BRISTOL
BRISTOL // APRIL 2010
EYE APRIL 2010
bristol march 2010
BRISTOL’S INDEPENDENT LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE
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EYE.BRISTOL.APRIL.2010
CONTENTS
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bristol.april.2010
04. recommended this month 12. MONTHLY WORK-OUT 16. SEB COE INTERVIEW 20. BETTER BY BIKE 26. MUSIC REVIEWS 36. DJ DAN INTERVIEW 43. H-BAR FOOD REVIEW 46. EVENT LISTINGS Title: Eye Zine Date: 20/01/2010 Andy Booth, Orbitals New Media
J
avier Alvarado Quesada, a killer designer from Costa Rica, has already established himself as a well know known digital designer. His skills know no bounds, blending pixels with vectors graphics his images result in such high impact and depth.
illustrations, designed for his clients and himself.
He’s got an amazing portfolio full of digital arts, photo manipulations and
We’re so greatful for the support he has shown towards EYE.
He most often combines photographs with dynamic illustrated elements and dazzling lighting effects to create a stunning result.
Javier Alvarado quesada www.poisonvectors.com poisonvectors@hotmail.com
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editors note
editors note Welcome to EYE, a natural evolution of previous publications both in print and online. The feedback we’ve had from our publications in the past has been staggering. Constant praise and a desire for self-punishment has driven us to step it up a gear and open up our online and offline magazine to those who have something to say or a desire to be involved. We’re an independent magazine, and always have been. Run by a small team of comitted individuals that welcome any support and thrive from helping publicise local businesses and showcasing local talent. We’re constantly looking for new stories and feel that most are ‘newsworthy’, afterall it’s not for us to judge. It’s a new dawn for us and fresh outlook on the way we do things. We’re very excited and perhaps you should be too. If you’ve got something to bring to the publication, let us know and we’ll grab a coffee and get some ideas down. We hope you enjoy our offering and will join us in forging something new and creative for our city. EYE BRISTOL contribute@eyezine.co.uk
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editorial
tel. 01179 117 866 editorial@eyezine.co.uk
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tel. 01179 117 866 sales@eyezine.co.uk kim cottrell
kim@eyezine.co.uk
photography bex wade jesse karjalainen jeb photography
words
charlie walker ian ochiltree james davies jason smith johnny brookes lindsay kate sellors
your name here... email contribute@eyezine.co.uk
EYE is a magazine published by BPM Multimedia Ltd, 25 Victoria Street, Bristol, BS1 6AA. Unsolicited manuscripts, artwork, photographic prints are accepted only on the understanding that BPM Multimedia Ltd accepts no liability for loss or damage. It is assumed that the model release or prior permission to reproduce has been obtained by photographer or sender. Reproduction of pictures or text from the magazine without written permission is forbidden. No responsibility can be accepted for any breaches of obligation by advertisers. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect those expressed by BPM Multimedia Ltd. BPM Multimedia Ltd is not responsible for breach of copyright through the reproduction of photographs within advertisements.
over 21’s dress smart casual free entry before 10pm
www.oceanaclubs.com
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recommended this MONTH
Showcase Live Comedy Shows You’d usually expect to find blockbusting entertainment at your cinema. Cinema de Lux in Cabot Circus has been offering Live comedy for some time now and it seems that the destination cinema is really pulling it off. It’s a great price, very funny and a refreshing alternative to the traditional pre-recaorded entertainment usually associated with the cinema experience. Why not try it out this month. Alternate Thursdays at Showcase Cinema de Lux Cabot Circus throughout April. 1st April Addy Van Der Borgh, Josh Howie, Danny McLoughlin, Holly Walsh 15th April Christian Reilly, Patrick Monahan, Isy Suttie, Adrian Poynton £10 General Admission, £8 Student Admission (NUS ID required at box office), £7 Insider Admission (Insider card required at box office), Bar and Food 7.15pm.
Hoochie Coochie Nights at The Circus Thu 15th April 2010 - Metropolis - Cabaret Bristol
Still basking in the glory of the roaring success that was “The Love Kabaret” Hoochie Coochie are thrilled to announce their next show: “Nights at the Circus” A night of magic, mayhem and mischief with dancing clowns, man eating ring mistresses, girls in tiny glass boxes, fire eating EYEZINE.CO.UK
showgirls, over the hill cabaret acts, b boy jugglers, strip teasing zebra’s and performing reptiles. Bought to you by some of the finest performers you can see in the UK today; Delia Du Solie, Keda Breeze, Opheia Bitz, Bongo Bollero, The Crystal Clown, Lady Lilleth’s Travelling Reptile Display, Richard Durnford, Femme Ferale, Matt Pang. Tickets available exclusively from The Bristol Ticket Shop 0117 929 9008 - Metropolis are not selling tickets for this show.
Ruby Turner at The Tunnels Born in Jamaica, Ruby grew up in Montego Bay. She was told that Grandfather Turner was a lead singer in a gospel group. Music in the blood was confirmed. She was relocated to Birmingham, England when she was 9. Ruby can breathe life and meaning into a song whether it is a passionate soaring ballad or a soulful up-tempo groove. Her career to date has been sensational with major Tours, Film, TV and theatre appearances. Described as “truly the genuine article and blessed with a voice that has been likened to Aretha Franklin and Janis Joplin”, Ruby continues to win the hearts and minds of an ever growing and diverse fan base. www.rubyturner.com Friday 16th April Doors open 7:30pm £16.00 per ticket.
Incorporating several genres of music from classical to hip-hop, Diversity’s eye-catching routines won the hearts of the nation this May, as nearly 20 million people saw them sweep to victory in the competition in the most watched TV programme in the UK for over six years.
Privé sweetens up the club scene with the return of Hed Kandi It’s time to put on those dancing shoes as Privé announces its highly anticipated line up of clubbing sensations that are on a mission to rekindle Bristol’s mojo.
Diversity at Colston Hall
With a beautiful new club to call their own, Bristol’s party people will be making their moves on the dancefloor with musical motivation from the one and only Kate Lawler (famous for winning Big Brother, but now a queen of the decks) on the opening night on Thursday April 1st.
Diversity, the urban dance troupe that took the nation by storm in this year’s Britain’s Got Talent, will perform at Colston Hall on Thursday 8th April 2010.
Funky house heroes Hed Kandi keep the fire burning into the Bank Holiday weekend with the first of the regular appearances at Privé on Sunday April 4th with DJs Luke Neville, Hugh Gunnell, Kid Royale and Rosco.
The show, called Bringing A Toy Story To Life, will showcase the groups jaw-dropping dance routines against a backdrop of state of the art lighting, sound and visuals. Joining the group will also be Britain’s Got Talent star Aidan Davis and other special guests.
Privé will open from 5pm every Thursday, Friday and Saturday as a cocktail lounge with delicious pan-American appetisers available all evening. Club entry charges apply from 10pm. www.privebristol.com
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fashion & beauty
FAS HION& BEAUTY A fashion.
fter last month’s LONDON FASHION WEEK, the Queen herself hosted a fashion show at BUCKINGHAM PALACE which celebrated 50 years of BRITISH
Now that spring is here we have some great fashion ideas to spark inspiration for all you ladies. Our fashion pages feature a selection of retailers from Cabot Circus, such as French Connection, River Island, Dorothy Perkins, Warehouse and House of Fraser. L’OREAL has also just launched its new colour of the future. Further info and where to get hold of this can be found below. Also our resident fitness guru Charlie gives us some top exercise tips for the summer over on page 12.
INOA BY L’Oréal
Described by the brand as “revolutionary,” Inoa is not only ammonia-free (and therefore free from the ammonia-induced effects like a burning, itchy scalp) but also, lifts colour up to three shades, covers grey, and has true-to-tone results. By replacing ammonia with monoethanolamine, which typically has failed to cover grey or lighten hair as much as traditional ammonia-laden products, and by adding an oil-based gel and a cream developer, Inoa’s creators have finally, after years of research, developed a formula they claim delivers optimum results sans ammonia. For more information on this product, contact Central Studio on 0117 929 0120. www.loreal.co.uk
SKIN TONE CORRECTING MOISTURISER
SPF 20, 50ml, a multi-targeted, daily hydrating cream with patented and patent-pending ingredients to help treat, address and protect skin from current and future discolouration caused by hyperpigmentation and result in clarity and overall evenness of skin tone. RRP - £32.00 House of Fraser, Cabot Circus
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F
ashionistas from Bristol and beyond will be flocking to Cabot Circus this April for a series of free catwalk shows presenting the hottest trends for spring and summer.
Taking place under Cabot Circus’ iconic floating glass roof on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th April, the shows will feature the latest looks from the new collections. And, with outfits from designer names and the high street, they will include something for every budget and taste – whether you want to indulge your feminine side with pretty florals, grab attention with eye-popping prints or toughen up your look with this season’s masculine blazers and military detailing. Visitors will also be able to find out how to make the catwalk trends work for them at a fun ‘fashion and beauty playground’ in Quakers Friars. Experts will be on-hand to dispense advice on developing a capsule wardrobe using the season’s key pieces, updating your look with accessories and adapting your style for different occasions. Once armed with ideas, shoppers can then enjoy exclusive discounts at a range of retailers. Further inspiration, from fabulous clothes to brilliant beauty buys, will be showcased in glass cubes scattered around Cabot Circus and Quakers Friars, with all shoppers being invited to enter a prize draw for a chance to win the contents. The shows are being created by top stylist Ricky Partner, who has worked with a host of designer names such as Jasper Conran, Matthew Williamson and Julian Macdonald. They will also feature eye-catching choreography from Vicki Jackson, whose credits include Top of the Pops, MTV, Ronan Keating and Urban Cookie Collective. Ricky said: “The shops are full of beautiful, versatile and
effortlessly wearable pieces this season and the catwalk shows and fashion clinic will showcase the huge variety of trends available, including looks for men and children. Cabot Circus offers an extensive range of fashion, beauty and accessory brands, so it’s never been easier to find your own look and ensure a stylish spring and summer ahead.” Cabot Circus is the South West’s leading style destination and features more than 120 retailers, ranging from Harvey Nichols, Hugo Boss and House of Fraser to Reiss, Kurt Geiger, Hollister, Urban Outfitters, French Connection, Ted Baker, River Island, New Look, Topshop and Zara. It also has a wide selection of eateries, including Yo Sushi, Tampopo and Café Rouge, as well as gourmet dining options such as Brasserie Blanc, Carluccio’s, Piccolino and Harvey Nichols’ Second Floor Bar and Restaurant. For more show times and information please visit www.cabotcircus.com. Continues...
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fashion & beauty
China rose strappy dress £75 French Connection at Cabot Circus
C
Jacket £140 Top £60 Bag £45 Warehouse at Cabot Circus
abot Circus offers the ultimate shopping experience boasting over 140 stores from a host of designer and high-street. Fashionistas from Bristol and beyond will be flocking to Cabot Circus this April for a series of free catwalk shows presenting the hottest trends for spring and summer. Taking place under Cabot Circus’ iconic floating glass roof on Friday 16th and Saturday 17th April, the shows will feature the latest looks from the new collections. Here is a taster of what will be on offer.
Print dress £32 Obi belt £12 Black boots £42 Dorothy Perkins at Cabot Circus
Scarf £28 Top £45 Bag £38
Vest £12.99 Harem pants £29.99 Bag £29.99
Warehouse at Cabot Circus
River Island at Cabot Circus
EYEZINE.CO.UK
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opening offer 20% off when you mention this advert until 31/05/2010
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fashion & beauty
keeping young A
t some point in a person’s life, the person staring back in the mirror is not the person remembered. Wrinkles, skin tone, texture and elasticity are now part of the reflection. The person in the mirror reflects all of life’s good times, bad times, genetics, stress and environmental factors. Whether the result of good or bad times in life, the face reflects something we may wish to change if we could. Working with Brunel Beauty and Medical in Westbury-on-Trym, EYE have compiled and all you need to know guide about toning your face without surgery! The first attempt in changing the facial appearance may be through anti-aging creams. The anti-aging creams may improve the tone and even the texture of the skin possibly. Even with professional treatments applying quality products the results will not always bring back the sagging cheeks and jaw-line or youthful color of the skin that a person once had. There are many products on the market that make big claims and solutions for these issues, but is there really anything that can be done? There are many different reasons for the aging of the skin according to some experts. These explanations include a person’s genetic preset future, lacking of a nutrient-rich diet that include necessary elements to rejuvenate and regenerate the skin, weak muscles and reduction in collagen cause the skin to sag and toxins in the body and environmental factors on the outside of the body damage the skin’s cells. Additionally, smoking and sun damage are the two main reasons why people have dry, ageing looking skin. There are a few options for a person to choose from that actually have results. Botox injections have become increasingly popular lately. These injections are inserted to the small muscles underneath the noticeable lines in the face causing concern. The botox works to relax the muscle into the correct place, creating a smooth, tightened face temporarily. After three or six months the procedure will need to be repeated.
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Her new treatment on offer is ‘micro needling’ this treatment is one of the latest skin renewal techniques. It works by allowing for controlled induction of the skins self repair mechanism by creating ‘micro injuries’ in the skin which trigger new collagen synthesis yet does not pose the risk of permanent scarring. The result is a smoother, firmer and younger looking skin. A new natural method for facial improvement is facial exercises. Facial exercises are inexpensive and a non-invasive way to combat the aging fate. Facial exercise and massages are a routine a person needs to stick to as with any other form of exercise, in order to stimulate the facial muscles which will help the skin stay in its proper place. It has been reported that if a person does stick with the regimen, results will appear. Several versions of facial massage and exercise vary from self-educating books, professional treatments or various devices for a person to use. Some of the more popular anti-aging exercises and massages include the Indian facial massage, facial exercises developed by gyms is a new trend and also a facial exercise ball used in conjunction with herbal nutrients to resistance train the muscles while treating the skin with herbal therapy. Christine Springer is one of the UKs leading cosmetic injectors because of her 19 years knowledge of the industry she mentors other practitioners to help them understand the concept behind ‘anti ageing’ she also trains doctors and nurses to administer the injectables and won the ‘Collagen Customer Care Award’ 1996. Brunel Beauty and Medical offer the following proceedures: • Collagen • Teosyal • Restylane & Perlane • Lip Enhancement • Removal of frown lines • Sclerotherapy • Theraderm Skin Renewal System • elōs technology • Lactlic Acid skin peels • Microneedling Tel: 0117 9076363 info@brunelbeautyandmedical.co.uk
Commitment to quality and high standards have earned the salon an enviable reputation with indorsements from top mags including Vogue, Harpers & Queen and Elle.
MAXIMUM FX
3 .St. Augustines Place The Centre, Bristol BS1 4UD Tel. 0117 9230231
MAXIMUM FX
Established in 1987 by Shaun Nicholas. Maximum FX has became a nationally recognised hair salon & leading player in the Bristol hair dressing scene.
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HEALTH & FITNESS
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Body for the summer
L
ast month the focus was on the girls and advising on how to obtain the bikini body most strive for, this issue is all about the guys... Pumping up the muscles and losing the belly ready for summer holidays!
1. Squat
The worst beach look every summer is without a doubt the guy with huge arms, a pumped up chest and a pair of the skinniest chicken legs the world has ever seen. Get squatting... There is no better single leg exercise than the squat in my opinion. Get yourself into a stable position with the bar rested across
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the thick part of your upper back, lift out of the rack and take a couple of steps back. Stand with feet at shoulder width and keep your chest and head up to maintain good posture. Flex at the knees and hips and squat down till your thighs are parallel to the ground. Now push up through your feet back to your original position.
2. Bench Press
Paired with the abdominals the chest is by far the most visual aspect of the body when it comes to the summer, the bench press is such a key, important exercise to increase pectoral muscle size. It also gets the triceps involved to assist in the movement which will help to develop arm size as the triceps make up 70% of the upper arm. Lie out on the bench with your eyes in line with the bar above and take a grip just wide of shoulder width. Lift the bar to starting position, directly above your chest and begin to lower under control. Lower the bar to an inch or so from your chest and then press back out to original position. Do not lock out the arms at the top of each rep as this results in excess ware and tear on the joints, also keeping the elbows slightly flexed gives the added benefit of keeping the tension on the pectorals.
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3. Lat Pull Down
Increasing lat size is a sure fire way to create the V shape that all men work hard to achieve, back workouts also enlist the help of the biceps in all pulling movements therefore pumping up the arms at the same time. Take a wide grip on the bar and pull down into a seated position with your quads under the leg rests. Keep your eyes looking up at the bar and lift your chest to maintain a neutral spine. Squeeze and contract the lats and begin to flex at the elbows to pull the bar down to your collar, then return to original position at a controlled tempo.
4. Military Press
A standing military press has a massive advantage over a seated shoulder press as it engages so many core stabilisation muscles to support you whilst performing the move. Stand with feet at shoulder width or alternatively in a split stance and take a shoulder width grip on the bar. Lift the bar out in line with the top of your chest with your elbows pointing down and press upwards over head, again not locking the arms out fully and then lower under control.
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5. Abs
I could advise a variety of core exercises to get the abdominals toned, however flat abs are obtained primarily as a result of good nutrition and cardiovascular exercise. Therefore, increase the amount of cardio in your weekly exercise routine and try to choose healthy eating options. Good luck with all your goals and fingers crossed for the sunshine. Charlie Walker Personal Trainer – David Lloyd Westbury Mobile: 07595326311
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SPORT UPDATE
cricket is back A
pril sees the start of the 2010 domestic cricket season and Gloucestershire County Cricket Club have a busy schedule of fixtures. GCCC players have been in winter and pre-season training since 1st November in preparation for our first official game of the 2010 season on Thursday 15th April. The opening match of the season is an LV= County Championship match vs Northamptonshire at the County Ground. Tickets are available on the gate priced at £15 for adults and £7 for under 16s. The Gladiators begin their challenge for the Clydesdale Bank 40over title on Sunday 25th April versus Derbyshire Falcons. A perfect day out for all the family. Save £12 on a family ticket (4+4) by booking tickets in advance on www.gloscricket.co.uk or by calling 0117 9108010. There are 4 home matches during April, so don’t miss out on the action at the County Ground: 3rd – 5th April Uni match vs Cardiff UCCE 15th – 18th April LV=CC match vs Northamptonshire 21st – 24th April LV=CC match vs Sussex 25th April CB40 match vs Derbyshire Falcons
Why not become a member of the club and get entry to all home LV= County Championship, Clydesdale Bank 40 over and Friends Provident Twenty20 Cup (group stage) matches. Call 0117 9108017 or visit www.gloscricket.co.uk. Look out for the new look GCCC website in April, with many new features including video highlights of every Gloucestershire LV=CC match.
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The
Ranch Whiteladies Rd Official Pre-Bar for Comfy Sundae
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Seb Coe by james davies
SEB COE L
ord Sebastian Coe will forever be remembered as one of the finest athletes to represent Great Britain, after winning four Olympic medals and setting an astounding eight world records, in middle-distance running.
Coe who studied economics and social history at Loughborough University, began his running career at the tender age of twelve, after joining Sheffield’s Hallamshire Harriers, and it was here, between studies, a teenage Coe trained and began to win county and school championships. His father Peter, took an active role in shaping his sons career. As Sebastian’s coach, Peter cleverly built on his son’s potential, guiding him along the torturous road to sporting success. It paid off, with Coe winning his first race in 1977, during an eight hundred metre event, at the European Indoor Championships, in the aptly named, San Sebastian, setting the pace for the rest of his career. Now, as Chairman of the 2012 organising committee, Lord Coe is once again the man at the centre of the world’s greatest sporting event. In an exclusive interview for EYE, our reporter James Davies met up with the highly celebrated athlete, at a secret location in London. As the press began to tuck into the vast array of biscuits, and cakes on offer, as part of the mini buffet put on for the launch of John Keddie’s book, Running the Race, Lord Sebastian Coe took his opportunity to swiftly slip into the press conference before the hoards of reporters, who had gathered, had time to notice his arrival. Dressed in a smart blue suit, with his hair neatly arranged, there was a certain film star quality about the two time Olympic gold medallist. It’s not just the way he presents himself that projects this image, but the way he assertively holds his lean 5’9” frame too. On entering the room he quietly made his way to the front, scanning the several rows of seats, as he anxiously looked for somewhere to sit. After spotting his designated place, he hurriedly sat down, picked up a copy of the book he was promoting, from the pile
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that he and the author were to sign later, and began to read the foreword he had written. The buffet had proved a fine and welcome distraction for Coe, who for some reason seemed to want to keep a low profile, enabling him to sit alone. Although this was the first time I had been in Lord Coe’s presence, it was immediately clear what type of man this celebrated Olympian was. Despite his willingness to keep himself to himself, there was a certain air of authority and unquestionable confidence that only the most successful athletes possess. After introducing myself, Lord Coe rather charmingly moved his belongings, that were stacked up on the seat next to him, and invited me to sit down. Before I could begin the interview though, Lord Coe, or Seb as he wished to be called, insisted on getting us both a cup of tea. As he went to fetch the drinks I wondered where I should start the interview. Not only has he had a fascinating career, but he has had an enthralling life too. Back in his running days he was one of athletics’ greatest middle distance runners. Not only has he won two Olympic gold’s, but in 1979 he was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year after breaking three world records, in just forty-one days. With an engaging enthusiasm, he said, “I trained and raced for twelve years before I made an Olympic Games, so for me winning an Olympic gold was the culmination of hundreds of thousands of miles of running, weight sessions and coaching paying off. But I suppose the first thing you feel finishing an event with a great result is relief, because you don’t feel you’ve let down all the people who’ve been helping you along the way. You’re also glad it’s over for the moment, although you soon get back into the mindset of wanting to be a better runner next time round.” Lord Coe has always been a winner, and he quite happily admits the reason he became so successful was because he has always been bloody minded. “There is”, he says, “a belligerent streak in me. I have always had a healthy disrespect for being told things aren’t possible.”
An attitude that is hardly surprising given that, as a boy, he was told he would never be fast enough to become an eighthundred metre runner. But it is not just on the track that Lord Coe has excelled. In 1992 he became a Conservative MP, working alongside, former Tory leader, William Hague, and now holds the prestigious position of Chairman of the 2012 organising committee, where arguably he won his greatest ever race, by bringing the Olympic games to London. The London bid was initially way off the pace and when the five candidate cities were shortlisted, London was rated third behind Madrid and the favourites Paris. But with the timing that he showed so often in his illustrious running career, Coe helped London produce the late charge that was required to pip their French rivals, who had been firm favourites throughout the campaign. His combination of world record-holding pedigree, political experience, and his general affability played an undeniable part in the bid’s success, giving it an air of authority that was hard to ignore. It seemed somewhat fitting that he played such a pivotal role in persuading the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to award London the 2012 Games, as he has such a wonderful history with them. “The Olympics are the greatest sporting event there is” he said with a smile. Eliciting each question with a short speech, he continued, “They transcend sport. There is no other non political gathering that brings people together in such profusion and with such a wonderful vision. It’s not the panacea for all human ills, but it sure goes a long way to driving all sorts of values. Just look at the values of both the Olympics and Paralympics. The values of respect, friendship, courage, determination and sheer will to overcome adversity. This is something only sport can manage.” Despite Beijing’s meteoric success Lord Coe, who once ran an astonishing seventeen miles one Christmas morning, assures me he is not suffering sleepless nights over the awesome responsibility of having the world’s eyes on the English capital. Speaking with the single mindedness he talked about, Seb said, through gritted teeth, “I’ve broken thirteen world records in my time. I don’t intend to break a fourteenth and be the first organiser of an Olympics to bring them in late. Of course we will have a fantastic Games. We have a wonderful propensity in this country to doubt our ability. We
have fantastic examples of excellence at every level, whether it’s in the arts, sciences, in the quality of our policing or armed services. And yet we sometimes enter a tunnel of despair about it, which few other countries actually do.” After Britain’s Olympic success in Beijing, the newspaper headlines were inevitable. ‘It’s great to be British!’; ‘Britannia rules the Games!’. And who can blame them? It was, after all, a terrific summer full of success for Team G.B, with Great Britain firmly sat in fourth place in the medals table. So can we repeat this tremendous feat again, in front of our own nation on home soil? “Of course we can”, Lord Coe proudly boasts. “We’ve got a very good funding programme at elite level now with more money going into elite level sport than ever before. Although money is important it’s not the sole part of the story. You need athletes with hunger and commitment, as well as world class coaching and great administration to win gold medals. Excellence costs.” Despite his obvious confidence about success both in the medals table and in the running of the 2012 games, Lord Coe certainly has a lot of work to do over the next two years as Chairman of the organizing committee. However considering the achievements of his career to date, he seems like the perfect man for the job. James Davies Web: www.jamesdaviesmedia.co.uk
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ben ainslie by james davies
Ben Ainslie K
nife-edge decisions, adrenaline rushes, extreme weather, bitter rivalries, heartstopping races – they are all in a day’s work for sailing’s ‘Superman’, Ben Ainslie.
Ben has won four Olympic medals, including successive gold’s in the last three Olympic Games, making him not only a British hero but quite simply our greatest ever Olympic sailor. He is a true Olympic superstar, up there with the likes of fellow Olympians, Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps. In addition to his three Olympic gold’s and one silver, Ben has won eight World and European Championships, during his illustrious sailing career to date, been crowned ISAF World Sailor of the Year twice, and won British Yachtsman of the Year four times. Without question, Ben is the most accomplished competitor at work in British sport today. Although the likes of Chris Hoy, Lewis Hamilton and Rebecca Adlington, of course, deserve unreserved praise for all that they have achieved within their sports, the real adulation should be kept for Ainslie, who with a combination of dedication, stamina, tactical nous and an unrelenting level of ruthlessness, rarely witnessed before in British sport, has achieved almost all of his childhood dreams. In an exclusive interview for EYE, Ben reveals the truth behind his incredible achievements and his plans to bid for a fourth gold, where it all began- on home waters- at the London Olympics in 2012. From his proudest moment, representing Team GB, to one tough decision that almost risked destroying his career, Ben gives James Davies an insight into his life and explains why he can’t be second best. Ben Ainslie CBE, was born in Macclesfield on February 5, 1977. As the son of Roderick Ainslie, one might expect a young Ben to take an interest in water sports- after all, his father captained the first Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973.
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Sitting in what can only be described as a box-room, Ben revealed and took pride in telling me how it all started, and how he took his career to stratospheric levels. Rotating from side to side in a rather fetching red swivel chair, Ben explained, “I was about eight when my family moved to Cornwall. It’s a great place for a kid to grow up, especially if you love the water because you’re by the sea. I was lucky, because we lived on the edge of a creek, off an estuary, so it was very easy to get down to the water and go out sailing whenever I wanted to.” After a brief reflective pause, he added, “My parents were keen sailors so they got me into the sport but purely from an enjoyment point of view. When I was nine I was given a hand me down, second hand dingy, which is what most kids learn to sail in and it went on from there.” What started as a hobby, quickly turned into a way of life, and by the age of sixteen the talented sailor was already Laser Radial World Champion. Reflecting on his childhood, Ben said, “Where we lived was quite remote so it made catching up with my friends difficult, so sailing really became the big thing for me and my big focus as a kid. I came up through the youth divisions, like all other sports, so it was a gradual progression. It wasn’t one day that I suddenly woke up and decided I want to be a professional sailor or go to the Olympics. When I was eighteen I won the Youth World Championships and three months later I won the Olympic trials for the ’96 Games. That was really the big turning point for me in terms of actually seeing it as a sport, where I could become a professional and I could do it full time.” At just nineteen years old Ben, an ambitious and ferociously competitive young man, won his first Olympic medal- silver in the 1996 Atlanta Games.
Looking rather relaxed, the Olympic legend revealed, “I think in many ways winning a silver medal was very good for me because it gave me the determination to go out four years later and work that much harder to go one step better- so it wasn’t all bad. Although it was pretty frustrating at the time.” Four years later, Ben achieved every athlete’s dream, winning an Olympic gold at the Sydney Olympics in 2000. Ben, a charming and affable spokesperson off the water, reveals just how ruthless he is on it, admitting to fierce rivalries, above all with the Brazilian, Robert Scheidt, yes that’s right, Scheidt, who robbed him of a gold medal in his first Olympics four years previously. With a broad smile emblazoned across his tanned windswept face, Ben remarked, “It was an epic race with a man who has a fantastic name! It was one of those classic rivalries that had gone from ’96. In the four years leading up to Sydney, we were competing against each other in various events which either he or I would win. It came down to the final race in Sydney and I basically had to take him out- so it was some pretty aggressive tactics.” Looking somewhat relieved, as he relived the marathon duel, Ben commented, “It was incredibly intense but I managed to get there and do the job, so it was a huge relief. When you’ve got that sort of fierce rivalry against somebody, to actually come out on top was a massive relief more than anything.” What Ben did, to beat the Brazilian in Sydney, has been questioned in some quarters and regarded as unsporting by certain critics – not by me, I might add. Looking a little bemused by my question, Ben smiled and explained, “It was a little bit frustrating at the time. There were a few sporting commentators who didn’t know anything about sailing who were questioning the fairness of it, but actually within the history of sailing it wasn’t that new and certainly I didn’t break any rules. It was just very aggressive sailing. But sometimes in any sport, that’s what you need to win” In place of the tall and friendly man on shore, a darker and more driven character began to emerge. So, I wondered, where does this ruthless streak come from? After another brief and somewhat reflective pause, Ben mused, “I don’t know. Like in all sports you have to be ruthless at certain points to get a result and to win.” After the Sydney Olympics, Ben, who is an Honorary Doctor of Sport, at Southampton University, changed focus and spent fourteen months with the One World Challenge America’s Cup campaign. “That was great fun”, he enthused. His most recent win however, was gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Ben commented, “The gold in Beijing was very special because it was my third consecutive gold which meant a lot.” So has Ben dared to imagine what it would be like to be coming home for the gold medal, on home water, in Weymouth with the union flags flying? After a brief chuckle, Ben said, “It’s a scary thought. Winning a gold medal on home waterswhere I grew up, learned to sail and trained- would be a pretty surreal feeling and something very special.” It’s no secret that the British Olympic Association are targeting a number of key sports for medals- rowing, cycling and sailing are top of that list.
It has been argued that these are all fairly exclusive sports, as you have to have a certain amount of funding behind you in order to compete. This argument however doesn’t stand up with the affable Olympian. “I think there’s always a bit of a misconception. All Olympic sports at the top level are elite, but if you go down to the grass roots in sailing, I think it’s one of the highest participation sports in the UK. The big thing is to encourage the youngsters to get involved and make them realise it’s not that hard at the grass roots to get into a sport. It’s then up to you to take it as far as you want.” Although kids all over the globe dream of representing their country and becoming the best in their chosen sport, Ben rather humbly admits he couldn’t have imagined achieving all he has. “When I was a kid I dreamed of maybe going to the Olympics and somehow winning a gold medal, and perhaps one day being involved with the America’s Cup, but I never dreamt I would be where I am today, but I doubt most people do.” The talented sailor continued, “I think if you love doing something and you’re inspired, you set about on the track to try and do as well as you can and who knows where it will take you.” Before he rather humbly added, “My success has been a result of a number of different things. Obviously a huge amount of hard work, which you need in any sport, but I’m also really fortunate to be supported by great people- coaches and sponsors. It’s amazing, with individual sports you only see one person out there competing, but the team normally behind these people is huge- so I’m very fortunate with the support I get.” Having expressed his desire to race at the next Games in London, what advice would the charismatic Olympian give to those who wish to follow in his footsteps and, if possible, emulate all he has achieved? “The key is to enjoy it and to get involved. Sailing I think has come a long way in the last ten years. The likes of Ellen MacCarthur have really brought sailing into the living room and she’s really helped promote the sport, but it’s still got a long way to go.” Another gold old in two years time would certainly help promote sailing even further and judging by his track record you wouldn’t bet against Ainslie making it four gold’s from four games. Words: James Davies Close to the Wind, published by Yellow Jersey, priced £18.99
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better by bike?
better by bike B
eing British, we’re not about to stop talking about the weather anytime soon. So, with the rise of summer firmly en route we’re starting to think about doing more outside and perhaps dusting down the bike from the garage is a good start. Weekends are a fantastic time for getting out-and-about on the bike, either with friends for a mini adventure or with the family to wear-out the kids. But it’s not just summer weekends where your bike can play a part in both improving the environment and your health. The area of Greater Bristol received the UK’s first Cycling City status in June 2008. The status was awarded jointly to the two councils in the Greater Bristol area (Bristol City Council and South Gloucestershire Council). The Cycling City is an opportunity for everyone in the region to rediscover thier bikes. The funding of £11.4 million from Cycling England brings potential for unprecedented levels of innovation, something Bristol is not afraid to get involved in. Bristol and South Gloucestershire councils are looking to double the numbers of regular cyclists in Greater Bristol in a number of areas. Since winning the award The Cycling City project has completed 19 routes, planned over 13 miles of new routes and 39 miles of on-road and off-road improvements to make the experience of cycling in Bristol and South Gloucestershire as pleasurable as possible. The routes connect some of the most important locations in the city, giving people a direct and convenient way to get to their destination. Some of the routes will be on the road, in designated bike lanes, and some will be on traffic-free routes. Several routes are in place already, such as St Werburghs bike path. This bike path is now a popular route for commuters and parents on school runs. Each month over 5,800 cycle journeys are now made on the path. That’s
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an increase of about 2,000 journeys. It doesn’t stop there, Cycling City are helping with events, working with schools and businesses, providing training workshops and helping to fund community projects. As well as this, several traffic calming measures have been implemented to give cyclists priority on certain roads, 20mph speed limit areas in Bristol have lowered traffic speeds and helped people to cycle with confidence. Improvements have been made to sites where a high number of accidents occur. More Advanced Stop Lines have been installed at traffic lights offering cyclists a real advantage over queuing traffic. Plus there are signage improvements that each council is making to encourage residents to find the bike paths nearest to them. Look out for the blue signs that point the way to your nearest bike path. There are also now 900 new parking stands in the city, with a further 1100 to come next year. It seems the £11.4 million is being spent in all the right places to encourage more cyclists in the region. But, getting ‘on yer bike’ can be expensive to the individual. This is an obvious draw back for some, but the government have thought of this and are offering tax breaks to employers looking to offer incentives to employees. Companies like Cycle Scheme have been set-up to help. “The Cycle to Work Initiative is a salary sacrifice scheme which gives you the chance to save on the cost of a new bike as well as security and safety equipment to go with it. The way salary sacrifice schemes work is that you give up part of your salary and receive an equivalent benefit that is exempt from Income Tax and National Insurance. What does this mean in practice? Well, technically it’s your employer that buys the bike. You hire the bike and equipment from them, and you pay them back the cost of the bike from your gross salary. You save on Tax and NI payments, saving you money over the hire period. VAT can also be claimed back, and this saving is usually passed on by employers, unless they are not able to – for example in the
O WEAR
he past. This year it's all on your bike. Don't you new black!
Case study Helen Steele of Ashley Down tells us how her journey has been improved: “I live fairly close to Muller Road, where the St Werburghs bike path starts. When it was built I was intrigued enough to get my bike out and have a go. “I realised I could get all the way to the shops at Cabot Circus on my bike without going on busy roads. Now I do the journey regularly. I don't have to catch the bus and I never get stuck in traffic jams.”
ot wearing anything too et caught in your chain. ting in a helmet if you eel more confident - or eally fast! You’ll want to ther than thick heavy breathable fabrics too ess hot that way. back pack we some panniers.
NFO
urse, a coaching session p, contact 0117 922 2877 bybike.info/get-cycling
ike shop at info/buying-a-bike
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case of universities and NHS trusts.” So, the Cycling City project is a fantastic initiative and with new routes opening all the time it’s hard not to see the benefits of ditching the car. To book a skills course, a coaching session or to request a map, contact 0117 922 2877 or visit www.betterbybike.info/ get-cycling. Find your nearest new and secondhand bike shop at www.betterbybike.info/buying-a-bike.
Websites to check out www.betterbybike.info It’s the place with everything you need to get on your bike and out riding in Bristol, Bath, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, the information you need is there. www.cyclescheme.co.uk The website of the number one provider of tax-free bikes for the Government’s Cycle to Work initiative – that’s us – this is the one-stop shop for both employers and employees interested in taking part. www.ctc.org.uk CTC – the Cyclists’ Touring Club – has about 60,000 members covering all kinds of cycling, not just touring. Their website covers everything from learning to ride on the road safely to lists of cycle-friendly establishments such as pubs and guest houses, and there’s a section devoted solely to commuting. www.britishcycling.org.uk Your first port of call if you’re interested in cycling competitively, the website of the governing body of cycle sport in Britain also covers recreational riding and travel too.
There’s some good commuting advice to be gleaned from this site too, including some kit-buying information. www.bike-events.com Fancy a challenge? Bike Events organise loads of fund-raising and recreational rides of all levels of difficulty. Something like the 29-mile London to Windsor ride is suitable for families while the Wessex 100 will test the more experienced. Go online to check out their calendar.
Local Clubs Leisure riding Bristol Cycling Campaign www.bristolcyclingcampaign.org.uk/diary Bristol South Cycling Club - www.bristolsouthcc.co.uk Clevedon and District Road Club - www.cdrc.cc Cycle Bristol CTC - www.ctcwest.org.uk/bristol Recycle your Sundays (Bath) - www.bathrys.org.uk Cycle Bag East - www.cyclebageast.btik.com CycleOut Bristol - The local LGBT cycling club www.cycleoutbristol.ning.com/events Road racing Bristol and District Triathletes (Bad Tri) - www.badtri.org Bristol Development Squad - www.bristol-cycling.com North Somerset Cycling Development Club www.n-somersetcycling.co.uk Severn Road Club - www.severnroadclub.co.uk Mountain biking and BMX Bristol BMX Club - www.bristolbmxclub.com University of Bath Cycling Club - www.bathunimtb.com Bristol Mountain Bike Club - www.bristolmountainbikeclub.co.uk The Cheesy Riders (Bristol’s laid back mountain biking club) www.thecheesyriders.com Bristol Trails Group - www.bristoltrailsgroup.com
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FILM reviews
big screen shutter island
Scorsese is back with his best movie mate, good old Leonardo DiCaprio in this movie based on the 2003 novel. Its1954. Teddy Daniels (Leonardo DiCaprio) travels to an asylum for the criminally insane. Daniels is supposedly investigating the mysterious disappearance of a murderess from her cell, but also wants to confront an imprisoned arsonist he believes was responsible for the death of his wife. This movie also stars Ben Kingsley who I personally think did the best job with his role, as the rest of the cast seemed to think that being cast in a Scorsese movie means you don’t have to try very hard with your acting. I’m not saying the cast weren’t good, just a little... Lazy perhaps? The movie was visually beautiful and it left a dark haunting feeling behind. It’s everything you would expect from such a stylist. Another gripe was that it was too long, I was starting to fidget towards the end, which when it did come felt hurried. It was a Scorsese film all over, just maybe Scorsese on an off day? I’m not saying it wasn’t good, just not great like it could have been. Shutter Island is worth a watch, but don’t expect the best.
I love you Phillip Morris Jim Carey plays a family man with some big secrets. He’s a gay con man. After deciding to live the life he’s been hiding he
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ends up in jail for fraud where he meets, and falls in love with, Phillip Morris, played by the brilliant Ewan McGregor. (He’s exceptional at camp running) Now I will admit I went into this with a lot of haste. I wanted to see the film but my loathing of Carey was holding me back. My only exceptions were Eternal Sunshine and the Truman show, until now. Yes he’s still over the top in every sense to the verge of sometimes nearly taking over but in this I found it worked. (and apparently he worked for cheap rates to get this film made, bless him) Maybe its because I’m a sucker for something that’s based on a true story, but I found it, funny, sweet, modern, and touching. In my eyes most certainly worth a watch if your in the mood for fun. I Love You Phillip Morris, well I certainly like you a lot.
Last Five Girlfriends This is the British story of loser in love Duncan who revisits his last five girlfriends to find out what were wrong and what that L word actually means. This film had so much potential that I was looking forward to it. But I was sorely let down. The acting was ropey at times and it was trying much too hard, I’ll admit it had ambition and the premise is a good one. But it just didn’t work for me. I found the lead hard to care about, and to be brutally honest it was just a great big ball of... nothingness. It didn’t even make me angry enough to want to rant about and I like to rant. My last five girlfriends... do yourself a favor learn from the oh so much better ‘top five breakups’ in the brilliant High Fidelity.
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we start parties How did it all begin for you boys on your power pop electro mission? Elys - Well, we came together from various different bands around the country. What drew us together was the fact that we were all ‘un-inspired’ by the music making it to the mainstream. We wanted to do it our way, for ourselves, with no limitations and no one telling us how or what to do... music at the time seemed very ‘one-way’, but as a band were more of a roundabout. Where do you take your inspiration for your song writing? Matt - My inspiration comes from the bands I listen to and the place that I am in my life. Ross - Ne-yo! Dave - I take influences mainly from all the things which happen in my life and I use songwriting to elaborate my feelings. Ben - Mine would have to be my favorite song of that time. If i like the way a chorus is sung, or played, then I would use that as a guideline and work form there. Elys - Personally, anything with emotion. music is meant to be honest, and whenever I hear an honest song, it really inspires me. You have just released your First E.P ‘It’s not the winning’ was it all hard work or bloody good fun along the way? Elys - bloody good fun! It was hard, but it’s not ‘work’ if you’re willing to spend every minute dreaming about it. We learned a lot from recording this EP, namely that it wasn’t easy! But it has definitely given us a taste for more. Ross - Bit of both for me, at times it took skill to push through the writing block, but it was definitely worth it for the excitement and inspiration. Dave - Its one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do, but when your surrounded by all the people you love it makes it all worth while. Ben - as a band it really tested us. Getting a debut CD out for people to hear is a lot of pressure, we all had ideas and goals which we wanted to achieve with this EP and I genuinely think it’s achieving them. You guys don’t just play live but you DJ as well? How do you link both of these projects together? Ross - It in our name! Our music is really dance-influenced already so wouldn’t sound out of place in a dance club. Elys - Our whole point was to take certain elements from the various genres out there, and create a sort of mix-tape that everyone finds something to like within it. Dance is a huge part of our sound, so it was very natural for us to incorporate dj’ing into our band. Ben - we grew up on different influences, we love playing live but we also love having a good night out at a club. We like to fuse these ideas together and push the boundaries of what a band can do What’s on your guys iPods right now? Elys - incubus, empire of the sun, Kids in Glass Houses, Example, Ross - Two Door Cinema Club, Noisia, Spor, Underoath, Chase & Status, Justin Bieber. Dave - Snow Patrol (& Gary Lightbody), Plan B, Foo Fighters Matt - Underoath, Kids In Glass Houses , Deaf Havana,
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Confide Ben - I’ve recently downloaded the latest Hadouken album, it’s really well mixed by Noisia, and love I the vibe they have on their tracks. Your following seems to be getting bigger and bigger as the months lead up for summer, have you got any summer tours or festivals on the horizon? Band - we have a few in the pipeline, but cant give any more away than that really. but we do hope to see our following support us on our summer tour. we have the best fans ever! ...fact! Who would you give a right arm to play a gig with? Matt - Blink 182, because they were the band that started it all for me. Dave – I’ll have to agree with Matt and say Blink, their awesome live! Ross - Enter Shikari! Because we have a similar sound and they put on a sick show! Elys - Taking Back Sunday. I love the simple-ness, yet effectiveness of their sound and they have an amazing live show! Ben - busted on a reunion tour, now THAT would be amazing! Where do you guys see yourselves in the next 2 years? Have you enough faith in the record industry to make it as signed band? Ben - I’d be happy if we could look back and be proud of what we’ve accomplished. We’re making music, which is what we love to do, and I’d be happy if after 2 years, we were still doing it... and doing it well, regardless of being signed or not, I’d be happy if we could keep doing what we love. Matt - Supporting a world renowned act, or doing a World tour! Elys - rehab hopefully, (...just kidding). I would love to see us do the major festival tour around the UK! ...they’re just so much fun & I’ve always seen that as the pinnacle ever since I picked up a guitar. Ross - We definitely have the faith! There is no point in being in a band if you don’t believe in yourselves. Dave - Playing in front of the people that enjoy our music, and making them happy. If you could only play one song, for the last time on stage and never play an instrument again. What song would it be? Ben - That’s a wicked question, I would have to say, that Glee cover of The Journeys track “Don’t Stop, Believing” Elys - Incubus- “are you in” Ross - Thrice - “Under a Killing Moon” Dave - Twinkle Twinkle little Star ...classic! Matt - Adams Song by Blink 182
We Start Parties EP is available to buy on, Amazon, iTunes, Last.fm and eMusic. We Start Parties are currently working on tracks to follow the EP which they hope to record later this year, it is due to be released early 2011.
we start parties
Interviewed
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MUSIC REVIEWS
johnny brookes music reviews Bleed From Within
Motion City Soundtrack
Scottish metallers bleed from within have achieved an awful lot in their short existence. Having toured with other rising stars such as Ignominious Incarceration, and supporting heavyweight names such as Job For A Cowboy, The Black Dahlia Murder, and I Killed The Prom Queen. Add to this their appearance at Hammerfest and Download and you get some idea of the level this band have achieved.
The follow up to 2007’s “If It Kills Me” comes Motion City Soundtracks first full-length record on a major label. After numerous line up changes the band have settled down for this release.
Humanity
The first record to be released through Rising Records, “Humanity” is builds on and moves forward from their previous work and demonstrates and incredible sense of brutality and unrelenting aggression. This is metalcore/deathcore at its very finest. BFW do no shirk the pop sensibilities either, a theme that runs through their album, providing ridiculously catchy death metal riffs. Every track is searing with energy, broken only by the pounding beat downs, that spill out from the blast beat with precision. It would be wrong also not to mention how good Scott Kennedy’s vocals are. He effortlessly switches from extreme low, to ear splitting highs and pounding mids, with great rhythms and patterns. He really adds another dimension to the band. This is a truly awesome album from a band so young, and with such a bright future ahead of them. This is an album that would put a lot of established names to shame, and would not be out of depth among the higher echelons of the metal scene. Any self-respecting metal fan, go and get this now!
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My Dinosaur Life
Everything that the fans love about Motion City Soundtrack is evident on this new album, but it has been honed and progressed further. There is a heavier element introduced to their work, that fits in nicely without sacrificing any of the melody and pop that made the band so popular. There is definitely a crunchier and rawer sound coming from this record in comparison with previous works, offering a different aspect to their well-recognised sound. Single “Disappear” was released as a free download by the band as is a stand out track from the record. It evokes the earlier sounds of Jimmy Eat World, with raucous guitars complimented by a huge hook for the chorus. There is even a strange, almost surreal track entitled “ @!#?@!”, an angry attack on what seems like the bands former friends featuring the line “Go fuck yourselves, leave us alone”. Although the lyrical content of the song is aggressive in nature it is delivered within the constraints of a catchy melody, giving it a very likeable quality. There is a sensitive acoustic ballad in “Stand Too Close that builds up to a nice crescendo, showcasing a more radio friendly and softer side to the record, that still impresses with its songwriting prowess. This album has been a long time coming for the legions of Motion City Soundtrack fans, and I can confidently say that they will not be disappointed. The band have not ditched their sound, nor have they remained stuck in it, they have progressed and its great to hear.
On the Agenda 1st April - Launch Party - Special Guest DJ Kate Lawler 4th April Bank Holiday Sunday - Hed Kandi - Tokyo 8th April - Glit & Glow Launch Party 9th April - Sintillate Launch Party Saturdays at PrivĂŠ plays host to a wealth of guest and resident DJs, each of who are in tune with a music policy that resonates exceptional music.
PrivĂŠ 13-15 King Street, Bristol, BS1 4EF
www.privebristol.com
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DANCE MUSIC - renny c
empathy W
ow, the sun is out but it’s still cold. At least we are on the road to summer, the evenings are getting lighter and there is no need to wear that big winter coat that you crack out every year. The parties are going to be a lot livelier due to the sun putting its hat on and people coming out of hibernation. I’ve been making sure that my sunglasses are dust and lint free for the following months; I just hope I get to wear them everyday until the dreaded winter comes back! This month is a very special month for me as I will be reviewing a club night very close to my heart and will be interviewing the head honcho himself Stuart Wilkinson. This is an Empathy special. I hope I can convey my feelings through this article. Enjoy! Empathy has been holding events for almost 9 years, with an array of djs and producers across the board. The likes of Nick Warren, James Holden, Timo Maas, Adam Freeland and James Zabiela have graced the booth and are set for many more. The Empathy brand covers a broad spectrum of genres ranging from electro, breaks, tech and progressive house, Empathy has always been a messy party since the classic Thursday night Summer Specials on the terrace at Bar Latino, the Empathy all nighters in its 2nd home in Prague and to the mental boat parties down the river Avon. Emerging in the Bristol clubbing scene in 2001 holding weekly Thursday nights at Bar Latino until the club closed in Easter 2005, after two successful boat parties moved to the iconic
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underground haunt Timbuk2. Now on the move again, they have had various parties across Bristol with the highlight being the One + One tour with James Zabiela & Nic Fanciulli at blue mountain club. Empathy continues to pride itself on booking world class DJs combined with great lighting and visuals in some of the finest venues on offer. Renny C: So Stuart, Can you tell us the ethos of what empathy is all about? Stuart Wilkinson: Its about going to a club, getting to know people, all being there for the same reason and understanding why they are all there, that combined with great dance music. Its always been about pushing new music, every Thursday for the first 4 years there were many djs touring around the world to play at huge clubs, many came and played at Empathy for next to nothing just to fill the time here and because it was a good gig! We were lucky in that respect, its not always been about the high profile artists its also been about the local talent, I’ve seen many djs play at Empathy and go on to play at huge clubs and have some amazing productions. So we try to touch base with everything really, the main thing though is making sure the people coming to Empathy the best night that I can give them, its the finer things that make a difference. RC: You have been running Empathy for the last 9 years; most nights only have a short run. What is your formula for having a long running successful night? SW: You have to realise how much hard work is involved right from the very start, you can never do enough to make people realise what your doing, even taking a few chances, it has to be done, its also about creating a image for the night, look after your guests and do everything to show they are being looked after. There are times when it gets tough but it happens from time to time. I’m happier now than ever. I have some memories of some amazing nights and I’m sure the 9th Birthday will be the most memorable and not because it’s the most recent. RC: You have had a fair few artists pass through the booth; do you have any particular favourites? SW: Yes I’ve have something like 500 djs pass through the doors. The general stigma about egos and stuff like that I’ve never really experienced first hand, so I don’t have any real stories of having to pay a bill from a hotel for a TV that was
thrown out of djs hotel window. Nick Warren has to be one of the nicest guys and of course Danny Howells, but technically I would say James Zabiela stands out, the hype he caused all 4 times he played was insane, even my Dad danced to him! RC: How does it feel to have had two of your previous residents fly the nest and become successful in their own right? SW: Well Jody (wisternoff) was already hugely successful with WayOutWest when he became resident in 2003 and Jim (rivers) was coming down to hear Jody. After he gave me a few mix tapes to review, Jim started warming up for him and later became a resident. Jody has just released his 4th artist album with WayOutWest and Jim has just released his Global Underground NuBreed compilation and both have progressed to a really good place and both guys are playing all over the world. RC: You have had a fair bit of exposure being a dj and promoter, what role do you prefer? SW: I don’t really mind, I enjoy promoting and the build up to the night, the bigger nights with more of a bigger budget can be stressful which is all part of the buzz, a bit like a gambling addiction, but when the night comes and it gone really well it doesn’t get much better when you play the last few hours to a busy dance floor. Some of the best times have been playing outside, at Festivals, boat parties and of course the terrace at the original home Bar Latino. RC: What do you do to relax/have fun? SW: Exercise is up there right now, football, cycling, squash, drinking and getting smashed. RC: What does the future hold for empathy/Stuart Wilkinson? SW: Well after I’ve done this interview, I’m going to order a taxi, head into town meet some friends and get smashed. Then I’ve got my monthly Digital event at Dojo, then on Saturday 27th March. It’s the very special Empathy 9th Birthday at our old home Timbuk2. I’m really looking forward to seeing Empathy back. Other than that I have Unity event on Saturday 22nd May at Lakota and various gigs in Bristol, Cardiff, Birmingham and London. RC: Where can we find out more information about empathy? SW: There is a Facebook group, so all you need to do is search for “Empathy” in the search box. You can also find info on the MySpace page http://www.myspace.com/empathyclub
I hope you enjoyed the article this month. Remember, you can catch Greg Shaw, Troy “Da Hybrid” Brown and yours truly hosting our Bi-weekly Radio show/podcast Esophonic on Chicagohousefm.co.uk. For more information search for “Esophonic” on Facebook or subscribe via iTunes. If you have any queries or suggestions you can contact me via Email: Renny@djrennyc.co.uk
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music reviews
dj squire Last Night (Kinkos) Remix Omarion Ft. Snoop Dogg
THA VILL ft KELE LE ROC MORE THAN FRIENDS
Omarion has teamed up with the legend West Coast rapper Snoop Dogg. The song is taken from the singer’s latest album “Ollusion” which is in stores now. I would say it’s a blow you mind kind of track but its pretty much a typical ‘head bop’ level effort which I expected more from his 4 album. There is not much to be said about the song other than the fact that O still has a good voice. Besides the music he’s now the newest judge of the hit show “America’s Best Dance Crew” on MTV.
Now I know your thinking who, but don’t be mistaken this man has worked across the industry with many including Akon, Flo Rida, the game and even The Saturdays. No stranger to adversity recent loss of his brother to suicide (2007) and the unsloved murder of his father (1997) Tha Vill has not let anything stop him from living his dream of becoming a known force in the music industry.
Omarion released his third studio album “Ollusion” in January 2010 with EMI. This is Omarion’s first solo effort in over three years, but unfortunately the results in sales have not really impressive. Omarion for me though is hands down an impressive talent and through his history of work you can see this. On a positive note the former B2K leader tried to be creative through out the album. For an ‘I-pod on the beach’ kind of track it works for me. Give credit where it’s due…. The big O still has it.
The US Chicago born don living in LA teams up with double MOBO winner Kele le Roc for this track ‘More then friends’. Its definitely got something on it to get you hooked and with a voice like Kele over it, I was left hypnotized. Further club mixes come courtesy of US dance producer P-Rida, with a typically slammin funky refix from London’s DJ Mappa. Bonus track At It Again rounds off this smash package. Expect a video to follow real soon but just making you aware Tha Vill is coming to a radio station near you very soon.
Freak Music Video Estelle Ft. Kardinal Offishall
New Boyz ft Ray J - Tie Me Down
Living it large in the U.S and now working with more music talent producers and songwriters then I can even name. It’s a long way from London life but do you blame her. Anyway she back & Estelle has even premiered a music video for the song “Freak” featuring rapper Kardinal Offishall directed by Nabil Elderkin and has already had a little bad press as she makes the ‘freak’ expression shown along the lines of Lady Gaga, Rhianna & Ke$ha. I guess craziness sells these days!!?? “Freak” produced by David Guetta will be featured on the songstress’ upcoming album called “All of Me”, which will be out this summer. Freak is a banging, up tempo and catchy track to start with too. Its samples the classic soul anthem lyrics from SOUL2SOUL ‘Back to life’ and just shows her British soul roots still cant be taken away. Mainstream club DJ’s will have to give it up and admit Estelle is going back in their music.
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I admit. ‘Your a Jerk’ became one of those annoying tracks you didn’t like but you sang constant but hey it was a club singing track and blew up, stemming from the U.S Jerk dance style made with the song. Now the new album is out, ‘Skinny Jeanz and a Mic’ and featuring the new single, ‘Tie Me Down’; due for a UK release this spring on Warner Bros. Records. ‘Tie Me Down’ is the second single to be taken from the album and features R&B singer Ray J. So far, the song has peaked at #22 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the duo’s second top 30 US hit at the tender age of 17!! On this single, Ray-J gets his auto tune on with this but definitely one for the windows down for the sunny days ahead. Click those fingers and enjoy.
every thursday
the world is our club party classics / rnb / house / electro
weekend vibe weekday prices double vodka & mixer £2.50 | selected drinks £1.50 | 2-4-1 cocktails all night
The
Ranch Bar & Club
9 Park St, Bristol, BS1 5NF
THE OFFICIAL PRE-BAR for cocoloco check out cocolocouk.com search cocoloco on facebook for more info.
The
Ranch WHITELADIES ROAD
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EYE.BRISTOL.arpil.2010
music scene
The Computers Outcry Collective Bullwhip AT The Croft 17th March 2010
T
here’s nothing better than a pleasant surprise. I rocked up to the Croft on the 17th March to check hang out at a gig with a mate I haven’t seen for a while.
Having reached an age where I’m musically stubborn, think I know everything and cynical of anybody younger than me playing in a band, my hopes weren’t high (for the bands, not the company). Arriving fashionably late, I strolled past the surprisingly stocked merch tables and into the main room to Outcry Collective 1,2,3,4’ing into their first song. Initially a drummer and 95% of a crowd down (drummer was in the bog), they pounded through each number regardless, gaining movement and bodies in the crowd as they progressed. Their early Every Time I Die-esque punk/metal provided Bristol with some half-time head bouncing bops and enough southern-fried riffs to help spice up a wet Wednesday evening. We then bowled into the front room for a cider and saw Bullwhip setting up their gear as we jostled for a space at the bar. Local artist Sepr was on the drums so we were both pretty intrigued to see what they had to offer. They smashed through a set of angular, heavy rhythm-based instrumentals with EYEZINE.CO.UK
minimal vocals, which quite literally let the music do the talking. Solid, musically apt and uncool in the most complimentary sense, this lot are one to watch. Ciders in hand, we smashed into the main room once more to see the headliners, Computers. Dressed entirely in white, the band took their positions on stage and kicked into their first song, except for frontman Alex who took position wherever the hell he fancied, mic stand and guitar in tow; a trend that continued throughout their repertoire. Computers had that kind of ‘smack round the face, damn they’re good’ sort of effect that some bands just have without necessarily meaning to. It’s the kind of music that denim, dirt and quiffs were invented for. Their hardcore bits and stage presence reminded me of The Bronx, the rock n’ roll bits reminded me of New Bomb Turks and the vocalist conjured up images of what Buddy Holly be like as a nasty, snarling modern day punk. I suddenly began to strongly consider spending eight of my unallocated gold nuggets on that Phil Collins’-face-featuring t-shirt of theirs I had half ignored and half sniffed at on my way in and realised that there are still cool bands out there to discover. Every self-appointed music scholar/fool needs that from time to time. Chatting to them after, they excitedly told me that Speedo from Rocket From the Crypt would be flying them out to the US to record and produce their newest material the following week. If my trusty words aren’t seal of approval enough, then let that be. I don’t write about gigs very often due to aforementioned cynicism, so I would rate it as one ‘so good that I decided to review it’.
Call. 01179 272 850 Come and see us at our Cabot Circus store, we're on the top floor opposite 'The Entertainer'. You can also order online at www.iebristol.com, for same day delivery in Bristol.
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LAST MONTH / THIS MONTH Last Month - Words: Jason Smith
This Month
FRANK SHAKE TURNER DOWN F C rank Turner is an artist who lives for the road, giving the fans what they want repeatedly up and down the country and all over the world. But this time he did it big by taking over the Academy and selling every single ticket!
Last time I saw Frank, I had the pleasure of interviewing him on his U.K tour last summer. I remember sitting backstage in the Ansom Rooms sipping fruit tea with him, then half hour later he literally ripped up the stage. A professional by every measure. Since then a new album ‘poetry of the deed‘ that he managed to record in New York with his band in just one week and miles upon miles of touring. Which is reason enough to warrant a fan base of the size he has. The Academy was buzzing and full to the brim with die hard fans just wanting to get an inch closer to the stage. He gracefully took to the stage with his band, let out a raw from his voice and captured the crowd instantly. Then came thousands of fans singing along to every word, making every hair on my neck stand to attention. He sung every song with as much determination as the last putting every ounce of effort into each word he sang. With slight political anecdotes and comical stories his set was pure rock and roll. With obvious punk and metal influences shining through which you will not get from any acoustic singer songwriters this side of LA. The highlight for me was ‘Long live the queen’ from his second album Love Ire & Song. A song about a lost friend, a song close to his heart, a song that had obviously touched a huge array of fans, as many of the audience had a tears in their eyes. But I just couldn’t help notice everyone was smiling, a moment in time where it was cool to be emo during a song. Especially during a rock and roll show. Frank Turner I take my hat off to you, I’ve never been to a show with a crowd that would give their siblings away, just to sing one song on stage with you. If any one gets a chance go see Frank he will blow you away and if he doesn’t his crowd will! EYEZINE.CO.UK
ocktail creating, music and moves – throwing bottles around has never been so much fun! On April 11th The Living Room invites you down to the Millennium Square at the Harbourside for ‘Shake Down’, Bristol’s Biggest Flair & Mixology Competition of 2010! This is a chance, not only to watch new cocktails being created, but also to see some of the best Bar-Flair that the city and the country has to offer! With a top prize of £500 in cash the competitors will be going all out and our DJ and late bar will see us into the small hours! To just come along on the day and watch is free! Entry into Mixology Competition is £5 per person Entry into the Flair competition is £15 per person (All applicants must complete an application form and register on the day with payment of the above fee. The Living Room reserve the right to refuse admission.) Sponsored by Bacardi, Brugal and Sagatiba – this really is the best way to spend your Sunday! If you think you’d like to be a part of the action then contact The Living Rooms’ Event Organiser Emma 01179 253 993 bristolpa@thelivingroom.co.uk for more information or for an application. The Living Room Explore Lane The Harbourside Bristol BS1 5TY Tel: 0117 925 3993 bristol@thelivingroom.co.uk www.thelivingroom.co.uk
The first Sundae of every month. Find us on Facebook.
www.ilovecomfy.com
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local business
dj dan the business man E
YE have always kept tabs on Propaganda, we’ve always been inspired by the hype and over the last three years we’ve witnessed the massive success of DJ Dan and his awesome team. Many of you will have been touched by Propaganda, be it attending an event or marveling at the ‘66 splitty cruising down Park Street. We’ve managed to catch a few words to understand the business behind Propaganda and Oasis’ favorite DJ...
How did Propaganda Start? I launched Propaganda when I was only 20, I was a student at Bristol University and started the night with £250 from my student loan in a small 200 capacity club on Park Street. I did all the promotion for it and DJed the whole night alone. When I started it I never once envisaged that it would become the full time job for myself, let alone the full time job for ten other people who all work for Propaganda across the country. Propaganda is now the UK’s biggest indie night with over 10,000 people attending our club nights every week, we have seven weekly club nights across the country and are about to take Propaganda international with the launch of a new weekly Saturday night in Dublin. I’m still based in Bristol and love the city, Bristol Propaganda is really special to me as it’s the first night that I launched and it is the only night that I DJ at every week. We have moved venues three times and are now every
EYEZINE.CO.UK
Wednesday night at Syndicate, one of the cities largest venues. It’s amazing to think that we started in one of the smallest venues in the city and have grown to one of the largest. As well as Propaganda I also promote Ramshackle which is every Friday at o2 Academy. So, was Propaganda your first event brand? Propaganda was the first club night I launched, I’d previously been the drummer in a band which I also managed which I think gave me a bit of experience in promotion and managing. How many people are working on the events with you now? When I began the night it was just me doing everything with the occasional help of my friends, we now have a team of over ten full time staff and around two hundred people that work occasionally for Propaganda across the country as well as a large DJ team. I’d always previously employed people I’d known for our full time positions. However last year for the first time we advertised our full time job vacancies, it was really strange as I found myself in the position of having to interview people having never been to a job interview myself! We have a really good team of full time staff and DJs and they really help to run and support the night. Do you see yourself as a business person more than a DJ these days? I never started Propaganda as a business, I was always passionate about music and loved indie and started the night
as a hobby. It was a strange transition when the night grew and inevitably became a business, it had always been fun but as it became a business I found myself bored by payroll schemes and paperwork! However once I got over the hurdles of running a new business I began to really enjoy the business side and the challenges I faced. I think people just think I can turn up to a club and DJ and that’s all I do all week. However it’s the weekly paperwork and organisation of the club nights that takes up most of my time. I work over 100 hours a week split between DJing and the organisation of the nights, people rarely believe I work that many hours until they spend some time with me and witness it for themselves. Propaganda is constantly growing and it’s the excitement of its continual growth that keeps me going, I don’t mind working so much as it gives me a lot of fulfillment seeing something that I started grow this much. I still love Propaganda and DJing at the nights and still see myself very much as a DJ. On most weeks I will DJ four nights a week and I’ve been lucky enough to DJ around the world and have played sets in New York, Ibiza and Barcelona. I went on tour last year with Oasis DJing their aftershow parties on their final stadium tour, I found myself DJing in amazing venues like Wembley Stadium and Cardiff Millennium Stadium which was an amazing experience, Oasis have been my favorite band since I was 15 and it was incredible to become their chosen DJ. That’s pretty amazing. Can you tell us about the VW AdVan we all see around Bristol? Our VW advan is a 1966 Split Screen Van, it was originally a pick up truck and we had the advertising board custom built for the back. We’ve tried to keep the advert board in line with the original vehicle with a curved roof rather then sticking an ugly A-Board on the back. I’ve always loved VW Split Screen Vans, it costs us a lot to keep it on the road with the millage that it does and we’ve had to replace virtually every part on the van but I think it’s such a great advert for Propaganda that it’s worth it. What outsiders have been most important to your business success? I have a really good team of full time staff running Propaganda, they all have a real passion and love for the night. Everyone involved with it believes strongly in what we’re doing and we all want to provide the best club night possible for our punters. We also have a lot of love for Propaganda from our punters, I’ve always believed that it’s a club night’s punters that make the club night, it’s only thanks to them that Propaganda has been able to grow as much as it has done and it’s often due to them that we’ve launched in a city as we’ve been contacted by one of our regulars who have moved to another city without a Propaganda and felt that city really needed us there. What three pieces of advice would you offer entrepreneurs starting out today? I think you have to believe in what you are doing, I have always loved the club nights that I’ve put on and still do, I think
it’s very important to have a passion and love for your business as you’re going to spend so much time on it. It’s also important to treat things as a business, people always told me you have to treat a club night as a business as so many promoters don’t however I think it’s really important that you do. Finally not every business idea works, it’s very easy to pour money into projects which don’t work and will never work, sometimes it’s hard to acknowledge that something won’t work, especially when you’ve invested a lot of money in it but leaving an idea before you waste more money on it is important, I’ve made that mistake too many times! If you were to start another business, what might it be? I’d definitely still like to do something in the music industry, music has always been my passion and always will be. Having said that I have no intention to stop Propaganda and launch another business any time soon! What plans do you have now to expand your business further? We intend to launch Propaganda in several other cities later this year including a new weekly night in London. It’s a very exciting time for us at the moment. Any plans for more of the “mini festival” events in the future? We did our first Mini Festival in Bristol last year with around 4000 people split between four venues, it was an amazing event and I’d certainly like to do something similar again. Finally, your current top 5 tracks to play? That’s a hard question! I’ll go with... 1. You’ve Got The Love - Florence & The Machine 2. Sweet Disposition - Temper Trap 3. Sex On Fire - Kings Of Leon 4. In For The Kill - La Roux 5. Always Stay Too Long - Plan B Thank you very much Dan!
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mad hatter feature
MAD HATTER A
lice and Wonderland is in the Cinemas at this precise time, and amongst the hype we’ve managed to steal a few words from Mr Jonty Depp who is now playing the Mad Hatter himself!
We know you as the Mad Hatter, but what is your name and where do you come from? My name is Tarrant Hightopp – the last remaining member of the Hightopp Clan and I was born in a place called Witzend where the clan made top hats for all of Wonderland. How old were you when you made your first hat? I became my father’s apprentice at 14 but I made my first hat when I was 10 years old – and it was a top hat– not as magnificent as the one I wear today mind you. What is your favourite type of hat? A boater...no, a bonnet... (Hatter becomes more animated)... cloche, dunce hat, death cap, coif, snood, barboosh, pugree, yarmulke, cockle-hat, porkpie, tam-o’shanter, billycock, bicorn, tricorn, bandeau, bongrace, fan-tail, nightcap, garibaldi or fez!!! Apart from yourself, who is your favourite hatter? I do like traditional hat makers on the whole. But there is a man called PhilipTreacy who makes some fantastical creations I must say. Your left thumb is bandaged - how did you hurt it? That’s something I would rather not talk about if you don’t mind. Would you rather be a novel or a poem? Whilst it would be novel to be a novel... if I were a poem, then we’d celebrate with a jeroboam! But being a tree is more fun than a poem, for trees they are filled with xylem and phloem! And whilst preface and prelude may help to allude, one can flatter the hatter with poem and proem!
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So I think I would enjoy being a tree instead – for one can branch out and leave if necessary! (Hatter starts giggling) So, do you think you’re clever? Compared with whom? What would you do if I were a raven? I would compare you to a writing desk.... and find that you both come with inky quills! Is it morally wrong to attempt to climb a mountain? Only if you haven’t asked the mountain’s permission first! And climbing a mountain at a steady pace is like a patient child on Christmas Eve – both require not peaking (peeking) too early!!! (Suppressed chuckling from the Hatter) Instead of politicians, why don’t we let the managers of IKEA run the country, agree or disagree, why? You’re not making any sense at all – I have no idea what an IKEA is – unless it is a mis-spelt IDEA?
How do you organise a successful revolution? One must look “around “... and take “turns” to lead your troops! Either that or dress in a kilt and adopt a Glaswegian accent! Why is there salt in the sea? Because if it were spread all over the land it would be about 500 feet thick! What is your favourite kind of tea? Why a PAR-TY of course!(Hatter chuckles) Can you demonstrate the famous Futterwacken dance for us please? One can only Futterwacken when the moment is right. But I can tell you it starts in the left foot, then takes over the right foot and it moves right up through you to the top of your hat! But don’t lose your head in the excitement – that’s the secret!
Photo: Jesse Karjalainen
shark-finn.com
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ARTS
shift eye T
his month we were lucky enough to delve into the brain of one of Bristol best up and coming Photographers to find out exactly how he does it and why he does it. Ladies and Gentlemen we give you Zachary Saitoti AKA Shifteye.
Have you always been creative, what were your main influences growing up? Well, I’d like to think I have been mostly creative in my short spell of a life. I found my interest in drawing whilst in Primary school, which later evolved into fine art once in High school. I remember always obsessing over the tiniest of details whenever I began to draw or paint, I really loved photo realistic drawings and surrealist art. How did you find yourself with a camera in your hand, where did it all start? Actually started out as an obsession with disposable cameras… at any given time I’d always have a pack of 4 of the little beauties at the ready.
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How would you describe your photographic style? Hmm, I’d say emotive, often dramatic with dark undertones and sometimes playful. I love adding deep contrasts and high saturations to my work, from fashion to landscape, from music to portrait. What brought you to work and live in Bristol? Do you think Bristol offers a good platform for aspiring photographers? Initially it was a hedonistic student lifestyle and an eclectic music culture that drew me in. Now that the former is all but a foggy memory; the contacts I’ve made, friendships I’ve forged, the secret locations I’ve scouted and amazing creative prospects looming are what keep me in this fair city. Bristol offers many a great opportunity for any artist, be it photographer, illustrator, sculptor or musician. This little big, urban bohemia of a city is very welcoming to the arts, with a plethora of galleries, performance and visual arts arenas, open mic night venues and recording studios dotted all over the place. No matter your weapon of choice, you will find a niche. Can you remember your first commissioned brief as a professional photographer?
Not necessarily my first, but perhaps one of my first high profile commissions was from, Bristol based dubstep record label Soul Motive Records, about three to four years ago. They asked me to create a photography/ graphics based piece for the cover art of their first release, featuring TRG and Bristol dubstep legend Joker… I’ve have since had the privilege of working on cover artwork for all the label’s releases to date. How did you find the transition between finishing University and entering the big bad world of freelance? Not as painful as I imagined fortunately. Whilst at University I kept doing the odd freelance work here and there and showed my face to various networking events. By the time University was over I had made enough contacts to keep me fairly busy and so wasn’t too idle. What words of advice would you give someone wanting to go down the same path as yourself? No one, and I do mean NO ONE, actually gives fudge about any of your formal education at all. At the end of the day your portfolio and it’s presentation, be it online or physical, will let a client or employer know within 20 seconds if you are the one for the job. Presentation is EVERYTHING! Where are you at the moment with your photography, have you got any surprises up your sleeve? Currently I have been working really hard on beefing up my fashion and surrealist photography portfolios. I’ve been working closely with fellow photographer and creative director Max McClure on some really exciting, unusual ideas that will be coming to fruition very soon. I’ve also teamed up with designers and musicians to create some fantastic visual treats, all coming very soon to a gallery near you. Joining the Fiasco Design team is a step in a fairly, creatively lucrative direction for me. The entire team comprises of some really impressive portfolios and a client list to match, so I am certainly looking forward to working with them. What should we look out for in the future? I’ve got several things in the pipeline at the moment… In just a matter of weeks I shall be exhibiting some of my new work with five fellow photographers, as part of a photography collective called F.Six. The self-titled exhibition is a showcase of a range of new work, from emotive surrealist portraits, dramatic vacant landscapes to thought provoking social documentary photography (The 2 Degrees Gallery (off Picton St., Bristol), Friday 21st May –Thursday 27th May). [f-six.tumblr.com] Additionally between now and Thursday 30th of September, fundraising guru Sally Louise Hall and I shall be combining our efforts to put together and bring you “The Wild Child Fashion Show” at the Paintworks (Bath Rd.), this hopefully be the first of many. [wildchildfashionshow.blogspot.com]
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food & drink
cook with us Deli Pasta Salad Serves 4 / Ready in 20-30 minutes
Ingredients 300g farfalle (pasta bows) 200g frozen peas 1 large tomato 10 sundried tomatoes in oil 2 tbsp olive oil 2 tsp white wine vinegar 1 garlic clove large handful fresh basil leaves 85g pack prosciutto or salami Boil the pasta in salted water for 8 minutes then add the peas, return the water to the boil and cook for 2 minutes more until the pasta and peas are tender. Tip into a colander over the sink, cool the pasta and peas under the cold tap then drain really well. While the pasta is boiling roughly chop the tomato and put in a food processor with half the sun-dried tomatoes, the olive oil, vinegar, garlic and about 8 basil leaves. Season with plenty of salt and freshly ground pepper then whizz until smooth. Tip into a large salad bowl. Add the pasta and peas to the dressing, roughly slice the rest of the sun-dried tomatoes and add to the pasta with the remaining basil leaves. Tear in the prosciutto or salami and toss everything together. Pile into bowls and, if possible, eat outside.
Cajun burgers with avocado salsa Serves 4 / Ready in 25 minutes
Ingredients
EYEZINE.CO.UK
8 tsp Cajun seasoning 4 good quality organic burgers 1 ciabatta , sliced into 8 1 diced avocado bunch salad onions , thinly sliced (spring onions) olive oil 1 lime , zested and juiced 2 tomatoes , deseeded and chopped small bunch coriander , roughly chopped Mix all the salsa ingredients in a bowl. Cover and store in the fridge for a few hours to allow the flavour to develop. Rub 1 tsp Cajun seasoning all over the burgers. Grill or barbecue for 5-6 minutes each side until thoroughly cooked. Lightly toast the slices of bread on each side. Place each beefburger on a bread slice and top with the salsa. Serve with a green salad.
Baked vanilla apricots Serves 4 / Ready in 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients unsalted butter for the dish 800g apricots , halved and stoned 2 tbsp golden caster sugar 1 unwaxed lemon , juiced and zested into strips 1 vanilla pod 200ml sweet white wine , such as Muscat Heat the oven to 180C/fan 160C/gas 4. Butter the inside of an ovenproof dish and add the apricots, cut-side up in a single layer and scatter the sugar over. Add the lemon juice and zest. Split the vanilla pod in half and tuck in among the fruit. Pour over the sweet wine and cook on the middle shelf of the oven for about 40 minutes until the fruit is tender and the liquid
gold brick house For the Panacotta
325 ml Milk 325 ml Double Cream 2 vanilla pods 100g Castor Sugar 4 gelatine leaves (we know, this is not a vegetarian dish) Place the cream, milk and vanilla and sugar into a medium sized pan and bring to the boil. Soak the gelatine leaves in cold water. When you mixture is boiling, remove from the heat and stir in now softened gelatine sheets. Allow to cool to room temperature. Once cool, pour a small amount into small ramekins, and place in the fridge. Allow to set for 2 hours. Don’t be tempted to take them out before this as they might still be runny!
For the rhubarb
300g of thinly sliced forced rhubarb 200g castor sugar The zest of 1 lemon In a bowl, mix together and leave in the fridge for 1 hour. This will draw the flavour from the rhubarb and create a delicious sauce. Please on a low heat until the Rhubarb is soft to the touch but not falling apart. Allow this to cool. It will now be ready to pour a small drizzle over each of your Panacotta. Enjoy!
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food & drink
H Bar Bistro COLSTON HALL
W
ith H Bar’s sleek, elegant and sophisticated interior I felt like I was going to be treated to some very special food and drink, thankfully the decor did not let me down. I started with the Bolinhos de Bacalhau in English salt cod croquettes with homemade tartar sauce. The taste was immense and the tartar complimented the fresh breaded cod perfectly with a simple salad to give the dish volume. Combinations of simple tastes, but when brought together impacts a strong ‘British’ flavour you don’t want to leave your mouth! The Wild Mushroom with white truffle oil, served with rocket and Parmesan was perfectly sized and presented. The rice was cooked to perfection with a hint of truffle oil piercing through with flavour. The Parmesan was of strong taste which went hand in hand with the wild mushrooms. A hearty risotto with masses of taste. My colleague opted for the Braised Lamb shoulder with Swede and carrot puree. The presentation was immaculate. Just from the look of it you could tell that much care and attention had gone into producing the dish, and it came through in its staggering taste. This all may seem quite gushing, however I cannot express enough the true value for money H Bar brings to the table. I would expect to pay more for food of this quality and would seriously recommend eating here, not only before a show at the Colston Hall or the Hippodrome, but any day of the week. The food was topped off with equally impressive desserts namely the caramel parfait with honeycomb and roast cashews, divine!
The Bistro main menu offers two courses for £13.95 and three courses for £15.95. To book a table call 0117 352 1151 or email bookings@thehbar.co.uk
EYEZINE.CO.UK
!
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t D e E xular keep
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Is this the best Burger in Bristol? You decide with our
2-4-1 offer.
Homemade steak burger with salad garnish, mayo and homemade chutney sat in a toasted seed bun. Valid from Tuesday to Friday, 12pm - 4pm. Offer closes 30th April 2010. QUOTE ‘EYE MAGAZINE’ when ordering!
168 Whiteladies Road . Bristol . BS8 2XZ . Tel: 0117 973 5922 . www.kingsarmsbristol.com
F R E E
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EYE.BRISTOL.arpil.2010
event listings 1st April 2010
Showcase Live Comedy Showcase Cinema De Lux Bristol, Bristol Showcase Live Comedy returns on Thursday nights to Showcase Cinema de Lux, Bristol.
2nd April 2010
10TH APRIL 2010 Craig Cambpell At The Lanes, Bristol From 8:00pm until 11:00pm £5.00 entry
10th April 2010
Do Easy LAB, Bristol Dubstep, Breaks, Fidget, Techno @ Lab 2nd April 2010 with Paul Bassrock, Jimige, General E Smith and friends
Nowt2Do 2nd Birthday Present The Herbaliser(Dj Set) Basement 45, Bristol Its our second birthday people. Yes Nowt2do has hit the the prime age of...2.
2nd April 2010
11th April 2010
Torque presents: Critical Records Basement 45, Bristol Torque invites label of the moment Critical Records back to Bristol with a mammoth line-up featuring some of the finest in the genre. We welcome back Torque reg
3rd April 2010
Relapse Lakota, Bristol Re-union of all the south west Techno pioneers. Major clubs and party organisers from the 90’s techno underground.
7th April 2010
Surface Unsigned Festival West Stage 1 The Thunderbolt, Bristol For further information and band line-ups please see www.surfaceunsigned.co.uk
8th April 2010
Plan B Anson Rooms Bristol ast Londoner Ben Drew could well be the most exciting MC this city has produced. He’s as likely to be playing indie venues or folk clubs as he is hip hop jams or raves or R&B gigs.
9TH APRIL 2010
U-TURN Golden Guinea Our new monthly DJ event where DJs will be invited to turn up and have a go at a scratch competition. It’s going to be a pretty casual affair with the chance to win a few drinks if you manage to get to the top of the leader board on the night. DJs will be spinning party beats all night. 8pm-12am free entry
EYEZINE.CO.UK
ShakeDown Flair and Mixology Competition The Living Room Bristol, Bristol Flair and Mixology Bartenders from around the country competing for prizes like £500 in Cash!Sponosred by Bacardi, Brugal and Sagatiba.
14th April 2010
Mos Def The Living Room Bristol, Bristol Flair and Mixology Bartenders from around the country competing for prizes like £500 in Cash! Sponosred by Bacardi, Brugal and Sagatiba.
15th April 2010 The Tempest Tobacco Factory Thursday 15th Apr 2010 From: 8:00PM
15th April 2010
HOOCHIE COOCHIE KABARET NIGHTS AT THE CIRCUS
16th April 2010
DJ Tom Bruton Bijou With DJ Craig Brown Friday 16th of April From: 9:00 PM
17 April 2010
Bocabar Anything from jazz, ambient or world music, and any hybrid in between.
18th April 2010
The Warehouse Live Music at The Old Duke Blue The Old Duke Live music at The Old Duke with blues and jazz bands every night.
20th April 2010
Eddie Martin’s Open Mic Night The Old Duke Eddie Martin performs a soulful blues acoustic set before handing the mic over to anyone brave en...
21st April 2010 Reef O2 Academy Bristol, Bristol
20th Apr 2010
Shakespears Sister + Nadine Shah O2 Academy Price: £14.00 advance Door time: 7.00pm
21st April 2010
The Bluetones - m/thebluetones Thekla Married To The Sea - m/ marriedtothesealion Doors 7.30pm / £13 adv
24th April 2010
Sandi Thom Price: £12.00 advance At Thekla, Bristol Saturday, 24 April 2010 From 7:00pm
26th April 2010
Lightning Seeds At Thekla, Bristol Monday, 26 April 2010 From 7:00pm This gig has been rescheduled from 15th March. Original tickets remain valid.
28th Apr 2010
Give It A Name Introduces is back with no-nonsense punk rockers The Swellers, as well as Anarbor, The Dangerous Summer, Rio and The Wild. O2 Academy Door time: 6.30pm Show time: TBC
29th Apr 2010
Hudson Mohawke Thekla Doors 7pm Curfew 10pm / £9 adv
29th Apr 2010
Alphabeat At Anson Rooms & Ar2 (Bristol University SU), Bristol Thursday, 29 April 2010 Over 14s only.
FASHION MUSIC SPORT SHOPPING
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Fine Art Original Paintings, Jewellery and Cards
Excellent and competative framing service A warm and friendly welcome at this vibrant studio gallery where Jean produces her work and arranges commissions with clients minimum opening Tuesday to Saturday 10:30 am to 5:30 pm. 13 Clifton Victorian Shopping Arcade, Boyce’s Avenue Clifton Village, Bristol BS8 4AA Tel 07926 196 978 www.jeanjonesgallery.com
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£
TOP april Discounts from eye
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• The Kings Arms
2-4-1 on Burgers from Tuesday - Friday, 12 - 4pm Valid until 30/04/2010 (Whiteladies Rd / Blackboy Hill)
• super tonic
20% off hair cuts Valid until 31/05/2010 (Victoria St / Cotham Rd)
Ah huh, we’ve also managed to negotiate a few sweet deals on your behalf. It’s the first momth we’ve done this so getting around everyone has been impossible. But, nobody we’ve asked has held back, and we’re pretty impressed with the generous offers some of the local businesses have been willing to provide.
• h bar bistro
To access the awesome discounts all you have to do is mention ‘EYE BRISTOL’ or better still show them this page and you’ll get access to some excellent money saving offers.
• C1 Chiropractic
If you want to offer our readers a treat (and have the power) then please email discounts@eyezine.co.uk to be considered.
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20% off your food bill, plus a glass of wine or soft drink for each person, (bring the voucher on page 45) Valid until 30/04/2010 (Colston Hall)
20% off trip preparation training session and massage. Usually £30.00 now £24.00 Valid until 30/04/2010 (Victoria St)
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(PANTONE 876 C plate)
are honoured to make available, from the following exclusive creators, eclectic, individual pieces that have been constructed with passion. Classic Hardware (USA) Arrogant Cat (UK) Get Cutie (UK) Revamp Productions (USA) Karina Handbags (UK) Aspinal of London (UK) Elizabeth Barnes (USA) Tiffini Elektra x (USA) Made UK (UK) Dogstone Designs (UK) Passionate about Vintage (UK) Valencias (USA) Alan Crawley Sculpture (UK) Gryphon New York (USA) Holly & Lil (UK) Alexis Bittar (USA) Domakaya (UK) Ruth Arthur Designs (UK) Maelus Angel Artist (FR) Laura Lees (UK) Crumpet England (UK) Jen & Tonic (UK) Azuni London (UK) Elisabeth Carmichael (UK) Ububoo (UK) Erica Weiner Jewelery (USA)
are honoured to make available, from the following exclusive creators, eclectic, individual pieces that have been constructed with passion. Classic Hardware (USA) Arrogant Cat (UK) Get Cutie (UK) Revamp Productions (USA) Karina Handbags (UK) Aspinal of London (UK) Elizabeth Barnes (USA) Tiffini Elektra x (USA) An eclectic fashion Made UK (UK) Boutique in Clifton Dogstone Designs (UK) Village for the Passionate about Vintage (UK) discerning shopper Valencias (USA) Brimley House, No 15 Portland Street, Clifton Alan Village, Bristol, United Kingdom BS8 4JA. Crawley Sculpture (UK) Telephone: 0117 970 6282 plunder@piratesandroses.com Gryphon New York (USA)
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