Elton John, Sven Vath, Duke Dumont, Decibel, Martin Solveig, Tom & Serg, The Spin and more! MUSIC • PEOPLE • LIFE
TALAL BUDEBS Publisher CHARL CHAKA Managing Partner charlchaka@infusion.ae FRAK FU Sales/marketing sales@infusion.ae ANDY BUCHAN Editor andy@infusion.ae PAULA MANGUEIRA Design design@infusion.ae SONIA IGNACIO Operations operations@infusion.ae
Yet again, Sole DXB proved that this city has soul in abundance, with some of the coolest kids out for 48 hours of sneaker heaven and some brilliant live music (special shout out to Skepta!). We’re loving the sound of Qs Bar and Lounge at Palazzo Versace – set up by Quincy Jones (who’s just been nominated for a casual 79th Grammy Awards), it promises to be a stand out live music venue in the city with Swedish group Dirty Loops playing on December 9. Coldplay on Yas Island for New Year’s Eve? That’s our plans sorted then, with a quick stop in at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE on the way back.
CONTRIBUTORS: Stephen Day, Neil Henderson, Sarah Abel V, Grace Bright, Paul Walker
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Boring – and we mean watching someone else watching paint dry boring – tech-house sets that build and build to… nothing. Stop trying to be cool and play some tunes. 2016. A truly awful, awful year. Surely nothing bad can happen in the remaining 4 weeks?! DJs pimping themselves out for free so they could say they’ve ‘played at the F1’ on their biography. Yeah, sure – playing a blow up dinghy in the far corner of the marina at 2pm on the Thursday is a proper prime time slot…
Say What? OLD JOKES HOME
I tried to make a joke about the periodic table But the best ones Argon. OLD JOKES HOME 2
I went to the Doctors with hearing problems. He said, ‘Can you describe the symptoms?’ I said ‘Homer’s a fat bloke and Marge has blue hair’ WOULD THE REAL CARL COX PLEASE STAND UP…
Leeds amateur Rugby League team, The Queens, went on a teambonding break to Ibiza. They were queuing for Manumission when one of their forwards was mistaken for DJ Carl Cox. Ten minutes later they were all in the VIP area drinking free Champagne. By 3am the group was still in the VIP lounge. Staff came over to ask 'Carl' to DJ, saying "Look lads, you've done in a few grand of free booze... come on Carl, give us half an hour". Introduced as "special guest Carl Cox", the rugby player went up to the decks, turned every dial he could see up to the maximum and started shouting "We are Queens. We are Queens." It was only at this point that the Manumission team started to wonder if perhaps this wasn't Carl Cox after all...
WE LOVE Little Black Door
A nightlife spot in Dubai that proudly proclaims “no Magnums or sparklers allowed” will always grab our attention. More sophisticated lounge than club, it wouldn’t look out of place in the trendiest of New York / London districts, which is testament to owner Yasin Saleh’s eye for style. The huge copper bar is a bold statement that oozes cool and there are other great features like the privacy tables, hidden in little nooks throughout the venue. With a host of talented bar-staff, knocking up an array of signature cocktails, and fantastic bar food like beef tenderloin sliders and crisp, flatbread pizzas, you’re not going home hungry or thirsty. Weekends at LBD focus on soulful and tribal house, led by French DJs and producers Stephane Karl & Karl Jefferson and on a Sunday, the lights are dimmed for an evening of Jazz and Soul with Layla Kardan and her team of musicians – expect a packed night full of happy faces, dancing and singing along. Tuesdays are navigated by DJ B-Luv, who hosts an old-school urban music night. Little Black Door strips back on the pretention that a lot of clubs seem to pride themselves upon and most importantly, does the basics right, making thoroughly enjoyable all-round experiences throughout the week for all musical tastes. Little Black Door, Conrad Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road, knocktoenter.com
What we did
NIGHT VIBES FEAT. TERRY FRANCIS @ TAMANYA TERRACE
With the temporary closure of Fabric in London, the Night Vibes crew stepped up to the mark and brought one of Fabric’s longest serving residents back to the UAE. A founding father of London’s house scene, Terry Francis’ style of tech house and house is a joy to listen and was arguably even better outside of Fabric. Maga and Megadon Betamax excellently laid the groundwork and nicely warmed up the crowd, getting them into the feel and vibe of the night before Terry arrived. The committed and loyal Night Vibes crowd were on the dance floor in full force reacting beautifully to Terry when he dropped tunes like Alix Alvarez ‘Fayall’ and Dark City ‘Black Acid’. Night vibes offers a different type of vibe in Dubai: dancing under the stars you could be in an outdoor party in a cool capital in Europe. Words by Paul Walker
SENSATION @ BAB AL SHAMS
When faraway Bab Al Shams was announced as this year’s Sensation venue, we figured that the all-white punters would turn up in the masses no matter where this massive EDM gig was held, but little did we expect the crowd to have increased to 20,000! Even a 45 minute walk from the car park to the camp couldn’t dampen our spirits as the sheer energy, electric sounds, fireworks, light and laser show and ginormous stage right in the middle made this feel like the biggest show on earth. The line-up, including Mr. White, Sem Thomasson, Sunnery James & Ryan Marciano to Afrojack, made it hard to choose whose energy the crowd gravitated to – they all seemed to have the ‘ocean of white’ choreographed in heart-thumping manic unison. And if not down on the dancefloor, the frenzy was spread all through the rest of the colosseum styled amphitheatre making it one huge party ‘on all levels’! An event to remember (but a long cab ride home to forget). Words by Sarah Abel V
GROOVE ON THE GRASS @ EMIRATES GOLF COURSE
So the UK voted out of Europe before the summer break, but luckily for us the Groove On The Grass crew brought a stellar continental line up for their 2nd mini festival since August. We missed the season opening as we were away, so the new production was a pleasant surprise to us. The sprawling greenery, market place stalls and main stage remain, but it’s all a little more enclosed and far more intimate for the better. We were treated to an early set from local boy Sam Farsio, a live set from Paul Josef before Irishman Mano Le Tough kicked the crowd up a gear. We danced, we swayed and the crowds arrived in time for Polish techno queen Magda to bring back that clicky, rolling sound I love. To be honest there was so much outside we didn’t even pop our head into the other stage, but I’m sure German legend DJ Hell was having a blast, like he did on his last visit. 2 down, 1 to go before year end, I wonder what other techno treats are in store. Words by Stephen Day
BE @ DIMC
Minimalist. Techno. Grooves. Beachy. Moonlight. Twinkly-lights. Private party. Sand. Beachball. Barefeet. Grooves. Good times. Grooves. Have I said grooves already? Apologies, but ‘minimalist’ got the better of my vocabulary too. With sand between our toes, the only light that reached the dancefloor was from the DJ’s decks and some twinkly-lights that were strung around added to the dreaminess. Cabanne drew nearly the entire dancefloor right up to his decks like a moth to a flame. The transition to Matthew Styles and Dana Ruh kept the chilled tempo going through the course of the cool moonlit night. A brilliant night from the Analog Room team. Words by Sarah Abel V
PURE SKY LOUNGE 3RD BIRTHDAY
GET READY FOR THE PURGE
There’s a new Monday night in town looking to fill the hole left by Secret Circle, as The Purge launches weekly Monday December 5 at Cymatics at the H Hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road. With a deep house and underground soundtrack helmed by resident Sam Farsio (pictured) and guests including Jixo & Danz (Dec 12), the night promises to make Monday one of the hottest tickets in town again.
YASMINE HAMDAN PLAYS LIVE
The Vibe Series, best known for their rooftop house parties at Tamanya Terrace, are bringing over Middle East singer Yasmine Hamdan. Called the ‘Bedouin Lady Gaga’ by Rolling Stone, the Lebanese singer now based in Paris sings in Arabic but has a strong indie alternative ethic which has seen her compared with PJ Harvey. Advance tickets for the Wednesday December 7 show at the Music Room are AED220, with tickets AED250 on the door.
DECIBEL’S LAST PARTY OF 2016
You know why we love homegrown parties like Decibel? Because they’re made with love, by clubbers who know what works in the region and they put on parties because they love the thrill those 6 hours of pumping dance music provide. Decibel have quickly become one of our favourite thanks to their resolute dedication to bringing the finest underground talent to the region, as Spanish DJ Fatima Hajji becomes their last guest of the year on December 8 at ON42. With Arabic blood in her veins, she’s known for her clean techno sound and is one of the rising Iberican talents, having played Tomorrowland, Tresor, Womad and more.
DUKE DUMONT PLAYS NASIMI
Bursting onto the scene several years ago with several slices of highly crafted pop house – including the still ace ‘Need U (100%)’ – Duke Dumont has continued his ascent, releasing on Defected and his own Blasé Boys Club imprint. Catch him in action at Nasimi on Thursday Decemer 8.
RAVELATIONS RETURN
Long-running Psy-trance night Ravelations take over The Music Room once again on Thursday December 8 with Earthling on headline duties. Part of the scene since the early 90s, he’s released over 6 albums and is now part of the Zero1 record label.
JESS GLYNNE, NARCY AND MORE FOR FREE AT D3!
Dubai’s creative community unites again for a 3 day celebration of music, food, design, fashion, art and more from December 8-10 at the Dubai Design District behind Dubai Mall. Thursday December 8 is hosted by Red Bull, with Lebanese rock stars The Wanton Bishops joined by hip hop Arab hip hop legend Narcy, while Friday sees eclectic DJ Benji B and UK pop singer Jess Glynne take to the stage, with Lebanese singer Myriam Fares headlining on Saturday with support from Abri & The Funk Radius. Entry is free every day, for the full line up and more info head to www.meetd3.com.
PLUS MINUS BRING OUT HECTOR COUTO
A prolific tech-house producer signed to Hot Creations and Get Physical, Hector Couto plays for Plus Minus at their penultimate party of 2016. Taking place at ON42 on Friday December 9, expect nothing but the finest house and techno from the man who opened for Marco Carola this summer at Music:On at Amnesia. Support comes from homegrown techno legend Adam Rahman, with tickets AED100 in advance.
BONJOUR MARTIN SOLVEIG!
Billionaire Mansion is getting in on the big DJ bookings as they’ve signed up Parisian spinner Martin Solveig to play on Friday December 9. The Madonna collaborator hit the big time in 2010 with his smash ‘Hello’ with Dragonette, but has been releasing poptinged house music since as far back as 2002.
MATTHIAS TANZMANN AND FRIENDS TAKE OVER BLUE MARLIN
French house and techno DJ Tanzmann, a sure-fire UAE favourite after several stellar sets, is back at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE on Friday December 9 joined by none other than Get Physical co-founder DJ T and the Luna City Express duo. Big big big!
HOUSE OF AFRIKA RETURNS!
Ja bru! After searching for a new home for several months, we can happily announce that House of Afrika is back and taking over Velocity at the JW Marriott on Thursday December 8. And we have previous guest DJ Shimza returning on headline duties, bringing more infectious deep house, afro and tribal grooves with him alongside DeCaf and Charl Chaka. Entry is free via guestlist (infusionmag.up4what.com/20027), or AED100 with doors open from 9pm.
ELTON JOHN MAKES DUBAI DEBUT
If you were to challenge us to put on the perfect pre-Christmas gig, then Elton John would be pretty much it. A true legend of a musician, he’s been knocking out pop anthems since the swinging 60s with over 30 albums including 10 during the 70s, notably Goodbye Yellow Brick Road which included ‘Candle In The Wind’ and ‘Benny and The Jets’. He’s sold over 300 million albums and played over 4,000 shows making him one of the most successful artists in history. Ever. He plays with his full live band on Thursday December 15 at the Autism Rocks Arena, with tickets starting from AED395. Doors open at 6pm and the show starts at 9.30pm.
WHITE NOISE WITH DANNIC
EDM DJ Dannic is back once again at his spiritual Dubai home as he plays White Dubai on Thursday December 15. Playing the club’s new White Noise party, he’ll be bringing plenty of dancefloor ammunition from his newly created Fonk label.
SVEN VÄTH PLAYS PROVOCATEUR
You wait years for a Sven Väth show, and then you can’t keep him away – not that anyone is complaining in the slightest. One of the most charismatic men in dance music, and one of the best techno DJs for over a decade, he’s also the driving force behind the Cocoon brand. You can catch him on action at Provocateur’s Funktion 1 soundsystem on Friday December 16.
ALL DAY I DREAM MAKES DUBAI DEBUT
The brainchild of DJ and producer Lee Burridge, his All Day I Dream party heads to Dubai for a series of Saturday parties taking place at the Arabian Ranches Golf Course, with the first event on Saturday December 17. Started in 2011 in Brooklyn, the party has since spread to London, Moscow, Berlin and Beirut with Lee Burridge joined by Lost Desert and DXB DJ Hoolz on deck duty. The party runs from 1-10pm, with tickets from AED180.
Musical collaboration by DJ Tiki and percussionists along with dance performances. AED 650 inclusive of food and selected house beverages AED 950 inclusive of food and selected premium beverages with priority creekside tables For reservations, please contact +971 4 205 4586 or +971 4 205 4587, email festive@dubaigolf.com or visit dubaigolf.com.
5 MINUTES WITH…
SAM FELDT Rising Dutch DJ Sam Feldt takes to the Zero Gravity stage on December 9 for their One Big Friday party. We caught up with the Robin S remixer to find out more…
My first big break was… Signing to Spinnin around 2 and a half years ago, and hearing they really liked the stuff I was producing! The best piece of advice I've received was… Find your own sound and stick to it, instead of trying to make the next big hit or imitating others. My dance music hero is… Don Diablo, he has his stuff together so well. My biggest gig to date is… Coachella, it was amazing! I played both weekends with a live set including a sax player and 2 singers. It was only 50 minutes each but I enjoyed every single second of it. How did you celebrate hitting over 80 million streams? And what does that number feel like? We went out to a shot bar in Amsterdam with the whole team and got really drunk, basically. This season in Ibiza was… Even better than the last one! I did a lot of cool shows including Amnesia for the first time, I loved every single show! One thing you might not know about me is… I used to be a big fan of dinosaurs and even worked in a museum as a guide when I was around 13 years old. When did you first start making music? Around age 12, I think I first downloaded FL Studio. I really got into it around 17 though. And when was your first DJ gig? It was in my hometown Boxtel, I got paid 50 bucks and had to play for 5 hours for a bunch of kids aged 12-16. My gig in Dubai will be… A special one, I'm bringing my sax player to the show as well and I think it will fit the venue perfectly. See you there! One Big Friday feat. Sam Feldt, Zero Gravity, Midday3am, free before 6pm, AED150 after.
MOMENTUM ALBUM TOUR DECEMBER
09 2016
DJ T. LUNA CITY EXPRESS
MACEO PLEX
TIMELINE American DJ Eric Estornel is better known as the club conquering DJ Maceo Plex and Maetrik. But ahead of his December 16 headlining slot at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE, Infusion takes a deeper look at his creative timeline‌
2010
Maceo launches his own label, Ellum, with Seth Troxler, Art Department, Danny Daze and SubbAn among the early contributors.
2011
The breakthrough year, as under the Maetrik and Maceo Plex monikers, he releases across Cocoon, Mothership and Crosstown Rebels, while also turning in remixes for Morcheeba, John Digweed and Max Cooper.
2011
Releases ‘Falling,’ a heavenly slice of deep house music that heavily sampled Cheri’s ‘Small Town Lover.’
2011
2013
His remix of Gus Gus’ ‘Crossfade’ dominates dancefloors across the world, becoming a dance music anthem.
He makes it into the Resident Advisor Top 100 artists for the first time ever as he smashes in at number 5 on the back of his breakthrough album Life Index. Later reaches Number 2 in 2015.
2014
Appears on the cover of Mixmag for the first time, closing out another big year for the American DJ with Cuban heritage.
2014
Maceo tops the opening party line up at Amnesia, having impressed at the closing party the previous year.
2015
2016
Releases new album, the 7 track Journey to Solar, on his on-point label Ellum, a prelude to 2017’s album Solar which is said to be more broken beat/ electronica.
‘Vibe Your Love,’ one of his biggest hits, is included on Crosstown Rebels 10 Year Compilation, kicking off the 3rd CD.
Breaks the record for the most DJ sets played in a day when he plays 10 different sets across Ibiza including next to Es Vedra, a yacht and finally at Elephant Ibiza.
2016
Maceo Plex plays Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE, Friday December 16, facebook.com/BMIUAE bluemarlinibiza-uae.com
DJ SHIMZA SUPPORT DJS
CHARL CHAKA DECAF THU 8TH DEC. JW MARRIOTT MARQUIS FREE ENTRY BY GUESTLIST 100 AED AT DOOR RSVP@INFUSION.AE
HOUSEofAFRIKA
HOUSE_of_AFRIKA
ON THE RADAR ARMIN VAN BUUREN DECEMBER 29 - WHITE DUBAI
JORIS VOORN
LAIDBACK LUKE
DECEMBER 31 - BARASTI
AXWELL & INGROSSO
DECEMBER 30 - BLUE MARLIN IBIZA UAE
DECEMBER 31 - MEYDAN RACECOURSE
PLUS MINUS FEAT. DAVID AUGUST DECEMBER 30 - MEDIA ONE CAR PARK
ROGER SANCHEZ
STACEY PULLEN
DECEMBER 31 - BLUE MARLIN IBIZA UAE
DECEMBER 31 - Q43
COLDPLAY
DECEMBER 31 - DU ARENA, YAS ISLAND
ON THE RADAR CHASE & STATUS
DECEMBER 31 - ZERO GRAVITY
DJ THREE
EELKE KLEIJN FEBRUARY 3 - 0N42
JOSH BUTLER
JANUARY 6 - EL CHIRINGUITO
FEBRUARY 4 - ZERO GRAVITY
ROBERT BABICZ
DECIBEL FEAT. ALBERTO RUIZ
JANUARY 20 - ON42
REDFEST FEAT. CHRIS BROWN FEBRUARY 2-3 - MEDIA CITY
FEBRUARY 9 - ON42
GUNS’N’ROSES
MARCH 3 - AUTISM ROCKS ARENA
MUSIC THAT
MATTERS ZOH – FLUTE LUV
Hollaphonic remixer and recent BBC Radio 1 guest Zoh turns in this trap inspired number with crunching 808s and some seriously deep bass. soundcloud.com/zohsound/flute-luv-zoh
The Asia Asia resident DJ drops a 3 hour deep house mix, with tracks from Moe Turk, Jako Diaz, Deepjack and Juloboy. soundcloud.com/ed_wise/dubai-winter-2016 SALAH - DEEP HOUSE TORONTO PODCAST
Salah again delivers a leftfield, melodic and entrancing mix that sprawls over nearly 3 hours and covers minimal, techno and house. soundcloud.com/deephousetoronto/dhtpodcast-06-salah-sadeq DANNY DARKO - TIME WILL TELL (WILL HOYEK REMIX)
The XL resident delivers with this subtle house remix of Danny Darko’s 2014 track available as a free download. soundcloud.com/willhoyek/time-will-tell-willhoyek-remix
Send tracks/edits/remixes to: andy@infusion.ae
ED WISE – WINTER 2016
ELAOUAD – FUNK/SOUL MIX
An Infusion favourite, Elaouad drops a timeless funk, soul and disco mix that includes soulful bangers from Marvin Gaye, James Brown, Mtume and more mixcloud.com/Elaouad/
DEEP HERTZ – HOT SHOT
After a studio break, Deep Hertz is back doing what he does best – glowing, deep house music, this time turning in a 2 track EP for Miami label Manyoma Records. soundcloud.com/manyomarecords/sets/hotshot ESTHER EDEN & SHAUN WARNER – HERE WE GO
Infectious, pop-dance track from rising star Esther Eden with Shaun Warner (ex Hed Kandi DJ) on fine production form ahead of his debut album early next year. youtube.com/watch?v=8N3nz9rDfaM MAKS – REVOLVER PODCAST
Vinyl only dub techno and minimal set recorded live in Lebanon, with bumping cuts from Priku and Sonodab making the selection . soundcloud.com/projectrevolver/revolverpodcasts-maks-episode-14 BOOGIE BOX PODCAST – ADAM RAHMAN
Local legend and Warped mainman Adam Rahman drops an hour long guest mix for Abu Dhabi party Boogie Box – high class techno from first beat to last. soundcloud.com/boogieboxuae/boogie-boxpodcast-003-adam-rahman-november-2016
Soundstage VANDALYE
New Stereo Arcade resident band Vandalye talk us through their indie-folk sound and hitting the number one spot on iTunes
My first musical influence... Scott: Bloc Party. Lucas: Simon and Garfunkel.
Last pop star I liked?
Scott and Thomas: The 1975. Lucas: MJ.
Our sound is described as… All: Mumford & Sons / Bon Iver.
Best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
Scott: Always keep writing. Lucas: The 10,000 hours rule. Thomas: During your 20s, if you are not nervous/get that butterfly feeling at least 2 times a week, you are doing something wrong.
Musical guilty pleasure?
Scott: Busted. Lucas: The Titanic soundtrack.
Lamest claim to fame? All: Our latest claim to fame? Debut EP hit number one on iTunes.
When I make it the one thing I want on my rider is... Scott: A Gretch Chet Atkins Tennessee Rose 1968. Lucas: A 1933 Duolin resonator. Thomas: A custom-made Fender Tele.
Musical motto?
Scott: Always please myself first. Lucas: Work hard, never rely on talent. Thomas: Create a new sound and have balls.
Best lyrics of all time?
Scott: “If lust and despair are two bullets In the same gun, then we’ve been playing Russian roulette for far too long.” Lucas: “All in all you’re just another brick in the wall.” Thomas: “Put the rope around my neck, they hung me up so high, the last words I heard them say, it won’t be long now before you die poor boy, I’ve been all around this world.” soundcloud.com/vandalye
DJ BOOTH: PAUL JOSEF
Recently seen killing it on the Groove on the Grass main stage, this issue we catch up with Paul Josef whose 100% live sets are quickly gaining fans across the region
One thing you might not know about me is... Maybe two things, 1. I am an Electronics and Telecommunications Engineer 2. I am professionally trained In 5 different musical instruments. My worst ever job was… I do not really do anything that I completely hate. So I guess I never really had a ‘worst ever job.’ My favorite ever record is... Anything that inspires me becomes my most favorite track all of sudden and It keeps changing. Maybe ‘Discopolis’. I think I was 15-16 years old when this track was released and at that age, I always used to fantasize about dropping this track in front of thousands of people. I still live that memory whenever I drop this track. DJing is much like... Recharging. To live and deal with the rest of the world’s happenings. Dubai’s clubbing scene is... Young and confused, but promising! Wait till 2020, I am optimistic. I’m really proud of... My live set, it took me almost 3 years to build it. What track could you drop in every set? ‘The Tunnel’ Ritche Hawtin. Even after 10 years of release, this track still inspires me every time I hear it. I can’t live without... Headphones. One stop solution to switch off the world, change moods and time travel. What is your guiltiest pleasure? Psy-Trance. If I could go back-to-back with any other DJ it would be... Maceo Plex and Mohammed Maks. Going B2B with Maks is every kid’s dream. I’m not a politician but… I can smile and nod while fantasizing about punching the other person in the throat. I think it’s a much-needed skill. soundcloud.com/pauljosefofficial/
Open Bar 275AED 2pm - 6pm
DECEMBER LINEUP Presents:
POOL PARTY BY DAY @ 02/12/2016
Lucy Stone Ilona Maras
09/12/2016
Lucy Stone Miss P.M
23/12/2016
Miss P.M Ilona Maras
WET DECK // W HOTEL // AL HABTOOR CITY. Every Friday from 2pm till late. DRESS CODE: Swim // dance // do both. RESERVATIONS: +971 (0)52 137 0817 GUESTLIST: guestlist@audiotonic.net
29/12/2016
Miss P.M Tobie Allen
ELEMENTS / DUBAI
DECEMBER LINEUP NIGHTSWIM @ 02/12/2016
09/12/2016
Presents:
Wisqo
Jason Dodds Russ Cooper
Tobie Allen Wisqo
23/12/2016
30/12/2016
Lucy Stone Ilona Maras
Lucy Stone Miss PM
Miss PM Ilona Maras
Miss PM
WET DECK // W HOTEL // AL HABTOOR CITY. Every Friday from 2pm till late. DRESS CODE: Swim // dance // do both. RESERVATIONS: +971 (0)52 137 0817 GUESTLIST: guestlist@audiotonic.net
Wisqo Tobie Allen
THE SPIN DUBAI, DECEMBER 2016
PAGE 217
ISSUE 50
DUBAI OFFICIALLY HOME TO MOST NO.1/BIGGEST/BEST CLUBS IN THE WORLD
In an unprecedented move, the Guinness Book of World Records has recognized that Dubai has over a dozen clubs all claiming to be the first, biggest and best in the world. A company spokesman, Mr Maid Uph, confirmed that they had officially recognized 14 clubs that all claimed to be either the biggest or the best. He was also dealing with over 100 claims from clubs and promoters that all claimed to be the first to bring a certain DJ or club brand to the region. ‘We’ve been extremely busy in the UAE,’ confirmed Mr Maid Uph. ‘But I couldn’t help but think that if people actually used the internet and Googled, we’d actually be out of a job here. Still, it’s easy money for us, so I’m not complaining.’ In a new twist, DJs in the region are now claiming various firsts in the region, including first DJ to smoke shisha, drink Red Bull and read Infusion while DJing, while DJ Cowboy is allegedly the first DJ to round up a herd of cattle while creating his fabled Megamix. *These stories are not true, this is not a real newspaper. This is a parody/fiction/ satire/joke. The Spin is not intended, in any way whatsoever, to be taken as factual.
Festive Celebrations
at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai. Elevate your festivities to a new height at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai, your ultimate dining destination. FESTIVE MARKET AND EXCITING MENUS MERRY FAMILY CELEBRATIONS AFTERNOON TEA IN A LIFE-SIZE GINGERBREAD HOUSE TURKEY TAKEAWAY NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTIES Indulge in award-winning cuisine this Festive Season one dish at a time. For more information, call +971 4 414 3000 or visit jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T + 971 4 414 0000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | @JWDubaiMarquis | jwmarriottmarquisdubai
What we Ate SATURDAY BRUNCH @ BLUE MARLIN IBIZA UAE
The smooth synergy of authentic live music, plush white sofas and soft sand made for a light, hedonistic afternoon. And one priced at just Dhs295. Despite the first serving being plentiful, all dishes are bottomless and evolve with each week’s theme. Our Cuban cuisine was melt-in-your-mouth delicious, with a perfect balance of light bites and heavier plates for those requiring something stodgier; mini sandwiches, tender beef skewers and spicy chicken croquettes were washed down with a sweet mojito. Pudding was as buttery as the leads singer’s vocals, banana cinnamon crumble and fresh watermelon; we can only compare the afternoon to watching the gelato drizzle softly under the warm winter sun. This is not Dubai’s typical brunch scene where drinks flow almost too freely: the staff operate with a sophisticated fluidity that makes you feel as if you’re part of the decor; expect a laid-back approach to service that compliments its easygoing vibes and refined ethos. If you’re looking to break away from hectic Dubai life (and with its location, you do just that), venture down to Blue Marlin and see the weekend out in style. Words by Grace Bright
Celebrate in the sky! Dubai’s best fireworks views
Christmas Brunch 25th December 5:30pm-9pm From 375 AED per person
NYE Evening Brunch 31st December 9pm-midnight From 745 AED per person
NYE Party on the Palm Terrace 31st December 9pm-midnight From 495 AED per person
VIP Tables available upon reservations. Please contact us for package details or group inquiries.
Hilton Dubai The Walk | Bahar | JBR 04 374 7888 | pureskylounge@hilton.com | pureskylounge
The
RECOVERY
Tom & Serg
Andy Buchan soothes the pain of the night before with some of the best coffee in the city at one of the city’s best cafés
Approx cost for 2: AED150 for 2 with coffees Licensed? No Highlight of the meal? Tiramisu waffles. Yes, you read that right. It’s fair to say that Tom & Serg’s arrival in 2011 lit up the culinary scene in Dubai. An independent venue that put its faith in high quality food, stripped back interiors and – crucially – chanelling into the hipster wave that was slowly enveloping the UAE, it quickly became the hot spot in town, with queues out the door and round the corner into Al Quoz. So, to the coffee – a morning after must. It’s amazing, rich, smooth, velvety and with a knockout punch. But it’s delivered at a lukewarm temperature, ensuring the beans aren’t burnt and you get the most out of the flavours. So if you’re looking for a coruscating hot drink to wipe away the sins of the night before – and that lingering tequila taste – you’ll have to look elsewhere. Like the Tiramisu waffles. A four way flavour romp, the stack of waffles are layered with Tiramisu mousse, choco chips biscuit crumbs, maple syrup and berries. Sweet, crunchy and juicy, it’ll banish your post-booze blues in an instant. Equally adventurous – but a less diabetic option – is their Turkish eggs. Poached eggs sit atop toasted sourdough, almond dukkha butter, smoked chilli flakes and sumac yoghurt with confit peppers and cherry tomatoes. Intense and packed full of contrasting flavours and textures, your mind will be too busy processing the fun in your mouth to worry about last night’s encroaching hangover. With breakfast options available throughout the day and lunch served from 11.30, the menu is super flexible and fairly priced – eggs and toast is just AED28 while the Tom & Serg burger is AED45. This is one hipster institution that shows no sign of ageing, as relevant today as it was 5 years ago. tomandserg.com
Food News THE BURGER KHALIFA IS BACK!
If, like you, that headline and image has you salivating heavily, then head down to the Firebird Diner at the Four Seasons DIFC to try out their double stacked burger including lobster tail, cheese, truffle aioli, foie gras and priced at AED495. That’s one skyscraper we don’t mind climbing. BEACHSIDE PERUVIAN RESTAURANT AJI LAUNCHES
The Palm is bustling at the moment thanks to the launch of Club Vista Mare, bringing with it the already ace Tap House and Breeze beach club. They’ve now launched their Nikkei-style restaurant Aji which serves up Peruvian flavours with Japanese precision, an intriguing and heady mix. With an on-point bar and terrace, this should quickly become a new hot joint in town, check out the next issue for our full review.
Jarlath Regan
Wayne Deakin
Mon 5 Dec Tue 6 Dec Wed 7 Dec Thu 8 Dec Fri 9 Dec Ticket AED 140 / QR 140. Over 21’s Only
Buy your tickets now !
Ian Stone
www.thelaughterfactory.com call : +971 50 8786 728
COOLSTUFF we want
Nintendo Switch
Bravo Nintendo, bravo. Their 3 minute video unveiling their new console, the Switch, went viral quicker than you could say SARS. And rightly so, for the idea behind it is staggeringly simple and ace. A play at home console, the Switch is also a portable tabletstyle system that can come with you on your commute, while you’re eating dinner or instead of reading Infusion Magazine when you’re performing your ablutions. So start that game of Zelda at home, and then continue it during your day. When the two hand held controls are attached to the console, it’s a portable all in one system. When you take the hand held controls off and it’s plugged into your TV or resting on its tripod leg, you then have two mini controllers which you can play remotely with. And you can even fit them to another unit to create the more typical controller. And – and this is a big and for gaming geeks – the Switch comes with enough hardware to showcase sprawling, pixel-heavy games like The Elder Scrolls V: Skyrim. $299, available March 2017
JUST FOR
AIR JORDAN 6 PINNACLE METALLIC GOLD/WHITE
It seems fitting after another excellent Sole DXB that we feature a true trainer classic this issue seemingly custom-designed for the City of Gold. These stunning Metallic Gold sneakers are part of the Air Jordan Pinnacle line up and are inspired by 25 years of heritage, with white detailing and an icy translucent outsole. They’re literally jumping off the shelves, so get in quick.
Gadgets HARDWIRED…TO SELFDESTRUCT BY METALLICA
Discover the legendary heavymetal band’s latest studio album which has already secured the No.1 spot in over 57 countries. PROPEL STAR WARS BATTLE QUADS
Pilot your favorite Star Wars ships at speeds above 35MPH and engage friends and family in exciting multiplayer laser battles.
BABEL ALCHEMY GROOMING KIT
This is the kit for you if you’re just getting into the beard game and a must have for grooming and maintaining your beard. SECRID SLIM WALLET
Exceptional design that fits your skinniest jeans – Secrid’s Slim Wallet fuses style with technology to protect your money and your privacy.
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QUOR
COULD BE, LICENCE YOU
DON’T TAKE TH
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Remoaners I know – I know – that me moaning about people moaning is the very definition of irony (isn’t it Alanis), but there are some seriously pathetic, small-minded chimps out there doing my head in. They complain they don’t get the recognition they deserve, they complain that life is unfair, that – essentially – other people are better than them. Gene whizz! I’d wager that if they spent a quarter of the time venting furiously on social media by getting in touch with people, sending out promos, going down to their events and putting in the legwork, they’d get a lot more recognition. Instead you come off as having the emotional maturity of a goldfish and the drive of a stoned sloth. Ditch the attitude and do something proactive. Or just sit there and be a keyboard warrior while life passes you by. Your call.
Monkey Out... The Angry Monkeys’ views are his own, and don’t necessarily reflect the views of Infusion Magazine.
F R I 09 DEC EVENTS & RESERVATIONS: +971 4 510 3100 reservations@billionairemansiondubai.com • events@billionairemansiondubai.com ADDRESS: Taj Hotel , Business Bay, Dubai, UAE