In this edition of Symphony, the two explain why Bach, Beethoven and Mozart have become more popular in a country that boasts few composers or Western-trained musicians.

Meet local classical artist, Ekachai "Bird" Jearakul who, despite finishing last when he entered his first competition, refused to give up. Three years later, he won that same competition and has since landed several other prizes. The young musician recently thrilled local audiences when he joined maestro Bundit Ungrangsee and the Italian International Orchestra on stage.

But Symphony is not all about classical music. There's also a fascinating article written by Dumras Rodjanapiches, titled "Le Jazz Singer", about the late, great Edith Piaf.

Read about the difficult childhood of this street singer's daughter, her substance abuse, her lovers and her tragic death from cancer at the age of 47.

Sarakadee

Was the recent coup good for the country or was it a major setback for Thailand's democracy? This issue of Sarakadee magazine invites dozens of people, including professors of law and political science, activists and writers, to speak their mind. Some agree with the coup, but many don't. Find out their reasons.

Writer Thanaphol Ewsakul has made a list of the books that have been banned throughout our history and talked to many of the living authors about the reasons behind the bans.

The first book mentioned in the article is "Thai Laws", which was published during the reign of King Rama III.

The 200 copies were banned simply because the nobility was afraid that ordinary folks might become smart and cause trouble! In fact, most books had been removed from shelves for fear that the content would result in uprisings.

Interestingly, some titles were banned during October 1976 uprising just because the authorities felt the names were suspicious.

Massages and spas have long been popular among tourists, and Chakraphan Kangwan brings readers up to date on traditional kneading in the digital world. The article focuses on the traditional Thai massage school at Wat Pho and its increasing popularity among Thais and tourists.

a day

"Without People, We Are Nothing" is the slogan of a day's latest issue, which features the three gurus of the songs-for-life movement.

It's rare that Surachai "Nga" Chanthimathorn, Yuenyong "Ad" Ophakul from Carabao and Phongsit "Poo" Khamphi pose together, and even rarer that we see them in suits and ties.

Inside, fans of the genre can read what they have to say, as well as other songs-for-life proponents including Pongthep "Moo" Kradonchamnan, Hope and Khon Dan Kwien along with new bloods like Sib Lor and Apartment Khun Pa.

Also meet 25-year-old Chookiat "Madiew" Sakweerakul, director of the recently released horror flick "13 Beloved".

Being young doesn't mean he gets any special privileges from the media, people or producers. But he is at least getting as much exposure as veterans Bandit Rittakol and Prachya Pinkaew.

"The only good thing about being young is you enjoy the parties more," he quips.

Apparently some controversial copyright issues may prevent the release of upcoming movie "Pen Choo Kab Phi" ("Unseeable"). While waiting for the decision, films fans can enjoy the "Draft till Done" preview of the posters and handbills.

Praew

There's a bevy of beautiful babes in Praew's latest issue, starting with Pakaramai "Tong" Protanan on the cover, while Sara Malakul Lane, Laila Boonyasak, Waratthaya Nilkhooha and Prairaya Suandokmai pose prettily inside.

The magazine celebrates Halloween, with actors, singers and celebs recounting their spooky encounters.

Actor Jakarin Sunthornsilpchai apparently met a lady in white after taking part in a forbidden game, while singer Nattharat Panuttikorn has had many different experiences with shivery spirits.

There's an in-depth feature on global warning and one on the recent bloodless coup, with the writer showing how warm and friendly the soldiers have been to the public this time around.

Compiled by Worm Boy