Removing the Taboo of predatory behaviour on a night out
Is this country safe enough for females?
Review: The Lathums at the O2 Academy
Features 10
Opinion 13
Music 22
Forge Press ISSUE 156 | MONDAY 25 OCTOBER 2021
THE UNIVERSITY OF SHEFFIELD’S INDEPENDENT STUDENT NEWSPAPER
Students to boycott nightclubs amid reported rising spikings
FORGEPRESS.ORG
New campaign to push back against city centre reported spikings Connor Ost
Nathan Barcio A group of University of Sheffield students have announced via instagram that they will be boycotting all bars and nightclubs in Sheffield on Wednesday 27th October.
This comes as a response to the reported rise in drink spiking in Sheffield. A spokesperson for the student group said: “It’s so important that women and girls feel like they can go out and actually enjoy a night out without worrying, we’re trained from when we’re kids
to worry about our safety all the time. It’s draining and it isn’t fair that our safety isn’t dealt with as a priority.” “Until clubs and other establishments treat it as seriously as they should, we aren’t going to feel safe, and that isn’t fair.” The boycott is happening
around several different cities in the country, with the campaign in Sheffield having gained over 900 followers and thousands of likes within 24 hours of launching their instagram page.
Student-led newspaper Steel City Courier has launched their ‘Claim Back West Street’ campaign to combat reported drink spiking in bars and clubs along the popular thoroughfare. The campaign was launched just days after the University of Sheffield’s Students’ Union released a statement responding to the rising alledged spiking incidents. The Students’ Union said it will provide “Spikeys”: anti-spiking products at all its bars, have security teams drug test drinks if you suspect you have been spiked, conduct random tests on unattended drinks, and increase anti-spiking messages in venues to deter perpetrators. However Steel City Courier has outlined the action they want, pledging to fight for ‘safe spaces in West Street bars, heavily push for all West Street bars to introduce anti-spiking measures, and bring Street Angels to Sheffield.’ >> continued on page 4
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Forge Press
FORGE PRESS EDITORIAL TEAM Editor-in-Chief Harry Harrison
Deputy Editor Kate Procter
Deputy Editor John Gilding Head of Design George Tuli Head of Photography Flo Kilby Website Manager Vacant Head of Socials and Advertising Charlotte Crompton Inclusions & Welfare Officer Molly Powell Events Coordinator Jiaxu Luo Secretary Charlotte Langford Head of News Indie Labbe-Jones News Editor Joey Grindrod News Editor Laycie Beck News Editor Kane O’Regan Features Editor Gina Marie Kalsi Features Editor Wiktoria Wrzyszcz Opinion Editor Pia Cooper Opinion Editor Leticia Chen Science & Tech Editor Louise Elliott Science & Tech Editor Tevy Kuch Lifestyle Editor Claire Gelhaus Lifestyle Editor Ella Brooker Break Editor Aidan Smith Break Editor Chloe Louise O’Connor Arts & Theatre Editor Jade Burnett Arts & Theatre Editor Maddy Burgess Music Editor Callum Martin Music Editor Rory O’Shea Screen Editor Miette D’Souza Screen Editor Chloe Aslett Games Editor Reiss Mason Games Editor Tom Butt Head of Sport Jemma Snowdon Sport Editor Rahul Warrier Sport Editor Miriam Kuepper Multimedia Editor Jinqian Li Multimedia Editor Larissa Hurt Multimedia Editor Tong Liu News Reporter Charlotte Stokes News Reporter Stephanie Lam News Reporter Nathan Barcio News Reporter Connor Ost News Reporter Jade Bullen Deputy Head of Socials and Advertising Joel Hooke Social Media Assistant Ellie Storey Social Media Assistant Amy Mullen-Brown
Letter from the Editor
“I can do a Waltz now”
H
ey, well done. That’s one month down. I can hear the Christmas bells ringing already. It’s been a hectic start to the academic year. I personally have had the experience of a big punch in the gut getting used to getting out of bed before nine every morning to go out rather than roll into my kitchen at 11:45am, five minutes before my lectures start on blackboard. It’s been a shock to the system I wasn’t expecting. I’m hoping everyone has managed to enjoy the start of University. Returning students - I think we’re all now just focussed on making it to the December break. Freshers - I think it was around now I finally noticed uni wasn’t as much of a shits-and-giggles fest as I thought it was going to be. I assume some of you may be thinking the same thing.
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t is so important we escape university for a few hours as often as we can, just for our own sakes. For me that’s sitting and playing NBA2K or going out to eat, but for many it can be a book or watching a movie. Others may prefer to go on a night out, to escape the seriousness of uni that way and I pray that you’ve been able to do so safely so far this year.
Girls Night In and Claim Back West Street are incredible campaigns, working to make our streets, bars and clubs as safe as possible for everyone. Their impact is admirable and I would like Forge Press, and the rest of Forge Media, to back these campaigns for change, everywhere. For many students, we’re approaching deadline season. All sorts of assignments are due and it’s starting to get real. Make sure your academic referencing is on point and you’ll be walking away with a first. There’s not really much more I can tell you. It’s been great to see societies back up and running. I tried out the Latin and Ballroom Society this month and it’s awesome to see classes full of people, which is still a bit strange, but shout out to the LaBs for making each one really good. I can do a Waltz now. Forge Press have got another 32 paper pages of the good stuff for you to have a crack at. The team have worked so hard and our new committee members have done a great job knuckling down early. Enjoy the issue, this is a cracker. All the best, Harry Harrison
Editor-in-Chief
Monday 25 October 2021
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NEWS Former Sheffield student charged after Chinese student attacks
The big picture
Page 5 ▶
NEWS UK Graduate workforce set to face tax burden from April
Head of Design, George Tuli, on the Peak District’s beautiful alternatives to a night out as a way to destress and step away from your studies As we approach the middle of the Autumn Semester you may be looking for an alternative to clubbing for unwinding and releasing course stress. Sheffield’s proximity to the Peak District makes this an ideal place for weekend day trip. Buses and trains are frequent and cost the same as a pint or two. Whether you visit
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OPINION
Castleton for its caves, Derwent Reservoir for its spectacular dam and walks, Stanage Edge for it unrivalled views, or one of countless other locations, you’ll be sure to enjoy time away from the busy city enjoying the countryside.
Met Police need to implement real change to keep us safe Page 13 ▶
FEATURES
How do soaring gas prices affect students? Page 11 ▶
SCIENCE & TECH Magic Mushrooms affects emotional response to music Page 14 ▶ View of Mam Tor from Castleton. Photo: George Tuli
ARTS & THEATRE Theatre Review: Recipe for a Baby Page 21 ▶
MUSIC Live Review: The Lathums at the O2 Academy. Page 23 ▶
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Forge Press
News
New campaign to push back against Sheffield city centre reported spikings Connor Ost Continued from front... Street Angels was started in 2005, organising teams of volunteers to patrol city centre streets to ensure those who are or could be vulnerable remain safe. The Street Angels network is spread throughout several cities across the UK but is not currently in Sheffield despite the danger in the city centre, according to similar initiative Sheffield
Street Pastors. They said: “Safety at night has been an issue in this city for a long time and Sheffield is actually the biggest city in the country without a safe space.” Steel City Courier has already gained the support of West Street bar Bloo 88, who will also provide Spikeys upon request, as well as support from The Wick at Both Ends, the Original Bierkeller, and South Yorkshire Police. Inspector Ali Bywater,
Sheffield City Centre Policing Team, said: “South Yorkshire Police will always be supportive of any initiative which aims to keep the communities that we serve safe.” “Partnership work is always key in these areas, and it is what goes on behind the scenes, perhaps what does not make the headlines, that can make a real difference.” Image credit: @ claimbackweststreet instagram
Keir Starmer visits Sheffield amid energy crisis. Charlotte Stokes Labour leader, Keir Starmer and Shadow Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, visited Sheffield’s Outokumpu Stainless Ltd last week to plead with the Conservative government for intervention. The Finnish-owned company normally produces a quarter of a million tonnes of metal every year. Last year, however, Outokumpu was in danger of total reconstruction just to remain open. With roughly 500 jobs still under threat, the crisis is still present for the industry. Starmer said: “If we have short term energy prices leading to long term job losses that is unforgivable for the government.” He also added that the government needs to “talk to the sector about the support that’s needed for jobs in places like this across Yorkshire.”
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With roughly 500 jobs still under threat, the crisis is still present for the industry Whilst visiting, Starmer also backed the trending movement of #Britainweneedoursteel to support the pledge for funding the struggling industry. The National Officer for Steel, Alun Davies, said “It does seem like another nail in the coffin and that’s why we are trying to push the government now to try and do something. We’ve been asking for years through the ‘Britain We Need our Steel’ campaign, looking
for cuts to energy prices, just to compete on a level playing field. But if the government does not act, we will end up collapsing.” The Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rishi Sunak, said that the government is still listening to the industry’s concerns, however does not consider funding the steel
industry as a top priority. Sunak said “We’re always in dialogue with businesses to understand some of the challenges they are facing, to examine solutions that people put towards us.” Starmer’s visit to Sheffield was to uphold Labour’s pledge for government intervention financially for
Credit: PEXELS
the industry. This energy crisis is at a global level, with prices in Europe reaching a 200% increase since January 2021 and the UK specifically has felt this hike.
Monday 25 October 2021
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News
Sheffield’s Shootings: Crimestoppers charity launches major campaign on gun crime Kane O'Regan Crimestoppers has launched a major campaign for new information on gun crime as a response to a recent surge in gun crime in the city. The rising number of incidents has been linked to drug gangs and drug dealing and has resulted in several casualties. All information provided to Crimestoppers is done so anonymously. The charity, which is independent of the police, received over 6000 anonymous tips from the people of South Yorkshire during this past year. The information has led to a series of arrests and gun
seizures. Gemma Gibbs, Crimestoppers’ South Yorkshire regional manager, said: “Guns cause enormous harm to not only individuals, but also the wider area as threats and intimidation prevent people and communities from living safe
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The rising number of incidents has been linked to drug gangs and drug dealing and has resulted in several casualties
and rewarding lives. We all have a role to play in helping put a stop to shootings on our streets and this is especially so if we know who’s involved. You can help make a big difference. If you prefer not to talk directly to the authorities, then our charity is here for you. “We take all information seriously and your information could be vital. “Those who carry out gun attacks rely on the myth that no one should `grass’, as it suits them to build up a wall of fear to avoid being caught. So, please do the right thing and contact Crimestoppers. You’ll be helping to bring peace to our streets and communities and helping to
stop violence in its tracks whilst staying 100 per cent anonymous.” South Yorkshire’s Police and Crime Commissioner, Alan Billings, adds: “The priority for police is to keep people safe and this is done best when they work in communities and with communities. “That means people ngaging with police or Crimestoppers. Your observation or piece of information may be the missing piece of the jigsaw and may be the key to police bringing an offender before the courts.” The death of 30-yearold father-of-two Khuram Javed, who was shot near
Bramall Lane in April, appears amongst the shootings currently under investigation. Unsolved cases also remain pertinent, as officers continue to investigate the death of 16 year old Jonathan Matondo, who was shot dead on a recreation ground in Burngreave 14 years ago. These cases accompany a number of firearms incidents where injuries were not endured. August saw officers called to a gun attack in Newfield Green, Gleadless, and the following month to Springvale Walk, Upperthorpe.
Men’s mental Former Sheffield student charged after Chinese student health group to hosts first meeting attacks Joey Grindrod A former University of Sheffield student has been charged after nine Chinese students were victims of assault in Sheffield between the 7 and the 26 September. The victims were attacked from behind and two were hit over the head with a blunt object. Former University of Sheffield student Shan He, 33, appeared at Sheffield magistrates court earlier this month. She was charged with two counts of assault and one count of possession of an offensive weapon in relation to two of the incidents. Second-year Chinese University of Sheffield student Becca said the attacks had left her feeling “scared” and “unsafe on campus”. The attacks were widely
covered by Chinese media, including the state-owned China Global Television Network. The events prompted a response from the Chinese Consulate in Manchester, and a visit to Sheffield from the Chinese Consul’s wife, Li Fanghui. Fanghui spoke to members of the University’s large Chinese community. She pledged the consulate’s support to Chinese students, saying: “China is concerned about the safety of its students who study abroad”. The Chinese Consulate General urged the University to “take decisive measures” to protect Chinese students in Sheffield. A university spokesperson said in response to the attacks: “We were saddened to learn of these incidents and are doing everything we can to support the students involved and assist the police
in their investigation. "The safety and wellbeing of our students is always our top priority and we take incidents like this extremely seriously." According to the Sunday Times, Chinese students contribute an estimated £85 million a year to the University of Sheffield, which constitutes 26% of its total tuition fee income. The Chinese Students and Scholars Association has also said that it is working to provide support to the victims.
Laycie Beck A local mental health group for men is up and running after having it’s first meeting last week. On Tuesday 19 October, the Men In Need Together (MINT) Sheffield group had their first meeting at Hemingway's on Devonshire Street, Sheffield from 6pm until 8pm. John Nicol is running the Sheffield group as Head Facilitator for Sheffield MINT whilst studying his masters at The University of Sheffield. He said: "MINT is extremely excited to give Sheffield's men a space to come together to share and listen about individual experiences with mental health. "The group will be a weekly opportunity for men to come together to check in with myself as facilitator and
other members.” Nicol added: "I'm excited for this to become a recourse for Sheffield and hope it is one that is used by many." The MINT organisation was founded in 2018 by CEO Joshuwaa Sturgeon after his close friend took his own life. The organisation has several groups across the UK, including in Wakefield and South Leeds. John added: "The benefits of the meetings include offering in person support which can be tailored to the needs of the group each week. "As the weeks go by and attendance increases there will be lots of opportunity for feedback on how people wish the group to run.” Anyone who is interested in the meetings should keep an eye on the group's Facebook page Men In Need Together - Sheffield for updates.
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Forge Press
News
Sheffield parks win internationally recognised award Laycie Beck Local parks and green spaces popular with Sheffield students are amongst the city’s 15 recognised with a national award. The Green Flag Award is a prestigious award which recognises the environmental character of parks and green spaces. To mark it’s Silver Jubilee, more than 2000 spaces across the UK have been awarded a Green Flag. Councillor Alison Teal, executive member for wellbeing, sustainable neighborhoods, parks and leisure at Sheffield City Council, said: “Our parks, woodlands and green spaces are the jewel in Sheffield’s crown, and we are incredibly lucky to have so many amazing open spaces to enjoy.
“I’m so proud of what our hard-working teams have achieved, with more than 800 green spaces to look after; it’s a real testament to them to once again be awarded so many Green Flag sites.” Parks in Sheffield that have won the award include Weston Park, the Sheffield Botanical Gardens, Sheffield Winter Garden, Tinsley Green and Firth Heritage Park. The Sheffield & Rotherham Wildlife Trust for Wyming Brook Nature Reserve and Green Estate for Manor Fields Park also received Green Flag awards. Paul Todd, Green Flag Award scheme manager, said: “I would like to congratulate everyone involved in making Sheffield’s beautiful parks worthy of a Green Flag Award. “To meet the requirements
demanded by the scheme is a testament to the hard work of the staff and volunteers who do so much to ensure that high standards of horticulture, safety and environmental management are met, and that parks support people to live healthy lives.” Over the course of the pandemic, parks and green spaces across the country have been vital in allowing the community to relax,
University of Sheffield engineering students win national rocketry competition. Indie Labbe-Jones Students from the University of Sheffield’s Faculty of Engineering have soared to success after winning a national rocket competition. The group, which is called Project SunrIde (Sheffield University Nova Rocket Innovative Design Engineering) have beaten 27 teams from across the UK in a competition run by the UK’s National Student Space Society (UKSEDS). The group already hold the National Open Altitude record in the UK and are yet to be beaten. Fifth-year chemical and biological engineering
student, Paulina Adzgauskaite, said that “we wanted to create a lightweight, aerodynamic structure. The 3D printers in the iForge enabled us to manufacture the parts that were both lightweight and rigid.” The Sheffield students designed and built the rocket, which is called SunrIde Jr. Jr, out of cardboard, wood and 3D printed materials. The group has been working on the rocket since October 2020, at first remotely and then in the iForge makerspace in the Diamond at the University of Sheffield once COVID-19 restrictions were lifted. The aim of the competition
was for the rocket to reach the greatest apogee (the highest point in the trajectory of the rocket) and all teams had to use a certain motor in order to ensure fairplay. The rocket was first launched on 27th June 2021 on a site in Cambridge and reached an apogee of 4836ft. Senior Lecturer in Control Systems and Systems Engineering and academic supervisor of SunrIde, Viktor Fedun said: “Taking part in this competition enabled the students to learn more about the exciting engineering principles behind rockets, whilst also gaining hands-on experience in building and manufacturing. Overcoming the challenges
exercise and meet friends safely in the fresh air. Councillor Teal added: “We recognise the important role that quality green spaces play in improving health and wellbeing and prioritise areas where parks need more investment. “We have a whole programme of improvements planned for the year ahead and continue to work with partners to secure funding and investment and every
Image credit: Sheffield City Council
opportunity.” In addition to the awards given, on Sunday 17th October buildings around the UK lit up green to show their appreciation for the community green spaces, this included the Weston Park Bandstand and Botanical Garden Pavillion.
Sheffield MP’s Speak Out Following Murder of MP Jade Bullen Several of Sheffield’s MP’s have paid tribute after the stabbing of Sir David Amess which has now been branded a ‘terrorist attack’. Sir Amess, who was a member of the Conservative party, was murdered last Friday after being stabbed multiple times in his constituency, in Essex whilst attending a meeting with constituents in a Church. A 25-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of murder. Sheffield City Mayor, Dan Jarvis said: “An attack of this kind is an attack on the very foundations of our democracy. A truly dark day.” Sir Amess’ murder comes five years after the stabbing of MP Jo Cox during an EU
referendum campaign. Her killer was sentenced to life in prison. Sir Amess, who was 69 and a father to five, was also one of Britain’s longest serving MP’s since 1983, having served under five Prime Minister’s, including Margaret Thatcher. Sheffield MP Paul Blomfield said: “Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this awful time.” Sir David Amess was also a pro-Brexit campaigner, an advocate for animal welfare and a practising Catholic, supporting socially conservative views. Flowers were laid at the scene of the crime, with tributes describing Sir Amess as “such a gentleman”. Sheffield South East MP, Clive Betts, said: “You
Monday 25 October 2021
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News
UK’s graduate workforce set to face tax burden from April of next year Kane O'Regan Graduates in the UK will now be hit with a 50 per cent tax rate on any additional money earned beyond April 2022 after Boris Johnson outlined an increase in national insurance rates. The new rates, which are set to hit graduates above the loan repayment threshold hardest, highlight the increasing tax demands placed on young people, with governments of both parties placing additional taxes on employers’ levies and young workers, despite championing cuts to the headline rate of income tax. Graduates with earnings over £30,000 will therefore
receive half of any pay increase to which their employer sees them entitled, despite paying an income tax rate of 20 per cent. For a salary rise of £1000, this translates to an additional £200 income tax, £132.50 more in employee national insurance, and £90 in further student loan repayments. The employer is also required to pay an additional £150.50 in employer national insurance. Lord David Willetts (a Conservative peer who formerly advised Margaret Thatcher during the 1980s) said rising tax rates
demonstrate the difficult demographic pressures on public spending. Willets said that “national insurance increases are nothing new” as they were seen as a way of collecting revenues. General Secretary of the Trades Union Congress, Frances O’Grady, claims that it “isn’t right” to target young workers with a tax hike while “leaving the wealthy untouched”. Instead, O’Grady calls for an increase on capital gains tax - a levy on profits accumulated when selling assets such as property or
shares. Further criticism has arisen from the fact that those over the state pension age do not pay national insurance, as tax is only paid on earnings. This also means that wealthier individuals, who live off rental income, savings or dividends, do not contribute under the new tax increase. Labour frontbencher Lisa Nandy claims her party supported the "broad principle" of increasing taxes for the wealthy to pay for NHS and social care recovery. Nandy states: "I think the broad principle that Frances
O'Grady is laying out - that those with the broadest shoulders should take some of the burden - is absolutely right. "I think that's a really difficult ask of a group of people who haven't done well under this Conservative government over the last 11 years." Johnson’s former chief advisor, Dominic Cummings, tweeted that “the Tories are making the young work harder to subsidise older, richer people. They promised to do the opposite.” image credit: Nataliya Vaitkevich, PEXELS
Refugee puppet’s international journey to arrive in Sheffield Connor Ost
A 3.5m tall puppet of a 10-year-old refugee will make her penultimate stop in Sheffield as she finishes her journey from the Turkey-Syria border to Manchester. ‘Little Amal’ will arrive in Sheffield on Friday 29 October as part of a project called ‘The Walk’ to experience artistic performances and displays the city has to offer, arranged by Sheffield Theatres. The project is supported by presenter Gary Lineker and Sex Education’s Ncuti Gatwa and
Gillian Anderson among others, and has covered most of the 8000km journey as a travelling festival of art in support of refugees. John Tomlinson, Producer at Sheffield Theatres said: “We are incredibly honoured to welcome Little Amal to the city we are all proud of.” “Her presence in our communities will resonate with the feeling of togetherness which thrives in Sheffield and we are working hard to ensure Amal will receive a true Yorkshire welcome.”
Crafted by the puppeteers behind the stage version of War Horse, Little Amal is based on a character of Good Chance Theatre’s play ‘The Jungle’, about the experiences in refugee camps. Amir Nizar Zuabi, Artistic Director of The Walk said: “We want to challenge the perception of refugees. We want to turn this into a celebration of shared humanity and hope.” “We hope that The Walk will leave in its wake a new way of thinking of what it means to be a refugee in today’s
world.” Amal’s visit will start in Victoria Quays, where family-friendly activities such as live music, arts and crafts and canoeing will take place before her arrival. Once welcomed by the Stand and Be Counted Theatre company, she will walk to Tudor Square to take part in a performance by Sheffield People’s Theatre. Free creative workshops will also be held in Tudor Square from 2.30pm to 5pm to offer lantern building, henna design, postcard writing, and bread baking before she
arrives. From there, she will visit the Peace Gardens where films by Sheffield Hallam University will be projected onto the Town Hall. Here, Amal will conduct a brass band accompanied by fireworks. The project is in partnership with Choose Love charity and the Good Chance Theatre to create The Amal Fund. The money the fund raises will provide academic and vocational training as well as food, medicine, and shelter.
Monday 25 October 2021
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Features
Feature by Megan Ainsworth
“It is a very complex, deeprooted problem that plagues education”: Decolonising the UK’s Eurocentric curriculum
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n the wake of the Black Lives Matter movement, the longstanding history of Eurocentrism became evident. Reports of a white-washed and censored history were highlighted for all to see. Debates for a diversified curriculum were thrown into the spotlight to try and combat the institutionalised racism and erasure faced by the BAME community. Although this campaign was successful in Wales, who are making changes to their curriculum set to be introduced in 2022, the rest of the UK is still yet to follow suit. The Black Curriculum Report states: ‘widening the scope of black history study can also help society to unravel and unlearn many of the racial stereotypes (and intergenerational
trauma) that linger into the present.’ It becomes a way of addressing the imperialist past of the UK by reflecting on how it has affected communities and cultures. However, it is surprising that much of the curriculum, especially within schools, are still taking a white-washed, Eurocentric approach to teaching. Statistics from the Impact of Omission report show that only 9.9% of pupils learn about the role of slavery during the British Industrial Revolution, and 7.6% are taught about the British colonisation of Africa. When you see this in comparison to 86.2% of students being taught about the Tudors, you can see this is very problematic. The erasure of black histories has become too commonplace. The subject of history is made up of white-European
elites, and neglects anyone who does not fit this ideal. Even when the history of BAME communities are being taught, it is often through the perspective of white-Europeans. Kirstie Harrison-Dunne, a History and English student at the University of Sheffield, said: “Eurocentrism is particularly prominent in history courses as much of our history has very much been written and defined by white European men with agendas. Therefore we are left with only a biased and questionable interpretation of events that in many cases has censored or silenced the voices of those who are not in charge of crafting the narrative.” According to a study conducted by the UCL Institute of Education, university reading lists add to the exclusion
of BAME communities. Course materials are overwhelmingly written by white-European men and are not reflective of the student bodies. Universities need to start diversifying their course materials in order to ensure representation for all of their students. They have a responsibility to start including people of colour in the construction of courses and ensure that education is not favouring whiteEuropeans. But even this is met with challenges. The Higher Education Statistics Agency has reported that only 1% of UK university lecturers are black, 10% are Asian and a shocking 75% are white. It becomes increasingly hard for BAME communities to be involved in constructing diversified curricula when they are being excluded from the very roles that create it. When presented with these statistics, Kirstie said: “I think it all links back to
systemic racism and a lack of equal opportunities. It is a very complex, deeprooted problem that plagues education but it is much deeper than that. Academics must do better to highlight and uplift non-European voices in order to help counter this problem.” Given how much Eurocentrism is interwoven within our society strongly highlights just how much work has to go into reversing the effects. Decolonising the curriculum is about collaborating with people of colour, and creating a curriculum that is inclusive of people from all backgrounds. For students like Kirstie it is not just the curriculum that needs changing, but also how society romanticises the past; dismissing aspects of life that contradict the ideal of the ‘Great’ British Empire. Diversifying the curriculum is just a small step to tackling systemic racism.
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Forge Press
Features
Feature by Chloe Aslett
“Someone grabbed me from behind”: Removing the taboo of predatory behaviour on a night out
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t’s the weekend. Rushed meals have left the house littered with dirty plates as everyone is too busy getting themselves ready to clean, the living room smells of cheap booze, and we’re in the outfit decision stage. I rush into my housemate’s bedroom wearing a figurehugging bodysuit. “You look amazing”, she yells, “where has that been hiding?!” The second option is a t-shirt and skirt. It’s more conservative. I walk back into the room, and the calmer look on her face tells me we’re thinking the same thing: “That one is probably safer.” We take precautions, we change our behaviour, and yet time and time again, it
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We take precautions, we change our behaviour, and yet time and time again, it isn’t enough.
isn’t enough. Recently the reported number of spikings on West Street, in Foundry, and elsewhere, has allegedly increased. The Student’s Union acknowledged this problem, but stated “these incidents are rare in our venues.” Emily Bush, a second-year history student, said: “Going out is scary right now. I don’t know if it’s a society-wide thing, because people haven’t been going out for a while, so now all the aggressive ones are, but when I went out the other week, I just had people grabbing me. Someone grabbed me from behind.” Recent cases of violence against women have sparked the discussion nationwide. The Met Police response, including their infamous advice to ‘wave down a bus’ if you feel unsafe, has proven just how bad the situation is. The statistic - from UN YouGov Poll for women - that 86% of young women aged 18-24 had been harassed in public came out earlier this year, and whilst it was a blow to some, it was unsurprising for many. Emily added: “You know when you’re leaving
someone’s house, and it’s dark- I make jokes, saying ‘well fingers crossed I get home!’, but everyone knows we are genuinely scared. I message people saying I hope they make it back okay, and it’s terrifying. Everyone knows it is, no one is under
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86% of young women aged 18-24 had been harassed in public
the illusion that it’s not. But what are we meant to do?” The vigil held for Sabina Nessa on 26th September saw up to 100 people, including students, gather at Devonshire Green for a moment of silence and to discuss what was described by one speaker as an “epidemic of violence against women”. This response proves that people care about and identify with her story, even almost 200 miles from where she died. A YouGov survey found that only 7% of women feel
that “men in society” are doing enough to ensure the safety of women and girls. The fact that this protection is needed, and women still don’t have enough support or resources to feel that they are safe alone, highlights a more central issue in itself. Zain Tariq, a second-year Architectural Engineering student, said: “If an incident happens while on a night out I feel responsible to try and help out. I know it can be unsafe for girls to speak up for themselves. I know how much privilege I have as a guy and try to make use of that. “I’ve heard that incidents have been happening more lately in clubs. You see people swapping places in circles to get away from others, and overall everyone is keeping a bit more of an eye out for anything sketchy.” Many of the current student cohort turned 18 while clubs were still closed, so were first allowed to go clubbing in July this year, and have no pre-pandemic experience to compare with. Euan Emery, a first-year Computer Science student, is one of these. He said: “Being a man I do feel relatively safe, but I have had run-ins with groups at nights out elsewhere before. Some places in the city, like Viper Rooms, pat you down or check pockets for drugs. The club back in my hometown is quite strict, so I was pretty surprised that we were just let straight into other places, like Foundry.” Various safety measures exist in clubs, including giving out “spikeys” to cover bottle tops, cling film for cups, and training staff on Ask Angela, a scheme where people mention the name at the bar to subtly alert staff that they need help. The Leadmill uses all of these, checks bags, and has recently removed the screens separating the bar
from the club, so more staff have eyes on the dancefloor. On Wednesday 20 October,
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Various safety measures exist in clubs, including giving out “spikeys” to cover bottle tops, cling film for cups, and training staff on AskAngela, a scheme where people mention the name at the bar to subtly alert staff they need help.
the Foundry announced they will be searching entrants at the doors, in order to offer more security. Other security measures, like ID Scanning are already in place. Jess Sharpe, a secondyear Environmental Science student, works behind the bar there. She said: “The atmosphere has definitely shifted lately. A lot of the discussion at work has been the girls trying to educate others on what goes through someone’s head while they’re out. “Some people don’t go for the cling film because of what others might think. I served a girl who asked for it then got questioned by a lad next to her, who said that kind of thing never really happened and that cling film would hardly help, so she took it off.” Some students have decided to take matters into their own hands to put pressure on establishments where these incidents are still being let slide.
Monday 25 October 2021
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Features
Feature by Wiktoria Wrzyszcz
The mess caused by soaring gas prices and how does it affect students
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his year has seen a global increase in gas prices. A cold winter in Europe put pressure on supplies and lowered the storage gas levels and at the same time, the demand for liquified gas from Asia has increased. These pushed up wholesale gas prices around the world by 250% since January. In the UK, the energy price cap has caused many companies to collapse as staying in the business was no longer sustainable. The energy price cap limits how much an electricity company can charge a customer, including both the standing charge and price for each kWh of electricity and gas. The energy cap is calculated by Ofgem (Office of Gas and Electricity Market). It applies if a customer is on a default energy tariff. It covers 15 million households in the UK at the moment. It depends on four factors: - Costs in the energy market.
Credit: Pickwood, Unsplash
- Where a customer lives - How a customer pays - Type of the energy meter The cap is usually updated twice a year – for the summer and for the winter. It is supposed to keep prices fair both for suppliers and households. However, as the gas prices increased sharply on a global market, many UK companies have been caught between the limit enforced by the
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As the gas prices increased sharply increased on a global market, many UK companies have been cuaght between the limit enforced by the energy cap and the cost of purchasing wholesale gas
energy cap and the costs of purchasing wholesale gas. As a consequence, two energy companies went bust this month, while nine others collapsed in September. One of them was Avro Energy, the biggest supplier on the market, providing energy to 580,000 customers. Samantha Snow- Gonzales, a 25 year-old Philosophy student at The University of Sheffield was one of the people caught in the mess caused by Avro going bust. She said: “I just happened to see a news story that my energy company had gone under. They didn’t even send an email and my payment had come out the day before. It is more frustrating than anything.” In order to help the customers whose companies collapsed, Ofgem transfers them to the new suppliers. In the meantime customers are asked to wait for more information and not to do anything on their own about the situation. However, this process is lengthy and very
confusing for many people like Samantha. She said: “I feel caught in the middle of it all. I was in the process of switching providers when it all happened. I was with Avro and was trying to switch to Bulb. I may still do that, but I have to see what happens after I finish switching to Octopus, who is automatically taking over all Avro’s consumers.” All that Samantha can do right now, is wait for more information, not knowing what the price of her new tariff will be and not being able to choose the company which would offer the best deal for her. In the meantime, almost a month after Avro’s Energy collapsed on the 22nd of September, it has just started transferring customers to the new provider – Octopus. On Friday, October 15th, Octopus issued the following statement: “This evening, we officially began transferring Avro’s energy supply to ours for the first handful of
customers. (…) There are complex industry rules that dictate how quickly we can do this – we expect it should take 4-6 weeks to complete everyone, and during that time, you won’t be able to switch to another energy supplier without running into complications. We’re planning to contact customers soon with more details about this part of the switch.” While thousands of people await transfers as their suppliers went under, it is very likely that soon even more customers will be affected. Ofgem predicts that more struggling companies will go bust this month. Additionally, a new, increased energy price cap comes into effect, driving prices higher for customers. According to the BBC, an average household on standard tariff will have to pay about £139 more per year. Prepayment meter users will see an increase of £153 annually.
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Forge Press
Opinion
The Met Police need to establish real change to keep us safe Nadia Lincoln
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t’s 9 pm and you’re at a friend’s house, not far from your own. You decide to walk the route home - one that you have traversed many times before. You call your partner, letting them know that you should be back soon. A lone police officer approaches you and shows you his warrant card. He tells you that you’re under arrest, handcuffs you and puts you in the back of his car. You comply - he’s a policeman after all. You never make it back home. This is not just a story, it’s a reality. Sarah Everard was abducted, raped and murdered by a plain-clothed police officer, Wayne Couzens, on a street in South London last March. This case caused national outrage, not only because it presented a genuine threat to women across the country, but because the perpetrator was someone that we are meant to trust. Any of us could’ve been Sarah Everard that night. Though Couzens had planned the attack, the choice of victim was random and opportunistic. She had friends and family, had plans with her boyfriend, had a degree and a job - she had a life. A police officer, someone who is supposed to save lives, took that from her. Don’t women already face enough fear when walking home alone? But now we are told that we have to be cautious even with police? What more can we possibly do to protect ourselves? The Metropolitan police have released guidance on what to do if you feel unsafe when approached by an officer by yourself. They suggested asking the officer questions to reveal his identity and intentions such as “where are your colleagues?”, “where have you come
from?” and “exactly why are you stopping or talking to me?”. They also said to speak to another officer on their radio to verify their responses. The force said that if someone believes they are in “real and imminent danger” they should shout out to a passer-by, run into a house, wave down a bus or call 999. There are glaringly obvious issues with the advice given by the Met. In the case of Sarah Everard, the act was premeditated and, likely, Couzens would be armed with responses to questions. He used experience that he gained from working Covid patrols and had already planned to trick the victim under a false arrest for breaching coronavirus guidelines.He also had his Metropolitan Police-issue warrant card, so was able to prove himself as a legitimate policeman. The Met even said that officers routinely carry warrant cards, and sometimes equipment, as they are expected to intervene when necessary if they are off duty. The advice given seems to ignore the fact that police committing crimes like these will probably have pre-planned their attack. It’s
unlikely that an officer will get the sudden urge to kidnap a woman without having thought about it before. It seems that the Met is placing the responsibility of women’s safety on women, and not on the corrupt officers. How are we supposed to know if what we are being told is true? Most people won’t know the laws surrounding arrests and probably couldn’t tell if something was out of place. Say you have asked an officer these questions and believe you are in “imminent danger”, is the rest of their advice useful? By running away into a house, you are technically resisting arrest - an actual crime. It is unlikely that the officer will let you run away, but if there are no other options this may be the best guidance that they have offered. The image of someone flagging down a bus is utterly ridiculous and would be laughable if the reality of the situation wasn’t so horrifying. If there even was a bus driving past, there is no guarantee that they would stop and if they did what authority would they have over
a policeman? Shouting out to a passer-by for help could work as they might be able to film the officer and scare him into letting you go. However, the likelihood of someone else walking by, especially at night, could be slim. Phoning 999, if possible, might be effective as you can speak to another officer who can tell you if the grounds for arrest are genuine. You would also be able to identify the policeman you are with. The Met has said that all officers know about the Everard case and would be expecting more distrust, so hopefully, your concern would be understood. I will point out the hypocrisy of the situation - calling the police because you cannot trust a police officer - but there is safety in letting them know. What more can we do to protect ourselves? Carrying a rape alarm would be useful
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The image of someone flagging down a bus is utterly ridiculous
as you can set it off if you feel unsafe. This is already more reliable than waiting for someone to walk past and allows you to take control of the situation. You could ask a friend or family member to stay on the phone with you for the duration of your walk. If you’re approached by an officer you could put the phone on speaker and put it in your pocket so they can hear the conversation and can act on it.There are also apps you can download on your phone that share your GPS location, or alert emergency contacts if you fail to interact with the app features in a specified amount of time. Walking home alone shouldn’t have to be a burden. We shouldn’t have to be fearful and cautious. Police should protect us. But that’s not our reality. Only last month a Barnsley-based officer was arrested over claims he was having an inappropriate relationship with a victim of a crime. The abuse of power in the police force is clear, and more needs to be done to tackle the issue, by getting rid of the corruption, not by telling women to ‘flag down a bus’.
Monday 25 October 2021
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Opinion
Is this country safe enough for females?
W Lydia Patrick
omen in the UK are covering their drinks with cling film and must flag buses if they feel unsafe. It has never felt so overwhelming to be a woman on this island. Garage worker Kicu Selamaj, 36, has been charged with the violent murder of Sabina Nessa in the Old Bailey, on the same day and in the same place as Wayne Couzins who was sentenced to whole life imprisonment for the rape, kidnap and murder of Sarah Everard. How many more candle-lit vigils must happen before it is accepted that in this country, statues of Winston Churchill are valued more than women? We attend these poignant gatherings in solidarity, we march, we cry, we shout, but where are the men? Why are they not finding the cure to this epidemic of violent misogyny? Philip Allot, the North Yorkshire conservative police commissioner, blamed women, who should be “streetwise”. Sarah Everard should have resisted arrest. This perfectly epitomises the delusion that has shrouded over women, unchanged since the 1980s when women were told to stay indoors so they didn’t get murdered by Yorkshire the Ripper. Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan has stated: “Men have got to be allies in addressing this issue”, yet this sentiment seems to be muted by a deafening outcry of ‘not all men’ and a non-response from the government. Priti Patel published a new strategy in July: Tackling Violence Against Women and Girls, including the promise of ‘20 000 police officers, ‘to make our streets safer’. Will these officers be like Wayne Couzens? Repulsive sadists who abuse their power to rape and kill women. Assuring women can walk the streets safely by having more
patrolling police officers, or predators, is the same as covering tower blocks in flammable cladding; deadly and redundant. Nadia Whittome, Labour MP, tweeted: “15 former and serving police officers have killed women since 2009. “The last 5 years saw 800 allegations of domestic abuse against officers & 52% found guilty of sexual misconduct kept their jobs. “This isn’t “one bad apple”. We need justice, accountability and culture change.” The relentless rhetoric that Couzens is an anomaly in the Met Police mirrors the complaints male murderers are outliers in the otherwise sound male population group. These bad apples propagate and come from a system that is poisonous to the core. The Met have said women can run from lone officers if we do not feel safe in their presence. Ladies, it’s ok! Run away from the men in uniform who should protect you. Or, even better, flag down a bus! As for more bad apples, two police officers took selfies with the bodies of Bilbaa Henry and Nicole Smallman after they were murdered by Dunyal Hassain in a Wembley Park. Their memories and lives were diminished by a sickening act carried out by more men in blue. How can
women possibly be safe if we must run from uniformed and non-uniformed men in the dark? It’s clear we should just brace ourselves and hope for the best, armed with only the best rape alarms, house keys and the find-my-friends app. There have been calls for Met police chief, Cressida Dick, to resign since the organisation she leads endangers women.Before it gets to the point that we need police officers to ‘protect’ us, we need a reversal of the toxic masculinity that breeds rapists and murderers. Stopping a man that is about to attack a woman is the same as re-bandaging an old wound that will not heal. It is a short term solution until the next predator strikes.
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These bad apples propagate and come from a system that is poisonous to the core A YouGov survey in March of this year revealed four fifths of women in the UK had been sexually harassed. Violence against women is a seismic problem rippling through the entire system, whether it is a catcall in the street, being stared at on
public transport or being groped in a nightclub, misogyny is rife. The Everyone’s Invited movement was created to call out rape culture in UK schools and universities, and give survivors a platform to share their stories. Each year as the university term starts, stories circulate of girls being spiked. A video from Bristol circulated recently showing a man who appears to be in his twenties allegedly spiking a woman of a similar age. Although there is little information released regarding the incident, the alleged spiker and his friend appear to have refined their spiking methodology down to a fine art. Each year we are told to #AskAngela and do not accept drinks in bars. We are now at a point where women are covering their drinks with cling film. We are forced to take these preventative methods on the off chance we can enjoy a night out without being drugged. As Marina Hyde has stated in her most recent column, “women don’t need to learn any more lessons.“ Yet, the government and police are relentless in wanting to teach us more. Jess Phillips, Labour MP is a longstanding advocate for women’s rights. This year on International Women’s Day, she read aloud all the women who had been
murdered by men that year. “One woman is killed every three days in the UK.” She emphasises that this is not a rarity, the violence we are subject to is just something society has come to accept, as common and routine as having a morning cuppa. She added that society has “just accepted dead women ‘’ as “one of them things”. This acceptance buries the epidemic deeper below the sand. Women know the reality of fear. We are scared when we walk in the morning and late at night, we are scared when we sit on public transport. We are petrified when fellow women like Sabina, Sarah, Bilbaa and Nicole are murdered. The epidemic can only be cured by the perpetrators, men, who need to stop preying on us, spiking us, wolf-whistling us and killing us. Systematically, the whole toxic culture needs to be wiped out of our organisations and institutions. Individually, men need to do more. Call out your friends who make vile comments in group chats or the ones who take home extremely drunk girls. We will never forget Susan Everard’s plea “don’t get in the car”. Society must stop giving the keys of this car to infantile boys who learn to drive and thrive in violence.
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Forge Press
Science & Tech
WHO approves first ever Malaria vaccine
Marking a huge step forward for pulic health, the WHO has approved the first ever malaria vaccine rollout for children across sub-Saharan Africa, writes Louise Elliott
Credit: Pixabay
Magic Mushrooms Affects Emotional Response to Music
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Sophie Teall
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The scheme aims to give four vaccine jabs to children under five years old. Credits: Pixnio
fter 30 years in the making, the WHO approved the first ever malaria vaccine on 6 October, recommending its administration to children across sub-Saharan Africa. This backing of the RTS,S vaccine, otherwise known by the brand name Mosquirix, marks an important step forward in tackling Malaria, a disease which killed 411,000 people globally in 2018. One modelling study found that complete vaccine administration could prevent the deaths of 23,000 children per year, which is not an insignificant dent in the disease’s annual death toll. However, issues do still exist with this vaccine. Four doses must be administered to each child under the age of five for full protection. At $5 per dose, this adds up to an estimated cost of $325 million per year to distribute and administer the vaccine across ten African countries with the highest malaria incidence. In efforts to combat the financial hurdle to vaccine rollout, the vaccine manufacturer GSK is pledging to make 15 million doses available annually at just above production cost. Although this is a noble effort, the reality is that roughly 100 million doses are needed annually if children in high incidence countries are to each receive
all 4 required doses for full protection. Furthermore, the vaccine itself has only modest efficacy, preventing severe disease and hospitalisation in 30% of malaria cases in children under the age of five. Badara Cisse, a malaria researcher at the Institute for Health Research, Epidemiological Surveillance and Training in Dakar, said: “The reality is that so much money has been poured into this vaccine, even when the results from studies are disappointing “I don’t think a 30% effective vaccine would be acceptable for Americans.” Promisingly, further clinical trials have concluded that the vaccine could reduce childhood malaria deaths by up to 73% when children receive three doses in the run up to the rainy season, when malaria incidence peaks, and a further dose before the rainy season in the following two years, making up a total of 5 doses. However, it is worth noting that this efficacy rate was found in children who were also undergoing seasonal malaria chemoprevention, where healthy children take monthly doses of antimalarial drugs during the rainy season to help prevent disease. Despite the modest efficacy of the current vaccine, there is agreement
among epidemiologists that RTS,S could have a notable positive impact in some regions. However, for this to be achieved, better communication is needed to improve the trust and relationships between scientists and local communities. James Tibenderana, a Ugandan epidemiologist at the Malaria Consortium in London, said: “People will wonder what a 30-year-old, partially effective vaccine is suddenly being introduced during a pandemic – and targeted only at Africans.” The trust that communities and the public have in scientists cannot be taken for granted, as was witnessed globally during the Covid-19 outbreak. However, long term trust over many years is vital if children are to receive the full four doses of this vaccine required for full protection. In order to help build this trust, clear communication and transparency about the vaccine will be more important than ever. Despite these challenges ahead, James and Badara are also grateful for the WHO’s decision to approve the vaccine for use. After the devastation brought by Covid-19 and increasing resistance to antimalarial drugs emerging, James says “it’s uplifting to hear some positive news.”
he psychedelic ingredient found in magic mushrooms alters the emotional response to music, with implications for its potential therapeutic application. A team of Danish researchers found that taking controlled amounts of the psychedelic drug psilocybin leads to a heightened emotional response to music. 20 participants listened to a short programme of classical music, both before and after having either taken psilocybin or a control drug used to treat high blood pressure. When asked to rate how the music evoked emotions including wonder, nostalgia and peacefulness, participants reported a 60% higher emotional response after taking psilocybin. There is evidence that psilocybin has been used by humans for thousands of years, including for medical and religious purposes. However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that scientific research began to be conducted to understand the drug’s potential therapeutic value.
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There is evidence that psilocybin has been used by humans for thousands of years. While there is research into the use of various psychedelics to treat mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety, psilocybin is considered most suitable for clinical development. This is due to the shorter trip time making it easier to schedule trials, with the psychedelic effects on average lasting for 2-6 hours. The discovered effect of psilocybin on an emotional response to music suggests that music should be considered in further trials and treatment. There is potential for the results of therapy to be optimised through individualising the music a patient listens to while taking psilocybin and receiving psychological support. The team plan to next use MRI scans to study the influence of psilocybin and music on the brain. This will further understand the drug’s potential use in treating certain conditions.
Psilocybin mushrooms are commonly known as magic mushrooms. Credit: Wikimedia Commons
Monday 25 October 2021
15
Science & Tech
Singapore’s Patrol Robots: The ‘future-forward’ reality?
T Tevy Kuch
he presence of public officers out patrolling on streets to tame and contain public order has never been anything completely unorthodox. Countries have dispensed numerous methods of public surveillance as a means to encourage public safety, from security cameras to social distancing posters plastered around in public spaces. Singapore has spruiked another innovative addition to its already robust arsenal of surveillance tools by trialling two robots to assist in patrolling public spaces and counteracting negative social behaviour. In a statement, Singapore’s Home Team Science and Technology Agency said that they are trialling the pair of bulky autonomously wheeled-vehicles, both named Xavier, to detect bad behavior. These involve breaching COVID-19 safety measures, smoking
in restricted sites, illegal hawking, motorised active mobility devices and motorcycles on footpaths or even improper bicycle parking. Complete with seven cameras mounted on its head and a big tablet lodged in the front, the robots trigger real-time alerts when it identifies “undesirable social behaviour”, which feedback to the command and control centre. Currently, they are monitoring areas with high foot traffic in central Singapore, a housing estate and a shopping plaza. The robots would then be used for surveillance and presenting messages to inform the public on ‘proper behavior’ during the three-week trial, according to the agency. The country has earned a reputation for its vast array of surveillance technology, from CCTV cameras to lampposts rigged with facial recognition technology, irrevocably sparking increasing concerns over
Leaves on the line: Cancelled
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Charles Vickers
esearchers at the University of Sheffield’s Department of Mechanical Engineering have developed new technology which is able to clear leaves from train lines without needing the use of specialised treatment trains. First developed in 2015 and in trials with Northern Rail since 2020, this advance uses dry ice pellets and air at high pressure to clear the leaves from the line. This technique has been shown to be more effective than current methods which use water and a sand-based gel. Using recaptured carbon dioxide, including from brewing beer, means that the new technology is also
environmentally friendly in comparison with the current methods. With the possibility of fitting this to passenger trains, they would be the first passenger trains in the world to clean the lines as they run. As leaves fall onto the tracks, along with damp autumn conditions, trains are forced to brake earlier, reducing the speeds they can run at and causing delays to timetables, as well as leading to signalling problems. For UK commuters, this is one of the biggest complaints and a source of great frustration, as well causing high costs to the rail industry. There is hope that this technology can be rolled out across rail networks over the next few years, meaning that lines can be cleaned more regularly than currently,
privacy. Officials have taken major strides towards a hyperefficient, tech-driven “smart nation,” but critics claim that privacy would be compromised and ‘intrusive tech’ would limit people’s control over what happens with their data. On its recent patrol, one of the robots combed across a housing complex and intervened between a group of elderly people who were watching a chess tournament. “Please keep onemetre distancing, please keep to five persons per group,” was broadcasted in a robotic voice, as the camera affixed its lens on them. The robots have a variety of sensors installed and are trained on data about the surroundings in order to navigate. To determine actions such as smoking or selling goods
by screaming, they will film the action and process it with “deep convolutional neural networks and software logics,” matching it to existing data. The sample data is collected by engineers walking across the same shopping plaza the robots are patrolling as well as virtually-built synthetic data designed to mimic the actual environment. Engineers walked the cameras across the commercial mall where the Xavier robots will patrol to acquire some of the sample data. Other training data was created virtually—synthetic data that was supposed to mimic the actual thing. The devices, according to digital rights activist Lee Yi Ting, are the latest way Singaporeans are being observed. “It all contributes to the sense people ... need to watch what they say and what they do in Singapore to a far greater extent than they would in other countries,” she told Agence FrancePresse But it isn’t a robot cop.
The agency clarified that the robots are not used for law enforcement. Instead, it’s a police aide, a mobile sentry camera and warning system with enforcement powers that involve summoning backup and displaying safety infomercials. “The deployment of Xavier will support the work of public officers as it will reduce the manpower required for foot patrols and improve operational efficiency,” said an agency spokesperson. The government claims that they are necessary to address a labor shortage to compensate for the aging population. The true value of Xavier lies in its ability to automate some of the more basic and repetitive policing activities. With human officers in the command center overseeing numerous robots, responses to disorderly behaviour would be better judged from knowing exactly what happened. Xavier Robot out on patrol. Credit: HTX
MDMA could lead to better sleep for PTSD patients
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Thanucha Sooriapatham
ecent clinical trials have revealed that MDMA-assisted psychotherapy could aid better sleep for patients suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). PTSD patients often experience disrupted sleep patterns due to frequent trauma related alertness, particularly worsening with treatment-resistant patients. Randomised double-blind trials were conducted and patients were administered various doses of MDMA. It was found that patients taking overall higher doses of MDMA had significantly improved sleep than those administered lower amounts. This is due to the fact that MDMA increases
several neurotransmitters in the brain, including serotonin, dopamine and norepinephrine - the essential transmitters for sleep and mood. MDMA intake releases further serotonin, thus allowing for a better quality of sleep and relieving symptoms for patients. Although the study showed that over half of the patients experienced a better quality of sleep and relief of symptoms, this was only achieved by long term use of the drug. Studies on short term usage have previously shown that MDMA leads to a worsening of sleep quality and even insomnia. However, this study has shown that there is a lot of potential for treatment-resistant patients to have a better quality of life and perhaps with further
clinical trials of a larger and more diverse population could lead to the drug being used permanently.
Ecstasy Pills Credit: Wikimedia Commons
16
Forge Press
Science & Tech
Baby Humpback Whales ‘Whisper’ to their Mothers
Humpback Whale Credit: Wikimedia Commons
You may have heard a whale sing, but have you heard them whisper? Sophie Teall tells us how
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research team has recorded humpback whale calves quietly calling to their mothers as they swim. Led by Simone Videsen from Aarhus University, the team believes these calls help stop mother-calf separation while avoiding attracting predators. The researchers’ original aim was to study suckling behaviour in the whales, hypothesising that the calves used calls to signal when they were hungry. However, it soon became apparent that this was not the case. Not only did the calves not increase their call frequency before suckling, but they were four times more vocal
during non-suckling dives than suckling dives. This data indicates that the acoustic communication between mother and calf plays a different role. Humpback calves swim close to their mothers, gaining protection and easy access to milk. Becoming separated for a prolonged period poses a risk. Yet when swimming through murkier waters, the pair may not be able to see each other for more than
New Gene Therapy Innovation Center opens
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Tyler McMinn
he University of Sheffield is considered one of the most forefront institutions researching cell and gene therapy. Announced earlier this year, The Gene Therapy Innovation and Manufacturing Centre (GTIMC) led by the University’s own Professor Mimoun Azzouz, is one of the three pioneering hubs launching in the UK dedicated to research into cell and gene therapy. The GTIMC is part of a new £18 million network funded by LifeArc and the Medical Research Council (MRC); with additional funds coming from the Biological Sciences Research Council. Despite the UK being a world-class genetics research base, it has long been cited that academics and researchers have experienced logistical problems in their research. By concentrating this research into these
institutions, the aim is to eliminate these problems and therefore streamline the research process. The intended downstream response of this is to ‘smooth’ the transition between small-scale supply for early clinical trials through the large-scale development and hopeful manufacture of novel therapies. What is gene therapy? To begin with, a gene is a segment of a person’s DNA that often codes for a protein. Proteins are incredibly important to the human body, and when mutations occur in the DNA, they can sometimes affect the proteins that segment – that gene – they code for. Sometimes this change is minuscule, sometimes in the case of, for example, Cystic Fibrosis -one of the most infamous genetic disorders), there is no protein produced which has disastrous effects on bodily health. Gene therapy is a way of modifying these defective genes to cure or minimise the symptoms of disease.
a few body lengths of the mother. Since the calves’ calls were significantly quieter than those of adult whales, the team suggested that these “whispers” evolved as a way for the mother to keep track of her calf. As the calls only travel across a range of about 30m, they are unlikely to be heard by predators such as orcas. A concern of the researchers is that loud Baby Humpback Whale Credit: Wikimedia Commons
noise pollution from human activities such as shipping may mask the calls. As the paper states, “even moderate increases in ambient noise [...] may increase the risk of the calf being separated from the mother”. Further research would be needed to support this. Not only does this paper offer a glimpse into the lives of whales, but it also may further understanding of the consequences of human activity on the natural world.
Are TFC Membranes the Solution to Global Thirst? Desalination plant to turn seawater into normal water without polluting the area Credit: Solar Water Solutions
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Merel Huizen he earth contains about 326 quintillion gallons of water (1260 quintillion litres) yet only three percent is freshwater. The vast majority of 89 percent is ocean water and not suitable for direct consumption whilst populations in warm and dry climates struggle to access clean drinking water. The TIME’s Best Inventions of 2020 winning company, Solar Water Solutions, as their name states, has tried to tackle global thirst by designing a solar powered desalination plant which has the ability to turn four to seven thousand litres of ocean water into drinkable water every hour and can be easily installed near coastlines.
Although this technology has been criticised for visual and noise pollution, emission of materials into the atmosphere and the discharge of highly concentrated salt in a journal dating back in 2007, it has seen serious development and improvements. However, according to Solar Water Solutions, their TFC membranes are only cleaned with non-chemical acids. Moreover, recent research was published initiating a positive future for TFC membrane recycling. Even though Solar Water Solutions might need fine tuning and improvements, they have developed an extremely innovative product that has great potential for sustainably making clean drinking water accessible for thousands of people.
The main trick behind this ‘salt water filter’ is called reversed osmosis (RO). Under great pressure, ocean water gets pumped through a nanoscale Thin Film Composite (TFC) membrane which only allows water molecules to pass and leaves impurities such as dissolved solids, chemical residues, bacteria, and viruses behind.
Monday 25 October 2021
17
Lifestyle
Sheffield’s most diverse runway: A night at charity fashion show ‘Runway Idol’
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Ella Brooker unway Idol is an annual charity fashion show and, this year, was hosted at Hillsborough Stadium. The show was in aid of MIND and the UK Sepsis Trust. Not only did the event tickets and raffle sales raise a total of over £4000 for these incredible charities, but all the clothing worn by the models in the show was donated to Cancer Research UK.
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Runway Idol was not only fun and incredibly entertaining, but also incredibly educational, moving and eye-opening. This show was truly visionary, designed to help the models of all shapes, sizes, races, ages and abilities, to overcome their insecurities and get their confidence back- or to showcase their unwavering confidence they already had. One model was chosen by a panel of professionals to win amazing opportunities in the fashion industry. The show was hosted throughout, by BBC Sheffield’s Becky Measures and Maz. Their energy and humour brought light to what, at times, was a very inspiring and hard hitting show. As said by Becky- ”We are not just a fashion show, we are showcasing real life wonderful people.” The show began with a swimwear and beach theme featuring clothing from In The Style and The Couture Club, with sunglasses from Bad Hero. The confidence from the models was inspiring, as they strutted
down the runway in bikinis, swimming costumes and swim shorts. The second runway was all about the boys! They showcased various outfits from Surreal Clothing, Heavens Watch and Tommy’s and featured hats from the Love Island official cap suppliers: Rewired. After a vocal interlude by Sophie Little Johns, the third walk was titled the ‘This is me Catwalk.’ My personal favourite, this runway was created to shine the spotlight on each model and their own individual styles. Models were in clothing related to their hobbies, such as gym wear, and others told their career stories, such as one male model in his military uniform. Others went for a more expressive, abstract approach in intricate and unusual costumes. The first guest speaker of the night, Mike Mahoney, a volunteer for the UK Sepsis Trust and sepsis survivor himself, gave a moving and informative talk to raise
awareness for the illness. Mike told us his personal story of having sepsis, which was incredibly inspiring. The fourth catwalk was themed as bridal and suits. The models were paired beautifully in couples as they walked together- the women in bridal gowns from Nora Eve Bridal, and the men in suits from Reeve Ford suit hire. The variety in the stunning dresses that Nora Eve Bridal had to offer was also great to see. Every ‘bride’ looked wonderful. The fifth walk was a bit of fun, but also supported a great cause. All models walked wearing underwear from the brand Oddballs, a charity which sells underwear to raise money for testicular cancer. The garments are bright and funky, and the energy from the models totally matched this vibe. It was followed by a touching musical piece by 13-year-old Kitty. Next was an incredibly powerful talk from ‘Tom Talks’, who shared his story of his battle with mental health, after the devastating loss of his brother, also as a result of mental health struggles. His mission is to raise awareness for men’s mental health. I think it is safe to say that there was not a dry eye in the building after this talk, which was hugely important for anyone
to hear. It only felt right in Hillsborough Stadium that the sixth walk involved the models embodying the Sheffield FC football kits. This was then followed by the seventh runway, centred around girl power. The ladies demonstrated strength, confidence and feminism as they walked to Cardi B and Lizzo’s, ‘Rumours’. Wearing angelic white garments from
In The Style, they absolutely rocked it! The final runway embodied the whole morale of the show, with the models wearing t-shirts with empowering slogans to raise awareness for mental health. Phrases such as ‘it’s okay not to be okay’ and ‘make your mental health a priority’ were amongst many others including ‘this is what an invisible disability looks like’. Other models wore merchandise shirts from MIND, which can be bought online to help raise funds for the charity. The show was closed with a musical number performed by The Voice Academy. Following this, the winner of the models was announced. I am sure I am not alone in saying that Runway Idol was an amazing experience which was not only fun and incredibly entertaining, but also incredibly educational, moving and eye-opening. To top it all off, the night raised an astonishing amount of money for some well deserving charities, who suffered during the pandemic. I urge anybody who can, to go to next year’s showcase.
Credit: Ella Brooker
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Forge Press
Lifestyle
The best of Sheffield’s vintage scene
C Emily Duff
oncerns for climate change and environmental impacts are ever-growing. We find ourselves in a modern society filled with sustainable focused lifestyles from swapping plastic straws for reusable metal, to the vast expanding vegan lifestyleand fashion has no escape from that standard. Although trends continue to come and go, young people want to find these pieces in more ethical ways. From online resources like Depop and Vinted to high-street chains like Cow (R.I.P) and Beyond Retro- there’s nothing like finding a one-off statement or a bargain staple. Vintage and second-hand clothes are becoming more on-trend, and Sheffield is the perfect city to get your fix. Here’s the run-down:
(2 tops for £10, cha-ching!) as well as hosting a huge 50 per cent off sale during Freshers week, this vintage store is really focused on the students of Sheffield. You can also find them on Student Beans to get 15 per cent off your shopping basket in person and online.
Preloved Kilo
76 Division St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4GF This one is for the people who enjoy a rummage. Located on bustling Division Street just down from the infamous West Street, this shop still
Vulgar
Unit 2 129, The Forum, 127 Devonshire St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S3 7SB Vulgar is the place to go for all things unique and vibrant. They have a collection of colourful earrings, scrunchies, bubble rings and other accessories that perfectly compliment their range of handmade upcycled clothes. There is an abundance of second hand clothes and shoes, so you’re never able to leave empty handed. The cute mirror at the front is ready for you to take the perfect selfie to show off your new airplane, snake or fruit-themed earrings. Top tip: show your student ID for 10 per cent off next time you pop in.
Glass Onion
manages to be somewhat of a hidden gem. Although small in size, Preloved Kilo has jam packed rails of oversized jumpers, old school jackets and dresses in every pattern you could think of - as well as bins full of retro bags and scarves.
Thrifty Store
194 Norfolk St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 2JH
1-25 King St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S3 8LF
Formerly known as RAG, Glass Onion is a student staple located between The Moor and The Peace Gardens. After having taken part in the SU Freshers Fair
Having finally reopened on Sep 25th, the store opened its doors with a bang - a bargain £1 sale and £15 kilo sale. Although it seems unlikely from the outside,
Thrifty Store also boasts being Sheffield’s biggest vintage store due to its multi-level establishment. Having a bright yellow store front, this shop is not hard to miss.
Freshman’s
6-8 Carver St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4FS Freshman’s claims the title of Sheffield’s longestlasting vintage store, making them the city’s grandparent of secondhand. Located in the city centre and making sure to stay in touch with its customers, Freshman’s offers
a range of benefits from loyalty cards to Leadmill’s Club Tropicana hawaiian Shirt discounts.
Ryan’s Vintage
86-88 West St, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield S1 4EP Just opposite the road, from Freshman’s, you’ll find Ryan’s Vintage. It’s a store full of all sorts, from CDs to decor, and of course racks and racks of fashion gold- all from as little as a pound. It’s very student budget-friendly but requires a good chunk of time to dedicate to hunting
through their collections. As a huge fan of vibrant and colourful clothes, my best bargain here was a £2 bright blue cardigan - score!
Credit: Top: Flickr user markheybo, no changes made https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/ by/2.0/ Bottom right: Flickr user Tim Dennell, no changes madehttps:// creativecommons.org/licenses/ by/2.0/ Bottom left: Flickr user Paolo Margari, no changes made https:// creativecommons.org/licenses/bync-nd/2.0/
Monday 25 October 2021
19
Lifestyle
Incorporating wellness into your revision routine Life at University can quickly become tedious and overbearing. It is incredibly easy to find yourself in a routine of just working and reading. Tia Xiourouppas writes, while it is important that we do keep on top of our work, it is equally as important to keep on top of our wellbeing
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have all too often found myself lost in a sea of books and exams-working on my studies but losing my happiness. If you ever find yourself to be in a similar situation, here are a few ways you can incorporate wellness into your study routine to improve your work life. Taking consistent breaks Many people surprisingly forget that breaks can be taken, and are in fact extremely beneficial to your revision. It is easy to sometimes think that hours and hours of straight work will help relieve you of your stresses.
However, this couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, many studies have shown that taking consistent breaks benefits not just your mind, but also your work; it gives you time to rewind, reflect, and return with a fresh work ethic. You are also far less likely to procrastinate whilst doing work, resulting in more work actually being done in less time. It is extremely important to space out your work over the week, and not overload yourself in one day. Meditation, yoga, or anything to help you unwind Unwinding at the beginning and end of the day can be as
simple as a short meditation session, or even a calming warm bath. I have personally found that meditation in the morning really helps me begin my day with a sense of focus; it calms down any anxieties and allows me to start my day fresh. Similarly,
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Trying to make these small wellbeing habits become a part of your routine is undoubtedly one of the best ways to be able to be consistent with work.
meditating at night allows me to release any stress that has been clinging on to me for the day. I definitely don’t do this every day, but trying to
make these small wellbeing habits become a part of your routine is undoubtedly one of the best ways to be able to be consistent with work. If you have never done meditation or yoga before, it can be daunting to know where and how to begin. Thankfully, there are many simple videos on Youtube to help guide you through beginner’s meditation. I would strongly recommend the Youtube channel ‘Goodful’ for simple meditation, and ‘Yoga with Adriene’ for a yoga and meditation session combined! Making sure you have enough fuel for the day Water and food are quite literally a necessity to survive. It is so easy to forget the importance of eating three meals and drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day. I know that if I am ever running late and choose to skip breakfast, my mornings are hindered by my lack of
energy. Dehydration can have you feeling dizzy, tired and light-headed, which is not at all ideal for revision. Trying to push yourself through dehydration and hunger will only make you feel worse and worse, resulting in a lower efficiency rate whilst working. I recommend planning and even prepping your meals for the week in advance. This way it is far easier to cook, and you eliminate the risk of feeling too stressed with work to start a meal. It also means you can spend more time just relaxing, instead of worrying about time being lost through cooking. There are plenty of other ways to incorporate wellbeing into your studies. Gym breaks and daily walks, soothing candles or essential oils, even just spending time with friends and family to relieve yourself. No matter what helps you out, it is important to incorporate wellness into your study, for a happier and healthier life.
Perfect pumpkin bread to get in the autumnal spirit Claire Gelhaus round now, when the leaves crunch under boots and a chill in the air flushes cheeks, I can’t help but return to the autumn traditions I’ve always had. Autumn is harvest time, and for most of my childhood that meant corn mazes and warm apple cider from the orchard; enjoying the last tastes of summer before winter shocks the land to a stillness. For me, pumpkins have always been the symbol in my mind for Halloween, and even Thanksgiving. It’s a ‘new world’ crop- native to the Americas. And a part of a storied Native American tradition- the planting of
the three sisters. Sweetcorn, beans, and squash. Each was planted at the same time, in the same plot. Corn grew tall first, giving the beans something to vine up. And the squashes’ large leaves protected the soil. This is the taste of Autumn for me- it’s a recipe my family’s used for so long we don’t know whose it was originally. It lives on a blue notecard stained from years of use. Pumpkin Bread Makes 3 regular loaf pans, so halve if needed. Can also be made into muffins! Roast: One baking pumpkin or butternut squash, halved, with the seeds removed.
Brush with vegetable oil and bake at 220 degrees C for 30-45 minutes, or until forktender. Then scoop the flesh away from the skin, and mash or blend until smooth- lumps are okay. Cream: 2 ¾ cups of granulated sugar, 4 eggs, and 2/3 cup of vegetable oil. Add: 2 cups of pureed pumpkin, 2/3 cup of water, 3 ½ cups of flour, ½ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of baking powder, 2 teaspoons of baking soda, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, ½ teaspoon of cloves, 2/3 cup of dried cranberries, 2/3 cup of chopped walnuts Bake: 180 degrees C for 1 hour, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
Credit: Claire Gelhaus
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Forge Press
Arts & Theatre
Off the Shelf Festival back in Sheffield for October This year, Sheffield’s Off the Shelf literary festival is back in the city, bringing together a range of fantastic authors, academics and activists in a series of both in-person and online talks. Here’s Forge’s guide to what is on. Misbehaving - Sue Finch, Jenny Fortune, Jane Grant, Jo Robinson and Sarah Wilson 24th October, 1:00pm In 1970 a group of feminists attracted global headlines after protesting the Miss World contest at the Albert Hall, marking a deeply significant moment in the women’s liberation movement. The story was made into a movie (Misbehaviour) in 2020, and now a number of the protesters have published a book to tell their story in their own words. The writers and editors of the book will be at the Millennium Gallery discussing their 1970 protest, the legacy of the women’s liberation movement and the modern beauty industry.
Sex: Lessons From History Dr Fern Riddell: Online Event - 25th October, 7:00pm In her book, Sex: Lessons From History, historian Dr Fern Riddell takes an inclusive look at the cultural
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Dr Fern Riddell takes an inclusive look at the cultural history of sex, exploring many of the links between our own understandings of sexuality and historic understandings
history of sex, exploring many of the links between our own understandings of sexuality and historic understandings. During this online event Dr Riddell will be discussing the sexual lives of our ancestors, what they tell us about our modern attitudes, and what we can learn about the way forward. This is a brilliant event for those interested in inclusive and diverse histories. The Northern Line - Judy Simons: Online event - 26th October, 6:00pm Judy Simons’ The Northern Line: The History of a Provincial Jewish Family, uses diaries, letters, photographs and heirlooms to look at the early days of Sheffield’s Jewish community. At her online event, Dr Simons will be discussing this approach to social history as a way of uncovering seemingly lost histories and exploring her own family past.
Screengrabs from, left to right, bookishizz, lacislibrary, jenna.loves. books. Composite: TikTok
Disruptive Publishing Magid Magid in conversation with Dr Tom Payne and Dr Julia Udall - 26th October, 7:00pm At this event, former Lord Mayor of Sheffield, race and climate justice activist, organiser and author Majid Majid will be joined by Dr Tom Payne and Dr Julia Udall to discuss acts of disruption. In the light of the climate crisis and the upcoming COP26 conference in Glasgow, they will be exploring how creativity and disruption in publishing can give critical voices a chance to be heard. The Book of Trespass: Crossing the Lines that Divide Us - Nick Hayes 28th October, 7:00pm Campaigner, author and illustrator Nick Hayes’ The Book of Trespass takes readers on a journey into the closed countrysides, woodlands, meadows, rivers and lakes of England to consider how such a large amount of land has been blocked from public access. In this talk, Hayes will offer a defence of the public right to the natural world, and the belief that land ownership
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Climate justice activist, organiser and authorMajid Majid will be joined by Dr Tom Payne and Dr Julia Udall to discuss acts of disruption
should allow exclusion. Refugee Tales - David Herd in Conversation with Khodadad Mohammadi: Online event - 29th October, 6:00pm At this crucial event one of the editors of the fourth volume of Refugee Tales, David Herd and one of the contributors, Khodadad Mohammadi, will be discussing the real experiences of refugees under COVID-19. Their book is an attempt to highlight the voices and stories of refugees, and their conversation will be essential listening for anyone interested in the fight for refugee rights.
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Monday 25 October 2021
Arts & Theatre
Fresh books Review
Crossroads Jonathan Franzen Set in a historical moment of moral crisis, Crossroads is a breathtaking saga of family dysfunction set across fifty years.
Burntcoat Sarah Hall A sensual and exhilarating novel of mortality, passion and human connection, set against the backdrop of a deadly global pandemic.
Reprieve James Han Mattson Perfect for Halloween - an escape room takes a truly sinister turn when one of the contestants is murdered in this pageturning psychological horror.
Recipe for a Baby Presented by Sheffieldbased company Belly Up Theatre and written by Will Turner, Recipe For a Baby is a gripping tale of a woman wronged by those closest to her. It follows the life of Tracey (Ellen Trevaskiss), a budding TV chef, who hosts a kids’ cooking programme on the BBC, despite disliking children with a passion. In her personal life too, children haunt her: her partner, Tony (James Kelly), desperately wants to start a family, much to her distress. Tracey makes it clear through impassioned speeches and conversations with Tony and her father, Mark (James Gilson), that she does not have the time (or willingness) to have children: she wishes to further her career and pitch a food show - for adults this time. A spanner is thrown in the works, however, when Tracey undergoes an unwanted pregnancy. The rest of the story takes a turn towards the darker - a chilling and somewhat exaggerated quest for revenge. The audience are led through a series of graphic, dreamlike scenes, depicting themes one would not usually see in theatre. In a way, the show feels like an overarching metaphor for a woman taking back control, delivered with thrilling realism which bends into the surreal. One does have to wonder, though, if the metaphor is taken too far playing into the stereotype that a woman in control of her own body and future is seen as ‘insane’. Her character walks a thin line between being a powerful woman in control of her path, and a woman driven to madness by the wrongs done unto her. On
one hand, Tracey charges into battle on behalf of those who are in the same boat, but could not get a chance to fight for themselves. On the other, she is just another harmful stereotype taken a bit too far. Either way, the stage directions and composition of each scene were executed beautifully. Trevaskiss is a powerful actress in her element, Gilson is the model of a distressed father, and Kelly portrays a convincingly doting partner and overbearing producer. The appearances of Ben Newman (director) and Chris Downie provide much needed comic relief. Add a catchy theme song to the mix, and you’ve got a show that leaves you with plenty of food for thought.
Three Black History Month recommendations for you to celebrate Black History Month is so important for sharing, celebrating and understanding the impact of black heritage and culture in our society, as it is so often overlooked. We wanted to do our bit to share and so we have three recommendations here for a documentary or novel for you to enjoy. Billie: In Search of Billie Holiday This documentary covers the life of Billie Holiday, widely regarded as one of the greatest voices of all time. The documentary looks at her life as a black woman working in an industry dominated by white me, basing itself on recordings taken in the 1960s, and heard here for the first time, with some of the key figures in Billie Holiday’s life. Black Power: A British Story of Resistance In this BBC documentary, the British Black Power movement of the late 1960s is centered, speaking for the
first time to many of those who were involved first hand, and bringing light to a cultural revolution which is so often overlooked by historians of Britain. The Vanishing Half by Brit Bennett Brit Bennett’s fantastic novel looks at the life of a pair of twins, growing up in a black community in
the southern United States during the 1960s, looking at the complexities of their racial identities. Bennett creates an intergenerational story of black American history, considering how the past shapes the future and the way in which people are pulled to live a life different from their origins.
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Forge Press
Music
Live Review: The Lathums at the O2 Academy Alfie Dunn
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he Lathums, the breakthrough band of the moment, arrived in Sheffield seemingly with a point to prove. Following the band’s recent meteoric rise which saw them pip hip-hop superstar Drake to number one in the UK’s album charts with their debut album How Beautiful Life Can Be, the quartet really showed beyond doubt how much they deserved that title. In anticipation for The Lathums, the O2 was busy from very early on, the huge crowd entertained early by local indie rockers The Rosadocs. Despite only catching the second half of their set, they were seriously impressive with lead singer Keelan Graney dictating the crowd brilliantly. The crowd reacted well to this too, many already on shoulders, stoking the fire that created an incredible atmosphere later into the night. This energy was also matched by the second support, Rianne Downey. Best described as an eclectic mix of Jake Bugg and Maisie Peters, Downey was exceptional that night, ending her set with a cover of well-known dance track Everytime We Touch by Cascada, further fuelling the
growing crowd. Then it was the time for the main event. The venue was packed from front to back, the only space in the crowd being small channels that the masked O2 workers squeezed through collecting empty cups- a stark reminder that the industry is only just reopening and still somewhat struggling. However, within the first song The Lathums showed just what everyone had been missing out on in the last year. Arguably one of their most popular tracks and certainly the one I discovered first, Fight On set the tone for an energy-filled and overall remarkable night. No sooner had the first riff been played that the first flare of the night was let off in the crowd, creating a festival-like atmosphere throughout the O2. Right from the get-go, frontman Alex Moore’s enthusiasm was infectious.
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The crowd reacted well to this too, many already on shoulders, stoking the fire that created an incredible atmosphere later in the night.
The Lathums debut album beat Drake to the No. 1 spot. Image Credit: Ewan Ogden Flying through the first four songs, which included hits I’ll Get By and Oh My Love, the latter recently being named as Radio X’s record of the week, Moore paused to introduce each member of the band. This was met with the first round of “UK’s number 1” chants from the crowd. This theme continued through the night; the crowd eager to heap praise onto the quartet and the band were happy to take it. Moore jovially danced along to the chants saying: “As vain as it sounds, I wish I could listen to that forever, I’m lovin’ this.” After that came The Lathums most famous track, The Great Escape, reworked for the album and subsequent live shows; it's safe to say it hasn’t lost any of its previous allure. The only word to describe the delivery of the tune was special. From the energy on stage to the crowd reception, it was fantastic to be a part of. The next part of the set was absolutely unreal however. The Lathums performing at Neighbourhood Weekender in September 20201. Image credit: San Crowston
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The only word to describe the delivery of the tune was special. From the energy on stage to the crowd reception, it was fantastic to be a part of. Following The Great Escape and fan-favourite This Place O’ Yours, Moore was left on the stage on his own to conduct his customary solo acoustic set. Starting with album title track How Beautiful Life Can Be and concluding with the first song the band ever wrote, All My Life, the short section was incredible. Following the first chorus of All My Life, Moore admitted he was on the verge of tears, clearly encapsulating the emotion of the moment and how much it meant to him and the crowd, who were on top form. Following the acoustic section, the rest of the band returned for the first of their encores, this time playing
unreleased track Sad Face Baby for one of the first times live, which sounded immense and could be a future classic for the band. The first encore was then concluded by a particularly rousing performance of I See Your Ghost for which one of the biggest pits of the night opened up in the crowd and yet another flare was set off, keeping in line with the festival vibe. A short break ensued before the Wigan band returned one more time for two final songs to cap what was an outstanding performance. The Redemption of Sonic Beauty, the closing track on the album, was particularly noteworthy for Moore’s vocals and preceded the finale of Artificial Screens brilliantly. The final song was all a bit of a blur and had the entire O2 bouncing from back to front. And then that was that. The Lathums came to Sheffield with a lot of recent hype around them and justified it perfectly. You get the feeling that an arena tour isn’t far around the corner for the “UK’s Number 1”.
Monday 25 October 2021
23
Music
Fresh tracks
Easy On Me Adele Hey look, Adele's back.
Just a Notion ABBA Sweden's greatest export continue their return with a reworked demo originally intended for Voulez -Vouz
Inside My Head The Deep Blue A gently groovy, harmony-driven track all about 'the one that got away' from the Mancunian trio
Live Review: Ross from Friends at Hope Works
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Charlie Sweeney hen I originally first heard of Ross from Friends, I, like many people, originally asked why David Schwimmer was performing in the UK. Surely he had better career opportunities? However, after getting past my confusion, and actually listening to the Essexbased electronic DJ (whose real name is Felix Clary Weatherall), I was hugely impressed. His blend of simple synth melodies with complex, intense drums and bass created an incredibly unique sound; a perfect mix of lo-fi production and the technical, precise music of house. I instantly became a huge fan, so when the chance came up to see him perform in Sheffield, I was immensely excited. The venue was Hope
Works: a warehouse turned music venue in the heart of Kelham Island. This industrial setting proved to be the perfect backdrop for the type of music I was going to see. Small and intimate but not cramped, Hope Works has fantastic acoustics and that right mix of grime-y and beautiful. The best way to describe Hope Works is, I feel, romantically rough. Opening acts Otik and Changsie were clearly very talented DJs, with the tough act of preceding the main event. Whilst the crowd was enjoying their music, I felt quite bad for the DJs as their talents weren’t being fully appreciated by what was an understandably distracted crowd. By the time it reached 2:55, however, it was a different story. The half of the room, which at first had been swallowed up by a huge
queue for the bar, dissipated, and what was left in its place was a crowd teeming with anticipation (although I guarantee you there were still a few people there who were expecting David Schwimmer to walk out on the stage). Ross from Friends certainly lived up to the anticipation. Making use of a live saxophone and guitar, as well as the already brilliant sounds of his own machines,
Felix easily delivered one of the best live sets I have seen in ages. The whole production was incredible. The visuals deserve a special mention for how intensely beautiful they were, raising the songs to a whole new level by perfectly matching the emotion of the music. ‘Talk To Me You’ll Understand’ and ‘Love Divide’ were particular highlights, especially the
former which coalesced with the visuals and the atmosphere to create an absolutely incredible performance. I’ve always been a fan of Ross from Friends, but part of me has always thought that it would never be anything particularly of note to see him live. I am so glad I was so wrong, as that night is up in my pantheon of great live acts.
Dig Where You Stand project launched in Sheffield
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Callum Martin
heffield-based poet Otis Mensah has collaborated with Desiree Reynolds, writer in residence at the Sheffield Archives, to deliver a Dig Where You Stand project, unearthing some of the untold stories of local historical residents in Sheffield. The Dig Where You Stand movement started in Sweden in the 70s and is based on promoting public participation in research in local history, especially
labour history. Reynolds has been working with archivists for six months to uncover stories of racialised and marginalised communities in Sheffield, which found the basis for this project. These historical documents and personal stories have been combined with prose and fiction, to give Reynold’s critical responses to an untold side of the city’s extensive history. The project, which is being serialised through local magazine Now Then, also contains contributions from former Sheffield poet
laureate Otis Mensah. A vocal challenger of stereotypes in spaces such as masculinity, race and Britishness through his self-dubbed “Rap Hymns”, Mensah has focussed his work for this project on Samuel Morgan Smith, a black Yorkshire artist from the 1860’s. Through this lens, his poetry will also be displayed alongside Reynold’s work at “hubs” that include Moor Market and Theatre Deli. The timing of the project coincides with October being Black History Month in the UK. The online serialisation is set to continue throughout
the month, with the hub displays running from 2531st October. The overarching goal of the project is to bring a new focus onto an often passedover period of history, not only the lives of ordinary people but the lives of racialised groups of ordinary people during the premodern era. This focus on Sheffield’s black community should be seen as a starting point for other people to investigate their own local history, with Black History Month not the only time through the year for us to appreciate black
history. It’s a time that projects such as this bring it to mainstream attention of the public, and spark an interest in history that has become overshadowed by the whitewashed history often pushed in the British education system. This is best summed up by Reynolds herself, that projects like this prove for those who feel marginalised by society that “we were always here”.
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Forge Press
Music
Album Reviews comes to the fore once more as he acknowledges the toxic masculinity which has consumed his relationship with his father on ‘Spit Of
Sam Fender
Seventeen Going Under
That ever elusive second album, eh? Many a talented musician has failed to recapture the heights of their first body of work. For Sam Fender, however, there is no such ‘sophomore slump’. Two years on since debut LP Hypersonic Missiles rocketed him to the top of the British indie music scene, follow-up Seventeen Going Under looks set to ensure he stays there. Adopting a more introspective lens to his songwriting, Fender bares his soul as he relives some of the most heart-churning memories from his own childhood and adolescence. Although dark in places, Seventeen Going Under ultimately serves as a grand celebration of where he comes from: a coming-ofage story and triumph over adversity. Title track ‘Seventeen Going Under’ certainly reflects this feeling. An instant favourite amongst his army of fans, the fistpumping opener sets the tone for the rest of the record. Underpinned by a gripping guitar hook and punchy, hard-hitting lyrics, the song builds to an expertly-crafted crescendo as the meaning behind the title rears its head – “I see my mother, the DWP see a number/ I’m seventeen going under”. ‘Getting Started’ and ‘Get You Down’ are two bona-fide festival anthems: the former’s feel-good dance grooves followed up by the latter’s juxtaposed self-deprecating lyricism and forceful musical arrangement. The delicate beauty of the Geordie’s lyrics
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The delicate beauty of the Geordie’s lyrics comes to the fore once more You’. It is Fender’s growing versatility as an evolving artist which is particularly impressive on this record. Introducing the piano to prop up the poignant ‘Last To Make It Home’ and the stunning Springsteen-esque closer ‘The Dying Light’, his guitar ability is also notably advanced as he lets rip on ‘The Leveller’ before coolly changing vibe on the gentler, Americana-y ‘Mantra’. The record’s aforementioned final track, ‘The Dying Light’, provides a fitting denouement for an album with overarching themes of resilience and overcoming. A stirring sequel to ‘Dead Boys’ from Hypersonic Missiles, Fender delivers a reason to keep on keeping on amidst any potential mental health struggles that may arise in one’s life. The 27-year-old’s own life story, punctuated by its fair share of hardships growing up in North Shields and yet culminating in being thrust into musical stardom, stands to signify just what can be achieved through perseverance. While Seventeen Going Under may lack the volume of arena-filling hits which characterised its predecessor, it is undoubtedly a more nuanced and sonically cohesive effort which demonstrates Fender’s marked artistic progression. It is Sam Fender’s statement record: cementing himself as one of Britain’s most revered songwriters. Ben Cole
Johnny Marr
Fever Dreams Pt. 1
In a week in which his past as jangle-pop royalty was revived by the unlikely duo of Rick Astley and Blossoms, Johnny Marr demonstrates his refusal to rest on the past, with the upbeat first instalment on his upcoming double album. The ex-Smiths guitarist turned solo artist has spoken frequently prior to his recent solo albums of wanting to create music which would translate to captivating live performances, and this is reflected immediately with the first track “Spirit, Power and Soul”. Marr’s vocals amble across a tense backdrop of electronic percussion and an atmospheric synth cameo reminiscent of his previous band Electronic, before cascading into an instinctively catchy chorus. The promising instrumental of this track is somewhat betrayed however by its insignificant lyrics, where the chorus mantra of “Spirit, Power and Soul” is scattered randomly amongst seemingly unrelated verses where virtually nothing of any sense is said. It’s a tailormade live track which will likely stay in your head all week, but still won’t mean anything by the end of it. “The Receiver” is another attempt at bolstering his live catalogue. However, smatterings of meandering guitar are the only real highlight in a generic synthpop effort where Marr’s vocals fail to provide the gusto for a true banger. The mood shifts on the brilliantly unnerving “All These Days”, where Marr lays down an ingeniously simple guitar riff which combines with a sinister bassline to produce a moody post-punk effort, the album’s definite
highlight. “Ariel” evokes the feeling of Marr’s recent collaboration with Hans Zimmer on the James Bond soundtrack, sparkling guitar lines facing off against rumbling synths further demonstrating his ability to create an eerie mood. This is abandoned however, during the slightly uninspiring and repetitive chorus, which wears thin by the end of the song. While Marr’s commitment to expanding his own creative horizons is admirable and at points undeniably successful, it is frustrating that for large parts of this project he allows himself to be defined primarily by the hit-andmiss search for a big chorus. Moments on this record, do however, provide glimpses of promise for the next edition if the formulaic hunt for an anthem can be ditched. For a man who usually has so much to say in challenging boundaries both musically and with his out-spoken views on society, the project lacks lyrical substance and in parts appears to say very little at all. Patrick Sloan
James Blake
Friends That Break Your Heart
James Blake is a funny one. The super-producer has transcended more genre borders than most have crossed country borders and has one of the widest reaching networks in music, working closely with rappers like Kendrick Lamar and Slowthai, as well as producing for global icons like Beyonce. Yet his music has always been divisive. The styling of his early work was sparse of lyrics, letting the incredible production take
you through unexpected crests and troughs for a truly unique sound. This came to an absolute head with the acclaimed release of Overgrown, which foreshadowed the change to a more conventional music style. And after a slight miscue on Assume Form, he’s back for another shot at a more traditional album. Friends that Break Your Heart is just that. Still backed by ethereal production, the music is carried by the lyrics. This lends to Blake’s growing confidence in his beautiful falsetto and song writing. It really is a good album. But something does feel missing. The subject matter of the pain of losing friendships is an interesting choice. The title-track is a slow, soft ballad that mourns these very losses with touching emotion. Blake also explores the lingering feelings that can be held for an ex on ‘Famous Last Words’, one of the album's lead singles. It is one of the high points of the album and is one of the only songs on the album that does have some sonic changes, creating a sense of unknown movement – that you don’t know what to expect next – that was once ubiquitous in Blake’s work. And that’s what I feel has gone. A once integral part of James Blake just isn’t there. And it’s a real shame. There are still highlights throughout the album but unfortunately, it’s largely quite forgettable. The features from SZA and Monica Martin are a couple of the brighter spots on the album, but “Frozen”, featuring JID and SwaVay, feels out of place and forced. The other feature from Slowthai on “Funeral” is glorious but limited to the deluxe edition, which is another poor artistic choice. I really wanted to like this album but James Blake has underwhelmed again. A decent record, it lacks that special something that made James Blake such a unique and wonderful artist in the early 10’s. If you want to find out what James Blake is really about, listen to Overgrown or The Colour in Everything, but not this. Callum Martin
Monday 25th October 2021
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Screen
Celebrating Black History Month: A Year in Film In the past year, we’ve had some amazing roles played by black actors, and in honour of Black History Month, some of our readers have discussed their favourite films from the last year with a black lead. Although this is only very recent history, we hope that by spotlighting black roles in various films - not just historical retellings - that you will be inspired to watch some of these characters, in the spirit of not just this month, but the whole year round.
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udas and the Black Messiah: A true story of Fred Hampton, the Chicago Black Panther leader assassinated at 21, was an enthralling and gripping watch. This movie is less about the destination and more about the journey, as a biopic, and what a journey it was. Daniel Kaluuya was a charismatic force of power and leadership, encapsulating exactly who Hampton was as chairman of the Illinois chapter of the party. A character equally as interesting was William O’Neal (Lakeith Stanford), the titular Judas, who was turned by the FBI to get close to Hampton in order to take him out. The insight into O’Neal’s conflicted motivations and treasonous character was as important as Hampton’s arc. I’ve been a fan of both actors for years and seeing them together was a joy. The movie itself is a reminder of how long the Black community’s fight against the police has gone on for, and surprising parallels could be drawn between the political climate of today and of the 60s. The end credits give the audience more information about how the movement played out after the film’s ending in 1969, and where the characters are today - many of whom are still alive, and still fighting the cause.. Representation of these stories will always be important, in order to educate the wider public and in order to give lesser represented communities people they can look up to. It’s much more important to have new takes on these stories told, than to
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Soul displays the importance of living for the moment, and giving it everything we’ve got, before it’s too late.
have the same re-hashed films played out year after year. Rahul Warrier
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he Daily Show with Trevor Noah: South African-Swiss TV show host Trevor Noah, famously known for his Trump trolls and tales of South Africa, has kept me sane during the pandemic. His quick wit coupled with woke comedy never disappoints. Switching on the TV to watch The Daily Show where news is disseminated in a light-hearted, comedic manner as compared to the brutal scenes on news channels, especially during a time where I was not in the best headspace, helped me understand what was going on around the world without feeling unsettled. It is also refreshing to see a man of colour hosting such a successful show, and his relatability makes it even more fulfilling to watch. Trevor Noah even addressed a part of his identity and appearance that he didn’t know he was changing to fit in, in a talk with Arsenio Hall on the show. He said that after not being able to cut his hair during the pandemic, he realized how long it had been since he allowed himself to grow it out, as he had unintentionally adopted the idea of what “professional” hair looks like. This was a statement against some Black hairstyles being viewed as “unruly”, and truly reflected the fact that fragments of internalized oppression still exist today. Miette Dsouza
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isney Pixar’s Soul is my film recommendation, both for positive representation of Black culture, and the encouraging main message of the movie. Jazz is central to AfricanAmerican culture, so a
film that emulates the joy of music for generations of people in the US (and worldwide) was on the must-watch list for a lot of us last year, and rightfully so. Joe, voiced by Jamie Foxx, has dreams of making it as a famous musician, whilst being ‘stuck’ in his job of a school band teacher- not quite the level he wants to be at. When his life is cut short, he realises how much he let time pass him by, and is desperate for a second chance. The film teaches its viewers, both young and old, that we should always give our dreams a real chanceanyone can make it, so why not you? It also shows us the importance of living for the moment and giving it everything we’ve got before it’s too late. Jasmine Akalija
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a Rainey’s Black Bottom: In a powerhouse performance, Viola Davis emulates ‘The mother of the Blues’. The Oscar-winning movie, originally a play written by August Wilson showcases a day in the life of Gertrude ‘Ma’ Rainey and her band in a recording studio. The day is a seemingly normal one for all the Black people born in the 20th century and this normalcy of racism and social injustice in 1927 is exactly what the movie calls out through Ma and Levee’s (Chadwick Boseman) characters. Ma went against every norm in the period she lived in as she was a bold, outspoken, LGBTQ woman of colour. She was aware of the racism all around her but demanded respect as she knew her worth. Her voice was her asset and her only leverage in what used to be a white man’s world. Chadwick Boseman as Ma’s band member and trumpeter, Levee also plays
Picture Credits: TheMovieDB an important role as he represents Black youth, full of life, creativity and motivated to accomplish something. Only, he is stifled by social injustice which causes a continuous cycle of hatred, pain and exploitation. Blues music is so culturally significant for all African
Americans, and rarely do you ever hear about the people who popularized it. Hence, I would strongly recommend this documentary and the 30 minute behind the scenes which gives you an insight into the symbolism and
history of the whole movie
Miette Dsouza
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TV Review
Squid Game
Raquel R. Incertis
S
ince it came out, it has been absolutely impossible to get away from the talk about Squid Game. Everyone seems to be insanely hooked on the new Netflix original Korean drama, released less than a
month ago. Twitter memes, Instagram pages, conspiracy theories on TikTok, and indepth analysis in audiovisual forums have all sprung up in an amazingly short time. But what is the key to the show’s unstoppable success? Captivating audiences around the globe in just three weeks, the show written by Hwang Donghyuk has reached more than 111 million viewers, making it Netflix’s biggest original yet, eclipsing even the mighty Bridgerton or The Queen’s Gambit. As with any other
massive topic within the entertainment industry, Squid Game has sparked an intense debate not only over capitalism but also on other critical issues like poverty and inequality which highlight South Korea’s idiosyncrasies, that the Western world is barely even aware of. A major reaction, similar to that of Parasite’s popularity among audiences and success in several international film festivals, has enhanced awareness of the situation beyond our borders, both educating and taking the audience out of its comfort zone. Meaningful, real-life stories inspired the script, with characters struggling to survive in a cruel world that gives them no chance of prosperity at all. Stuck following the status-quo, and dealing with his own inner crisis, Seong Gi-Hun (Lee Jung-jae) and his fellow contestants will become puppets in a bunch of deadly playground games to win a 45.6 billion Won cash
prize. In the meantime, they will lose their humanity, since the ‘competition’ is synonymous with both ‘murder’ and ‘betrayal’. The persistent usage of a specific colour palette during the whole series has been one of the most discussed features on social media. Both green and red patterns seem to be continuously present on-screen, with green depicting innocence, and red, power. Green is, undoubtedly, the colour representing the working class, whereas the elite in charge are dressed in red which is speculated to be symbolic of the blood spilled throughout the game. “Red light, green light” is the very first childish game they have to play in the pursuit of the final prize. Once that step is taken, nothing in their lives will remain the same. In each one of the six lethal challenges, hundreds of contestants have to succeed not only for their own sake, but also to learn a lesson related to popular Korean
traditions. For instance, the game of marbles’ teaches those who play it, loyalty and honesty. Similarly, the way ‘squid game’ is played teaches them about selfsacrifice. Every game hides a moral to bear in mind. I would highly recommend it for a weekend bingewatching session. Squid Game is a melting pot of outstanding former works, such as The Hunger Games, Money Heist and Battle Royale, yet its essence is fresher than any other mainstream dystopia we’ve seen in recent years. After being rejected by countless producers, its creator Hwang Dong-hyuk was fully convinced Squid Game would never see the light of day, let alone on such a powerful content platform as Netflix, but here it is, thirteen years later, beating the platform’s record. I have to say, I’m eager for season two to be announced.
it. The show is set in Madre Linda, a pictureperfect representation of American suburbia. Whilst the couple tries to adapt to life in unfamiliar surroundings, the difficulties of having a child chip away at the walls of the Goldberg-Quinn marriage. However, that doesn’t seem to be the only thing causing a rift between the lovers. Joe’s stalking tendencies are incessant as he soon becomes obsessed with his neighbour and local librarian. As for Love, her only flaw seems to be loving Joe a little too much- So much that she’s willing to kill for him. Although Joe tries to control his stalker tendencies keeping in mind his wife and son, Love’s impulses frequently fly off the rails making Joe seem relatively normal. It’s even slightly comedic to see Joe struggling to appease Love. In previous seasons, Joe was the focus of the show along with his psychopathic
narcissism and carefully calculated plots to kill anyone that came between his latest obsession and himself. But Love steals the spotlight in season three with her frustrating choices, sharp intellect, and profound jealousy. An insight into Joe and Love’s past is also featured in the series. This helps you connect the dots and understand why Love is so comfortable with murder. The pair really try to work at their toxic relationship through couples counselling, rekindling their hobbies and attempting to fix their sex lives, but it has no impact whatsoever on their debilitating marriage. The show even reinforces the popular notion that marriage is hard and visualizes it through another couple called Sherry (Shalita Grant) and Cary (Travis Van Winkle). It highlights the fact that even the happiest looking couples
could still have secrets to hide. The show also attempts to be more relatable as it aligns with the current pandemic with regard to anti-vaxxers and momfluencers. The antianti-vaxxer rhetoric sheds light on the importance of vaccines and the detriments of not getting one, and momfluencer Sherry is also thrown in the mix to relate to influencer culture in our reality. The show takes you on a rollercoaster that doesn’t hold back on any front, whether it’s
drama or death. The seed of doubt which morphs into distrust, the overprotective motherly urges which transform into revenge, and the usual grade A creepiness, are wonderfully portrayed by the actors who have successfully kept the franchise afloat. The real question now is, Can Joe really give up his stalker ways for his new family? Or does his not so perfect marriage come crashing down around him and burn up in a fiery inferno?
Credit: TheMovieDB
TV Review
You Season 3
Miette Dsouza
W
ith the previous season of You ending on a cliff hanger and an indelible plot twist, the promise of a Season 3 brought with it hope of even crazier shenanigans by the killer couple. As the body count piles up, so does the anticipation. In the latest instalment of the infamous psychological thriller, Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley) and his wife, Love Quinn (Victoria Pedretti) with their son, are somewhat domesticated as they navigate their way through a ‘white picket fence purgatory’, as Joe calls
Credit: TheMovieDB
Monday 25th October 2021
Screen
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007’s female future: should this be the next step?
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Credit: TheMovieDB hy a female James Bond isn’nt the way to go.
The James Bond franchise has been dominating global cinema since 1962, being one of the biggest UK money-making attractions of all time. Pierce Brosnan, Timothy Dalton and Sean Connery are just some of the actors who have portrayed the famous character, created by Ian Fleming, with Daniel Craig being the latest 007 to grace our screens. But as Craig’s final Bond movie hits the cinemas, the debate has finally begun: Should 007 be a female character, moving forward? Now, as controversial as this may seem, I don’t think this is the right direction for the franchise to go in. In a recent interview, when asked this very same question, Craig responded with “Why should a woman play James Bond, when there should be a part just as good as James Bond, but for a woman”? And I think he is asking the right question. In the latest Bond film No Time To Die, the four leading ladies all go against the decades-old Bond girl stereotype of being a ‘damsel in distress’. Lashana Lynch’s character even plays a 00 agent, and does so brilliantly. There is no competition between the women in this film, and they all use their screen time to meaningfully impact the storyline, not to mention bringing to life a lot of the action
scenes. There are characters in other series or films that have been portrayed differently over time or have had a gender change, some examples of this being Doctor Who and Bridgerton. However, James Bond is so deeply rooted in tradition as being played by a male, it seems it would be wrong to change what Fleming once envisioned and brought to life so well. It is a similar debate to Sherlock Holmes being played by a woman when really, sometimes there’s no particular reason for this, it just wouldn’t feel right. Now don’t get me wrong, I am a feminist and I’m all here for women being empowered and well represented within the media. With the Bond films, there has historically been a lot of sexism that has thankfully improved over time, and the current female characters in the Bond universe are finally getting the representation they deserve. They have the power to save themselves without the help of a man. In my opinion, it would be far more interesting seeing where these existing female characters’ roles can be taken in the future, without throwing all that progress away to just have one female lead. That said, I will admit, if there is ever going to be a significant revamp in the James Bond universe, now is definitely the time to do it. With Daniel Craig stepping down after 15 years of playing 007, it seems as though
there are some big shoes waiting to be filled. Whether you agree or disagree with the next 007 being a woman, the casting decision on who is next in line will be revolutionary either way, and I can’t wait. At the end of the day, only time will tell what James Bond’s future looks like.
W Hannah Youds
hy we need a female James Bond.
In June 2017, Gal Gadot starred in the first Wonder Woman movie. In December 2017, Jodie Whittaker made her debut as the first female Dr Who. In May 2021, Little Miss Brave was introduced to the Mr Men collection.
Today, there is a lot of cultural progress as women are now becoming a larger voice in pop culture, as protagonists of their own stories rather than the stereotypical damsel in distress. Despite this, there is occasionally still an outcry when women take over characters previously reserved only for men. The disruption of Lashana Lynch’s takeover of Daniel Craig’s role as 007 is no exception. But in a world filled with Harry Potter not Harriet, and Luke Skywalker not Lucy, why isn’t it time for a woman to take over as 007? James Bond is the archetypal, idolised male stereotype. Intelligent. Cool. Collected. Indestructible. Powerful. For decades, this character has been played by a man whilst the parts of beautiful, dependent, vulnerable characters have been reserved for women, strongly reinforcing stereotypical gender roles. This representation then causes stereotypes to strengthen which causes more representations to appear and so the cycle appears. Round and round and round and round. You may, like Daniel Craig, ask: “why should a woman play James Bond when there should be a part just as good as James Bond, but for a woman?”, but it is more complex than that. A female taking over as 007 is a statement. It breaks the cycle. It says that women do
not need specialised treatment, and can take over the role of a man just as well - a message sometimes forgotten among the separation of football teams and women’s football teams, of business institutes and women’s business institutes. The takeover says women aren’t prepared to be dismissed and it is time for our intellect, composure, and power to be acknowledged as female traits. The immense fame of the James Bond films makes this statement a loud, strong one as it reaches out to all young women and says “yes, you can!”, whereas creating a new spy for women specifically says that we are too intimidated to invade this space and politely suggests “maybe?”. Films are a huge part of mass media and therefore have a huge influence over society. With this in mind, writers and directors should be aware of how better, more accurate representation can positively impact and inspire those who it represents. Films are not just modes of entertainment, they have power to change mindsets. That is why we need 007 to be taken over by a woman. We need a stir that will start a much bigger conversation, a conversation that has the ability to inspire a whole generation of young women. Charlotte Crosby
Credit: TheMovieDB
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Games
How to get your friends into D&D (and other TTRPGs) with a Halloween one-shot Tabletop roleplaying games are fantastic ways to have fun with your friends; Reiss Mason shares his favourite methods for conjuring up terrifying tales this spooky season.
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ightning crashes against the fortress’ stoney exterior and rain cascades down upon a dreary garden overlooked by a single window, silky red curtains drawn. Inside, a group of five sit around a black wooden table draped with crimson cloth, their dark hoods all drawn, and they speak in tongues which do not belong to them. One screeches, “We should kill ‘im; good-fer-nothin’ barkeep is overchargin’ us!”, while another in deeper tenor warns with fist clenched, “Careful young one, else I shalt dash thine innards across the wall.” Two of the other hooded figures join in on the confusing debate, but before their squabble can descend into violence, one figure sat behind a wooden screen leaps up from the table, arms outstretched, and yells: “Enough!” Everyone holds their tongue and whips round to look at the dramatic pose of their leader. The standing individual lowers one of their hands to pick up a book, from which they read: “The barkeep, who until now had been terrified of the group discovering his true identity, draws a longsword from behind the bar, bears his bloody vampiric fangs, and leaps into an attack!” The 4 bickering friends gasp and grab their dice, ready to roll initiative.
TTRPGs (tabletop roleplaying games) are incredible for building connections with your friends and even with people you’ve never met before. I’ve been playing D&D (the most popular TTRPG) since the start of my teens and with each new group of friends I’ve made at each new stage in my life, D&D has always been there to bring us closer together. The thing all TTRPGs are good at is putting people in those situations we see in our favourite movies, video games, and books. Whether that’s hunting down the man who slaughtered all your loved ones like Kill Bill, learning the names of every person in town before robbing the potion store like Skyrim, or uncovering the secrets of a long-abandoned dwarven mine like Lord of the Rings, TTRPGs are the perfect place to craft both epic and personal stories between friends. In this article, I’ll be giving you some quick tips to help you run a single Halloween-themed session of D&D (sorry, NoDDSoc) to give your friends a glimpse of what TTRPGs have to offer. Firstly, you need to work out what spooky stories your friends already like so you can rip them off wholesale. I’m not kidding. Do they like World War Z? Then this
session is about curing the rapidly-spreading zombie virus. Do they like slasher flicks? Then come up with a cheesy bad guy in a ski mask and start killing some NPCs. Whatever fiction they’ve experienced before, you want to replicate that because people, especially new players, will have a preexisting relationship with the material for you to exploit. For new players, D&D 5th edition’s rules can seem dense and daunting, so don’t stick to the rules too harshly and use low-level pre-generated characters to ease them into the process. Obviously outline the basic rules, if you have access to a starter set or other reference material let them use it often, but be lenient enough to get your friends making creative choices and thinking outside the box. This will make them engage with the game you’re trying to run better because they’ll feel like they are genuinely impacting events, even when you have
things running tightly. Make your bad guy memorable and full of tropes. There’s a reason everyone loves Count Dracula: he’s sexy, charming, and he’s really good at counting up to one hundred! Stuff your baddie full of tropes and silly voices and let them wreak havoc on your friends. Much praise is given to Curse of Strahd as a campaign and I think that is in part because the villain is so good that the book encourages you to regularly have Strahd (the titular vampire) show up. In your one-shot, this could be achieved by having the villain taunt your players as they explore their evil lair, or by leaving calling cards for the
heroes to find. Nothing will engage players more than having a good soundscape or soundtrack to accompany their heroic deeds, so use music your friends recognise from all types of media to control the mood. Only do this, however, in private games - don’t try to pass off the opening theme to Game of Thrones as something you have the rights to use in a livestream; you will get sued. That said, video game soundtracks are the perfect source for all manner of audio because they face the same challenges you do when it comes to engaging a player with every possible sense. My favourite soundtracks for D&D come from The Witcher 3 for its blended emphasis on fantasy and action, Bloodborne for a mixture of creepy atmosphere and epic orchestrations, and Hollow Knight for low moments filled with lingering dread and subtle beauty.
Images: Sesame Street, Count von Count; WotC, D&D, Castle Ravenloft; Reiss Mason
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Games
Fresh games
Far Cry 6 XBS S/X, XBO, PS4, PS5, PC Ignite the fight for freedom, again, and exact revenge on Gus Fring for doing our boy Heisenburg dirty.
My first 60 minutes with...
Metroid Dread
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Reiss Mason
’d only ever played one Metroid game before Dread, and that was the original Nintendo Entertainment System game via the Switch’s NES emulator. I didn’t really get on with it. The rusty graphics, clunky controls, and seemingly counterintuitive level design plagued my first (and only) hour in-game with minor inconvenience and aimless wandering. It would be fair to say that I haven’t been a Metroid fan since that experience, however, after my first hour with Dread, I don’t think that statement is true anymore. Dread is the first game in the series since Metroid Fusion, which released in 2002, 19 years ago! It’s no wonder nobody in my generation is a fan of Metroid when we haven’t had a new instalment released
during our lifetime. And having played Dread for a whole hour I have only one question. Why not?!? This game is unlike everything else on the market. Well, that’s not true. In the 19-year series hiatus, fans have taken to releasing their own games heavily inspired by Metroid and Castlevania, intelligently coined as “metroidvanias”. You’ve probably played some of these: Slay the Spire, Hollow Knight, Ori and the Blind Forest are but a few examples that I’ve personally tried. These games took the elements from their original inspirations which were amazing (and which I clearly failed to see the potential in first time around) and made games for the modern audience that are way more accessible and that hone into
Back 4 Blood XBS S/X, XBO, PS4, PS5, PC Team up with your friends in this 4 player co-op zombie horde shooter reminiscent of Left 4 Dead.
what we want out of games nowadays. So when I tell you that Metroid Dread is everything that a modern metroidvania should be and more, know that it’s because while the Metroid series itself has been MiA for almost two decades, the formula has been honed to an impeccably tight experience. In the first hour of Dread you encounter one of the game’s best new features: the slinky, creepy EMMI bots, which mercilessly hunt you down through level-scapes and brutally execute you upon capture. These dreaded (oh I get it now) androids are heavily reminiscent of the Xenomorph from Alien, and their raw speed and dedication to mashing your brains in are no exception, so you constantly feel the pressure to escape. The EMMI units are confined to a single area of patrol within their section of the map which is denoted ingame by a hazy film grain and ominous soundscape of drowned beeps and
boops. This underlines your desperate attempts to listen out for the EMMI, unknowingly at the same time as it’s listening out for you, ever increasing the uncertainty welling in the pits of your stomach. Entering these areas feels like jumping into the bottom of a deep, murky lake, and it’s not until the danger is right in front of you that you see the bloodthirsty shark angling to take a not-sohealthy chunk out of your lower intestine. Dread’s level design intelligently forces you to learn the lay of the land, but also does a masterful job of keeping you in the dark about the best way to truly perfect traversal until you have more abilities; in an hour I felt I had a good understanding of which doors lead to which rooms, but I couldn’t have told you with any confidence whether that was the best way of getting from A to B. And briefly let’s mention how smoothly Samus controls. Movement is slick
Mario Party Superstars Switch Play across 5 classic game boards from the Nintendo 64 era in this remastered party phenomenon.
and precise, pressing LB to swiftly whip out the arm cannon and effortlessly aim it with precision is satisfying, as is the responsiveness of quickly switching directions upon realising that the fucking KILLER ROBOT is that way and I need to run away, fast! Every little bit of movement feels deliberate, which is arguably the game’s biggest Dark Souls influence (every game’s got to have one) and is a good excuse to pump up the difficulty of some intense moments like boss fights and EMMI pursuits. After this short experience with Metroid Dread, I can confidently call myself a fan, and I diligently look forward to my future hours spent getting spanked by the Xenomorph’s automated cousin. Just as long as he uses the leather paddle and not his rupturing face spike. Metroid Dread - Nintendo Top (in order): Far Cry 6 - Ubisoft; Back 4 Blood Turtle Rock Studios; Mario Party Superstars - Nintendo
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Sport
Sport thoughts Has Morgan Gibbs-White been the signing fan expected? Ellie Fish
Britain’s Strongest Man returns to Sheffield Ben Woodcock Some of the strongest men on the planet will battle it out for the title of Britain’s Strongest Man this Saturday at Sheffield’s Utilita Arena. Strength fans will watch in awe as the likes of Tom ‘The Albatross’ Stoltman (currently World’s Strongest Man), Luke ‘The Highland Oak’ Stoltman (currently Europe’s Strongest Man) and Adam ‘Bish’ Bishop (currently Britain’s Strongest Man) go head-to-head carrying, loading, lifting and pressing weight which the average Joe could only dream of emulating. Bishop has reigned over Britain’s strongest for 18 months since the last competition was held, making him the longest holder of the title since Jimmy Marku won in 2008, as the next competition was
not held again until 2012. Meanwhile, the Stoltman brothers from Invergordon, a small coastal town in the Scottish Highlands, have dominated the World and Europe in what has been their best season yet. Since winning WSM, Tom has struggled with a hamstring injury but is
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Bishop has reigned over Britain’s strongest for 18 months since the last competition was held, making him the longest holder of the title since Jimmy Marku won in 2008
now back to full fitness and goes into Britain’s a strong favourite alongside Luke who has also faced niggles in his bicep and shoulder but still came out on top at Europe’s strongest man by beating his brother and USA’s Evan Singleton. Also in the field is the seemingly indestructible Mark Felix. It feels like the 55-year-old has been competing since before time began; he has six Britain Strongest Man podium finishes to his name, his first came all the way back in 2006 when he finished second. Another three second place finishes followed along with two third place finishes in what has been a long and illustrious career both in Britain and on the world stage. Two men who will be looking to cause an upset are Andy Black and Graham Hicks. Scotsman Black has burst onto the strength scene in the last couple of years and has quickly established himself among the best in the UK. Meanwhile, Hicks will be aiming to bounce back from over a year hampered with injuries which has curtailed his chances at World’s Strongest Man competitions the last two years.
Just as the transfer window closed in September, Sheffield United signed up Morgan Gibbs-white on loan from wolves. There was hope this would be the thing the Blades needed to move forward, and as it turns out it has been exactly that. Gibbs-White joined a relegation battle with Sheffield United, who has failed to win a game since the start of the season. The Blades were missing something, upfront they just couldn’t seem to score, and it was costing them a lot. So, what could the promising 21-year-old do? Since the attacking midfielder joined the side, the team have won four of their previous matches. The first win came in a thrilling performance for Gibbs-White and the team as they hammered Peterborough 6-2. Gibbs-White was crucial in this game as he paired with Iliman Ndiaye to create play and goals. GibbsWhite also took his first goal on debut. Gibbs-White has shown his skills throughout all seven appearances, taking three goals and two assists which have been crucial for the blades. He has showcased just the talent that the team and fans expected him to have, as he has created a lot of chances and enabled the better form from the team. From the perspective of Sheffield United, it has been crazy to see how one player can have so much influence and impact on the team. His change into the side has
seemingly made the team a lot better and stronger. The loss of the likes of Jack O’Connell and Dean Henderson was quoted as the downfall of the team in the 2020/21 Premier League season, and so, fans will be hoping for a different story when Gibbs-White is recalled to Wolves in January. Considering Gibbs-White’s form, it wouldn’t be so surprising to see Wolves call him back. But it is hoped he can stay and carry this momentum with the Blades. Since Gibbs-White joined the side, there has been a noticeable change in the team’s fortunes. Despite a loss against Bournemouth, the Blades still fought hard and looked as if they could win. It just showed the difference between the start of the season and now. Gibbs-White has been the crucial impact that Sheffield United needed to be able to challenge for the play-offs and promotion. If he continues the impact which he is having on the team, the blades could probably find themselves in the promotion battle rather than a relegation one.
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It has been crazy to see how one player can have so much influence and impact on the team. His change into the side has seemingly made the side a lot better
Monday 25 October 2021
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Sport
Report: B.Braun Sheffield Sharks fall to Manchester Giants at Ponds Forge
Report: Owls win against Bolton in League One encounter at Hillsborough Liam FitzPatrick Ellie Fish South Yorkshire welcomed basketball fans, as Manchester Giants defeated Sheffield Sharks 68-85 at Ponds Forge on Friday 8th October 2021 in a closely contested encounter that went back and forth. The Sharks seemed to be in control straight away, and scored in the first minute thanks to Jordan Ratinho, but the Giants equalised later on. After a tight first half, the home team took the lead again through Jonathan Williams, who scored immediately after being substituted in with only 21 seconds remaining, leaving the Giants at a disadvantage at the end of the first quarter. The Sharks began the second half with a two point lead, but failed to keep their momentum up. The Giants led by one point at the end of the second quarter. Fortunately, the poor end to the quarter did not impact the attitude of the Shark fans, whose
enthusiasm stayed strong as they cheered and showed their support. The Sharks made an unsuccessful attempt to pick up their pace and settle back into their passing rhythm. However, the Giants regained possession of the ball, and captain Dan Clark, who scored 20 points and had seven assists that game, allowed his team to take the lead by four points. Both teams continued to be neck and neck, until McKnight beat the buzzer, once again allowing the Giants to edge closer to victory. While the last quarter kicked off with a three-pointer by the Sharks, their efforts were not enough to turn the game around. The home team lacked a strong defense, which resulted in the Giants being 17 points ahead in the last quarter, as McKnight scored the last basket. The Sharks travel to Cheshire Phoenix on 10th October, before welcoming the Newcastle Eagles on 15th October. Both games are part of the BBL Cup.
Sheffield Wednesday got back to winning ways with a nervy 1-0 win over Bolton at Hillsborough. Wednesday had struggled off late, while the visitors were riding a three match winning streak and were sat on the edge of the top six. It was a surprisingly frantic start as Saido Berahino came close within seconds before some questionable defending gave Bolton an opening at the other end just a minute later. Bolton were the better side throughout the majority of the opening 45 minutes , enjoying the lions’ share of possession but failing to create any clear cut chances. The hosts struggled to retain possession and when they did have it, they seemed unsure what to do with it, continually giving the ball away and playing backwards towards the goalkeeper. The 23,000 strong crowd began to grow frustrated, leading to an uneasy and tense atmosphere inside Hillsborough as the clock ticked towards the interval. But as the half neared its close, Darren Moore’s side began to grow into the game and Lee Gregory gave Bolton
their first scare in the 37th minute, his header pushed over the crossbar by Matt Gilks in the Wanderers goal. Minutes later, Berahino stole possession on the edge of the box but fired narrowly wide. When the half time whistle sounded, it was the home side in the ascendancy and Bolton manager Ian Evatt will have been relieved to get his players into the dressing room after seeing his side lose control of the game. The second half saw Bolton threaten again with Joe Wildsmith pushing away Eoin Doyle’s close range effort on 48 minutes. The game had an end to end feel and the feeling was that one moment of quality would be enough to settle the game. As the clock ticked past the hour mark, the home supporters again voiced their displeasure, three points being vital for Wednesday who prior to this fixture had 2.86 less points than the average figure for promoted teams at this stage of the season. The breakthrough eventually came in the 66th minute as Gregory drilled the ball past Gilks to score what would prove to be the winning goal. Bolton didn’t give up though and pressed
for an equaliser, giving the Owls a few nervy moments. Declan John fizzed a low cross across the six yard boss but there wasn’t anyone there to steer it home – much to the frustration of the 3,000 visiting fans who had travelled from Lancashire. Oladime Shodipo failed to have the impact he might have imagined when coming on as a 73rd minute substitute – he was booked immediately for simulation. Bolton had a decent spell of possession in the closing minutes as Wednesday camped behind the ball and looked to prevent a dramatic late equaliser. A succession of easily dealt with corners in stoppage time was the closest they came to a goal and the hosts wrapped up a big three points. Wednesday’s win sees the hosts move level on points with their visitors and they climbed into eight place, two points off MK Dons who currently occupy the last playoff spot. Up next for The Owls is Tuesday night’s trip to Cambridge United before they welcome Lincoln City to Hillsborough on Saturday 23rd October.
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Forge Press
Sport
Tennis Club back to competing in BUCS leagues after pandemic Miriam Kuepper After a Covid-break last year, the tennis club is back competing in BUCS leagues games against other universities. After the first fixtures, the club has two wins and two losses in the books. Carlos Suarez and Karolina Aleksandrowicz, captains of the men’s and women’s squads respectively, are glad to be back after a long break due to the pandemic. Aleksandrowicz said: “Being back on the court and playing matches again is a dream come true.” Suarez adds that playing for the tennis team and competing in BUCS leagues has been a big part of his university life: “Last year without BUCS leagues – and not being able to play tennis in general – was extremely hard on me. It had a detrimental effect on my mental health which in turn affected my academic studies.” Beloved BUCS
Both captains have participated in the BUCS leagues before. “Tennis and BUCS leagues were such a big part of my first year in Sheffield – it brings back good memories and encourages me to create the same happy memories and a supportive environment for this year’s team”, said the tennis loving women’s captain, Karolina Aleksandrowicz, who’s now in her third year of her business management undergraduate degree. The travel time to the matches depends on the location of the opposing university team. The tennis club’s away fixtures include weekly trips to York, Leeds and Durham, which can range from one to up to three hours of travel time. Suarez, who is studyin a masters in music composition, enjoys the long trips, as he reveals: “My favourite memories are bonding with teammates over long distance road trips to away matches.” Building up a new elite
While both men’s teams were successful in the first two Wednesdays of BUCS fixtures, the women’s teams lost their games. Nevertheless, the women’s captain is happy with the teams’ performances: “It was the debut games for most of the members, and unfortunately we were struggling with small injuries
and organisational problems, but I believe starting next week we will show what we are really capable of.” The team leaders agree that the teams need some time to adjust to new players and to build up a new elite, since they lost many valuable players after they graduated. Suarez states: “Despite losing key first team players,
we managed to keep the core of the team intact whilst recruiting strong second team talent. The quality in squad depth will no doubt work in our favour as the season progresses.” Ambitious goals? The goal for the BUCS leagues this season is to finish above Leeds Beckett and varsity rivals Sheffield Hallam, in order for the teams to get promoted to a higher BUCS league. Especially the men’s squads are aiming for this promotion, as Suarez revealed. To achieve this, the teams train twice a week. The captains work with the coaching staff and provide weekly information about each player’s performances during training and the BUCS matches. This information is used to work together to plan out training sessions to maximise improvement. Both captains have a positive outlook for the next BUCS fixtures and are gunning for the next win. How well their plan pans out, will be seen in their next BUCS games on 27 October. BUCS is short for British Universities & Colleges Sport, which is the national governing body for Higher Education Sport in the UK. Its goal is to get students involved in competitive sport and thus creating an engaged university community. Many of Sheffield’s sport clubs have teams competing against other universities in the BUCS leagues.