Bristol University’s Independent Student Newspaper Issue 246
•
Monday 6th February 2012
• www.epigram.org.uk
VCs urged to show restraint on pay
Money Pie Minister voucher in e2
• Nine Russell Group Vice-Chancellors recieved pay
increases last year • Bristol VC Eric Thomas takes below-inflation 0.5% rise Josephine McConville Head News Reporter Vice-chancellors from top universities across the country are earning more on average despite the squeeze on university budgets. Annual Financial Reports from 2010-11 have revealed that Bristol is amongst nine Russell Group universitieswhohavegivenvice-chancellorsapayrise. Of the thirteen annual reports analysed, the most highly paid was Oxford University’s Professor Andrew Hamilton, who received a pay packet of £424, 000, including salary and pension contributions. With a 7% rise compared with the previous year, the University of Birmingham’s Vice-Chancellor Professor Eastwood had the highest increase in his pay packet.
31
Members of staff at Bristol earn over £100,000 a year
Julia May
The University of Bristol’s most recent financial report from 2010/11 shows the Vice Chancellor received a pay rise of 0.5%, with his remuneration package increasing slightly from £313 000 in 2009/10 to £314 000 in 2010/11. Nevertheless, some have voiced concerns that Bristol’s Professor Eric Thomas should take a cut, following the examples of Liverpool University’s Sir Howard Newby and University College London’s Professor Malcolm Grant, who both took a reduced pay packet. In the report, the University also cited the salaries of other highest paid members of staff, revealing 31 members of staff receive a remuneration package of over £100,000. This includes the Deputy Vice Chancellor, whose salary in 2011 stood at around £165,000.
Dilys Potter, a 2nd year Maths student, told Epigram, ‘It seems unfair that the University is allowing students, particularly those from poorer backgrounds, to take the major blows from the cuts. There are other Universities who are reducing their Vice-Chancellor’s pay packages and not scrapping bursaries.’ Last year, Epigram revealed the University’s plans to axe the bursary scheme from 2012. The maximum 2015 bursary and scholarship spend will be around £643,000, a significantly lower figure than any other English Russell Group university. Denis Burn, Chair of Bristol University’s Council said, ‘Professor Thomas is one of the longest serving Vice-Chancellors in the UK, is President of Universities UK and represents the Higher Education sector in many national and global forums - all of which bring direct benefit to his role as Vice-Chancellor of the University. ‘It should also be noted that the ViceChancellor made a significant personal donation to the University’s alumni fund.’ Usman Ali, the National Union of Students’ vice-president for higher education, said students struggling to meet the basic costs of studying and facing record youth unemployment would find the prospect of ‘university fat cats lining their pockets even further utterly sickening’. In 2010-11, around £215m was shaved off teaching budgets and £142m cut from Capital Projects, such as new buildings. University lecturers have also faced a pay cut. Sally Hunt, general secretary of UCU, the lecturers’ trade union, urged the government to extend its crackdown on excessive executive pay to universities, particularly due to the seven percent real-terms pay cut for lecturers since 2009. Meanwhile heads of elite universities were awarded an average pay rise of £9,700 last year. ‘It is vital that we ensure there is proper scrutiny of vice-chancellors’ pay and pension provision if we are to avoid suspicion of one law for those at the top and another for the rest.’ she said.
Coriolanus
Holiday romance
Fiennes shines in his directorial debut
“Cock-block to your heart’s content. It’s your holiday too”
Film & TV 27
e2 Travel
Epigram
06.02.2012
News
Editor: Alice Young
Deputy Editor: Jenny Awford
Deputy Editor: Abigail Van-West
news@epigram.org.uk
jawford@epigram.org.uk
avanwest@epigram.org.uk
Inside Epigram Features 11 Abandoned Bristol After the demolition of the Old Children’s Hospital, we look at the city’s derelict spaces
Comment 15 Beating the blues Amina Makele addresses the silent issue of student depression
Letters and Editorial 16 Unibad
The ‘lad culture’ within British universities is not just harmless banter - it’s damaging
Possibility of Bristol Mayor as referendum date is set Jenny Awford Deputy News Editor A parliamentary committee has confirmed the date for a referendum to be held on May 3rd to allow Bristol residents to vote for or against an elected mayor. They have also agreed the wording of the question, the answer to which could shape the city’s political future. The ballot paper will ask, ‘How would you like Bristol to be run?’ The options will be either to continue with a leader who is an elected councillor voted by other elected councilors; or change to a mayor who is elected by Bristol voters. If Bristol votes yes to a mayor, campaigning will begin and the mayor will be elected in November.
Local Government Minister Andrew Stunell said, ‘This referendum is about letting local people decide.’ He believes that adopting a mayor will drive economic growth, citing the examples of London and Barcelona. The forthcoming referendum has sparked a debate over the impact that an elected mayor could have on Bristol. Business Secretary, Vince Cable, has admitted that he is ‘not a fan’ of the policy. Dr Cable said that the mayoral vote was ‘a separate agenda’ from the coalitions plans to hand power to cities, implying that in his view, a yes vote was not central to the city’s prospects’. Two local Conservative MPs, Bristol North West’s Charlotte Leslie and Kingswood’s Chris Skidmore, joined the Delegated Legislation Committee
for the mayoral debate at Westminster. Skidmore said that an elected mayor would be a ‘shot in the arm’ for Bristol. Leslie aired her concerns on the ‘broken’ state of Bristol politics, pinpointing the frequency of council elections as a problem in long term decision-making. Leslie commented that: ‘An elected mayor would be accountable, visible and would have the opportunity to find and instigate solutions to improve the city’s politics.’ The Liberal Democrat MP for Bristol West, Stephen Williams, has shown an interest in standing for the position of Bristol Mayor. Williams has not given a certain answer because the powers given to a mayor have not yet been set out and the vote is still to come. Williams has commented
that: ‘It is a job that I would not rule out standing for. If a directly-elected mayor of Bristol is created, any politician who has strong views about how the city should develop and cares about Bristol ought to think seriously whether they should make a contribution to the running of the city in that way.’ He continued saying: ‘I am not ruling it out, and am very seriously thinking it through.’ A consultation into the prospective powers that a mayor should have has resulted in just 19 responses from members of the public throughout 12 cities, including Bristol. The rest of the 59 replies were made up from councils and chambers of commerce. In response, the government has decided to press ahead with its ‘bespoke’ approach to awarding different powers to each city.
Flickr: dichohecho
20 Culture 20 Ditching digital
Music
Flickr: James F Clay Liberal Democrats
Despite Kodak filing for bankruptcy, Bristol students showcase their film photography Williams has shown an interest in running for Bristol Mayor
25 Born to flop? The question of authenticity with the latest pouty pop sensation, Lana Del Rey
25 Science 30 Chocolate chemistry It’s Valentine’s Day next week, so we look at the science behind our favourite foodstuff
Meetings
Editorial team Editor Editor Tom Flynn editor@epigram.org.uk editor@epigram.org.uk Deputy Editors Deputy Editors Jon Bauckham Jon Bauckham jon@epigram.org.uk jon@epigram.org.uk Hannah Stubbs hannah@epigram.org.uk Hannah Stubbs e2 Editor hannah@epigram.org.uk Matthew McCrory e2 Editor e2@epigram.org.uk Matthew McCrory News Editor e2@epigram.org.uk Alice Young news@epigram.org.uk Deputy News Editors News Editor Alice Young Abigail Van-West news@epigram.org.uk
avanwest@epigram.org.uk
Deputy News Editors Jenny Awford Jenny Awford jawford@epigram.org.uk jawford@epigram.org.uk
Features Editor Abigail Van-West Tristan Martin avanwest@epigram.org.uk features@epigram.org.uk
News Online Editor Amina Makele Deputy Features Editor newsonline@epigram.org.uk
Sport Online Editors Features Editor Deputy Music Editor Science Editor Tom Mordey Tristan Martin Comment Editor Pippa Shawley features@epigram.org.uk Patrick Baker Nick Cork tmordey@epigram.org.uk deputymusic@epigram.org.uk
comment@epigram.org.uk
Deputy Features Editor Andrew White Letters Editor deputyfeatures@epigram.org.uk Emma Corfield
science@epigram.org.uk Paddy Von Behr
Music Online Editor pvonbehr@epigram.org.uk David Biddle Deputy Science Editor musiconline@epigram.org.uk Emma Sackville Puzzles Editor letters@epigram.org.uk deputyscience@epigram.org Film & TV Editor Lily Buckmaster Comment Editor Will Ellis Patrick Baker Culture Editor Sport Editor filmandtv@epigram.org.uk Head Sub Editor comment@epigram.org.uk Calum Sherwood Tom Burrows Emma Corfield culture@epigram.org.uk sport@epigram.org.uk Deputy Film & TV Editor Deputy Comment Editor Anthony Adeane Sub Editors Hugh Davies Deputy Culture Editor Deputy Sport Editor deputyfilmandtv@epigram.org.uk Jennifer Hooton deputycomment@epigram.org.uk Zoe Hutton David Stone Rachel Hosie deputyculture@epigram.org.uk deputysport@epigram.org.uk Science Editor Harriet Layhe Letters Editor Nick Cork Rosemary Wagg Emma CorfieldMusic Editor Puzzles Editor science@epigram.org.uk letters@epigram.org.uk Nathan Comer Lily Buckmaster Photography Editor music@epigram.org.uk Deputy Science EditorHead Sub Marek Allen Culture Editor Editor Emma Sackville Zoe Hutton Deputy Music Editor Emma Corfield deputyscience@epigram.org Illustrator culture@epigram.org.uk Pippa Shawley Sophie Sladen Sub Editors deputymusic@epigram.org.uk Sport Editor Deputy Culture Editor Harriet Layhe, Web Designer Hannah Mae Collins FIlm & TV Editor Tom Burrows Kate Moreton, Rosemary Wagg sport@epigram.org.uk Maciej Kumorek deputyculture@epigram.org.uk Will Ellis
Illustrator
filmandtv@epigram.org.uk Deputy Sport Editor Sophie Sladen Music Editor Stone Nathan ComerDeputy Film & TVDavid Editor Web Designer music@epigram.org.uk Anthony Adeane deputysport@epigram.org.uk
Andrew White deputyfeatures@epigram.org.uk
deputyfilmandtv@epigram.org.uk
Rob Mackenzie
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For Lifestyle, What’s On, Fashion, Travel and Money see e2, page 2 Epigram is the independent student newspaper of the University of Bristol. We are supported but not financed by the University of Bristol Students’ Union; however the views expressed are not theirs. The design, text and photographs are copyright of Epigram or its individual contributors and may not be reproduced without permission.
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Epigram
06.02.2012
3
National Front stickers found at halls Rob Grant News Reporter
Flickr: Geoff_B
Stickers apparently promoting a far right organisation have been discovered on the gates of student accommodation in Bristol. The stickers were stuck to the gates of Northwell House, on Gloucester Road, reading ‘National Front’ followed by the phrase ‘Immigrants – get them out’. University of Bristol Students’ Union President Gus Baker spotted the stickers at the entrance to the premises, near Gloucester Road on Friday afternoon, and took them down. In an email to the University, Mr Baker said he was concerned that the stickers may have been placed at the hall due to its higher population of international students. ‘I was shocked and appalled to find the stickers on a student hall. ‘The National Front’s politics of hate has no place at Bristol and attempts to intimidate our students will fail,’ he said.
University Police Officer Nick Boyce said he had contacted the Warden of Northwell House about the incident. ‘These things appear around the University from time to time. The Police and University take these incidents seriously and they are logged with Police Intelligence Unit to collate with any similar incidents of this type’ he said. ‘We don’t get many of these incidents at the University, it has been a very long time since something like this last occurred. ‘University Security and I will be monitoring the situation and take any action necessary,’ he added. Northwell House is home to 123 residents, with 30 of them sharing double rooms. It has accomodated University of Bristol students for 14 years. It is one of the university’s student houses, which cater for students who don’t recieve accomodation in larger halls., Dan Hewer, a Senior Resident at Northwell House, said he and his colleagues were treating the discovery as a
The stickers were found at Northwell House, just off the busy Gloucester Road
serious matter and that they would continue to be vigilant. ‘We will ensure that the residents of Northwell House do not feel intimidated by these views, which only represent a small minority of
the local community,’ he said. The National Front remains a small extreme right political party which has been overshadowed in recent years by the English Defence League and the British National Party.
According to their website, they are committed to stopping ‘all non-white immigration’ and instituting a policy of ‘phased and humane repatriation’. They fielded seventeen candidates in the 2010 general
election, but none of those contested any seats in Bristol. They won no seats, and their best vote share was just under five per cent in Rochdale, in the North West.
Health service records 175% UBU motions for increase in eating disorders AGM released Alice Young News Editor
Emily Gotta News Reporter Research from professionals at the Student Health Service has revealed that eating disorders among female students in Bristol and Bath are on the rise. Dr. Dominique Thompson, the director of services at the University of Bristol Students’ Health Service and GP in Bristol, has begun a new treatment plan across Bristol and Bath to care for patients battling with anorexia and bulimia. Recent studies estimate that of the general population of women, 5% struggle with anorexia and 1% battle with bulimia.
Flickr: rbrwr
Hampton House, where the Student Health centre programme has been implemented
The article explained that for an average practice with 10,000 patients, 5,000 of them being women, 25 patients would struggle with anorexia and 50 with bulimia. In a medical journal, Dr. Thompson explained, ‘In 2008, our practice team was becoming increasingly conscious of the ever-rising numbers of students with an eating disorder presenting at our university health service’. Thompson went on to describe the alarming increase in eating disorder rates in 2011-12, ‘today we have 153 (143 female) out of a total of 14,000 patients, a 175% increase in six years.’ While the causes behind the
staggering increase were not discussed, Thompson went on to explain the new treatment method offered to patients to reduce waiting time and increase positive outcomes. In 2008 the waiting time to see a specialist could be months, which worsened the prognosis for patients left untreated. Thompson and her team decided to attempt a pilot program to allow patients to seek help in a primary care setting through a qualified therapist. After receiving funding, the team was able to provide a 15-month pilot program to test the new service. In the end, 94 patients were referred to the treatment and the results were largely positive.
The primary care setting drastically reduced patient waiting time, and Thompson’s team found that the NHS saved money under this new approach by avoiding expensive referrals to secondary care. Under the pilot program, 91 of the 94 patients were offered service, and 77 of the patients were offered an appointment within 28 days of seeing their GP. Patients under the pilot also received a total of 329 hours of face-to-face time with health professionals. The journal noted that ‘all patients who completed an active change treatment experienced positive benefits.’ The entire city of Bristol has now incorporated the new approach.
Motions have been released in preparation for the University of Bristol Students’ Union Annual General Meeting (AGM) which takes place this Thursday 9th February. A total of 29 motions have been submitted, of which as many as possible will be debated at the AGM this week. After a short discussion and debate, the AGM will vote on the motions and decide whether the motion becomes UBU policy or not. A priority ballot has been set up on the UBU website to decide the order in which the motions will be debated. The motions vary widely in topic. One of the more controversial motions, proposed by Alexander Chau, is a proposal to repeal a motion voted through in the October Student Conference, namely the UBU pro-choice stance on abortion. This motion created an intense debate at Student Conference, with members of the ‘Bristol Students for Life’ society debating with the proposer of the motion, UBU Vice-President for Welfare and Equality, Sophie Bennett. Some motions also focus
on the issue of widening participation, with Adam Ludlow, Chris Ruff and Josephine Suherman all proposing motions aiming to change UBU policy on participation of poorer students. More eclectic motions include a proposal to rename the Wills Memorial Building after World War 1 veteran Harry Patch, a proposal to make Swaziland NUS President Maxwell Dlamini Honorary UBU President, and a proposal to force UBU sabbatical officers to wear suits to work. Various proposals capture the anger of students over certain issues. Theofano Mavrovounioti’s proposal to speed up computers in the Arts and Social Sciences Library follows student concerns over spending nearly ten minutes waiting for computers to boot. Both Rosemary Drummond and Hamish Hay have proposed motions relating to sports facilities, which they argue discriminate against students wanting to use a single facility, such as the swimming pool. Voting for the priority of the motions, and a full list of all motions, can be found at ubu.org.uk/voice. Voting on the actual motions will take place on Thursday 9th February, from 2pm in the Anson Rooms, and free food will be provided.
Epigram
06.02.2012
4
Labour’s rising stars visit university Jon Bauckham Deputy Editor
Hannah Pollak
(L-R) Chuka Umunna, Calum Sherwood, Hannah Pollak & Shabana Mahmood
DIY solar panelling training opportunity Jessica Wingrad News Reporter
£3,500 per kW. The DEE website say ‘the workshops help other households access solar panels at less than half the price of the cheapest commercial panel, helping to address the growing social inequality in access to affordable clean power’. Although DEE are supportive of solar panels they have a strong emphasis on reducing demand for energy in general which includes non-renewable sources of power such as fossil fuels. By educating people in the use of solar panels they hope to decrease people’s dependence on more prevalent forms of energy which are rising in price. The people at Demand Energy Efficiency have said that, ‘the combined effect of making something and using it within your home means a far greater understanding and respect of energy is achieved, leading to reduced demand’. The deadline for applications to be one of the six students involved in the project is 5pm on Friday 3rd February. Apply to be involved at: http://www.ubu.org.uk /voice/ demandenergyequality/
networking site himself, Umunna said he had accepted Abbott’s subsequent apology and asked the audience to consider her efforts towards encouraging greater ethnic diversity in British politics. But when asked why the House of Commons looked so different to the streets of Britain today, Mahmood admitted there was still work to be done. ‘We have to get rid of that door, so it’s not even news when people like myself get elected. But aside from religion and race, we both want to see less careerist MPs, and people from a variety of professions entering politics.’ Although a tight schedule meant that some of those in attendance were left unable to ask questions, co-chair of Bristol Labour Students, Calum Sherwood, told Epigram he felt the event had been a success. ‘It was extremely well attended and it was good to give students the chance to challenge MPs and ask questions which were relevant to them. Labour is working hard towards reconnecting politicians with a student body let down by broken promises.’
‘Occupy Bristol’ group evicted from College Green
Flickr: Occupy watch
The University of Bristol Union is collaborating with Demand Energy Equality (DEE) to offer six student volunteers the chance to attend workshops that will teach them the skills required to build a DIY solar panelling system. Bristol PhD student, Dan Quiggin, set up DEE as a means of addressing energy inequality which affects low income households. By training people to build their own solar panels, as well as teaching them the skills required to maintain them, DEE hope to provide cheaper electricity to homes. A solar panel, or photovoltaic panel, is a packaged, connected assembly of solar cells. The solar panel can be used as a component of a larger photovoltaic system to generate and supply electricity in commercial and residential applications. Solar panels generate cheap, green electricity from sunlight. The solar photovoltaics capture the sun’s energy using photovoltaic cells. These cells
do not need direct sunlight to work, they can still generate electricity on a cloudy day. The cells convert the sunlight into electricity, which can be used to run household appliances and lighting. The six students who are chosen to attend the workshops will be taught free of charge by Quiggin himself. He will give the students the opportunity to build their own DIY solar panel system and will teach them how to pass the skills they learn on to other people and run their own workshops. DEE have commented online, ‘this approach is taken to encourage the workshop to spread as far and wide as quickly as possible’. Students who intend to apply for the scheme are encouraged to consider the audience to whom they would aim their own workshops since they will be holding their own community training session. DEE use recycled materials to build the solar panels which makes them more affordable. Solar panels are currently confined to more affluent communities due to the high price of purchase and installation which can be up to
Two of Labour’s youngest shadow ministers visited the University of Bristol last month to address students and answer questions on topics ranging from higher education to social networking. Stopping off at UWE earlier in the day, Chuka Umunna and Shabana Mahmood attended the Bristol Labour Students event at the Wills Memorial Building on Friday 20 January. Umunna was elected MP for Streatham in May 2010, becoming the first MP for the constituency to have grown up in the area. In the same election, Mahmood succeeded Clare Short to represent Birmingham Ladywood, and made history by becoming one of the first Muslim women to be elected to Parliament. In an opening address, Umunna, the Shadow Business Secretary, attacked the coalition government’s handling of youth unemployment and discussed Labour’s five-point plan for providing an immediate financial stimulus. Following party leader Ed
Miliband’s calls for responsible capitalism, he highlighted the importance of equipping future generations with ambition and the means necessary for continuing British innovation, arguing that scrapping Educational Maintenance Allowance was ‘not the way forward’. Similarly, Mahmood, who was appointed Shadow Universities Minister in November, spoke of prioritising students over bankers and hoped that Labour would be able to make steps towards implementing a ‘graduate tax-like system’ instead of raising tuition fees to counteract generational debt. The panel then responded to a series of questions, prompting discussions about ongoing plans for a new high-speed rail network and the Labour Party’s attitudes towards the Trident nuclear defence system. Both MPs also stepped in to defend Labour frontbencher Diane Abbott, who recently found herself at the centre of controversy for claiming on Twitter that ‘White people love playing “divide and rule”’. Admitting that he was still scared of using the social
The remaining ‘Occupy Bristol’ protesters at College Green have been formally evicted from their camp by Bristol City Council. A significant number had already left the site after a county court ruling that they should be made to go. The protesters, part of an international movement calling for a fairer society, had been camped on College Green since 15th October 2011.
Epigram
06.02.2012
5
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Epigram
06.02.2012
66
‘Safe-haven’ for sex-workers and their babies set to close due to lack of funds Katie Briefel News Reporter
kept their children in their care. One25 has not been able to secure funding to continue running Naomi House. The award-winning addiction treatment home costs £240,000 a year to run. Due to the unique nature of the project and the way existing Social Service funding systems are set up, One25 has experienced difficulties in securing ongoing Social Services funding for the families’ places. In addition, last year their government grants, The Victims Fund, worth £50,000 and Parenting Fund grant worth £187,050 came to an end. In February, their housing benefit was slashed. The mothers at Naomi House receive counselling to help them break free from drugs and prostitution, as well as overcome childhood trauma and domestic violence. Around 200 women are currently believed to be working in the sex industry in Bristol.
A childcare worker plays with a resident toddler in Naomi House’s creche
Disadvantaged students are helped into universities by summer-schools, says UOB
Bristol Robogals inspire girls to study engineering
Alex Bradbrook News Reporter
pjf@cpan
Robogals, an international student-led organisation that aims to increase the number of young women studying engineering, science and technology at university met in Bristol on Saturday 28th to Sunday 29th January for an international conference. In 2009, Robogals in Sydney set the world record for the largest robot dance in an attempt to encourage girls to study engineering (pictured above).
Charley Murrell
A mother and baby treatment home in Bristol for women leaving the sex industry is to close due to a lack of available funding. Naomi House was launched by the charity One25 in 2009 as a safe haven for ex-sexworkers with babies, to help them tackle addiction and support their parenting. A charity spokesperson said the decision did not reflect on the quality of the service provided by Naomi House. Gill Nowland, from One25 said, ‘We will be refocusing on our other services.’ However, Nowland believes that the loss of Naomi House is significant. She added, ‘This is a sad loss, especially considering all that this innovative project has achieved.
‘Naomi House has given 18 vulnerable mothers the help they desperately needed – a chance to transform their lives away from the streets and give their children a better start in life.’ ‘However, our commitment to helping Bristol’s vulnerable women to fulfil their potential is unchanged.’ Current residents at Naomi House will continue to be supported until the end of their treatment in February. There are only two other mother and baby homes in England and Wales for women with addictions and no other specifically for those wanting to escape sex-work. A former resident, Carla, described Naomi House as ‘a wonderful chance to have a life, my son and a future with all my children. No more misery – just the beginning.’ Two-thirds of women treated at the centre have overcome their drug problems and have
New research published by the University of Bristol has shown that summer schools, run by seven institutions, including Bristol, successfully boost attendees’ chances of receiving a place at a leading university. In order to be eligible for a summer school, students have to come from a low performing school and be entitled to receive the Educational Maintenance Allowance. It was found that amongst students with similar achievements and backgrounds, those who attended a Sutton Trust summer school at one of the seven venues had a 76% likelihood of getting into a leading university, compared to 55% for those who did not attend such a scheme. Additionally, 23% of summer school attendees were successful in progressing to one of the programme’s host institutions, compared to 13% of applicants who were not successful in getting a place. The Sutton Trust summer schools were founded in 1997 by Sir Peter Lampl, with the aim of increasing the
number of students from non-privileged backgrounds at leading universities. The scheme has since been a great success, receiving seven applications per place. Owing to the popularity, the scheme has now been expanded to include Bristol, Cambridge, Durham, Imperial, Nottingham, St Andrews and UCL. The report, published on the 18th January, shows that 99% of students at the 2008 and 2009 events had GCSE results of at least 5 A grades. Moreover, 91% of the attendants were the first in their family to potentially go to university. The summer schools have been praised for their content, which gives students a taster of the subjects they want to study. Students are also provided with additional seminars, which give guidance on financial matters and the application process. At the same time, students live in university halls of residence and receive a unique experience of being a student before actually embarking on a degree programme. Doug Jennings, Schools and Colleges Liaison Officer at the University of Bristol said, ‘It’s heartening to hear that [the summer schools] are having
such an impact and encouraging prospective students to apply to leading universities’, adding that the events always generate much positive feedback. The authors of the report, Dr Tony Hoare and Roseanna Mann, commented, ‘Our study provides strong empirical evidence that summer schools do work from the perspective of the host universities, the Sutton Trust, the students and society as a whole, which benefits from identifying something that kick-starts social mobility.’ It was also mentioned that the summer school programmes serve to encourage underprivileged groups, a section of society poorly represented at the elite universities, to apply to leading institutions, as well as giving attendees more confidence with their applications. Since their inception in 1997, 10,000 young people have attended the Sutton Trust summer schools, which the report describes as ‘the largest cross-university national outreach programme.’ Applications are now open until the 9th March for the 2012 intake of students hoping to attend the 12th event at the University of Bristol.
Epigram
06.02.2012
7
Yeates’ landlord accuses police of leak Abigail Van-West Deputy News Editor
Jefferies has changed his image, after being called ‘creepy’ in the national press
that the solicitor should be so intemperate and inaccurate in his comments made public. Surely one of the lessons that has been learnt from his client’s experience is to treat media commentary with caution.’ During his trial it was revealed that Tabak had implicated Jefferies by telephoning police and making
belfasttelegraph.co.uk
thesun.co.uk
Joanna Yeates’ former landlord, who was previously arrested on suspicion of her murder, has accused police of leaking information to journalists that led to a ‘character assassination’ in the media during the case. Jefferies claimed in a statement made by his solicitor that ‘information had been deliberately leaked’ after his arrest. He has called for an independent inquiry. Jefferies’ claims come after Daily Mirror editor, Richard Wallace claimed at the Leveson Inquiry into media standards that police had given off-therecord details on Jefferies to the national newspapers. Following the media coverage of Jefferies after his arrest, which referred to the landlord as ‘weird’, ‘lewd’, ‘creepy’ and a ‘loner’, Jefferies successfully sued the newspapers for libel. Jefferies later accepted an undisclosed payout from eight national newspapers,
including the Daily Mirror, over the defamatory claims. At the Leveson inquiry, Wallace apologised to Jefferies and claimed that his judgment was affected by leaks from the force. He added that police appeared confident that ‘he was their man.’ However, Colin Port, the Chief Constable of Avon and Somerset Police, has denied Wallace’s claims that the police were responsible for leaking information to the press. Port said, ‘We have conducted a thorough investigation into all of Mr Wallace’s assertions. ‘We have not found any substance to the suggestion of off-the-record background briefings by Avon and Somerset Police relating to Mr Jefferies. ‘Ryan Parry, the senior Mirror reporter, confirmed in his evidence to the inquiry yesterday [Tuesday 24th January] that he had not had any off-the-record briefings about Mr Jefferies.’ Port added that he feels Jefferies’ case should have taught his solicitor to be cautious of such public allegations. ‘I am extremely concerned
false allegations against him. Tabak was later convicted of Yeates’ murder and sentenced to a minimum of 20 years in jail. The statement from Jefferies’ lawyers added leaks by ‘as yet unidentified individuals’ were in ‘flagrant breach of their duty.’ ‘Our client strongly believes this to be the case, as there was information within the
public domain which was only known to those privy to the investigation material. ‘Our client is of the view that this information had been leaked and we share that view.’ Barry Hughes, from CPS South West, said, ‘There is no truth whatsoever in the serious allegations made against the CPS by the
solicitor acting for Mr Jefferies. ‘I am not aware of any evidence given to the Leveson inquiry to date that has suggested that any members of the CPS have leaked information to journalists. ‘I am disappointed that a firm of solicitors should make such a serious claim without referring the matter to the CPS directly.’
Bristol cheerleaders require £26,000 to compete at Disneyland Jessica Wingrad News Reporter
society has looked to other sponsors and their own efforts to get the money to send their teams to Paris. The popular nightclub Lizard Lounge has been enlisted to support their cause, and the money from them combined with socials which they have organised has raised £3,500. The Bristol Jets have three squads which consist of an AllGirl Cheer, Co-ed Cheer and Pom Dance, the team which supports the American Football games. This year the cheerleading squad has expanded their society to accommodate twice as many students joining. The number of male students has also increased from two to ten. The president of the society,
Members of the squad, pictured after a sponsered 6.5km run. Between the 77 members, they aim to run the distance to Paris
Rosie Brantingham said, ‘Cheerleading is really taking off in the UK and is very
close to being accepted by BUCS as a university sport.’ Although they still
Rosie Brantingham
The University of Bristol Cheerleading Society is hoping to raise £26,000 to compete in Disneyland Paris from 16th-19th March. Event organisers, Future Cheer and their partners Take Us 2 The Magic are organising a cheerleading competition to be hosted by Disneyland Paris, endorsed by the International All-Star Federation. University Cheerleading squads are invited to compete for medals, trophies and a first place banner by performing one routine per squad.
Following the success of the Bristol Cheerleading squads at regional and national competitions in the UK they have decided to send 80 students to Paris to compete, which will cost each person £200. The University of Bristol Students Union have awarded the cheerleading society £1,000 and the Alumni Foundation, which receives donations from past Bristol students, has awarded them £3,000. Emily Griffiths, a member of the cheerleading squad said, ‘We are hard at work and still looking for donations no matter how big or small to support our cause.’ As well as getting funding for the competition from the University, the Cheerleading
require a further £3,000, the cheerleading society is confident that they will succeed.
The south-west’s answer to Oktoberfest is introduced to Bristol Charlie Reed News Reporter Beer enthusiasts will be able to enjoy all the atmosphere, tradition and culture of Oktoberfest this May, without leaving the southwest, as Bristol hosts its first beer festival. Hosted by BeerfestUK Ltd, the event is taking place between May 3rd and 7th. Organisers hope to encourage crowds of up
to 5,000 people to the beer festival over the five days. In true Oktoberfest style, traditionally dressed mädchens will be serving steins of Fischer Helles and Erdinger Weissbrau along with bratwurst and pretzels to line the stomach. Entertainment includes a magician, DJ, and the Edelweiss Bavarian Show Band who will be playing traditional Beer Fest songs, promising plenty of audience participation. A photographer will be present to capture the German-
inspired event. The festival is being organised by businessman Philip Marsh. Marsh decided to create the event after deciding that a German Beer Fest was a shameful omission from the UK’s festival calendar. He believes its appeal is broad, expecting a diverse cross section of society, from students to families, work colleagues to close friends. Furthermore Marsh wants to make this a permanent annual diary fixture, not just for
Bristol, but across the nation and similar events are already
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The event will promote business in the area... All we now need is to see if Bristol folk know how to party!
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planned in Southampton, Reading and Cardiff. Crucially, the organisers have announced the local economic benefits of the event, in a time of economic uncertainty. Marsh claims, ‘The event will promote business in the area with over 50 temporary jobs being created at the venue. ‘We’ve also made a lot of strong relationships with other businessmen to spread the success of the event. ‘We are being supported by local businesses from
marquee suppliers, taxi firms to catering and refrigeration. ‘All we now need is to see if the Bristol folk know how to party!’ However there has already been criticism levelled at the high admission prices, with fears of this alienating some members of the community. The festival will take place in the amphitheatre, next to the Lloyds Banking Group offices at the Harbourside. Tickets are available to over 18s only, costing either £12 online or £16 on the door.
Epigram
06.02.2012
8
‘Meet your brain’ with Bristol psychologist
Bristol students celebrate the Year of the Dragon
Emily Gotta News Reporter
Professor Bruce Hood delivering the Royal Institution Christmas lecture
object representation, spatial cognition, inhibitory control, and general cognitive development. His newest book, entitled The Self Illusion: Why there is no you inside your head is due out this year. He was awarded an Alfred Sloan Fellowship in neuroscience, the Young Investigator Award from the International Society of Infancy Researchers, the Robert Fantz memorial award and recently voted to Fellowship status by the society of American Psychological Science.
Frank Kehren
complexities of the brain. The first lecture asked ‘What’s in your head?’ The second lectured considered ‘Who’s in charge here anyway?’ and the final lecture discussed, ‘Are you thinking what I’m thinking?’ Hood explains how we as humans create our own versions of reality; what makes our brain decide what information to trust and what to ignore, and why we are wired to read other people’s minds. Professor Hood’s research interests include the origin of supernatural beliefs, intuitive theory formation,
Royal Association
The 2011 Royal Institution Christmas Lectures delivered by University of Bristol psychologist Professor Bruce Hood, proved so popular over Christmas, that they were rebroadcast on BBC 2 on 24th to the 26th January. The Christmas Lectures have become a British Christmas Tradition since they started in 1825. The lectures, delivered by Professor Hood, explored how the human brain works and how it makes us truly human. The three part series, which featured numerous hands-on demonstrations were delivered in the iconic theatre at the Royal Institution and drew 2.4m viewers. Professor Hood, is the Director of the Bristol Cognitive Development Centre in the School of Experimental Psychology at the University of Bristol. He has been a research fellow at Cambridge University and University College London, a visiting scientist at MIT and a faculty professor at Harvard. Hood’s three-part lecture series discussed the astounding
Around 50 Chinese students from the University of Bristol volunteered at the M Shed and Bristol Museum and Art Gallery on the 28th and 29th of January to aid Chinese New Year celebrations. President of the Chinese Society, Qidi Qi commented, ‘It’s our pleasure to join in with this activity and collaborate with the museum.’
Attenborough films in University labs Ellie Pierce Hayley Terretta News Reporters
Flickr: Stan was
Sir David Attenborough recently filmed the MillerUrey experiement at the University of Bristol School of Biological Sciences
Bristol University recently enjoyed a visit from the legendary Sir David Attenborough as part of the filming for his upcoming new series. The series, which is being produced by the BBC’s Natural History Unit, based in Bristol, marks 60 years of natural history programmes for the television star. It will look at how views of the world’s history have changed over the six decades of his career. Attenborough is best known for writing and presenting the nine Life series, in conjunction with the BBC Natural History Unit, which collectively form a comprehensive survey of all life on the planet. He has also enjoyed acclaim for Blue Planet, Planet Earth and most recently Frozen Planet in 2011. Sir David Attenborough’s visit took him to one of the laboratories in the School of Biological Sciences for a demonstration of the Miller-
Urey experiment. This experiment is based on an attempt to explore the origin of life, and seeks to recreate and stimulate hypothetical conditions that may have been present in the atmosphere in the early stages of the Earth’s history. The experiment then tests for compounds that would be needed for evolution to occur. This includes investigating and testing for the occurrence of chemical origins of life. The same experiment was first carried out around sixty years ago by Stanley Miller and Harold Urey, who were at the time working at the University of Chicago. After Miller’s death in 2007, scientists examining sealed vials preserved from the original experiments were able to show that there were actually well over 20 different amino acids produced in Miller’s original experiments. The series in which the footage will feature is due to be shown in the autumn and will consist of three films. These films will explore the main areas of Attenborough’s extensive career, with a focus on three trends: filmmaking,
science, and our relationship with the natural world. Episodes will be comprised of a mix of old and new footage, looking at the discoveries made in his past series and bringing them up to date with the latest discoveries. The BBC promises that each episode will be richly illustrated with the images he has spent 60 years capturing in addition to new footage in which he revisits the stories and locations featured in previous series. He brings them up to date with the latest developments and his own personal anecdotes to create an inimitable insight into a unique half-century. The visit comes at an exciting time for the School of Biological Sciences, in light of the ongoing progress in plans to build a brand new building for the department, estimated to cost around £50m. The flagship 13,500 square metre facility will sit on the corner of St Michael’s Hill and Tyndall Avenue. The project underscores the University’s belief that many of the century’s most exciting and important scientific advances will come from biology.
Epigram
06.02.2012
9
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Epigram
06.02.2012
Features
Editor: Tristan Martin
Deputy Editor: Andrew White
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@epigramfeatures
Elected mayors: does Bristol need one?
Epigram finds out if an elected Mayor is affordable and if so, what effect a stronger civic leadership could have on the city Katie Briefel Features Reporter
http://stephenwilliams.org.uk
A referendum proposing Bristol’s own directly elected mayor will take place this May, raising the question of whether Bristol needs, and can afford one. Will it contribute a sense of direction and focus to a city which many argue fails to get things done? Are there some lessons Bristol and other cities in the UK can learn from international examples of successful mayors? With the backdrop of globalization, Bristol - and many other cities’ - economic base has shifted. The economic agenda and consideration of Bristol’s economic future is important considering the current crisis. Some critics raise concerns that an elected mayor is going to cost more than we can currently afford and add another layer of bureaucracy. However, the Institute of Government has demonstrated that an elected mayor does not cost more, but less than a council leader. Taking Lewisham as an example, the switch from council leader to elected mayor generated greater income, efficiency and inward investment. Indeed, in December of last year, it was announced that London’s mayor Boris Johnson, although often ridiculed, has secured the delivery of savings of more than £2 billion. He commented, ‘When elected, I promised to put an end to the outrageous increases in GLA’s share of the council tax, and I am pleased we are now all reaping the benefits of having strong financial controls in place.’ A directly elected mayor could provide the direction and leadership to address specific problems and targets for the economy of the
Steven Wiliams MP is a likely candidate for the proposed elected Mayor
city of Bristol. Strong individual leadership can also reap benefits to do with civil unrest, making real change in fragmented communities. The August riots present a strong argument for the need for leadership to solve frictions and tensions. An example of this is Bradford, which was plagued by the infamous 2001 riots but experienced very little trouble in the summer of 2011. The difference is arguably their new civic leadership and strong community cohesion. Changing dynamics of cities and growing opportunities for city leaders is paving the way for place-based leadership in an increasingly globalizing world. More generally, the introduction of a mayor in Bristol and other British cities can make a positive step towards the reversal of the centralization of power in England. Robin Hambleton
author of ‘Decentralization and Democracy’ and ‘Another chance for Cities?’ argues that we ‘live in the most centralized state in the Western world.’ Instead of distant decision
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Taking Lewisham as an example, the switch from council leader to elected mayor generated greater income, efficiency and inward investment
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makers, lacking in day-to-day experience of the city, we should strengthen local democracy to improve the quality of life of Bristol citizens as well as improving accountability. Over the last 30 years, power has been drawn away from the localities resulting in ministers trying
to do too much and therefore not making great decisions, simultaneously disempowering ourselves. We should allow local places to shape what they do with real visibility and strong local leadership. The coalition government wants to see a bottom up approach to Bristol and other cities. The introduction of a directly elected mayor would bring us closer to achieving this. Bristol can learn a lot from international examples of directly elected mayors. One was introduced last year in Aukland, New Zealand as a result of Government concerns about the fragmented leadership and the influence of London. The city – populated by more than 1.3 million people – has become an excellent example of visible local leadership. It is a model of radical, decisive change. It is also an example of a successful multi-cultural city.
Freiburg in Germany, although different to Aukland, serves as an example of the benefits reaped by a directly elected mayor. Governed by a strong green party approach with Proportional Representation, Freiburg has become the leading eco-city in Europe, setting an impressive precedent for others to follow. Car ownership has noticeably decreased, alongside the development of superb cycle routes. Similarly, the ban on volume house builders has led to the growth of intelligently designed neighborhoods. The success of the mayor (with strong local involvement and multi-level leadership) can be correlated with the city’s recent startling achievements with public transport, the environment and quality of life for its citizens. Again, differing from the previous two models, Chicago presents an example of a strong successful mayor who directly influences businesses and other key players. There is a long-term view and strategy for what direction the city is going in the future with improvements already underway. An example of this is the high quality of public service responsiveness, which is superior to any European countries. In Chicago, one can dial 399 for anything except an emergency and consequently receive assistance 24 hours a day. These are examples of very different politics in different cities and different mayoral roles, each however finding solutions to city-specific problems. While the mayoral role has the capacity to make positive changes in a local position of power, there needs to be checks and balances on these leaders. Ken Livingston, when asked in an interview why he campaigned for the role of Mayor of London, said he did not personally agree
with the idea of having one at all, but thought that with ‘all the power and opportunity for corruption it should be at least done by someone like myself.’ In terms of the future Bristol campaign, however, competition is less fierce, with the majority of MPs fighting shy of the role. Of Bristol’s MPs, only Liberal Democrat Stephen Williams has expressed an interest, although he said he could not give a certain answer. He told the Post last week: ‘If a directly elected mayor of Bristol is created, any politician who has strong views about how the city should develop and cares about Bristol ought to think seriously whether they should make a contribution to the running of the city in that way.’ He added, ‘I … am very seriously thinking it through.’ A related issue is the recent widespread debate over Bristol’s apparent inability to get things done and make decisive changes. The Evening Post ran an article about improving Bristol which sparked debate across the city with many people writing in, pointing the finger at weak local politics and criticizing ‘expensive public transport’ and ‘overstretched road network’ among the disappointment over the prevalence of indecisive party politics and scrapped plans for sports stadiums for example. For many, it is clear that decisive leadership would be a welcome change in Bristol, not only to allow us compete on a financial level but to fulfill the city’s potential. Local power creates local space for innovation. And we need to innovate in the current circumstances. The debate will be held on 22nd February at 7PM in the Conference Hall of Bristol City Council.
Bristol Mayor Tweets @MartinFarmer Need a Greater Bristol Council to give future Mayor scope to progress schemes that are needed in our Gr8 city.
@GusHoyt As Bristol’s LibDems say “NO!” to a mayor-local LD MP knows he won’t get re-elected so will try mayoral chances instead
Could Bristol’s elected mayor wear red trousers or a pirate suit? Have an IMDb entry or be good at sums?
Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who has been credited with huge reforms
Flickr: juggernautco
@BristolCulture
Epigram
06.02.2012
11
Abandoned Bristol As the demolition of the old children’s hospital opposite the ASS library rumbles on, we decided to take a look at some of Bristol’s most neglected buildings
Clockwise from top left: the Elizabeth Shaw chocolate factory, the old Parcel Force building, and the Grosvenor Hotel by Temple Meads
Visit the Epigram website for the full collection of photographs
Epigram
06.02.2012
12
Reflections on the Israel-Palestine territories Helena Blackstone Features Reporter
Adam Jones : Camilla Lupton
As a girl from a Jewish family, I had visited Israel often. In recent years though, I had grown uneasy at how little I knew about the tensions in the region, especially regarding the IsraelPalestine conflict. My resolution: a trip through Lebanon, Israel and the Palestinian territories in order to gain some insight into the issues for myself. Before entering Lebanon I had to obtain a new passport, as evidence of my previous visits to Israel would have been enough to send me home before I left the ground. All evidence that we were going onwards to Israel had to be removed, and as a land crossing through Syria was out of the question, we flew via Jordan. With neighboring Syria on the verge of civil war, the sight of lost limbs and bullet-pocked buildings in Lebanon were a constant reminder; not only of previous wars with Israel, but also of the 15-year civilwar caused in part by hostility towards the hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees who immigrated there after the creation of Israel. Unable to talk openly to the people we met, I started to become aware of a growing unease at our connection to Israel and of my own Jewish identity. One friend we could speak openly with – a Brit with Lebanese ties – asked, ‘Do you feel bad visiting Israel, considering how Palestinians
The Dome of The Rock in Jerusalem is sacred to Jews, Christians and Muslims alike
are forced to live?’ It wouldn’t be until we reached Palestine that I could find an answer. In Israel we met an Arab girl named Nawah. She lives in Nazareth and attends the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Still getting to grips with the history of the conflict, Nawah clarified for me that ‘Palestinians are from those areas which didn’t agree to be part of Israel in the
‘48 agreement. Arabs who live in Israel are those who did and they are called Israeli Palestinians - it appears on their passports but not on their ID cards. Palestinians cannot enter Israel without special permission, like a medical issue. Whereas IsraeliPalestinians such as myself can move around wherever but we get more questions.’ What were her feelings on
the Israel-Palestine situation I wondered? ‘We don’t like to think about it, otherwise we wouldn’t know where we are. My grandparents lived in Palestine and it was their home. If I was back in ‘48, I would be only for Palestine, but it’s different now. They [the Jews] have been here for 3 generations. This is their home now too.’ On the question of Palestinian
animosity and violence, Nawah pointed quite simply towards their treatment: ‘We buy what we’re sold. People begin to behave how they’re expected to’, meaning if someone is treated with hostility as a security threat, they will react violently and so continue the cycle. A few days later Nawah joined us on an attempted trip to Jericho in the West Bank, during
which our car broke down. With no insurance and the borders closing soon for evening, we were forced to take refuge with an impoverished but incredibly generous Palestinian family. One older woman told Nawah, who translated, of how she had not been able to visit her daughter for 17 years, though her daughter is free to visit her. I began to realize that fraught links like these exist all over Israel and the Palestinian territories; countless families divided by the category of their identity cards. In meeting this one Palestinian family I became aware of the inevitable strain on any kind of solidarity between a people divided. Able to live in relative freedom and prosperity, Arab Israelis have imitated to survive in a place with Western ideals, and as such are rejected by many Palestinians. As I open my eyes for the first time to all the soldiers in Israel’s streets, an image comes to mind - of Israel as an unnatural insertion into a land determined to repel it, its borders held in place only by the security of occupation. And as I thought about the question posed by my Lebanese friend, I really grasped the magnitude of the problem. Neither in Israel nor in the territories are Arabs allowed to live as they should, but Israel is no longer so new that its disappearance would solve the problem. This is a country now home to Jews just as it is Arabs, and it is on such an understanding that progress towards peace must be made.
Nigeria shaken by religious violence David Mountain Features Reporter On Christmas day, 2011, Nigeria was rocked by a series of bomb attacks targeting churches and Christians, leaving dozens dead. Then on Friday 20th January, a set of co-ordinated bombings and shootings occurred in the city of Kano in northern Nigeria, killing an estimated 160 people. The group responsible, Boko Haram, is a product of the antipathy between Christians and Muslims that has scarred Nigeria throughout its history. There are hopeful signs, however, that Nigeria is willing to abandon the religious dogmatism of the past and unite against these attacks. Boko Haram is a militant Islamist group with the aim of establishing Nigeria as an Islamic state. Their name roughly translates as: ‘Western education is forbidden’; they believe that all aspects of western civilisation – into
which they include suffrage, modern science and secular education – should be ousted from Nigeria. It was created in 2002, but gained notoriety in 2009 when hundreds were killed following its attack on police stations in the north-east city of Maiduguri. It has continued with similar spates of violence since, targeting government buildings, churches and the police. The Times of Nigeria reports that Boko Haram has killed a total of 510 people in 2011 alone. Nigeria is a large country of over 160 million people, belonging to 250 ethnic groups and speaking as many languages. It is also one of most devoutly religious countries in the world; in a 2004 survey by the BBC, 90% of Nigerians – both Christian and Muslim – claimed that they were willing to die for their faith. This has all too often proved sadly true; since independence in 1960 there have been numerous outbreaks of violence between the predominantly Muslim
north and the Christian populations in the South – often fuelled, if unintentionally, by the exploitation of regional animosity by Nigeria’s volatile politics. Since the 1980s there have been increasing calls for the introduction of Sharia law in northern Islamic states. Often it is because people have lost faith in Nigeria’s judicial system, and therefore see Sharia law as a chance to wipe away western decadence that has corrupted Nigeria. In October 1999 a Nigerian governor, Ahmed Sani, announced the adoption of Sharia law for his state of Zamfara. Despite Christian outcry, 12 out of Nigeria’s 37 states followed his lead, emboldening support for an Islamic state. These events triggered a wave of violence throughout the country; in southern regions, hundreds were killed when Christians attacked mosques and Muslim worshippers. These feelings have fed into Boko Haram and its demands.
However, something is crucially different this time in Nigeria’s response to the religious violence. Muslim leaders in northern Nigeria called for people to, ‘ignore their religious and political inclinations’, and avoid being swept into the conflict. Similarly, 200 Muslims, including local clerics and politicians, offered peace prayers in stricken Kano in a display of unity against Friday’s attacks. These and similar displays show how far Nigeria has come since its independence, when one of its principle leaders, the Sarduana of Sokoto, declared: ‘members of other religions might as well belong to another world as far as we were concerned’. These calls for solidarity are not merely rhetoric – they are being embraced and enacted by the Nigerian people. This is partly due to ongoing economic problems in Nigeria, which is providing a common cause for both Christians and Muslims to rally against. But it is also an expression of the
Heightened religious violence is bringing instability to Nigeria
will of many Nigerians to avoid further religious turmoil. Pictures broadcast in recent days show members of both faiths marching side by side in demonstrations against recent fuel subsidy cuts, and Christians
forming a human shield around Muslims whilst they prayed. It is images like these, not those of Boko Haram’s destruction, which should stay in our minds when we consider the future of Nigeria’s faith relations.
Comment
Epigram
Editor: Patrick Baker
Deputy Editor: Hugh Davies
comment@epigram.org.uk
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06.02.2012
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Politicians struggle to do the right wing Blundering candidates are just a result of the ridiculous expectations put upon them Tom Keating
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The danger for voters, in terms of credible political candidates, is a world where leaders are expected to perpetually respond to every whim and desire that we have of them
headlines with a promise to establish a US base on the moon – yes, the moon – by the end of his second term as president. And all of a sudden the race seems to have taken the form of a ridiculous drama, in which the only way to proceed is to unleash yet more controversy and political spiel onto a baying audience of news watchers. It’s sort of like an episode of The West Wing, but somehow less believable and without the self-affirming tones of Martin Sheen. The result is that all these controversies are to the detriment of US politics. They are damaging to the credibility of the Republican Party and harmful to American politics’ need to secure a credible candidate for those disillusioned
by the hope espoused ahead of Obama’s first term. Obviously,for many Americans, Romney and Gingrich still represent very credible candidates for GOP nomination, and indeed presidency. Both candidates remain frontrunners as potential challengers to Obama’s re-election at the end of the year. But what is less obvious, is how these scandals affect our expectations and demands of elected leaders. The danger for voters, in terms of credible political candidates, is a world where leaders are expected to perpetually respond to every whim and desire that we have of them. We expect them to appear respectable in an official capacity, while also wanting them to be likeable. We expect them to attend to specific
religious and cultural concerns through political ruling, and to also follow those principles to the letter in their personal lives. In fact, they are no longer purely personal lives, but important details that impact the decisions of constituent voters. That is why I think it is hard to imagine life as president; to have the most important job in the world and to be expected to live and conduct this service from the confines of the White House. Is it really any wonder that thoroughly questionable candidates, like Romney and Gingrich, are the best the Republicans have to offer? Who would want to be responsible for the welfare of millions of people while drastically restricting one’s own personal freedoms? The truth of the matter is that
a lot of people would take the job. It is important, powerful, and looks much better than a Duke of Edinburgh Bronze award on a CV. Given this, I fervently believe that we need to reassess what we expect from political leaders. Continuing to elect people on the basis of their personal lives is to the detriment of society. It encourages campaigns to be run on the basis of serving conflicting individual demands, and breeds ridiculous candidates who attempt to cover up the evidence of their own hypocrisy in their personal lives. Instead, we need to seek out a different political endgame that is not just about voting for a politician’s eccentric personal habits, but instead places impetus on increasing equality both within and between societies.
Flickr: GageSkidmore
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Students tend to fall into two categories in their approach towards US politics. There are those that are really keen who rant and rave, yet there are also those that drearily nod in agreement, wondering what on earth a GOP is. And whilst the latter group half-heartedly agree to check out that blog that ‘explains it better than I can’ and even sign the e-petitions that clutter their news feeds, interest in American politics remains fairly sporadic. However, it looks as though this may all be about to change in light of the recent controversies in the Republican presidential candidacy race. So far, the race has taken some unlikely and interesting turns. Take, for example, frontrunner Mitt Romney’s unlikely $10000 bet with another candidate – proposed during a live televised debate – or the furore surrounding Romney’s latest tax return, which revealed that he pays only half the tax rate expected of someone earning over $20 million dollars. The latest scandal to grip media interest involves fellow front runner Newt Gingrich, and reports that he asked for an open marriage with his second wife, Merianne, while at the same time fronting speeches about the importance of marriage and the ‘demise of American culture’ to Republican womens groups. The scandal is exacerbated due to Merianne’s long-run fight with Multiple Sclerosis, which she claims was worsened by the ‘messy’ divorce proceedings that followed. Awful? Despicable? Undoubtedly. Since this, Gingrich has also hit the
Welfare reform: It’s time to choose your poison
Jevon Whitby Before the almost inevitable row with the person next to you about welfare ‘scroungers’ or the harshness of coalition cuts, let’s establish some facts that are accepted by all sides of the benefits debate. The UK’s welfare state is very large, costing £202.6bn last year, making it the biggest public expenditure. The socalled ‘entitlement culture’ is
also too excessive, with 16% of children growing up in homes without a single wageearner. Yet despite our national reliance on welfare, cutting benefits is backed by 72% of us, giving the coalition a popular mandate for this week’s ongoing war on the spiralling cost of ‘handouts.’ In spite of the mere 0.5% percent of fraud cases, public anger rails against incapacity benefit fraud with 84% demanding cuts. The endless media reporting of scandals about migrants living off the welfare state has only helped fuel an already ill-informed public opinion. Such general disquiet at ‘entitlement culture’ has grown with
stories about ‘incapacitated’ claimants caught water-skiing, far more than it has from the cold, hard numbers - the most alarming of which being that Government debt has recently passed £1 trillion. The truth is that the British people claiming benefits fully within the bounds of the law make up by far the majority of this dire total cost and, as the Daily Telegraph cannot help but gleefully report, 2011 was the first year for a decade in which the government paid out more in benefits than it collected in income tax. As part of the coalition’s largescale plans to cut £18bn from the welfare budget, last week saw a major development in
the war on the welfare of 50,000 households. An attempt to cap benefits to £26,000 a year was defeated in the House of Lords by 15 votes, as opponents tried to get an exemption for child benefit, a provision which the Conservatives insist would make any cap irrelevant. Should the proposals eventually go through in some form or other, expect the public mood to turn violently, as the effect of cuts manifests to harm ‘actual’ people. As Labour will no doubt continue to assert, the cuts will worsen the economic situation of many of the most vulnerable: a disabled child for example will effectively lose £27 a week in benefits.
Why can we not restrict the freedoms of benefits to make them less desirable, and demand certain obligations in return, such as restrictions on how a claimant spends a benefit? For example, rather than providing monetary unemployment benefit, pay people to work part-time for the community. At the very least, the ‘Big Society’ might then have some more volunteers and provide a more transparently productive welfare budget. The simple answer is because the coalition is not targeting ‘dependency culture’ at all, but the deficit. Be under no illusions, the welfare state is not under attack from the
Conservative party but from a team of accountants, and the war on benefits is being undertaken simply because welfare is the biggest burden and most obvious target for the Treasury. Once again, the British government are bound to discover that the welfare state is a dangerously complex phenomenon that if left unregulated, will cause severe financial damage. However, if dramatically cut back, it will have equally grim electoral consequences for whoever is brave enough to make the call. Given this conundrum the battle for benefits is unlikely to end soon. Cameron: take your pick.
Epigram
06.02.2012
14
The Israeli settler enterprise is illegal
Israel’s recent razing of several Bedouin homes is simply a continuation of her aggresive expansionist policies
Benjamin Lazarus
Adumim settlement, and it becomes increasingly difficult to imagine the establishment of a viable Palestinian state. Indeed, Israel continue to reject Palestinian building permits. For example, in the years 2000-2007 the Civil Administration approved only 5% of the applications for building permits in Area C submitted by Palestinians, according to the Israeli NGO, Bimkom – and that figure is reportedly even lower today. Moreover, in 2011 the demolition of homes and infrastructure in both East Jerusalem and the West Bank displaced over eleven thousand Palestinians – twice the amount of the previous year. Interestingly, this week, Israel’s Supreme Court ordered over fifty Jewish families that had settled in Migron, a remote hilltop village in Ramallah, to leave their settlement. Chief of Justice, Dorit Beinisch, claimed ‘we can only hope residents accept their duty not to behave as hooligans and resettle in any other place the State allows them to.’ However, the State has proposed a ‘compromise’ and allowed them to settle elsewhere in the West Bank. Thus, whilst the Migron outpost will be removed, it will nonetheless be rebuilt on a site just 2 km away – on occupied Palestinian land. A highly questionable approach that
Flickr: p medved
Last Tuesday, Israeli forces demolished a Bedouin home near Jerusalem for the fifth time, despite it being described by The Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions as a ‘peace centre’. Later that evening a further four structures were destroyed. The previous night, Israeli forces in the Jordan Valley had demolished ten buildings in the village of al-Anja. According to a Civil Administration spokesperson, Guy Inbar, they had been constructed without Israeli planning permission. However, the biggest blow came on Wednesday 25th January when Israelis raided Umm Al Kheer, near Hebron in Area C and demolished two houses, despite the fact that neither structure was under demolition order. Reportedly one house belonged to an elderly couple, and the other housed a singlemother with nine children. The spokesperson for the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, Chris Gunness, was damning of the
Israelis, claiming that ‘under the fourth Geneva convention the occupying power should be providing structures, not bulldozing them – as the Israelis are doing to Bedouin homes.’ This however is not a new phenomenon. Instead, it forms part of Israel’s increasingly aggressive expansionist policy under Benjamin Netanyahu. In December 2011, Netanyahu’s government was planning to forcibly remove 20 Bedouin communities between Jerusalem and Jericho, and relocate them to a public rubbish dump on the outskirts of Jerusalem. It would involve the relocation of over 2,300 members of the Jahalin tribe - two-thirds of which are below the age of 18. The designated relocation is already home to over 4,000 Jahalins who were evicted in the 1990s. According to the UN, the site ‘does not meet minimum standards in terms of distance from the municipal dumping grounds, and living standards in the area are not only appalling, but have also led to the ‘loss of tribal cohesion and erosion of traditional lifestyles.’ Netanyahu is hoping to remove all 27,000 Bedouin Arabs from the Israeli controlled Area C in the West Bank, to allow for further settlement expansion, seperating the West Bank from East Jerusalem. Add to this the expansion of the Ma’ale
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one has come to expect from Netanyahu’s regime. Hagit Ofram from Peace Now, described the ‘compromise’ as sending out a message that if ‘you steal Palestinian land without authority and threaten the use of violence; we will build you a new settlement on the taxpayer’s account.’ He then added ‘It’s outrageous.’ Indeed, it does seem outrageous that a marginalised minority of religious zealots can hold so much power in a society of seven million people.
In the mid 1800s, when the notion of a Jewish state was first discussed, many assimilated Jews in both America and Europe decreed Zionism as a form of petty, Bourgeoisie nationalism. Today, I don’t think even they could have foreseen such violent nationalism. The only viable outcome of this conflict is a two-state solution: Jews living in East Jerusalem and the West Bank stifling the aspirations for a Palestinian homeland can only lead to more bloodshed
over an issue which has been a largely sanguine affair during the last 64 years. Thus, while some may point to the fact that Israel abandoned settlements in the Gaza strip to be met with rocket fire, it nonetheless does not change the fact that the settlements themselves - whether obtained in a war started by the Arabs in 1967 or not - are built on ultra-nationalism, violence and a complete disregard for international law, and must be left alone.
Close to the bone: society must beat Anorexia Jessica Wingrad
are petitioning to ‘ban all size zero models and models with an unhealthy BMI (below 18.5) from the fashion catwalks.’ In a time when the fashion industry is so influential, it is necessary to target the most harmful messages, such as negative representations of women or the sexualisation of children. The issue of anorexia and unhealthily thin models has a traditional place on this list. Anorexia has been discussed for decades, yet advertisements are still littered with shrunken models, who live on a daily diet consisting of a crouton and a glass of water. UK parliament recently published figures from the NHS showing the number of patients who have been diagnosed with anorexia since 1996. Far from the numbers dropping, there has been an increase in people suffering from the illness; in 2005-06 the number was at 620, up from 517 in the previous two years. Rather than encouraging women to lose weight, the fashion industry have a duty to present beautiful women as those of a healthy size.
Flickr: Allengreen
Flickr:AllenGreen Zutufarms Flickr: Flickr: Malingering
4in. Staring out at you from the dark grey background of the ‘No Anorexia’ advertisement billboard, Caro expresses the pain and anxiety typical of her affliction. Behind her gaunt, lifeless form, lies the story of 13 year old Caro who suffered from a ‘troubled childhood,’ as she herself described it, which left her in a temporary coma at its worst after her anorexia became consuming. Yet the detrimental effects of anorexia have been publicised for almost as long as it has been an issue. In 1998, the British Medical Association condemned the obsession of the media with ultraskinny supermodels at their annual conference in Cardiff. The Advertising Standards Authority have been dogging the footsteps of the modelling industry. In 2011, the clothing brand ‘Drop Dead’ had an advert banned, which showed a ‘size 6’ model in a bikini. Furthermore, campaign groups such as ‘Say No to Size Zero’ and ‘Beating Eating Disorders’ fight to present ‘healthy’ looking women as role models. The official website for Say No to Size Zero says they
Flickr: Pisana
We live in a society where losing weight is valued as highly as having a flashy sports car or expensive jewellery. We live in hope that new fad diet pills or fat-busting yoghurt will ensure that the pounds melt from our very bodies; we pray that cellulite or a beer belly will never trouble us again. It seems pretty evident that the fashion industry has a pretty ludicrous interest in convincing the rest of us that we are fat. It is implied everywhere that putting on weight will somehow inhibit our right to a happy and fulfilling life. According to research from Marketdata Enterprises Inc., the weight loss market in the U.S.A. in 2010 was reaping in annual revenues of over $60 billion. This is the same industry, which
endorses its emaciated models to pose with skin pulled tight over protruding bones. When it comes to models and the fashion world, the controversial words of Kate Moss are held as gospel: ‘nothing tastes as good as skinny feels.’ Models are expected to be the pinnacle of beauty and perfection, templates to which the rest of the world aspire. Maintaining the ‘perfect’ body is stressful even for those with the strongest resolve. Inevitably, some turn to extreme measures, one of which is anorexia. The news is scattered with stories of women in the modelling industry who have succumbed to the fatal effects of the disease. One model whose battle against anorexia was no secret to the public was Isabelle Caro, who died aged only 28 as a result of the disorder. In 2007, Caro appeared in a shocking advertising campaign involving her naked, skeletal body beneath the words ‘No Anorexia.’ At the time she posed for the anti-anorexia campaign, Caro weighed just 4st 8lb (68lbs) and stood at 5ft
Epigram
06.02.2012
15
Bristol blues bite hard at start of 2012
Amina Makele assesses the issue of student depression and why it is so prevalent at the beginning of the year
Amina Makele
standards can lead to constant experiences of demoralising failure. People become over critical of themselves. This can invite depression into someone’s life. Always trying to catch oneself out for mistakes can lead to a corrosive selfdestruction. The stereotypical image of the carefree student is slipping away. In the current job market, it seems impossible to get on without a degree. More than this, the current
climate is so competitive that employers will only look at a 2:1 and above. As tuition fees rise, the need to make the most of our money contributes to the mounting stress. Being away from home makes people more reliant on their peer groups, which can provide extra social pressure on students to ‘fit in.’ Comparing ourselves to friends who may get a higher mark in an exam or be the star of a sports team can
lead to a crushing inferiority complex, for example. A typical student lifestyle doesn’t help matters. Unhealthy eating habits, inconsistent sleep and excessive consumption of alcohol are all contributing to the increase in depressing thoughts. Not every student who wanders outside the computer centre after 24 hours of straight studying is clinically depressed. They’re probably in tears and chain-smoking but
they’ll be fine once the panic fever has died down. However, it is good to be aware of the common symptoms. Students Against Depression is an organization, which offers resources, such as information and self-help strategies. They emphasize that ‘depression thrives on isolation.’ So, the most important thing to remember is that you are not alone.
Flickr: Madadminskillz teenager-s.com
As we emerge from the postexam-period haze, everyone is talking about the topic of student depression. Student life is commonly associated with partying, drinking and being a general nuisance to the rest of the population. However, the same aspects of university which make it such a great and diverse experience, present opportunities for students to get depressed. We come to university to have the best time of our lives. While making new friends and testing our livers to the extreme, it’s easy to forget that we’re here to study. That is, until the deadlines hit. Around the exam period cries of ‘I can’t concentrate’ and ‘I’ve only got eight hours left,’ echo through the kebab-ridden streets. The painful realization that we actually want to pass our degrees means that we will do anything; even if it includes all night coffee binges and queuing up at 7.45am for a library seat. However, this kind of last minute panic means that
students are particularly susceptible to depression.Young people are stuck in a highly competitive environment that is far from home and their usual family support system. Serious depression and selfharming becomes a problem when students can only focus on the negative aspects of university life. The Bristol Student Counseling service warns, ‘you may be uncertain whether or not you are depressed. Many people feel down occasionally, or go through bad patches, but have areas in their lives that make them feel good, and like things about themselves. For some people though, life is more of a struggle. They feel bad about themselves and their lives in most ways. At times they feel complete despair. If you feel like this, then you could be depressed.’ Though depression affects different people in different ways, there is a range of warning signs. Loss of interest, lethargy and pessimism are key signs that the stress of university life is becoming a heavy burden. Juggling paid-work, studying and a busy social calendar means that student life tends to be hectic. The pressures may lead students to be perfectionists and become overly self-critical. Aiming high is all well and good but unrealistic
Islamofascism, or did Rushdie bring it on himself?
George Hall On February 21st 2006, the late Christopher Hitchens remarked: ‘Within a short while - this is a warning - the shady term ‘Islamophobia’ is going to be smuggled through our customs.’ Well, here’s an update: the smuggle was successful. To fear preachments such as ‘stone adulteresses to death’, ‘remove the hands of thieves with a carving knife’, and ‘assassinate blasphemous novelists’, is a perfectly rational position for one to adopt. The term ‘Islamophobia’ however, strongly implies an irrational hatred or fear of Islam. Opposing hateful and absurd religious preachments with scorn and condemnation, is entirely sensible, and so the term ‘Islamophobia’ simply has
no foundations on which to lean. As you are more than likely aware, the British Indian novelist Salman Rushdie was forced to decline to be present at this year’s Japuir Literary Festival, India, due to the alarming potential presence of ‘paid assassins from the Mumbai underworld’. It goes without saying that the blackmail of and death threats to a writer for the ‘crime’ of composing a work of fiction - in other words, exercising his inalienable right to freedom of publication - is no less than absolutely outrageous. To unashamedly borrow further from Christopher Hitchens - it must ‘be treated with ridicule and hatred and contempt: and I claim that right’. I have therefore found myself simply aghast to read articles which begin by entertaining an intolerance of such threats of murder, before proceeding rapidly on with the argument that ‘you don’t wave a red rag at a bull, and then complain when it charges at you’ (Manoj Joshi). Upon reading such appallingly
deluded claims, I almost suspect that such writers are deliberately adopting what they perceive to be ‘radical’ opinions, in their desperation to not support the what should be a common cause, though as I continue to read, I am forced to fearfully accept that these writers really do associate themselves with their written convictions. Well excuse me, but how dare fellow writers, who should consider Rushdie a comrade and duly support him, partially excuse the abject refusal to comply with all normal, proportionate and accepted forms of protest. Such ill-considered metaphors as the one regarding the ‘charging bull’ quoted previously, monumentally fail to represent the situation the author of The Satanic Verses is relentlessly forced to confront. For such an ill considered statement to have any basis in reality, it must be altered to an approximation of the following: a novelist ‘waved’ a work of fiction containing mild ‘insults’ of the Prophet Muhammad
(a male adult of the species homo sapiens, who existed in primitive Arabia), at a bull of a foreign state, which, foregoing the option of merely charging, issued a government endorsed fatwa against said novelist. What a hideous and utterly disproportionate reaction, you retort. Yet, arguably not the most outrageous: for that title goes to the murder of Mr. Rushdie’s Japanese translator, Hitoshi Igarashi, and the brutal attack sustained by his Italian translator, Ettore Capriolo, as well as national banning of the printing, ownership and reading of the novel in Iran and India. Despite such barbaric attacks upon civil liberties, following an alarmingly terse condemnation of the threats to Mr. Rushdie’s life, writers employ the following deluded rhetoric: how dare those who have any feeling for human liberty and rights - not to say decency and integrity - blow this affair out of proportion and overshadow the entire literary festival with the situation of Mr. Rushdie. Indeed. After all, Mr. Rushdie - one of
the guest speakers at the festival - has only been threatened with mere assassination if he dares to present himself. Whilst this abhorrent perception of the situation continues, the statement ‘Islam is a religion of peace’ preceded or proceeded by the statement ‘don’t judge us by the fundamentalists’ gushes forth, as if legitimate and justified. Actually, the actions of the fanatics threatening the assassination of a novelist, falls comfortably into the realm of similar actions advised and commanded by Islam’s foundational scriptural authorities. For an idea of the disproportionality of the punishments the Quran and Hadith deem appropriate for particular ‘crimes’, see Surah 4: 15-16 of the Quran, where the crime of ‘lewdness’ is mercilessly punished with the death sentence, or Bukhari 6: 60 of the Hadith, where the great moral and spiritual leader Muhammad, upon learning of the crimes of two people (the crime of adultery), swiftly
punishes them to stoning to death - choosing, on this occasion, to be present at the time of the execution, in close enough proximity to see ‘her companion (i.e. the adulterer) bowing over her so as to protect her from the stones’. I humbly propose that there must be a minimum level of decency here. Hateful and barbaric stone age preachments we are forced to tolerate, but we will not tolerate clerical bullying and intimidation, disguised as ‘offence taking’, and direct challenges to a novelist’s freedom of association, travel, and speech. I propose that if you agree with anything I’ve written, you should - if you haven’t already - read The Satanic Verses, not only for its literary splendour, but to maintain solidarity and camaraderie with a fellow free thinker. To end as I began, with a comment from Christopher Hitchens; the inalienable birth right to freedom of speech and publication ‘will always be part of the arsenal on which we shall need to depend.’
Epigram
06.02.2012
Letters & Editorial
Editor: Emma Corfield letters@epigram.org.uk
We should not shut up and eat the chicken
‘Banter’ culture must stop A group of Plymouth University students faced the ire of the Twitter community last week when their website, ‘Uni Lad’, was taken offline following numerous complaints about its content. Featuring a collection of articles and advice columns promoting the very worst ideals of a testosterone-fuelled, fresher-fucking ‘uni lifestyle’ (but it’s just banter, right?), the site had even managed to buy into that painfully unfunny WWII poster shtick by selling t-shirts emblazoned with ‘Keep Calm, It Won’t Take Long’ (because rape is so jkz, lol!!!) But what was perhaps most alarming about Uni Lad was that it went on to trivialise not just the act of rape, but the statistics that should make even the vilest of hacks think twice before typing. According the author of ‘Sexual Mathematics’, the fact that 85 per of rape cases go unreported was seen as ‘fairly good odds’ to take advantage of. It’s hardly news to say that the internet is full of morons. But when this faceless medium only serves to accelerate and inflict these views upon everyone else, it becomes toxic. You only have to filter through a typical selection of ‘like’ pages on Facebook to witness the prevalence of a new and dangerous breed of ‘socially acceptable’ sexism. Instead of making the most of the web and the privileges of higher education to be witty and world beating, student humour is rapidly regressing into the frustrated and misogynistic facsimile of a ‘70s sitcom. Please, don’t let this be our legacy.
let alone a response. But animal ethics is an important issue; so not least for the enlightenment of Mr Bombadil, but mostly for the positive progression of the moral outlook of our culture and its beneficial effects on sentient beings, I will present counterthoughts to his less intellectually bankrupt points. To begin, it should be established that humans in an industrialised society do not need to eat meat, nor their products, as all of the nutritional benefits can be obtained from other sources. Furthermore, the animals people eat are not ‘emotionless and unknowing’, as even Mr Bombadil notes there should be ‘obvious basic standards set for farms and abattoirs’. Suffering is intrinsic to the meat and animal product industries, with ‘free range’ merely acting as a consumer deluding device, for the conditions of raising and
slaughtering these animals are still abhorrent. Mr Bombadil is right to note that if animals did not constitute part of our diet then there would be far fewer of them. This is a good thing, and certainly so if they would be born to be consumed or exploited, with the suffering which is involved. We have a duty of care to the living, but potential beings have no interest in their existence because there is nothing existing which can hold that interest. To compound the counterpoint, if farm animal numbers were reduced then the burden on places like the Amazon to provide land to produce soya for cattle would decline, and endangered species might recover their numbers. An end to industrialised fishing might restore the barren parts of the ocean, so certainly then more animals would flourish. So what does shutting
up and eating the chicken entail? It entails the individual perpetuating an industry that profits at the expense of the suffering of sentient beings for a particular flavour on the palate and texture between their teeth. The act of eating chicken in England tacitly buys into an outdated relationship with animals, one which is burdened to change as it is inconsistent with our less violent culture, one which better understands the capacity for animals to suffer and have nutrition available from sources which hugely reduce the suffering inflicted. Even if Mr Bombadil does not adopt a vegan diet, he should acknowledge which side has won the argument, and if he were to peer into a slaughterhouse, knowing what he advocated, he would feel the strength of the argument too. Lucas Batt
Union needs to revise and improve democratic procedures I am the president of ‘Students for Life’. We are keen to ensure that students are aware of an alternative perspective on the abortion debate and are not homophobic nor anti-women as insinuated by Mr Paynter in issue 244. To make the claim that we hide our ‘decrepit dogma behind a secular veneer’ before even attending one of our meetings is discourteous within a respectful academic arena. These assumptions are completely unsubstantiated and offensive to the atheist/agnostic, homosexual and feminist members of our society and the wider pro-life community. Indeed, a worrying disregard for minority groups is further evident in the Pro-Choice Policy being passed at UBU (University of Bristol Students’ Union). While the Union should definitely be
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making all reproductive options known to students, they should not be dictating a fixed moral stance on an issue as divisive and emotive as abortion. They should instead facilitate open debate and leave students free to make their own decisions - without the determined viewpoint that the pro-life stance is unethical, imposed on them. If a policy such as this is going to be implemented, then it should at least be debated upon fairly by Student Council. At the last SC meeting, the Pro-Choice Policy was placed, with five other motions, under the vague umbrella ‘Policies of the Student Conference’ and passed without an appropriately democratic and thorough discussion. The policies should never have been allowed to be retrospectively passed through without a fair, open and
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rigorous reinvestigation of each motion. Everyone was allowed to vote at the Conference, which was not overseen by an elected Democracy and Engagement Committee; both these actions clearly violate UBU’s constitution (5.2 and 6.1 http://www.ubu. org.uk/pageassets/voice/takingaction/Union-Byelaws-2011.pdf). Since November 4th, Students for Life has repeatedly requested that the Union give us accurate, written information on UBU’s democratic protocol. To date, this has still not been provided. Our society therefore proposed a motion for the Enhancement of Democratic Procedures, which
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was passed by Student Council. This will hopefully ensure proper democracy for UBU and a policy of transparency of information, where the playing field for normal students submitting motions alongside Sabbatical Officers is levelled. While we realise that many may disagree with our pro-life stance, we hope they will support freedom of expression for all students (in line with the Union’s neutral Safe Space Policy) and our request for UBU to organise a full, respectful democratic discussion on the Pro-Choice Policy, under revised and fair democratic procedures. Eve Farren
To get in touch, send an email to letters@epigram.org.uk
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no.53
The pressure on those in the public eye earning massive bonuses and vast annual salaries is mounting. With the revelations last week that RBS chief executive Stephen Hester has renounced his bonus of nearly £1million, and the head of the Student Loans Company will no longer be allowed to dodge tens of thousands in tax, the spotlight has now turned onto large salaries in the public sector. It comes as no surprise that vice chancellors, the aloof leaders of Universities perceived to be behind every lecturer redundancy, have received criticism for their seemingly ridiculous pay packets. It’s not to say that Epigram doesn’t think that the senior staff in the University’s pay shouldn’t be scrutinised. Or that £314,000 a year isn’t an extortionate amount of money in light of the recent cuts to lecturers’ pay. But before students take every opportunity they have to damn the University for each and every action it takes, they should think carefully about whether their criticisms are well directed. Student democracy is in a sorry state at Bristol at the moment, but there are more important issues that desperately need highlighting and campaigning on. What might help students in a more direct and immediate way would be to focus on the scrapping of bursaries, or engaging with a national campaign against all vice-chancellors’ high pay, some of whom have had considerably higher salaries and rises than our own. By all means attack Eric Thomas for his 0.5% pay rise, but students should not waste their breath or meagre amount of political capital when their words could be used elsewhere to actually make a difference.
Crossword
VC’s pay not a pressing issue
Mr Bombadil’s letter in issue 245 reveals some poorly justified prejudices which can erupt from individuals when attempting to justify their consumption of meat, betraying an unconsidered response to a challenge to a social norm. The challenge of changing our moral association with animals hacks at some of the most entrenched prejudices still plaguing our culture, bearing analogy with the eradication of slavery by enlightening racists. In this light, Mr Bombadil’s bracing for ‘vigorous nodding’ to all arguments against such a challenge is not unexpected, for a paradigm shift in thought is difficult, but one might expect a better response from someone willing to publically express an opinion, and not just to publish prejudice. Many of the arguments and suppositions he presented are hardly worth a second glance,
ACROSS
1. Shoulder gesture (5) 4. Antidepressant (6) 9. Thames ...., antiflooding measure (7) 10. Prime male (5) 11. .... Harris (4) 12. Military unit (7) 13. Compete (3) 14. Site of Egyptian pyramids (4) 16. Welsh emblem (4) 18. Unreturnable serve (3) 20. Parliamentary proceedings report (7) 21. Several (1,3) 24. Japanese city (5) 25. N. American mammal (7) 26. Live (6) 27. John Major’s wife (5)
DOWN
1. Outskirts of a city (6) 2. Bucolic (5) 3. Manner of walking (4) 5. Easily decipherable (8) 6. Part of American address (3,4) 7. Shackles (6) 8. Complaint (5) 13. Outlaw (8) 15. Rock from solidified lava (7) 17. Tight-fitting necklace (6) 18. Add ornament to (5) 19. Landlocked African country (6) 22. Powder from grinding ceral grains (5) 23. Religious Painting (4)
Epigram
06.02.2012
17 Scribble by Jen Springall
Unco-operative
Bloggingportal The portal for EU blogs Last week, Bloggingportal celebrated its third birthday. The website features content from blogs related to EU affairs. There are currently 904 blogs but the number continues to rise. Content is selected by editors and categorised according to country and topics, including ‘Economy’, ‘Environment’ and ‘Governance’. The editors’ choice of the best content is featured on the website’s front page, RSS and Twitter feed, and at the end of each week they write ‘The Week in Bloggingportal’, which summaries what has been going on in the EU through the blog posts they have posted. The idea for Bloggingportal came from EU blogger Jon Worth. He wanted to ‘bring an alternative perspective on EU affairs to a wider audience’ and to make EU blogs more accessible by listing them in one place. Visitors are encouraged to contribute by proposing EU blogs and blog articles for the website to feature. Current highlights include the post ‘At bursting point’ on The Economist’s ‘Charlemagne’s Notebook’, which discusses government spending as a factor in Europe’s debt crisis and Europe’s future, and on her blog ‘The Honeyball Buzz’, Labour MEP Mary Honeyball’s critique of David Cameron’s attack on Eurozone leaders at the World Economic Forum. http://www.bloggingportal.eu
Best of the web
Tweets of the fortnight @ajhmurray So the board of RBS would have resigned if he hadn’t got his bonus? How would that have made them not look greedy? The banks don’t get it. Al Murray, comedian, 43
@mrchrisaddison Things that are now in my possession again: (1) My wallet; (2) my keys. Things that are not: (1) My dignity; (2) my self-respect. Chris Addison, comedian, writer and actor, 40
@RowennaDavis Can someone explain why we tax work based on effort, but we don’t tax winnings based on luck? Just filling in my #taxreturn @HMRCgovuk Rowenna Davis, journalist and politician, 26
Follow us: @EpigramPaper
Cast your minds way back to 2004 when chip and pin was introduced to the nation as a safer, faster way to shop on plastic. Over the past eight years, this system has revolutionised our shopping experience, meaning that now fraudsters only need memorise four digits instead of a person’s entire cursive style in order to gain access to the fortunes of others. It has also led to a rise in the number of automated machines, meaning that we no longer have to deal with lowly cashiers and car park attendants. Or so I thought. Last weekend, an eerie quietness not seen since the Dark Ages fell on the High Kingsdown estate as whispers spread that the card machines and the cash point in the Co-Op convenience store on St Michael’s Hill were broken. Regulars to this shop will be aware of the ongoing drama with payment methods. For those who are less familiar with it, let me take you through the average person’s trip to the Kingsdown Co-Op. It starts with a hunger pang. The kind of hunger pang so painful, you know you won’t be able to make it to Sainsbury’s before you’ve started gnawing on furniture. All you need is a little bit of bacon or some milk to make porridge. ‘No problem’, you think, ‘I’ll just pop to the Co-Op’ - which is all very well and good until you realise that your rumbling stomach has not synchronised calendars with Co-Op’s opening hours. Longterm residents in these parts know that if you haven’t got milk in the fridge on Saturday night, there will be a long wait until the Co-Op’s automatic doors finally open at noon the next day, only for you to find that they haven’t yet had their milk delivery. After realising that an overpriced pint of skimmed milk is better than nothing, you traipse around the store, picking up whatever bizarre items happen to be reduced that day (ice cream syrup, anyone?) You are then faced with a dilemma: do you march straight up to the beaming cashier, or avoid their glazed expressions and questionable social skills and wait half your life to use what they have the temerity to call ‘The Fast Lanes’ (also known as self-service machines to the uninitiated). The queue for these machines is often 20-deep, usually due to the fact that one of the terminals has become overwhelmed, trying to add up how much you’ve spent so far, whilst screaming at you that your newspaper costs TWO POUNDS (pause for dramatic effect) TEN PENCE. Once you finally make it to a working terminal, your eyes fall on a hastily printed sheet of A4 declaring that payment is either cash or card only. Needless to say, you won’t have the payment method du jour in your pocket. This involves an embarrassing abandonment of your transaction, casting those in the queue behind you into a confused rage, as you lope off to the cashier you had originally tried to avoid, just so you can pay. As you wait your turn behind a man holding a tube of toothpaste and some bleach, you eye up the potential till talent. Cashier number one is a lady who is far too old to be wearing the neon butterfly clips she proudly displays in her cropped brown hair. Last time you were here, she scolded you for removing your card too quickly from the chip and pin machine, which, as always, was running at a snail’s pace, and you had to repeat the whole sorry affair. Cashier number two shows more promise, until he is called away to deal with the Fast Lane drama you left behind. As you’re busy craning your neck to see how he’s getting on, another machine directs you to cashier number three. From behind his oval spectacles, he beams at you, greeting you with a friendly but halting ‘hello dear! How are you? Would you like a bag?’ He continues grinning as he slowly packs away your Tic Tacs, tomatoes and tampons without batting an eyelid, and you hurriedly hand over the cash and run home to satisfy your nutritional needs. It’s hard to convey just what an odd mix of people the staff in this particular branch are. A budding playwright would do well to take a trip there and observe them in their natural habitat. If Hotel California ran a chain of convenience stores, this would be it. Some of the staff, like cashier number three, never seem to leave. You go in on your way to uni and there he is, smiling over your Danish pastry. He is there again in the evening, when you dash in minutes before closing, standing upright, eyes open, but clearly asleep. And yet despite the crazy cashiers, the bipolar payment systems and the massive queues, we still go back. Just because it’s... well, convenient?
Pippa Shawley
Epigram
06.02.2012
18
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Epigram
06.02.2012
Culture
Editor: Zoe Hutton
Deputy Editor: Hannah Mae Collins
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deputyculture@epigram.org.uk
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Death of the Kodak moment in a digital age As a photo giant files for backruptcy, Imogen Rowley asks whether our memories are being traded for instant gratification The age of the megapixel is well and truly upon us. Aperture, grain, emulsion: ask your average student about any of these wonders of film photography and you’ll be met with a blank stare, a dribble. For most people, their ventures into photography begin and end with the silver circle on the back of their iPhone, or the banged-up Fuji with a broken lens cap that they take on a night out. And why not? Digital photography enables us all to snap away hundreds of times and more or less guarantees that at least one is going to turn out decent. We can delete the ugly shots or the drunken photo of someone’s armpit. Why bother agonizing over composition when you can just have a look on your little screen and do it again? The last fortnight saw the 133-year-old photography powerhouse Kodak file for bankruptcy protection. It’s a sad irony that Kodak, the company behind the creation of one of the first ever digital cameras back in 1975, ultimately suffered their demise at the hands of their pixellated brainchild, preferring instead to focus their attentions on their first love, film. Having experienced our last ever ‘Kodak moments’, and about to forever assign our rickety film cameras to the dustbins of ebay, we are duty bound to question the role of film photography in an age of app stores and autofocus. Does the death of Kodak signal the death of film? Our photographs are our memories. We want to be able to sit down and show our grandkids how gorgeous we were many moons ago and be met with the same dubious stares we gave to our own grandparents when they
A Student Perspective
Chloe Headdon, third year English student. “Ponies in Dartmoor. I find film photography a much more interesting medium than digital: it can be tricky under pressure, and punishes you if you get it wrong, but a good shot is satisfying in a way that digital can never match.”
Lydia Greenaway, second year Philosophy student. “The character of a film photo - the depth, tones and bokeh - has much more personality than those produced digitally. Perhaps having to take care with every shot makes it more precious, and more rewarding.
showed us pictures of “the good old days”. We don’t want to sit and flick through a Facebook album of drunken Freshers photos and conveniently forget to mention the ones we’ve already de-tagged. There’s no sentimentality in that. While it may be great to be able to
easily share our photos online with people all over the world, regardless of whether they care or not about our cheesy holiday snaps, there’s nothing like fingerprints on a glossy 7”x5”, or rediscovering an album you’ve long forgotten about. Film is personal.
Ceilidh Graham, third year Maths student. “Glastonbury Festival, 2011. I took one photo with the fisheye lens and then another with the normal, as a double exposure. There’s a sort of ceremony that surrounds film photography - like loose leaf tea and vinyl. I think that’ll save it from extinction.”
Louise Burfitt, third year German student. “A balmy summer’s day from a dock on an Italian lake. Its timeless black and white tones remind me that there is nothing so nostalgic as sifting through tangible, glossy photographs of one’s childhood.”
Digital photography has, for most of us, removed the art behind capturing a good image. People expect to take bad photos, and they don’t care. It’s made us lazy. There’s a convenience to digital cameras that’s far more appealing to most people than the skill and
care it takes to develop your own image, the not-knowing what surprises await you in the darkroom, the romantic qualities of a negative compared to a picture on a computer screen. How many of us bother to print out our digital snaps? Dump them
in ‘My Pictures’, upload the embarrassing ones of your mates to Facebook and away we go. Forking out a fiver that could otherwise be spent on your Syndicate entry fee (oh please) or your Sainsbury’s Basics ready meals for the week, for a roll of film that only takes 36 photos means that you’re less snap-happy and are more likely to think, frame and construct your photos as pieces of art rather than as little more than a bunch of megabytes. Like Gameboys, blackrimmed glasses and everything uncool that goes full circle and becomes cool again, film has seen something of a revival amongst the hip and trendy in recent years. iPhone apps such as the ever-popular ‘Instagram’ turn our casual shots of Starbucks mugs and fairy lights into vintage masterpieces that just scream ‘Look how cool I am!’ in your friend’s faces. It seems many of us still see the attraction of dreamy film photography, of light leaks and Polaroid borders, but can’t be bothered to spend the time and money obtaining it for real. We’re missing out on the charm and organic pride felt only by film photographers. Analogue is more than just a cliché. Before you throw away your Kodak film just yet, watch out for the growing movement of ‘Lomographers’, fighting to preserve the beauty of analogue photography for everyone. Step away from your digital camera! Don’t know your 35mm from your Instax? Your x-pro from your fisheye? Lomography aims to spring film photography into the 21st century, providing all the tools you need to get the effects you always thought were nothing more than settings on your phone.
We’ll take Bristol: Mshed exhibition captures a decade of glamour AN EYE FOR FASHION: NORMAN PARKINSON 1954 - 1964 MShed, Bristol Until 15 April 2012 Cost: £4/£5
magazines, such as Harper‘s Bazaar and Vogue. Various works, taken by Parkinson from 1954 until 1964, are now being displayed at the MShed. The photographs are witnesses of a past era, allowing us to access the vibrant and exciting world of the 50s and 60s. His images revolutionized the way in which women were portrayed; instead of placing them in a static, rigid studio-based environment, Norman Parkinson captured them in a dynamic, mostly urban setting. While walking around the exhibition space, you come
across black and white and coloured covers of magazines and photographs, which show women posing on the street, next to a building or a car. Similar to their dynamic surrounding, the women‘s poses and gestures adapt a more lively style. The vintage prints portray women in contemporary dresses and suits, wearing elegant and glamorous hats. The exhibition also features objects and designs of the period, like a brocade, evening dress or a wedding veil. Visitors can even spot a mint green Italian-style
vespa. The exhibition gives an interesting insight into fashion photography and the general style of the period. It gives us the chance to get a glimpse of what fashion photography looked like, and make us see what our parents might have worn back in the day. If you are interested in the lifestyle of the 50s and 60s, enthusiastic about films like To Catch a Thief or Breakfast at Tiffanys, admire the fashion taste of actresses like Grace Kelly, Audrey Hepburn or Sophia Loren, or just like
fashion and photography in general, you should definitely make your way down to the waterfront. Sabine Lang
Mshed
Situated next to Bristol‘s beautiful waterfront, the MShed holds a vast collection of objects that demonstrate the city‘s eventful past and present. Besides having a permanent display, the modern building
is also home to non-permanent exhibitions. At the moment the museum shows fashion photographs by British portrait and fashion photographer Norman Parkinson. Running from January 21 until April 15, 2012, MShed displays sixty vintage prints, which all belong to the large collection of the Angela Williams Archive, which holds the majority of Parkinson‘s works. Before and after the Second World War, the Londonborn Norman Parkinson has worked for well-known fashion
Epigram
06.02.2012
21
Human spirit on film Epigram meets Paule Saviano on his mission to capture the Blitz
Album: Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not, Arctic Monkeys
got to see Arctic Monkeys live in November last year, and as a fellow Yorkshire-person, their flat Northern vowels made me genuinely homesick. TV series: Gilmore Girls
Holly Close, third year English student
define the zeitgeist forming the background to, say, a painting. Yet the world of air raids, conscription and rationing – and even the shiny new world of the late 1950s – feels just as foreign as Hiroshima. Unlike previous portraits, the Coventry photographs incorporate the resolute cathedral ruins, the indomitable new one and the post-war modernist architecture we have now all learnt to despise, - all contributing to narratives of rebuilding, recovery and the present alongside the confusing cloud of the past. Whilst the photos are being developed, selected and printed, the project continues to expand. Hopefully, an exhibition of the photographs will soon be possible. More importantly, though, perhaps we will learn from this generation before the distance between us becomes too tangible. Rosemary Wagg
Book: How To Be A Woman by Caitlin Moran It’s a truth universally acknowledged that women can’t be funny, at least according to my good friend the Internet. How To Be A Woman is proof that women, and even more importantly feminist women, can be proper laugh out loud funny (I got some funny looks on the train) and talk about serious subjects like abortion, love and libraries, as well as wearing big hats and Lady Gaga jigging about in a German sex club. Caitlin Moran has since become one of my life icons, and I’ve lost count of the number of friends who I’ve forced to read the book. In fact, you probably
Rachel Schraer, second year English student Book: I Capture the Castle, Dodie Smith
Whitecube.com
then develop the images during post-production. Lighting is of particular importance, with artificial rain or dry ice often used to enhance a naturally uncanny scene. In creating what Crewdson calls ‘frozen’ moments, he has developed
a process akin to the making of a feature film. The effect is disarming and transportive - miles from the homeliness and security of their suburban contexts. Hannah Mae Collins, Rachel Schraer and Zoe Hutton
Back in the heady days of 2005, I downloaded ‘Fake Tales of San Francisco’ from Arctic Monkeys’ debut EP so I’d have
As a child who used to read in my wardrobe by torchlight (in the day time. In a house fully kitted out with electric lights), my 8-year-old’s slightly overactive imagination was completely captured by Cassandra and her romantic existence living in a crumbling castle with her erudite, but equally crumbling father, lovelorn sister, and mystically fascinated stepmother, who likes to commune with nature. I identified with Cassandra from the opening line, ‘I write this sitting in the kitchen sink’. Bookish and startlingly observant, yet naive and given to flights of fancy, she negotiates an Austenian world of financially savvy matches and social mores, presenting subtle and sophisticated observations on matters of the
something to chat about on MSN with a boy I fancied. It didn’t sit well against my 14year-old music collection of Pink and Destiny’s Child, and the boy (who’s now in a proper band) was not that impressed. I did start to genuinely love the lads from Sheffield though, and 2006’s WPSIATWIM lead me to improve my music tastes quite dramatically. ‘I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor’ became a staple at parties (with obligatory ‘dance like a robot’ moves) all the way up to my own 18th. I finally
heart with the cheery gusto of a Blyton character. Her world gave me an initiation into a painful, desperate love, and a longing for life that Hollywood could only dream of creating, and the pale blue cover of my well-thumbed (food smeared, bath dunked...) copy still gives me a rush of nostalgia.
“A comedy-drama about a mother and daughter who live in a small Connecticut town” probably isn’t the best premise for a TV series, but I could watch Gilmore Girls endlessly. All the characters are just the right side of kooky and the script is incredibly well-written, with a whole raft of pop culture references and an excellent soundtrack that, again, has vastly improved my taste in music. It saw me through my GCSEs and Alevels and I’ve continued to pore over episodes during the dark times of university essay period, like some kind of televisual comfort blanket.
National Theatre
September 2011, just before I joined Bristol as a postgraduate student. Paule, his partner Caro and I travelled to meet seven very warm individuals. ‘From Above’is a photography project that conveys more than language can muster. Still, before being photographed, each survivor spoke of their experiences. Whilst the stories from Japan and Germany had become in some ways very familiar, differences in culture, geography and language had preserved a protective wadding of separation. Hearing English people of my grandparents’ generation speak gave the stories a far rawer edge, despite the passage of 70 years feeling deceptively large. Disparities between our generation and the previous two appear heightened. Is this specifically characteristic of the last 100 years, or has it always been so? In history, 10-50 years or more will get clumped together when attempting to
Beneath the roses: Gregory Crewdson’s frozen moments A man standing beside his car in the dead of night. A pregnant woman meditating upon her swollen form in the half-light. A magazine-ad family gazing into the middle distance in cadaverous repose. In all their cinematic glory, Gregory Crewdson’s photographs are arresting portrayals of solitude and stillness, his characters ossified in moments of inexplicable unease. Interested in ‘inbetweenness’, Gregory Crewdson reworks the American suburb into an intricate stage-set against an beautifully eerie twilight backdrop. Operating on a grand scale, every detail of his photographs is meticulously planned and staged - a large crew assist on each shoot and
Whether it’s Sartre or Sweet Valley High, over the years we imagine you’ve racked up quite a bit of culture. So, in the style of Desert Island Discs, Epigram has asked two students to reveal the books, films, and albums that have shaped them should too (even if you’re not of the female persuasion).
Paule Saviano
Photographer Paule Saviano began From Above in September 2008 when he photographed atomic bomb survivors in Nagasaki, Japan. The project soon spread to Dresden, Germany, where survivors of the 13th February 1945 firebombing - immortalised in Kurt Vonnegut’s novel, Slaughterhouse 5 - joined in with their contributions. Paule explains that From Above is ‘covering war from the human side, not promoting sensationalism or politics. I approached the portraits as photographing the human spirit. In the history books there isn’t a human face…and not much is spoken about the civilian side of war, especially regarding civilians after the bombings.’ I became involved with the project when Paule, a good friend of mine, asked me to proof read and edit the English texts for a book comprising photographs and reminiscences from Japan and Germany. Correspondence of textual alterations from England to Tokyo via New York (where Paule is based) was nightmarish, but the book emerged as an elegant, cloth-bound doorstop. We began arrangements to bring the project to Coventry, which is twinned with Dresden due to its own devastating firebombing in November 1940. Its aerial obliteration was studiously mimicked for the Dresden bombardment, yet the cities emerged united in a programme of reconciliation, much of which is conducted through Coventry cathedral. Meetings with survivors occurred at the end of
A Culture In The Life Of...
my wardrobe), tweenage years, off my tits on stolen rum and Red Bull, like the Watford-bred neon scenesters and their
Band: Hadouken! On choosing my defining band, the temptation to pick something impressively edgy, or arty, was strong. The influence Ella’s earthy tones had on me from the cradle... the way Cab Calloway has
immortal poetry. That girl is an Indie Cindie, lego haircut and a polka dot dress. Boys, from the bottom of my 15year old self ’s Sharpied-up neon hi-tops, I salute you. Film: Garden State
always been an inspiration... But instead, for the sake of being totally, cringingly honest, I’ve had to go with the musical stylings of Hadouken!. Because nothing sums up my backcombed, glitter-painted, improbably accessorised (cassettes, Game Boys and house keys all featured prominently in my jewellery box, scrabble tiles and lego in
Not just because I used to fancy Zach Braff, a lot. Or because it features the line ‘Mum, he’s just a fast food knight’. But because it’s offbeat, touchingly awkward, brilliantly shot, and reminds me of sitting in my friend’s attic listening to The Shins and talking endlessly about our lives and underdeveloped loves. Also, I challenge you not cry at the bit when Natalie Portman catches Zach Braff’s tears in a cup. Sounds weird but it’s fuckin’ beautiful I tells ya. And it’s worth watching for the soundtrack alone.
Epigram
06.02.2012
22
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Music
Epigram
Editor: Nathan Comer
Deputy Editor: Pippa Shawley
music@epigram.org.uk
deputymusic@epigram.org.uk
06.02.2012
@epigrammusic
‘I can only ever write about what I know’ Los Campesinos! singer Gareth opens up to Rishi Modha about bodies, beer and breakups - and cemeteries Los Campesinos! may one day come to be defined by the sound of twee-like euphoria that follows agonising buildup, present in the opening of ‘You! Me! Dancing!’, an early track re-emerging into public consciousness through its prolific use in recent Budweiser advertising campaigns. This isn’t the image that the band aspires to and their dedicated fanbase would likely vehemently disagree, but it’s not too far off the mark – though the twee description certainly is. Hello Sadness, Los Campesinos!’ latest record, like the beginning of ‘You! Me! Dancing!’ is an exercise in cathartic release following a period of unsettling tension; this time in lead singer Gareth Campesinos!’ life as opposed to within the sonic arrangements. Gareth explains that ‘the record is very much centred around a break-up and reacting to it – different stages of hatred, despair, attempts at reconciliation and reconciling things with yourself ’. The remit of this record; the exploration of anguish inextricable from emotional pain lies in stark contrast to the cherryade-fuelled parties, awkward dancing and pain
induced by sticking fingers into sockets that formed the basis for their earliest lyrics. It’s clear that seven-piece outfit Los Campesinos! have grown up and matured, and although their evolution has been gradual and publically displayed through their releases, little embodies their complete departure from purportedly twee roots quite so clearly as Hello Sadness does. Though sharing is something Los Campesinos! routinely engage in through extensive use of social media, be it the minutiae of tour meals or expounding feelings of hatred held towards Joey Barton, Hello Sadness opens them up to a whole new level of transparency. Gareth explains that ‘I can only ever really write about what I know - I admire a lot of songwriters who can think in a fictional manner, but I just don’t have the imagination to be able to do that kind of thing.’ Having gone through a break-up just prior to recording Hello Sadness, the immediacy of emotion is apparent in the lyrics with Gareth admitting that ‘I find it really difficult to sort of sit down and be like ‘ok I’m going to write a
song’ – when I do decide to write, it’s usually because I have to, things are getting late.’ Written in the midst of an emotional whirlwind, the candidness and brutal honesty inseparable from Gareth’s writing methodology lends remarkably raw power to the lyrics found in Hello Sadness. Their last release, Romance is Boring, was self-described as a record covering ‘sex, death, the body and football’, themes which re-emerge on Hello Sadness. ‘Obviously they’re themes that are always in the back of my head or whatever. I like repetition of imagery and ideas, and things from one song referencing something else that’s happened in a previous song. I like the idea that when we finish making music I’ll be able to piece all the songs together and see what bit applies to other bits and how it all fits together.’ Despite covering familiar territory, the imagery finds itself in a completely different context on this record, making it more affecting than ever before. Nowhere is this clearer and more greatly amplified than in the heart-wrenching ‘To Tundra’, where the constructed image of bodies being taken to
water seamlessly marries two themes prevalent throughout Los Campesinos!’ records. Morbidity appears to be a constant theme in Los Campesinos!’ material; Gareth explains that ‘without realising it, I’m always preoccupied with the human body, the destruction of the human body.’ However, working parttime at a graveyard for Gareth
“
I’m preoccupied with the destruction of the human body
”
is somehow distinct from this unconscious obsession. ‘When I’m working at the graveyard it doesn’t seem like a morbid place. It’s just a really pretty place with lots of symmetry from all the gravestones. No one visits most of the graves there, they’re really old and unattended. It feels nice that if it wasn’t for us cutting the grass down there it’d just be horrible. I see it as a happy place, it’s one of my favourite places to be; you can just listen to music and shut yourself out. It’s really peaceful.’ It seems as though full immersion in what
is difficult for others to cope with leads to a form of release for Gareth, venting of feelings paving the way towards inner comfort. The lyrical directness of Hello Sadness embodies Gareth’s attempts to find peace in the face of post-breakup angst, allowing ordinary life to resume without being unbearably plagued by the issues explored. Greater commercial success isn’t out of the question for Los Campesinos!; a recent appearance on The Late Show with David Letterman manages to apex a previous claim to fame of ‘having our band poster appear on The Inbetweeners’ and the public awareness of Los Campesinos!’ music is exponentially increasing due to wide exposure through inescapably ever-present Budweiser advertising campaigns. Gareth can’t help but beam with pride as he explains that with ‘a lot of people I know from home, football and stuff, it’s kind of difficult to explain to them that being in a band is what I do for a job and even though we’re not famous it’s not a hobby. It’s a proper thing and we’ve been doing alright for ourselves. You can’t really
explain that unless you have a Budweiser advert.’ It’s a far cry from Gareth’s earliest attempts to promote the band, being afflicted by the often debilitating burden of Football Manager addiction, he explains that the Sports Interactive community forums were ‘the first place I ever posted a message about our band, before any music site, that’s where I went to do it.’ Although Los Campesinos! have matured, with Budweiser and greater public exposure on their side they’re not yet done growing, with a committed fanbase likely to expand further. The project is only just beginning, with Gareth proclaiming that ‘we’re more excited than we ever have been.’
‘Hello Sadness’ is available on Wichita Recordings now
Epigram
06.02.2012
24
The acid house survivors
Eden Davis meets the ‘techno crypto Marxist-Leninist electro’ artists Alabama 3 On the crest of their forty-ninth LP Shoplifting 4 Jesus, grubby trans-pop acid-evangelists and OST artists Alabama 3 are twelve dates into their latest trawl of the provinces. Their seamy meld of acid-house dance and blues - which they describe with admirable conviction as ‘techno situationist cryptoMarxist-Leninist electro’ (pretty persuasive) – bought them the early acclaim of press, public and, perhaps tellingly, Irving Welsh alike. Taking the squalid gospel borrowings of their forebears in the Happy Mondays and Spiritualized to infectious, dirtier degrees, it’s hard to think of a more singular survivor of the 90s dancepop school than Alabama 3. But survive they have; so how have the band contorted that crypto-Marxist-Leninist agenda and their reasonably niche output to this perilous present of collapsed record sales, right-wing premiership and their own formidable (and, we can probably safely surmise, artificially accelerated) ageing process? If the typically politicized snarl of their last long-player doesn’t volunteer an answer – which, with trad. blues standards like ‘Facebook. con’, ‘Who The Fuck Is John Sinclair?’, and ‘I Blame Kurt Cobain’, it probably does – founder and leading man Larry Love is quick enough to offer them himself. ‘Going around the country, you can definitely tell. The general mood of the country has changed. You can feel that going around on tour.’ Love is pacing the somewhere-upstairs of Bristol’s O2 Academy in anticipation of this evening’s quickly thronging gig. He is meditative. ‘I was in Brighton last night. Friday night and it was dead. Something general has changed in the country. I would ascribe that to an economic downturn, we’re that lucky people are still coming to the gigs given how hard it is to have a night out.’ And given their very particular appeal, it is, and it isn’t surprising that Alabama 3 have left their contemporaries to fade off into the millennium while they gather renewed success, and a sustained concert-
Where are they now? Early 2000s talent show Popstars set a precedent for a decade of shows allowing fame-hungry youths their 15 minutes of fame. Pippa Shawley investigates what happened to pop pioneers Hear’Say
In 2001, the face of British music changed forever. Following a series documenting the search for the next big thing, five people of varying physical appearance and musical aptitude emerged as the winners of ITV’s Popstars. For the generation who first dreamt of ‘Nasty’ Nigel Lythgoe promoting them to fame and glory, ‘Bridge Over Troubled Water’ will forever be associated with a room full of nervous wannabes, gathered around a piano in a fluorescent-lit conference centre. The TV show was a smash hit, at one stage transmitting to 12 million viewers. Sadly, for Hear’Say, the winning group, success was not to last. After releasing two albums in the space of 18 months, the band split and moved on to bigger and brighter things. Or did they?
going audience. After ‘Woke Up This Morning’ was picked up for the theme tune to The Sopranos, the band, known for miserable legal reasons stateside as A3 – ‘two-page spread’ to fans and insiders – were briefly signed to mammoth Geffen Records. The drop came typically pretty swiftly, but with interest in the band relatively undiminished, what coping mechanisms have Alabama 3 developed to keep on in a climate where their unusual kind is less and less marketable? ‘I’m no statistician, but we’ve
had several peaks and troughs, with a certain amount of variation. When we were signed to Geffen, that was originally a peak, followed by a steep decline – a rapid decline. We’re entering a new chapter now, we’re starting a label and doing everything for ourselves. So, it remains to be seen what that will bring, but whatever point you are on the graph, we’re still making music, doing shows and going out and getting pissed.’ This LP and the last were released on their Brixton based Hostage Music Ltd. ‘We have always’, Larry brings out, ‘been a Brixton band’. This is where the band formed, seized by the idea of a cross-over between contemporary acid house and the drawling country music which forms the other half of their distinctive sound. I suggest more specific influences like the similar, though gentler fusion along these lines worked by their antecedents the KLF. Larry is not forthcoming, and voices his reluctance to name specific influences. ‘For libel reasons if anything’, he suggests. ‘Whatever you call
us, you couldn’t call us bland. But we borrow from the whole history of popular music, especially on this album, there’s a lot of what you could only call blatant theft.’ The band are hugely derivative, and like enough of their kind wear it without reserve. They are a particularly innovative figure in the continuum of sleazy, pointed blues, and they have succeeded in their decade and a bit of rock ‘n’ roll in not sounding exactly like anything else. Still a dead impressive live spectacle and still creating in the same vein of wiry country & electro, Alabama 3 have at least the near future pretty mapped out.
‘Shoplifting 4 Jesus’ is available on Hostage Music
Hear’Say’s lead singer had a turbulent career following the band’s demise. Kym Marsh became a regular feature in the tabloids during her marriage to Eastender’s star Jack Ryder. This partnership paved the way for Marsh’s future life in soap operas. In 2006, she joined the cast of Coronation Street, playing ballsy barmaid Michelle Connor. Since divorcing Ryder, she has found love with Hollyoaks actor Jamie Lomas.
Noel Sullivan was an understudy for the Welsh National Opera before being picked for Hear’Say. After the band broke up, Sullivan moved to America to host Simply Ballroom, before abandoning the celebrity lifestyle to forge a career in musical theatre. It has just been announced that Sullivan will reprise his role as Galileo Figaro in the West End production of We Will Rock You following its successful UK tour.
Myleene Klass disappeared into the vaccuum of classical music after leaving Hear’Say. During this period, Klass began to carve out a career as a television presenter, featuring on shows such as CD:UK, but it was her appearance on 2006’s I’m a Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! in that bikini that made her a household name. Since then, she has modelled for Marks and Spencer and has presented a range of television programmes.
Danny Foster has arguably had the least success since the band terminated. Despite taking part in a number of TV reality shows, Foster is now the lead singer of Motown and Soul covers group Danny Foster & The Big Soul Corporation.
Suzanne Shaw has been in and out of the spotlight in various role post-Hear’Say, from West End musicals to Dancing On Ice. She currently stars as Eve Birch in bucolic soap opera Emmerdale, and is married to DJ Jason King of JK and Joel fame.
Epigram
06.02.2012
25 25
Tea and turntables: it’s a Scruff trade
Alasdair Joyce chats over a cup of tea with Mr Scruff during preparations for his annual marathon set at Bristol’s O2 Academy To say that the advent of the ‘superstar DJ’ has been transformative of the UK club zeitgeist throughout the last two decades would be irrefutably an understatement. Formally underground jockeys have transformed their own sounds into high-production-cost, breathtaking extravaganzas,now seemingly preferring stadia to grass-roots clubs. But for Andy Carthy, stage name Mr Scruff, it’s more about finding that simple set-up to give him the maximum freedom to work his epic six-hour sets, rather than spending months perfecting a pre-rehearsed show. ‘It’s not really a stage show or a typical club gig – it’s something strange yet simple I’ve created myself made from aspects of other peoples’ nights, omitting the things I don’t like.’ And thirty years’ experience and success has certified his peeves with the scene, not limited to warm-up DJs playing hard music, strobe lighting, and bad equipment. ‘I like dark clubs. I like loud soundsystems and I like being shaken by bass’, Carthy reveals. ‘I’m pleasing myself and having fun. There’s not much to look at – I’m a forty-year-old balding bloke putting some tunes on. Have fun with your mates and gradually it’ll snowball into a really enjoyable evening.’ Carthy jokingly describes himself as a control freak,
wanting to personally take control of guests from the moment they come in through the door to the moment they leave. Speaking of his ten-year Keep It Unreal residency in Manchester, he recommends ‘a residency as a good foundation. With new faces every night you just end up doing the same thing, whereas playing to the same crowd you have to keep pushing it forward.’ Shorter sets, he says, means less esoteric sets. ‘That’s why I play all night, and what frustrates me about the festival gigs – you end up playing the hits and what you know works, rather than pushing forward with new things.’
“
I like mystery music... I like not quite knowing what’s going on
”
He is, of course, no stranger to Bristol, now approaching twenty years of sell-out gigs since his first at Blue Mountain in 1994. ‘I really like the Bristol temperament. I find that Mancunians get on very well with Bristolians as well - both have a really good sense of humour and a love of music.’ Finding his feet with the popping bass of Bristol subculture icons Smith & Mighty
and the pioneering trip-hop of Massive Attack, Carthy delights in spinning soulful homage to the diverse and profound styles that inspired him. ‘It’s nice to play these twenty-five year old Bristol records to a crowd who probably weren’t even born then. Reggae music and a love of bass run very deep in the local culture, very much in common with my own tastes.
I like mystery music. I like not quite knowing what’s going on.’ Scruff is no stranger to radio, with his own show of ten years being superseded by his studio work, which aptly reflects his self-described preference of ‘mystery music’, and deftly stitches a veritable smorgasbord of genres spanning jazz, triphop, afrobeat, and beyond.
His last album, Ninja Tuna, received critical acclaim, but since its release in 2008 a follow-up has yet to emerge. ‘I’m doing too many gigs! I’ve done most of an album – I’ll probably put out singles while I’m finishing with it, hopefully later this year. It’s the vocal collaborations that are holding it back, I’m gently badgering people…’ he tells
me, visibly excited to continue new projects with his peers from the Ninja Tune and Tru Thoughts labels - Quantic, Andreya Triana, and Roots Manuva, to name a few. The secret to his inimitable style? ‘Human elements,’ he explains.‘If I wanted technically correct music there’s plenty of musicians out there who play their instruments brilliantly – I’m not one of them, but I can make some quite wonky, intriguing music that has its own mood to it. Part of that is because I’m not coming from a perfectionist, flashy, “technical” music background. I’m keeping it a little bit wrong. “I really like the incessant repition of programmed music but I like a loose, human feel – its about keeping the balance, keeping mistakes in there.’ And what of his quietly booming tea business, with boxes of Make Us A Brew appearing in supermarkets, tea rooms and his own shows across the country? ‘You can think of some daft idea and it starts out very small, no agenda. The music and the gigs are very much under control now, so it’s nice to try other things where you’re out of your depth, make mistakes, and feel a bit stupid - but learning stuff and not getting stuck in a comfort zone!’
Lana Del Rey and the minefield of ‘authenticity’ It’s difficult to escape the bee sting pout of Lana Del Rey. Indeed, the Internet is awash with pictures of her sultry gaze, and numerous writers devote most of their waking hours speculating on the precise nature of the relationship between Lizzy Grant and Lana Del Rey. Are they merely alter egos, or is there something more sinister at play? Is it a symbiotically mutual relationship, or more of a parasitic one? Is Del Rey a spirit possessing the host of Lizzy Grant? Most importantly, will the truth shine any more light on the finale of Sherlock? The nature of Del Rey’s rise to hashtag dominance is noteworthy, seemingly coming out of nowhere (‘seemingly’ being the operative word here), to becoming one of the biggest names in pop music. Her second debut, Born to Die (reviewed in this edition of Epigram), is likely to be one of the most eagerly anticipated albums of the year, only one month in. Even David Cameron has professed to a liking of Del Rey’s music, a story that will surely only intensify the inescapable Del
Rey mudslinging – the idea of a Conservative engaging with popular culture seems to irritate many people more than the government policies themselves. Every increment of her remarkable ascent seemed so vast and meteoric that many felt something fishy was going on. And sure enough, the internet is ablaze with discussion of the divisive Del Rey.
Every aspect of the debate around Lana Del Rey – from discussion of her lyrical content to conjecture about her pout – ultimately comes down to a problem as old and as multi-faceted as music itself: the notion of ‘authenticity’. And it’s Del Rey’s perceived inauthenticity that’s the real polarizing aspect of her rise to fame. So is it this idea of Lizzy Grant cynically remarketing herself that makes people uncomfortable? In a recent article in the Guardian, writer Paul Harris writes that, with her cultivation of a stage persona, Del Rey is employing one of the ‘oldest tricks in the book’. Of course, he is right. David Bowie is the archetypal example, reinvention being the only constant feature of his career. Elsewhere, Tom Waits and Bob Dylan self-mythologize as beat troubadours and cowboys, while George Clinton and Lady Gaga would have us believe that they were beamed in from outer space. What Harris fails to recognise here is that this
idea of ‘authenticity’ does not come down to a mere question of identity. The creation of an artifice is integral to the core of all that makes rock’n’roll sacred, and only increases our fascination. The factor that makes people uncomfortable, however, is the implications of Grant’s reinvention. Far from being just a young talent pouting in front of a webcam propelled to stardom by the miracle of YouTube, the Grant/ Del Rey duality is a creation masterminded by a group of managers in a boardroom.
Here it is clear that this question of ‘authenticity’ comes not down to her persona, but the perception of her as ‘manufactured’. And what a distressing thought it is; one that highlights many people’s qualms with the music industry – record executives in double-breasted suits playing puppeteer to a young innocent, whom they see as a giant dollar sign – the clichés just keep on rolling. Of course, the truth is that authenticity in this sense doesn’t dictate whether
something or not is good, and vice versa There is a further question of authenticity, a largely performative one. But it is one that the majority of our assessments are made on, and it is a factor that has defined the flow of popular music since its inception. And unfortunately, it is difficult to precisely pin down. It may sickeningly be described as ‘that certain spark’ or ‘the X Factor’. It is more of a question of passion, a factor that can defy identity or ability. In short, it is the snarl of David Bowie, or the growl of Tom Waits, or the blood on the fretboard of punk artist’s bass. More than anything, this is what the endless debate of Lana Del Rey’s ‘authenticity’ should revolve around – does she have it? It is difficult to properly tell, judging from her recent performances. She has certainly captivated, and dominated the previous six months, but this final factor of authenticity could determine whether she will continue to dominate the next. Stephen Holt
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06.02.2012
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Reviews OLD IDEAS DELICACIES LeonardMobile CohenDisco Simian Columbia 29 2010 November 31 January 2012 Delicatessen
Songwriting veteran, poet and eternal ladies’ man Leonard Cohen returns to our stereos with Old Ideas, his long-awaited twelfth studio album. Longtime fans will enjoy sinking back into familiar themes of longing, love and loss, and if you’re a new listener you will be introduced to a seductive personality that will have you investigating his sublime back catalogue for more (in case you were wondering, anything with ‘songs’ in the album title is a good place to start!) Old Ideas begins fascinatingly, with Cohen experimenting with self-reference in the opener ‘Going Home’. He introduces us to “Leonard”, who is “a sportsman and a shepherd” and a “lazy bastard living in a suit.” Leonard “wants to write a love song, an anthem of forgiving, a manual for living with defeat”, something Mr Cohen proceeds to do over the next ten tracks with wry humour. Musically, the album treads familiar ground with Cohen touching on folk, pop and jazz with the help of an understated band and, of course, his iconic female backing vocalists. What separates Old Ideas from his previous albums most is the addition of the 12-bar-blues. In an interview with AFP, Cohen revealed that he had never before
DJANGO DJANGO Django Django BECAUSE 30 Jan 2012 Throwing together surf guitars, percussive coconuts, nonsensical lyrics and stomping beats, art-school Scots Django Django forge an at-times irresistible groove on this debut, introducing themselves as an early candidate to be 2012’s favourite quirky, dance-y flash in the indie-pan. There are some quality tunes here: ‘Hail Bop’ and single ‘Default’ are tightly crafted, glitchy electro-pop gems, and the drop into mellower tones works just as well, as on ‘Hand of Man’ and ‘Life’s a Beach’. Familiar touching points of The Beta Band, Egyptian Hip-Hop and Hot Chip make it accessible enough, while the band maintains a sound that’s gloriously hard to pin down. It’s as strangely original as anything else likely to be released in British guitar music this year. For a debut three years in the making though, it’s a bit disappointing to find it pulled together of material that’s already surfaced; ‘Skies over Cairo’, for example, made quite an exciting instrumental b-side to ‘Wor’ back in 2010, but feels unnecessarily tacked on as the penultimate track here. And sometimes, it feels like they’re trying to be a bit too otherworldly for their own good, certainly across the length of an LP. Eliot Brammer
BORN TO DIE Lana Del Rey Interscope 27 January 2012
felt like it was his right to sing the blues, but that now ‘somehow, that right was granted to me’. No-one, upon hearing his baritone subtly hitting those blue notes on ‘Darkness’, would deny him that right, especially considering that the septuagenarian had to file for bankruptcy in 2005 following the misappropriation of $5m from his retirement funds by a former manager. But anyone lucky enough to see him on his recent world tour will not have seen a bitter man, they will have seen a kind, charming man, a performer capable of bringing grown men and women to tears. One of the beautiful things about music as an art form is that even if a piece is not that original in style, as long as it is delivered passionately, people will like it. Cohen knows this – he knows it so well that he even acknowledges it in the title of the album – and this is why he has remained a consistently alluring figure throughout his sixty year career. As the eternally humble singer acknowledges in the album’s opener, he knows he’s “really nothing but the brief elaboration of a tune”. Tom Holcroft
BLUES FUNERAL Mark Lanegan Band 4AD 6 Feb 2012 After eight long years of seemingly endless side projects, former Screaming Trees frontman Mark Lanegan has finally completed his seventh studio album Blues Funeral – his first solo release since 2004’s Bubblegum. In many respects the album is typical Lanegan, full of satisfyingly dour, brooding, dark, atmospheric blues dirges with appearances from all the extended Palm Desert family including Josh Homme of Queens of the Stone Age fame, Alain Johannes (who also produced the album), and Jack Irons. With many of the songs pushing 6 or 7 minutes Lanegan seems to be venturing into new territory with his song writing – and unfortunately it doesn’t always work. On certain tracks like ‘Ode To Sad Disco’ and ‘Harborview Hospital’, Lanegan abandons his usual guitar driven sound in favour of synths and drum machines. While not necessarily bad songs on their own terms, these tracks have a tendency to drag on in places, and just end up being too incongruous to fit comfortably on the album. But ignoring its occasional incongruities, Blues Funeral does have a lot to offer. Just abandon tracks 6, 9 and 12 and you’re left with a bona-fide Lanegan classic. Richard Gillies
So here we are: after weeks and weeks of catcalling and hairpulling by anonymous forum droolers, Lana Del Rey has released her (kind of) debut album. For a while, it was easy to forget that Lana Del Rey was actually a recording artist rather than some sort of virtual effigy to be publically slandered as an offering to the Internet deities. But sure enough, here we have it. And, despite all the fascinating build-up to its release and the representation of Del Rey as a kind of pop icon for the alt generation, Born to Die is surprisingly standard pop fare. While ‘Video Games’ turned out to be something of a YouTube hymn, bside ‘Blue Jeans’ was all swaggering fragility and Timbaland-style minimalism, and it is this atmosphere that is largely represented by Born to Die. The production, minimal and repetitive, is impeccable throughout, with a hip-hop flair that very almost justifies Lana’s claims of being a ‘gangster Nancy Sinatra’. While it may be little more than a pop sound, it certainly is a distinctive pop sound that Lana Del Rey has had carved out for her. There are quirks of production here that will come to be considered as ‘unmistakably Lana Del Rey’ - such as the recycled
PLUMB Field Music Memphis Industries 13 Feb 2012 “Sometimes I doubt your commitment to Sparkle Motion.” After their hiatus, their frequent talk of releasing no further albums, their disillusionment with maintaining the Field Music ‘brand’, it may seem that this peculiar experimental pop-rock band have no desire to make music. Instead, the Brewis brothers are simply out to make what they themselves call music and not simply indie rock, resultantly setting themselves apart from typical rock bands, and even typical songwriting conventions. Clearly drawing inspiration from Kate Bush (‘A Prelude To Pilgrim Street’), Stravinsky (‘Ce Soir’), and especially The Beatles (throughout), Plumb succeeds in reaching a dynamic range without ever sounding claustrophobic or forced. The melting-pot of ideas is mixed with such subtle grace so as to not overload with disconnected, disconcerting flights of fancy, instead, leaking out with a multi-coloured musical fluidity. The casual pace the album takes allows deep inhalation of the hazy, lazy vocals and sweet melodies. ‘So Long Then’ sounds like part of the score to Eternal Sunshine Of The Spotless Mind, a soft tale of loss, remaining memorable enough to float about in memory for a while afterwards. Luke Swann
Americana stock voices echoing low in the mix. And that voice. Smoky, nonchalant and (notably) vibrato-free, it very well reflects the bruised innocence of her lyrics. Regarding these lyrics, it is difficult to flesh out the motivation to their content. One possibility is that Del Rey uses layers of irony to highlight sexism and female subservience somewhat inherent in pop music. Another, more depressing option is that she actually wants to sing about being willing to change and do anything for her emotionally abusive “old man”. Whatever the case, the lyrics invariably veer too close to pop cliché to make comfortable listening. All of Del Rey’s distinguishing quirks notwithstanding, Born to Die is very much an average pop album. While Video Games/Blue Jeans was a spellbinding release, few tracks on the album replicate what made those songs so special. In the end, it is when Lana Del Rey sounds least like Lana Del Rey that she is at her best - notably on ‘Millionaire Man’, where her smoky croon is more reminiscent of Julie London. Elsewhere, it’s merely just posture and pouts. Nathan Comer
PARALYTIC STALKS of Montreal Polyvinyl 6 Feb 2012 For Kevin Barnes, the talismanic force behind of Montreal, ‘creative control’ has always just been something PR guys and journalists talk about, and although their often abrasive musical style may have hindered mainstream success, it appears that compromise is still off the agenda. Many songs on Paralytic Stalks - their eleventh full-length - cover love, loss and despair, but Barnes and his ever-changing line-up still seem to be pushing the boundaries of psychedelia, nostalgic electronica and art-rock (whatever that means) after so many years. The trademarks remain: the lyrics of ‘Spiteful Intervention’ and ‘Dour Percentage’ would bring even the most optimistic among us to question the point of everything but against a musical backdrop of fairground sounds and upbeat synths, it’s difficult not to hum along. Their eighth fulllength, the outstanding Hissing Fauna, Are You the Destroyer?, released in 2007, perfected this art of musical juxtaposition and while ‘Stalks’ never quite reaches those heady heights, it is a welcome addition to an impressive back catalogue and a strong psychedelic album in its own right. Gareth Davies
Film & TV
Epigram
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A searing directorial debut from Fiennes CORIOLANUS Director: Ralph Fiennes Starring: Ralph Fiennes, Gerard Butler, Vanessa Redgrave
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Charting the fall from grace of the Roman General Caius Martius, Ralph Fiennes’s directorial debut, Coriolanus, is a stark and brutal interpretation of the lesser-known Shakespeare play of the same name. The film retains the bard’s prose, distilling it down to two hours in length, but relocates the action to a near-contemporary timeframe. Filmed in Serbia, Coriolanus avoids affiliations with recent conflicts in the Middle East, recalling instead the warzones of the Eastern Bloc but, regardless, it’s hard to imagine anything more relevant to current world events. This is a wartime drama for the modern age, with claustrophobic urban battlefields, the calculation of politics, and the ever present gaze of the media. The setting
is so current that Jon Snow himself appears as a newscaster, interviewing two experts in verse. The success of any modernisation such as this depends on finding a way to bridge the gap between the archaic language and the contemporary setting in a way that seems natural. In Coriolanus, this is achieved perfectly; from televised public appearances, to hushed conversation in the privacy of state rooms, the contextualisation of the dialogue is perfectly organic, making sense with both text and setting. Though it takes some time to adjust, the Shakespearean rhetoric proves a welcome change from the normal fare of war and action films too. The complexity of the script does mean that Coriolanus requires a certain amount of concentration to fully grasp; there are no slack lines here, and the plot is intricate. Thankfully though – as with any Shakespeare interpretation worth its salt – good acting aids
understanding. Fiennes himself is the star of this piece as well as its director, and is superb as the titular character. Coriolanus is not an easy character to empathise with, but Fiennes gets under his skin and – for all his faults – makes him seem human, if not humane. Whether
as a blood covered soldier in the field, decorated war-hero, or bearded exile, his is a palpable presence in every scene, and his intensity is terrifying in parts. The supporting cast is by no means eclipsed however, and each performance – no matter how small - shows intelligence
and an awareness of the subtleties of the text. RSC alumni undoubtedly shine in this respect. Brian Cox as Menenius is fantastic, navigating his part with complete naturalism and ease. Vanessa Redgrave too deserves mention; she invests her military matriarch Volumnia with understated authority and wisdom, and her commitment to the character of a mother unfazed by the danger her son faces is admirable. Gerard Butler is a pleasant surprise too, giving a thoughtful performance as Aufidias. Such multi-layered performances make for a thought-provoking film; the actions of the characters are not made explicitly right or wrong, and the audience is left to assess for themselves the relative fault of each player in the tragedy that unfolds. The cinematography is extremely well-executed, and the naturalism that Barry Ackroyd has previously brought to films such as The Hurt Locker further strengthens the contemporary setting. The battle scenes in particular – though scarce – are
brilliantly realised; gritty and realistic, vividly evoking the horror of a modern warzone. In the more static scenes, inspired variations of angle and style provide welcome visual interest. Approaches as diverse as hand-held camera to House-of-Commons style fixed point CCTV ensure that this is a film just as interesting to watch as it is to listen to. One thing that is noticeably lacking is a musical backdrop, which is near non-existent aside from occasional abstract ambience. It is a brave choice. Emotive musical guidance may well have compromised Shakespeare’s language. Its absence serves to intensify the nervous atmosphere of the film. Coriolanus is gruesome in parts and intense throughout. Combined with the dense and complex script, this makes it a film that is not exactly easy to watch. Yet watched it should be; it may turn out to be a film that is admired rather than enjoyed, but this is an astonishing piece of cinema nonetheless. Joseph Richomme
Commercial Cameron ruffles feathers
Anouska Wilkinson investigates the fall-out in the aftermath of David Cameron’s ill-judged comments on the UK film industry championed across the global market with releases including Harry Potter, The Inbetweeners, Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy, and low-budget yet critically acclaimed films, Shame, Wuthering Heights and We Need to Talk about Kevin. Continuing, building and capitalising on this achievement was evidently an intrinsic focus of the review panel, chaired by Lord Smith, former Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport and including a host of industry experts: Julian Fellowes and Channel 4’s Tessa Ross to name but two. The new proposal contains 56 recommendations for ministers, the BFI and the industry to give greater support to UK filmmakers. Concern for the encouragement of smaller, independent films was reassured as Lord Smith advocated support ‘for the widest possible range of movies, from overtly commercial to overtly arty and many in between’. Following the abolishment of the National Film Council this proved a heartening sanction for the diverse sector that although creating less revenue is equally valuable and appreciated by audiences. Prominent among the report’s other initiatives was the concentration on enriching
film education to develop the next generation of audiences and filmmakers. The policy stated: ‘Unlike other art forms – literature, theatre or music for example – film has yet to find its rightful place in education and in lifelong learning programmes’. The foresight of the review does not merely focus on gaining immediate commercial revenue for our economy, but creating a sustainable proposal that will aid the growth and artistry of British film enduringly. The reviews recommendations were driven towards the cohesion of the film industry under a single banner and placing it at the heart of UK culture. One such ambition was to broaden access to films in remote and rural areas by providing equipment and facilities to local film societies and community halls. ‘There is something about the big screen experience that is very different from sitting in your living room in front of the television’. Focused on endorsing an increase in audiences, the review sets about increasing the appetite and respect for the film industry as a flourishing art form, and one with which a huge proportion of the population actively engage. Lord Smith is instigating the launch of the British film
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David Cameron’s blithe comments that the British Film Institute should support ‘commercially successful films’ prompted the escalation of a media ruccus that left the filmconscious both indignant and rather skeptical about what the government’s new film policy would entail. Director Ken Loach publically criticised Mr Cameron’s approach declaring: ‘Success can come at all levels. You don’t have to be a blockbuster to be successful’. He added that it was difficult to predict commercial success and funding should go to a ‘wide variety of projects and people’: ‘If you knew what was going to be successful before you made it, we’d all be millionaires.’ Thus, it was with apprehension that the review, ‘A Future for British Film: It Begins with the Audience’, was received. As it turns out, Cameron’s comments were mercifully incongruous with incentives of what promises to be a thoughtful and astute proposal to unite the vibrant community, which both produce and support the UK industry, behind the collective ethos of the British film ‘brand’. 2011 was unquestionably a magnificent year for British film, flooded with artistic and commercial success. Britain
‘brand’ through a nationwide programme that promotes our homegrown output. The introduction of a British Film Week was another bid to help the industry capitalise on ‘a golden period’ of UK cinema. In a logical move, the review also called for Lottery funding to be used to ‘reward’ producers of box-office hits. For British producers, many of whom are in a permanent struggle to acquire adequate finance, this allows them to recoup funding from their successful films to assist follow-up projects. This incentive applies especially to
those who target distinctive audiences, enabling their ventures and creating lasting businesses. The emphasis was on a collaborative approach to the creative process. ‘We want to encourage joint working and sharing of rewards between producers, writers and directors … Success should be rewarded and reinvestment in further production should be encouraged’. Lord Smith also called for greater support from broadcasters by investing more in the screening, acquisition and production of British films.
While Channel 4 and the BBC have committed steady levels of backing over previous years, the report calls for both ITV and Sky to step up to the plate. ‘There are two doing very little to support British film’. Given that eighty per cent of all film viewing by British audiences takes place on television, the role broadcasters play is integral to getting films in front of British audiences. The British public can only wait to measure the effects of this insightful proposal as it is put into practice.
Epigram
06.02.2012
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Colston Hall brings silent cinema to life Luke Cridland reports on the gala show that marked the culmination of Britian’s biggest silent film showcase: Bristol’s Slapstick around the entire entrance hall, the full four floors of it, trying to apprehend this ‘thief ’. Instead of getting their drinks, handing in their coats, and you’d think most importantly going to their seats, everyone in the entire foyer either stood transfixed or avidly followed the haphazard chase. The robber hid as a lampshade, pretended to be a chicken, all five of them slid down an incalculable amount of banisters, and it completely enraptured the crowd. Oh, and the crescendo of the chase exited via Colston Hall’s main doors. Whatever people’s moods were prior to their arrival, they were certainly exhilarated for the show ahead now. It was comedic physicality in its most real form, and was a perfect opening gambit to illustrate silent comedy’s energy. The event was introduced and hosted by Griff Rhys Jones and it was clear from the start that Jones was more than just a budding enthusiast when it came to silent comedy. Not only did he really convey his love for the legends of this silent age but you could also sense how indebted he felt towards them. His enthusiasm was infectious and it rubbed off on the entire
Adam Johnson
For those of you who are unaware, Bristol’s Slapstick Festival clowned and joked its way back into the city from the 26th-29th this January. The festival is essentially a celebration of all things silly and ridiculous that comes with comedy, hosting events ranging from grand affairs to low-key film showings at venues across Bristol, including Colston Hall and the Watershed. This is the festival’s eighth consecutive year in production and it is to the credit of its organisers and loyal followers that when I ventured into Colston Hall for its Friday evening event - Griff Rhys Jones Presents: Silent Comedy Spectacular - it felt like the festival’s first ever opening night. Upon entering the Colston Hall I was immediately immersed in the true physicality of the genre and the love everyone there had for it. Whilst collecting my ticket I found myself hearing the whirring and busy-bodying of whistling and commotion behind me. I turned around in curiosity and found myself facing a group of actors performing a cops and robbers skit. But this was no half-hearted affair. The ‘plods’ were bumbling and stumbling
audience, including myself. The event itself comprised of three main showings: The Laurel and Hardy short The Finishing Touch (1928), Charlie Chaplin’s The Adventurer (1916) and the feature length The General (1926) by Buster Keaton. I was a little apprehensive at first, as I’ve never properly sat down and watched silent comedies before,
but as the proceedings opened with Laurel and Hardy, I found I joined in with the rest of the audience in whole-heartedly enjoying myself watching what was essentially two idiots who couldn’t build a house properly. Sure, the gags were simple, but the best are, and by the end credits, Laurel and Hardy more than proved their power as a
comedic partnership. It came as no surprise that Charlie Chaplin’s short was equally great, if not better. As the night unfolded, it became apparent just how visually skilled these comedians of a bygone age were: every stumble, every knock on the head, every reaction, every expression, was clearly rehearsed and timed
intricately to capture the comedy of the moment. The General was introduced as not just one of the greatest ever silent comedies, but one of the greatest ever silent films, so naturally I was more than intrigued. It did not disappoint. Jones told the audience before the film of how Keaton grew up on stage performing slapstick with his father and was thrown around without ever getting a scratch on his head, and it was this freakish near invincibility that propelled him into a career in slapstick. Although it did drag at times being a feature length silent comedy, as a whole, The General was a delight, perfectly encapsulating what silent comedies are all about – using expression and physicality to literally embody what it is to be funny. Even though it was a silent film-orientated event, from the bubbling chatter and uproarious laughter that filled and reverberated around the hall to the excellent live music performed by the Virtuosi and the Matinee Idles, there was rarely a silent moment the entire night, which, after all these years, is probably the best reception a silent comedy can get.
Trouble in Payne’s paradise Jowly Leo flatters to deceive THE DESCENDANTS
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Director: Alexander Payne Starring: George Clooney, Shailene Woodley, Amara Miller
Director: Clint Eastwood Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Armie Hammer, Judi Dench
Matt, despite his obvious difficulties, is not an easy character to empathise with: his all-too apparent wealth generates little in the way of real hardship. If it were not for Clooney’s performance, subtly imbued with moments of real pathos, the film would have felt completely empty. Payne sidesteps this issue of wealth and empathy with a well-placed opening voice-over from Clooney, summarised as: this may look like paradise, but every individual experiences the same loss and the same moments of suffering. Beautifully shot, Payne’s direction is at all times carefully measured and often sharply amusing. Much of the humour
stems from the often absurd nature of Matt’s predicament and his interactions with his daughters, both of whom are, typically, wise beyond their years. Despite this Payne’s film is guilty of moments of overindulgence on occasions, and it is these moments which ultimately let the film down. Alex is supposedly a wayward daughter, yet there is little real evidence of this. Matt is rather too genteel to be believable when he discovers his wife’s infidelity. Payne’s film is, essentially, for all its illusions, rather hollow, with little emotional gravitas to truly root its narrative. Siobhan Denton
As Leonardo DiCaprio lurches across the screen in this drama about one of the most important, influential and controversial men in recent American history, all you can think about is trying to stop staring at his prosthetic jowls. The critics were right, Leo’s bad make-up is just one big, bad distraction. Directed by Clint Eastwood, this biopic of FBI director J. Edgar Hoover (DiCaprio) covers his 48-year career during which he served seven presidents. Hoover’s questionable ethics, slightly unsettling relationship with his mother and contempt for anyone who looks ‘stupid like a truck driver’ creates heaps of potential for a fantastic, character driven political drama. Yet it feels as if Eastwood has tried to spread too much action over not enough screen time, while also assuming some knowledge of American federal history. What seems like a standard political drama takes an
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Alexander Payne has made a career directing and writing films centred on dysfunctional men: men who are unable to take responsibility for themselves or their actions, men who are ultimately directionless. Hawaii inhabitant Matt King (George Clooney) is one such man. A largely absent father, he is forced to answer to his responsibilities, whilst questioning his failings, when his wife is plunged into a coma after a speedboat accident. Through his wife’s absence, Matt realises the numerous troubles his two daughters are experiencing. His oldest daughter Alex (a wonderfully acerbic Shailene Woodley), an apparently troubled, substance-abusing 17-year old, is sent to boarding school when her parents can’t deal with her. Brought home by Matt when he realises the extent of his wife’s condition, Alex is baffled by her father’s oblivious nature, angrily informing him of her mother’s infidelity.
interesting turn when Eastwood dedicates a large portion of the film to Hoover’s alleged homosexual relationship with his deputy, Clyde Tolson, played by Armie Hammer. Although it has been denied by many biographers that there was any kind of sexual relationship between the two, this touching yet unorthodox approach to love is by far the best part of the film. DiCaprio takes a brave approach to recreating the unique character of Hoover, adopting his stance and unusual speech pattern, he dives straight in (to a make-up trailer, presumably). Both DiCaprio and Hammer are transformed into the older versions of
their characters and end up doddering around, furrowing their brows and generally being a little bit scary-looking. Whether DiCaprio is playing the young or old Hoover, his performance is not effortless (something which is actually quite unusual for him) and you are constantly aware that he is struggling to project the complexities of Hoover through inches of silicone. Liver spots and jowl-wobbling aside, the life of J Edgar Hoover offers up a promising film, but it is let down by bad make-up, a confusing plot and, as suggested by some critics, a desperate performance by DiCaprio to win that ever-elusive Oscar. Sarah Lyons
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06.02.2012
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BBC’s Birdsong hits all the right notes
Natalie Collins admires the first screen adaptation of Sebastian Faulks’ much-loved novel, a lyrical tale of love and loss from WWI
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Sebastian Faulks’ Birdsong is a novel implored for its sensitive yet emphatic depiction of love, masterly juxtaposed with a harrowing portrayal of the First World War. The ominous phrase, ‘All is fair in love and war’, is explored in this novel as a delicate expression of the jeopardy implicit within love. The complexity and popularity of the novel partially explain why it has taken just under 20 years for Birdsong to make it onto the TV screen. Screenwriters who choose to create adaptations of such momentous books face the predicament of trying to capture and preserve the essence of the novel, whilst simultaneously leaving scope for a creative imprint to ensure the adaptation is both authentic and original. Screenwriter Abi Morgan (currently receiving praise for writing Steve McQueen’s Shame) seems to have mastered this complex balancing act in her adaptation of Birdsong. The character in the novel is preserved through loyal dialogue and expert casting, yet the delicate direction and considered cinematography demonstrates the creativity of Morgan’s personal
interpretation of the book. By only presenting us with idyllic Amiens in 1910 and the barren trenches in 1916, Morgan has made the executive decision to stray from the original text, excluding the third component story of Stephen’s granddaughter in 1978. However, the engrossing portrayal of love and loss between the characters Stephen Wraysford (Eddie Redmayne) and Isabelle Azaire (Clemence Posey), provides enough depth; a further storyline would (given the time span of a TV programme) only serve to distract focus from the pivotal relationship. Posey’s elegant portrayal of
Isabelle captures an enigmatic beauty which is as soft as it is mysterious and distant. Yet the luminosity of Posey on camera does not overshadow her onset lover, Eddie Redmayne, who delivers an intelligent portrayal of Stephen Wraysford with a graceful poise. Redmayne captures the multiple and complex presentations of Stephen; as a gentle and pensive boy prior to the war, and then as a stern and vacant man during it. Redmayne’s ability to present an impermeable quality to Stephen that persists in spite of his callous change of character shows a remarkable commitment to embodying all aspects of Stephen as presented
in the novel. The incongruous representations of Stephen’s character from 1906 to 1914 prompt a desire to discover the cause of Stephen’s transformation, thus compelling us to keep watching. And it is a good job that we do, as the suggestion of romance between Isabelle and Stephen gradually progresses to a palpable erotic tension climaxing in a libidinous sex scene. Morgan’s aim was to ‘recalibrate what is sexual’ through visually suggestive shots of interlinked ankles and lingering glances, accompanied by dulcet musical interludes. These scenes succeed in
reminding us just how intoxicating small romantic gestures can be. The authenticity of their love, illustrated through tender shots of Stephen’s hand wandering tentatively over the nape of Isabelle’s neck, are touched with a foreboding sense of despair. In anticipation of their first sexual encounter, as Stephen paces towards the red room through darkened corridors, a disjointed picture is presented of Stephen alone being carried through a maze of trenches. The camera flits from scenes of shades of ivory skin grazing over each other to a crimson coloured Stephen awaiting his death. The
powerful contrast alludes to a sense of jeopardy in love, as in warfare. These visually stirring shots contain the implication that perhaps this will not be your conventional tale of “love conquers all”. These methods of suggestion illuminate the bleak landscape of war in the comparison to 1906 picturesque France. The cinematography of the programme is commendable; the grandiose Azaire Mansion enveloped in azure foliage, is held in stark contrast to the consuming grey of the trenches, allowing us to absorb fully the abhorrent conditions of war. The only escape from the relentless solitude and horror, for the audience and Stephen alike, are the sublime scenes in Amiens, tied together with soft piano playing and the suggestion that Stephen’s mind may be in the trenches but that his heart is somewhere else. The scenery, the acting, and an ingeniously written plot, combine together to form a complete televisual triumph. We can only hope that the concluding episode can match the expectation the programme has set for itself in this enchanting adaptation of a classic novel.
Reality TV: our nation’s guilty pleasure? As another Big Brother draws to a close, Jenny Garbutt questions whether our obsession with reality TV represents a national malaise
tv.uk.msn.com
Another year, another series of Big Brother. Whatever happened to, “This is the last ever series”? We shall never know. What is clear though, is that a demand still remains for reality television where a group of social outcasts, eccentrics and glamour models compete with each other for screen time over several weeks, whilst undertaking ridiculous and humiliating tasks, and getting naked as much as possible. Originally devised as a version of George Orwell’s ‘1984’, Big Brother is an old idea semi-realised for our viewing pleasure. The celebrity versions of Big Brother have the obvious appeal of watching famous people experiencing equal levels of humiliation, with the added pleasure of seeing what pjs Frankie Cocozza owns. When I say celebrity, I mean the accepted synonym of ‘people we have vaguely heard of hoping to boost their alreadyfailing career’; or ‘old names hoping for a comeback at any cost.’ Admittedly, the earlier Big Brothers were watchable due to the fact that housemates were actually representative of the population, and, their
romances, conflicts and quirks made for good people-watching. The ‘aim of the game’ was to win the cash prize by winning the support of fellow housemates and the public alike. Now, it seems as though the producers simply want to achieve as much controversy in the media as possible, and housemates view being on the show as a short cut to temporary fame. And yet, the majority of the population must, inevitably, tune in to watch, otherwise running another series would not be profitable. So what appeal remains? With many other semi-reality TV shows popping up every other week such as Made in Chelsea and The Only Way Is Essex, it would appear that the nation enjoys the mild escapism to be had from watching other people’s lives - or, alternatively, watching other people’s downfalls. There is nothing more effective at reminding you how good your own life is than watching those of others spiral rapidly downward – Jeremy Kyle has made a successful career based solely on this concept. Whether it’s watching the rich and beautiful live their
rich and beautiful lives and wanting to be like them, or watching stereotypical ‘Essex girls’ make a series of drunken poor decisions and being glad you are not like them, the television masterminds have got it covered. The nation’s every emotional need is satiated by a whole spectrum of real-life soap operas. But what does this need for escapism or self-reassurance say about our nation? Is the broken economy to blame for our growing appetite for reality TV, or is it merely that our natural tendency to observe and attempt to understand other humans has been made far more accessible by the relatively recent developments in technology? With unemployment rates high and rising, easy-to-watch trashy television may be just what we need. With the action/ crime genres also covered by classics such as Police, Camera, Action, we can have all the experiences of watching a new, exciting film at the cinema sat in our own armchair, for considerably less money. And with the unpredictability of human nature, some story lines you literally couldn’t make up,
so maybe novelty is the main attraction. The creator of Big Brother recently received a knighthood, and initially I was sceptical and a little annoyed. Surely knighthoods should be given to those who make great contributions to society, make pivotal advances in their field. But, taking the viewpoint that he has provided a nationwide therapy service, you could be persuaded that, in fact, the man fully deserves to be a knight of the realm. Saving hundreds of people from depression with their sad lives? Reducing the demand on NHS counselling services? What a guy. Ranting aside, realistically it is probably not wise to read too much into our new found love for reality shows. Yes, it may give insights into the psyche of the nation, but it is probably just a passing fad... a very lengthy passing fad. Who knows? In fifty years time, when we are watching Big Brother 78, presented by Davina McCall’s granddaughter, perhaps it will be wise to pull the plug. But for now, I think this is one guilty pleasure we can live with.
Epigram
06.02.2012
Science
Editor: Nick Cork
Deputy Editor: Emma Sackville
science@epigram.org.uk
deputyscience@epigram.org.uk
@epigramscience
Chemical pleasure you can’t measure From the Cacao tree to the chocolate box, Edith Penty Geraets looks at the pharmacology of the nation’s favourite confectionary Edith Penty Geraets Science Reporter
Valentine’s Day is fast approaching. The race is on to find that special someone to share it with. For those struggling for inspiration, Epigram Science has collated a few ‘chat-up’ lines for consideration*:
I wish I was DNA Helicase so I could unzip your genes. If I were an endoplasmic reticulum how would you want me: smooth or rough? Let’s go back to mine and titrate ‘til you reach your end point. You’re so hot you just denatured my enzymes. I wish I was adenine so I could get paired with U. Flickr: J. Paxon Reyes
After the fabulous gluttony of Christmas, the word ‘chocolate’ probably evokes feelings of guilt and disgust. Most of us are understandably sick of the stuff. The traditional declaration to ‘cut down’ may even have featured on your list of New Year’s resolutions. Considering the proximity of Valentine’s Day, who can predict how long this resolve will hold? Chocolate has always been surrounded by controversy, ranging from reports of serious addiction to concerns over links to acne, tooth decay and low nutritional value. Recent media attention has conversely promoted the medicinal benefits of chocolate. In September last year the Telegraph even went as far as to claim that ‘chocolate is as good for you as exercise’. Research conducted at Wayne State University in Detroit has indeed suggested that chocolate intake is associated with the improved health outcomes expected as a result of exercise. A warning to die-hard chocophiles though: the association is restricted to dark chocolate and has, to date, only been observed in mice. So what is fact and what is fiction? There is no hard evidence to say that chocolate aggravates acne or should promote tooth decay when combined with good dental hygiene. It is true, however, that cocoa butter contains saturated fat which can increase cholesterol levels and is therefore linked to heart disease. Over-indulgence may cause a variety of health problems, but then this is the case for any food, regardless of nutritional content. Of more than 300 known chemicals, probably the most important active component in chocolate is a chemical called epichatechin. This is from a class of compounds called flavonoids that have been shown to have anti-oxidant properties. Studies have shown that people
Your lab or mine?
with a diet high in flavonoids have improved cardiovascular health, as they are proposed to prevent fat-like substances in the bloodstream from oxidising and clogging arteries. There is also a link between flavonoid levels and the activity of nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is a molecule responsible for promoting vasodilatation widening of the blood vessels which results in lowering blood pressure. Interestingly, a study involving the Kuna Indians, a tribe from Panama who average a personal intake of around 35 cups of cocoa a week, found the population to have abnormally low blood pressure. Similarly, research conducted in 2006 demonstrated that the unprocessed raw compounds found in cocoa were responsible for improved vascular function in the elderly and also were of help to patients with type II
Systematic Error The Editors have been made aware of an error that appeared in print alongside an article of Issue 244 entitled, Who are the ‘Children of the Nineties’? Although the figure contained within the article was correct, the accompanying highlighted statistic suggested that only 1,400 mothers were originally signed up to participate in ALSPAC. The real number was 14,000. This was subsequently corrected in the article as it appears online. Epigram Science would like to apologise to all affected by the mistake.
diabetes. Does this mean we should all rush to empty the chocolate aisle of our local supermarket? Maybe not just yet. Chocolate is not the only source of this chemical; tea, wine, grapes and blueberries are also valuable sources. The extent to which chocolate is beneficial to health
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known chemicals can be found in chocolate is dependent on the type of cocoa and on the methods of chemical processing. High temperatures must be avoided to preserve high levels of flavonoids. Dark chocolate contains the highest levels of flavonoids, and uptake of the anti-oxidant epichatechin into the bloodstream is greatly decreased if consumed simultaneously with milk or as milk chocolate. In white chocolate almost none of the desireable flavonoids remain. This hardly seems fair considering that hot milk and cocoa are known to share a mug so very well together! Chocolate has been identified as an aphrodisiac and an antidepressant. There are also several stimulants contained in chocolate which increase chemical activity in the brain
and can aid concentration, although these are found in very small doses. Phenylethylamine, a relative of the amphetamines, has been identified, as well as caffeine and theobromine. Chocolate is also known to often contain anadamide - a neurotransmitter – which is produced naturally in the brain and normally degrades very quickly. It has been proposed that the constituent ingredients of chocolate may serve to inhibit and slow this breakdown of anadamide – the combined chemical cocktail is thought to be responsible for the ‘chocolate high’ experienced by many: that happy yet sickly feeling that leaves you wanting more. The most extreme claims have been made by researchers at the Neurosciences Institute in San Diego, California, who have suggested that chocolate could contain pharmacologically active chemicals with the same effect on the brain as marijuana. Rest assured though - there are no moves to criminalise the consumption of chocolate in the foreseeable future. So I say this to all the chocoholics out there: maybe we need not feel so guilty the next time we reach for a chocolate bar to satisfy our cravings. Aside from the extra calories, the presence of (dark) chocolate in our lives appears to be beneficial for both the body and mind.
You make my dipole permanent. If I’m DNA then you must be a restriction enzyme, because you give me sticky ends. If I were a strong acid, I’d fully dissociate in you. Would there be any resistance if I brought you ohm? You have 206 bones in your body. Want another one? You must be root 2 because you’re making me irrational. You’re so cool I’ve got to measure you in Kelvin. If you were a concentration gradient I’d go down on you. Lets convert this potential energy into kinetic. What’s the likelihood of finding my particle in your box tonight? I’d naturally select you any day. It’s a good thing you’ve got evaporative cooling, because I’m going to make you sweat. I’ve got my ion you.
*WARNING:
limited evidence of success, may require repetition to ensure a reliable outcome.
Epigram
06.02.2012
31
It’s not just about your genes any more Epigenetic research is revealing the extent to which our environment and life-choices affect the inheritance of our descendants Kaitlin Wade Science Reporter
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Everything we do everything we eat, drink or smoke - can affect our gene expression
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Australian geneticists Daniel Morgan and Emma Whitelaw made a very similar discovery in mice, where genetically identical mice had completely different fur colours. How to justify these findings? How was such variation present in genetically identical organisms? Further study revealed that, in each case, the differences lay in the epigenome. DNA is the fundamental basis
of life. It contains all our genetic information, providing the blueprint for each protein that makes us individual, from our eye colour to our fingerprints. The sheer amount of data there are around 23,000 proteincoding genes in the human genome - means that, if laid out, DNA could stretch many thousands of times the length of a cell. In order to cram this molecule into the cell nucleus the twisted double-helix of DNA is wound around a protective packaging of globular proteins called histones, and coils further and further until it forms the structure recognised during cell-division as a chromosome. To complete the sense of scale, there are 23 chromosomes in the human genome. Relevant ‘super-coiled’ sections must unwind for protein production according to the body’s requirements – the extent to which genes are made available determines the variability in expression seen in different cell types. Thus we have over 20 different cell types, each with exactly the same genetic code. It is now known that this multidimensional structure,
DNA coiled round globular histone protein
the epigenome, and the extent to which genes are available for expression as proteins, can be altered by the environment. Prior to 1999 it was presumed that the epigenome was wiped clean with each generation. The findings of Coen and others demonstrated that the epigenome within these plants and mice had been passed down through many generations,
Richard Wheeler (Zephyris)
In 2009 the scientific community celebrated 150 years since the publication of Charles Darwin’s famous book, On the Origin of Species. This text outlined his theory of natural selection, explaining how genes are passed down from generation to generation, adapting to environments through random mutations within the genetic code that occur over millions of years. History has not been so kind to the legacy of the French naturalist JeanBaptiste Lamarck. In a similar effort to explain biological diversity, Lamarck proposed that the actions of individuals alter the genetic inheritance of subsequent generations, a theory termed ‘inheritance of acquired characteristics’. The evidence appeared to support Darwin though. Natural selection was almost universally accepted. Genes determine who or what we become, only changing over many generations with very rare mutations. Lamarck’s
supporters were ridiculed. In 1999 Enrico Coen, a London botanist, and colleagues were looking to isolate genetic differences in flower symmetry between two distinct types of plant: one ‘normal’, the other ‘monstrous’. They realised that there was in fact no difference in the genetic code, yet the observed differences were transferable through generations. In the same year,
unaltered, due to historical environmental interaction. Lamarck’s hypothesis had been vindicated. Epigenetics focuses on applying this knowledge of the epigenome and geneenvironment interaction described as the ‘GxE’ paradigm to investigate various issues: the causes of disease, development disorders, intelligence, human
abilities and evolution. It is now understood that genes do not solely determine our development, but rather serve a dynamic role, in partnership with factors that include our diet, lifestyle and standard of living. The concept of epigenetic inheritance adds further levels of complexity, far beyond that which Darwin first observed and comprehended. Evolution is interactive and runs simultaneously on different parallel tracks. The outdated presentation of ‘nature vs. nurture’, painting genes and the environment as polarised developmental influences in our lives, is no longer relevant. Our surroundings alter our epigenome, producing specialised individuals, just as our actions mould the environment. As Professor Randy Jirtle, Director of Epigenetics and Imprinting at Duke University has commented, ‘everything we do – everything we eat, drink or smoke – can affect our gene expression and that of future generations. Epigenetics introduces the concept of free will into our idea of genetics.’
New lab will catch Olympics fraudsters Nick Reiss Science Reporter
Flickr: Ben Sutherland
Since the discovery of performance-enhancing drugs there have always been less-than scrupulous athletes seduced by the promise of a boost to their abilities. Prior to each Olympic event the International Olympic Committee – the IOC – publishes a comprehensive public report outlining the rules on antidoping, yet some individuals are still willing to risk the prospect of disgrace if caught. With London 2012 fast approaching, the issue has arisen again, not only in athletics but across the spectrum of Olympic sports. The Olympic and Paralympic Games are the pinnacle of athletic and sporting competition. 2012 sees the turn of London to host these top international athletes; 17,000 competitors and coaches will descend on the capital this summer in search of success and glory. The pursuit to win gold drives sportsmen and women to train harder and grow stronger, but unfortunately this same motivation tempts a small minority to cheat their way to victory. It is the constant fear of Olympic organisers that this great sporting event will be overshadowed by allegations of doping and athletes
giving themselves an unfair advantage. This month the London 2012 laboratory opened, in which all Olympic drugs tests will take place. The laboratory in Harlow, Essex will process over 400 samples per day for the duration of the games. 150 scientists will work day and night in the hightech facility in order to deliver the robust anti-doping testing that the games require. The integrity of the event, combined with its lasting legacy, lies
with the efficient and effective analysis that will take place at this site. Pharmaceutical heavyweights GlaxoSmithKline have been responsible for equipping the building and contributed around £20 million in order to make this a World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) accredited laboratory. Over 6250 blood and urine tests are due to be processed – the most ever attempted during an Olympic and Paralympic season.
The class of performanceenhancing drugs tested for varies widely, from simple painkillers to stimulants that allow the mind and body to perform at its optimum level. The most common types are the lean-muscle-mass builders such as steroids and growth hormones. These drugs have become especially popular with young professional and amateur athletes, and reports indicate that their use doubled in the five years prior to 2009.
The metabolites from the breakdown of anabolic steroids are detectable in urine for up to 30 days and can be monitored using a common analytical technique called gas chromatographymass spectrometry. Tetrahydrogestrinone (THG) is a steroid which used to be called ‘the clear’ as it was developed in labs in order to be undetectable to these normal testing procedures. In 2003 however a US sprint coach delivered a
sample of THG to the US AntiDoping Agency. This action led to a new, highly-specific test that was able to detect small quantities in urine. Another prominent drug favoured by longdistance endurance athletes is erythropoietin (EPO), a naturally-occurring hormone secreted by the kidneys. Injected forms of the hormone were the scourge of recent Tour de France competitions, and came close to jeopardising the reputation of the famous race. Increasing the level of this signalling molecule circulating in the blood promotes the increased production of red blood cells, leading to better oxygen transportation and higher rates of aerobic respiration. Thankfully the science of analysis has kept pace with those developing such substances, and EPO too is now easily tested for. The crackdown on cheating in sport continues. The pressing concern for the IOC will always be new, untraceable substances - companies and individuals intent on success will continue to synthesise drugs designed to beat the system. Considering the state-of-the-art facilities that have been put in place for this summer’s Olympics though, the chances of frauds prospering seem less likely than ever before.
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06.02.2012
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‘Fraudley’ back in the ring Tom Burrows Sport Editor
Wikicommons::Aforceone
knock Adams to the floor, all memories of the Haye contest will be erased. He would retire a satisfied and more importantly for him, popular and respected sportsman.
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In order to make people forget about the Haye debacle, Harrison needed one more fight
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But we don’t forget Audley. See, I was there in Manchester for that money-spinning, embarrassingly one-sided shambles of a contest. What occurred in the build up to
that fight, and specifically during the bout itself, cannot be forgotten. A shameful showing, it was billed as the biggest boxing contest since the ‘Battle of Britain’ between Lennox Lewis and Frank Bruno in 1993. Before the clash, Haye said that the fight would be as ‘one sided as gang rape’, while Harrison said ‘I’ll be the next heavyweight champion of the world. No doubt.’ It was such bullish talk that enabled the pair to take the public for a ride. The fight was labelled ‘Best of Enemies.’ Nonsense. More like you take £6 million and I’ll take £1.5 million. ‘Best of friends’ would have been more fitting.
David Stone Deputy Sport Editor In the run up to Euro 2012, Robbie Higgins, a Bristol graduate, is currently organising the biggest 5 a side tournament in the world, with the winning team getting a fantastic prize. Not only will they travel to Warsaw in Poland to play against a team of European legends, managed by Gareth Southgate, they will also enjoy full hospitality at one of the England group stages! There are going to be 78 tournaments around England with the winners going to Regional Finals, before having a Grand Final at the Emirates Stadium on the same day as
the Champions League Final in May. The tournament is called the Carlsberg Pub Cup, with the concept behind it that each team is affiliated to a pub or bar that serves Carlsberg. With the majority of University and Triangle places having Carlsberg there is the potential for quite a few Bristol Univeristy teams to get involved, especially with the great prize on offer. In Bristol the tournament kicks off at the Goals Soccer Centres in Bristol North on Sunday March 4th at midday, and in Bristol South on Sunday March 11th at 1pm. For details of how to register and more information visit pubcup.carlsberg.co.uk
The final will be held at The Emirates Stadium with the winners going to Euro 2012
Wikicommons:Tim Boyd
So Audley’s back is he? The man who conned a nation has recently confirmed that he will return to the ring on April 14. The 40-year-old Harrison will face Ali Adams in a 10 round contest at the Brentwood Centre in Essex for the International Masters heavyweight title. Yes, I have not heard of this either. You see, Harrison is a clever man. Desperate to restore his damaged reputation after the David Haye fight, he appeared on Strictly Come Dancing. Good old Strictly; a heart-warming programme hosted by ‘Brucie’ and watched by Grans all over the country, it even made Harrison seem like a nice chap. Audley’s difficulty at moving his colossal frame in time with the music, while his slender dance partner, Natalie Lowe, waltzed elegantly round the stage, drew affection from the viewing public. The first part of Harrison’s sly PR stunt was complete. Now for the second part. In order to make people forget about the Haye debacle, Harrison needed one more fight. A final, victorious swansong with which to end his career. A bout to restore his reputation and boxing credentials. Hence this fight with Adams. Harrison believes that if he can
‘A-Force’ was in no physical state to be competing for the heavyweight championship of the world that night. It was clear from the moment he removed his glittering robe to reveal his lumbering frame that he would be no match for the athletic ‘Hayemaker.’ Sure enough, after two cagey and uneventful rounds, Haye finally put Harrison out of his misery by knocking the woeful fraudster to the floor. Audley had not even thrown a punch. I think most people would happily have dodged Haye for six minutes before taking a flurry of punches if it meant pocketing a million quid. The pathetic showing marked a new low in boxing’s history. This month Muhammad Ali celebrated his 70th birthday. One dreads to think what ‘the Greatest’ made of such a woeful event. It was a far cry from those famous bouts, the ‘Rumble in the Jungle’ and the ‘Thrilla in Manila’, and demonstrated the demise of the sport as a spectacle. It is a travesty that if our generation wants to watch classic fights, it has to do so on crackly old videos or documentaries. So no, ‘Fraudley’, this last fight won’t save your reputation. What happened that night in Manchester was unforgiveable. Personally, I hope Adams knocks you out on April 14. That truly would be the fitting end.
World’s largest 5-a -side tournament coming to Bristol
Whatever happened to Alex Bogdanovic? Tom Mordey Online Editor
menstennisblog.info
Although British tennis has struggled for top players on a consistent basis for some time, there was a period around 2005/06 when things looked really bleak. Between Tim Henman’s (and indeed Greg Rusedski’s) fall from grace and prior to Andy Murray’s spectacular arrival on the scene, there was no-one left to fly the flag. However, one name was consistently touted as ‘the next big thing.’ That name was Alex Bogdanovic. The British press jumped on the bandwagon believing Bogdanovic could be the next British Wimbledon champion. Unfortunately, the reality was rather different. Although it quickly became clear that Bogdanovic would never have the ability to become a Grand Slam winner, it was widely thought that he at least had the potential to break into the world’s top 50 at some point in his career. Early success during his junior career piled the pressure on the young star. He
was the first British player to reach the semi-final of the US Open juniors in 2001 (a feat only matched when Murray arrived on the scene). A first senior title followed in 2002, as well as a wildcard draw into Wimbledon. Despite losing in the first round, he went on to win the senior national championships, beating world top 100 Brit Martin Lee. A Davis Cup debut soon followed and Bogdanovic gave world number 1 Leyton Hewitt a stern test, even serving for the first set. A win over former Grand Slam doubles winner Todd Woodbridge handed him a first Davis Cup victory. The ‘next Tim Henman’ was now receiving praise from all quarters, including his Davis Cup captain Roger Taylor. Indeed, he went so far as comparing Bogdanovic’s backhand to that of the legendary Rod Laver. The rest of 2003 saw a number of significant wins for Bogdanovic, as he reached a Challenger final at Surbiton, whilst also winning matches against notable names, such as Ivo Karlovic and Joachim
Johansson. In 2004, the downward spiral began. The LTA decided to cut a considerable proportion of Bogdanovic’s funding due to question marks over his commitment. The youngster was not progressing at the rate he should, winning only one Challenger event and only qualifying for one Major (the
US Open, where he lost in the first round). Still, Bogdanovic’s ratings did edge towards the top 100, despite consistent defeats whenever he received a wildcard for ATP tournaments over the next couple of years. In 2007, Bogdanovic produced his best performance to date at Queen’s where he came within two points of beating
Andy Roddick, who claimed his opponent should be within the world’s top 50 by the end of the year. Bogdanovic reached a career high of 108 after the tournament. The expected rise to the top did not materialise, however. In fact, 2008 proved to be a disastrous year for Britain’s number two. Following a string of disappointing Davis Cup performances, captain John Lloyd axed him from the squad. Bogdanovic then dropped out of the world’s top 200. He was largely forgotten as fellow Brit Andy Murray began to take the tennis world by storm. Later in the year, he racked up his 8th straight first round defeat at Wimbledon; a miserable record that has seen him pick up just 3 of the 27 sets he has played at the All England Club. He paid the price in 2010, when he was removed from the guest list for the prestigious tournament. This meant that he had to endure qualifying and unfortunately Nicholas Mahut ended his chances early on. He then faced the ignominy of having his funding slashed
by 80% from at least £19,000 in 2009 to just £4,000 the following season, with LTA director Steven Martens questioning his work ethic. It is a sorry ending for a player that promised so much but ultimately delivered so little. His last recorded ranking stood at 317; a lowly position that sees him languishing behind four other Brits. He did receive a Davis Cup recall in 2011 for a match against Tunisia, but only thanks to Andy Murray’s enforced absence and injuries to other British players. Unfortunately, Bogdanovic epitomises what is wrong with British tennis. This is the extreme national pressure to perform and the fundamental flaws with the LTA in helping the top professionals. For whatever reasons, be it motivation or lack of application, there is no doubt Alex Bogdanovic is one of the major failures of British tennis and his failure to break even into the world’s top 100 is a massive disappointment for those who saw him dominate the junior ranks. As a result, Britain still searches for Andy Murray’s number two.
Epigram
06.02.2012
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The 2012 Six Nations Preview Italy
Brendan Curran Rugby Correspondent Having spent a month and a half rising at godforsaken hours to experience the joys of the World Cup, international rugby returns to its rightful time zone with this year’s Six Nations. The Webb Ellis trophy involved many twists and turns, firstly with Ireland turning over a much fancied Australian side before Wales did the same at the Irish team’s expense. England faded away to what was presumed a faltering French side and Les Bleus shocked everyone by coming within a penalty of World Cup glory. The outcome is a very unpredictable Six Nations but after my close prediction last year (Ireland Grand Slam), I will try my hand.
Six Nations Fixture List February 4th France v Italy, 2.30pm Scotland v England, 5pm
The continued upward curve of Italian rugby has continued with the vastly improved performances of Treviso in both the Rabo 12 League and the Heineken Cup. With their inspirational captain Sergio Parisse driving them on, the Italians will be hoping for some upsets of their own after defeating the French last year. However, in a similar vein to Scotland, they are not in the same class as the four other sides. Prediction: Wooden Spoon. Key Player: Sergio Parisse England
Ireland
Scotland France
Wales
February 5th Ireland v Wales, 3pm February 11th Italy v England, 4pm France v Ireland, 8pm February 12th Wales v Scotland, 3pm February 25th Ireland v Italy, 1.30pm England v Wales, 4pm February 26th Scotland v France, 3pm March 10th Wales v Italy, 2.30pm Ireland v Scotland, 5pm March 11th France v England, 3pm
Wales paved their way to the World Cup semi finals with a blend of youthful exuberance and a fastflowing brand of rugby, making themselves many people’s favourites. Their young captain Sam Warbuton, so monumental at the World Cup, will be key to any aspirations they have of replicating their successes of 2006 and 2008. The Welsh open up with a very difficult encounter in Dublin against an Irish team aching for revenge. However, if they were to navigate through that clash with a victory they will be a hard team to stop. Nonetheless, despite all their efforts in New Zealand they fell short and I predict that they will do the same again.
A disappointing World Cup campaign resulted in Martin Johnson’s resignation as head coach. Interim coach, Stuart Lancaster has been given a brief window to prove that he is the man to rejuvenate England moving toward the 2015 World Cup. Opting for youth, Lancaster hopes to banish memories of a poor World Cup with the introduction of prominent Premiership stars like Owen Farrell and Charlie Sharples who have shone in this year’s domestic and European competitions. Despite the commendable effort by Lancaster, the inexperience in the side may spell some frustrating days for English fans this time around.
Prediction: 2nd. Key Player: Sam Warbuton
Prediction: 4th. Key Player: Tom Wood
Making up almost half of the Heineken Cup quarter finalists, Irish rugby would appear to be in a very strong position with three provinces firing on all cylinders. Their formidable back row of Stephen Ferris, Jamie Heaslip and Sean O’ Brien would strike fear into any team in world rugby. However, for the first time in years, Ireland will be without their talismanic captain Brian O’ Driscoll. The loss of one of the greatest centres ever could be telling in what is bound to be a very tight competition. If they are still unbeaten going into the final day clash at Twickenham they may be able to add a second Six Nations grand slam. However, their poor record in Paris should end any hopes of victory.
Scotland’s opening match against the ‘Auld Enemy’ will set the tone for the rest of their campaign. If they can defeat England, they might go on to spring a few surprises. Much of the Scotland starting 15 will be drawn from the Edinburgh team that topped their pool in the Heineken Cup, and if Scotland can get the two Lamont brothers in dangerous areas then a win could be on the cards against England. Nonetheless, having not even qualified from their World Cup group Scotland remain weak, and a battle to avoid the wooden spoon would most likely seem to be their fate.
Having lost to minnows in the shape of Tonga in the group stages of the World Cup, France delivered their performance of the tournament to nearly break Kiwi hearts in the final. Leaving the World Cup as the leading northern hemisphere side, it is hard to dismiss France as favourites and with the excellent Phillipe Saint-Andre in charge, French fans will be hoping he and the ever versant Imanol Harinordoquy can lead France to the Grand Slam. This Six Nations will no doubt be one of the closest in recent history but this experienced French squad should have enough to be champions.
Prediction: 3rd. Key player: Brian O’ Driscoll’s replacement
Prediction: 5th. Key player: Richie Gray
Prediction: Winners. Key Player: Morgan Parra
March 17th Italy v Scotland 12.30pm Wales v France, 2.45pm England v Ireland, 5pm All games are going to be shown live on the BBC
Home Grounds England: Twickenham, London France: Stade de France, Paris Ireland: Aviva Stadium, Dublin Italy: Stadio Olimpico, Rome Scotland: Murrayfield, Edinburgh Wales: Millenium Stadium, Cardiff
Sports club quick fire: Epigram meets the Canoe Club David Stone Deputy Sport Editor This week, Epigram met up with captain Richard Evans for the inside story behind the Canoe Club. Firstly, do you hold any position within the club? Yes, club Captain. I was voted into the position at the end of last year. I had previously been involved with kayaking preuniversity so joining this group was a natural step for me. What’s the difference between kayaking and canoeing then? They’re actually very similar, just that a different paddle is used!
How many teams are there in the canoe club? We currently have 4 polo teams, but also as a club we go whitewater and surf-kayaking. Overall there are roughly 90 members. So it’s not all competitive then? Yeah most of it isn’t competitive at all, mainly about just having fun and travelling. Each year we go to Scotland and the Alps, and last year several members went to Uganda to go onto The White Nile. How many freshers play in higher teams? There is one team just for freshers, but they don’t generally play in the top teams until later
years. What’s your training routine? Every Wednesday we practise down in Bristol harbour docks, as well as two pool sessions and one gym session each week. Favourite SCORE location? O2 Academy Most memorable fancy dress? Has to be Super Mario Brothers How do other clubs view you? They don’t view us at all! In fact I’m not sure if they know we even exist! Best Player? Sam Fry
Wise head of the squad? Smithy’s captain and Sam knows what’s going on. But Mike is the real brains. What would the dream season be for the club? For the first team not to get relegated out of Division 1 South West, and for both our men and Women’s teams to win BUCS! Do you have any important events coming up? Yes, the National Student Rodeo which is the world’s biggest kayaking event apart from the Olympics. 1000 students from 60 universities compete in freestyle kayaking. It’s held on the 3/4th of march at the National Water Sports Centre in Nottingham.
Epigram
06.02.2012
34
Women’s FA Cup Final at Ashton Gate Tom Burrows Sport Editor The Football Association has announced that Ashton Gate, home of Bristol City FC, will be the venue for the 2012 women’s FA Cup final. This will be Bristol’s first ever cup final. In a press conference held at the stadium on Monday 23 January, Guy Price the Bristol City chief executive emphasised the importance of staging the event for the city. He said ‘We are delighted to be hosting the women’s FA Cup final at Ashton Gate. The match will be the pinnacle of a week of sports in Bristol, which also sees the Olympic Torch Relay (Tuesday 22 May) and Bristol 10k (Sunday 20 May) take place. Hosting the women’s FA Cup final gives the city a great chance to showcase what sport in Bristol has to offer.’ He went on to explain how Bristol City was a ‘community club’ and the Cup final was an opportunity to ‘bring as many people together as possible, ensuring local people and communities play a part in what will be a great week of sport for Bristol.’ Sue Hough, chair of the FA women’s committee said: ‘We are delighted to be taking this year’s final to Bristol. With Bristol being the home of one of
England manager Hope Powell and members of the national team with the Women’s FA Cup at Ashton Gate
our top women’s football clubs, Bristol Academy, we are really hoping that fans, families and teams from across the region, and across the country as a whole, will help us make this a truly memorable occasion in the women’s football calendar.’ The upcoming year is a busy and important one for women’s football. The second season of the women’s super league (consisting of 8 teams) begins in April. Two months later, the England senior women’s team play their vital European
Championship qualifier against the Netherlands. They currently lie in second place behind Holland and desperately need a victory to stand any chance of reaching the finals in Sweden in 2013. Then, in July, Team GB will be represented in the women’s football competition for the very first time. As Hope Powell, the manager of the national team and Team GB put it: ‘This is a really busy year for women’s football. It is a fantastic chance to showcase women’s football and we want
to cement our position as the number one participation sport for women.’ Ellen White, the Arsenal and England striker echoed Powell’s views. She explained in an interview with Epigram how the FA Cup final and particularly the Olympics were a prime opportunity to ‘highlight and promote women’s football.’ She said: ‘At the moment our average attendances are about 500-1000. The chance to play football all over the UK during the Olympics will mean that
more people will get to see it and hopefully that will drive up attendances.’ She went on to explain how the Andy Gray saga had actually benefited women’s football. She said: ‘It threw it into the media and the public eye. Not a lot of people actually knew about women’s football and I think people started to pay more interest to it after that. It demonstrated how people’s perceptions towards women’s football are changing and that is certainly a good thing. In some ways then,
McGhee called in to steady sinking Pirates Tom Mordey Online Editor
New manager Mark McGhee will be hoping to fare better than his Gasheads predecessors
well-publicised spat between the manager and Rovers legend and fans’ favourite, Stuart Campbell, led to the former captain and caretaker manager leaving the club. Buckle’s popularity suffered, and following an embarrassing 5-2 defeat at home to Crewe Alexandra, his time was up.
Nick Higgs, the Bristol Rovers chairman, was now on the hunt for yet another manager. The search proved difficult and frustrating. First, Sean O’Driscoll, the former Doncaster manager and Paul Ince distanced themselves from the job. Then Burton Albion manager, Paul
soccer365.com
Exit Buckle. Enter McGhee. This fortnight, Bristol Rovers made Mark McGhee their fourth permanent manager in two years. It is fair to say that the club are becoming a symbol for England’s farcical managerial merry-go-round. Rovers currently lie in 17th and are precariously close to the dreaded bottom two. Nonleague football is simply not an option. No club wants to travel away to Barrow or Bath City. The Buckle experiment did not work. The chirpy Londoner was brought in over the summer following Dave Penney’s disastrous two month spell in charge. His appointment meant there was a huge amount of optimism surrounding the club during the summer. Along with Buckle came an incredible 21 fresh faces. This was a new beginning; a chance to reignite the club and take the division by storm. Unfortunately, things did not work out this way. After a promising start to the season, results began to go against Buckle and Rovers. A
Peschisolido (husband of Karen Brady), rejected the chance to manage Rovers. This suggests the position at the Memorial Stadium has become something of a poisoned chalice with plenty of managers keen to avoid an early axing. It was then a four-horse race between McGhee, the former QPR coach
Keith Curle, the ex-Luton boss Richard Money and the former Colchester manager Geraint Williams. The club eventually plumbed for the Scotsman McGhee and offered him a two and a half year contract. This is McGhee’s eighth club. Indeed, the 54-year-old will look to resurrect his own career that has stalled in recent times. McGhee won promotion with Reading, Millwall and Brighton, before leading Motherwell to Europe in the SPL. However, his tenure at Aberdeen lasted only 18 months, after he won just 17 of 62 games. Both manager and club therefore need to revive their stock which has fallen far from previous heights. McGhee has begun life at Rovers extremely well. His first game in charge saw the Pirates defeat high-flying Cheltenham Town away from home. This was followed by a home victory over struggling Bradford City (another big club that has suffered in recent years). Incredibly, this was Rovers’ first home win for three months. Relegation? Forget it. The optimistic Rovers fans will already have started dreaming about promotion again.
negative press can actually be a positive thing.’ The FA Cup final will mark the end of the first stage of the season. The season will then resume again following the Olympic Games. When the discussing the day itself, Powell said that there ‘are always some nerves and emotions run high…the whole build up to the game makes it a very special occasion.’ She went on to say that ‘a sell-out crowd would make it a great atmosphere in the stadium.’ Indeed, it is hoped that Ashton Gate can fill its 21,000 capacity. Siobhan Chamberlain, the Bristol Academy and England goalkeeper expressed this to Epigram. She said, ‘I played in last year’s final at the Ricoh Arena (where Arsenal beat Bristol Academy 2-0) and there were almost 14,000 people there. However, it felt quite empty as the stadium can hold about 30,000 people. That’s why I think it will be so good at Ashton Gate because it will hopefully be packed out. I also played at Ashton Gate in last year’s Champion’s League game (for Bristol Academy) against Energiya Voronezh and 3,000 people came to see us and generated a great atmosphere. To play in an FA Cup in front of a full stadium would be incredible.’
The Bristol Rovers Managerial MerryGo-Round 1996-2001 Ian Holloway 2001 Garry Thompson (caretaker) 2001 Gerry Francis 2001-2002 Garry Thompson 2002 Phil Bater (caretaker) 2002-2004 Ray Graydon 2004 Phil Bater (caretaker) 2004 Russell Osman and Kevan Broadhurst (joint caretakers) 2004-2005 Ian Atkins 2005-2010 Paul Trollope 2010-2011 Darren Patterson (caretaker) 2011 Dave Penney 2011 Stuart Campbell (caretaker) 2011 Paul Buckle 2012 Mark McGhee
Epigram
06.02.2012
35
Barracuda v Bullets in Varsity Opener Stuart Tabberer Sports Reporter The 2012 Bristol Varsity series kicks off with a bang this year as the University of Bristol American football team, the Bristol Barracuda, host a mouthwatering clash against town rivals, the University of West England Bullets. The biggest game of the year for both teams will be hosted by Bristol on Sunday 12th of February with kick off scheduled for 3pm. Inspired by the atmosphere and razzamatazz of the NFL’s own Super Bowl, the Barracuda are putting on a landmark event for the hundreds of spectators expected to attend. Live play by play commentary will be provided by Burst Radio’s own Jake Noden and Cuda Alumni Pete Stanley. In addition the match referees will be ‘miked up’ to relay decisions to the crowd, helping fans
understand the flow of the game. Keeping the fans happy, refreshments will be available from the fully licensed bar on site, whilst entertainment will be provided by the Bristol Jets and UWE Comets cheer squads. There are also prizes being awarded every quarter for the spectator competitions. Last year’s Varsity matchup saw the Bullets win through 20-14 in overtime after a thrilling encounter between the teams in the pouring rain at UWE’s home field. This year the Bullets come into this game undefeated, but Cuda Club Captain Chris Bullough remains positive about the teams performance and chances, ‘This game is going to be huge for both teams, there is something about playing football under the lights infront of lots of enthusiastic spectators that really gets the adreneline going. We hope the fans enjoy the spectacle we have laid
on, a lot of thought has gone into providing the fans with as real an American football experience as possible. As far as the team are concerned we know that it does not matter what the occasion is or who we are playing, we go out onto
Sailors reach BUCS Final Amy Cleaves Nick Wilkinson Sports Reporters
a 60-plus squad of student athletes, led on the field by a 17 strong staff of experienced coaches. The team competes in the South Western Atlantic Conference of the British Universities American Football League (BUAFL). The 2010-
Intramural Squash Ladder
complacency was perhaps present, giving their team the opportunity to win the prestart and unfortunately the race. In the next race, we managed to overtake at the downwind mark due to our quick decision in getting the spinnaker down. This race was won with a comfortable lead. The following race was Bristol’s from the start, as the other team did not have the opportunity to overtake after falling behind in the prestart. This left the team with seven wins and one loss therefore negating the need for a final. Bristol’s Match Racing team have one practice event on the 17th-18th March before the BUCS/BUSA final on the 28th-29th April for which they will be in strong contention for the trophy and top BUCS points. Given this was the first time the team had all sailed together, it was certainly a success!
Nicholas Bone Sports Reporter
one or two, depending on how much they can fit in. After launching in mid-October, the leagues have already passed Intramural Badminton and Basketball in terms of number of participants, with more people getting involved every month. Considering squash is an individual sport, 22
leagues is an impressive figure already, but as far as the club is concerned, the sky is the limit for how many there could be. There are people in the leagues from all backgrounds, and many people already play another Intramural sport, since it is not necessary to play on a Wednesday afternoon.
Nicolas Bone
Nick Wilkinson
Bristol University officially launched Intramural Squash this academic year, and 2 months in there are over 100 people involved in 22 monthly box leagues. Run by the squash club itself, the leagues have national standard 1st team players in the top boxes, and complete beginners in the lower boxes, meaning absolutely anyone can get involved. With the New Year bringing 4 brand-new courts for the club at Bristol Grammar School, now is certainly the time to get involved in a club whose 1st team came 5th out of all UK universities last term. The new initiative from the club, aimed to get more people involved in the fast-paced and growing sport, has had a great response from students and is turning into a great success. At just £5 to join for the year, the leagues represent great value for money, considering full squash club membership is not necessary. The leagues are open to all (even postgrads and lecturers!) and after being put in a league with similar standard players, it is left to the competitors to organise games at suitable time and venue. This means that even those with the most hectic schedules can fit in a 40 minute match. Players can have up to 4 matches in a month, or choose to only play
Nicolas Bone
Last weekend, Bristol sailing took its team to the BUSA/ BUCS Match Racing Qualifier 2 for Southern universities. This is renowned as the hardest qualifier given the large amount of universities in proximity to the sea. The event was sailed in 24 ft boats known as J80’s. The team consisted of James Goss, Nick Wilkinson, Olly Sloper, Emma Lombard and Stevie Beckett. Thankfully, they had the advantage of being seeded second in the round robin. Therefore the team had the opportunity to sail those without a ranking first, before taking on the higher ranked teams the following day. The first day was blowing 20 knots gusting up to 35, so
sailors were not allowed to use spinnakers (used when the wind is 90°–180° off the bow). This allowed Bristol’s early leads to be secured by the first mark. They sailed through the first day winning each of four races, against Portsmouth, Plymouth, UWE and Exeter, meaning we had already secured a place in the final. The second day saw the sailing team gaining the use of the spinnaker. The first race of the day was against the highest ranked team from Southampton Solent University. Bristol had the disadvantage during the prestart of entering from the port where the other boat has right of way. However they rapidly took control of the prestart and led with a comfortable few boat lengths to win. Their next race was Southampton University. As they had just won the last race,
that field to win. The first half of the season was tough but we have come back stronger than ever and are really looking forward to this game’. Founded in 2006, the Barracuda have quickly established themselves with
11 season saw the Barracuda named as the NFL UK National University Club of the Year, recognising not only the teams on-field achievements but also the teams’ work in raising the profile of American football within the university, and development of the sport in the community. In addition to this national award the Cuda also received the accolades of Best Student group 2011 and Bristol sports club of the year 2011 from the University of Bristol Students Union to cap what was a great season for the Cuda. The Bristol American Football Varsity kicks off at 3pm on Sunday 12th Feb and admission is free. The game will be played on Clifton College’s state of the art third-generation artificial surface, providing the perfect arena for this sporting spectacle. Transport to the game should be avaliable from both the Students’ Union and halls of residence.
Epigram
06.02.2012
Sport
Editor: Tom Burrows
Deputy Editor: David Stone
sport@epigram.org.uk
deputysport@epigram.org.uk
Late penalty miss costs Bristol John Howell Sports Reporter
Michael Hodge
The University of Bristol Men’s Football Club’s 1st XI suffered a two-nil defeat at home to UWIC on January 25. On a dreary afternoon at Coombe Dingle, two well executed goals from the Welsh outfit was enough to see off the home side. It could have been a different story though, as Jack Day had a late penalty saved to prevent any hopes of a Bristol comeback. Despite the loss, the result does mark an improvement for Bristol, who were thrashed by UWIC earlier in the season. There were high hopes within the Bristol ranks that UWIC were a side that could be beaten. After a poor start to the season where they were subject to some humiliating defeats, a superb cup run has followed alongside some important wins in the league. This Christmas break could not have come at a worse time for Bristol; these results had created a strong winning mentality within the group and a belief that was simply not present at the start of the season. Many of the squad could draw inspiration from last season’s match against UWIC; a classic which culminated in a 5-4 victory for UBAFC. This thrilling match put UBAFC into the promotion chase last year and there was hope that a similar result in this fixture would do the same. They faced an even bigger challenge as they would have to do it without the services of inspirational captain Ben Precious and full back Jack Carter. With other injury worries in the squad, Dan Brown and
Toby Max Symth shows his frustration after Jack Day misses a late penalty
Nick Cunniffe were called up from the second team for their first team debuts. Manager Alan Tyres opted to give Sean Price his first start of the season since returning from injury in place of Precious and Leo Sharer was given the task of playing right back against the rapid Welsh frontline. James Chiang was given the captain’s armband for the afternoon. The match started off at a frantic pace with neither side able to get hold of the ball and create anything meaningful. As predicted UWIC were playing their Neil Warnock-esque brand of football, pumping the ball long into the corners of the pitch for their strikers to chase. This was being dealt with easily by centre back pairing Alastair Gourlay and man of the match Ben Cole. The first moment of excitement occurred when stand-in skipper Chaing robbed a UWIC defender on the edge of the area. Chaing has been
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known for his prolific scoring record inside the six-yard box, but unfortunately the man known for showing no emotion could only dribble his shot from twenty yards straight at the goalkeeper. A shot on target at least in this uneventful first half display. Towards the end of the first half, UWIC began to look more dangerous, especially at set pieces, striking both post and bar at various attempts. Indeed these early warning signs were an indication of what was to come as UWIC took the lead following a well worked free-kick on the thirtieth minute. This was a bitter blow for Tyers’ side as neither side had particularly deserved to go in front. UWIC grew with confidence following the goal and could sense Bristol were rattled. Capitalising on a defensive mix-up, the UWIC number nine bore down on Toby Smyth’s goal, managing to take it round the Bristol goalkeeper
but only to inexplicably put the ball casually wide. This was a real let off for Bristol as UWIC should have really doubled their advantage. Bristol could also count themselves fortunate as the referee did not award a penalty for a mistimed lunge inside the box from Gourlay. The half-time whistle sounded to what was, in truth, a low quality first half. With the words of Alan Tyers ringing in their ears, Bristol came out for the second half intent to turn the deficit around. In an immeasurably improved performance, Bristol were managing to string passes together and create space for striker Day who cut a forlorn figure upfront during the first half. Unfortunately for UBAFC, it was another questionable refereeing decision that led to UWIC opening up a further lead. Playmaker Harry Hatchwell was seemingly wrestled to the ground in a challenge that
Inside Sport
would not have been out of place on a rugby pitch. UWIC profited from this by slipping a pass to an on rushing winger, who fired a first time shot past Smyth. Fuelled from this injustice, Bristol attempted to force their way back into the encounter. With Matthew Exton and Price managing to be brought into the game and substitute fullback Brown making attacking runs down the right channel, UBAFC were looking far more menacing. With ten minutes left on the clock, they were handed a lifeline as tricky winger Price won his side a penalty. It fell to Day, but unfortunately his midas touch in front of goal deserted him from the spot and his penalty was well-saved. This did not deter Bristol however as centre midfield pairing Max Western and Hatchwell, aided by impressive substitute Cunniffe, were having more of an influence on the match. Hatchwell himself could have pulled a goal back for Bristol in the final minutes of the game. However he was victim of a comic bobble and was unable to make a clean contact with the ball when through one-onone. The final whistle went with Bristol feeling dejected following their inability to extend their winning run to five games. Despite the result Alan Tyers can take many positives from the second half performance into their next fixture. With a quarter-final cup clash with Southampton Solent next week and Varsity at the Memorial Stadium against UWE on the 12th March, Bristol have plenty of chances to make amends.
This week in Epigram Sport, we preview the first fixture in the 2012 Varsity Series as Bristol Barracuda take on UWE’s Bullets in what should be a fantastic match and a great opener to the season. Elsewhere, we report on how the Bristol sailing team reached the BUCS finals and the trials and tribulations of Intramural Squash this year.
Page 35
Ashton Gate Stadium, home of Bristol City F.C. is going to host the 2012 Women’s FA Cup Final in May. Epigram Sport learns what this means for the city and also spoke to Hope Powell, England manager. Over in Horfield, Bristol Rovers have yet another new man in charge, Mark McGhee.
Page 34
With the Six Nations rugby tournament just kicking off, we preview the teams of the competing countries. Will a new England side triumph again, or will a new contender take the crown? (Not Italy, of course). Our Sports Club Quickfire feature this week is with the Bristol Canoe club.
Page 33
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