Drafted WWW.DRAFTEDMAGAZINE.COM
ISSUE 7 • NOV 2013 FREE
m c f ly a decade in music FRIENDSHIP, MUSIC, & MAINTAINING EXPECTATIONS
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MISFITS • THE FRATELLIS • WHO'S YOUR HERO? FASHION • SHOPPING • BEAUTY • MUSIC • GOING OUT • CELEBRITY
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contents November 2013
K E E P I N T O U C H Twitter @draftedmagazine • Facebook /draftedmagazine
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34 BLIPPAR Blippar Instructions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 CELEBRITY McFly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Misfits . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34 The Fratellis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 38
EDITOR'S LETTER
FEATURES Role Models . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 I Am Superman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 Harrison’s Fund . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27 Kate Temple Gets Angry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43 Watch This Space… Rory Taylor . . . . . . . . . . 63 Work Experience. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66
he days are getting shorter as the crisp, cold evenings take over and those hazy days of rooftop drinking are now but a distant memory. But fear not for we have rounded up a great selection of waterholes and amazing restaurants to ensure that your social life doesn’t disappear with the sun. On top of covering the latest fashion, top beauty and grooming tips and hottest new bands, we chat to some of the lead actors of E4’s Misfits as they prepare for the series’ finale, catch up with Fratellis frontman Jon Fratelli and speak to dance music legend DJ Yoda. Our Deputy Editor Kyle heads up to Leeds for this month’s Work Experience feature, check out page 66 to find out how he got on training with the England rugby team for the day. Of course, Drafted wouldn’t be complete without some hard hitting articles, with Elisheva Sokolic investigating modern day role models and Henry Fry’s great feature I Am Superman. Our cover shoot this month sees McFly take over Kensington Roof Gardens for the day as they reflect on ten years in the industry. We won’t be surprised if we’re giving them another Drafted cover in 2023 as they’re blowing out twenty candles on their band birthday cake. Hope you enjoy!
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Until next month...
Rivkie Baum
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FASHION Women’s Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Men’s Shopping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Ankle Boots . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Tech Clothing . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11 Women’s Fashion Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 Men’s Fashion Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 MUSIC Austin Mahone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 DJ Yoda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42 New Bands . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 BEAUTY Beauty Story . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 Must-Have Products . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Male Grooming . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Tried And Tested . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55
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LIFESTYLE Restaurants . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58 Bars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 59 French Living . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 Year to Go. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65 THE TEAM
Editor Rivkie Baum rivkie@draftedmagazine.com • Deputy Editor Kyle Goodwin kyle@draftedmagazine.com Fashion Editor Krishan Parmar fashion@draftedmagazine.com • Beauty Editor Kate Temple kate@draftedmagazine.com Features Editor Elisheva Sokolic elisheva@draftedmagazine.com • Staff Writer Matt Russell matt@draftedmagazine.com • Online Editor Michael Bartlett michael@draftedmagazine.com Picture Editor Jay McLaughlin jay@draftedmagazine.com • Designers Kelsey Adams & Duygu Korkut design@draftedmagazine.com Business Development Manager Anastasia Meldrum anastasia@draftedmagazine.com • Commercial Manager Luke Warren luke@draftedmagazine.com Advertising Anastasia Meldrum anastasia@draftedmagazine.com • Feature Contributor Henry Fry • Music Contributors Liam McCreesh, Jono White Photographic Contributors Hanna Hillier, James Hazlett, Claire Harrison • Videographers Barry Curran, Jay McLaughlin • Illustrations Rory Taylor Published By Drafted Media Limited • General Enquiries info@draftedmagazine.com
ROLE MODELS I T’ S OFFICIA L . HA NNAH MONTANA I S DEAD, AN D M IL EY CY RU S IS TW ERKI NG ON H ER GRAVE . Words : ELISHEVA SOKOLIC • Illustration : RORY TAYLOR
s fifteen year old girls the world over decide whether to take her VMA performance as an inspiring message of empowered feminism, or a cautionary tale of the down spiral of decadent celebrity, the world has joined the debate in the loudest outcry since Britney kissed Madonna. And the question on everyone’s lips is, “what kind of a role model is this for our children?” But as Rihanna argued back to Liz Jones’ claim of her being a “toxic role model” she has never campaigned for the title of role model at all; on the contrary, it isn’t one she wants. And maybe she has a point. Does simply being in the public eye, being successful at a career that puts you in the media spotlight, mean that society has a right to herald you as an example to anyone at all, let alone an entire generation of youth? Unfortunately, it appears to be inevitable. Being a celebrity of any kind in this day and age means that your every move could be scrutinised and made public, and that impressionable teens could judge themselves against you. In a way, saying you want the fame without the role model status is like saying you want the cake without the calories. They’re a package deal. If you are fortunate enough to be enjoying the fame and success of celebrity, you should also be aware that your privacy might be compromised, and with the best of intentions, your behaviour emulated, it’s inescapable. This doesn’t mean that the buck stops with the celeb. Far from it. Parents undoubtably have a responsibility to educate their children about the truth behind celebrity and media culture, and bring them up with the values they themselves hold dear. Statistics have shown that with a strong foundation from home, whatever that might be, kids are far less likely to turn to a celebrity figure for guidance on how to dress and behave. In the UK, current studies have shown that under 10% of families ever have an evening meal together, while as much as two
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DOES SIMPLY
BEING IN THE
PUBLIC EYE MEAN
THAT SOCIET Y HAS A RIGHT TO HERALD
YOU AS AN EXAMPLE TO AN ENTIRE GENERATION OF YOUTH?
thirds of kids have asked their parents for more together time. Perhaps these statistics could have an effect on the rise of potentially dangerous celebrity hero worship. So while the complaints about the effects of scandalous celebrity behaviour are causing uproar across the globe, is all it takes to prevent your teen coming home with the wrong kind of ‘rosy cheeks’ a la Cheryl Cole, simply reaching for the casserole dish and cancelling that late meeting?
Clearly there is more to it, and the media itself have a lot to answer for. After all, while many footballers and pop stars are more heavily involved in philanthropy and family values than drugs and infidelity, it is the latter that more often than not make it to the headlines. Role models of the older generations more than likely had just as many skeletons in their closets, but there wasn’t the open society of camera phones and social media networks to name and shame in the same way. Unfortunately, our youth are at a disadvantage, not just because of shameless fame or declining family values, but because of societies emphasis on salacious celebrity gossip and shock culture. No one would argue that with the advent of reality TV, “it girl” culture and glamourised celebrity, the world of fame and fortune has changed beyond recognition in this generation. Truthfully we all bear some of the responsibility towards positive change. While the media certainly has a responsibility to turn the focus towards the positive once in a while, as Meredith Arkley of CNN.com said, Miley Cyrus wouldn’t have been the headline feature had it not attracted the “most eyeballs on our content” possible. The attention and importance we lavish on celebrity gossip only serves to perpetuate the problem. As parents we should all be focusing more on being the role models our children need, and as for the celebrities? A little less giant foam finger would be great, thanks.
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AB NO KO LT ES
Compiled by : KRISHAN PARMAR
opular as ever on this season’s catwalks, ankle boots came in many variations. From Phillip Lim’s peep toe boots to the curved heels of Givenchy – there is no doubt that they will remain a seasonal staple.
M&S £65 www.marksandspencer.com
See by Chloe £290 www.allsole.com
Mango £89.99 www.mango.com
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Valentino £625 www.harrods.com
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H by Hudson £150 www.hudsonshoes.com
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Compiled by : KRISHAN PARMAR
Shirt by Rohan £65 This warm winter shirt comes complete with thermocore technology, is highly breathable, fast drying and super soft. It also contains dynamic moisture control and anti odour silver. www.rohan.co.uk
Jacket by Wrangler £145 This jacket if fully waterproof with bonded seams and a detachable hood. Ensuring that you remain stylish in the rain that is sure to hit London any moment now. www.wrangler-europe.com
Rucksack by Alpinestars £124.95 This heat welded bag by Alpinestars offers a super smooth exterior with virtually no stitching making it an ultra light weight bag that is also waterproof. www.alpinestars.com
Underwear by HOM £32 This innovative underwear protects against the harmful effects of electromagnetic waves from smartphones, thanks to a thin coat of silver material on the front. This high tech fibre is also anti bacterial, anti odour and conducts heat. www.hom.com
Supercharge by Jack Wolfskin Supercharge is both comfortable and practical offering no-compromise weather protection. Whether you’re skiing, mountain climbing or want extreme weather protection in the city with a breathable jacket, this jacket ticks all the boxes. The stretchy 3-layer laminate fabric is very waterproof, hard wearing, provides basic insulation while the soft jersey inner makes it soft next to the skin.
Boot by Rockport £130 These boots by Rockport incorporate a shock absorbing sports technology in the heel of the foot bed called ADIPRENE by Adidas which extends walking time and reduces impact.
Woodrow Jacket by Aigle 3-in -1 jacket with removable hood. The clean lines make it a modern and versatile design for all types of weather. MTD® fabrics is developed and guaranteed by AIGLE. MTD® clothing offers unbeatable protection and comfort for all kind of weather. The material and the seams are totally water-resistant. It also allows excellent evacuation of the moisture produced by the body.
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FROM LEFT TOM: Shirt Element • Jacket Superdry • Jeans Topman HARRY: Jacket & Tee by Superdry DANNY: Tee by American Apparel • Jeans & Jacket by Topman • Shoes by Clarks DOUGIE: Jeans by Topman • Jumper by American Apparel • Shoes & Jeans Dougie's Own
ADecade in Music Words : KYLE GOODWIN
HA VI NG ACH I EVED EVERYTH IN G Y OU CAN P OSSIB LY H OP E F OR WH E N Y OU FI RST START A BAND, M C FL Y AR E ST ILL R E AP IN G T H E R E WAR DS OF TH E H ARD W ORK, P ASSION AN D DE DIC AT ION T H E Y ’ VE IN J ECTED I NTO TH E GROU P SIN CE DAY ON E . AS T H E Y P R E P AR E FOR TH EI R TEN YEAR AN N IVE R SAR Y CE LE B R AT ION S, DRAFTED’S K YLE G OODWIN CAT CH E S U P WIT H TH E FOUR-PI ECE T O DISCU SS M E M OR IE S, LANDMAR KS AN D B R OT H E R -LIKE F R IE N DSH IP S...
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Photographer Jay McLaughlin • Stylist Rivkie Baum • Styling Assistant Danielle Fowler • Grooming Nadia Altinbas • Shot on Location at Kensington Roof Gardens COVER CREDITS TOM: Jacket by Superdry • Shirt by Wrangler • Jeans by Topman • Shoes by Nike DOUGIE: Shirt by Original Penguin • Jeans by Topman • Jewellery Dougie's Own DANNY: Tee by Diesel • Jacket by Edwin • Jeans by Topman • Shoes by Clarks HARRY: Tee by Scotch and Soda • Jacket and Jeans by Topman • Shoes by Harry's Own
ION E5 PAG UCT SEE INSTR
this ch blippe to wat g pa ind the tage beh nes fooIPPAR sce FOR BL S...
decade in any job is an impressive achievement. But in the modern music business, where popularity can be a passing ship in the night, 10 years is unachievable milestone for most. For McFly, the last 10 years has seen them shift 10million albums, pick up countless awards (including a Brit Award for Best Pop Act), sell out arena tours across the globe, and build themselves into something of an institution. On a September afternoon, we find them sitting in the lustrous surroundings of Kensington Roof Gardens, encircled by flamingos (just how we roll here at Drafted), casually preparing for their own decade celebrations. In a few days’ time, they’ll be taking to the stage at the Royal Albert Hall – for four consecutive nights – to ring in their landmark birthday as a band. And today, Danny Jones, Tom Fletcher, Dougie Poynter and Harry Judd are as excited as they were back in year one. Their sixth fulllength album is set for release in Spring next year, and all four of those RAH shows were resounding sell-outs. When it comes to longevity as a band, the attitude you exude both internally and externally can be equally as crucial as the music you put out there. It’s an attitude that, between them, McFly have naturally had in abundance since the day they formed. “I think a lot of people get into the music business for the wrong reasons,” begins drummer Harry Judd, the backbone to McFly’s musical and personal infrastructure. “We never really set out to get invited to VIP clubs with free champagne and have photographers everywhere. I never thought in a million years I’d be successful with a band, it just happened within six
a
DANNY T-shirt, Shoes & Jeans Danny's Own Jacket by Superdry Shirt by GStar
HARRY T-Shirt & Jacket by Superdry Jeans by Topman 14
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months. We all loved performing and playing music but it’s not like we desperately wanted to be famous. We didn’t really know about that world so we had no aspirations to be in it.” McFly’s reluctance to fully submerge themselves in celebrity culture is what makes them an enigma in the modern musical landscape, and it creates a very humble atmosphere around them. Through it all, they remain four people who play music because it’s what they love most in life. And while the offshoot of stardom can easily start overshadowing the art itself, to McFly, any part of the job that doesn’t involve writing, playing or recording music appears to be nothing more than a faintly awkward but necessary inconvenience. “We’re not really that good at being famous,” explains Tom Fletcher, one half of the vocal / guitar / songwriting combination
– along with Danny – that makes up McFly’s sound. “You know those red carpet events? We’re probably the most uncomfortable people there. It’s not that we hate the fame that comes with being in a band – they go handin-hand – being famous is just a by-product of our success in the music business. It’s a vital part of it. But we don’t take it too seriously. We have a very nice level of celebrity where it’s there for us when we need to go promote a new album but we don’t have paparazzi sat outside our homes. It’s a really good balance when it comes to fame versus normality.” You don’t need to spend much time in McFly’s company to realise they’re as close as brothers. Watch any of the countless interviews and acoustic performances with them on YouTube, and you’ll see just how much they bounce off each other - whether the mics are on or off. The bond here crosses over into something much deeper – between the four of them there’s a balance of characters that compliment each individual’s traits and personalities – and that’s a luxury that only a band of best friends can enjoy. “I don’t think we’d have made it past a
ABOVE
DOUGIE
Outfit Dougie's Own RIGHT
TOM Jacket by Superdry Shirt by Edwin Tee by Scotch and Soda Jeans by Topman Shoes by Nike
YOU KNOW THOSE RED C ARPET EVENTS? WE’RE PROBABLY THE MOST
UNCOMFORTABLE PEOPLE THERE. – TOM FLETCHER
year if our friendships weren’t this strong,” Tom continues. “It’s the overriding factor in our longevity. If you’re a band for Ten years you go through good times and bad times, especially if your success comes overnight and very early on. If you’re not the best of friends then it can start to unravel when the excitement and novelty of success mellows out. It’s our friendship that’s pulled us through all the tough times.” “The band is more than just a job,” adds Harry. “It’s what we like to do for fun. Having wives and families are obviously important but, with the band it’s almost a responsibility we have. It’s like Batman, we have a duty. We’re like Batmen. With all the crazy things we get to do, it essentially all boils back down to us sitting together in a hotel room, eating takeaway going: ‘Dude, what you do if Natalie Portman was in the room right now’? Being in a band is a cycle that never gets old.” Regardless of the Number One singles, the numerous awards, the millions of album sales, the screaming girls and the arena tours, there’s no room for egos when you’re surrounded by your best mates 24 hours a day. Staying cool just goes without saying. Of course, whenever your work lives and personal lives intersect there will be tensions. Putting up with disagreements, petty arguments and bad moods comes with the territory but what happens when there’s a minor fall out before
WITH THE BAND IT ’S ALMOST A
RESPONSIBILIT Y WE HAVE.
IT ’S LIKE BATMAN, WE HAVE A DUT Y. WE’RE LIKE BATMEN.
– HARRY JUDD
a big show? How easy is it to put anything personal to one side and purely focus on the job ahead? “It’s only happened once,” Harry confesses. “Tom and I had a little argument on the Busted tour years ago and then we went straight on stage. But as soon as the lights go up, everything is put to one side. If we’ve ever annoyed each other we always just wake up the next day and it’s all forgotten about. Nothing’s that big a deal.” “Not for me,” Tom jokingly interjects. “I write it all down. I’ve got a list of every time you guys have pissed me off. I’ve got the date and time and everything.” Laughter erupts around the room, not for the first time in the day. Being in a band can keep you feeling young forever (or at least allow you to pretend you’re young forever), and for McFly, it’s been an excuse to put off that whole growing up thing for many years. “Being in a band keeps you very young at heart,” Tom smiles. “In a lot of ways the group dynamic hasn’t really changed much. Even though outside the band we’re a bit wiser about the world and more experienced in life, we’re still doing the same s*** we did Ten years ago and still finding the same bad jokes funny. We spend half of our lives in the back of cars and hotels rooms, you have to have that immaturity to stay sane. But we’re a bit more mature about our roles now, though, and where McFly fits in the UK. We’re all a bit more
FROM LEFT TOM: Jacket by Superdry • Shirt by Wrangler • Jeans by Topman • Shoes by Nike DANNY: Tee by Diesel • Jacket by Edwin Jeans by Topman • Shoes by Clarks HARRY: Tee by Scotch and Soda • Jacket & Jeans by Topman • Shoes by Harry's Own DOUGIE: Shirt by Original Penguin • Jeans by Topman • Jewellery Dougie's Own 16
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comfortable with everything. It means we can just enjoy it all.” As McFly have matured, bought property and started families, so have the fans that were with them from day one. Of course they’ve picked up many new fans along the way, some younger and some much older (with Harry’s appearance on Strictly Comes Dancing attracting attention from far outside their average demographic), their fanbase has always been built on a loyal core. With each year that passes they’ve gone through the same set of emotions – the excitement, the panic and the downright confusion – all the while experiencing McFly’s journey with them every step of the way. “Our relationship with our fans has definitely evolved over the years,” reflects Tom. “Not only have we got older, but our fans have got older as well. Fans who were 15 or 16 when we first came out are now in their mid-twenties, they’ve been to uni and got jobs; some of them are married and have kids now. What’s nice with that first batch of McFly fans is that their lives have settled down in the same way ours have over the last few years.” Growing as people is one thing; we all eventually get to that point in life where our priorities may start to shift. It’s natural. But growing as a songwriter can bring tricky altercations, especially when your fans and record label expect a certain sound. “We do write songs that occasionally aren’t quite right for McFly,” says Danny. “It’s hard because sometimes they can be some of our favourite songs at the time, but you have to be ruthless and just put them to one side. But those songs can
work later on down the line, like ‘One For The Radio’. At the time it just wasn’t right for the album we were doing, but a few years later it was absolutely perfect for ‘Radio: Active’. You’ve got to trust that your fans are going to go on the journey with you, though. If you’re just trying to rewrite the hits you wrote ten years ago you’ll end up sounding like yourself covering yourself. You need to set new standards.” Settling down McFly may be, but they’ve got no intentions of slowing down. ‘Love Is On The Radio’ – their twenty-seventh single – is set for release next month, with their sixth album to follow in spring next year. Four nights at The Royal Albert Hall may have given them a chance to reflect on their achievements over the last decade, but now it’s time to look forward. McFly transcends being just a band – at this point they’re a musical institution – and for Harry, Tom, Danny, and Dougie (and every single fan who’s shared the journey so far with them), that’s not something to turn your back on. McFly's new single 'Love Is On The Radio' is released November 24th. The live CD / DVD '10th Anniversary - Live at The Albert Hall' is released December 9th. McFly's sixth album will be released spring 2014. www.mcflyofficial.com CELEBRITY
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I am
superman I F Y O U HA D SUPERPOWERS, W H AT WR ON GS WOU LD Y OU R I G HT , A ND WHAT VI LLAI NS W OULD YOU SLAY ? WIT H A M AN O F ST E E L S E Q U EL I N TH E PI PELI NE, SUP E R H E R OE S AR E ST ILL B IG B U S INE S S . WH Y DO W E LOVE TH EM SO M U CH ? AN D IS T H E L YC R A E S S E NT IA L, OR CAN WE AL L BE SE C R E T S U P E R M E N I N J E A N S AN D A T - S HIR T? Words : HENRY FRY
I
hope you’re into superheroes – because we’re set to see a lot more of them in the near future. It was recently announced that Ben Affleck will be playing Bruce Wayne against Henry Cavill’s Clark Kent in the 2015 follow-up to this year’s Man of Steel. The film was a successful reboot to the Superman franchise, making £417 million at the global box office. Similarly, remakes like The Amazing Spiderman – the sequel of which is billed for next year – and Iron Man, the third installment, which came out in April this year, have been huge money-makers and popular big-budget interpretations of the classic comic book stories. But why are we still so into them? There was a time when it was only the nerdy and the young who would openly admit to VHS recording the cartoons, buying up expensive comic book first editions and attending conventions in homemade cat suits. Much like the London Olympics, I am surprised at how into them I am. Is it something to do with nonchallenging adventure in a format I know will provide thrills, spills and cheesy dialogue? Or does it symbolise good prevailing over evil in the wider world? In June, Vladimir Putin signed a bill that basically waged war on homosexuality in Russia. Yet it was not just a war on gay people per ce, it was on anyone ‘promoting gay propaganda’. Meaning essentially, anyone suspected of being gay, discussing homosexuality with under 18’s or just standing up for equality. If this stinks of Nazism, that’s because that’s what it is. If it stinks of bad guy wrong doing – ditto. By actively encouraging hatred against one group, Putin is setting up a cloak under which anyone he doesn’t like can be covered. “Excuse me, sir, is that a prodemocracy flag you’re waving? You look a bit gay. You’re gonna have to come with me.” It has been suggested that homosexuals are being used as a scapegoat in Putin’s polit-
ical plan, as he tries to gain favour with the conservative right. As Hitler singled out the Jews to blame for various social and political problems, so Putin is fanning the flames of hatred against someone else to distract from the heat he’s feeling himself. These are the actions of your typical comic book villain. It is at moments like this that I wish I had super powers. If I possessed the strength of Clark Kent I would fly over to Moscow, smash down the walls of the Kremlin, roll the bill into a ball, ingest it, then spit bite-sized super chunks on a projectile into the stratosphere. The press might label me ‘Equality Man’ or maybe even dispense with lyricism altogether and go straight for ‘Gay Man’. But I would be happy just with ‘Man’, as that is, after all, the species we all belong to, despite Adolf Hitler, Chairman Mao and now Vladimir Putin’s apparent beliefs to the contrary. Pussy Riot, with their colourful balaclava masks, almost looked like a team of superheroes ready to take on the Lex Luthurian dictator with their weapon of choice – music. And in many ways they have become iconic heroines for a country in the ever-tightening grip of a Doctor Doom-like doctrine. In fact, Iron Man was created as a symbol of American Capitalism at the height of the Cold War. Clark Kent himself has even been lauded as a representation of Jewish equality. Superman creator Jerry Siegel said he wanted to create a hero that could stand up against the threat of the Nazi regime. Using the powers of the internet, rather than flight, American actor Wentworth Miller publically came out in a letter to a Russian film festival in August. He said he was unable to accept their invitation, stating, “As a gay man, I must decline”. Turns out he doesn’t just act the hero on TV. It’s simple, brave actions like
this that can make superheroes of any of us. Yet we may not feel that we can stand up – balaclava, cape or just in our own skin – and demand the change we want to see in the world. We don’t want to put ourselves on the front line because, I have to break this to you guys, no matter how many bench-presses we do, none of us actually are super human. Unlike those in comics, super powers in the real world are less ostentatious and more likely to be seen in small acts of kindness. Or they might not be seen at all. They may possess the most coveted of super powers – invisibility. I think our fascination with superheroes is enduring because they stand for justice and, with a comforting, almost god-like aura will rebalance the world and set all wrongs to right. They are symbols to believe in, icons of simplistic egalitarian truth. With Sochi 2014 approaching, I cannot help but feel less excited than when we all went mad for the London Olympics. That was about a nation coming together to celebrate our athletes and our achievements. Sochi 2014 is already about divisions and oppression. Is it possible we might see a similar scene to Hitler storming out of the 1936 Berlin Olympics when Jesse Owens ran his way to the first of four gold medals in the 100 metres? I hope not. I hope the people with powers greater than ours will use them for good, instead of evil. Similarly, we can try out small acts of heroism in our own lives. We don’t need capes or masks. With our hidden super powers we can still save the world a little bit at a time.
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CREDITS Photographer James Hazlett- Beard • Fashion Director Krishan Parmar • Stylist Tawfi Khoury • Make-up Annam Butt using MAC • Hair Ann-Marie Lawson using Bumble Bumble LEFT Jacket & Trousers by River Island • Blouse by Samsoe Samsoe • Coat by Won Hundred • Bag by Aspinal Of London
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RIGHT Blouse by Roxy • Sweater & Skirt by United Colours of Bennetton • Jacket by Sisley • Bag by Accessorize LEFT Trousers and Blouse by Carolina Herrera • Coat by Sisley • Shoes by United Nude • Bag by Bank
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RIGHT Top by Next • Jacket by Samsoe samsoe • Trousers by Next • Bag by Bank • Shoes by United Nude LEFT Blouse by Beautiful Soul • Dungarees by ASOS • Jacket by Samsoe Samsoe • Boots by Simmi • Bag by Kate Sheridan
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this blippe to pag ate to fund don rison’s ey har ough giv PAR thr FOR BLIPS...
ION E5 PAG UCT SEE INSTR
loveable cause
W E ’ D L IKE T O I NTRODUCE YOU TO A LE X SM IT H , F OU N DE R O F H A RRI SO N ’ S FUND... Words : KYLE GOODWIN
ometimes you just have to take matters into your own hands. When Alex Smith, founder of Harrison’s Fund, was informed that his son had been diagnosed with a muscle wasting condition, and wouldn’t live past his early twenties, taking matters into his own hands is precisely what he did. “In January 2011 my eldest son was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy,” Alex begins, speaking to Drafted from a coffee shop in Cobham. “Because of Duchenne his muscles are deteriorating, he doesn’t produce the enzyme we all need for our muscles to grow and repair. We were told by our doctor to take our son home, look after him and give him a good life because there’s nothing we can do. I’m quite a belligerent chap, though, and I decided that really wasn’t acceptable, it just wasn’t good enough – so we decided to start a charity and make a difference.” Looking through pictures of Harrison, you would never imagine he was anything but an energetic, healthy young boy. However, Duchenne causes muscles to deteriorate at an alarming rate; and according to doctors, Harrison will lose the ability to walk by the time he’s a teenager. Like all boys diagnosed with Duchenne, the fear is that he’ll die in his late teens or early twenties from heart or respiratory failure. And this is why Harrison’s
S
WE WERE TOLD
TO TAKE OUR SON
HOME, LOOK AF TER
HIM AND GIVE HIM A GOOD LIFE BEC AUSE THERE’S NOTHING WE C AN DO.
Fund was set up – to do everything humanly possible to avoid or prolong this heartbreaking fate. “The first stages of setting up the charity were looking through the market place,” Alex continues, “seeing if we were just going to be repeating what other people were already doing, and seeing if we should be supporting other people instead, rather than doing it ourselves. We looked at some of the charities out there and we thought they weren’t really doing as good a job as we felt they should be, which is why decided to set up Harrison’s Fund.” Since Harrison’s Fund started, it has grown rapidly month-by-month; with its team of volunteers increasing steadily in the process. People have been genuinely moved by Alex’s efforts and have gone above and beyond their call of duty to lend a helping hand in whatever way they can. “We now have a whole team of volunteers behind us who are helping with the various aspects,” Alex tells us. “The support’s been incredible. In our first ten months we raised £100,000 and to date we’ve raised over £300,000. A lot of that has come from putting on some very good events, which have been really well supported. But for the most part it’s from people going out there and saying, “I’m going to do something epic today’. We had someone do a 25km ultramarathon swim in Dubai. It was incredible. We’ve raised tens of thousands of pounds just from bake sales - from people baking, selling and promoting cakes. It’s amazing. Our mission statement is to raise as much money as possible to get into the hands of the best researchers to find a cure for Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.” Momentum is building, and giant strides are being made in gene therapy and molecular medicine. You can Blipp this page to donate to Harrison’s Fund, aiding the research that could bring Duchenne therapies to the market. For Donna and Alex Smith, Harrison’s Mum and Dad, any help will no doubt be deeply appreciated.
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CREDITS Photographer Adam Robertson • Grooming Samantha Cooper using Aveda • Model Jonty @ Nevs • Styling Krishan Parmar LEFT Shirt by Brutus Trimfit • Suit by Common People • Jacket by Duck & Cover • Bag by Topman • Shoes by Clarks RIGHT Roll Neck by Topman • Blazer by Next • Jacket by Jeff Banks @ Debenhams • Trousers by Le Coq Sportif • Bag by Ted Baker exclusive to Westfield Stratford for 5th birthday
CREDITS Photographer Alexei Izmaylov • Fashion Editor Krishan Parmar • Hair Dave Noble using Tommy Guns • MUA Annam Butt using Radical Skin Care • Models McInnes @ NEVs & Jamel @Models1
LEFT MCINNES WEARS: Top by Majestic Athletic • Sweater by G-Star • Coat by Calvin Klein • Long Johns by Uniqlo • Socks by Pringle • Boots by Rockport • Bag by RAINS JAMEL WEARS: Shirt by Pepe Jeans • Sweatshirt by Champion • Jacket by Quicksilver • Scarf by G-Star • Trousers by Champion • Socks by Pringle • Boots by CAT Footwear • Bag by G-Star RIGHT JAMEL WEARS: Hat by Topman • Jumper by Manuel Ritz • Gillet by Victorinox • Coat by Parka London • Watch by G Shock
rise & shine
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LEFT MCINNES WEARS: Glasses by Quicksilver • Top by Calvin Klein • Jacket by Majestic Athletic • Trousers by Quicksilver • Scarf by Victorinox RIGHT MCINNES WEARS: Shirt by Timberland • Jumper by Farrell • Coat by Sandro • Trousers by Majestic Athletic • Boots by Rockport • Bag by Stighlorgan
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LEFT MCINNES WEARS: Hat by Farrell • Top by Religion • Sweater by tourne de transmission • Gillet by Pepe London • Scarf by Love Denim • Watch by G Shock RIGHT JAMEL WEARS: Jumper by Ben Sherman • Gillet by Duvetica • Hat by Uniqlo
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mis fits
W I TH TH E BAFTA WIN N IN G SE R IE S COM IN G B AC K F OR IT S SW AN SONG, DRAFTED’S M AT T R U SSE LL SAT DOWN WIT H T H E STARS OF M IS FITS TO DISCU SS LIF E ON T H E SE T , P R AC T ICAL JOK ES, AND TH E LEGACY OF T H E P OP U LAR E 4 SE R IE S. Words : MAT T RUSSELL Photography : HANNA HILLIER Styling : KRISHAN PARMAR Grooming : LAUREN BAKER www.prettyraw.co.uk using Aveda skin & hair care, Jane Iredale cosmetics With thanks to : GRACE BAR www.grace-bar.co.uk
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isfits was never destined to be your average show: with telekinetic characters turning invisible at will and cast members morphing into turtles, the multiaward winning E4 drama took the superhero genre and spun it on its axis in an ambitious and utterly unique way. Misfits is now one of the top ten watched shows on 4oD since the service launched in 2006, clocking up 43million VOD views. The show has won countless awards, has launched the careers of directors and actors, and played an intricate part in the continued success of E4. The show’s final season is coming this autumn and hints from creator Howard Overman and co give the distinct impression they’re planning on going out with a bang. With such a large and loyal following, we asked the newer of the cast members how it was coming into the much loved series at such an important time in defining its legacy? “We’ve been put in a quite a difficult position,” starts Matt Stokoe, “but it’s a fantastic position because the show’s built up a really strong fan base based on a select number of characters. But there was a shake up and the cast changed. And with that we’re in a position where you don’t want to feel like you’re just stepping into someone else’s shoes. I think that would be the case if the writing wasn’t so good – the script’s been catered to subvert expectations. The new characters are really original, it’s not just like they’ve replaced the old characters.”
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IT ’S NOT AN EASY THING
FOR A DIRECTOR TO TRUST A LOAD OF STUPID ACTORS - JOSEPH GILGUN “There are no two characters out of the five series that are that similar,” adds Nathan McMullen. “It’s a completely new cast but the writing is so good you can’t really go, ‘He’s a replacement for him, she’s a replacement for her’. They’re all individuals.” Subversively funny and constantly pushing boundaries with time-shifting storylines and bizarre character traits, Misfits is renowned for its unique writing. Nevertheless, great writing has to be backed up by great acting – and it’s this combination, infused with the actor’s personal takes on the script, that gives real depth to the show. “It’s not an easy thing for a director to trust a load of stupid actors,” laughs Joseph Gilgun. “I remember in my first season I had to go have a chat about my ad-libbing. They were like, ‘Listen, you can’t do that’. But I just didn’t listen. Without injecting a bit of yourself into it, it won’t be as natural. You end up thinking about what to do with your character rather than just feeling it.”
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“It’s not just on screen that we’re given the room to do that,” McMullen picks up. “We’ve found this year that we’d talk about things off set and a couple of episodes later some of those conversations would make it into the script. We had this afternoon where we were talking about which Scooby Doo characters we’d be – obviously nobody wanted to be Shaggy – but literally two episodes later it was in the script. We were going, ‘How do they hear this stuff?’” Though incredibly funny, at times there’s plenty of darkness in this tale of modern outcasts struggling to come to terms with their societal dislocation. On top of that they also have to deal with the occasional A-grade super-powered villain. As an acting job it definitely runs the gambit of emotions, yet the camaradarie on set certainly helps gets the best out of the talented cast. “There’s just raucous laughter on set right up until the word action,” continues Gilgun. “It’s harmoniously anarchic – that’s probably the best way to summarise what it’s like off-camera. Trouble is, there’s a lot to get done and you do get to a stage where everyone’s sleep deprived and you’re not even sure if what you’ve done is any good or not. But the atmosphere is always great.” It’s self-evident by their relaxed demeanour that the cast get on incredibly well, but life on set can be notoriously testing. With long periods of waiting around in between takes and setting up equipment, it comes as no surprise that the actors sometimes turn to tomfoolery as a way to pass the time. “It’s pretty mental on set,” says Stokoe. “Everyone’s constantly doing crazy things or climbing up stuff or giving each other wedgies. It’s like a
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WE PUT AN IDEAL ON SUPERHEROES AND MISFITS TAKES THAT AWAY.
IT SPEAKS TO PEOPLE AND SAYS,
‘ YOU ARE DIFFERENT AND THAT ’S OKAY ’ - MAT T STOKOE
massive family reunion – everyone tries to wind everyone up. There was a day where I was filming something and I came back to my room and it was completely empty. Out my window there was a piece of string with a sign saying ‘Do Not Pull Me’. I had to really carefully pull this string and all my stuff from my room fell off the roof.” “I’ll say now,” Gilgun confesses, “that took hours. I was s******* myself on that roof. It was worth it, though, just to piss him off. All the messing about is crucial. You’re there for five months, if you don’t have a laugh at work you’d go insane.” With Misfits now having been sold to 100 territories including the US, Latin America, Russia and Scandinavia – the show is truly worldwide. Having won a raft of awards, including BAFTA Television Awards (Best Drama Series and Best Supporting Actress, Lauren Socha) and Broadcast Digital Awards, this last series is likely to cement the legacy
of the much-loved show and the cast have an interesting angle on how they would like the series, and its super-asbo character study to be remembered. “If you look at the reasons why superheroes have been invented,” explains Stokoe, “it’s to express an ideal. Superman exists as how America sees itself – as the noble, stronger than everyone else superpower that’s capable of saving anybody. Batman is how the rest of the world sees America – the hero we don’t want but kind of need. We put an ideal on superheroes and Misfits takes that away. It speaks to people and says, ‘You are different and that’s okay’.”
www.e4.com/misfits All clothing by Ted Baker.
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THE FRATELLIS B I G S MIL E S W ENT AROUND TH E DR AF T E D OF F ICE WH E N W E GO T A CA L L SAYI NG TH E FRATELLIS AR E R E LE ASIN G A N EW A L B U M. NATURALLY, WE I MMEDI A T E LY B OOKE D IN F OR A C H AT WIT H L E AD SI NGER AND SONGW R IT E R J ON FR A T E LLI... LLI hey say absence makes the heart grow fonder, but in the case of Glaswegian indie rockers The Fratellis it also makes the heart grow wiser, stronger and (ever-so-slightly) more sensible. For frontman John Lawler – who you probably know by stage name Jon Fratelli – the time apart has been spent pursuing other equally quirky and well-crafted musical ventures, firstly with new band Codeine Velvet Club, (who he founded with singer/songwriter Lou Hickey), and then followed by his own solo project (with debut album ‘Psycho Jukebox’ released in 2011). Five years have passed since The Fratellis’ last record ‘Here We Stand’, and with an indefinite hiatus announced a year later many fans were left wondering if we’d ever hear from the blisteringly anthemic Scots again. But with new release ‘We Need Medicine’ out last month, it seems that, as well as picking up where they left off, The Fratellis are also picking up exactly where they first started. “It
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this ch blippe to watlis’ new pag fratel even ’ the o for ‘s nights vide s seven PPAR day OR BLIS...
F ION E5 PAG UCT SEE INSTR
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Words : KYLE GOODWIN
really is a nice thing to just go out and play guitar with your friends again,” smiles Lawler. “It just doesn’t change. You just pick it up where you left it, really - which is pretty much what we’ve done. Almost nothing changes. Maybe we’re slightly more sensible, although I hope not. I’d like to think we haven’t become too sensible just yet.” Success, at its core, can be a double edged sword. In one sense, it’s a manifestation of the long hours, dedication and passion you’ve put into a project – everything you’ve been working towards - but it can also bring with it a pressure and expectation that, if not dealt with in the right way, can swiftly become a burden on everyone involved. 2006’s ‘Costello Music’, The Fratellis’ first full-length, made an immediate impact on the British public, debuting at Number Two in the UK Album Chart (selling over 1million copies) and leaving thousands of people across the country with songs like ‘Chelsea Dagger’ endlessly stuck in
their heads. The album’s success saw them go on to win ‘Best British Breakthrough Act’ at the 2007 BRIT Awards – according to Lawler, though, that kind of instant acclaim isn’t always what’s best for a relatively new band. “It’s strange, but sometimes the quicker things go well in your profession the more strain it puts on your personal relationships,” Lawler confesses. “We kind of got caught up in the non-stop work thing that tends to happen when things start going okay for you. I think at the time we probably outstayed our welcome with each other. And it’s nice to know that we haven’t, and nice to find out that it wasn’t the case. But these are the stupid things you do without thinking, I guess. I try not to over think things but sometimes you can be guilty of under thinking certain things, too.” This time around things are very different for The Fratellis. They’ve already experienced the whirlwind of fame. They’ve gone through the majestic highs and battled through the inevitable lows. They know what to expect. And when you know what to expect nothing can be a surprise. Lawler talks in a tranquil tone. He considers everything he says before he speaks, and when he does express his thoughts, he expresses them with the calming energy of a man who’s learnt some very valuable lessons – not just about life and how to deal with the music business – but more significantly about himself and the personal relationships he holds with those close to him. “I find it very hard to find anything to particularly care
about other than making records and going out to play for people,” he says. “I definitely got caught up in too many of the ins-and-outs of the music industry – all that stuff that you have no control over like record sales and how much radio play you’re getting. But when you come out the other end of that you kind of find yourself in a position where you really don’t
and brain-piercing vocal melodies that made them a staple of modern British music when they first hit the airwaves in 2006. ‘We Need Medicine’ promises fans more of the same, and with the band’s sound having picked up an added depth of maturity, as well as keeping their original charm, colour and songwriting class, it has all the makings of a truly classic Fratellis record. “We’ve realised what it is we are as a band,” Lawler explains. “Once you get your head around that life becomes easier. With the second Fratellis record that got slightly confused. I think that just happens from starting a band and getting success quickly. You don’t really have time to pay any attention to it. When I had time to take stock I thought, ‘Well maybe I don’t want to be that kind of band’. But this time around I’m not concerned with how people perceive us, and that might be something I got too caught up in before. We’re very happy with how this new record feels.” Sometimes there’s nothing healthier in life than a fresh slate – an empty page that doesn’t rely on the past to generate its future. And an empty page is exactly what The Fratellis have in front of them right now, ready to be care. You realise that it really doesn’t matter. filled in with the next chapter of their journey. So now I really just couldn’t care less. I hope, Whatever’s gone on before is forgotten, and because of that, this is a record that sounds with ‘We Need Medicine’ hitting shops last like it doesn’t care what anybody thinks of it.” month that next chapter has officially begun. From what we’ve heard so far, The Fratellis are back doing what they do best. New single ‘Seven Days, Seven Nights’ is 'We Need Medicine’ is out now. packed full of the idiosyncratic guitar riffs www.thefratellis.com
I THINK AT
THE TIME WE PROBABLY
OUTSTAYED OUR WELCOME
WITH EACH OTHER.
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austin mahone:
boy wonder US S INGE R AUS TIN M AHONE H AS CO VE R E D AN AWF U L LOT OF G RO U ND IN T H E LAST 12 MONTH S. W E M E T WIT H T H E VIR AL SE NS A T IO N T O D ISCUSS H I S PLANS FOR BR IT ISH DOM IN AT ION ... Words : MATT RUSSELL
A
ustin Mahone may only be 17 but he’s already teetering on the edge of full-blown superstardom. Many people would consider 120million YouTube views, 4million Twitter followers and touring with the likes of Taylor Swift and Ed Sheeran as already being pretty successful, but as Mahone tells Drafted, he’s only just getting started. This month the singer/songwriter hopes to stamp his mark on the UK Charts with the release of first single ‘What About Love’, produced by Red One. Having risen to stardom via the internet, the US pop sensation managed to sell out New York’s Best Buy Theatre in a matter of minutes; a meteoric feat considering he was unsigned at the time. Nevertheless, having taken home the Artist To Watch award at the MTV Video Music Awards it seems Mahone is still slightly astounded by the impact he’s made in his short time in the industry. “I couldn’t believe it,” he tells us. “Honestly, I never thought I’d ever win a VMA in my life. It was the greatest day ever. I still can’t believe it 40
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now. I’m so grateful to my fans. I would never have won that award without them.” With his first single reaching Number Five in the US Singles Chart in less than 24 hours, and later going on to enter the Top Ten in 27 countries, Mahone is hoping for similar success on these shores, too – a task that doesn’t seem too far out of reach considering the reception he’s received here already. At what was supposed to be a small meet and greet, chaos ensued as thousands of fans descended on Box Park in Shoreditch. “I had no idea so many people would turn up,” Mahone recalls. “I just thought, ‘Oh cool, I’m going to London’. But sure enough I got off the plane and there were thousands of girls in the street. My fans are so dedicated, it’s amazing. I love London. I can’t wait to come back.” With success rushing at him at such an astonishing pace it’s no wonder the 17-yearold has his fair share of celebrity friends. Taylor Swift, Drake and Selena Gomez are all acquaintances of the young superstar, however, when it comes to rubbing shoulders with the famous, it doesn’t come much bigger
than performing for the President at the White House – and, of course, he got the leader of the free world, and his family, busting some moves on the dance floor. “He invited me to his Easter Egg Roll party,” Mahone explains. “That was probably one of the coolest things I’ve done so far, even just being on the lawn and seeing the White House in person was just incredible. But I got to meet him, and his daughters, and his dogs, and sing for his family, it was very special for me. I got his whole family dancing.” With Austin’s video for ‘What About Love’ (with 4.8million views in the first week) being directed by Colin Tilley (Chris Brown, Justin Timberlake, Justin Bieber, Usher and Plan B), it appears the singer is keeping the right company. Many artists want different things from their careers – be it instant success, creative integrity or longevity – but Mahone, with the world still at his feet, wants it all. “I want to still be selling out arenas and stadiums when I’m 60,” he smiles. “I want to be the biggest thing in the world and be a music icon. I want people to be talking about my music for the rest of time and keep sharing my music with the world.” www.austinmahone.com
See me burst with Blippar...
1. Download the app 2. Scan the pack 3. Boom!
LORd of the djs
F RE S H FRO M H I S SET AT BESTI VA L ( AN D ST ILL IN T H E R E C O V E RY PRO CESS), DRAFTED CATCH UP WIT H DAN C E M U SIC F I G U RE HE A D DJ YODA – AKA DUNCAN B E IN Y – T O T ALK C H A NGING T E CHNOLOGY, GROW TH AND KE E P IN G IT R E AL... Words : TEJU ADELEYE
jing is just what I do,” says Duncan Beiny, the man known as DJ Yoda. And while it’s a simple statement, it’s a loaded one nevertheless. Beiny cut his teeth as a DJ at his university’s hip hop nights, and after graduating continued to make mix tapes, selling demos to small record stores before Antidote Records asked him to produce the mix tape which led to the release of the now infamous How To Cut And Paste, Vol. 1. It’s been 12 years since then, and the interceding years have seen endless nominations, awards and accolades. His pioneering technique garnered the respect of DJs and the hip hop community alike. But it’s the love and passion he has for DJing that keeps him in the game. “Even if I wasn’t getting paid for it and there was no-one in the crowd, I’d still be doing this,” Beiny tell us. “I never really thought, ‘I want to be a DJ as a profession’, or, ‘I want to still be a DJ in 20 years’ time’ or anything like that. I just did what I loved doing and I’m lucky enough to still be doing it today. As long as I still love it I’ll carry on doing it – whether it’s as a job or just as a hobby.” As his career has progressed, Beiny has cast his net wider for records and genres to experiment with, but the undertone of a hip hop beat is never far away, and it’s often the through thread connecting the melodies of choirs in China to classic hip hop anthems. It’s a laudable feat to universalise hip hop in this way – using it as the under pulse to connect seemingly disconnected genres. |
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The versatility that is a characteristic feature of his work has not always been present, however. By his own admission, at the start of his career there was only one style of music he cared about. “When I first started out I was pretty rap music obsessed,” he concedes. “I didn’t really care about any other music. As the years have gone on, my ears have opened up to all these other different styles of music. I might spend a whole year researching country music or 30’s music. As time goes on your mind becomes more open to different sounds.” Turntablists have, to an extent, also always been archivists, folklorists with huge libraries and an endless knowledge of music. It’s in their nature to play with different sounds. In the 21st century, as the world becomes smaller and more sounds than ever before are readily available the sheer scale of possibilities are endless. But it also means that DJ’s have to work harder to stay on top of their game. Yoda’s cut and paste technique is a succinct representation of how our generation engages with and digests sound (even if they are really, really old sounds). It’s this engagement with the past, along with being able to remain relevant to the present and future by incorpo-
rating technology into his performances that have helped him remain ahead of his game and partake in interesting projects and production work. “I tend to change the technology that I use every year,” Beiny explains. “I’m just about to get something new again which is going to change what I do in a live sense. The technology changes what I do as a performer – finding cool new buttons to press and knobs to turn. Its helps me keep things fresh and sounding different.” Having risen to acclaim as one of the world’s most respected DJs, Beiny seems content with the career stage he’s reached. Content enough, anyway, to not feel that attempting to break into the mainstream would benefit him, his music or his career on the whole. “With what I do, releasing a single just to try and get mainstream chart success wouldn’t make any sense,” he offers. “It would probably be more detrimental for me to do that than helpful. If I suddenly came out with this pre-designed, fabricated pop record people would just think, ‘What’s happened to DJ Yoda?’ and probably start ignoring any future stuff I do, I’m much better off making stuff I think is cool.” With his track record, the future can only get brighter, and of course, louder.
Kate Temple
G ET S A NG RY E A CH MONTH W E FI ND OUT WH AT ' S M AKIN G KAT E T E M P LE AN G R Y . Words : KATE TEMPLE, Photography : JAY MCLAUGHLIN
hilst rammed into an overpacked tube train this morning (don’t get me started on that again) I noticed an advert for ‘the perfect Hollywood smile’. A course of teeth whitening and straightening at a vast expense to the yellow-toothed fool who buys into that kind of nonsense from a non-dentistry approved salon. Later that morning, while shaking my head in disbelief, I overheard a teenager yodeling at an acquaintance across the street ‘hey y’all’. What on earth was going on? Was it the apocalypse, I hear you ask. No, my friends, it wasn’t. It was central London on a standard Tuesday morning. But I’m sorry to tell you that the Britain we know and love has been swamped by a spreading infection. It was formerly known as Americanisation back in the 1990s. And now it’s called life. Oh, life, my old friend. What happened? When did Britain become so Americanised? With the introduction of Americanisms into our precious language and their so-called holidays now clogging up our calendar, is there anything truly British left anymore? Are we all striving for the American dream with our Hollywood smiles and yanky drawls? Or is this just a blip? A moment, like the reincarnation of Atomic Kitten last year? Now, please don’t misconstrue this public rant for an attack on America. I for one thoroughly enjoy an evening in ShakeShack, devouring half a cow smothered in cheese. And I have no doubt there is probably evidence of me in inappropriately torn stockings and backcombed hair with the pretense of celebrating Halloween, many, many moons ago. (Celebrating aka drinking myself into a stupor and throwing up on the pavement like every good British teen.)
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But do we really need this osmosis of America’s worst traits slowly drip feeding to our society? The youths will be inheriting enough bad news from us (apologies, kids. We used to have a national health service and a pretty decent pensions system but we got a little credit-card happy with the Visa and pissed it up the wall in the early 2000s.) Do we really need to add an Americanised society to our list of detrimental behaviors for the next generation to pick up? What happened to the pride Britain used to have? We were renowned for our individuality, our resourcefulness and our downright Britishness. And we certainly weren’t crying on TV, or speaking about our emotions in public. What happened to croquet tournaments and open garden Sundays? Who decided cucumber sandwiches were to be replaced by Sloppy Joes and ice-cream sodas? And our fair language, with beautiful words such as efflorescence and blandiloquent, were to be replaced with crude abbreviations and vile acronyms? (Although TGIF is something I scream quite often.) I admire and appreciate America for all it is, but when in England I expect the best of British and nothing less.
THE THREE BEST THINGS ABOUT BRITAIN TODAY • Our ruddy wonderful sense of humour. If it isn’t laced with an undertone of sarcasm, it isn’t British. • When it was over 30 degrees we were lobbying to be sent home from work. Now the winter’s drawing in, it’s the start of the winter moan. Can it be too cold to work? • A cuppa. A brew. A Rosey. A cha. Whatever you call it, we are defined by our love of all things tea (and we’re not ashamed to say it).
So in the best of British style, I am going to use my stiff upper lip to do absolutely nothing about this assimilation and quietly rant about it to anyone who’ll listen. (And I bet you’re thanking the lord I got through this rant without saying Keep Calm and Carry On.)
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Photography Claire Harrison www.claireharrisonphotography.com • Location 8 Bar, Bank www.eightclub.co.uk • Models Ellen @ Profile Models & Riley @ Select Model Management • Make up Lauren Baker www.LaurenBaker.co.uk • Styling Russsel Phillip Peek • Hair Dionne Smith using Ojon • Nails Pebbles Aikens @ Freelance the workspace
after hours
Keep lips regularly exfoliated and hydrated (see before) apply Lime Crime’s Centrifuschia boldly to the lips, tightly purse the lips and brush Cavu Blue Loose Colour Concentrate from the centre travelling to the edges of the lips. Brush a clear gloss like Aveda Crystal Mint Lip Shine. Keep hands soft by regularly applying Green People’s Help at Hand.
For a great collection of brights try Lime Crime’s Fantasy Palettes. Team with a striking set of glamourous lashes- St Tropez by www.posche-store.com. BEAUTY
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Prep your lips by exfoliating off dead or dry skin with www.mustborganic.com Orange Choc Lip Scrub. When choosing lip colours keep in mind your colourings especially the tone of your skin. Don’t be afraid to warm up winter skin with statement colours like Lime Crime’s Cosmo Pop Lipstick (available at www.cocktailcosmetics.co.uk) 46
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Get your skin Glowing by applying Dr Organic Coconut Radiance Elixir underneath Origins Plantscription SPF 15 Foundation. Keep lips well hydrated by regularly applying The Organic Pharmacy’s Lip and Eye Cream. Always apply bold tones like Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Queen with a good lip brush like Eco Tools Lip liner brush to create the perfect cupids bow (available at: www.cocktailcosmetics.co.uk).
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Use 2 statement colours on the eyes to really enhance your own eye tone, try Using Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics Pure Cosmetic Pigments in Rust and Magenta, Mixed to create a liquid eyeliner as before and create a feline, feminine flick (available at www.cocktailcosmetics.co.uk). 48 | BEAUTY
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Moving into winter the majority of us start experiencing dry, dehydrated skin. Safeguard your skin from the winter with a good serum like Pai Age Confidence Facial Oil Echium & Amaranth which delivers a super-charged dose of vitamins, nutrients and essential fatty acids to the skin to help optimise hydration and regeneration, whilst mini-mising inflammation and environ-mental stress. As an intensive weekly treatment apply Aveda Intensive Hydrating Masque for 5-10 minutes...Rehydrate during the day with Jane Iredale Pommist Hy-dration Spray which contains Pome-granate extract for an extra hit of powerful, protective antioxidants.
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T he Hit List
YOUTH MUD: CURE SEXY, GLAMGLOW £49.50
What every bright and beautiful beauty-bargain hunter will be desiring this autumn.
GlamGlow’s Youth Mud are donating 10% of their sales to Breast Cancer Awareness Month. So better skin and donating to a good cause — who needs more of a reason to splash the cash? www.marksandspencer.co.uk
ULTRA-REPAIRING MASK, PHYTO £22 The ultimate treatment for intense & instant repair for the most damaged hair. www.feelunique.com
TANNING MOUSSE, AMBERMIST £12
MUST H A VES
Prolong the summer with this ultra fast drying, long lasting and easy to apply tan. www.ambermist.com
Words : KATE TEMPLE
AUTUMN IS OFFICIALLY HERE – but don’t let the leaves on the ground stop you from trundling down to the high street and investing in the best between-seasons products. Right now your skin is adjusting from the summer sun to winter mode. While we would all like to hibernate through winter, it’s just not possible. So prepare yourself with these fabulous day and night creams, to keep your skin hydrated and supple.
BLEMISH CONTROL GEL MASK, GOOD THINGS £4.99 This specially formulated 3-in-1 blemish control gel mask will help banish those unslightly between-seasons spots. www.boots.com
BLACK LASH, SMOOCH £8.75 A bold black lash mascara for framing gorgeously glam eyes. www.smoochcosmetics.co.uk
Lashes Flutter those lashes like there’s no tomorrow – because you’re so, totally worth it.
BRUSH ON FALSE LASHES, MAGINFIBRE £17 Magnifibres Brush On False Lashes are natural fibres with an adhesive fibre coating, which sticks to your own lashes to create an instant lengthening effect. www.beautybay.com
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EYELUSH, SHOWING OUT AND MAGIC EYES, W7 COSMETICS £VARIOUS With a variety of brush sizes, this new cosmetics branch is great to throw in your handbag for those impromptu nights out after work. www.thecosmetichouse.co.uk
INTENSIVE HYALURONIC CREAM, INSTITUT ESTHEDERM PARIS £32.95
ENERC BOOSTER, KIKO £7.90
Perfect for soothing skin, Propolis actively eliminates the bacterial flora on the surface of this skin for a smooth, radiant finish. www.beautybay.com
TRIPLE YOUTH FIRMING SERUM, GAZELLI £75 This highly concentrated serum is based on a unique skin-firming formula that helps combat visible signs of ageing. www.urbanretreat.co.uk
A concentrated facial serum enriched with Vitamin C, an essential element for the proper synthesis of collagen that makes up and strengthens the skin. www.kikocosmetics.co.uk
Top Face Creams A beautiful face is the best accessory for any winter outfit, so prepare your visage with the best creams around — tried and tested by the Drafted beauty team. DAY SOLUTION CREAM, GREEN PEOPLE £13.45 FOR 50ML
ILLUMINO FACE OIL, COLBERT £100 An instantly soothing face oil that improves skin’s overall tone, texture and glow. www.spacenk.com
DRAGON’S BLOOD HYALURONIC NIGHT CREAM, RODIAL £58
A gorgeous day cream that moisturises and rebalances your skin with added SPF. (Because there’s still sun in the winter.) www.feelunique.com
This super-hydrating plumping moisturizer used by celebrities around the world. And now Drafted magazine recommends it too! www.selfridges.com
HEALGEL SET BETWEEN £32 - £48 EACH A moisturizing set of creams that can be used as a base for your make-up routine to pep up your skin-care routine. www.spacenk.com
A.G.E. INTERRUPTER, SKIN CEUTICALS £142 A cream for the more mature skins out there – promises to help reverse the signs of aging (and our +60s tester said it worked wonders…!) www.skinceuticals.com
PRO-INTENSE SUPER SYSTEM ELEMIS £155 A system designed to kickstart and re-energise the skin cells at the epidermal junction to reveal a more lifted, firmer and shaped facial contour to the cheeks and jowls. www.houseoffraser.co.uk
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MAle GrOOming SO WE’RE IN THE MIDST OF THE SPORTING SEASON — WITH FOOTBALL AND RUGBY DOMINATING OUR WORLDS. But whether you’re a burly rugby fan or an agile football aficionado you still need to look after your image, because, let’s face it, we could all do with a helping hand now and again.
FACIAL SCRUB,
Words : KATE TEMPLE
SRANROM £12 This stimulating men's spa range is blended from natural thai herbs and plants to benefit the look and feel of your skin. www.sranrom.co.uk
THICKEN UP SHAMPOO, V05 £2.99 Fancy a fuller barnet? This shampoo is fortified with caffeine to strengthen and thicken your hair. www.superdrug.co.uk
EYE GEL, REFINERY £25 A light restorative gel packed with aloe vera which helps to cool, reduce puffiness and refresh tired eyes. www.feelunique.com
SKIN SUPPLIES FOR MEN, CLINIQUE RANGE FROM £12 - £40 SUPER GROOMER, BABYLISS £39.99 For every grooming need you may have – five heads, including a nose and ear hair trimmer. www.boots.com
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Everyday essentials for any skin-type going – and totally reliable. (Our tester recommends the liquid face wash and M lotion.)
Tried& tested FOOTOPIA LONDON
he world of beauty can be a fickle place. We’re constantly buying products to cover-up or enhance the less-beautiful parts of our bodies. From concealer to hide those telltale bags to nail polish to disguise our worn-out toes; you name it, we buy into it in our droves. The word on the street is that the latest beauty hit in Chelsea is a pedicure with a side of podiatry. Well, I decided, what’s good enough for the ladies (and gents) in Chelsea is good enough for me and I proceeded to cross the river for a luxury pedicure at Footopia. Stepping off the bus I realised I’d made a fatal error with my absent minded choice in footwear. Wearing the most complex strappy sandals known to man, I felt a pang of stupidity and began to wonder how I would navigate my freshly painted toenails through the excessive straps. Mentally kicking myself, I paced quickly toward the entrance of Footopia. Met by a very friendly (and smartly dressed) beautician, I was taken downstairs to the treatment room. A light, airy room with four extremely comfy chairs, lined up in symmetrical harmony. Robyn, the well-groomed owner of the salon, met me with an eccentric enthusiasm for all things foot-related. Splitting her time between a chateaux in the south of France and the salon in the heart of Chelsea, she had an unparalleled desire to change the way we all think of our feet. I had booked myself in for a luxury pedicure, being slightly daunted by the thought of a ‘serious’ podiatrist appointment
T
Words : KATE TEMPLE
WE’VE BE E N R U N N IN G AR OU N D E N J OY IN G T H E S UM M E R SUNSH I N E F OR N E AR LY T H R E E M ON T H S N OW — B U T W H A T H APPEN S T O OU R F E E T WH E N WE ’ R E F LIP -F LOP P IN G A R O UN D TOWN? on my first visit. But I soon realised this was going to be a pedicure with a difference. Robyn took each of my feet in her hand and began inspecting them with serious vigor. Her knowledge impressed me, even if I was slightly baffled as to what she was doing at times. According to Robyn my feet were in tip-top condition — no dropped arches, no crooked toes and no ingrown nails. This is, apparently, uncommon for a female of ‘my age’. (Well, flattery does get you everywhere.) After the inspection a pedicure of epic proportions began. Everything one expects from a pedicure was included, and more. Exfoliation, soothing Jacuzzi massage, moistening oils and a nail shape ensued. But the difference, I would state, was probably the best foot massage I’ve ever experienced. It was as if every movement, every stretch and every pull was perfectly tailored for my weary feet. Where usually there would be awkward chat about where you’re off on your half term break or the joys of Christmas (cue sarcastic snigger), Robyn and I became embroiled in a fierce discussion about the perils of stilettos and today’s females who feel empowered by the four-inch foot killer. As my feet were soaking in a thick moisturizing cream chosen especially for my psoriasis -prone ankles, Robyn introduced me to her business partner, Batman. Okay, I’m kidding he’s the very well respected Podiatrist Dipesh Raja — but if these two did become vigilante superheroes fighting crimes against feet, they would conquer Britain before you could say ingrowing toenail. Dipesh has his own section of the salon, without a nail polish in sight. If you’re interested in how battered your feet are, or you have a complaint you need to speak to a specialist about, I would highly recommend the talented hands of Dipesh. As my perfectly shaped toenails dried in a colour I picked from their vast array, I convinced the youngest member of staff in the salon to help me guide my smoothed, preened and freshly-painted feet into my ridiculous sandals. If you’ve never played Kerplunk, you won’t
footopia Q & A
WHILE WE WERE IN FOOTOPIA, WE ACCOSTED DIPESH FOR A QUICK Q&A SESSION. READ ON TO DEEPEN YOUR KNOWLEDGE ON ALL-THINGS PODIATRY. HOW CAN A PODIATRIST HELP? A Podiatrist can give advice and treatment on all foot related problems such as thickened, discoloured or ingrown toenails as well as corns, callouses, cracked heels and verrucas. HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU GET YOUR FEET CHECKED BY A PODIATRIST? The frequency of appointments is governed by what the problem is but the average is every 2 months for most people who have problematic feet. THERE’S BEEN A LOT OF TALK IN THE PRESS RECENTLY ABOUT HIGH HEELS CAUSING FOOT DAMAGE, HOW TRUE IS THIS? Bunions are the most common problems but you could also get a tailor’s bunion where the small toe deviates towards the fourth and goes underneath it. You’re also at risk of corns, callouses, ingrowing toenails and depending on the height of the heel, you’re at risk of potentially damaging your ankles - like a sprain or a fracture. Phew, with all this talk of feet, I think we’re going to book ourselves back into Footopia to get a one-on-one with Dipesh! understand the difficulties we went through. But, after some cajoling, I was stood in my silly sandals with perfectly pedicured feet and a head full of new facts about foot care. Walking out of the salon, and in the days since my appointment, I’ve realised how important our feet are and how much I abuse my clodhoppers. So I’ve dared to book myself in for a dose of harsh truths with Dipesh. I’ll let you know how it goes…. BEAUTY
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this Blippe to pag ck out m he fro
c ideo a v h bandIPPAR eac5 FOR BNL S...
IO E PAG UCT SEE INSTR
new bands GET YOUR E AR S AR OU N D T H IS LOT ! Words : LIAM MCCREESH
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STRANGE NAMES
OLIVER WILDE
For the most part, Minneapolis duo Strange Names, aka Liam Benzi and Francis Jiminez, seem like a cheery couple. Whether it’s sunny, 60’s west-coast pop channelling The Beach Boys (‘Crazy on the Day’) or jaunty Talking Heads inspired grooves (‘Luxury Child’) there’s a lot to like. True to these influences Strange Names are clearly striving for greatness themselves with those big, instantly infectious melodies. Besides the obvious retro influences there are also hints of Animal Collective and Beach House on some of the more laid-back tracks (‘Strange Revelation’ and ‘Slow Drama’). Their-self titled EP is out now on Minor Times Records and it’s a remarkably accomplished collection of tracks demonstrating a nous for song-craft that sets them well apart from their peers.
It’s hard to talk about Oliver Wilde without resorting to the kind of pretentious metaphors usually reserved for bad 6th form poetry. Putting such concerns to one side it falls to us to tell you that Oliver Wilde’s debut album A Brief Introduction to Unnatural Lightyears occupies a space where clarity begins to fade; a place on the horizon where forms lose shape and the details become compromised; that brief window between consciousnesses and sleep; the place you feel yourself relinquishing control of your thoughts (enough?) Okay, in other words Oliver Wilde’s debut LP is an intoxicating, psychedelic and heady take on the singer-songwriter genre. It’s folk music set to disorientating electronic whirring and dizzying loops. But, amongst the haze, his sentiments and his delicately crafted melodies never fail to penetrate the calamitous background din of computer noise. A metaphor for 21st century living perhaps? (Okay, I’ll stop now).
GLASS GANG
GAMBLES
Earlier this year, the return of one of the most influential guitar bands of all time, My Bloody Valentine, following a 20 year hiatus, put many of their impersonators in the shade. For their numerous copyists it must have felt like being caught in the boss’s office with your feet up. Luckily, there are three guys from Brooklyn, collectively called Glass Gang that seem relatively unperturbed by recent developments, pilfering as they see fit from MBV’s sonic legacy. In what turns out to be a surprisingly rewarding experiment, Glass Gang set those vast washes of guitar noise against gauche hip-hop and R&B beats. The result: boom-bap percussion, woozy guitars swaying unsteadily in and out of the mix and breathy vocals that come and go with disaffected insouciance.
There’s something of the young Bob Dylan about Gambles, aka New Yorker Matthew Siskin. Not just physically, although with that tussled nest of hair, diminutive stature and long overcoat the likeness is uncanny. It’s more that Siskin belongs to a category of artists that has all but disappeared these days. A troubadour and a lyricist very much in the mould of Dylan or Cohen, Gambles’ songs are direct, unflinching and laid bare. His recordings are entirely without embellishment and it makes for an incredibly intimate listening experience. With just a voice and a guitar there really is no hiding, and frankly, there’s something that’s still very noble about that. File alongside: Bright Eyes, Willy Mason and Villagers. Far From Your Arms EP is out now.
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SKI LODGE Despite the allusions to winter, singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Andrew Marr makes summery guitar-pop in the vein of Real Estate and Vampire Weekend. However, on closer inspection the ostensibly upbeat tunes belie a not-so-sunny disposition. Marr’s lilting croon sometimes sounds like it could have been modelled on Morrissey’s and it’s used to unpackage some pretty dark subject matter (infidelity, loneliness, broken families). The band, now based in Brooklyn, has grown to include 3 additional members and Big Heart is the name of Ski Lodge’s debut LP. It’s out now and it’s fair to say that gloominess has never sounded so appealing.
dine out
DRAFTED’S FAVOU R IT E LON DON R E ST AU R AN T S... Edited by : KYLE GOODWIN
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YOU M A Y RE M E M B ER that we have previously raved about The Lady Ottoline – well now the couple behind one of our favourite London Gastro Pubs are back with a new venture, Smokehouse. The idea for the Smokehouse is simple: incredible, seasonal food from great suppliers, dished up alongside craft beers (they have 20 on tap), a combination of hand-pulled local ales and an exclusively European wine list from small family vineyards. As the name suggests, fish and meat for certain recipes are smoked in house, while the menu has a strong BBQ influence using a real wood and charcoal offset smoker, a bespoke robata grill and green eggs. Dishes on any given day might include lobster and spring onion frittata.
W H EN I T COM ES to knocking up a serious burger, brand new Marylebone restaurant Slabs doesn’t mess about. The familyrun eatery (and bar – the cocktails are pretty serious, too) is fast becoming a very popular choice amongst Londoners looking to fulfil their burger and steak needs. With its chic decor and stylish array of quirky lighting (bare bulbs suspended from thickly knotted ropes), you can see how much care and thought has gone into this place from the moment you walk in. And if burgers aren’t quite your thing there’s no need to convince your friends / date / work colleagues to go elsewhere – Slabs offers a tantalising array of seafood options including a lobster burger (which was the highlight of our week).
S ET A B OV E T H E energetic buzz of Camden’s Stables Market, Gilgamesh is best known amongst Londoners for both its elaborate decor and high-end pan-Asian cuisine. Sampling a variety of their signature dishes including crispy fried squid, duck salad, Chilean seabass and beef bulgogi, we couldn’t help feeling that having to pick just one would have been a highly pressured situaton. The menu is generally exotic, but it caters for a wide range of tastes and the food is beautifully prepared and served with the finer details of presentation thoroughly considered. Due to its size, Gilgamesh isn’t an overly intimate setting, but the restaurant also has a well known bar and club, perfect for some casual celeb spotting (if that’s the kind of thing you’re into). Gilgamesh is more than just a restaurant. It’s an experience.
63–69 Canonbury Road, N1 2DG Highbury & Islington • 02073 541 144 www.smokehouseislington.co.uk
19 New Cavendish Street, W1G 9TZ Regent’s Park • 02074 862 131 www.slabslondon.com
Stables Market, Chalk Farm Road, NW1 8AH Chalk Farm • 02074 284 922 www.gilgameshbar.com
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bars
OH , I T’S A DRI NK YOU ’ R E AF T E R ? T R Y T H E SE OU T ! Edited by : KYLE GOODWIN
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W I N N ER O F D RA F T ED’S ‘most colourful bar we’ve ever been to award’, (this doesn’t really exist by the way), Mayfair’s Retro Feasts stands out as one of London’s quirkiest and most eccentric spots to enjoy a few evening cocktails – and with Mardi Gras-themed nightclub Voodoo Vault located directly below, there are plenty of options if the night happens to get carried away. Head barman Tom Rayfield’s specially designed cocktail menu offers a little something for everyone – from the enticingly named Rhubarb & Custard to our personal favourite Smoke & Mirrors – we can pretty much guarantee your heads will be feeling as fuzzy as ours were the next morning.
T U C K ED AWA Y J U ST behind Marble Arch, Hunter 486 at The Arch Hotel boasts a beautiful bar, perfect for pre or post-dinner drinks. The classy interior is matched by a glittering variety of premium cocktails, including our favourites: the Ginger and Passionfruit Mojito and Jack Fashioned, made with cigar infused maple syrup (yeah, cigar infused – you read correctly). With an arty ambience, secluded circular leather booths veiled with floorto-ceiling silk voile drapes and soft furnishings such as camel cushions, this is a champagne bar that really does pull out the stops. So if you ever feel like spoiling yourselves (and we all deserve to be spoilt every now and then), we couldn’t recommend this place more highly.
W E’V E A LWA Y S WO N D ERED what that brightly coloured building directly opposite King’s Cross station was - as it turns out, it’s the Megaro hotel - and buried in its basement is one of London’s hottest new bars. There are two distinctive seating areas in the Megaro Bar - you can either choose the brighter front section with its ‘director style’ chairs (and pretend you’re Tim Burton), or cosy up in the back area with low stools and dimmed lights (where you can also pretend you’re Tim Burton). The bespoke, homemade cocktails are simply incredible – we think we’d tried them all by the end of the night (think being the key word - it was a heavy evening).
29 Old Burlington St, W1S 3AN Green Park or Piccadilly Circus 02074 945 660 • www.retrofeasts.com
50 Great Cumberland Place, W1H 7FD Marble Arch • 02077 240 486 www.thearchlondon.com
23-27 Euston Road, NW1 2SD King’s Cross • 02034 325 150 www.megarobar.co.uk
RETRO FEASTS
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day is rather extravagant, it is definitely worth it if it means you can keep your toes in the sand a bit longer. Sadly, we left the coast behind and sped off to Montpellier city centre where we checked into our hotel, Oceania. The hotel was extremely central – just a five minute walk from the main square The Palace De La Comédie – making it great for a short city break. We took a walk into the city centre, stopping for an apéritif in the Saint Roch area. Tucked inside what appears to be the Old City, Saint Roch is a metropolis of modern shops, bars and restaurants. Although traditional in architecture this is where the students and hip 30-somethings come to wine, dine and chat until the early hours. Taking an evening tour with a local W HE N I T HINK OF THE S OUTH OF FR A N C E , I IM AGIN E T H E guide – a perfect activity at that time as the C A N N E FIL M FE S TI VAL, SUPER YACH TS, DIAM ON DS AN D M OË T weather is much cooler – we headed through O N TA P – NO T A BAD I MAGE TO CONJ UR E U P , SU R E , B U T T H E the winding, narrow streets, learning more about the historical relevance of the area, R EG I ON O F T HE SOUTH OF FRANCE H AS SO M U CH M OR E . its charming architecture, and what is now Words : RIVKIE BAUM a bustling array of nightlife. The area has a fantastic art scene with lots of street artists daubing their style on the old architectural walls, fusing new with old. rafted spent four days in the The Arc de Triomphe was our next stop. beautiful region of Sud de France, While much smaller than the one in Paris, it not to be confused with the glitzy still gave a fantastic overview of the city as South of France. The area is a we climbed its old stone staircase to the top collection of regions that offers a far more (only available with an official city guide). authentic 'French' feel – with less people Having walked and toured for a couple of speaking English at every corner. We were hours we strolled to a wine bar for cheese concentrating on the Langdon District and and meat boards. Because the region is well flew to Montpellier Airport in the South of known for its vineyards it really is worth France, just a couple hours flight time from asking the local wine bar owners for recommLondon Gatwick. endations. Unlike London bars, life goes on Montpellier itself is an area with plenty late here and we were some of the early ones of historical beauty as well as a bustling to leave at 1am. shopping area, cafes and eclectic nightlife. We woke up the next morning and got Before we checked out the city there was ready for our trip to Abbaye de Valmagne, an time to appreciate the coastline, with lunch ancient Abbey and vineyard that has been in at Paillote Bambou. There are a host of tables the same family for several generations and on the sand overlooking the sea and further dates back to the 1800s. Still a functioning down, dozens of sun loungers with waiter winery, the site also has beautiful gardens, the service so you can carry on drinking and grand Abbey complete with original barrels, eating without having to take time away from a restaurant (Auberge de Frère Nonenque), your sunbathing obligations. The food and vineyards and wine tasting available on site. wine matched the unbeatable surroundings, We dabbled in the wine tasting, sampling although a 3 course meal in the middle of the several of the bottles produced by their
French living D
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vineyards – a fun treat and well worth doing (and you don't need to be a wine connoisseur to enjoy this activity). The onsite restaurant (Auberge de Frère Nonenque) is divine, and while there is indoor seating we recommend sitting on the covered terrace that overlooks the vineyards and gardens. Everything is prepared onsite with fresh, seasonal produce and vegetables from the Abbey's own garden. After a wander through the gardens it was time to bid farewell to the beautiful green surroundings. The Abbey is a must even if just for the view alone. That evening we went native and hopped on a tram to the city’s famous Domaine d'O – the open-air theatre. There are performances all year round from film and arts festivals, to live concerts, film screenings and lively discussions. The next day we headed to Sète, a coastal town with a canal that runs through to the sea, meaning that two sides of the main street are joined by bridges, giving a Venetian feel. We dropped our bags off at Grand Hotel,
VALMAGNE IS A MUST
a modern building but with beautiful architecture that was right on the main street, and headed straight for the 45 minute boat tour of the city, a great way to get a run down of what’s what. (There are translation cards for the tour in several languages – just don't forget to ask for them.) Every year, Sète plays host to The Worldwide Music Festival, a week long festival that starts in the morning on the beach before heading to the lighthouse for the evening event that goes on until 6am. There is plenty of fresh, good food on site as well as copious amounts of alcohol (it is a festival after all). The music, as the name suggests, is varied, from soul and pop singers to house and dance music. There is a huge Brit attendance especially from renowned clubbing cities
like Manchester. As the festival goes on until the sun is well and truly up, partygoers arrive as-andwhen, with people still rocking up at 2am. Food is served throughout the night so you can keep those energy levels going. This is a great idea for a long weekend away – get a tan, dance, drink and stay in a hotel (there are no camping facilities). I would definitely revisit Montpellier and Sète for a longer stay. The views are incredible, the atmosphere unpretentious and untouched, and it feels like going to an authentic French city as opposed to a tourist hotspot. And really, the food and drink alone is a good enough reason to pop over for a holiday.
EVEN IF JUST FOR THE VIEW ALONE, IT IS SO PEACEFUL AND TRANQUIL
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WATCH THIS SPACE
E A CH MO NTH W E FEATURE BRI TAI N ’ S M OST T ALE N T E D U P -AN D-COM IN G CR E AT IV E S . TH I S MONTH WE CH A T T O ILLU ST R AT OR R OR Y T A Y LOR ... Words : KYLE GOODWIN this ck blippe to che g a p rory’s out site IPPAR we5bFOR BNL S...
WHAT EXCITES YOU THE MOST ABOUT ILLUSTRATIONS? The idea made pretty. Does that makes sense? I love to see an illustration and be hit with the ideas involved in its creation and the idea it conveys to the audience. And then someone takes those ideas and creates something beautiful? Awesome.
IO E PAG UCT SEE INSTR
WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO GET INTO THE INDUSTRY? The groupies! Ha, fail! No, I guess I was sick of drudgery and wanted to do something that challenged me, y’know? Life as an illustrator is always varied, forever throwing up new obstacles to overcome and odd things to get your head around. Never a dull day!
Bottom left Promotional poster for independent British horror movie set in a fat camp Below Illustration for an article about one night stands for Hound Magazine
WHAT’S YOUR PERSONAL FAVOURITE MEDIUM FOR ILLUSTRATIONS? Tough one. I like to work with lots of different mediums, I think it gives you versatility and keeps you pushing yourself, creatively. Most of my stuff ends up in a computer though for a final cleaning. I’m messy. WHAT WERE YOUR FIRST FEW YEARS IN THE INDUSTRY LIKE? Exciting, tough and confusing. I took as many creative jobs as I could, mostly for little money if any. Gradually the jobs became bigger and I was able to shift over to doing freelance illustration full time. I had to feel my way through getting established. It’s been a pretty crazy ride. HOW CRUCIAL DO YOU FEEL FORMAL TRAINING IS WHEN TRYING TO BREAK INTO THE INDUSTRY? I think the major benefit of study is dedicating a chunk of time to your art, learning lots of techniques and sharing ideas around a building full of creative people. You don’t need a degree to break into the industry at all but I believe it really helps your creative ability.
DIETING IS MURDER A NEW HORROR FILM FROM THE AWARD WINNING PRODUCERS OF “COMMUNITY”
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE PART OF BEING AN ILLUSTRATOR? That I get paid to draw things! I still can’t believe it, really. I keep feeling like a naughty child about to get rumbled! I love the feeling that comes with drawing things, closeting myself away and losing myself in an image. Constantly striving for improvement and gradually improving all the time. It feels great to be making a living out of doing something I love. Also, on a more basic level; just creating stuff. Best. Feeling. Ever. WHAT IS YOUR LEAST FAVOURITE PART OF BEING AN ILLUSTRATOR? Well sometimes it sucks working on your own for long periods of time. I don’t have a shared studio space so I can find myself pretty starved for company if I have a lot of work on. Luckily I can rely on my amazing friends and flatmates for keeping me sane and bringing me cups of tea! Well... at least bringing me tea. WHAT’S THE BEST PIECE OF ADVICE YOU’VE BEEN GIVEN? I once saw an interview with a comedian who said something along the lines of ,“Don’t try to make other people laugh. Make yourself laugh and eventually someone will laugh with you.”
RORYTAYLOR.COM
This really stuck with me. I think it’s influenced a lot of the sense of humour in my work. TALK US THROUGH THE CONDITIONS YOU WORK UNDER? Well, let’s see. I have two desks, one with my computer stuff on it, the other’s constantly covered with a mess of art supplies and paper. Having everything ready to access with spontaneity is important to me so I can get ideas down quickly and switch between physical work and digital. I always work to music, I find it focuses me and gives me energy when I’m flagging. Also tea is important. Lots of tea. www.rorytaylor.com FEATURE
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SECTIOn | 1
YEAR TO GO
Left Alan Hansen at Gleneagles Hotel Below Ryder Cup ambassadors Bottom Tom Watson and Paul McGinley
TO CELEBRATE EXAC T LY ON E Y E AR T O GO BEFORE 2014’S RYDER CU P T E E S OF F , DR AF T E D JOI NED A H OST OF STAR S AT GLE N E AGLE S HOTEL I N SCOTLAND TO P AR T AKE IN T H E P R E T OURNAMENT FESTI VI TI E S...
t was a crisp, surprisingly sunny morning in Edinburgh. Bagpipes wailed through the September air as the world’s media gathered, huddled and mingling, waiting to board the Ryder Cup steam train to Gleneagles for the Year To Go celebrations. In exactly a year, the European and American captains, Paul McGinley and Tom Watson, will be watching their respective teams tee off; kick starting what we all hope will be another Ryder Cup tournament as thrilling, dramatic and tense as those in years gone by. The journey to Gleneagles was roughly an hour from Waverly station, with the two captains being frantically ushered up and down the train speaking to different members of the media. Drafted were sat next to exLiverpool footballer and long-serving Match Of The Day pundit Alan Hansen, here as one of five Ryder Cup ambassadors along with James Nesbitt, Ruud Gullit, Jodie Kidd and Marvin from JLS. As a keen golfer himself, Hansen has been following the Ryder Cup closely for years. And it didn’t take long for the conversation to turn to golf. “The Americans just used to turn up, win, and shake hands,” he started. “But that’s no longer the case. It’s
I
definitely more intense now than it’s ever been. The Americans are suddenly taking notice that they keep on getting beaten and they want to do something about it. It’s great. The rivalry is always in very good spirit.” The Ryder Cup is about more than just golf. Similar to the World Cup, it has become somewhat of a cultural event, with people who don’t generally follow the sport becoming engrossed in the nail-biting action. For European captain Paul McGinley, the tournament holds fond memories. Having
EVEN IF YOU
DON ’T WATCH
GOLF, I THINK THE
HIGH ADRENALINE AND FAST PACE OF
THE RYDER CUP IS
WHAT MAKES IT SO INTERESTING. – PAUL McGINLEY played three Ryder Cups, vice-captained twice, and won all five, it’s not surprising there’s a quiet confidence surrounding the European camp. “The Ryder Cup has been very kind to me over the years in terms of success,” McGinley reminisced. “It’s a tournament full of exposure, interest and excitement. Every time we have a Ryder Cup we think, ‘Wow, it can’t get much better than that.’, and we go to the next one and it’s actually better. Hopefully we can continue that in Scotland next year.”
Words : KYLE GOODWIN
With golf being a predominantly individualistic sport, the Ryder Cups offers another dimension to the skill and technical ability required to succeed in the game. Not only do the players have to play well for themselves, they also have to perform for their teammates, their captain, their nation and the countless fans watching across the world, adding significant pressure and intensity to the occasion. “Even if you don’t understand golf or watch golf,” McGinley continued, “I think the high adrenaline, fast pace of the Ryder Cup – where you’re switching from one match to another – is what makes it so interesting. The fact that it’s a team competition plays a big factor, too, as well as the fact that it’s against the United States. With all of those things going into the equation, you can sit down to watch it and all of a sudden it’s four hours later.” Like any major sporting event the atmosphere at Gleneagles next year will be electric as golf fans from all corners of the globe turn up to cheer on their nations. The Americans, however, will feel like they have something to prove. Having won only four of the fourteen Ryder Cup tournaments since 1985, and particularly after last year’s finale, where the Americans lead 13½ - 9½ needing only one point out of five matches to clinch it – only to be pegged back to watch the Europeans claim victory by a single point. “There’s no doubt it’s extremely competitive,” McGinley stated. “But it’s also important that we keep that element of electricity between the two teams and that element of passion. Both teams clearly had it in Medinah. It’s not something we have to work on, to be honest. It’s something that’s naturally there. When you put on the Ryder Cup jersey, you’re in a different place and you’re ready to go. As a golfer you feel very privileged to be in that position.” LIFESTYLE
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work experience
IN C A SE T HE WHOL E WRI T ING T HING DOESN ’ T WORK OU T, OUR DEPU T Y EDI TOR K YL E IS GOING TO SPEND E ACH MON T H T RYING TO FIND A B ACK- UP C A REER . T HIS MON T H HE T RIES HIS H A ND AT BEING AN INTERN ATION AL RUGBY PL AYER... Words : KYLE GOODWIN Photography : PAUL FRANCIS
last week. This was an insight into what these guys endure as they prepare for an occasion like the rugby World Cup, happening at the moment. England’s head coach and ex-professional Steve McNamara was leading the session. “So you’re going to be training with us today?” he said with a worryingly mischievous smile. “Yeah bring it on, Steve,” I replied, trying to sound vaguely confident. I was joined by Sky Sports’ James Pearson, who somehow got roped into taking part in the session whilst innocently trying to interview some of the England players. Apparently, not having any suitable kit with you is no excuse when you’re surrounded by the national rugby team. Neither of us were feeling particularly confident that anything good was about to happen. But, nevertheless, we got changed into our sports gear and sullenly entered the gym, ready to experience what it’s like to be an England rugby player for the first time. Now, I’m no fitness freak. I may have lowered the amount of sugar I take in my coffee recently, but when it comes to a sweaty work out, I think the word inexperienced is probably best suited to the situation. This session, as I’m sure you can imagine, was intense. Not only was it intense, it was nonstop; quickly alternating between different forms of painstaking exercises created to test some of the fittest men on the planet. We went from one thing to the next, over and over again, with McNamara taking no mercy on us. As the England team casually breezed through each routine, barely flustered by it all, we puffed and panted through each stage – hardly being able to breathe at points but still battling on like absolute champions. Due to the high altitude England’s players will be adjusting to at their pre-World Cup holding camp in South Africa, they were training with hypoxic masks – lowering their oxygen levels and helping them acclimatise to the conditions ahead. However, McNamara took pity on us and we were excused from wearing one in fear that we might potentially die. Still, it wasn’t easy and our poor bodies
were definitely not pleased with our recent life choices. The session ended with James and I sprawled out on the floor, suffering and in utter pain, with James having to pop outside to be sick. It was certainly an interesting experience.
OUR POOR
BODIES WERE
hen Gillette invited me up to Leeds to spend a day training with the England rugby team two things immediately went through my head: How can I get out of this without sounding like a pussy? And, do I really care about this Work Experience feature enough to potentially break any bones for it? After all, the press generally have a pretty poor reputation amongst sports stars. For years rumours have been spun, quotes have been misinterpreted, and hype has been created out of nothing to generate headlines (what some sportsmen would give to be out on a field with one of these people, given full permission to take out any pent up grievances in the name of journalism). It was a scary thought. Luckily, though, we’re not one of those publications. So I thought, ‘Hey, whatever! If I end up in a Yorkshire hospital bed at least it’ll make a good read’. I’d never played rugby in my life. And, thankfully for my bones, I wasn’t about to, either. The day was based around the arduous training / fitness routine the England national players go through in the build up to international matches. I wasn’t complaining, (at first, anyway), as it swiftly quelled the terrifying image of 10 burly men charging at me that had been steadily building over the
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DEFINITELY NOT
The dedication and commitment that’s required to succeed at this level of professional sport is immense, and I take my imaginary hat off to anyone who can make it this far. But sitting here now, feeling like an 80-year-old man, fully braced to pathetically hobble around London for the next week-or-so, I think I can safely say that international rugby probably isn’t for me.
PLEASED WITH OUR RECENT
LIFE CHOICES
Verdict: fired Gillette has announced its partnership with England’s Rugby League Team and is committed to increasing the number of quality Rugby League players through training and education of specialist children’s coaches.
Do you want Kyle to come try your job? Want some free labour in the name of journalism? Tweet us: @draftedmagazine
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