danced for big names like Cher(again, not art). Watch for the skin, the makeup and the comedy. It’s mindless entertainment. If you want deep materials, don’t pop in a PBN dvd. Read a New York Times article instead. http://www.nytimes.com
Here’s my brief counter-review. Generally, watching the show is like watching a vietmese version of a mtv music award combined with truncated broadway shows and a hint of Cirque Du Soleil. This is vietnamese pop on its way up. Thuy Nga’s shows are very organized even though it’s hard to maintain a theme in a variety show. The theme of each show is well executed. You will see why it is “Dream” if you watch the show unlike Asia’s shows such as “My Nhan Ngu.” or their latest, “75 Nam Am Nhac Vietnam.”
Very theatricals are numbers like “Dem Ngam Ngui” and “Nguoi ve tu giac chiem bao” Nguyen Hung and Thuy Van gave one of the best dance performances in “LK Hon Ghen.” Of course it’s not “Strictly Ballroom” materials(a great movie by Baz Lurhmann)but deserves to be mentioned. “Sweet Dreams” is a horrible remix of Eurythmic’s anthem but the stage performance by Van Quynh and Adam Ho is fun to watch. Nhat Trung’s song, “Cho Doi” reveal a new generation of vietnamese song writers. Hoai Phuong, the sax guy, has good stage presentation and a nice voice. The other numbers are the usual duets,nothing spectacular. Linda and Tommy need to go. To me, vietnamese is not so agreeable to the ears. But if you find that enjoyable, awesome! I also think Nhu Quynh is talented. She’s doing “cai luong” now.
You said that the show is boring. I found your reviews to be stale themselves. You have nothing to comment on besides music like TCS and KH, ect… Performances you don’t enjoy, you find them too revealing. Same old comments every time. Stick to your background when reviewing. You don’t see book critics reviewing films or the other way round. Spreading yourself way too thin.
But hey, watch what you want, read what you wish and comment on whatever that suits you. Those are my liberal two cents.
i don’t understand why people like bashing people on their personal site. It’s like talking trash at a host’s house. This seems like a public forum because of all the hits donny gets on this site but it’s still a personal site. There are more appropriate venues to dish out scathing remarks like on an amazon.com product review where honest reviews can serve some advisory purpose. What place do personal attacks have on a personal site?
The answer should be obvious… if it’s not then reasoning is hopeless.
Well here’s another review from the Thuy Nga’s site that’s totally different to the one quoted by Tuan. I personally think the guy who wrote it is on drugs but it does offer a different perspective. Now he’s really gay (okay I’m stereotyping) but he seems to be more interested in the fashion than the music. (Sorry in advance but I don’t know how to create a link – please edit if you know how thanks).
Disclaimer:
a) This is only my opinion of PBN 79 and not a professional review.
b) Feedbacks welcome.
c) As they say, those who can’t do criticize.
d) Peace out.
1. Mộng Đẹp (Tùng Châu / Quốc Dũng) Loan Châu / Như Loan / Hồ Lệ Thu
An impressive enchanted forest themed opening full of theatrics that presents a visual feast for the eyes even the Grimms brothers would approve. Aurally the song with its Arabian-night strings heavy arrangement and beguilling thumping electro percussion beats are designed to lodge directly into one’s consciousness and get the groove moving. All three singers give adequate performances and their voices are quite harmonious together. Once again props to the Paris By Night’s dance troupe who shines like usual in their important supporting role. The use of the Cirque du Soleil’s acrobat as the dream fairy for the opening and sporadically throughout the show is clever as it gives the theme a cohesive flow. The only thing I would wish for is some inventive camera angles and cinematography especially given that most of the close ups are filmed in advance during security taping. Nevertheless, a thoroughly pleasing opening to open the show.
2. Trọn Kiếp Bình Yên (Đăng Anh) Minh Tuyết / Dương Triệu Vũ
Deceptively captivating with its oh so gentle opening passage this ballad full appeal doesn’t truly register until the bass kicks in from the bridge and before one realizes it, the song has its claw stuck into you hook, line and sinker. The ad lips furnishes the recital a spontaneity, adds some raw emotion to the song that makes you think of the song potential had the performance been sung live. However, from a performance point of view Duong Trieu Vu needs to absorb and be mindful of the environment around him and adjust his level of exuberance somewhat to avoid the uncoordinated over enthusiasm when compare with Minh Tuyet. Fashion wise, the choice of beaded denim and white beaded cropped top give Minh Tuyet casual, youthful look but once again Duong Trieu Vu’s penchant for ruffle tops is simply mystifying because the look doesn’t do him any favor – ‘ello, we’re not in Kansas anymore.
3. Tóc Mai Sợi Vắn Sợi Dài (Phạm Duy) Trần Thái Hòa / Ngọc Hạ
Regardless of what contributed to Ngoc Ha’s apparent bloated face, it affects the performance greatly because it was visually awkward and immensely distracting. Throughout the performance she is self-conscious and continuously tilting her head sideway or downward. During the close ups her face is stiff and consequently she is unable to project the emotion of the song properly. If the speculation is correct and that the problem is medically related then we wish Ngoc Ha a speedy recovery. That aside, the lack of chemistry between the singers is palpable and lessen the effect of the song itself. Musically the arrangement influenced by Vietnam’s high country (Cao Nguyen region) is majestic yet organic with a sense of innocent as espouse by the naive romanticism in the lyrics. However, the rapid fire exchange in the second half of the song, whilst adding a sense of urgency befitting the lyrics of love passing by, makes the performance feel rushed and subsequently suffocating and exhausting. Vocally, the reliable performers give engaging recitals that use their talents prudently. With this classic song, love him or loathe him due to his personal opinion since returning to Vietnam, you can’t deny the enduring quality of Pham Duy’s music.
4. Đêm Ngậm Ngùi (Lương Bằng Vinh) Như Quỳnh / Tâm Đoan
Interesting staging concept based loosely on an ancient Chinese’s legend is stunningly excuted with a beautifully lush, flowing choreography, creating a sensory illusion that the singers are floating on air. However, the post production special effect is clearly obvious and feels inane, completely unnecessary. The song itself ordinary at best saves only by the orchestral arrangement in the second half of the performance. Both perfomers immerse themselves fully in the roles and the supposed rivalry fueled by respective camp of fans are non-existence in this performance and is baseless as each respective singers bring their own uniqueness to the performance.
5. Liên Khúc Đêm Vũ Trường / Phận Tơ Tằm (Lê Minh Bằng) Phương Hồng Quế / Thái Châu
To view this performance critically from a music point of view, it may be brutal to state the obvious but it’s evident that both performers in particular Phuong Hong Que has passed their primes based on the performance at hand. Even though both singers give a competent performance but at the peak of their games, this performance would have been spine-tingling good. Neverthless, nostalgically it is still an enjoyable performance. Fashion wise Phuong Hong Que looks splendidly regal in a deep poinsettia beaded “ao dai” but Thai Chau, in a separate ensemble of black jacket and grey trousers is a poster boy for geriatrics – the outfit is most appropriate for occasions such as a Remembrance Day’s function.
6. Liên Khúc Trịnh Công Sơn (Trịnh Công Sơn) Khánh Ly / Tuấn Ngọc
The beginning of this song is rather peculiar as Khanh Ly’s voice abruptly pierces the gentle intro but after that the song settles into a comfortable, non-offensive, pseudo jazzy groove. By no mean a disrespect but the performance is clearly a walk in the park for these two accomplished performers and I was expecting a lot more, especially with Khanh Ly whose name is synonymous with Trinh Cong Son. I was prepared to be completely blown away emotionally and musically but the performance is disappointing. Furthermore, a tribute doesn’t necessarily have to mean a medley but admittedly there’s not many Trinh Cong Son’s songs which are suitable for duet performances (I can’t think of any at the moment) but it’d have been far more effective had they just picked a song and sing the living day light out of it. Also, this must be the umpteenth time that Khanh Ly has been seen in varying shade of purple so there must be some sort of significance regarding this color affinity. On the other hand, granted that Tuan Ngoc has never been a fashion trendsetter but my oh my that printed abstract, Picasso inspired tie is outdated when simple mono color, metallic silk tie would have sufficed.
7. Yêu Làm Chi (Huỳnh Nhật Tân) Lynda Trang Đài / Tommy Ngô
The reception from the audience when Lynda Trang Dai and Tommy Ngo are introduced is indicative of the level of support that both of these performers enjoy. That aside the song itself is tolerable and both singers look like they clearly relish the chance to return to stage. The pseudo rap is dodgy at best and as previously stated I’m not a big fan of the Chinese-esque arrangement. Performance wise, Lynda Trang Dai is stunning in a sequinned silver camisole (La Perla)teams with leather capri pants but she is a step or two slower than in her golden years as the queen of Vietnamese. Regardless she still got what it takes to mix it with the best of them whilst Tommy Ngo is Tommy Ngo. However, I love the trippy visual incorporation of the glow sticks into choreography which is rather fun. Nevertheless this is not exactly a rave kind of song therefore the rainbow hair highlight is rather cliché and overly dramatic.
8. Yêu Thương Mong Manh (Đức Trí / Hà Quang Minh) Minh Tuyết / Bằng Kiều
Even though I love this performance enormously and I believe in many instances the pairing of Minh Tuyet and Bang Kiet as duet combination does work quite well but in this particular performance, Minh Tuyet vocal limitation is cruelly exposed. Minh Tuyet’s is quite vulnerable when the song took off and she’s unable soar and take it to another level. Consequently it feels as if Bang Kieu is holding back somewhat thus compromising the integrity of the song and leaving this listener wishing for another performer with equal parity. Furthermore, during the bridge, Minh Tuyet is barely audible, and is consigned to a support role to Bang Kieu. Anyway, kudos to Minh Tuet for the elegant peach damask jersey spaghetti straps with beaded detailing dress. Furthermore, I wish they could take better advantage of the beautiful falling rose petal backdrop, which would have added another dimension of romanticism to the performance.
9. Liên Khúc Trong Tầm Mắt Đời / Thương Hận (Tú Nhi) Chế Linh / Trường Vũ
Admittedly I have never been a big fans of this genre of music but I rather enjoy this medley for what it’s worth. However, I still can’t get over Truong Vu’s preference for his trademark collared suit and tee shirt ensemble which gets on my nerves no end. Granted, visually his choice in this particular instance of a ruby linen ensemble contrasts nicely with Che Linh’s camebert single breasted suit, the look just scream for an emergency makeover. I wonder what Carson would say.
10. Người Về Từ Giấc Chiêm Bao (Nguyễn Minh Anh) Bảo Hân / Loan Châu
The one thing that you’ll unquestionably take away from this performance is the breathtakingly gorgeous staging borrowed from the theme of the sublime “Raise The Red Lantern’ by the masterful Zhang Yimou. This beautifully crafted movie is one of my all time favorites and the replication here is a worthy visual tribute to Yimou’s masterpiece. Loan Chau, somewhat evocative of Gong Li from afar, and Bao Han look absolutely magnificent and classy in rich pomgranate red burnt-out velvet and quilted silk “ao dai” with lace overlay and tonal floral beaded embroidery. The song itself is an enchanting with rhythmic, hypnotic percussion beats symbolising the heartbeats of protagonists. The arrangement is just perfect on this song and I adore the waysome of the beats have been used to represent time and loneliness. Loan Chau’s voice with its exquisite low tone is tailor-made for this song and Bao Han shines as usual. The acting by both singers are restrained and measured for the performance. Once again, even though they’re mainly confined in the background, the dancers still contribute wholeheartedly to the performance.
11. Vộng Cổ Mẹ Vẫn Đợi Con Về (Viễn Châu) Hương Thủy / Ngọc Đan Thanh
I don’t know what remotely constitute a good Vietnamese opera performance but if I was cynical this performance can be viewed as superficial and emotionally manipulative at times, tugging at the obvious heartstrings. Cynicism aside, this would have to be one of the most memorable and enjoyable “cai luong vong co” since “Hai Dua Gian Nhau” with Manh Quynh and Phi Nhung in Paris By Night 67. Surprisingly Huong Thuy looks decent in a metallic silver pinstripes, herringbone pants suit (although her make-up is highly unflattering) but she’s clearly overshadowed by Ngoc Dang Thanh’s superb performance. Judging by the emotional reaction by a large section of the audience and fellow performers behind the scene, this performance is quite memorable to a lot of people.
12. Hài Kịch Âm Dương Đôi Đường Hoài Linh / Chí Tài / Kevin Phan
Not Applicable
13. Nhạc Cảnh Hờn Ghen (LV Phạm Duy) Nguyễn Hưng / Thùy Vân
With the recent explosion in the popularity of ballroom dancing, this performance would have been eagerly anticipated by a large portion of the audience. However, this performance would have to be one of the most frustrating and irritating of the entire show. Perhaps the obvious recycling of this over performed song has something to with my annoyance and subsequently contributes its depreciating level of enjoyment. In addition, granted that Thuy Van is a wonderful dancer and she demonstrates that magnificently here in this performance by overshadowing Nguyen Hung in the dance stake. However, vocally her voice is unexceptional! Throughout the performance I keep wishing that they picked a different song because staging and choreography wise, it’s rather entertaining save for the lifeless vocal. Oh, please don’t get me started on Nguyen Hung’s o-horrific shiny latex shirt and vest combo, ballroom dancing or not. The Al-Capone era double breasted gangsterish suits for the male dancers are also baggy and daggy. On a side note, it’s wonderful to see Steve Bermundo and Chris Quiban back in the rank and still looking as hot as ever.
14. Tình Lúa Duyên Trăng (Hoài An/Hồ Đình Phương) Quang Lê / Ngọc Hạ
This Southern folk song has long been one of my favorites and as Nguyen Ngoc Ngan states in the introduction, it’s one of the most famous folk songs from the South. Therefore the decision to cast Ngoc Ha and Quang Le in this performance is peculiar and perplexing to say the least. These two performers certainly bring a different dimension to this beloved song but personally the inconsistent intonation from Quang Le, continually switching between his Central and semi Southern accent, and Ngoc Ha’s confusing accent somewhat distracting and ruin the enjoyment of this song. Vocally both give a fine recital but as an overall package this performance is rather irksome.
15. Hãy Trả Lời Em (Tuấn Nghĩa) Ngọc Liên / Thế Sơn
Ngoc Lien’s voice is perfect for this song but the risk-free arrangement is just too bland for my liking. Of all the recent songs to come out of Vietnam in recent time, this would have to be one of the favorites but this performance needs to be a key higher and the vocal grittier, edgier to fully convey the raw intensity of the song. As it stands, the performance is just nice and emotionally detached whereas it should have been memorable. Fashion wise Ngoc Lien is radiant in a sparkly claret sequined full length dress (BCBG Maz Azria)although the sash detailing on the empire waist is uncomplimentary, making her appear unnecessarily shorter. Compare with her first appearance, Ngoc Lien is more confident on stage and is more expressive than her debut.
16. Em Đi (Đức Huy) Bằng Kiều / Tuấn Ngọc / Thái Châu / Nhật Trung / Nguyễn Ngọc Ngạn
On paper this performance promises so much given the mesmerizing collaborations showcased on Bang Kieu’s “Va Lai Tinh Toi” CD so to label this recital disappointing is an understatement. Except for the harmonization at the start and during the chorus, the performance leaves me feeling underwhelmed. The weakest link in the chain would have to be Thai Chau. The light jazz treatment given to this song, one of Duc Huy’s better known composition, is more suitable for an intimate smoky bar on a Saturday night rather than a concert of this ambiance. Nguyen Ngoc Ngan’s contribution to this performance is for mere novelty value and his voice sounds rather breathless.
17. Nếu Không Có Em Bên Đời (Lời Vũ Xuân Hùng) Trần Thái Hòa / Như Loan
It is wonderful to see that the producers have given Tran Thai Hoa the opportunity to expand his repertoire and this coupling works surprisingly well against my preconceived perception. However, for the majority of the song Tran Thai Hoa’s voice is almost unrecognizable, deeper and grittier than normally which contrasts nicely with Nhu Loan’s soft, fragile voice. Personally, this would have to be one of Nhu Loan’s best duet performances since “Sunday Buon”. What more, Nhu Loan is scorching in a gold mustard seed Grecian wrap dress that exposes the right amount of skin, enough tantalize the senses. Phew, I’m still a bit hot under the collar. Oh and Tran Thai Hoa, in a naval collared, custard white acrylic fleecey top with brown detailing, is not too shabby either without his usual shirt and suit ensemble. The staging is simple yet effective with the performers and dancers attired in neutral toned costumes representing the Eden setting.
18. Chợ Đời (Nhật Trung) Nhật Trung / Hoài Phương
The value of this song lies in the meaning of its lyrics rather than musical originality. Hoai Phuong’s voice is not exactly a revelation but given a right song, he can certain excel. Nevertheless, the performance benefits greatly from the intimate setting, love the inclusion of the faux cinema projector like a family gathering around to share treasured memories; and I can imagine the song being sung around a camp fire by a group of friends. In line with the intimate setting, the singers are dressed in casual, almost Bohemic tunic shirts. The performance is best described as a jamming session between friends and it draws the listeners in without them knowing it.
19. Chờ Anh Nói Một Lời (Nhật Trung) Lưu Bích / Nguyễn Hưng
Let just say the girl knows how make an entrance even if she does look a tad surprise upon arriving on stage. The key to this performance is energy and fun even if Luu Bich doesn’t look entirely convincing with her dance moves. However, the song itself is almost indistinguishable from their previous duets together, it is almost a de facto “Yeu 2”. Nonetheless, it’s a lively and entertaining performance thanks to the dynamic choreography. Luu Bich looks fresh and youthful in a tangerine halterneck summer mini dress (Roberto Cavalli)with patchwork detailing. But the burnt cherry supplice kimono top with aloe green trim and tonal print and bow sash on Nguyen Hung and the dancers is somewhat questionable.
20. Nối Lại Tình Xưa (Ngân Giang) Như Quỳnh / Mạnh Quỳnh
Finally Nhu Quynh gets to duet with some other than Truong Vu and the two Quynhs are wonderful together in this duet but the performance lacks the wow factor. Splendid in a metallic sapphire “ao dai” with beaded white floral motif and trim, Nhu Quynh finally has her glow back. And in the close ups, the foundation make-up on both singers appear quite heavy and obvious.
21. Đau Một Lần Rồi Thôi (Huy Cường) Thế Sơn / Hồ Lệ Thu
Off the rack dress or not (for those interested it’s an ombre striped dress by BCBG Max Azria on sales at Nieman Marcus for $162 – credit to the eagle-eyed hungs), this is the most demure and graceful Ho Le Thu we have seen thus far. The song also benefits greatly from a rather restrained performance from Ho Le Thu and The Son, also handsome in an all black outfit. In recent time, “Vang Trang Khoc” and this song would have to be the most overplayed song out of Vietnam and it feels as if these two songs have been ingrained into my brain. The thoughts of having to endure another version did come across as being very painstaking but thankfully, the arrangement in this instance is less cliché and syrupy than the original version that I have heard.
22. Con Tim Dại Khờ (Nguyễn Hoài Anh) Lương Tùng Quang / Tú Quyên
Even though she doesn’t have the best vocal in the world but why has Tu Quyen been confined to these forgettable and disposable dance songs is perplexing. Admittedly, this particular song does suit her voice with its distinguishable raspy-ness and her pairing with Luong Tung Quang has proven to be popular. Truth be told, I enjoy the performance but by this time tomorrow it’d register on my radar in any shape or form. On her return to Paris By Night, Tu Quyen is a bit more curvaceous in a pearl toned negligee but I totally don’t dig the granny hairdo. And as always Luong Tung Quang has the heart skipping a few beats with his handsomeness, accentuates by the striped silk pajamas.
23. Tình Yêu Cho Em / Vivo Per Lei (LV Nhật Ngân) Khánh Hà / Bằng Kiều
Undoubtedly the performance of the show and it’s no mean a stretch to say that this would have to be the performance of the year anywhere. I have long been a big fan of Andrea Bocelli so when I first saw the track listing, I was very apprehensive because Bang Kieu is not exactly renowned as being a tenor. However, Bang Kieu’s high contralto voice adds a distinctive dimension that differentiates this recital to the original version. But what totally blows my mind with this performance is that Khanh Ha manages to outperform Bang Kieu vocally whilst looking splendid in a classically cut majestic lavender satin dress with seamed bodice (Jean Paul Gaultier). Those spine tingling high notes take the performance to a completely different level. The exchange between the singers during the bridge is utterly thrilling in so many ways. Put it simply, the performance is amazing and showcases what music should be all about.
24. Cơn Mưa Bất Chợt (Sỹ Đan) Thủy Tiên / Lương Tùng Quang
Thuy Tien and Sy Dan’s back story is not exactly a secret and a lot of can be read into this song choice but this upbeat light rock performance is entertaining but not exactly groundbreaking. Luong Tung Quang and Thuy Tien’s tender duet on her “Yeu Ai” is much more enjoyable and three Luong Tung Quang’s performances so close to each other is a bit of an overkill programming wise. As always, even if you put her in a potato sack, Thuy Tien’s beauty cannot be diminished. Thuy Tien is definitely a sight for sore eyes in this casual white shirt with beaded jeans and belt ensemble. And as far as eye candy goes, Luong Tung Quang is perfect as the cherry on top.
25. Sweet Dreams (Annie Lennox) Văn Quỳnh / Adam Hồ
Eurhythmic’s haunting Sweet Dreams is one of the hardest song to perform and to capture the full range emotion as conveyed by the exceptionally unique and timeless Annie Lennox. Wisely, rather than setting themselves up for a pitfall by replicating the original version, the arrangement for has been funkily remixed whilst still retaining a retro feel of the original. Van Quynh is unexpectedly good in this performance and her voice easily eclipses Adam Ho’s post-pubescent vocal. However, the song feels over produced at time with too much vocal filtering and digitisation. Fashion wise, Van Quynh is fitting in a retro 80s Euro trash look evocative of Madonna during her Holiday’s period. Here Van Quynh is a picture of punk trash princess in a penguin suit jacket, cropped Capri, lace corset top, neon pink tutu and fishnet stocking. And who would ever thought we’d see Adam Ho in a suit, albeit a compromised version with a tropical print singlet. The choreography with dancers in air bubbles is visually interesting and different to previous performances.
26. Khiêu Vũ Bên Nhau / Laissez-moi Danser (LV Vũ Xuân Hùng) Bảo Hân / Minh Tuyết / Hồ Lệ Thu / Tâm Đoan / Tú Quyên / Lynda Trang Đài / Lương Tùng Quang / Tommy Ngô / Dương Triệu Vũ
As some people have already pointed out, the song itself does not really fit with the general mood of the whole show but as a stand alone it is such a celebratory and fun performance that one can be helped but be caught up in its infectious retro disco joyfulness. All the performers seem to be having a lot of fun with this performance, the only thing missing is a couple of clowns and a balloon shower to end it. However, there are two minor criticisms, which to some may be nitpicking and pedantic, but with such a fun performance, I wish all the singers could have been attired in colorful, festive costumes. As a result, only Bao Han and Duong Trieu Vu manage to standout in a yellow leather flair pants with printed crop vest top and patchwork sweater vest with dark crimson striped trousers respectively. The other criticism is for the glaring inability of Ho Le Thu’s part not able to lip sync properly to the lyrics, which is very unprofessional.
Overall, PBN 79 “Dreams” is an engaging DVD with Thuy Nga once again demonstrating with PBN 79 that it continues to raise the benchmark on visual styling with elaborate, imaginative sets and complementary choreography. The show has a continuous, cohesive flow from start to finish. However, a small section of the songs selected is somewhat disappointing but the majority of the show is highly entertaining. Nguyen Ngoc Ngan and Nguyen Cao Duyen in their roles as MCs are more breezy this time around, although some of the stories are repetitive during the show. In addition, it’s heartwarming to see the camaraderie between the singers, producers, dancers and backstage crews in the behind the scene because it’s not often that the contribution of the crews is acknowledge. Without their hard work the shows wouldn’t have run as smoothly. On a side note, I fully blame Bao Han’s hardcore fan for starting the atrocious blow-up dolls trend as presents for singers. Just kidding. Anyway, Paris By Night 79 is an entertaining focal point especially during this holiday season.
*** Additional fashion information courtesy of a person with better knowledge and passion for fashion.
That review totally ousted my dinky one. I think that’s how PBN should be viewed.
Like Mimi, I stumbled upon this site by accident. I think it was through ilovengoclan.com. I found the site to be extremely captivating. Especially the “eatery” section. Makes me want to buy a ticket and fly back to New York to eat at some of those restaurants.
So Donny, don’t stop writing reviews. It’s a nice place to generate intelligent, friendly discussions that one can learn from each other.
The world would be boring if everybody is infatuated with the latest PBN.
Thuy Nga’s disease is incurable. It is as serious as cancer. I am done, folks. Enjoy the show!
It’s all about quality and innovation. I am willing to pay 150 USD for 2 VIP tickets to see My Tam, Quang Dung and Hong Nhung. But I am not willing, not anymore, to pay 30 USD to buy a Thuy Nga DVD. All I can expect to see is the sex and the same old faces. My time is limited and I expect high quality whenever I put any DVD into the player.
Actually, after watching the whole thing, 79 is not so bad. I really liked the Thuy Van/Nguyen Hung performance and the finale. It was a somewhat confusing mixture, though. The dreaminess was artsy and then went to punk rock with Van Quynh and Adam Ho(it’s not so bad the performance, it’s just Van Quynh can put her talent elsewhere). Some parts were comfortably traditional which was pleasing, like Huong Thuy and Ngoc Dan Thanh. There were the usual stellar performances from Khanh Ha, Tuan Ngoc, Khanh Ly, Bang Kieu and so forth. A decidedly Western influence was in some of the outfits and of course Shakespearean overtones (A Midsummer Night’s Dream). But Tran Thai Hoa, what a change! He did do well with Nhu Loan (and her vocal has improved considerably) but I liked his old elegance, the way he’d stand still and just focus on singing. Overall, I liked this show, good performances, just perhaps they didn’t mesh well together.
Reading through the thread, J I’m rather annoyed by your comments. I for one don’t read Donny’s reviews to buy the DVD but for his criticism, I find it interesting to know someone else’s views on the same thing. And I’m sure that you wouldn’t watch an English film if it wasn’t panned at the box office. Case in point, JLo can’t sing or dance but I’m sure you’d watch one of her vapid films in order to see her butt. I mayn’t agree on all of what Donny says but nevertheless,I value his opinion. Pity that you don’t, J.
I watched this DVD and thought it was excellent. I don’t understand the fuss about heightened sexuality in recent productions. Imagine a show with only Khanh Lys and Tuan Ngocs, then people will be screaming for more excitement. No one is ever satisfied.
KH & BK duet was terrible, I thought they were “chui lon” when they sang the high notes.
Is it just me or does Minh Tuyet really look like Ho Le Thu? In 75, their costumes were similar and they both wore red in 78. And MT’s white top in 79 in eerily reminiscent of HLTs in 75. It’s good to see MT change her style though, her navel baring lacy genie style costume has been done about three times, in 75, 76, 78.
Ho Le Thu and Minh Tuyet
went to the same plastic surgeon !
Really ? Interesting point, I have to check it out later for similarities between them, but I noticed, if you guys checked the back cover of PBN “duong xua”, the close up shots of HLT and Mt make them look very similar, HLT just looks a little older, i think
hay there damn Thuy Nga 79-Dreams is hella tight i love the songs : Yeu Lam Chi Tommy Ngo and Lynda Trang Dai sings that its soo omg .and i also love the song sweet dreams..its sooo tight….Adam HO sings bettah wifout his guitar….haha.
the kich is hella funny mahn Thuy Nga alwayz improve with all tha stuff like that exspecially the kichs i love that part of the whole video well please email me its whymeeh_alwayz@yahoo.com to talk about Thuy Nga aight peace!
I watched this DVD before reading the review here so I could watch it without being biased. I do agree that this DVD wasn’t oh-so-wonderful. It just seems like I want more and some of the singers didn’t seem to try their hardest becuase they’re lip-syncing. Someone posted above saying that HLT messed up lip-syncing in one of the songs. She messed up again in her duet with The Son. Someone also said Ngoc Ha kept on lowering her face and I noticed that a lot. She keeps trying to sort of hide her face. This wasn’t that terrible but it wasn’t a very good one either. Just blah
Well due to my feminine love of gossip, who has had plastic surgery? Or more like, who hasn’t? What have they had fixed?
Always fun reading reviews here. I don’t understand how people find it to be a waste of time watching it. Do you really regret it? Even if it’s negative, it certainly tells your something or puts you in a place of perspective.
I thought it was mindless entertainment on my part. Digitisation and filtration of the voice for remix… no good. But hey, lots of lights, choreography… gets my mojos going. Every so often, you need something to captivate your senses without the optimal use of your brain.
Couldn’t help but notice that Ngoc Ha with her hair down and wearing the white dress looked like some Azn ghost or something, ie the combover girl in ‘The Ring’.
Havent seen this video yet so I cant not agree with you guys. Better watch this with my own eyes first.
Donny, I just accidentally found your web site while doing web surf. I like your review about TNPBN. You just state all of them out clearly. I think you have raised the common review that a lot of us think about TNPBN now. I saw that our VN music industry has grown, I’m glad to see that but then TNPBN starts to focus more on showing up the body parts on stage, that is the problem with having the producer and director who may not understand about VN songs, specially old songs. Sexy is pretty but it seems like the singers on TNPBN try to show their bodies more than their talents. We can see that if we watch them act closely. Their talents can’t be explored because they were put on something that don’t match their skill. I feel pity for them and feel that they were forced to do that, they don’t act natually like Britney or Maddona…Well, someone can say I’m conservative but I hate to see the song lyrics don’t match the setting which I saw a lot from TNPBN. Nguyen Ngoc Ngan has to explain the scenes all the time. Anyway, I think TNPBN lost a lot of fans who love them for years since they changed dir to have more VN from VN on stage and have all the female singers show up their bodies…
Forgot one more thing. I definitely not to buy TNBPN video just to watch the chicks, I rather buy some other type of videos. I like to enjoy music and performances from the music video instead.
I was just wondering… which sets exactly had more sex appeal that didn’t match with the actual song?
Some things seem to be remixed to be fixed with a sexual appeal. Being born in North America, Canada to be exact, I’m more liberal thinking and have always noticed the Vietnamese culture to be a bit more rigid and conservative in terms of issues such as this.
I just remember my mom mentioning about a singer showing too much back… and I choked because I didn’t notice much. In fact, I thought it was pretty but not in a sultry kind of way.
I think it’s like those gigs we sometimes see about the new generation joking about how showing ankles was revealing back in the day.
haha, I’m not really into VN music videos and don’t have enough times to collect all TNPBN videos so I never keep tracks on the details of which song is which. If you want to find out which ones don’t have the scenes that matched the songs then you can watch the videos again. Make sure you understand the words, know the background of the songs…listen to the words to feel what the musician try to tell us and put a little bit feeling, imagination…it is not difficult to see the unmatches.
May be I was not clear on my comments. I don’t see any thing wrong with TNPBN singers showing their bodies on stages. It is the matters the way they performs, too seduction ( not all singers from TNPBN do that though). A lot of famous singers like Linda Trang Dai, Luu Bich, Thanh Ha …they wear very sexy clothes but they look perfectly natural and pretty…
i gt here by accident. donny, i find ur comment half true. i disagree 2 the slack critism of the acts cos a very few songs may pass as gud and the theme idea ‘dreams’ is smart and interesting (u hafta agree dat it’s much beta dan d recycled oldie viet songs in past dvds).
i agree head on with the ladies wearing very seductive and inappropriate clothes cos PBN should be focusing on talented singers like ngoc ha, nhu quyen, khanh ha, etc.
Van Quyen had 2 go on a diet 2 b accepted by thuynga-poor thing.
I think PBN shuld have more comedy acts cos im d type dat wuld like a laugh but lately the acts arent as gud as 5 or 6 years b4.
i hope 2 c more comments donny-they’re really interesting and i do have alot 2 complain about van son and asia
I see. And yeah, I do understand the words, I’m fairly fluent; can read and speak and write and whatnot.
Tron Kiep Binh Yen played out by Duong Trieu Vu didn’t seem to match; they seemed to just be there and have fun twirling on stage than anything. Don’t get me wrong, stage performance is all about having fun, and that song was good, but the atmosphere was lost.
Hey guys,
I just saw the opening song of the DVD last night and I must admit, although it was pretty good, i found that I didn’t like it. Maybe it was due to the over-seductive technique being used, but I’m not really sure. Anyway, that movie clip about “dreams” was hilarious, man “Kieu Linh” is such a funny guy!
Oh and by the way, I saw Ngoc Ha’s song, is it just me, or was she staring at the ground the whole time ?
Don, how much did Asia pay you?
I briefly saw Ngoc Ha’s face. I am not sure what ’s wrong with Ngoc Ha, but I believe she is now on some type of steroid medication
arthritis? lupus? MS? Not
sure but her face show that
typical face of patients on long term steroid medications. I hope she is not ill. She has tremendous
vocal range.
Omg, you think Ngoc Ha’s on steroids? To become rail thin as the other stars perhaps? I just thought that she was embarassed coz she’s a bit chubbier.
I cann’t be sure without knowing what’s her physical ailment is but from the facial edema yes, that is typical of patients on longterm steroid therapy.
I just hope whatever is wrong
with her that she will be well taken care off by her physicians. One thing that is bad about being a Vietnamese “star” is that you don’t make that much money, and alot of “stars” don’t have healthcare insurance because the cost is high for individual coverage and even then, one still need to pay alot of out of pocket expenses. It is really sad situation. I tell all the young girls that wanna be a singer to finish college, get career with great benefits because unless you made it to the top like and can sustain it for at least 20 years, chances are if one suscumbed to an illness, one will be broke. Anycase, I wish Ngoc Ha good health and best of luck with Asia.
Caroline, to clarify a bit, an examples of patients who take steroids could be , asthma, lupus, multiple clerosis(Ngoc Lan died of MS)
kidney problems, tranplant patients (takes steroids to prevent rejection of organs)
skin problems,etc.. Steroid
cause alot of side effects..
really it is a very potent and serious drug.
I have to disagreed with you on your review for PBN 79. I thought it was intelligent of them to come up with the theme “Dreams.” Judging on the stage, clothes, lights, and the little details in the background, TN must had spend a lot of money putting this show together. I loved most of the performances. The highlight performance has to be Bang Kieu and Khanh Ha. Their voices are timeless. I don’t think they are being over-seductive. Custumes are suppose to be attractive. PBN 79 is one of the best paris by night dvds that I have seen so far.
I forgot to add in my last post. The bloatness that you see when watching Ngoc Ha was due to the medication she was taking for her illness.
I have to agree with Donny, TN no longer ‘entertain’ the family, it’s such a shame. Their recent (by recent, i meant the past few years) DVDs musical releases is very provocative, more bump&grind dance moves, clothes that are barely there. I can label their product as trash, or a nicer way, soft porn
Ngoc Ha is definitely sick? Or is that just your opinion from her bloatedness? Damn, she’s one of my fave singers.
Hey! Ur so rite the latest Thuy Nga or Paris by night #79 was showing to much skin and they ARE really over-doing it and I saw it that’s why I know but cut out the image and actually the rhryms and music is sw33t but the last song on cd#2 minh nhieu vu ben nhau is good but they dances a bit weird, I’m Viet so I understnad them a lot, ARE you Vietnamese? at least that’s Ur ethnicity, post me back, if you prefer!
adam ho is SEXy!!
i cant wait for more from him!
I really like “Yeu Lam Chi?”, sung by Tommy Ngo and Lynda Tran Dai. They are the best in the world!!!
Nhu Qyunhg is the best singer in the world with here friend, Tam Doan I think.
I think the first singers in, “Dreams” were the best in the whole Paris by Night category.
Does anyone know if “Nếu Không Có Em Bên Đời” is originally an American or European song? If you know what the title of the original song is please tell me. Thanks :)
wat the hell r u guys talking about….
Curious, it’s a French song. Lam Thuy Van did a version some years ago but no one can beat the original by Joe Dassin- “Es Si Tun Exis tais Pas.”
I agree somewhat with your review. PBN isn’t what it used to be. KD gets annoying with her jokes on NNN about him being old and short, and it’s stupid to hear stereotypes of the female things ie. money, shopping, etc. “Way are you pushing stereotypes, aren’t we supposed to be breaking them down?”
Music-wise, the songs are recycled way too much over and over and over.
Linda and Tommy, don’t like their songs or performances. I used to like Linda’s music before she got married to Tommy.
Sex appeal of the girls, I have to say I enjoyed it but that shouldn’t be the main reason why I watch PBN. Where’s the other good stuff man?
A comment, this guy Donny can not be gay (some of you accused him of being “gay”). He looks at the girls, well that was what I got from reading his review, how can he be gay? Do you less intelligent beings know what gay means? Besides from meaning “happy.” Dumbasses.
PBN is very educational, thanks to NNN, and I hope it will go down the road of being entertaining and educational at the same time for us youths, instead of getting too hyped about the sex appeal stuff.
KTN, thank you very much for the reply. The song is wonderful.
TOMMY AND LYNDA ROCKSSS AND I LOVE THERE SONGS YEU LAM CHI
man u guys rocks and i like lynda songs i almost have the same name as her but then her name spell like lynda and mine is linda. But it sound like the same and u rockss. yeu lam chi is a really great song and i like it. Oh yeah i saw the movie on paris by night and i like when u guys do the glow stick its so cool
PBN-Dream, did anyone notice NCKDuyen boobs were uneven!
her right breast hung lower than her left breast. truly, a project under construction.
for some of you with bad eyesight, heeeeerrrre the 411:
there were no eye candies in PBN.
NNN’s son is not spunky, he is just plain nerdy.
Minh tuyet doesn’t have bubble butt, she has a big fat ass support by those thunder thighs.
finally, if you have limited or no talents, you must masked it somehow….so the general viewing public will be distracted from the obvious…so dream on my PBN’s fans…there are no shame in watching PBN…Definitely it is no UPN.
adieu
my fellow countrymen/women
this is in response to number 70.
get your ass to a rave or something if you like glow stick. what would be awesome if it were all glow in the dark dildo.
stefan, you are too verbose and over the top. my guessed is you’re flaming.
I agree with you on the Sweet Dreams part. It was very boring and plain.
Saigon Sam, wot’s 411 and UBN? Well I actually did like this dvd. There was somethN 4 every1, traditional Ngoc Ha/Quang Le, Khanh Ly, Khanh Ha 4 the older, the under 35s 4 the younger. Nhu Loan, can’t stand her. She’s had that much fixed and her weak voice grates me. I s2 Thuy Tien and I think Ho Le Thu can sing. Tu Quyen/LTQ’s bed romp was just awful, vapid catchy song with such overtly sexual moves it made me sick. As 4 Thuy Van, wot she did was appropriate 2 the song, and she’s got talent. But I think Nguyen Hung, Bang Kieu LTQ could wear better things, they always look mad gay.
Donny, you’re not going to review ‘PBN 80′? I think it’s more up your alley, no bump n grind. No older singers either, it says it’s targeted at the youth. Can’t you open up a forum? The new ‘Van Son’ and ‘Asia’ are nicely sentimental as well.
what the hell, i though the new Paris by night (sweet dream) was a good disk. yall just weird
I have stopped liking thuy nga… however if they don’t change for something fresh it would become pretty boring soon… so i don’t know how else they should go about it than put on more skin and … wat else… more looks… and um… more skin… oh… I already said that…
79th comment for PBN 79; yeah!
First of all u need to shut the f*** up who the h*** do u think u r . Your stupid opinions r bogus u jerk. Thuy nga rocks and u suck a** son’t be hating on a popular asian production u f***** jackass
I agree 100% with Donny about TN Paris. I do watch both dvd “Dream and 81″” and I feel they are too sexy that I cannot enjoy listenning to the music.
I love your comment….makes me laugh my ass off hahahah
WHAT A BAND OF “NHIEU CHUYEN”. IF YOU DON’T ENJOY THE SHOW THEN SHUT THE FUCK UP AND CHANGE YOUR EAR..U KNOW..DO SOMETHING!LISTEN…LET ME CLEAR UP ONE THING: SINGERS’ JOB IS TO PERFORM ON STAGE USING ALL OF THEIR SKILLS ON SINGING AND THEIR CHARISMA IN A FIVE-MINUTE SONG TO ENTERTAIN [YOU!!!] YES ALL OF YOU. IF U DONT LIKE IT THEN OTHERS WILL!!! BOMBARDING WITH NEGATIVE CRITICISMS IS A VICIOUS ACT. CAN U SING BETTER THAN THEM BUNCH OF IDIOTS?????????
You’re right! Why do pple always have to complain? Are they jealous or something? okay let’s get passed with the sex appeal..pple say too much like “J we neglect the lyrics ’cause of the sexy and provocative images running on the screen and gaga…” But hey, this is how it works…just look at the american singers like Beyonce or Britney…so there is no exception for vietnamese pple. We are talented and beautiful so why can’t we? Anything wrong with that?
You also have to know that doing the recycle old songs has a purpose: Thuy Nga wants to keep the tradition alive and since there are lots of old songs that were considered as Top Hits before the VN War, Thuy Nga wants to recall the event for the next generation, as well as to entertain the older generation (since old pple loved and still love them). Of course there are new songs and some which are inspired by chinese or wtv’s melody..but who cares..as long as they entertain you! Thuy Nga only tries to entertain all king of pple of all age!
Btw the “yeu lam chi” song was cool. Who was that bastard saying that that was a waste of time for writing such an idiotic song! Waw u must be the worst judge on Earth and/or GAY! PPLE if u have some negative, unconstructive but USELESS comments, u don’t need to throw them out. Keep it for urself and learn to open your mind and accepting qualities anf flaws.
PBN is something we can be proud of! It ROCKS!!! Keep it up! EVERYONE should buy it…