Quench - Issue 113 by Cardiff Student Media

FEATURES - FILM FASHION TRAVEL - ARTS MUSIC - FOOD & DRINK BOOKS - PHOTOS - LGBT+

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CONTENTS ISSUE 113

Ed.Note Do or Die Features Fashion Photos Travel Food & Drink Arts LGBT+ Books Music Film

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Editor's Note Cardiff is calling. Will you answer? There are all manner of cultural events and goings-on jostling for your attention this month. Indeed, within the same fortnight, Cardiff shall play the charming host once again to the Iris Film Festival and SWN, providing you with very few excuses to stay at home and ignore the city’s cries to Quench has even done the hard work for you, presenting you with a comprehensive list of the ‘miss-it-or-miss-out’ aspects of both festivals. This means that you can go forth and explore our fair city’s artistic bounty with minimal effort, but maximum enjoyment. If festivals aren’t your thing, which would be odd…but to each their own, then perhaps you would like to just pour yourself a hot drink and peruse some of Quench’s other sections and digest the handsome pages at your leisure? Fashion have been out and about stalking some of Cardiff ’s most fashionable Freshers to see who stands a cut above the rest in the University’s fashion stakes, whist our Film boys have taken the time to bring you all the latest news and reviews for your viewing pleasure. Perhaps travel is more your bag (or rucksack), in which case Quench has brought you a feature on places that can be reached easily within Cardiff, and how to get there. For those who are already bored of what lies within the city limits, we have also included an article on Burma. You may need something more than a day pass on the bus to get there, though. Don’t send Cardiff through to voicemail. Make sure you answer.

quench@gairrhydd.com

Gavin Jewkes (Editor)

Do or Die

Do or Die Fight boredom phone first Children from small Cornish towns must get creative to tackle their boredom. One summer as Cornish 6 year olds, we decided to invest in a load of pink water

rubber in an aquarium tank we were ready to sell them as Cornish sea urchins to gullible tourists. Luckily we never got caught, partly because our local policeman spent every morning catching speeding 'outsiders' (tourists), sitting slying after a blind bend in the country road. This got us thinking… from then on, we spent every morning standing just before the bend with two signs. 1) Speed check ahead, 2) tips. Although we had to time it carefully, lets just say we made enough that summer for many Fast forward to now, and exploiting tourists and tricking policemen are less advisable hobbies. However, when we once had pocket money and tamigotchis we now have student loans and mobile phones. This fortnight, stop stalking a friend of a friend on Facebook, beat boredom with the latest, greatest, and bizarrest apps. Lucy Trevallion

Funny Call Because we no longer have to huddle around mum’s landline for a prank phone call, we are so mature we can have our own prank calling equipment! Listen as your sleazy mate gets a pre-recorded call from an angry man screaming ‘why are you calling my girlfriend in the middle of the night?’ or scare the housemate who finished the milk again with a call about fines for illegally downloaded music.

Pick up line There's the good ‘You know what? Your eyes are the same colour as my Porsche’ to the bad ‘If you were the new burger at McDonalds you’d be the McGorgeous’ to the downright ugly ‘Is that top felt?’ ‘No’ ‘Would you like it to be?’ Blower. Why blow out your own birthday candles when your phone speaker can produce air pressure and do it for you? Ipoo. Get bored on the loo? There’s an app for that! You can share with others where, when, what and how you poo.

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FaceKandi, since chat roulette got cancelled as an app Facekandi was born so you can do bizarre things with webcams from any location. Post-freshers free time will never be the same again.

Ibubblewrap. If you have the attention span of a squirrel and need stress release,

Features

Say 'bore da!' to Al Lewis Cute, Welsh and a voice of beauty, Al Lewis’s music is something not be to missed. I noticed his quirky album cover on a poster in Cafe Nero (no less) and was instantly intrigued. His website is charm itself, and provides you with the option of viewing content in either English or Welsh. Al's talents extend beyond his bilingual tongue; indeed, his musical talents are sensational and the kling of guitar strings. He is perhaps more estab-

lished in the Welsh language music scene, having won the ‘Song for Wales’ televised competition, and spending several weeks at number one on the Welsh Language Album Chart. Yet, he recently released his debut English solo album ‘In the Wake’, and is starting to gain recognition among those more familiar with the English tongue. After seeing him perform live in Clwb-Ifor-Bach I emailed Al just to check he was just a normal guy behind those lyrics and musical notes.

Would you rather splash in puddles in wellington Boots, or jump waves wearing Flip Flops? Deﬁnitely jump waves.

If you were to invent a new instrument what would you call it? The Talent-Enhancer.

Do you rate the Blackberry or the iPhone? I am a big Apple fan – so the iPhone all the way.

In your album ‘In the Wake’ which track is your favourite? Why? ‘Life on the Wire.’ I like the way it builds up from something small.

Imagine you are a Jungle animal that makes the noise of a farm animal. Which animal, and animal sound would you be/make? I would be a gorilla who makes the sound of a goat. Do you feel as though you have to live up to a singersongwriter lifestyle? Not really. I am quite happy in my own skin, and don't tend to follow any trends or lifestyle choices. How do you make sure you stay grounded to Cymru? Being Welsh is as much a mentality as it is simply coming from a particular place. I therefore always carry my Welshness around with me.

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The past four years have been really successful for you; in four words describe the ride. Positive, Tough, Fulﬁlling and Tricky Your music is likened to James Taylor and Al Stewart of the 70’s, but with a twist of modernity. How did you stumble across this genre of music? Simple really, it is what Mum used to listen to when I was a kid.

If GIG was an acronym what would you make the letters stand for? Giant Insect Golf. How far do you want to take yourself musically? To the moon. Do you strive to enter the UK Ofﬁcial Chart Show, or are you happy to take things as they come? It would be nice, but small steps I think is what is needed for sustainability as an artist. Raspberries, or strawberries? Both. Describe an ideal time and place where you would love to sit and compose. In the back room of my ﬂat, on an Autumnal afternoon. Tell us, you were Cafe Nero’s ‘Artist of the Month;’ Cappuccino, latte or espresso? Cappuccino...! Interview by Camilla Flint

Features

Welcome to the Jungle

Nothing But Love For Cardiff

The after dark world of every British city is ridden with paralytic youngsters crawling on the street, unwarranted brawls and impudent behaviour. You may feel that the city centre or even outside the union becomes a nightmarish landscape for anyone with even slightly sober eyes, and that perhaps it’s a bit much for you. Or, on the other hand, you may worship the jesting, shameless lifestyle of those you see . But there’s no need to despair at the state of our city, on the contrary, if binge drinking is a nationwide phenomenon (and concern), at least Cardiff is a beautifull city to get not-so- jolly and friendly men in purple dresses to chat to while you wait for your taxi home... Alexi Gunner

English is the day to day language for native Welsh speakers.

in Britain and has more hours of sunlight than Milan! Cardiff is a city of parks and has more green space per person than any other UK city.

It’s brilliant there. I go to the pub and see everybody who I went to school with. And everybody goes 'So what

Hopkins.' And they go, 'Ooh, good.' And that's it. Catherine-Zeta Jones

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For anyone arriving in Cardiff to study, I'm sure the need to do some research on the city must have crossed your mind. Upon doing so, perhaps you stumbled across a treasure trove of photos named Cardiff at Night their portrayal of alcohol-fuelled revelry, taken in the vicinity of St. Mary’s street and 'Chippy Lane', their global exposure has certainly played a part in how the Welsh metropolis is viewed by the rest of the world. Majiec, an ex-Cardiff University student, has denounced the negative publicity that his images have earned Cardiff. 'Welsh people are very friendly and open,’ Majiec asserts. 'The atmosphere is very cheerful and everyone likes to have a good time.' Because the truth is that scenes like this aren’t typical Cardiff, they are typical Britain.

Features

Cardiff may be calling, but Barry is Booming

Barry Island, nestled on what is controversially no longer an island, surpasses the exuberance of Cardiff. Docks built over a century ago ensured that Barry was safely anchored to South Wales coastline; this ingenious man-made connection meant that Barry Island became easily accessible to the folk of South Glamorgan, and that Whitmore Bay and Barry itself quickly became the summer seaside destination of choice. The renowned Welsh resort is no longer home to Barry Butlins as it was in the resort's heyday, but the tinny sounds of penny arcades, tea-cup rides and the merry-go-round are still whipped around

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of greasy chips and seagull droppings that still linger in the air, much as they did decades ago. Do not to be disillusioned by what Barry Island has to offer, it is important that you prepare for Mr Cheap’s hometown. Barry Island is, after all, essentially the epicentre of planet tack. Don't let tack put you off though, for on the other side of the gay amusement park lies Whitmore Bay: a gloriously sandy, open and simple beach. Of course Barry’s beach is no match for the Galapagos Isles, but for the sake of Wales it is our charming and affordable equivalent. It even boasts the second largest tidal range in the world! So there! For those avid BBC 3 fans, Barry Island is home to Gavin and Stacey – yes there is proper proof to the existence of Marco’s Cafe. And in the cute gift shops there is the opportunity to buy all sorts of useful items, all of which are very much Stacey and Gavin related, of course. There should be an encyclopaedia for Barry’s various sources of entertainment. Of course there is the amusement park, but there is also the esteemed mini golf, laser quest, and at least four arcades: arcades of serious penny gambling – so addictive, and equally good for eating up your loose change. You can’t go far without being tempted numerous ice-cream stalls. Barry Island is but a thrifty train ride away, and it screams of childish fun in the sun. And if the sun’s not shining, head down anyway – you don’t Welsh gem.

''Pam: Barry Island? You're having the wedding in Wales? Over my dead body. Where you having the reception, on the log flumes? Hot dogs and candy floss served up by some gyppo on a donkey??? Gwen: Perhaps Stacey doesn't want to get married in Essex. What is she going to do there, totter down the aisle in a mini skirt and white stillettos? Pam : Shut it you leak munching sheep shagger!

Features

Cardiff:Straight from the Horse's Mouth Cardiff is really fun and friendly. I needed a map for a while, which seems ridiculous now. I wouldn’t live here, but for uni I love the city life. Cardiff is quite a small city, so we know its ins ion. It was really weird but it was so easy getting to know people. Guys in Cardiff aren’t great; it’s all about the UWIC and Glamorgan rugby lads! However, the freshers here this year are phwoar! I’m from North Wales so Cardiff was the obvious choice for me. My friend here just liked the idea of being in another country

It’s a rubbish city literally. There’s not enough bins.

It’s a pretty big town and there’s a good city life.

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Cardiff is absolutely fantastic. It’s located perfectly 20 minutes south of the valleys and 20 minutes east of some beautiful beaches. There’s also lots to do in the city. No wonder so many stay here after they graduate. The majority of the students are lovely, especially here at ENCAP!

Fashion

Cardiff Couture Bored of the same old waredrobe? Fed up with the high street? With the fun and frolics of freshers fortnight over and a good chunk of our student loans spent, we may wonder whether we'll ever be able to shop again. But don't dismay! Hannah Davies says "get creative" with a little help from recyclable materials. Spotlights swivel around the room and the music is in full swing to drown out the darkness. The

But wait. No, that can’t be right.

The talented students had a tall order to follow

conclude the project and organise a catwalk show goodie bags.

swear that girl was wearing a dress made out of bin liners! No, it can’t be. Another model heads This time the garment she’s wearing consists of a

but it was all for a good cause. The show was con ducted to raise awareness of economical fashion, and the students created beautiful designs out of

spikes…

designers to nourish the world of fashion through

ing some poor student attempt to put together a far as to wear a bin bag out (even if it was consid

ing the work of a collection of fashion design stu dents from the ATRiuM show (our equivalent of London fashion week), which was situated in Cardiff last week.

We are fortunate to witness such talent and for ward fashion right here on our doorstep, and it is about time we recognised Cardiff as a fashion hub where future designers can develop the future of deserve a round of applause.

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Fashion

ECO WARRIOR

The most creative (and perhaps most wearable) pieces from the show.

1. Girl v grunge

Cardiff born, fashion bred.

chick. The clear focus of the garment is the paper studs that clash with the again, and to top it all off Swn festival is oured top and deep pink Cardiff with the newest music. However, it of the stark contrast of the materials and design.

ion. Hannah Davies caught up with two of Cardiff's coolest fashion enthusiasts for a cup of tea and a chat about Cardiff fashion, and all things Swn.

(made out of hair) cre ates a new twist on the

2. Beautiful worm

Book-

thing other than a cof fee coaster or an object

about using the book pages as a dress and That's what one clever student did with this lit

to make a lasting im pression in lectures! 3. Fast forward.

Name: Mia Holt Occupation: Journalism student and fashion blogger. Favourite thing in the world: Tea! How did you begin fashion blogging?

had a great response since! How would you describe your style?

is versatile because of the in with the sequin trend this wear). The future of gothic glamour has arrived.

me in skinnies and oversized vintage cardigan,

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ting with videotape. The ef fect is dramatic and gothic,

Fashion Who is your favourite designer? Occupation: Fine Art student and occasional pre Fave thing: Lines are great. street weakness! Sum up Cardiff fashion in three words.

Best places to shop in Cardiff ?

the best winter jumpers around! What is the future of the Cardiff fashion scene? vintage fashion, and due to this seasons obsession with all things unique and used, it's a perfect lo

signers like Hugo Boss are recognising Cardiff as a shopping hot spot and setting up their shops on our high streets. One of the newest fashion addi label, which has been set up in the gorgeous Vic

Sum up Cardiff fashion in three words. Safe as milk! Favourite fashion haunts?

Any advice to new shoppers in Cardiff ? There's more to Cardiff than just the high street shops. Keep it real! Will you be attending Swn festival this year?

designers are noticing Cardiff's hidden treasures like the arcades. Swn festival is fast approaching, what are your festival fashion must-haves?

What artists are you most looking forward to seeing? Dancers. What fashion styles are you expecting to see at the festival? tage going down with the cool kids!

Three basic garments for Autumn/Winter 2011?

Just for fun, what super power would you have and why?

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public?

Best item of clothing you've ever owned? A batman cape.

would you choose and why?

tival which will be taking place in venues around com/

mation, visit madeinroath.com

Fashion

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Fashion hits Freshers

Fashion Keeping with the fashion fashion team headed out to hunt for the best dressed at the freshers ball. Not

ionable freshers but saluted our second Here's some of our favourites, followed

ball. Winners please prizes!

Fashion hits Freshers

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Fashion

Fashion fades, only style remains the same. - Coco Chanel

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And the winners are...

Photos

Go On, Make Me an Offer... When one local photographer embarked on a social documentation project he soon uncovered a trove of forgotten archives that revealed far more than he bargained for.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Snap!â&#x20AC;?

Remember the wonderful sound that those little point-and-shoot

to hunt around for these little gems and then

ered one of these gems and has been hunting -

aims to highlight the inevitable demise of the

wander around with a small point-and-shoot -

quenchphotos@gairrhydd.com

Photos

Reviews...

quenchphotos@gairrhydd.com

'Portraits' Competition Winner: Jim Hemming, who will receive a print. For next week the them is "Heatwave!" Send your images to: qunechphotos@gairrhydd.com

Photos

Travel

The Ethical Dilemma: Should we visit Burma?

Alex Ulyet questions the moral and ethical predicament travellers face when deciding whether to visit Burma. discourage people from going to Burma in both an attempted boycott and because of the possible violence. In a country with constant censorship of the press, over 2000 political prisoners, forced labour for many thousands and accusations of statesanctioned torture and rape, it is hard to justify calling it an ethical holiday destination. It has also been claimed that since the governments push for the development of a tourist industry forced labour programmes have been used to develop the destinations, and tourism brings the government a considerable part of their GDP. So this is the ethical issue… the prospect of an increase in tourism does have many positives; from people visiting and give their economy a boost and the chance to see the world outside the heavily censored bubble the government has con-

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On March 30th 2011 more than four decades of military rule in Burma came to an end. The ironically named State Peace and Development Council, the military regime that has ruled Burma since 1962, was dissolved and many believed that the political embroilment that had been raging since it gained ing the gap is a ‘civilian government’, the next step towards establishing a desperately needed democratic system. Though it is hard to see what has changed: the inauguration ceremony was completed behind closed doors and it was only announced after the process had taken place, in keeping with the secretive military ethos. In spite of this, travellers have become increasingly attracted to Burma and it is arguably one of the must see places on your travel list. Once described by poet Rudyard Kipling as ‘unlike any land you know’, it certainly has its own unique

tactic with regards to consumerism, but with recalm way of life and appreciation of the simplest things, to the preserved natural beauty and the many layers of history imbibed in the country as a whole, Burma is certainly a place that begs to be discovered. But given the considerable infringements on its citizens’ basic human rights, UN governments

between boycotting and ignoring a crisis. Hopefully any foreign visitors will let both the Burmese government and citizens know that they have not been overlooked. Alex Ulyet

Travel

Cardiff and B e o d y n Where: Roath

Park

Just minutes from the crowded hustle and bustle of studentsville lies a haven of calm. Roath Park is Cardiff ’s hidden treasure; boasting a spectacular lake, beautiful gardens a and play park for those still with energy to burn, Roath is guaranteed to leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. The pedalos and rowing boats are

arguably the most picturesque way to enjoy Roath’s charms as well as being the most entertaining. For those who prefer to keep their feet on dry ground try a leisurely stroll (ice-cream in hand) or gentle jog around the lake to absorb the stunning views or perhaps a picnic among the roses for any budding romances.

When: Sunset

How to get there: Head along Woodville Road and turn left onto Crwys Road. At the top (after The Pot) turn right and walk alongside the cemetery until you reach a round about. Go across the

Where: Llandaff

roundabout and through the gate after the bridge. Voila! Clare Baranowski

Tea Rooms

Quaint Llandaff draws many tea-loving and cake-gorging students. Once you leave the highstreet, the edges of this sleepy town hover over a beautiful cathedral and the Taf Trail is only minutes away. All the local coffee shops are easy

cline in a cubby hole and watch the world go by. A great way to catch up with friends or arranged a civilised meeting.

How to get there: From Talybont, or anywhere near Bute Park, follow the scenic route along the Taff

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Llandaff Catherdral. For a faster but noisier route, cross Bute park and Llandaff Fields until you reach a path that will walk you alongside Cardiff Road and into Llandaff Cemetary. Walk the steep steps up from the Catherdral and you’re there! Ready and willing to gorge yourself in a frenzy. When: Sunny weekends and hung over afternoons. Clare Baranowski

Travel

Explore Cardiff & the surrounding area with our student tips Where:

Brecon

Beacons

Water

A National Park hosting an abundance of natural treasures, Brecon Beacons is an idyllic Welsh spot for adventure seeking students who crave a breather from hectic uni life. Our highlight is the Waterfalls Walk, and your journey should begin in the village of Pontneddfechan; a perfect centre point for access to either 2.5 or 4 mile guided

falls

walks through plunging falls and looming caves. The village centre houses an educational exhibition on the waterfalls through history, but if you want to avoid the touristy element and go it alone, take practical shoes and double check online as to which trails are open.

When: Anytime of the year! The scenery is spectacular despite weather conditions. The Waterfalls Centre in Pontneddfechan is open between the hours

of 9.30am-1pm and 1.30pm-3pm at weekends.

How to get there: By car it can take up to one and a half hours de(A470, M4, A4061). For those of you without one, a train journey from Cardiff Central to Merthyr £4.90. There’s a train every half an hour on week days. Once at Merthyr there are many connecting buses into Brecon. Lia Martin

Where: Rhossili Voted the nicest beach in the UK in June 2010 and the best place to watch the sunset in Britain, it seems a shame not to take advantage of Rhossili Bay’s short distance from Cardiff. Amble leisurely along this vast, sandy expanse or indulge

waves. For stunning panoramic views of the entire bay, perch on top of the Rhossili Downs, but take great care, as it’s a steep walk up. Described as ‘magical’ by the Telegraph, ensure that you go and see it for yourself before the end of term.

When:

How to get there: By car, you follow the M4 and the B4271 and it takes approximately an hour and twenty minutes. If you are travelling by train, the easiest route is from Cardiff Central to Swansea (very frequent and costs approx. £7). To connect to the Gower

and Rhossili you have to go by bus. You can catch a First Cymru local bus (between the Train Station and Quadrant Bus Station). Lia Martin

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Beaches don’t have to be enjoyed in the summer. Head there this autumn/winter for a stroll and a cuppa.

Food & Drink

As SWN festival's arrival looms imminently over Cardiff, Food and Drink writers sample the food festivals taking place in the city and its surrounding areas...

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On a sunny day in mid-September, I woke up with a feeling of great anticipation and excitement. Why, you might ask? Well friends, today was the day that I would be surrounded by what I love most in the world. Cheese. Yes, that’s right, a whole day dedicated to the curdled- milk wonder. The Great British Cheese Festival is an annual event that takes place in the gorgeous grounds of Cardiff Castle and if you are a foodie like me, it cannot be missed. On this weekend hundreds of food lovers gather to eat, drink and make merry. With live music, games on the lawn, a Cardiff Arms tent for the thirsty ones and a ‘Best of British’ food market, there really was plenty for even the non-cheese lover to enjoy! But, being as I am partial to a spot of stilton and cheddar here and there, for me it was straight to the main event. At the back of the venue sat Britain’s biggest cheese market with over 15 exhibitors all supplying endless tasters of their fantastic products. Armed with bread and grapes to cleanse my pallet, and an energetic elbow to push through the crowds, I was in my element. Having lost my cheese festival virginity in 2010, I felt quite the pro and many onlookers expressed their need for a cracker or two to accompany the vast amount of cheese on offer. If you go next year, go as one of the experts and for god’s sake don’t forget your baguette! For the real cheese connoisseurs there were master classes available and for those looking for a laugh, the ‘Cheese Tossing Championships’ were the place to be. What could be more fun than throwing a great wheel of cheese around as spectators clap and cheer? Exactly. So anyway, the verdict you have all been waiting for. The favourite cheese of the day. First price HAS to go to ‘Red Devil’. Consisting of Red Leicester, Chillies & crushed pepper it sent my taste buds into a frenzy and needless to say I stocked up on it. Created by the Snowdonia Cheese Co Ltd it can be enjoyed simply with a cracker and a bit of chutney or grated over pasta to give it extra ‘oomph’. And if you lovely readers wish to give it a go, then I happen to know that it is stocked in Madame Fromage in Castle Arcade. Worst thing about the day? As I left, a man started throwing cheese at me. Wasn’t very mature now was it... Tors White

[Cheese Festival]

Food & Drink

A Feast of Festivals gavenny food festival and the event is barely recognisable. From its humble beginnings of thirty local food and drinks producers gathered in a rather chilly Market Hall, each year the festival has attracted both more visitors and stalls from further

festival’s ethos has remained unchanged and is what I believe to be the key to making this the best food festival going. The three principles at the forefront of the organiser’s agenda are to celebrate craft in food-making, the diversity of foods and traditions, both in Wales and elsewhere, and to celebrate the conviviality and sociability that surrounds eating and drinking. And they certainly do it in style! It was just a short picturesque stroll through the normally sleepy town from the train station to the centre of town, where most of the festival locations were to be found, but being surrounded by like-minded food enthusiasts, there was an almost tangible atmosphere of anticipation building. And for good reason, it was estimated that over the weekend there 34,000 visitors descended on the town to sample the array of delights on offer. Not only were there in excesses of two hundred stalls trading their veritable delights, but the weekend’s agenda also boasted a series of talks and master classes with the food world’s artisan elite. Celebrities, such as Valentine Warner of BBC ‘What to eat now’ fame, and world class chefs alike shared their expertise with captivated audiences. Forays into the surrounding countryside were run throughout the weekend. Enthusiasts were lead by experts to discover what our surroundings

sourcing his products locally and ethically is so important to him, a philosophy which is central to I daresay all of the stall at the festival. With there being almost too much to see, taste, and get involved with at this brilliant festival I certainly will not be missing out on what’s on offer next year. And if your appetite has been whetted and the thought of waiting another year to experience the delights of Abergavenny’s food scene, fear not, the Christmas food fair is just around the corner!

Abergavenny Food Festival 2012 is taking place on the weekend of the 15th and 16th September and the Christmas food and drinks fair will be on the 11th December 2011

[Abergavenny Food Festival]

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Chloe Slade get about and about and discover wild food is a really unique aspect of Abergavenny’s festival. Tutored tastings were also on offer, giving visitors a change to hone their pallets under the guidance of specialists. The guy’s from Neal’s Yard creamery and Trethowan’s diary sampled outstanding modern cheeses, while Otley microbrewery guided guests though a tour of both their regular and seasonal ales. The wine connoisseurs who decide the wine lists for Gordon Ramsey’s Savoy Grill talked lucky tasters though choosing wines for different occasions and Mark Demarquette, the renowned chocolatier sampled some of his decadent and delicious delights while explaining why

dropped through my letterbox like a dinner invitation from an old friend. This was a feeling which extended to the moment I entered the door, hung my jacket on the coat stand and was greeted with a warm and welcoming smile from one of the waitresses that evening, who offered me a seat and asked me what I’d like to drink, until the end of the night when I waved my goodbyes and strolled home, wiping

lentil lasagne with creamy béchamel sauce, layered between fresh spinach, porcini mushrooms and spinach pasta sheets laid down in front of us, sidled with a green leaf salad with herby dressing and hemp seeds. It was only when our mouths watered when one of the quad offered another round of delicious cocktantalise our taste buds with this last savoury And so, the evening came to a very warming

tummy. Indeed, the supper club is without a doubt one of the nicest, nay “homeliest”, dining experiences I’ve had in my three years in Cardiff. The evening started out with my dinner date and I drinking cocktails over a cloth covered table, dotted with tea lights and oddball tin can vases; A table cosied on the end of a long line of other benches, occupied with diners, also eager to taste Milgi’s ‘Supper-Club’ Harvest meal which was so imminently to pass through our lips. light pancake topped with fresh fennel, cherry tomatoes, olives, an agreeably oily dressing and a single basil leaf. The next, tagliatelle, but not as I knew it. An ornate plate, garnished with strips of courgette and dressed with a minty vinaigrette was placed in front of me, which I happily devoured. By the third course I was expecting some sort of dessert, but to my surprise, but with no disappointment, a third

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with a rich tomato sauce. By the time the main dish came, my dinner date and I were so engrossed in conversation with the dining quad next to us, we didn’t notice the sharing size

with a delightfully, sickly-sweet caramel gelato, and of course, another cocktail... Needless to say, it was a meal with an uncanny resemblance to a dinner cooked by friends. But, perhaps, with better food (that is to say if your friends aren’t heinously good chefs) and the guilt-free knowledge that you can leave without doing the washing up. Simone Miche

'Supper-Club' is held on a monthly basis at Milgi's on City Rd. Dinner is a different theme each time and is priced at £15 a head, which is undeniably worth it for the top-notch grub you get, and starts at around 8.30pm. To avoid disappointment, and to enjoy a drink before dinner starts, I advise you get there for 8pm. Check out http://www.milgilounge.com/diary/supperclub.com for more info on Supper-Club and its next event.

Food & Drink

all tastes. Main meals include award winning Welsh bangers and mash, homemade pie of the day and homemade chicken tikka, while lighter options include homemade soup of the week, pitta sandwiches! As well as serving food all day the Taf now re opens at 1am to cater for all those intoxicated students stumbling out of the union after a night on the tiles. Rather than traipsing to the nearest kebab shop or attempting to cook food in the early hours why not pop across the corridor to the Taf where the staff are on hand to serve you all the food and soft drinks you need to make that following morning a little less horrendous! Cerys Williams The Taf now boast a whole host of 3D TV’s showing major sporting events.

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Centrally located at the student union, the Taf is a great place to socialize and catch up with friends. With a welcoming pub feel it’s a perfect place to relax, whether its out on the terrace in the sun or cosied up inside. It’s laid back atmosphere and friendly staff mean it’s an ideal place to grab a bite to eat, and with a menu that boasts different offers everyday of the week there’s always a bargain to be had. “Wash away your Monday blues” from 5pm with ‘Happy Mondays’ and food and drink from £1.49. On Tuesdays it’s ‘Bogof Burgers’ with pints for £1.49 all evening. Wednesdays sees ‘Club House’ in the Taf, from 5pm they offer 2 sporty cocktails for £5, and Sports Teams eat for free. From 8pm on Thursdays the Taf hosts ‘Never mind the pub quiz’. Entry is £1 per player and the perfect accompaniment of Pizza and pitcher/ (pino) are a bargain at £8.50. From 5pm on Fridays Its ‘Drop the bomb’ with discounted bombs, cocktails, pitchers and shots to start your weekend with a bang. On Saturdays its ‘4 Play’ from 5pm, offering a limited number of free come play tickets when you buy a drink. To help ease that Sunday hangover head to ‘I love Sunday roast’ from 12pm to 6pm, and if you buy two courses you get one free. The Taf ’s menu boasts a variety of dishes to suit all appetites, be it big or small. With the option of breakfasts, light bites and sharers, melts, burgers, build your own pizza, jackets and wedges and main meals there is sure to be something to suit

What's your agenda? Your guide to everything cultural in Cardiff this fortnight. Circus Skills

13th

Bare Bones The Decade

The Dance Studio at The Riverfront Arts Centre, Newport Every Tuesday til 13th December.

Weston Studio, Wales Millenium Centre

Why? To learn juggling, stilt walking, unicycling, diabolos, ribbon, devil sticks and tight rope. And that's just the warm

Why? For up close and personal contemporary dance. Very personal if you go on the above press shot...

Fri 14 Oct 11

14th

up...

Journey's End

SWN @ Chapter Chapter Arts Centre 22nd October

New Theatre Tue 18 - Sat 22 Oct

18th

Why? To see David Sheriff's multi award winning production. Will work wonders after any bad A Level experiences.

Strictly Gershwin

22nd

Drunken Technique

Donald Gordon Theatre, Wales Millenium Centre Tue 25 Oct - Sat 29 Oct 11

25th 26

Why? For old Hollywood glamour.

Why? For a chance to explore one of Cardiff's best loved arts venues as part of a festival celebrating all things wonderful things local.

29th

The Gate Tuesdays til 29 Nov Why? It's esdays 5.00-6.00pma new dance technique that explores a fusion of Contemporary, Release, Flying Low and Performance techniques with Zui Quan (a martial arts form, also known as Drunken Boxing).

Arts

Made in Roath

Kirsty Allen

arts@gairrhydd.com

When Cardiff calls tourists over the border, Roath isn’t the place people usually associate with hometown glory. Red dragons and rugby balls are tattooed on the public conscious of the Welsh capital leaving the rest of the city behind closed doors. Shamefully the eclectic arts scene remains hidden behind the tourist board stereotypes. Considering the patchwork of neighbourhoods that make up Cardiff, from the roar of Tiger Bay to the rooftops of Cathays, this hardly seems fair. That’s why the people at Made in Roath have decided to literally open their doors to their community... The Open House exhibition, which sees artist’s welcome festival goers into their own homes to view their exhibitions, is just one tiny piece of a home grown festival showcasing organic artsy produce. The festival showcases the cream of the Cardiff crop through exhibitions, workshops and performances. Oh, and it just so happens that these performances are down the road from Milgi’s or on the way home from the Co Op. It really is that easy to enjoy the local arts and culture scene in Cardiff because it is, quite literally, on your doorstep and in your favourite venues. Roath and Cathays both offer an alternative nightlife to Mill Lane but behind the cocktails, fairy lights and open mic nights there is most probably a scene you didn’t know existed. Made in Roath throws the doors wide open on local creative talent.. Made in Roath Festival will be held on the weekend of Friday 14th October to Sunday 16th October in venues across Roath and surrounding areas. Keep an eye on www.madeinroath.com for details of all the events but make sure you don’t miss these... Open House Open Studio The Fashion Show Roathbud

Ar ts

The

Cardiff

Arts

Ballet Cymru. Experience classic ballet in an original contemporary way. One of their projects Urban Sprawl challenges the conventions of the Urban environment by taking ballet to the streets. The project combines the performing side with documentation, live projections, audio and photographic capture techniques. Chapter. Cinema, theatre and gallery: all at once. The Arts Centre offers an unpredictable clash of current up-to-dates to the more obscure, one-offs. Situated within the Canton area.

David’s Hall. For exploring affordable artistic exhibitions, the unique experience of an orchestral concert or even to sample the comedy from some of the funniest people in Britain, St Davids Hall is one to watch. Experimental Applied Theatre Society. The Society has been set up by students wanting to explore and get creative with progressive forms of performance arts. You performances will be debuted at the Gate as part of the Made in Roath arts festival. Ffotogallery. The National development agency for photography and lens media in Wales. Their Current Exhibition is available for viewing until 1st October. And for those who wish to experiment in the art of photography, the centre also offers beginners classes. Gate. The Arts and Community Centre within Roath area. It offers a programme of dancing, music, theatre, singing, visual arts and writing for both amateurs and professionals.

Hijinx. Combining drama, music and visual imagery Hijinx offers a range of vivid productions. The company tour a play for the learning disabled and also creates a play for the general public in community venues and small arts centres.

Institute. For arts, performance, music and festival fun. Check it out, it’s always open to discover a little more of the arts world within Cardiff.

Jewellery-making. Inkspot is an Arts and Crafts studio located on Newport Road. Just what’s needed for an inspirational, creative nudge.

is one of the leading artists of Tactile BOSCH art gallery and studios. The studios have developed into one of the main players of the Welsh Arts scene for its unconventional, alternate adaptation of art. Life Drawing. Sample this at Cardiff Arts Institute. Every Tuesday from 7pm to 8.30pm they will play host to Life model Sketching sessions. Check their website for more information. Milgi Lounge explores new realms of art and music away from conventionality and traditions. And as it is the Queen of City Road’s bee-hive of world food restaurants, food-lovers will be happy to experience eating out with a little bit of artsy style

National Dance Company. An iconic symbol within the dance community, being one of Europe’s leading dance companies with an extensive UK and international touring programme. For inspirational and entertaining dance performances. Wales National Opera is a world class opera company. The company is passionate about Opera and shares their music in exhilarating style.

Project-ten. This pop-up commercial gallery exhibits contemporary art and design in art and design in temporary locations. So, for a chance to witness emerging Welsh artists and designers don’t miss this exhibiton.

Question time. This month Cardiff National Museum of Art hosts a series of art lectures run by acclaimed international academics so get your questios ready.

Roath. A place which will be constantly cropping up on the arts scene. With so much

Sherman. Contemporary theatre. For young people, emerging artists and diverse communities. It’s awaiting re-development, so for now it’s that scrappy building site next to the Student Union but the company anticipate a return around the start of 2012. Touch Trust. Music, Dance, Movement and Touch for people affected by autism and multiple disabilities. The company stages days of dance performances and Weekend and Holiday Workshops. Union. There are so many Student union societies to get involved in the arts scene. Act one is the biggest drama society and they have seven major performances this year to watch out for or get involved in.

Vintage at Goodwood. The Vintage fair which is brought to the streets of Cardiff once a year. Look out for it October 15th. Artisan stalls will be offering unique treasures, all with a vintage twist as well as jewellery, accessories and fashion.

Wales Millennium Centre. The ultimate arts centre for musicals, opera, ballet, dance, as well as cafes and arts organisations.

Yellow. An unusual piece of public art surrounding the Cardiff Bay barrage set to bemuse witnesses. The artist used photography, projection and painting to plan the piece. And yes, it’s all yellow.

Zumba! you can try it or continue, as classes are available at the Gate. By Asha Verma

arts@gairrhydd.com

Xpress Radio . Your brilliant student radio station isn"t just about music. The station also produces speech and drama including student written plays performed by student actors. Showcasing the best creative talent that Cardiff has to offer. Get involved.

LGBT+

YOUR EXCLUSIVE GUIDE TO :

The international gay and lesbian short film Prize What do Toronto, Los Angeles, New York, Sydney, Dublin, London, San Francisco, Philadelphia, Miami, Montreal and Hong Kong all have in common?

lgbt@gairrhydd.com

Hector Roddan

LGBT+

A Taste of IRIS Kate Boddington takes a look at just some of the screenings on offer at IRIS 2011!

' -

lgbt@gairrhydd.com

LGBT+ News For the first time ever, Quench brings you the latest national and international LGBT+ news! Gender Neutral Passports Consultation

A Bloody Cheek?

"Is My Son Gay?" App Sparks Controversy

lgbt@gairrhydd.com

? !

Books

Cardiff Read

Our Capital has long nestled under the radar when it comes to literary connections. Despite its status as Wales’ premier city in most senses, it lags behind when it comes to books; living perennially in the shadow of nearby Swansea which has, being the birthplace of Dylan Thomas and Martin Amis, always shouted much louder about its cultural heritage and Hay-on-Wye, home to the UK’s most famous literary festival. But modest Cardiff has more than enough to meet even the most diehard of bibliophile’s needs. Alice Hughes takes a look at a few of Cardiff's gems… Troutmark Books 39-43 Castle Arcade

A visit to Troutmark Books is always an aesthetically pleasing one. Floor-to-ceiling bookcases and an attractive arcade location make this the prettiest bookshop in Cardiff, the Hollywood set designer’s version of what an independent bookshop should look like. Stocking a wide range of second-hand approachable and knowledgeable. Conveniently located a few doors down from the sublime Madame

Capital Bookshop 27 Morgan Arcade Capital Bookshop is a great alternative. Specialising in second-hand books, it also houses a large number of rare antiquarian titles and is the archetypal chaotic booklover’s paradise with that wonderfully reassuring old books smell. Yes, some of the spines are falling off and yes, you might get told off if you touch any of the more expensive books, but it’s all part of the charm and exactly what makes it such an enchanting place to visit. Capital Bookshop is the antithesis of shopping on Amazon – the kind of place you go because you have absolutely no idea what you want to buy or whether you want to buy anything at all. Good books and good coffee go together so well; Capital is located opposite the lovely Plan, decreed one of the top 50 cafés in Britain by the Guardian.

The Wellfield Bookshop

books@gairrhydd.com

We move away from the city centre and into the student heartland of Roath for this next fi Bookshop is great when you don’t fancy making the trek into town to go to Waterstone’s. Although naturally less well-stocked than its high street competitor, the helpful owners fi wide range of books relative to its small size, representing about every genre going, from fi fi fi

Books Books

Our pick of the best books Cardiff has to offer... a 40-year-old woman and her friend’s teenage son The Master Bedroom is stylistically impressive if a little depressing, but with the story set mainly

Blue Sky July a beautifully written account of Cardiff-based author Nia Wyn’s relationship with her son and his struggle with cerebral palsy…Nikita Lalwani’s Booker-longlisted Gifted is the tale of a maths prodigy growing up in Cardiff and a fable on the dangers of well-meaning but pushy parents. Proder age of 15 heralds the beginning of a rebellion against her precocious talent…Not quite Cardiff, els depict a South Wales familiar to us all in her contemporary novels which have been translated into several languages; try Sixteen Shades of Crazy and Dial M for Merthyr…John Williams’s literary crime novels (collated in The Cardiff Trilogy) show the seedier side of the city and document its emergence as a modern European capital…and Tales of

Let us know all about your favourite Cardiff books and literary hangouts on twitter, follow us @QuenchBooks

books@gairrhydd.com

the Unexpected are wonderfully twisted.

MUSIC SWN is upon us... You may have heard mutterings of 'Swn Festival' and had no idea what anyone was on about. Well fear not I am here to tell you. 'Swn'- meaning sound in Welsh- is a music festival set in various venues around Cardiff. Established by Radio 1 DJ Huw Stephens and local year. Set over four days, you can see over 100 live music acts. Past performers include The Cribs, Beirut, Wild Beasts and Marina & The Diamonds, plus many more talented artists. This year the festival is set to be bigger and better than ever, bringing in artists from The Joy Formidable, to Ben Howard (see across the page for more information). Swn is a perfect example of Cardiff's vibrant and ever-growing music scene so if you love music make sure you get your ticket soon! Swn is on 20th- 23rd October. Weekend Tickets are ÂŁ49.50 Emma Wilford

LOCAL BAND OF THE WEEK Giving you an insight to the talent in and around Cardiff...

music@gairrhydd.com

JOSPEH & DAVID Joseph Lawrenson and David Henshaw came together with an selection of friends to create a truly unique sound. Featuring a myriad of intruments, from a voilin to an accordian, they fuse folk with raw acoustic music to create a delicate, yet poignent, sound. Playing at SWN festival on the Saturday make sure you go and watch them. For fans of: Bon Iver, Damien Rice, Sigur Ros Find more about them at: www.myspace.com/josephanddavidmusic

Music

A round up of our must-see acts over the weekend

THURSDAY Fixers experimental psychadelic-pop. Described as an 'avant-guard take on the Beach Boys,' they take surf music to a whole new level. Who else to watch: Martyn CRST Yaaks

FRIDAY The Joy Formidable This North Wales trio have had a fantastic year with the release of their debut album The Big Roar receiving critical acclaim. They opened the Main Stage at this year's Reading & Leeds Festival, cementing their status as one of the hottest new bands around. With their massive sound of swelling riffs coupled with Ritzy Bryan's unique vocals this is an act not to be missed. Who else to watch: Niki & the Dove Clock opera

SATURDAY The Fall

Who else to watch: Benjamin Francis Leftwich Esben & the Witch Ivan Moult Summer Camp

For the full line-up head to www.swnfest.com

SUNDAY Cuba Cuba It's a testament to their varied mash-up of angular, indie pop and synth-laden raucousness that Cuba Cubaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sound has been celebrated by avenues as diverse as Kerrang! magazine and Huw Stephens' Radio 1 show. Who else to watch: Sweet Baboo Among Brothers Ben Howard

music@gairrhydd.com

Post-punk band The Fall may have been playing for 30 years but they are sure to play an unforgettable gig. The Manchester band have been through countless line-up changes and reinventions and are deemed as 'Living Legends'. It would be foolish to not go and see them.

Music

Summer 2011: The Review October may be here, but with the recent heatwave and the excitement of SWN fest, it feels as though summer never really left. Indulge us as we relive some of our fondest memories of this year's festival season.

big chill Five minutes with...

Crystal Fighters

Phil Kenny talks to Sebastian Pringle + Gilbert Vierich You're renowned for having a very unique style of music, like a folky-electronica with this direction? [SP] All sorts really, especially dance music. It spans such a wide variety of styles and techniques, and learning about them and how to sort of create them was a lot of what made up our sound. You know, experimenting with different genres on tracks and trying to mix them in a way that wasn’t corny with folk songs and intergrated the vast in-

Have people tried to copy these techniques? [GV] I don’t think so [SP] To be honest my awareness of the local London scene has fallen down the drain. People tell me there’s a few people that do, but I’m not sure who. [GV] One band said they tried to rip 'Xtatic Truth ' off but it sounds nothing like it and I prefer their's! (laughs)

music@gairrhydd.com

Well you guys are doing a lot of festivals this year, ending in Park Life in Australia. [SP] Yeah we're looking forward to that; we're there for 10 days and have four dates, we think…? And you guys just played the underage festival, how did that compare? [GV] It was a lot of fun, actually. Those kids go absolutely mental; it's really unexepected!

So any plans to release any new singles? [GV] Yeah, we still have one more. 'Plage' is just out and then 'Champion Sound' is going out in Europe and then England as well. Basically, our album came out a little bit later in Europe and so they have their own schedule. Any plans of a new album in the works? [GV] Yes! Big plans. [SP] We're writing it at the moment, sort of conventionalising it and we're really excited about doing it. We still enjoy playing the songs we have, but there’s a sort of yearning for a different sort of sound, a different sort of direction. So there’ll be a new direction for the next album? [SP] Yeah, hopefully it will be surprising in the knows, it could be exactly the same with different art work (laughs).

Music

Green man Nestled amongst the spectacular Brecon Beacons, there was something beautifully relaxed and efsee why this was one of the few festicals this year to sell out. With a line-up set over three days, I returned feeling full to the brim with incredible music. Bellowhead provided the most exhilarating set of the weekend. They got the whole crowd dancing and forced them to marvel at the massive array of musical instruments they could all play. to behold. It was a captivating set demonstrating their ability to muster such emotion from their instrumental sounds. The wonderful James Vincent McMorrow did an acoustic set in the Far Out Tent, in which the audience were in awe by his faultless voice. Lia Ices was also an act that stood out for me with her Lykke Li/Kate Bush-esque sound. The main stage on Saturday was rammed with amazing bands, from The Leisure Society to Dry the River, as well as the Avett Brothers. Noah and the Whale provided a fun set before the highly anticipated Fleet Foxes, playing many songs from their latest album as well as electric versions of past hits such as Blue Skies and Five Year's Time. Then came the act so many people were waiting for - Fleet Foxes. I have to admit I was trembling with excitement as they came on and opened with 'The Cascades'. Although they suffered from early sound issues, they went on to play a magical set. 'Mykonos' to 'Your Protector', as well as new songs from the album. Sunday saw the highly praised James Blake

playing his intense take on electronic music and then the lovely Laura Marling took to the stage. Although she didn't play many of her 'classics', such as 'Ghosts', she gave the audience a taste of her new album by playing many of the songs off it. As she played her songs to one of the largest remember that she is only 21. On the Sunday night as the Green Man, apparently named 'Bran', was set alight I felt the pang of sadness that the weekend was ending. From the impromptu sets from bands as you walk around the festival, to exploring the stalls in Einstein's Garden, or dancing until late at the Chai Wallah, this festival certainly holds a magic I have only ever seen at Glastonbury. Thank you Green Man, I shall see you next year! Emma Wilford

The last 'big' festival of the summer, Bestival shows that they really do leave the best 'til last. Voted 'Best Major Festival of 2010', beating Glastonbury in a public vote, Bestival has gone from strength to strength since its debut eight summers ago. The main strength of the festival has to be the fancy dress theme, stripping people of their inhibitions from the get go by getting them to dress up in crazy costumes; it really creates a party atmosphere that lasts the entire weekend. This year's theme was rock stars, pop stars and divas, which provided plenty of opportunity for some hugely imaginative costumes. Highlights included a 20ft cardboard/tinfoil robot with several Beastie Boys dancing around it (Intergalactic

as the Spice Girls - Sporty looked spot on. This year's Bestival was one for classics, with Primal Scream, Public Enemey, The Village People (?!) and The Cure all making their return to the main stage, followed by an array of the biggest DJs (Fat Boy Slim, DJ Shadow, Boys Noize) spinning the decks till 4am. Santogold really set the standard with an amazing Thursday night headline slot matched only by Tom Vek and Fat Boy Slimâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s late night shows. The Cure were amazing, as expected, but a 2 Â˝ hour set dragged out what would have been an unbelievable hour long set. All in all an amazing weekend. Phil Kenny

music@gairrhydd.com

Bestival

Music

End of the Road

As an End Of The Road virgin I was definitely in the minority. Most people I spoke to had been to the festival year after year, and I can see why: gorgeous green surroundings, friendly helpful staff, and a line-up to die for. Having pitched up our tent on the Thursday afternoon, we thought we’d check out some of the “secret gigs” in the Tipi Tent. Cosy and intimate, this adorable venue played host to the smallest of four stages, where tonight Jose Gonzalez’s band Junip made a surprise appearance. Need I say more? And things only got better on the Friday. Best Coast’s feisty beach-pop made a brilliant soundtrack to the afternoon sunshine at the Woods stage, which was later transformed into a magical scene of dry ice and strobe lighting to accommodate swirling Swedish goddess Lykke Li. Headline act Beirut performed a captivating set with just the right balance of new album material and old favourites, though Zach Condon may have milked the encore a little too much. In the daytime there was never a dull moment: we made origami cranes, played Ringo music bingo, saw some comedy, played with clay… there were countless workshops and activities taking place. Musical highlights of the Saturday included a very sweet set by Allo Darlin’, and the maginificent Other Lives, a real treat for folk fans. Wild

Five minutes with...

Jo Southerd

Sarabeth Tucek

music@gairrhydd.com

Tell me about the time you supported Bob Dylan on tour, that must have been brilliant. Oh yeah, that was years ago. It was really great; he’s a nice man. I got to speak to him after and it was very unreal, but amazing. It’s sort of all downhill from there (laughs), well once you’ve opened for Bob Dylan, anyone else they mention to open for is like…. (shrugs). Well nobody’s as great as him. He’s the top of the heap. What kind of music do you like to listen to? I listen to a lot of older music, anything from Neil Young to Echo and the Bunnymen. I don’t listen to a lot of folk music, I guess. There’s a lot of proper rock acts here I’d be more interested in, but it’s such a nice festival. Really pretty.

Beasts were beautiful as the sun began to set, but unfortunately our stewarding shift took us away from headline act Mogwai, over to Garden Stage closers Okkervil River, who were a pleasure to listen to. The weekend ended on a high, with the likes of Emmy The Great, Willy Mason and The Leisure Society gracing our Sunday. Laura Marling was simply outstanding, delivering a pitch perfect performance and retaining her sense of humour despite one awkward moment with a broken guitar. Effortlessly beautiful, she performed current single 'Sophia' and a medley of two new tracks, but definitely got the best reaction from the likes of 'Ghosts' and 'Alas I Cannot Swim'. The heavens opened, but it was worth braving the rain for Midlake and Joanna Newsom, both of whom were incredible. Clutching onto a pint of hot spiced cider, I didn’t want the night to end. I had heard only wonderful things about End of the Road, and my first experience was far from disappointing.

Is there anyone you’re looking forward to seeing while you’re here? Unfortunately I have to leave really soon but I may run and see Bo Ningen. I wanted to see The Fall and Kurt Vile, but I won’t get to see anybody really. For the next three weeks we’ll be on the road every day, we’re really really busy. What are you looking forward to most about getting back to the US? Not much, really! My dog, that’s about it. I prefer to be on the road. We’re sort of inbetween places where we’re living, between New York and LA so I’d rather not have to deal with it! But I do miss my dog. Jo Southerd

Read the whole interview at quenchmusiccardiff.blogspot.com

Music

You were in Paris last night? We were in Paris last night! How did that go? and we had a really nice crowd, a great response. The food and everything is so great there. The new album’s been out since May in the States, but over here it was released just last week. How’s the new stuff been going down with fans? That’s the crazy thing, we didn’t expect anything over here! But people know the record and we’ve met some really kind, genuine people and fans, so we’re very happy. Have you played many festivals this summer? We’ve done Green Man, Lowlands, one in Leicester. Green Man was really good, so beautiful. And everybody told us like “oh bring your wellies because this place rains every day,” but it was actually a sunny, beautiful day!

Yeah, we’ve been here for about a month now and I feel like it’s gonna be our second home. It sounds like we’re over here for a couple of months, and should be here for six months next year. Are you looking forward to playing later? Yeah, very excited, and it’s inside, which is good for me. I prefer playing indoors to these big outside things. I love it inside, I just think it suits our sound better. How would you describe your sound? What we try to do is take folk music and try to compose, bringing those two worlds together. So maybe you could say compositional folk. That sounds really hoity toity, doesn’t it?!(laughs)

Jo Southerd chats to frontman Jesse Tabish ences? I would say Ennio Morricone, Philip Glass, Steve Reich [composers/musicians]. But you know, from the time I grew up there was everything from The Beatles, Neil Young, Pink Floyd, all that. So, if you could do a duet with any artist, who would it be? Well, erm… (pause). Do you play anything? Me? I play a little bit of ukulele. There we go, I think that would be a nice duet wouldn’t it, me and you? Nice little side project. Cheeky! So, is there anyone you’re looking forward to seeing while you’re here? Yeah I think we’re gonna hang out all night, which be great to just relax and see some bands. I think we wanna go and see Mogwai later. You’re touring with Bon Iver soon. Yeah, this autumn we go on tour with Bon Iver on the West coast, and then with Mates of State on excited to play with Bon Iver; I think they're gonna be some of the biggest shows we’ve ever played. So, do you think you’ve come a long way since [original band] Kunek? I think so, I mean every record has progressed and changed. This is a record we’ve been wanting to do for a long time, and we were able to do it because we self recorded it and self produced it, so we’re really proud of it. I feel very happy about it, very happy to be over here and support it.

music@gairrhydd.com

other lives

Music

BLINK 182 ARE BACK Matt Ayres takes a listen to their new album Neighborhoods.

7/10

Top Tracks: *Ghost On The Dance Floor *Natives *After Midnight

It’s been eight year wait for new material from Blink-182. Eight years, in which the band's loyal fanbase have endured a dramatic break up, a seemingly endless slew of rumours, new bands, collaborations, reality TV shows, podcasts, video announcement of reformation that ex-teen poppunkers everywhere had dreamed of. That was in

music@gairrhydd.com

nally have a new album, and it had better be worth the wait. Neighborhoods, whilst arguably nothing new, starkly avoids being labelled a collection of recycled riffs and rhythms. Instead, it's a collaboration of sounds that have become synonymous with each band member, cultivated in the void between 2003's self-titled album and now. Take the stuttering, delayed guitar rhythms in the vein of singer/ guitarist Tom Delonge's vanity project Angels & Airwaves, or the deepsea phaser sounds borrowed from singer/bassist Mark Hoppus's well-known obsession with The Cure. Couple these components with Travis Barker's trademark drumming style (a surprising fusion of two elementary west coast genres - hardcore punk and hip-hop) and you have an album that's an exploration of worldly musical tastes from three experienced songwriters and friends, experimenting with one another after nearly a decade of time off. With such lofty ambitions to combine their

admittedly feel a tad more disjointed than before. Each track seems to serve the interests of a particular band member: Ghost On The Dance Floor is the property of Delonge, its opening riff a disciple to U2’s Where The Streets Have No Name; Mark Hoppus showcases metaphor-laden lyrics similar to those found on +44’s debut When Your Heart Stops Beating in songs like Heart’s All Gone and MH 4.18.2011. There are notable exceptions, though, and the album is ultimately saved by a select few standout tracks. Natives is classic racing pop punk reminiscent of 1997’s Dude Ranch, resurrected with mature lyrics and up-to-date production values, whilst singles Up All Night and After Midnight pick up where the band left off, marrying pounding melodic bass and drums with refrained, ambient guitar. Vocal trade-offs between Hoppus and Delonge are also an album highlight, reminding everyone what a classic team of singers the world was missing during their time apart. Whilst occasionally feeling like the stomping ground of three competitive rock stars, Neighborhoods is both progressive and catchy enough to be remembered as a strong comeback effort. Far from the tried-and-tested, pop punk injected nostalgia trip that one might have expected, then; for this, Blink-182 should be commended.

For more album reviews head to www. quenchmusiccardiff.blogspot.com

Music

press Radio.co uk Recommends...

Best new tracks Teeth Flowers Noisy UK electronic act Teeth announce themselves with this swanky little number, the second single to be released their debut album WHATEVER (out now). Teeth combine the energy and spontaneity of Crystal Castles together with the up beat sound of Friendly Fires and CCS with just a pinch of Caribou to create a great electro beat Flowers release Care Bear, but both tracks carry enough weight to suggest Teeth are the next synth pop to keep an eye on! PK

Track of the week Bombay Bicycle Club Lights Out, Words Gone The gorgeous second single from the new album A Different Kind of Fix has all the makings of a Bombay Bicycle Club classic: heartfelt vocal harmonies, drums that echo, and the welcome return of electric guitar. Flaws was wonderful, but I am glad to see the back of their unplugged, acoustic phase. This band have got their edge back; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t miss them when they play the Studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Union on October 14th. JS

Lana Del Rey Video Games In an age where YouTube can make a star over-

ra-esque voice and poignent lyrics it is no wonder mere half hour. She describes her music as 'Hollyhop is evident in her other songs, after all she does refer to herself as a ganster Nancy Sinatra. Video Games, a melancholic tale of unrequited love is a song that is set to make this 24 year-old a star. Expect to be hearing a lot more from her in the near future. EW

Solo projects are always something to be sceptical about: are we going to have cheap imitation of the original product or something completely different? But those critics fearing a poor man's Mystery Jets can rest assured as bassist Kai Fish takes a very different approach to his band mates with his brilliant new single taken from his forthcoming solo album Life In Monochrome. My Amina is a brooding track with the real emotional undercurrent of romantic yearning and deep lyrics. A million miles from Two Doors Down himself as a new songwriter and performer in his own right. PK

music@gairrhydd.com

Kai Fish My Anima

Film

FILM FILM FILM FILM FILM FILM

News

Cinemagoers have gone full circle (of life), as the re-release of The Lion King

classic

Dead

The Dark Knight Rises

Morten Wright

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Trailer Trash.

FOOTLOOSE Footloose

dace sequences, it looks like the beloved classic is

Fraser Isaac the rebellious actions he takes against the strict

Best film for... ...perfecting your kidnapping skills

A LIFE LESS ORDINARY

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Fraser Isaac

Venice -

Annie Richardson critiques this year's most anticipated cinema at the world's oldest film festival. Tinker Tailor -

gold-leaf lion statues lining the main routes to -

starring

after the screening of

A Dangerous Method A Dangerous Method, the remake of , Hunger

seen in

Hunger

An Education, Never Let Me Go) to distance herself

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, Brokeback Mountain, , Black

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FILM Reviews Jane Eyre Dir: Cary Fukunaga Cast: Mia Wasikowska, Michael Fassbender, Jamie Bell

oriside, and it is evident that this is going to be a -

ď&#x20AC;

8/10 -

Emma Wilford

The Troll Hunter

Dir: André Øvredal Cast: Otto Jespersen, Hunter

Hans Morten Hansen,

The Troll -

Tomas Alf Larsen

to being an established sub-genre in itself, albeit Morten Wright

their audiences thinking that if the main char-

10/10



house is haunted, the use of the handheld camera The Troll Hunter -

Best film for... ...showing that Wales is still relevant submarine (2010)

Morten Wright

...inspiring you to learn karate

The Karate Kid (1984) Forget the forgettable 2010 remake starring Jaden Smith and Jackie Chan: this ’80s classic is a perfect slice of retro filmmaking that never needed modernizing. We meet bolshy teen Daniel LaRusso as he moves to a modest Californian home with his mother. He romances with a cheerleader and makes enemies with her jock ex-boyfriend, and it’s all very John Hughes right up until we meet Mr. Miyagi, a peaceful but deadly Japanese handyman from Daniel’s apartment complex. Swiftly agreeing to teach him Karate in order to settle a feud with a team of bullies from a big-league dojo, Miyagi’s unconventional methods are soon revealed to be an enlightening and highly effective fighting style. They also make for some damn good watching, and you’ll no doubt be perfecting your crane style attacks by the end of the film. Wax on, wax off, reader-san. Matt Ayres



Iconography: Christian Bale

, so

Defining Role:

Batman (The Dark Knight. 2008)

as diverse as hontas and

, Poca-

The Dark Knight Rises The Dark Knight tril), Trevor Reznik in The Machinist, Alfred Borden in The Prestige

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Matt Ayres

The team editor Gavin Jewkes Features Alexi Gunner, Camilla Flint, Lucy Trevallion food Simone Miche & Chloe Slade books Alice Hughes fashion Leonie Roderick, Hann Davies, Lucy Trevallion travel Clare Baranowski & Lia Martin photos Tom Armstrong & Lucy Chip lgbt+ Hector Roddan arts Asha Verma & Kirsty Allen music Emma Wilford, Jo Southerd & Phil Kenny film Fraser Isaac, Matt Ayres, Morten Wright

Front Cover by Laura Redburn Laura Redburn, also known as Cardboardcities, is currently studying for a BA in Illustration here in Cardiff. Her style focuses on mixing different media to form collage pieces. Her work has been described as colourful, strange and unique. She sees her future to be just as colourful and will hopefully encounter some of the fantastical worlds that has created. www.cardboardcities.co.uk