VOYEUR...4 FEATURES...6 FOOD... 10 BOOKS...14 Travel...17 FASHION...20 PHOTOS...27 LGBT+...30 ARTS...32 MUSIC...38 Film...46
VOYEUR
Issue 103 December 6
FESTIVE GREETINGS. TOO EARLY? This issue has to cover three main events. Christmas. New Years. January Exams. A time for family. A time for friends. And a time for books. It seems as if no time has gone by but alas here we are; penniless as the and (mildly) stressed as essay deadlines draw nearer. For many of you out there this will be your last winter term, your last real Christmas break, your last January exam time - a year
gardless of what year you’re in. Housing drama, exam stress, snow days and drunken nights make for weeks that pass faster than humanly possible, until your room is just as you want it and its time to move out. Refreshers hits at the beginning of next term, and it is never too late to try your hand at something new and make the most out of your time. Us here at Quench welcome new contributors with open arms and squeals of joy, and soon it will time for us to hand over the mantle. In the words of the ever quoted National Lottery - It could be you. So go home and enjoy home cooked meals, laugh with friends with whom you shared your awkward school years and return to Uni in January prepared to make the most of the next two terms. New friends are here to be made, new experiences to be had, exams to be blitzed and if we keep going at this rate, copious amounts of ice to be slipped on. To end on the obvious note...Merry Christmas, Happy New Year and see you next term! Dom Kehat
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sical escape from this world of disappointments, I mainly spend my time daydreaming in the thoughts of small joys and pure wonder. I have phases of obsessions where I will repetitively draw certain objects or characters. I hope that my drawings represent a segment of my escapism and allow others to do the same. Holly Rogers was kind enough to illustrate the lovely cover this week. To see more of her work head on over to www.jollyillustration.co.uk
Quench Quickie No one ever knows the words, us here at Quench included....so start swotting up. The chorus to Auld Lang Syne. And for old long past, my joy (sweetheart), For old long past, We will take a cup of kindness yet, For old long past,
y r a n o i t c i D e n a Urb
VOYEUR
n) u o n ( . n o i t a r t s n o Dem
Secret (noun)
vire and unfurl my pre real-life tings once mo on ing t' ak en bre mm s' 'co eak ss kil pa 'wi tinue to fantasy. The Loath as I am to con e and philosophical ent, bizarre of passive ignoranc an expository statem ing eth som ously sturdy cocoon ded an dem s d absurdist ha s' an ble acy 'ca bassy clandestine diplom re, ltu cu of over 250,000 US Em ws ne more k loc air looking ever the ng of round-the-c ) come out of this aff as it was in its meldi ing say ut tho wi s goe e has (it ly reasonabl comedy. While the U.S across as confounding crete matan politicians came be guided by the con to fer pre we se cti paranoid aunt, Russi pra in t bu , rse cou of g din "It's entertaining rea nister. typigei Lavrov, Foreign Mi ent isn't typical of the ters of partners" - Ser lly h horizontal chillaxm rea suc d t an bu e, ted yb sla ma an ts en maybe he was mistr h ug Stereotypical sentim ho alt ', ces rvi 'se an diplomatic cally hard nosed Russi not presented as the
comedy villains.
ith of must be the awful zen way it's been reported the t tha re mo , me sts isn't really what intere of newsling news age. me realise the kind the information, rol somewhat, and made ry was ack sto ab the me k urs ho too n it ry have become. Withi t) no When I read the sto pe ho I , me t jus ns we (maybe consuming automato clouds fell and the ad absurdum until the er ath we t ou ab owing that g her than talkin spite of most of us kn sense of purpose rat of some sort that in al reported ray bly bet gli 't ird dn we ha of se capacity, the news e som seas melted. I felt a sen in on s goe lomacy probably such clandestine dip . it before focus of t. The U.S. isn't the Korea but it's not tha in r number wa tic a lis be t rea gh ly mi ate there 7 leaks, the desper ,56 134 bad. I mean I know d ha y'd the if be), afterall my scorn (as it should s should ed the cables. Secret glad wikileaks releas I'm . to bomb ng U.S thi t' the l cre tel 'se ies to the s on, when countr goe ' acy war. So, getting back lom 'dip oic h crazed paran be opened up when suc l like something out
the 24 hour news ree s not being fed into
in current affair . pleasant reality check LG
of Tron, it was a
vouyer@gairrhydd.com
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Reality TV: Are You Switching Off ? Reality TV. We're obsessed but is it as 'real' as we think? Jessica Lee investigates the latest phenomenon to hit our screens.
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FEATURES
Fake Boobs. Fake Hair. Fake Lives. The perfect components for a television programme based upon its claim of reality, right?! The Only Way is Essex, ITV2's new soap -meets- documentary, provides us with a lower budget, sluttier version of The Hills, following a select group of Essex inhabitants throughout their daily lives for ten weeks and infecting our vocabulary with words such as the 'vajazzle'. What remains crucial to the programme, however, is the way it can't be pigeonholed : in no way does it slot comfortably into the 'reality show' category which has remained dominated by the likes of Big Brother for the past decade, and neither does it stand amongst the beauty and class of Desperate Housewives and 90210 in the world of TV glamour-drama. We are instead offered the somewhat bizarre proposal of real people acting out un-real scenarios within their own reality. And so a new genre is born - the un-reality show. Perhaps we should give the programme credit for the overt honesty of its fakery. It is this paradox of terms which is presented to us by archetypal Essex-girl-done-good Denise Van Outen in the opening credits. It is suggested that “while the tans you may see might be fake. The people are all real, although some of what they do has been set up purely for your entertainment.” And so it is at this point that the boundary between reality and fantasy begins to dissolve; as real life becomes moulded into a dream world. Maybe, then, we are forced to consider why this fantasy is created? Are the girls of Essex becoming the new role models of the 21st censociety dominated by images of the glamour
model, plastic surgery and the z-list celebrity perhaps we are required to think of not only the show itself as a product of un-reality, but the ‘stars’ that it follows. Do we, then, need to acknowledge the power this has upon the viewer? Arguably, we may suggest that the importance played upon the seemingly every-day individual is somewhat empowering, but it is also naive in its construction. Take the example of girlconveniently into the show's requirements. We
from Universal Studios who are dying to give them a record deal. Not quite real life is it? And doesn’t it, surely, undermine the hard work put in by the talented unacknowledged musicians that work for years for simply no recognition? Conceivably, then, we may suggest that this new model for the un-reality show provides an entirely false representation of the constraints of life. This is, arguably, shown in the undeniable success of Lauren Conrad star of, formerly, Laguna Beach and The Hills. Following the story of ‘L.C’ as she is known by her ‘close friends’ and subsequently half of the English-speaking world, we are invited on a journey from daddy's-little-rich girl to intern at Teen Vogue to fashion star. Indeed, one cannot deny the idealistic nature of this life, a life many of us would kill for. But that, precisely, remains the point - Ms. Conrad did not have to kill anyone for her privileged position, merely be followed around by a camera. All I wonder is that if one day she realises that, despite her evident talent, her place in life comes not, initially, from ability but from her place in the origin of the un-reality and will regret it all.
quenchfeatures@gairrhydd.com
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We asked you to put your thinking caps on and come up with a new reality TV show. Here's our pick of the best:
MILF VS HERON than straight to Channel 5. I believe you are very fortunate to be seeing it before anyone else. 'MILF soft porn and Springwatch. You’ve just imagined ‘MILF vs. Heron’. geous over 40s mother of two (minimum) will be
folded and trapped in a MRI machine for 6 weeks aggression. And what's in it for the bird? Each MILF will have seven fresh koi carp strapped to their partially clothed bodies. Game on. Victory for either party (the heron wins by or killing the bird) sees their progression to the knockout rounds. With such a fair system in
by an underfed and lecherous wading bird. The a key which allows them to unlock the cupboard door and reunite her with her optional husband and compulsory children. Seems simple enough? Wrong. The key (and only way out) is cellotaped to the underside of
With scope for celebrity specials and a pro posed commentary team of Sean Connery and
Thank you for your time. Guy Kelly
COME MINE WITH ME The miraculous and daring story of the Chil ean miners was followed by people throughout the world. We could only imagine how the 33 trapped individuals managed to survive the tri
with our very own eyes? Millions would tune
derground for 69 days. Well what's the point of imagining when we could have simply dropped down a few cameras into the tunnels and ob served their painful and challenging adventure
sion would develop when food supplies begin to
ness underground romantic love triangles
awaiting their uncertain future. Alexi Gunner
THE TAKESHI FACTOR Now I invite you to imagine the hilarity which would surely ensue were we to cross Takeshi's Castle with X Factor
Simon Cowell sitting smugly behind his desk as the poor X Factor being chased by producers dressed as the Loch Ness monster. Cheryl would chase them through
lowed to sing for the panel but still have to avoid
of naff songs. I bet Leona Lewis wouldn't have made it! Where's Chico now anyway? Shayne Ward I reckon has poor balance and would take a tumble. I know who the victor would be... voice of an angel. A coconut wouldn't throw her
would surely hurl coconuts at them as they try to run across a thin piece of revolving metal. Louis would oversee the commentary in a very can only dream of.
her and she could probably just attack the em erald guards tanks single handedly. This is the dream... Benji Lamb
FEATURES
BRITAIN'S NEXT TOP SANTA As if there wasn’t enough hype leading up to Christmas, a Crimbo-style reality TV show could be what has always been missing. What could be a better accompaniment to a warm mince pie than a sherry-fuelled Santa war? My vision for a new reality show sees a group of wannabe Santa Clauses battling it out to become the ultimate Mr. Claus! I can see a huge cash prize, the chance to and a starring role in the renowned Coca Cola ‘Holidays Are Coming’ advert! I can see a judging panel of Noel Edmunds (a Christmas must!), a sexy someone to represent Mrs. Claus and maybe Simon Cowell as resident Scrooge. And perhaps an elf to hold up the scores? The aspiring Kris Kringles could shack up together in La-
pland and undergo a gruelling set of tasks each day of Advent. Bring it on! Behind each door of the Advent calendar in the Lapland grotto could be the details of a different wintry challenge. Each Father Christmas could have their own reindeer to rear, poo shovelling and all! Other tasks could include mince pie eating contests, sleigh racing after downing a few sherries, toy making and the best decorated tree! The eliminations could see the two lowest scoring Santas tackle an obstacle course
making a Christmas wish come true. Surely a classic in the making! Lydia Korol-Bluring
You thought those were weird... here's one that actually exists! To Catch a Predator answers that age old question, how does one catch a paedophile? Before the internet it was relatively easy: you just disguised yourself as a child and waited to be offered parma violets or a Freddo at your local park. Alas, those days have gone, and that kind old man that your parents warned you about took a computer course at his local college. The US network NBC teamed up with the charity Perverted Justice to go onto the chat rooms, they pretend to be a young child and eventually get hit on by men who should know better. It gets worse when these men send a picture of their penis to the ‘child’, and worse still when NBC insist on showing the viewer the picture only slightly blurred. Now with the courting process over the actor arranges for the paedophile to visit their house and it all turns a little bit Punk’d. The actor greets the paedophile, who will usually have brought alcopops, beer and questionable facial hair. They will then have an awkward conversation, where the paedophile will try his best to be charming, and when no doubt the actor will ponder whether catching paedophiles was why they got into show business. So to recap, in the last 5 minutes you have seen a paedophile's penis, and him try to charm a child, now things take a turn for the worse for the sweaty gentleman. Chris Hansen the presenter strolls into the room as the secret cameras keep rolling on and the paedophile's expression changes from a creepy smile to a creepy sadness. At this
moment they do not know who the show's hero, Chris Hansen is. The majority think he is a policeman, others will naturally think that he is the child’s father, either way it’s bad news. Yet they stay to talk to him, giving excuses such as not knowing the fake child’s age, just having a social visit, or ironically coming to warn the child about the dangers of meeting strange men on the internet. Then Chris Hansen shows them the chat logs, and a picture of their penis, and if it hadn’t dawned on them before they know they are in the shit. Chris Hansen informs them that he is from NBC and they are on a television show, cameras come out pointing at their faces. If that isn’t bad enough for these unfortunate souls, outside the house the 5-0 are hiding; in one episode, a cop is disguised as a bush. As the paedophile leaves they jump out and tackle him a bush tackle a paedophile? This is such a bizarre ‘reality’ television show that manages to do the impossible and make the viewer feel sorry for paedophiles who realise they have managed to screw their whole lives up. Don’t get me wrong, catching paedophiles is never a bad thing, but to do so in an entertaining manner feels a little bit strange. Especially as the show had to be taken off the air because in one un-aired episode the ex-District Attorney of Texas Louis Conradt shot himself in his bathroom as the police raided his house. The moral ambiguity of this show leaves a nasty taste.. Richard Arnold quenchfeatures@gairrhydd.com
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FOOD
Shot in the Dark
Two teaspoons of jazz and a splash of soul, please...
I know this is supposed to be the food section, that A Shot in the Dark dishes up, but I’m not the food in Shot is hearty, home made and deli-
sophisticated and artsy atmosphere that make cal artists and the brown leather sofas are so comfortable that it is almost too easy to spend
Gavin Jewkes Shot in the Dark- 12 City Road, Cathays
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food@gairrhydd.com food@gairrhydd.com
FOOD
JUNO LOUNGE Nestled snugly among the trendy cafĂŠs, bars
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FOOD
'Tis the Season to get FATand
Drunk...
Hot Spiced Cider -
Layla Farag
Christmas Gingerbread Ingredients
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Joanne Southerd
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Ingredients
Eggnog
FOOD
to come together. The making process took a little more time than expected due to whisking but the
serves 6 2 eggs 50-75g caster sugar
aroma of christmas alone should be enough to in-
200ml full cream milk 150ml whipping cream
sight was "ah mushroom soup" however once he Method
sweet the drink was. Feedback from other housemates seemed to follow a similar pattern of turning their nose
Whisk in the rum or bourbon, a small bit at a time In a separate bowl whisk the egg whites until stiff peaks form
with a delighted shock and gulping down some gredients. Their confusion and disgust made me
Whip cream in separate bowl until it holds shape and fold into mixture Chill or heat the eggnog and serve in a glass with a dusting of nutmeg
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Method be straightforward. However, separating the
I think that the pre-conceptions of this American treat are apparent, some even refusing to
I whisked in caster sugar and the egg began its
picked up on the trend, introducing it to their
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Perhaps in time to come eggnog will become a more British tradition. Instead of falling asleep on the sofa this Christmas Eve with a tipple of
white rum while whisking. The smell was un-
cream began to settle into the mix a smooth and slap up Christmas meal! Megan Hocking
Cointreau Mince Pies Ingredients For Mincemeat 300g Soft dark sugar 4 tbsp Cointreau 1 kg Cooking apples peeled and grated 1tsp Mixed spice 1tsp Ground cinnamon 1tsp Nutmeg 250g Currants 250g Raisins 75g Dried cranberries or glace cherries
3 Tbsp thick cut orange marmalade
100g Butter 100g Golden caster sugar Pinch of salt 1 Tbsp water Milk to glaze
Method
1.Pop all the mincemeat ingredients in a large ovenproof bowl, stir, and set aside overnight to allow the 2.Cook the mixture on a low heat (225째F, 120째C) for 3
5.Add approx a tbsp of water and bind using a wooden spoon. aside in the fridge for an hour or so.
10.Bake in a moderate oven (gas mark 4, 350째F, 180째C) for double cream with a dash or cointreau stirred in. Chloe Slade
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BOOKS
LORD OF THE RINGS
The Hobbit due on our screens some time in the foreseeable future, perhaps it’s The Lord of the Rings.
For
Against
As an English Literature student, I’m rather reluctant to answer the question ‘what’s your favourite book?’, but when pressed to give some kind of response I always say The Lord of the Rings. The iconic status of the story was what
Occasionally, there are sentences in the English language that should never be uttered. One such involves the words 'Lord of the Rings', 'marathon' and 'tomorrow?' in hot succession as what it inevitably leads to is a situation whereby all of your housemates are transformed into one big, pyjama-wearing
while my obsession does go as far as to force me to re-read the whole thing (appendices and all) every year, who could not love the story? There is something to offer to everyone: fantastical yet realistic characters, an epic quest, a love story... Not forgetting Tolkien’s incredible ability to inout the world he created into something so much While some people may see it as a load of pointless battles with various confusingly named characters, the story is one that anyone can relate to. The triumph of good over evil is one of the greatest and most emotively written plots ever and if you don’t feel proud and moved at the end of The Return of the King then you must be emotionally stunted. Plus, is there anyone who having read LOTR doesn’t want to be a Hobbit and frolic around The Shire? The depth of immersion reached when reading it simply does Tolkien’s academic background allowed for such fastidious planning so that every minute fact you ever wanted to know is covered in The Silmarillion story! The very ability to reference elements of this book casually is a testament to its popularity - from Gollum to Gandalf, Mordor to Minas Tirith, if you drop it into conversation, people will know what you’re talking about, and how many books can honestly say that? Kate Boddington
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by some hairy men walking around New Zealand. For ten hours. And why does this happen? Well, it's all because of a book that's even more tedious and describing. Basically, The Lord of the Rings is a fairytale in a far-away land written by a smug university professor. I say 'smug' because it's easy to imagine Tolkien smirking (rather like Gollum) as he went about peppering Middle Earth with unpronouncable Old English place names like 'Osgiliath' and 'Cirith Ungol', and 'Tom Bombadil' to trip up his young readers. I mean, are we meant to think there's something high-brow or clever about Frodo and his cronies just because they can bust out a few runes? In actuality, LOTR is neither that clever nor that original; it's just the same old cosmic battle between good and since time immemorial, and Tolkien does little to refresh it. In fact, he probably didn't have to think that hard for inspiration given that the Second World War was in full swing when he wrote it. Yet, over and above the hairy feet, the unoriginality and the orcs, the thing that annoys me the most about LOTR is how it encourages everybody to rerfer to their hometown as The Shire (no matter
Basingstoke. Matt Wright
If you're a fan of Lord of the Ring fan, you may also enjoy these:
A Game of Thrones by George RR Martin Martin’s world is one of sorcery, dragons and strange creatures like so much fantasy. Yet it is arguably a far more realistic, believable world in many aspects than in any other major work of fantasy. A Game of Thrones amongst the major lordly families on the continent of Westeros, and
of politics and murders, love and war, and more twists and turns than you could possibly guess at. Greg Rees
The Mists of Avalon by Marion Zimmer Bradley A must-read for any who, like me, are studying the Arthurian Literature module on the English Literature BA this term. Bradley skilfully combines the many elements of the Arthurian legend which have developed over the centuries into one novel that still somehow manages ing plunges the reader straight into the realms of fantasy. The Mists of Avalon offers an intriguing new spin on the legend which tends to blame its women for its collapse and defeat by developing these previously underdeveloped characters, all the while maintaining respect for its source material. A thoroughly recommended novel which is almost impossible, once begun, to put down. Catriona Camacho
books@gairrhydd.com
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BOOKS
e l a T e h t d in h e b e l The Ta examines some of the motives behind Tolkien's classic novels.
The Lord of the Rings is the most popular novel of the twentieth century, yet it is also one of the most derided. J. R. R. Tolkien’s fantasy epic has sold over 150 million copies. The tale of Frodo the hobbit has won poll after poll across the world. But many critics howl in protest at its success, dismissing it as childish escapism. I admit it’s a story, no, a world that you can lose yourself in. The hobbits, with their anachronistically English ways, are our companions on the journey into Middle Earth. It’s full of great characters, such as Frodo and Sam, Gollum and Gandalf.
But good storytelling isn’t childish. The people who worry most about 'escape' are jailers. Great literature is more than just a good yarn, but not less. Far from being “mere escapism”, Tolkien used fantasy to deal with the big issues of the 20th century. Like George Orwell, Kurt Vonnegut, and William Golding, Tolkien turned to the fantastic to make sense of his experiences of modern warfare. Industrialization, global warfare, environmentalism and the nature of evil all loom large in the fabric of his novel. Modernist writers responded to the horrors of the First World War and the barrenness of modern life with increasingly disjointed and formless writings. Writers like T. S. Eliot drew on ancient myth, but as broken fragments. Tolkien, while sharing many of their concerns, did something very different.
great values of human civilization: Good against Evil. Unity over division. Self-sactime, but to all times.
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TRAVEL
Destination
...GO APE!
Sick of buying socks and smellies? Go nuts this Christmas and treat a mate to a day out at Go Ape... Have you ever thought of yourself as a bit of a monkey? Do you enjoy putting yourself to the test? If so we’ve got just the thing for you! Only 40 minutes drive away, Go-Ape is easily found just off J38 of the M4 in Margam Country Park. You can’t miss it; look out for the smokeridden sky of Port Talbot steelworks. However, look the other way, and in the beautiful parkland surrounding Margam castle, a Tudor-Gothic venture. Located in the woods the canopy course is a combination of ladders, zip wires, nets, crossings and challenging obstacles that lead you from one tree top to the next, giving you the ultimate high wire experience. Our favourite obstacle was the Tarzan swing, which has the biggest drop of all the Go-Ape sites in the UK and takes some guts to jump off – it really gets your adrenalin pumping! At thirty pounds Go-Ape can seem a little expensive for the average student budget. However, the student discount offered makes it a reasonably-priced treat. For that you get 3 hours on the -
ment (harness, karabiners, and pulleys) and a 30
staff (and a dog) greet you as you arrive and ask you to sign your life away. Once the safety briefing’s out the way they pretty much leave you to it, but an instructor is never more than a shout away if you’re feeling unsure or want an action shot taken. Go-Ape is a great group activity, the more the merrier, catering for all ages. It would be an excellent birthday/work outing especially if you They do group deals and discounts, especially in the off-peak season. Go-Ape provides an action -packed morning or afternoon with splendid views (minus the steel works), that can be followed by a walk in the country park to try and spot the largest deer herd in Wales, or maybe a refreshing drink in the castle’s cafe. Have fun monkey-ing around! Elly Morris and Laura Haines
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TRAVEL TRAVEL
India are a minority in India, they are not the only ones who cherish this beautiful festival. Because India is a land of cultural and religious diversity the festival has blended with every year and the enthusiasm for it lasted all my school life. ent classes (in India classes are organised by numbers and each number was divided to become a canvas of Christmas symbols owing to the decorations. I remember each food used to be distributed among all the members of the section and by the end of the stopped buying the Christmas tree. est Catholic population hence celebrations are in full swing. Most houses are lighted
Zenia Diwan
Christmas Abroad Step into a different culture this festive season.
Germany
It‘s been the same every year. I attempt to wait for Christmas, but by September I am already buying Ginger bread and listening to Christmas songs alone in my room. I begin to feel truly
Every small, self-respecting town has a Christmas fair including my hometown in Bavaria. My friends and I go to choose from the wide choice of mulled wines, and to and stand
Christmas revolves around family in Germany, so don‘t try and call your friends for a -
there is usually the possibility of snow on Christmas Eve. Johannes Laubmeier
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TRAVEL
Iran
TRAVEL
there on a family visit three years ago. My Dad’s family is part of the minority of Christians living in this Islamic country where Christmas is not celebrated. Yet despite this fact, I was major newspapers, wishing a Merry Christmas to the Christians of the world. I thought this was not ignored – a comforting thought when miles away from the familiar English routine of exchanging presents and a huge roast dinner followed by a sprawl on the sofa and the Queen’s speech. presents, it was fairly uneventful and didn’t quite have that magical Christmas feeling. HowChristmas I’ve ever had. It was the deepest snow I’d ever seen and had a great time playing around in it with my sisters. Despite the general discomfort of having to cover up in public, headscarf and all, it turned out to be pretty cosy attire for a good play in the snow! New Year was a bigger event for the Christian community there, and though I don’t regard myself as religious, there was something very special about the Christian community coming together and celebrating as the minority. Natasha Brandaro
Sweden you’re inside a Coca Cola Christmas advert. Swedish winter festivities are excellent at warmSaint Lucias roaming around giving you hearty smiles. If you’re feeling a bit more adventurous you could go up to northern Lapland, to the spectacular ice hotel. Yes, it’s completely made out of ice. Even the beds. You can also go reindeer sleighing, or alternatively indulge in their One of the more odd features- acting as a sort of equivalent to the Queen’s speech- is the compulsory tradition of watching Disney cartoons on Christmas Eve, regardless of what age you are. Lastly, it’s worth noting that if you spend Christmas in Sweden you get to open your presents a day early, but you’ve probably already received the best gift of all the second you step into the Scandinavian snowglobe at what is indisputably its best time of year. Alex Gunner
Aus When my best friend and I left behind a typically grey and miserable English winter, arriving in Australia in late November- the start of its summer- the timing had been no coincidence. Indeed, we'd pretty much planned the entireity of our long-awaited 8 month gap year (sorry...'gap yah') around one premise: get in as much sunlight as humanly possible. Of course, what with all the tanning we had to do, it would have been easy to forget that Christmas was looming. However, never ones to miss out on the chance to party, the locals refused to allow this to happen. In fact, as the date approached we found ourselves busier memorably- a carol service on the beach!
Sound of Music to be seen. Unfortunately I couldn't say the same for the standard Boxing Day hangover- but somehow this one had seemed worth it. Emma Brown travel@gairrhydd.com
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Once Upon a Time...
Dust off the cobwebs and recapture childhood fairytales with Topshop's partywear.
Opposite:Transform into a swan princess with feminine white chiffon ÂŁ60. Below: Become queen of the
fashion@gairrhydd.com
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This page Opposite:
This page: Red Riding Hood abandons the forest. One shoulder dress £38, black court shoes £69
Styled by Gwennan Rees and Lucy Trevallion Photography by Tom Armstrong and Chris Grif-
FASHION
top tips for party dressing this festive season. Gwennan Rees provides you with the key tips to keep in mind when
1.
Shopping on the high street this season? Chances are countless others are too. Avoid the dreaded mishap of being seen in the same dress as someone else by veering towards vintage for one-of-a-kind treasures.
2.
If money is a little tight this party season (let’s face it, much like British snow, the student loan is getting a bit thin on the ground) but your social calendar is packed jam full of party invites, choose a simple dress and make it all about the accessories. Re-work the dress with different shoes, jewellery and bag for a completely different look for party after party, just please give it a wash inbetween!
3.
If you’re giving yourself a pre-Christmas present, head to topshop.com for some limited edition dresses. They’re a tad more pricey at over a hundred pounds a pop but they are absolutely gorgeous and you’re much less likely to see one of its siblings at the same party.
4.
Fancy some designer sparkle but without the hefty price tag? Lucky for you H&M have teamed up with Lanvin. Their aim is to “translate the dream we created at Lanvin to a wider audience” says Alber Elbaz. So H&M is going luxury with lots of Lanvin signatures in the form of modern cocktail dresses bursting with florals or ruffles.
5.
Raid your wardrobe! You know there’s probably something in there that you haven’t worn in ages! This is a good way to save your pennies for those all important prezzies you’re yet to buy.
6.
Order in! Who wants to be trawling the freezing cold highstreet with all those bustling people who are stressing out over what the perfect present for Aunt Muriel might be? Keep your patience and your love of shopping by ordering the perfect outfit online and get it delivered straight to your door. Who said living in a digital age would be all bad?
fashion@gairrhydd.com
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FASHION
Stocking Fillers for Under a Fiver Oh yes it’s that time of year again, snow is falling, children are singing and we’re roaming the streets in the impossible pursuit of the perfect present. This profoundly difficult task is made even more irksome by student budget constraints. Nevertheless, search hard enough and the bargains are out there. Here are just a few stocking fillers for under £5 to get you started. By Polly Robinson, creator of studentbeautytriedandtested.blogspot.com Love bracelet- £4.00 Accessorize If you want to send a not-so-subtle message to a special someone this Christmas then this is possibly the most romantic and cost effective way to do it. Cheesy it may be but give a girl this and you won’t need mistletoe to procure a kiss.
Fair Isle Socks-Topshop £3.00 (Men)-£3.50 (Ladies) So socks might be a bit of a cliché but I challenge anyone to be disappointed at receiving a pair of these beauts. Fair isle knit is not only nostalgically festive but bang on trend at the moment. If your loved one fantasises about a snowy Christmas in Aspen, then this is the gift for them.
Christmas Bra and Knickers set – Primark £5 A quick word of warning to those brave fellows contemplating the Primark underwear department; make sure you know the object of your affection’s size! This will not only save you the embarrassment of asking a buxom shop assistant if you can cop a feel, but will also avoid any awkward, big-bum-related confrontations on the day of giving.
Mini-hand warmers- Topshop £5 Perfect for the girl that has everything/ the girl you barely know but somehow ended up with for Secret-Santa. These kitsch, re-usable hand warmers heat up in an instant to keep you toasty on a cold Cardiff morning.
Me me me Highlighter in Sunbeam- £4.50 Superdrug Buying for a cosmetic addict or one who’s over-indulged in pre-Christmas festivities? This illuminating fluid is so like Benefit moonbeam that I’m surprised there hasn’t been a law-suit. The only difference is it’s a snip of the price, so although it will brighten your friend's flagging face it won’t lighten your wallet.
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Elly Morris wins this issue's 'Christmas' theme with this magical photo entitled 'Cathays in the Snow.' We hope you enjoy the holiday, and keep aking photos!
PHOTOS
PHOTOS
For this issue of Quench, we thought we would show some of the unseen entries which unfortunatelty we did not have room for. The standard and variety of photo's sent in this term has been really high, and this is really just a way of us relieving our guilty conscience about not having
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PHOTOS
We're looking forward to seeing all the entries next term. Oh, and heres a photo tip for over the holidays - you can get 40 free prints from photobox when you sign up at the moment - so why not print out some of your favourite snaps and use them as Christmas cards this season.
quenchphotos@gairrhydd.com
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NO:HOMO
SHUH-MYON-CHKO INTRODUCES & EXPLORES The only time I ever experienced a Polish gay scene was two years ago in Kraków, in a tiny place off the city’s nightclub centre in a rather murky street where the sign was hung up so high it was practically invisible. This forced me and a couple of friends to ask a number of people where the club was, to which we were sadly met with ambiguous smiles. In the capital wearing their thick framed glasses and vintage jewellery, all the cool gays of Poland hold their skinny hands together in pride. In fact, it is not only ok to be gay in Warsaw, it is actually quite cool too, depending on your hipster rank. However, if you’re not a generic hipster or living in the centre of the modern capital, being openly gay can be a struggle in Poland. The times are changing, but there’s too much uptightness in the air, too much tradition, too many conventions and too little thinking accounting for the majority that still holds LGBT+ communities in Poland and likewise in other Central-Eastern European countries, chained down. This results in victims, but even more so in a general ignorance and complete obliviousness to LGBT existence. It’s not even about being intolframe Eastern Europeans still so often hold on to tightly to defend themselves from, quite frankly, themselves. What I personally love about Cardiff is its natural and very genuinely cool vibe, steps ahead with its way too cool to care or resort to narrow-minded opinions. This view is commonly shared by the international LGBT+ students. D from Brunei said “Coming from a country where homosexuality is illegal, Cardiff is pretty much my version of heaven. To be out and to actually be able to talk about my sexuality is something I’ve never been able to do before so I am honestly enjoying myself here”. M from Spain said “Life in Cardiff is quiet and nice. People are actually really open and kind, whether concerning your nationthat “I felt really welcome here as soon as I arrived. I’ve found most people to be extremely open and friendly. Back in the Los Angeles area I feel people are much more self-contained, and I didn’t socialize nearly as much there as I do here. I really feel like a part of a community at Cardiff University, which is something I never felt as much back in the States.” mere unfriendly, but frequently life threatening. In a place as open and friendly as Cardiff the injustice they face daily can be easily forgotten, but the LGBT+ community and others who place human rights at high regard need remember their daily plight. Anna Siemiaczko
LGBT+
Laura Gwilliams investigates how while in the UK it's O.K to be gay, for a lot of the world it isn't.
In the United Kingdom LGBT rights are solidly established, and with the rise of gay culture in the last decade, to think that less than 50 years ago homosexuality was illegal in this country gives a real perspective as to how things have changed. But LGBT rights are not standardised across the globe - some countries such as Iceland, Canada and Argentina allow same-sex marriages. In many countries, however, to be openly attracted to a member of the same sex means putting yourself in severe danger – imprisonment, torture or even the death penalty. It's easy to let such an extreme violation of human rights become abstract when they are
friends and family, and showing affection to your partner in public for fear of insults from passers by. These things taken into account though, I personally, and luckily, have never felt in personal danger because of my sexual orientation, or felt that I needed to hide it for my own safety. This fear is the reality for thousands of people living in countries where homosexuality is illegal. Countries such as Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Iran and Afghanistan in the Middle East have a history of severe punishment to individuals caught taking part in homosexual behaviour, with torture and public execution being common. I recently had the pleasure of meeting Shroukie from Egypt, an 18-year-old lesbian asylum seeker living in Cardiff. She had her asylum claim denied a month ago, meaning she will be forced to return to Egypt where homosexuality is illegal. As her family are now aware of her sexuality, they are likely to force her into an arranged marriage, submit her to physical abuse and circumcise her when they realise she is no longer a virgin. Unfortunately this is not a rare occurrence, and the laws to protect gay asylum seekers from danger due to their sexual orientation are, well, non-existent. The UK borders agency has a long way to go in regard to the treatment of asylum claims on the basis of sexuality, as an astounding 97% of such claims are rejected, meaning they are sent back to a country which condemns their way of life. This forces them to either hide their sexuality and live as a heterosexual, or face the consequences. There are a number of things which the UK has got right in terms of LGBT recognition and respect, and it is important to not take for granted how lucky we are. Even if it's just tuning into the next series of Lip Service or stumbling into Pulse for cheap drinks, the freedom to not fear persecution for living and loving who you want is a privilege many are without. To help Shroukie in her campaign search 'Save The Shrouk' on Facebook. Laura Gwilliams.
ARTS
Synopsis
of the Great Welsh Novel Dai K lives at the end of a valley. One is not quite sure Whether it has been drowned or not. His Mam Loves him too much and his Dada drinks. As for his girlfriend Blodwen, she’s pregnant. So Are all the other girls in the village – there’s been a Revival. After a performance of Elijah, the mad preacher Davies the Doom has burnt the chapel down. One Saturday night after the dance at the Con Club, With the Free Wales Army up to no good in the back lanes, A stranger comes to the village; he is, of course, God, the well-known television personality. He succeeds In confusing the issue, whatever it is, and departs On the last train before the line is closed. Involving all the most respected citizens; the Choir Wins at the National. It is all seen, naturally, Through the eyes of a sensitive boy who never grows up. The men emigrate to America, Cardiff and the moon. The girls Find rich and foolish husbands. Only daft Ianto Is left to recite the Complete Works of Sir Lewis Morris To puzzled sheep, before throwing himself over The edge of an abandoned quarry. One is not quite sure Harri Webb
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ARTS
...Synopsis of Welsh Life Harri Webb’s tantalising mock satire of Welsh life cracks me up every time I read it. Blodwen the underage mother-to-be; the nation of sheepshaggers and preachers; the inability to 'get with the times' (electricity was only introduced last year). More amusing – and worrying – is just how accurate this account seems to be. Boasting one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the UK; mass unemployment following the depreciation of the mining and steel industries during the '80s; and a bipolar history plagued by staunch nationalism on the one side and complete apathy on the other… remind me again why I am proud to be Welsh? pact this is having (or - indeed - will have) on our vastly changed homeland. Following huge cuts under the Conservative government how is the world of art coping and is there a future for the arts in Wales? From the mineshafts to the prestigious mountains; from the land of myth and legend to the reality of poverty and unemployment; from the here to the then. In this edition of Quench we roam the various landscapes of Wales and explore what is being done to preserve tha arts in Wales and why so many artists, poets and actors who leave seem to return. Is it the culture? Is it the history? Is it the rugby (probably not based on recent performances)? Or is it, simply, because Wales is home...
Re-live No fancy props or complicated lighting; no is a pure production, profound and personal. providing insight from war-torn Britain and the haven of Wales. Each person has their own individual experiences; but all with particular ties to the Welsh valleys. Terri Morrow introduces her life through the isolation of her family home and escapes only through a thoughtful pen friend.
fully crafted this autobiographical play so the audience cannot only implore the lives being displayed but also explore their own. From a different generation's standpoint the countless anecdotes contain an apposite vivacity. The slight Welsh phrases resurface memories of childhood known by many who have grown up in Wales, while shedding light to those who are not familiar with the quaint Welsh-isms. Most notably was 'ach a vie' something my 'Mam' would say to me if I had accidentally picked up a bit of food off
into a small Welsh family after being evacupresents light laughter even though her story is deep and focuses on oppression in her marriage. Each tale perfectly crafted and woven together highlights hidden and intimate pasts.
odd woodlouse. Despite being of the youngest generation asks everyone to look into the lives of people, an older generation and this generation. The and resides in us all: we all have a story to
what was a very successful play, none of the essence appears to be lost; it is still as honest and poignant. Karin Diamond has wonder-
call our own.
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ARTS As the dark and comic Harri Webb pointed out, we Welsh like to venture back in time and cling to the issues and cultures of the age-old past. Intrigued? Why not join us on a short, Doctor-Who inspired journey through some of the ages, with buildings and artefacts intact, that have shaped the ‘modern’ (ok – might be pushing it a bit there) Wales.
Down the A4232, in a land not too far away, is the mystical world 100-acres of prime parkland the museum lays in the ground of the striking 16th century castle bequeathed to the hills and valleys of .
Croe so i Gym r u ...Welc A Castle or a Trinket Box?
o e to Walem s
houses in Wales.’ Built in 1580 the interior was remodelled in the 19th century and boasts a tantalizing trinket-box collection of original furniture, art, and residence at the end of the 19th century, that of Lord Robert-Windsor, later the Museum Wales in 1946. The greatest delight – amidst the howling winds and sheets of rain – is the luscious greenery surrounding the masonry of the castle walls. From thyme gardens to Italian mazes; from lichen glazed ponds to fancy fountains; everything has been authentically created to mirror the gardens once planted by the original dwellers of the domain…
Did you know? In order to preserve some of the tapestry and furniture – the most infamous being a unique embroidered sofa from 1845 – they had to freeze the material for a month to disseminate any live moth balls which might have been lurking in the depths of the material. .. nice.
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ARTS
Rhyd-y-Car Ironworkers' Ho u
se s in the 19th Century
Dressed in waterproofs and clutching hoods for dear life the line of visitors wade through torrents of rain and stumble across a friendly dwelling: it is a row of terraced houses. Their contents and gardens suggest working class routes. There is evidence of hard labor via distressed doorsteps marked by heavy workmen’s boots. Take in the rooms, furniture and objects illustratthe industrial revolution and one of the most important ironmanufacturing towns in the world in the 19th century.
Did you know? people were employed in industry than agriculture via the slate quarries in the north, the copper and iron works in the south west and the thriving coal mines of the Rhondda and Cardiff.
The Workmen’s Institute:
Oakdale tury, workmen’s institutes – also called miners’ institutes – became the hub of the community with a little bit of something for everyone from dances, political lectures and even the odd poultry show (Chicken Run eat your heart out). These institutes were owned by miner's groups who gave a proportion of their wage into a communal fund to pay for the construction and running of the building. The institutes would normally contain a library, reading room and meeting room. ing economic deprivation – many of the buildings were left to ruin. The postindustrial age has seen a slow increase in prosperity which has stimulated a revival of some of the institutes in former mining communities. Examples inthemselves as entertainment or arts centres.
on Rhondda coal and Rhondda coal alone. They regarded it as the best coal in the world.
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Arts Scene
ARTS
The Gate, 26/11 New Theatre, 11/11
CARRIE'S WAR JOURNEYS
Journeys showcased a diverse assortment of dance acts from the Cathays and
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Becca Eustis
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Maya Acharya
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Chapter, 19/11
MUSCLE
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Gavin Jewkes
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The Provincial, 24/11
MEASURE FOR ALICE IN PANTOLAND AN ACT ONE PRODUCTION MEASURE
ARTS
Sex, drugs and... Shakespeare. An unlikely concotion some might say. The Sherman Cymru's adaptation of Shakespeare's notorious play was dark, pensive and delisciously sexual. Combining traditional verse and the sensuous tones of the saxophone this play incorporated a bit of cross-dressing (oooh la la!); Chicagoinspired choreography (naughty); and unsettling interactive monologues between audience and cast. This was a believable modern portrayal of Shakespeare's tale of sex, corruption and familial love. Although it lacked the lustre of the RSC's vintage stage pieces this was a commendable attempt at bringing an age-old tale into the current cultural climate. Forget X-Factor: think X-rated. This is a sure way to get the blood pumping and warm the winter blues. Katie Haylock
Students Union Great Hall
A REAL CHRISTMAS CRACKER Panto: the jewel in the crown of British theatre. Each year, a lucky few have the privilege to watch a truly great panto. And this year, gentle reader, one of those lucky few could be YOU! Alice in Pantoland may be the greatest artistic achievement that Cardiff University has EVER produced. Or it may be a cheap excuse for a load of cock gags, a farcical storyline, and some wanton cross-dressing in outrageous costumes. Expect a Mad Hatter, and a Cheshire Cat! Expect a Panto Dame and a Panto Cow! Expect gorgeous babes and hunky rugby players! But most of all, expect this two-hour show to be the ONLY chink of sunlight that may penetrate the gloom of an otherwise cold and cheerless winter. We know times are tough (well, the Students’ Union keeps telling us that). So let us, the cast and crew of Act One entertain you, and join Alice on her MAGICAL adventure! Alice in Pantoland will be showing in the Students’ Union Great Hall from the 9th to the 11th December. Tickets available from the Students’ Union Box Matthew Churchill
arts@gairrhydd.com
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MUSIC
MUSIC
Editorial At the time of writing both Christmas and New Year seem quite a distance away, even if this year's Christmas advertising campaign would have you believe otherwise. As such, it is through somewhat gritted teeth that I wish you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Not that I am in anyway a miser during the festive season, but the deluge of 24-hour advertising has left me a little fatigued. However, the first day of December is a matter of hours away and I have noticed myself singing the entirety of the Nat King Cole/Frank Sinatra holiday canon over the last few days. As much as I resent getting into the Christmas spirit before the first day of December, when the Xmas bug bites the only course is that of full blown infection. I have been bitten, I am infected and delirious. O come, all ye faithful! So yes, may your collective Christmases be white and wonderful. So, after three, Chestnuts roasting on an open fire . . . . Jon Berry
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MUSIC
Previews
Arcade Fire
Islet
Backroom
CIA Thurs 9th December
Clwb Ifor Bach Sat 13th December
The Vaults Sun 26th December
This is one event in the Cardiff live music calendar that needs no introduction. The magnificent Arcade Fire will be bringing their sepia-tinged, highly orchestrated baroque-rock to the capital for what promises to be a unique and highly memorable performance. Following what can only be described as a universally positive recepition of their most recent album, The Suburbs, Arcade Fire continue to dumbfound and bewilder their followers in equal measures. Reminiscent of a Grant Wood painting, Arcade Fire delicately blur the line between nostalgia and contemporary immediacy; the stage will be adorned with all manner of antiqued instrumentation and objet d'art. Psyche-folk stalwart Devendra Banhart will be supporting, offering up a healthy slice of psyched out acoustica. Heartwarming stuff.
Islet are a band so steeped in their own mythology that it would be hard to discern whether they exist or not. Choosing to completely turn their backs on the electronic world (that's right, they don't have Myspace!) Islet can only be experienced live. If you missed these guys at Swn then this will be the perfect opportunity to experience Islet in all their primal glory. Islet fall outside the realms of common superlatives. They reside in some strange alternate reality where conventions of verses and choruses hold no real grasp over their musical craft. Expect epic musical landscapes, gutteral wailing, primordial rhythms and a lot of instrument swapping. Also sharing the bill are Shape Record stablemates Sweet Baboo, H. Hawkline and Failed Nasa Experiment.
For those not content spending their Boxing Day eating roast turkey sandwiches and watching to air this year, then there is another option. Instead of decomposing away in front of the goggle-box, bloated and fuggy amidst the detritus of broken toys, day old wrapping paper and piles of boxes, get yourself down to the bay for a party of mammoth proportions. A staple for every German house/techno DJ whilst travelhave become synonymous with the underground (literally) party scene. The Boxing Day party will be no exception playing host to Prosumer, Dave Little and Clare James. Dance off the Christmas caloclusive of parties. Jon Berry
gairrhyddmusic@gmail.com
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ALBUMS
A rundown of some recent releases
The Greenhornes **** V2 Records
6/10 The Greenhornes return from an 8 year hiatus to release their new album Four Stars. Two of the three band members also play with The Raconteurs and both bands share similar inare not trying to reinvent the wheel with this album, but deliver 12 songs of wailing guitars, pounding drums and all those other rock clichés that keep kids clapping. I can’t decide whether this album is endearing or dull, many of the songs seem too formulaic, paint by numbers rock if you will. But it is hard not to be drawn into songs such as Left the World Behind, its catchy hook and stomping chorus making me weirdly nostalgic for an age of music I was never alive to experience. The lyrics often feel uncomfortable, an afterthought: "Does your father know where his money goes? I’m willing to bet he would cancel all his cheques if he could
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see" feels like being told off by a neighbour. The running theme is of course that topic that never goes out of fashion - love. They sing about needing love, what they would do for love, how their heart beat increases and it is all very predictable and familiar. Four Stars is an album you have probably heard before; it is an album to be enjoyed not loved, to not be taken too seriously. The band's musical abilities keep this album from falling to complete mediocrity, yet their lack of new ideas will keep it from being remembered. Richard Arnold
Beans On Toast
Writing on the Wall Xtra Mile Recordings
7/10 If you’re after an artist doing whatever the hell he wants, look ster of a debut album, and he’s about to release the follow-up on cause it’s his birthday.
Writing on the Wall is a thirty-minute country-folk honkyThe
Wurzels
might
possibly nitely something clever going on here. Listen closely to his grimy, gravelly vocals on the ironic love song Wild, Foolish + Forgetful to appreciate the golden one-liners including "last night I had a pretty girl sucking on… my conversation". And on tracks such as Oil, it seems there’s a sincere political statement buried deep within those layers of twanging songs are confessional, anecdotal, ranging from the somewhat romantic M25 to the shameless Methadrone. The record has a strange kind of charm, and by the end you get the feeling that this guy is just a witty, honest human being, who happened to get hold of a halfsized acoustic and decided to lay down some of his wordly observations. Writing on the Wall is a little bit strange, a little bit shocking, and a lot of fun; Beans on Toast sounds like he loves what he’s doing, and hopefully someone out there loves listening to him. Joanne Southerd
Rise Up! Fire Records
6/10 Let’s get weird, through the medium of Prince inspired funk rock! This is a re-issued and remastered version of the 1998 second album from Bobby. It is a concept album, whereby the many abstract ideas come together to proximate this theme to be one of surrealism as a possible critique of American capitalism and our current herd of celebrities who ride the line between the mental fantasy world of self-centered indulgence and the inevitability of being dragged back down by the somewhat grimness of reality. I can hear a lot of Bowie, especially the Ziggy Stardust Bowie, in his erratic vocal transitions ranging from deep Space
MUSIC Odyssey to high-pitched Life on Mars?. His ability to switch through different styles whilst still managing to sound like Bobby Conn is also a skill that Bowie had. An uptempo glam rock cowbell groove with screaming guitar, oh wait, now some shredding electronica and then into some Bossa Nova with a double bass and piano. Lyric material is questionable on the song Passover including ‘What do you do if you’re a poor little Jew.’ Another track is a conversation between a woman and somebody whom I can only imagine as being an alien. So clearly it’s a strange listen, but I think the problem is that it was designed for the stage and the recorded versions may require a listener more accustomed to fantasy prog-pop. For those enthusiasts there are bonus tracks, early photos and extensive liner notes. You know who you are. Pete Large
Kele
On The Lam Wichita/Polydor
6/10 In the latest single from his acclaimed album, The Boxer, Kele takes the most successful hooks and beats from electronic music history and unleashes them on the listener. The track will undoubtedly be popular with those who were fans of the later Bloc Party records, but at times feels recycled. Yet, despite tired clichés, the single is a solid effort. James Richardson
Black Gold Shine Red Bull
4/10 Having never heard of Black Gold before, it was with an open mind that I approached their new single Shine. Its unadventurous and all too familiar pop rock sound leaves me feeling far from impressed. Lacking any depth and, whilst inoffensive, I was underwhelmed by the empty, repetitive melodies and mediocre lyrics. For fans of mediocre pop rock, Black Gold have been supporting Feeder on recent tours. Ceri Paine
The Saturdays Higher Fascination
Singles
Bobby Conn
8/10
The Saturdays have always been a pretty hit-or-miss kind of act: their tunes are either enjoyably catchy or bland and infuriating. Higher the former camp: it’s bubbly and fun and great to dance to! Other tracks on the CD single include a remix and an instrumental version, neither of which are particularly interesting. Buy the mp3 unless you’re a major fan! Bethan Cable
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MUSIC
Live LCD Soundsystem/ Hot Chip CIA November 12th Early signs weren’t good. As I stood and tried to appreciate Hot Chip’s set I had to simultaneously angle back my head so as not to suffer any blows from the chap in front. It felt far too much like a Ministry of Sound advert for my liking, a notion which was later to slowly spin, eyes-closed and one palm pointing to the sky, in time with the rising chorus. Each sequential turn sought to squeeze out every bit of excitement and enthusiasm I had been harbouring for the previous months as I consistently failed to separate these annoyances from the performances of two of my favourite bands. Snobbery, perhaps; naivety, for sure; I hadn’t been to an arena gig for years and wasn’t prepared for the depressive blank chasm that is CIA. To invoke any sort of atmosphere in that place would be quite the feat and the fact that the space was only roughly halffull, that the event started at 7.30pm and that plastic cups of
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beer were being thrown around in between songs all ensured that one was never achieved. It was a shame, because Hot Chip put on an admirably energetic performance with very little response from the crowd, even throwing in a refreshingly reworked version of Ready for the Floor. LCD Soundsystem then followed in surprisingly superstar-like fashion as an impressively grand light show saw him through his series of discopunk anthems. Overall, the evening was aptly embodied by a never-beforeheard song which the two artists performed together between their individual sets. Like the show itself, it was an enthralling prospect but failed to deliver on its weighty expectations. Simon Roach
Gallows Millenium Music Hall November 22nd As a self confessed pop lover I was slightly apprehensive about seeing Gallows. I was aware of their earlier releases and really liked that latest album, however I was slightly hesitant when it came to seeing them live; I’m not one for mosh pits and had heard their gigs were famed for them. Gallows kicked off their
set with The Riverbank which merged beautiful into the skilfully renamed Cardiff is the Reason, sending the crowd into a mayhem of admiration. The witty banter in between songs was amusing and showed how much the band respected their fans and how they’ve stuck with them through their recent split from their label. This was also evident when, during Abandon Ship, lead singer Frank Carter, jumped into the middle of the pit and spent the rest of the night performing among the crowd. As the night progressed, the pit grew wider and the antics wilder; at one point a large human pyramid was formed in the centre, whilst the pit engulfed most the room. Closing with their 2008 album’s title track, Orchestra of Wolves, Gallows proved that they were still on top form, sending the crowd into carnage. I have to admit I was pleasantly surprised by the bands energetic and engaging set and their love for crowd interaction. You spend the night moshing along, wondering what crazy thing thing Carter will suggest next. Overall, they are a band whose excellence is enhanced the more you join in. Brilliant night, brilliant band. Becky Bartlett
MUSIC
RJD2
The National
The Colossus
High Violet High Violet sees -
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Ohio
With -
James Coop
Jon Berry
gairrhyddmusic@gmail.com
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MUSIC
Oceansize Self Preserved While The Bodies Float Up Further reinforcing their position as one of Britain’s most exciting and, more importantly, ambitious bands, Self Preserved… showcases Oceansize at their most mind-bogglingly brilliant best. that made up the majority of 2007’s Frames, Self Preserved… is the band’s most accessible and, perhaps, most accomplished release to date. The concentration of unadulterated force that comprises the likes of Silent/Transparent and It’s My Tail… is beautifully juxtaposed with the understated splendour of Oscar Acceptance Speech and Pine, demonstrating not only the band’s versatility but their ability to continue making such wonderfully realised albums. Michael Brown
Before Today A groundbreaking album that maintains the origninality of avant-garde pop whilst making it accessible. Some songs are very catchy especially Round and Round which makes me smile because it’s in the face of stereotypically catchy chart music. It’s the anachronistic quality that somehow avoids pretence which makes it so on the money. ground, releasing his DIY in your basement work through any means possible. Psychadelia, rock n roll, new wave are all present but you feel it is far more sophisticated than the unfortunately named chillwave genre, like a genuine take on the 70/80’s rival. It’s this that makes it one of the albums of 2010. Peter Large
Joanna Newsom Have One On Me It is not often that you see a harp enter into popular music; however the incredibly talented Californian has managed to bring it to the forefront. piano and harp melodies, helping transport you to Newsom’s mystical world. Not an album to be taken lightly comprising of eighteen tracks, yet it displays her innate talent as a lyricist, capturing a beautiful melancholy. More polished than her about Have one on Me, making it a truly stunning listen. Emma Wilford
The Tallest Man on Earth The Wild Hunt In a year where folk music became cool again, nally caught the critics' eyes with his second LP. Dogged throughout his career by comparisons to create a remarkably polished collection of songs, riffs. An album of beautiful and deliberate contradiction, that sees itself diluted for the most part by his tender lyrics, punctuated by crisp and sophisticated playing. This nuanced sound has irresistible charm, and even the most forlorn tracks Man in the World grow up, and he doesn’t look like stopping. Guy Kelly
The Black Keys Brothers I’m going to put it out there- The Black Keys are probably one of the best things musically to come out of America in a while. Brothers is a pure testament to their talent and ever-evolving style, proving that after being together ten years this duo can still manage to make spine tingling music, this time of the blues variety. Auerbach’s voice is full of soul on this album and adds perfectly to the diverse and at times haunting songs. It is sleek and sexy whilst also managing to be raw and authentic; It’s safe to say that this year no-one did blues like The Black Keys. Emma Wilford
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MUSIC
Gorillaz Plastic Beach Plastic Beach – the latest offering from Damon Al
Deftones Diamond Eyes After founding bassist Chi Cheng was pronounced comatose in 2008, few expected Deftones to produce an album anywhere near as accomplished as what Diamond Eyes became. Nevertheless, with Sergio composed and recorded what many have hailed as their best effort yet. An unlikely mix of optimism, Dia mond Eyes is the mark of a band refocused and reinvigorated in support of their fallen comrade. See Rocket Skates, CMND/CTRL and You’ve Seen The Butcher for a taster of the sheer genius that
nitely the furthest reaching Gorillaz album so far. It boasts an impressive guest list, including Gruff Rhys, Lou Reed, and Bobby Womack, and the en vironmental theme, present throughout, adds another dimension to the album: Albarn sings of "factories far away" in the trippy, yet poignant Rhinestone Eyes. Seemingly constructed from washed up scraps and rejects from a colourful seamlessly from the hypnotic beats of Stylo to the sugar sweet crooning On Melancholy Hill. Over all, a stunningly innovative work. Rosey Brown
tion for years to come. Michael Brown
LCD Soundsystem This Is Happening fans. Joy and anticipation at a the release of the Sound of Silver but also the shock at the news that this would be their last ever album. But what an album to exit on. From the lyrically brilliant Pow Pow to the jumpy Drunk Girls, this is happening is the album of a band still in their prime and yet to faulter. But perhaps what James Murphy always intended to leave us with the best he has and nothing less. Phillip Kenny
Anthony and the Johnsons Swanlights Throughout the trills, the vacillations, the bird
Swanlights a truth of being; a warmth and a joy. A spiritual, emotional continuation of Antony and The Johnson’s previ The Crying Light, Swan lights is meditative of the natural. The colour of the album is very much a white, expressing both the fragility of the natural world, and its inherent purity. as we are invited to dance neck to neck to neck with the Swanlights
Arcade Fire The Suburbs It would be easy enough for me to praise Arcade Fire’s third album in terms of musical skill and scope, and their deft touches – a little harpsichord and western thrown in for good measure. On top vivre with songs which, if not cheery, still make me bounce a little while walking, or dance if no one is looking. This album and their exuberant performances, full of joyful ribbon twirling, are absorbed musical ego trips (I’m looking at you, Gaga). In a nutshell, this album makes me smile when I listen to it. Sophie Keeling
Rhys Tobin gairrhyddmusic@gmail.com
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Film. News.
The juggernaut that is HP7 has been capturing cinematic hearts and wallets to little surprise. Taking in over eighteen million on its opening
cultural and commercial aims, with no guesses as neglect.
Hallows is nearing the billion mark in little over two weeks, is on course to become the biggest in the series so far, and the highest gorssing cienamtic franchise of all time. It's no surpise then that rival studios are kicking themselves about it nowhate and want to be in equal measure because he has that Charizard Silver. The British Film Institute, it has been announced, are to take over the roles held bv the re-
most iconic comic actors of his generation. Star of and the Naked Gun -
EKB these two instituations could never join forces, as
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TRAILER TRASH
Red Riding Hood
(...in which we
romance and a predisposition for sweeping aerial views of the forest
Twilight
-
this dramatic retelling of Little Red Riding Hood, and the word 'dramatic' is not be understated here. In true in town (not a regular wolf, that'd be dresses and whispers sweet nothings
Twilight this too. MA
praise, muse and lambast the latest previews.)
FILM
BEST FOR...
...warming your insides. The Princess Bride (1987) Wonderful in its madness, The Princess Bride is the ultimate '80s fairytale. After her love is lost at sea, Buttercup (Robin Wright) agrees to marry Prince Humperdink. Before she is forced down the aisle she is kidnapped by a giant, a Spaniard and an incredibly short man planning on using her to start a war, before being saved by a man in black. Tones of Rob Reiner's earlier effort This Is Spinal Tap can be seen in The Princess Bride, and its lyrical wittiness was an obviWhen Harry Met Sally... With quotable lines in every single scene and aspects of it becoming pieces of cinematic furniture, it has deservedly taken the on the mantle of cult classic. If you think you're too cool for fairytales worry not, The Princess Bride being told through the huggable Peter Falk (Lt. Columbo) reading a story to his grandson. Bugger radiators, in these cold winter months you need nothing more than Andre the Giant to warm the cockles of your soul. Emily Kate Bater
...a night in with the lads.
...choosing De Niro over Pacino.
300 (2006)
Such a dilemma is only really straightfoward in this Michael
300 is about the roughest, toughest, and -most importantly- manliest bunch of warriors Ancient Greece has to offer, defending a tiny mountain pass from hordes of soldiers, ninjas and creatures that lead by a giant tyrant with a fetish for body-piercings. lads night in? Well, nothing really happens so you can dip in and out of conversation without a problem, and you’ll all still know what's going on. we’re not really sure what style 300 is an action- packed cinematic bloodbath with just enough story to back up its testosterone- induced inspiration. So if you want something to be on that big black screen while you chat and avoid diligent essay writing, stick on 300 and prepare for something awesome. (Oh, and you can all moan about how their six packs are fake anyway.) Craig McDowall
Heat (1995)
Pacino in scenes with his arch rival/kindred spirit Robert De Niro. These two will always be put in the same box, but for me De Niro will always be the better actor. In The Godfather II it was his turn as the young Vito CorAl Pacino’s Michael seemed dated and tired. Here De Niro is a master criminal, a crook so intelligent he attracts the admiration of Pacino’s police detective, who despite his esteem is determined to catch Bobby. Maybe it’s Pacino’s slightly satanic face that does it, or De Niro’s innate ability to pull off a goatee, but both command the screen. However it's Rob’s calm determination that does it for me and you can’t help but admire him for his refusal to give up. It's arguable that De Niro has lost 'it' recently while Al has maintained his ferocious impression on the cinematic psyche, but here, in that diner, it's De Niro you can't take your eyes off. Emily Kate Bater
FILM
REVIEWS
Skyline Director: Colin Strause, Greg Strause Cast: Eric Balfour, Donald Faison
4/10
-
-
-
-
watching Skyline I had no hesi-
he declared independent of the Nigerian state. He played nearly
ing to watch it).
My lack of experience in watchthat I was potentially a director’s -
as when I left. For those who ap-
es on the ‘high tech’ special effects
-
Skyline is energy in the creating process.
Hanna Fillingham
was spent watching whilst long-
clear reason as to why. ginning a potential relationship tion on these earlier scenes was -
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-
A Slice of Fela Dir: Gerard Schmidt
-
7/10
cal entitled Fela!
fore I saw Slice of Fela and afterthat I didn’t. Fela is an African
A Slice of Fela! was really to raise awareness of Fela’s leagacy and the show itself.
FILM
The screening of A Slice of Fela was followed with the personal recollections of a number of very special guests who will join Rikki Stein, Fela's long time manager, and Lemi Ghariokwu, the renowned Nigerian artist who designed Fela's album art as well as covers for Bob Marley, to share their memories of the man and his music. Needless to say there were plenty of both humorous and interesting anecdotes along with a Q&A at the end. Pete Large
has never been more apparent. Lord Voldemort's existence here goes beyond one of Harry's evilinduced migraines: he's a real character from the very beginning, commanding his minions
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part One Director: David Yates Cast: Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson, Rupert Grint
and co. to scour barren landscapes for Horcruxes instead
8/10 Descending through murky clouds and past a crumbling Warner Bros. logo, things feel surprisingly apocalyptic this time around. Indeed, as everyone prepares for the wizarding equivalent of a World War, the presence of You Know Who
with uncontrollable power. It's consequently a much scarier affair than ever before. Whilst previous chapters begun with the anticipation of boarding the Hogwarts Express and losing oneself within a whimsical castle environment, Hogwarts is noticeably missing
class. Of course, there's also a Dumbledore-shaped hole in the magical atmos, but where Voldemort embodies the omnipresence of evil, the ghostly memory of Dumbedore is a promising reminder that, against all odds, goodness might prevail. Where Harry’s friendships with Ron and Hermione are pushed the limit, the young stars’ acting ability is simultaneously put to the test. Unfortunately there are several moments where they miss the mark. Daniel Radcliffe comes across too gawky and angst-ridden for a real hero; Emma Watson is over-dramatic
is some scenes, lack-lustre in others. Rupert Grint, however, is perfect for the part of Ron Weasley – believable in his embodiment of the character's one’s imagining of Ron strayed far from this performance. Although David Yates also rector seems to have only just emerged from the depths of Rowling’s story. Special effects which previously saturated the saga are used with restraint, making them all the more impressive in climactic sequences. Most memorably, an enchanting Burton-esque animation midcreative energy and stylistically echoes the mythical content of the story. For those of us whose childhood 'the boy who lived', seeing that ing through the sky has always been a spine-tingling cinematic experience. This time around, though, it was all the more poignant; this is the beginning of the end for J.K. Rowling's world of witchcraft and wizardry - on the big screen at least. Matt Ayres
film@gairrhydd.com
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TwentyTen Film
A 'Year in Review' is always a difficult task to comprehend. A year may not seem like a long time in reality, but when you have to drag your hazy mind past the summer, past exams and into the first fledgling months of the year it’s easy to become lackadaisical and neglectful. Every year in cinema is a landmark one for one reason or another, but it seems 2010 marked a departure in numerous ways. With 2009 being the year of 3D, it was assumed that a continuation of that medium would be inevitable this year. Arguably this hasn’t been the case, even if many of the major blockbusters were in 3D. Alice in Wonderland, Clash of the Titans, Shrek Forever After, and even Toy Story 3, all took advantage of supposed new technology but failed to use it in an advantageous way. Many commented that TS3 was far more immersive in 2D, and ultimately unnecessary. You’d think that in a year following on from an economic downturn us poor masses would all be desperate for a bit of romantic escapism. Hollywood seemed to think this too, and so churned out an amount of rom-com dross unprecedented in any other year; Leap Year, Killers, The Ugly Truth, Valentine’s Day, When In Rome and Dear John all satiated our appetites for love and such delights bringing the genre to its knees in the mean time. Big names and a predictable script do not a popular film make, and it seems Hollywood finally learnt that lesson. No more so than in the bloated beast that was SATC2...the less of that the better. Edgar Wright took the leap and made the first
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film that was a comic book film, rather than just being a film based on a comic book. While Scott Pilgrim vs. The World was a cult success it sadly wasn’t a commercial one. Kick Ass pushed the comic book genre to its outer limits, shaping too the careers of young up -and- coming talent. Inevitably, however, the year was shaped by its blockbusters, but these even seemed to take on a different shape. Christopher Nolan challenged us to engage our brains when watching a film wider in scope and ambition than almost anything else, not just this year but in the last decade. Mind fuckery was however curtailed with the swan song of arguably the finest trilogy ever made, seemingly defining the year with its bittersweet nostalgia. While 2010 may have in many aspects been a vintage year for filmmakers and critics alike, it seems that many of its stand out achievements lie not in the films themselves but in what they pioneered. Bringing animation to the forefront and inspiring us to expect more from our cinematic experiences, moviegoers this year have been treated with more respect and intelligence than ever before – if 2010 has taught us anything, we’ve learnt to demand and expect more – films can no longer afford to be average in a landscape where only the most impressive have a hope of leaving an indelible mark. EKB
The high school comedy genre is one that has taken a good beating in recent years – nightmares like High School Musical and Bring It On have
Easy A
10 Things I Hate Mean Girls covered in Zombieland and
seemingly forever been the benchmark against
school comedy since Mean Girls Becca Eustis
and
of
Toy Story mation – standing its ground against a league of
before
Toy Story 3
Matt Ayres
How to Train Your Dragon
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memorable gems (Shrek
-
-
the adorable ‘Toothless’ the dragon are delightful
film@gairrhydd.com
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Inception Christopher Nolan's Inception was as externally paradoxial as the interlocking intracies and connear universal acclaim, a small portion of its public were either put off by the inital inpenetrable nature of the plot, while some have suggested it's nately, as I hope time will prove, Inception strays close to both of these accusations being true with-
the engaging characters and danger of The Dark Knight, and is primarily a cinematic joyride, repeated viewings reveal the dark (if somewhat pretentious) psychology of dreams and reality, testimony to Nolan that once one understands the dream-within-a-dream structure and has deconstructed the metaphysical heist at its core, there is still something about Cobb's psychological confu-
original ambition for a mainstream blockbuster (the ice dream could be taken out of a handful of
2001 may have been full of more meaning,
white knuckle ride that is impossible to forget and will hopefully inspire more engaging blockbusters
along the way making the plunge into complexity an essential component of some mindblowing
Kick-Ass Kick Ass on a loop in a small window on my character of all time, with possibly the best line of the whole year, "dude, that is one gay looking taser", unbelievable moves and she even says the most naughty of swear words with an air of Kick Ass is gritty, funny,
features a slick not-so-cameo from Nicholas Cage, in an unusally smart choice by his otherwise trigger happy agent, dominating the screen with his
Craig McDowall
Daybreakers The Town Daybreakers
ers Gone Baby Gone.
George Carpenter
Morten Wright
The Team Editor Dom Kehat
Executive Editor Sarah Powell
Sub Editor Matt Wright
Arts Katie Haylock and Kirsty Allen
Books Greg Rees
Fashion Gwennan Rees and Lucy Trevallion
Features Jack Doran, Claire Dibben and Jenny Pearce
LGBT+ Anna Siemiaczko and Kate Boddington
Film Emily Kate Bater
Food Gav Jewkes, Jasmine Joynson and Melissa Parry
Music Michael Brown, Emma Wilford, Jon Berry and Simon Roach
Photos Travel Clare Baranowski and Simone Miche
Proof Reader Laura Amey