Certified Fraud Examiner Mick Chong is a master of criminals, in the professional field of criminology that is. He has practiced and taught in both Singapore and Canada. At the risk of being frisked and manhandled, I-S approaches this master’s world … with due caution.

Dream Theater proves that people can get far just by doing their own thing.

With booms and bangs, indie party organizer Subvert churns out yet another drum ‘n’ bass gig.

One of London’s fastest rising fashion designers, Kim Jones has gained cult status worldwide for his casual yet sleek menswear that made its Paris debut last year. Having graduated from Central St. Martins in 2001, Jones has shown his collections in several ways—from films with Toyin, to a book with American art photographer Luke Smalley, as well as numerous fashion shows. Alongside his own collection, Jones also designs and works for a variety of companies. He designs a range for sports brand UMBRO, entitled UMBRO by Kim Jones, and is also responsible for the range’s visuals, from art direction to photography. Jones’s latest collection is available for the first time in hip boutique Front Row at Ann Siang Hill.

To do what you love as a full time profession is like snagging one of the best deals in life. As a woman, Priscilla Yap finds that being a personal shopper at Tangs is a dream come true. I-S finds out what it’s like to have a job where you shop until you drop.

Talking about a loan shark seems timely after all the partying that has resulted in empty pockets. We at I-S chat up Gareth Armstrong, a veteran performer who looks at Shylock (the moneylender in Shakespeare’s The Merchant of Venice) through the eyes of Tubal, the only other Jew in the story.

For the past five years, singer-songwriter John Legend has been making his presence and work felt in numerous collaborations with various artists—such as penning songs, lending vocals and even playing instruments for Black Eyed Peas, Jay Z, Alicia Keys and Talib Kweli. It is no wonder that Get Lifted, his first album, reveals his soulful songwriting skills. His recording has further elevated him to the status of one of the best R&B and soul musicians today. His nomination in eight categories for the upcoming 48th Grammy Awards is proof that Legend is a force to be reckoned with.

As we said goodbye to 2005 and looked ahead to the new year, I-S hit the streets to find out what Singaporeans are thinking about. Photography by Huang Xiuling and Jason Leong.

Cuban singer Omara Portuondo has been touring the world since the 1950s. Her part in the Buena Vista Social Club returned her to international acclaim in 1995. At 75, the grand dame of Cuban jazz is still sprightly and a bit mischievous. She tells us the story of her life.

To be paid to travel, eat and dine is everybody’s dream. I-S squeezed itself into the schedule of traveling gourmet Michael Lim, the much envied chap who luxuriates in fine cuisine for a living, and pried into his relationship with food. Our finding: He really loves it.