Infusion #309: 18 Feb - 4 March '18

TALAL BUDEBS Publisher CHARL CHAKA Managing Partner charlchaka@infusion.ae Sales/marketing magazine@infusion.ae Editor editor@infusion.ae PAULA MANGUEIRA Design design@infusion.ae SONIA IGNACIO Operations operations@infusion.ae CONTRIBUTORS: Kimberley Dean, Ginger S, Boxtones, and Andy Buchan INFUSION IS PUBLISHED BY Milehigh Media, LLC PO Box 53443 – Dubai, UAE Tel/Fax: 04 368 8098

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OLD JOKES HOME: Q/ Where does bad light end up?

A/ In prism

WHATS NEW: Carnival Island by Snoopy Beats is set to return on Fri 27th April.

Martin Solvieg is to play at Gotha on Thu, 15th March.

Metalheadz latest signing ‘Phase’ is coming out to play at Bassworx on Thu 8th March DJ and Producer duo The Mambo Brothers will be playing at Soho Garden Fri, 3rd March.

Republic, the casual dining venue from Lebanon is opening in Dubai & will be open 24/7 with a resident DJ. A late breakfast after party sounds in order.

Stereo has a new Friday in the club with Mr. Levier + Nnamdi + Lucas Dirty.

They’re playing Hip Hop and RnB more of the new stuff 2010s - present day we’re told.

McGettigan’s DWTC has a brand new ladies night on Fridays with DJ John Greaney playing all the commerical hits before The Mike Ross Band hits the stage at 9pm to midnight – playing classic covers, pop, soul, rock and more.

Q43 launched its first night dedicated to the In Crowd; an Industry Night.

Say hi to the reception staff on arrival and prove your workplace position, and the guys at Q43 will sort you out with your industry night discount tag.

GUEST LIST Ras al Khaimah’s new zipline is declared world record breaker with travel at speeds of up to 150kph at a height of 1,680 metres above sea level on top of Jebel Jais mountain. Where do we sign up?

BLACK LIST Things we really need to know: Elton John’s guest WiFi password is ‘rocket man’.

At the time of going the press DEEP LIKE still haven’t found their new home yet. Where we going to get our fix of the deepness on a Thursday nights now?

SoundCloud’s uncertainty. Is it staying or going?

Spotify is blocked in this region.

Booooo

We loving new hip-hop track “Truth” by Gin feat. Mystic Butterfly being played in Dubai clubs. Check it out on soundcloud here: soundcloud. com/therealgin Shouts to BOCA who recently hosted a vinyl only party with cheese and whisky! Now that’s our kind of party.

Deetron is scheduled to mix the first DJ-Kicks compilation of 2018. Boom!

Redbull has released a new drink called ORGANICS by Red Bull.

Things you will only see in Dubai: There’s a hotel called ‘Somewhere Hotel’ in Tecom… ooo sorry we mean ‘Al Barsha Heights’ We’ll always know it as ‘Straight Outta Te-Compton’ 5% Vat & no Skype. Do we need to say anything more?

What lies in store for Ibiza in 2018? The nervous annual stalemate of who plays where is about to reach its conclusion.

Eric Prydz is working on a new 3D light show. When are we going to stop focusing on all the bring lights and just get back to the music?

14 people were shot dead at Brazilian nightclub Forro do Gago last weekend.

Hardcore jungle pioneer Tango has died. Bless you brother.

Say What?

ANALOG ROOM ON TOP Shouts to Analog Room who made the list of best top nightclubs and parties in the Middle East by Scene Noise. There selection wasn’t based on how renowned the venues are, or if they have the occasional alternative or underground act, but on their dedication to promote exhibiting talents, outstanding music, and create a setting that will take the experience to a new level……and with that Infusion can’t agree more!

Analog Room every Thursday at Industrial Avenue simply keeps it real in our book! We salute you!

Hundreds mesmerized by enormous light-bulb CLICK HERE FOR INFO

EATS EVERYTHING EAGLES & BUTTERFLIES

NU

FEBRUARY

23 2018

FREDERICK STONE / AIDIN KARAMI / CHARL CHAKA +971 56 113 3400 RESERVATION@BLUEMARLINIBIZA-UAE.COM RESTAURANT HOURS 1PM-11PM / SAFETY DRIVER SERVICE AVAILABLE

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DJ BLISS – WHAT A GUY!

“Bliss is how we do it”

Marwan aka DJ Bliss is a man who needs little introduction in the scene. He is a UAE based personality and entertainer who has simply done it all. Infusion was there back in the day when he entered the Palme DJ Competition, he got on the mic and started rapping midway through his DJ set.

We remember the days when he used to write a biweekly column for us in the then 20 page Infusion Magazine. Like the city, he has come a long way and watching this 9 minute video on how it all started for him and how he got where he is today, we have to say, well done bro!

#THROWBACK

Snoop Sco

op!

Remember that time INFUSION TV interviewed Snoop Doggy Dog? A very nervous looking Vip Patel caught up with the legendary Snoop Dogg aka 'Snoop Lion' for his first interview of 2013 after the New Years Eve Atelier Festival.

LOOKING

BACK

Retrospective on what’s been happening in our world.

What we did

#DXBEXPERIMENTS PRESENTS: THE GARDEN

Listen carefully, The Garden is calling your name.

Escape the expected, journey into the extraordinary and head down to Le Royal MÊridien Beach Resort & Spa between February and April and explore Dubai’s first and finest garden lounging experience. Infusion headed down for the opening night, where mixologist Angus McGregor showed off his expert technique behind the bar, to shake up a selection of seriously delicious Whiskey Cocktails. The weather was perfect, the setting was intimate, and lost in a flora garden full of pretty lights overhead the ambience was set just right by the jazz band playing softly in the background. The garden will be open from 6 p.m. until 11 p.m. on Tuesday - Thursday and has designed something uniquely fabulous to whet your appetite and entice your taste buds on each individual night.

Best of all, entry is free!

Words by Kimberley Dean

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

HIP-HOP CHIC MONDAY NIGHTS AT CIRQUE

Monday Nights are dedicated to turning up in Dubai with circus freaks, dope DJs and hip-hop artists. The night started off with DJ Flippside and DJ Keza spinning favorite trap and hip-hop tracks such as Plain Jane –ASAP Ferg and God’s Plan - Drake. Every month Hip-hop Chic is bringing in an artist. Newly signed RnB artist from Epic Records Eric Bellinger from Los Angeles, California rocked the stage to perform his new hit track Goat 2.0 as well as tracks Valet and and ‘I Don’t Want Her’. Eric engaged the crowd with his beautiful voice and dynamic energy. Party goers were having a great time and loving the vibe. Cirque has recently been remodeled and the set-up and décor is decked out with mirrors and plenty of space for people to party. Definitely a fun place to party and pop champagne.

Words by Ginger S.

“Clean your golf ball? Sure!”

DENNIS FERRER AT BLUE MARLIN

“Ooooh! My armpits smell gooood!”

“Guys? Where’s the rest of this U.S. flag?”

CIRQUE #IFYOUDONTKNOWDONTWORRY

“Gaaaah! Gargling tomato soup is fun!”

“I got all this jewellery from Mr T’s baby”

“Sshh! The Love Boat is sinking. Don’t tell anyone!”

DRAI’S DUBAI OPENING FT TORY LANEZ

“Tee hee!! Balloons make me giggle!”

Q43 TURNS 4 W/ PROK + FITZ

“Don’t tell anyone, but I’m listening to a podcast about BitCoins”

Welcome to the penultimate gathering of the White Shirt Gang”

“We can agree on which way to face”

LOOKING

FORWARD

Where we filter out the best things that are coming your way...

SUPERHERO CELEBRATION AT TRIBECA

The Black Panther Superhero Party will celebrate the new Marvel movie at Tribeca, JA Ocean View Hotel in JBR on Thursday 22nd February. Tribeca will be transformed into the Black Panther’s mystical homeland of Wakanda for one night only. With fantastic music from the award-winning DJ 3G KID - live African drummers and superhero cosplay competition, this is gonna be a night to rock the superhero universe! Tribeca invites everyone to come party as any superhero character - you could be Black Panther, Wonder Woman or The Joker for the night and you could fly away with a special prize! Best of all the party is FREE all night.

“Where’s my tiny microphone?”

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

SAM STARKS FROM 1PM - RESTAURANT 310 AED, TERRACE & BEACH 340 AED MOËT ICE IMPÉRIAL CHAMPAGNE 580 AED

+971 56 113 3400

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DIRTY SOUTH AT ZERO GRAVITY

Fridays all-day Pool and Beach Brunch has been impressing Dubai with an influx of international DJs throughout the month of February. This bubbly brunch has quickly proven to be a ‘not to be missed’ event with guests enjoying unlimited Beach BBQ, food stations and beverages from 1pm to 5pm, for just AED 295 for girls, and AED 315 for guys. All this accompanied by the finest tunes from international DJs as the sun sets! Friday 23rd February is set for two-time Grammy-nominated DJ, producer and global festival headliner, Dirty South. This big player on the world club scene has collaborated with world-renowned producers to create the likes of Grammy nominated remix of Temper Trap’s ‘Sweet Disposition’. Make sure to get these February dates in your diary and spend the day at Zero Gravity, Dubai’s award-winning day to night beach club.

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

TIM WESTWOOD TO HEADLINE AT NDULGE

No.1 Events & Vanquish PR are bringing some of the hottest UK Urban Talent to Dubai on a monthly basis. Taking over the Ndulge Club space, Infusion has been told they will transform the club into a 3 Room entertainment hub. Headlining the first event on Thursday, 1st March will be legendary DJ Tim Westwood in the Main Arena, the multi award winning legend will be joined along side local DJ Adam J & taking over the UKG Terrace will be garage acts Heartless Crew & So Solid Crews Oxide & Neutrino supported by Dane Bowers.

BUY TICKETS

NEW THEMED NIGHTS AT IKANDY

Ikandy, the relaxed & funky outdoor lounge at Shangri-La Hotel, Dubai has incredible views of the Burj Khalifa & they’ve set about bringing some exciting new offerings to the table for their livelier Thursday and Friday nights. On Thursdays dig out your denim overalls, neon jackets and bandanas and get ready to step back in time to the 90’s, with classic cocktails and the best DJ hits of the decade. On the 1st and 3rd Friday of every month they present Showtime, an exclusive nightlife experience set to combine spectacular theatrics, DJ and an incredible outdoor setting that creates a party vibe that is guaranteed to keep you entertained and moving all night!

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

Enter through the gold Vault doors and unlock the secrets of this effortlessly cool space. Ladies will be treated to three complimentary delicious beverages.

Come and discover unparalleled views of Dubai and enjoy the DJ’s innovative grooves.

Tuesdays from 7pm to midnight.

JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 414 3000 | jwmmrr@marriott.com | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JW Marriott Marquis Dubai |

#VaultDubai

JWDubaiMarquis |

vaultdubai

La Cala DJs celebrates ironic shirt with ironic gesture.

How La Cala was born

Designed as a ‘daycay’ destination to escape the city, La Cala is nestled on the sandy outpost of Ghantoot marina, just 20 minutes outside of the city of Dubai. The intimate destination encompasses a lounge restaurant, day beds for lazing with family and friends, and a late night music policy straight out of the Balearics! Infusion spoke to Anton from La Cala who gave us a little insight into the history and where the idea for the popular Friday Balearic brunch came from…

So how did it all start?

My uncle and I had always dreamt of opening a beach bar, we had looked into a number of locations in both Dubai and Ibiza but nothing had quite resonated with the intimate vibe we were looking to create. That was however until we stumbled across our very own piece of the Balearics, right here in the UAE! Awesome, who else is behind it?

We have the backing of 2 incredible partners; Alex Bracken who is behind well known, lively nightlife spots The Scene and Mr. Miyagi’s, and Andy Williams, a music producer who previously toured with group K-Klass and now headlines at Emtec and Funktion One in the Middle East, we created a kick-ass team to start designing and bringing this concept to life.

So tell us a little about the brunch concept.

After being open for nearly 18 months and going head to head with the vast, ever-growing competition present in the entertainment industry here, we decided to launch a brunch to encourage an earlier crowd and really maximize on the beautiful daytime venue.

I wanted Fridays at La Cala to become the go-to, affordable brunch spot, where people could really enjoy showcase, intimate set’s, from cool artists. That’s how the idea was born!”

You’ve had some amazing artist down for the brunch Yes recently we’ve had from Kevin Saunderson, Crazy P, PBR Streetgang & Horse Meat Disco headline at La Cala so we are off to a great start!

What is the cost and timings of brunch?

On Fridays, anytime between 12am-9pm come down & enjoy a 3 hour Balearic Brunch. Our Resident DJs start to play early at 12pm, with headline artists playing a 3 hour set from around 4pm & La Cala is open until late.

Burnski In a day and age where the definition of ‘house’ is constantly being reconceptualised, a new breed of youngblood producers step forward bringing with them a deep and groove-laden sound building on classic timbers. At the forefront we find Burnski. Deftly abridging vintage Detroit and Chicago, always infused with the unmistakeable Burnski charm, he is moving dancefloors all over the world. The steadfast vinyl advocate regularly takes his organic and deeperring sound to the most noted clubs and nights around the world. These, at a glance, include fabric London, Watergate and his home-turf of Berlin, the LA Rooftop Standard, The Electric Pickle in Miami, MAC in Barcelona and Rex Club in Paris to name but a few, along with holding down a residency at Leeds’ finest Back To Basics. Catch him at La Cala on Fri 23rd Feb

“What? Another Retro-Return of Vinyl Resurgence Comeback?!

Amazing!”

K-Klass If you know house music you will know K-Klass. They are legendary producers of house music & responsible for some of the biggest house tracks ever made. It all started with nights out at the legendary Hacienda “Nude” nights in 1988 led to the meeting of minds and the beginnings of the K-Klass phenomena that lead to regular performances at the Hacienda.

From there K-Klass became residents for the worlds biggest dance brand “Cream”, playing guest slots all over the world at some of the most prestigious and biggest dance events. Today they play at various events and venues all over the world on a weekly basis, which means it is important that they adapt their music to suit each venue. K-Klass are all about entertaining and playing for the crowd & you can catch them at La Cala on Fri 2nd March.

3

MODERN DAY NOMADS EATS EVERYTHING AND RAVERS EAGLESUNITE! & BUTTERFLIES NU

The electrifying party atmosphere continues as balearic beach club Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE prepares to welcome three insane DJ acts: Eats Everything, Eagles & Butterflies, and NU, FREDERICK STONE / AIDIN KARAMI / CHARL CHAK on Friday 23rd February! +971 56 113 3400

RESERVATION@BLUEMARLINIBIZA-UAE.C

The club’s soul will be awakened by the elusive, nomadic Nu, who is here to showcase his diverse instrumental and electronic mixes alongside Eagles & Butterflies who’s known to play with vast music genres from techno, house, and beyond.

Rounding up the trio is one of UK’s finest, Eats Everything who’s sure to elevate the party atmosphere with non-stop exhilarating beats.

Armed with an epic DJ lineup, unique dining experience, and unmatched beach club vibes, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE is the ultimate weekend destination.

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

WINE AND CHOCOLATE WITH THE WIZARD OF US

In spring 2010, 2 cologne natives decided to kick their a^& into gear and get out of their studio to bring their unique and organic sound to the world. And we glad they did!

Built from soul and passion, Andhim was formed and less than 12 months later their approachable chord sequences and eccentric sound could be found in the cases and remixwishes of many unknown and famous DJ’s alike. Infusion took the opportunity to grab a few minutes with the party-proven duo before they are set to play at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE on Friday, 2nd March.

Where did the two of you meet and how did Andhim come to be founded?

We met through turntablism and ended up scratching together at Tobias' nursery. After a while we also started to jam together in the studio where we would experiment with all different kinds of styles till we finished one or two “housy” tracks we both really liked. From then on, we kept producing and defining our sound until we sent some tracks to a label and got our first deal. At this point, we didn’t even have a name for our project.

How did the transition from your hip-hop grassroots, to your journey through electronic, house & techno come about?

We were always into Hip Hop and especially turntablism but the scene changed dramatically. In the early 2000s the Hip Hop scene just became a joke.

There was nothing left from the amazing old school

vibes, where people would freestyle and breakdance at a jam. People were not interested in the culture anymore. Nobody would write a wall, or beatbox, or whatever came along with this beautiful culture. It was all about bling bling. In comparison, the house scene at the same time was the exact opposite! It was about fun and dancing, and smiling at each other, and just having a good time. Not about showing off, and that's what we loved about it! Also the diversity of electronic music and the possibilities of creating this sound made a big impression on us. You were more or less free to do whatever you want. So we started to DJ and produce electronic music.

You describe your sound as "Super House". Why is it you felt your music needed its very own genre and how did this term originate?

We call it Super House, yes. It's a name for the vibe of our music and the style of our production. It was never easy to categorize our music so we created our own genre to have an answer to the question how

we would we describe our style. Our style can be everything though, from melancholy to happy and from slow to fast but you will always recognize the Andhim fingerprint.

Why did you decide to create your own label, Superfriends?

We founded the label as a playground for our ideas and visions. For our definition of, not only electronic music, but good music in general. We want to show the world our full spectrum of musical sense without any boundaries irrespective of labels or A&R's. We also wanted to have full control over our music and the way it is presented. After over a year of running the label we can say that it was one of the best and most important decisions in our career and it keeps us highly motivated to this day!

Favorite gig to this day? Why? Ahh, that's impossible to answer. We are so lucky to travel the world and play at so many beautiful places that we can't pic a favourite. Let's say, we really love playing open air shows when the weather and the girls are hot!!

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

MONIKA KRUSE - FALL IN TO THE VIBE OF ELECTRONIC ICON Monika Kruse, who brings over 25 years of musical history & will be joining alongside the guaranteed energy of ‘super house’ duo, the unmissable Andhim.

EMMANUEL IS SET TO HEADLINE DECIBEL

Emmanuel Beddewela has wasted no time in making waves in the underground techno and house music industry. This young All Killer No Filler artist has already headlined in venues that many mature DJ’s could only dream of. Numerous industry heavy weights have championed his sound and In the light of his upcoming gig at Dubai’s DECIBEL, Infusion were intrigued to get some insight into where this dynamic and uncompromising style originated from, and of-course where the young producer sees himself heading in the future.

Born in 1987, can you give us some insight to your roots, where your music industry journey started, and how it lead you to where you are today?

My parents are a mix of Srilankan and Maldivians and I was born in Pireo, Greece. My early childhood was spent there, but soon after we moved to Milano, Italy and that is where I grew up and it is the city I consider my hood! My first record on 12” was released when I was just 18 years old and that is where everything started! Until today I have produced over 60 records, around 40 with my name on them. I personally think that I am where I am today, simply because of my passion and my love for what I do! I believe to have good results you have to dedicate yourself fully to the task, and that is what I have done for the last 5 years and will continue to do going forward. I won’t stop here; the sky is the limit! My label ARTS I see as an “institution” to provide a platform for all talented artists to grow, create their own space and to show others how it’s done.

Infusion have heard that the main motto behind your approach to music is that “A true artist is the one who stands out from the crowd”. In your opinion what is it about you, and the music that you create, that has made you not only stand out from the crowd but direct it?

That’s pretty interesting, yes that phrase was a signature of my bio, and was indicating a precise way to explain a moment. I find when people get a hint of success, they often keep following others, and the way that others think, act, react and so on. I on the other hand was always the guy that went against the grain and this gave me a very troubled youth. As I grew up I slowly realized that I had to learn to respect others and their ideas or ways of doing things, but on the other hand I also realized that I had to stand by my own ideas and explore my own creativity. My music is my DNA, and how I express emotion, amongst other things, to a big crowd whilst performing is different to how someone else will because only I can see the world through my eyes. As I matured I learnt to accept that the way that I did things might not necessarily always be ‘the right way’ but that there was surely something magical behind my vision, and how people

reacted to my idea’s. I still get shocked to this day when some of my very insane idea’s work like a charm, and we are able to go beyond just a concept. So, to me, I suppose this means “ standing out from the crowd”.

Would you agree that some of your most regular played regions are Paris, Berlin & Barcelona?

Which stands out as your favorite as a DJ, and where would you choose to party yourself?

Yes, I do agree, I have lot of soul and love for all of those cities almost equally. It is hard to say where is my favorite place as a DJ, because I have a strong connection in all of them, and all of them added to my growth and development. France is pure fire. Barcelona I have a strong relation with Razzmatazz, and then we also had one of the biggest and most beautiful party’s in Sonar period for Off-Sonar there. But, there is literally no place like Berlin in the entire World! Berlin is the city where I fell in love, and it is the city that gave me a platform to breath, literally! This is the city where I found myself as a musician. Club wise I have played in every single big club of the city. We did Showcases in Berghain, and Tresor 2 times, and soon we will do one in Greissmuhle as well. This city is an unstoppable

machine. I would definitely party in all 3 cities, but surely Berlin has a sweet spot, probably because it is my home now.

If you could play B2B with any artist right now who would it be and why?

I am not a very big B2B lover, I love to share, but I never found a real “ feeling� playing B2B with someone in my career. But if I have to choose I would surely do a Live act with Jeff Mills on the side and Ryuichi Sakamoto on the other side any day.

Just to name a few, you have already won over some pretty special dancefloors in the likes of Razzmatazz, MayDay, Corsica Studios and Batofar.

What nightclub, that you have yet to conquer, are you most excited to play for in the near future?

Mayday was an amazing and unique experience, I really felt that all the hard work I have done during this years was worth it. For the future, I am very excited to make my debut in Khidi in Tbilisi, probably one of the most inspiring places that we have now in the Techno scene. It is also very special, because it will be an ARTS Showcase.

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

MARCH

02 2018

FREDERICK STONE / AIDIN KARAMI / CHARL CHAKA +971 56 113 3400 RESERVATION@BLUEMARLINIBIZA-UAE.COM RESTAURANT HOURS 1PM-11PM / SAFETY DRIVER SERVICE AVAILABLE

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Lets DISCONEKT with AIDIN KARAMI The Founder, Managing Partner & Resident Dj, AIDIN KARAMI is one busy man.

Infusion Magazine sat down with him to chat all things DISCONEKT Who’s behind DISCONEKT? The collective Aidin Karami ,Mostwntd & Frederick Stone joined forces with the aim to deliver a night dedicated to electronic music. We have brought together a team of like minded industry professionals, DJ’s and PR’s who have spent many years embedded in the Dubai nightlife scene, which combined are the driving force behind pioneering the success of Disonekt.

Why Vii Dubai?

When deciding on the venue there were a number of key elements which we took into consideration including utilising an outdoor social space to capitalize on the early part of the evening where we currently

host B4 Disconekt in the Secret Garden, combined with a club which could accommodate the diversity of our crowd which comprises of those looking for the comfort of booking a table and those looking for an open dancefloor. Supported with a well equipped sound and lighting system we were able to create the perfect balance for everyone looking to Disconekt!

What is the vibe of a DISCONEKT party?

It's more of an experience so you really have got to be there to feel the vibe What do you think are the key ingredients for a successful party, and how did you make sure DISCONEKT got those right?

If I told you, then everyone would be doing it. One thing I can say is have a great team to make everything happen is key.

What were important moments in the growth of DISCONEKT? Staying true to ourselves. Not letting ego, fame, and success get in our way. Keeping it about the music and fans who attend disconket.

Have you seen an increase in techno's popularity since you in dubai?

Yes! Do you know beforehand what you're going to play on any given night?

I never know until I get there. I have an idea of tracks I'm going to play, and of a direction I’m going to go in.

But it can change very easily.

What makes a great track?

A good track should have a story to tell, as well as a hook that sticks in the listener's head.

What's coming up next?

My partners and I and our team have been working on a few new ideas and projects and the news will be released very soon. I'd rather be a good 'secret keeper.

Hundreds gather to worship Triangle

Catch Aidin Karami every Wednesday at Disconekt & at Blue Marlin on Fridays

5 minutes with BASE Marketing Manager

Sami Memmi

Infusion Magazine chats to BASE team about their up-coming season over a coffee.

BASE has come onto the scene and quickly signed some of the biggest labels and names in the business. Who’s has been the highlight for you so far?

We have had some incredible artists over the past year, but the highlights for me have been Jennifer Lopez, and the Music On residency with Marco Carola. I love deep house music and Marco Carola’s sets have created an insane vibe. His next performance at Base will be on March 1st.

What was the highlight moment from 2017 for you?

The opening of BASE in April was such a good night.

After months of hard work and dedication, we were so happy it came together so well.

You’ve mixed it up between the heavy weights in Urban and House/Techno scene. How do you find the support on these nights?

We wanted to provide something that meets the needs of every music fan, combined with a unique atmosphere, so that everyone can experience the true essence of BASE. We have focused on creating innovative marketing campaigns, so that each of our events build excitement with the right audience.

The new season has officially kicked off for BASE, what can we look forward to in March?

In February, we officially launched our new night event, LYFE. ‘’Where the world begins’’ We have also confirmed a huge lineup of international names in March, one of them being none other than Black Coffee!

With summer around May/June, are there any plans to keep the venue open?

As BASE is a fully outdoor venue, we will be closed during the summer months. We will use this time to prepare for BASE Season 2.

As the saying goes, it’s all about the “Base”, what sound system do you have in the club?

We use a TW audio system, and have been impressed with its impact.

We always see full production of entertainment on the nights, can you tell us a little more.

We have an amazing Artistic Director, who works closely with our DJs, performers, costume designers and technicians to create a completely new and different experience for each event.

Any other names coming down in 2018 you can share with us?

For now, I can let you know that Black Coffee, French Montana and 2 Chainz are coming up. But we have more huge names to announce over the next few months, so stay tuned!

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

No.1 Events on the hustle.

Infusion Magazine managed to get hold of probably one of the busiest promoters in the game, Mr Kit Kheedo, to see what he is up to for this coming season…

Mr Kit, you’ve been around for as long as we can remember. What’s making you stick around in this city.

Like anyone else that’s been here longer than they thought they would, Dubai becomes home and there are always new opportunities.

You’ve seen it all, the highs and the lows in the city. Where can we improve as an industry?

In my opinion it’s to adapt with market change. Dubai is expanding rapidly, you need to be able to evolve with it.

We see you’ve been working closely with JW Marriott in Business Bay in recent times. What are you cooking up for this season? We recently launched their ladies night version of the award winning Wanderlust Brunch at Café Artois. It’s a cool chilled outdoor concept with live RNB & Soul music by Jaymie Deville starting at 8pm every Tuesday. Ladies receive complimentary drinks drinks from 7pm-12am

Cool so that is your Tuesday night sorted.

Knowing you this is not the only night you're doing. What are you up to on the weekends?

Thursday’s we launched a new project at OKKU in the H hotel, SZR. The OKKU concept is Japanese Restaurant/Lounge with us adding wasabi with some classic old school RNB music. Ladies receive complimentary drinks from 7pm-12am. We also are launching a massive UK based monthly event called HEADLINE at N’Dulge Club, The Atlantis. March 1st we have the big dog Tim Westwood in the1500 capacity arena while two of the biggest UK Garage collectives Heartless Crew & Oxide & Neutrino from So Solid will be on the outdoor terrace. The next events will be on April 5th & May 3rd so look out for those.

BOOK TICKETS

We heard some rumors that you have Dane Bowers coming down for a yacht party?

Yep that is correct! We have launched The World’s Biggest Mega Yacht Brunch Party that runs weekly every Friday till Ramadan and will re launch towards the end of the year. It’s on the Lotus Mega Yacht located at Pier 7, Dubai Marina every Friday from 1-5pm hosted by Dane Bowers + international artists every 1st Friday of the month. We have a 395AED & 495AED packages that includes unlimited food and drinks + access to the yachts pool & Jacuzzi.

The party doesn’t stop there. Right after the Yacht we move everyone to the The Post Brunch Afterparty, Sunset sessions on the Atelier M Rooftop, Pier 7. Music is provided by Lucas Dirty playing everything to keep you moving. Timings are from 4pm-8pm and we are offering a special price of 30AED on house beverages.

BOOK TICKETS

That is pretty full on mate. Anything else we should look out for?

Sunday is the day of rest which is why we created The Remedy at Tree House at the Taj Hotel in Business Bay. Tree House is an amazing outdoor venue with spectacular views of the Burj Khalifa. It’s the perfect way to unwind on a Sunday night while listening to Jaymie Deville play live popular RNB starting at 8pm.

We offer ladies Unlimited Rose Wine for ladies 100AED 7pm-1am. Food and Shisha is also available.

Nice one. What are your predictions for 2018 in the scene?

More venues, less promoters and harder times.

Like we said, probably one of the busiest promoters in this town still delivering top quality nights.

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

ON THE RADAR

DURAN DURAN WED, 21ST FEB - DUBAI MEDIA CITY AMPHITHEATRE

LUCIANO FRI, 23RD FEB - SOHO BEACH

DJ MOSIMANN THU, 22TH FEB - RADISSON BLUE

RICKY MARTIN FRI, 23RD FEB - - DUBAI MEDIA CITY AMPHITHEATRE

JOHN LEGEND THU, 22ND FEB - - DUBAI MEDIA CITY AMPHITHEATRE

MARCO CAROLA THU, 1ST MARCH – BASE

EATS EVERYTHING, EAGLES & BUTTERFLIES AND NU FRI, 23RD FEB - BLUE MARLIN

FIFTH HARMONY FRI 16TH, MARCH - DU FORUM

ON THE RADAR

RAG‘N’BONE MAN FRI, 23RD MARCH - DUBAI OPERA

THIRD SON (LIVE) FRI, 9TH MARCH 2018 PLUS MINUS

BLACK COFFEE THU, 29TH MARCH - BASE

RONY SEIKALY THU, 5TH APRIL - BASE

EINMUSIK (LIVE) FRI, 2ND MARCH – PLUS MINUS

DONETSK OPERA & BALLET FRI, 20TH APRIL - EMIRATES PALACE

SIGALA FRI, 9TH MARCH - NASIMI BEACH

THE BIG BBQ SOCIAL FRI 27TH APRIL - JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE

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Music be the food of love, so read on...

Music News EMIMME LAUNCHING IN MIDDLE EAST.

Loay Salama is the man behind EMIMME. Infusion chatted to him to see what this project is all about.

What made you start this project?

After many years studying the Middle Eastern music scenes intently, making music while working endless

jobs that did nothing for me, making money just to spend it on s&*# I didn’t need, I’ve decided to take an initiative! Looking at the Middle East’s bank of this turbulent river that is our industry, I have recently realized this: borders are disappearing, everything in the industry is being normalized and everyone is connecting.

Tell us what EMMIME is all about?

The initiative is an online magazine that will cover & uncover everything about the electronic music industry throughout the Middle East, with in-depth highlights of each country’s scene, powered by an intense team of musically inclined individuals the magazine will serve as a combined pool for every country to be educated about the whole region, turning local artists into regional artists, small events into proper regional happenings and local festivals into massive regional festivals, bridging the gaps within Middle Eastern countries and with the Middle East and the rest of the world.

So you covering the whole of the Middle East?

If politicians and their borders won’t bring us together, let’s see if this Music will! When I speak of the Middle East, I mean every soul who shares the land the air and the love for this music. We all look up to the same artists, listen to the same tracks, follow the same labels, we all dance the same and its time we danced together!

This sounds like a movement Make no mistake: we are not starting a movement: the movement has already started! This is just a mere push in the right direction. I am inviting EVERYONE to jump in and be a part of this.

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

BOX-TALK with the BOXTONES

Infusion Magazine welcomes the BOXTONES! They’ve promised to give us the best behind the scenes info on Dubai’s music scene. This issue they give us the low down on “shows you don’t want to miss” & check out the latest gear to use in the studio.

GIG-TALK • Fri. March 9th – Infinity Sessions at Nasimi Beach, Atlantis the Palm with DJ Sigala and The Boxtones

• Fri. March 9th – Swallow The Sun – Live in Dubai at Scarlet Cardinal, Sofitel Hotel JBR (doom metal band from Finland)

• Wed. Feb. 28th and March 7th – Boxed Off Wednesdays with The Boxtones at Lock, Stock & Barrel - Barsha Heights (10:30pm start for the band, food & drinks specials.

TECH-TALK Limited Edition Shure Super55 – The Boxtones keys player Will Janssen decided he needed an upgrade to his current microphone situation.

Luckily, there was a Limited Edition black one with his name written all over it made by the awesome team at Shure! Isn’t she a beauty?

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

THE 9 BEST MUSIC & CLUBBING BOOKS

Infusion picked nine of our favourite music & clubbing books that have helped define scenes, tell unbelievable stories (in Keith Richards’ case, they’re very true) and give you goosebumps as they recount the history of dance music. So as the saying goes: “Get Reading” Words by Andy Buchan

How Music Works – David Byrne Part auto biography of the Talking Heads star, part anthropological music theory and part indispensable music bible, How Music Works is a fascinating, brilliantly written book that covers everything from why birds sing to the punk rock explosion. The non linear structure can be hard to digest as it flits from fascinating Talking Heads anecdotes to a lecture-like dissection of music as an art form, but stick with it, as the book rewards you with intelligent debate.

How Music Got Free – Stephen Witt Or the demise of the music industry, as Witt traces the journey from the creation of the MP3 (which took a team of German scientists over a decade) to content sharing sites like BitTorrent and Napster, and then how the record industry adapted to the seismic changes (hint: they didn’t). With plenty of gonzo glee, and some excellent character studies – including Dell Glover, one of the first uploaders who literally stole 20,000 albums from his record processing plant – it’s a fascinating take on the pre-Spotify era of music.

Kill Your Friends – John Niven Ignore the recent film adaptation and instead read this coruscating, brutally dark and funny account of Stephen Stelfox, a late 90s record label A&R who drinks, snorts and kills his way through the music industry. Imagine American Psycho but with more Britpop and you’re not far off. An utterly despicable character – and one (very) loosely based on anecdotal research – Stelfox’s antics get ever more debauched as he searches for the next pop hit, stopping at nothing to get his way.

Last Night A DJ Saved My Life – Bill Brewster & Frank Broughton Indispensable reading for any DJ (and wannabe), Brewster and Broughton form a formidable double team as they trace the history of dance music through soul, reggae, hip hop, disco, house and techno. The book is full of facts: did you know that, technically, Jimmy Saville was the world’s first DJ? The Observer called Last Night one of the greatest music books of all time, and we’d wholeheartedly agree. Their follow up, How To DJ Right: The Art and Science of Playing Records is well worth a read as well.

Energy Flash: A Journey Through Rave Music and Dance Culture – Simon Reynonlds Part personal memoir and part cultural history, esteemed music journalist Simon Reynolds charts the rise of the rave scene in the with interviews from Goldie and Aphex Twin providing a valuable insight into one of the most explosive periods of dance music history. Covering everything from Detroit techno to Dutch gabba, this is an authoritative, insightful analysis that was recently updated in 2013.

Turn The Beat Around – Peter Shapiro The big bang for house music, Peter Shapiro lovingly delves into disco’s rich history. He analyses everything: from the social and economic conditions that allowed disco to flourish to the key players that got disco onto the dancefloors (including, as convincingly argued

by Shapiro, post-Nazi Swing Kids in Germany). Well researched and written with real energy, this book is the nearest you’ll get to stepping foot into Studio 54.

The Hacienda: How Not To Run A Nightclub – Peter Hook Bassist for New Order and Joy Division, Peter Hook was also one of the driving forces – and benefactors – in the Hacienda, the cult 80s nightclub that helped bring about the acid house revolution in the UK. In total, New Order had over half a million dirhams siphoned out of their accounts to fund the Hacienda dream, which initially at least, was mired in mis-management, poor turn outs and gang violence. Hook is charmingly chatty throughout, and amazingly candid – notably describing when their NYE takings were set alight by indoor fireworks. As Tony Wilson, co-owner said: “Some people make money, others make history.”

John Peel - Margrave of the Marshes A broadcasting icon, John Peel’s death in 2004 not only prompted a world wide outpouring of grief but also meant that his autiobiography had to be finished by his wife Sheila. Written in his trademark self depcretating style, it’s a book full of personal revelations – he was molested as a young boy at his boarding school, and had a cold upbringing where he found meaning, love and life in music. At a young age he emigrated to America, and faking a Liverpudlian accent – the Beatles had just broken through – he managed to get onto radio, and the rest, as they say, is history. His Fabric Live CD still stands out as a testament to his all encompassing love of music, and this book is still as relevant now as when he first started turning a nation of radio listeners onto weird and wonderful music.

Life - Keith Richards To pick just one story out from Keith Richards’ incredible autobiography is to do the others dis-justice, but this is one of our favourites. “We would record from late in the afternoon until 5 or 6 in the morning, and suddenly the dawn comes up and I’ve got this speedboat. Go down the steps through the cave to the dockside; let’s take Mandrax to Italy for breakfast. . . . No passport, right past Monte Carlo as the sun’s coming up with music ringing in our ears.” All the while listening to freshly cut tapes of tracks like ‘Rocks Off’ with the sun rising over the crystal blue waters of the Mediterranean. How rock and roll is that? Life is essentially Keith telling you every little detail – every sordid, outrageous, incredible detail – of life in the greatest living rock band with real flair. It’s wildly entertaining, and should be essential reading for any band member and music fan.

Soundstage

THEODORE TEDDY DANSO

My biggest gig was…

I had the pleasure of filling in for a friend and was able to play with the Legend and a personal hero Stevie Wonder I’m best known for…

My love for kicks and all things “FLY” I’m most proud of…

Being able to attend university and being allowed to follow my dreams The artist I’d most like to work with is…

To many to narrow down to one, Daft Punk, Coldplay, U2, Kanye, Teddy Riley One thing you may not know about me is that…I hold dual nationality even though I sound British (I AM THOUGH) This year, I’m playing at…Atlantis and fingers crossed the Dubai Opera House My sound is described as..Synths, Big Drums, and Epic Strings My Music sounds like…

Me!!!

If I had to live in one decade it would be…

Well I’m an 80s baby, so I grew up in the best time for music, its been pretty much down hill since 2010, sorry to say :( The one piece of music kit i can’t live with out is…

My Laptop, it has all my music, sound and allows to be creative and productive, Long Live The MACBOOK PRO Interviewed by Adam Long from Soul Agency

DJ BOOTH: SCOTT FORSHAW

Originally is from Leeds in the UK & been DJing since he was 13 years old. He shares with us his view on Dubai Clubland, what makes a good DJ and his thoughts on the sync button‌.

So who are you? Tell us more, where did it all start for you?

I moved to Dubai around 3 years ago & been producing music in some form the other for as long as I can remember. I started off playing 2000’s hed kandi style funky house on my belt driven turntables.

These days I will literally play everything. From house to

grime, hip hop to pop to edm and mash it all up.

Whats your favorite part of Dubai’s clubbing scene?

The variety and the fact that there’s something to do every single night of the week. Dubai has become such a huge nightlife hub with huge international names from every single genre of music here week in and week out. You’re literally spoilt for choice. And don’t forget the small local parties and locally based DJs still rocking it as well.

What needs some work in the scene?

I think Dubai nightlife overall is in a pretty good place but my biggest pet peeve is smoking indoors. As a none smoker I hate coming home and all my clothes and headphones etc stinking of smoke Whats makes a good DJ? Someone who has great technical ability, can rock a crowd, play the rights tracks and take some risks and throw some curve balls in there from time to time.

What style of music you into?

Production wise currently very much into the commercial / future house kind of sound and my tracks with Greg and others are generally picking up a lot of DJ support from a lot of the big players in that scene.

Our last single has racked up almost half a million YouTube views in 2 months on the Selected channel.

When I’m not in the studio or DJing I tend to listen to a mix of everything but generally stuff that’s more chilled. I’m a huge fan of artists like Chet Faker, Jamie XX, Burial, Lapalux etc. I also love my cheese and 90’s eurodance To Sync or Not to Sync?

Sync, beat matching isn’t exactly a tough skill once you’ve mastered it so why not hit that sync button and

get more creative with other elements of DJing?

My favorite ever record is…

It depends on the mood I’m in as I don’t have one particular favourite but I did listen to a Smashing Pumpkins album recently and had ‘1979’ on repeat for a while .

Biggest DJ achievement to date is…

There’s been quite a few I think. Recently closing for Hardwell and Jennifer Lopez were both up there but there’s been countless gigs over the past few years where I’ve been lucky to share the stage with some of the biggest acts and DJs in the world on a regular basis so I’m just grateful for that.

Favorite musical era?

I can’t say I have a favorite era, I like music from across the board, good music remains good music regardless of when it came out.

DJ Hero?

I have a couple. My dad is number one for getting me into music from day one (I later found out after I started DJing that he used to DJ himself back in the day) Number 2 is Dubai local legend Greg Stainer for pushing me to move over here and all his support and guidance the last few years. And finally another Dubai, DJ Soulninja for constantly inspiring me to up my DJ game and keeping me on my toes Where do you play these days?

You can catch me every Thursday night on Dance FM. Mondays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at Barasti.

Tuesdays and Saturdays at Q43 and also the awesome Candypants parties at Inner City Zoo and XL on Wednesdays and Fridays!

Check out his music at: soundcloud.com/scottforshawofficial

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Shyam P: A new voice being heard in house music With releases on Subliminal, Snatch!, Elrow and Kittball, Shyam is fast becoming the goto man for deep house vocals. Working across low-slung day time tracks or peak time techhouse action, his vocals and melodies have started turning industry heads in all the right places from underground labels to majors world wide.

Words: Andy Buchan What unites the best tracks, what pulls the dance floor together? A good beat, sure. A seismic bassline, yup. But the one thing that resonates with our primal brains, that speaks directly to our cortex? Vocals.

Whether that’s full blown choruses that soar and linger long after the track’s stopped or half-heard snippets that push house and techno on deeper into the night, they’re one of the keys to making good music great.

And in Shyam P, a 33-year old singer and songwriter brought up on UK garage and 4x4, dance music has found a new voice. One that’s happy delivering glamour and glitz with his smooth and soulful vocals but equally at home come 4am when it’s time for the heads-down and hands-up house and techhouse approach, dropping vocal snippets and halfremembered choruses.

Shyam delivers the vocals, melodies and co-produces for cutting-edge electronic duo Arcade 82 who have played sell-out Creamfields UAE shows and supported big names including The Chemical Brothers, The Gorillaz, Mark Ronson, Stormzy and Mark Knight, as well as gigs in Ibiza, Amsterdam, Moscow and Mauritius.

Shyam has quickly became a name in his own right, working closely with Soul DVine, Spirit Soul and Sleazy Deep on a series of early releases. His collaboration with Alex Hook, ‘Walk The Night’ hit the Beatport Chill Out No.1 spot and to date has been streamed over 1 million times on Spotify. Unsurprisingly, that has led to further music being signed on Armada, Kittball and Flashmob Records.

More recently, Shyam has released on world-famous labels including Sublimimal, Cr2, Soul Heaven and Snatch! Records, a truly diverse range of labels and sounds all unified by a common dancefloor denominator - Shyam’s voice. With 2018 under way, and a raft of high profile signings with Elrow and Simma Black and collaborations with Franky Rizardo, Shyam is set to be a voice you’ll be hearing a lot more from…

How long have you been making music for?

When I was 15, I used to go and hang out in DJ Wire’s basement - we would go down there and record. In those days, it was all about UK garage and grime. I got myself some decks and started buying vinyl. We would put on local parties and mix/MC there. Those were the days!

I started listening and studying some of the vocals on garage and 4x4 like Somore, The Nightcrawlers, Rosie Gaines and Brasstooth. They inspired me to start writing on dance music. Looking back, that era was a golden time for UK dance music and I feel pretty blessed to have owned some of those vinyl.

Can you define your musical style or tastes?

As an artist, it’s electronic music. I gravitate towards the deep house sound, that could be daytime, poolside stuff all the way through to more high energy, groovy and club orientated beats. I’m also a massive fan of tech house, DC10 is still one of my favourite places in the world. From going out and partying for over a decade now, I’ve always felt there is room for vocals on this type of music.

When you’re making music, do you envision where the track will be played or which DJs will play it?

When I jam and write music, I try to work a sound and mood, based on the label or labels I want to send the track to.

With the more down-tempo, daytime sound, I think there is more room for vocals, there’s more room to structure a song. I’m always conscious to let the track breath and let the groove roll too.

On the more underground cuts, the top line melodies tend to have less variation and I try to work a number of different phrases. I always try to think about tracks that I’ve heard in DC10 or Fabric for example, which have caught my ear and i try to write lyrics, based on my experiences and feelings when I’m out partying and playing.

What have been some of your biggest success to date?

Last year was a good year, I hit the Beatport Top 20 Tech house with ‘Believe’ on SNATCH with Brett Gould, who is on fire right now! I also released on Erick’s label (Subliminal) and have been fortunate enough to work with some amazingly talented people in the industry, finishing material that will be released this year.

You had some great releases in 2017 on the likes of Subliminal and SNATCH! plus you worked with Harry Romero, Brett Gould, Till Von Sein and many more. What have you got cooking for 2018?

I’ve been working on some great projects recently and I’ve got a few cuts already signed, which will be dropping in the coming months. I’ve also been working on new material with Franky Rizardo, Alex Arnout, Ki Creighton James Curd, The Deepshakerz, Husky plus we also have some exciting new projects and music coming from Arcade 82.

Listen to his music:soundcloud.com/shyammusic

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PUMA MAKES A POWER MOVE WITH THE SUEDE 50 BREAKDANCE CITIES PACK UAE B-boy’s and B-girl’s can rejoice as Global Sports Brand PUMA honors its hip-hop heritage with the Suede 50 Breakdance Cities Pack.

The original silhouette with its plush suede, cool colorways and no-slip rubber sole broke into the breakdance toolkit in the ‘80s and still lives on as a style essential today when it comes to breakdancing dancefloors far and wide.

In order to pay respect to the four most influential breakdancing cities worldwide, PUMA has designed four Suede Classic distinct colourways, embossed with a graphic that celebrates its respective city, along with a matching Breakdance Tee.

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Food News

A WEEKEND WHIRL AT THE 180° BRUNCH

Every Thursday and Friday from 7-10pm, spin to free-flowing rounds of selected beverages, signature cocktails, bites, and groovy beats from top-notch local and international DJ’s during the 180° brunch at 360°. Voted in the ‘Top 100 clubs in the world’ for three years running 360° is no beginner when it comes to throwing a party! The brunch offers three spectacular hours of unlimited selected beverages, including signature cocktails such as the Rosemopolitan & Moscow Mule and choice from a selection of delicious signature dishes including a Maki Roll and Dim Sum Basket, followed by a succulent Grilled Lamb Rack, Chicken Skewers, and Lamb Kofta.

If you’ve still got some space left, have a sweet ending with the 360° dessert platter. All of this for AED 310 per person, it’s a deal that can’t be missed!

CLICK HERE FOR INFO

AQUA POD: DUBAI’S OWN FLOATING DRIVETHROUGH

The world¹s first sustainable floating drive-through has set float in Dubai¹s lagoons, providing visitors with a first-of-its-kind experience while at sea and appropriately named, Salt Bay. Designed by 27-yearyoung, award-winning architect Ahmed Youssef, in collaboration with successful F&B entrepreneur Koussei Kurbaj, the world’s first sustainable drivethrough is set to serve up a creative burgers menu, set to rival even the city’s juiciest joints! So, sea-goers make sure to look out next time you’re spending a day on the water as you can now pull up at the Aqua Pod and enjoy food and beverages just as you would from a traditional food truck. Creative and convenient we say!

Eat Sleep Rave Repeat Grand Bazaar Brunch at Ruya¬An afternoon that doesn’t fail to impress.

During this time of year the UAE and Dubai enjoys perfect outdoor weather conditions for terrace, al fresco dining and RĂźya, Dubai offers just that! This stylish restaurant located at the Grosvenor House Hotel has a great open plan restaurant and a bar with terrace that is appealing for any brunch, or foodie enthusiast. RĂźya is now introducing its updated and refreshed brunch offering; The Grand Bazaar Brunch.

Previously, this brunch was part buffet and part al a carte, and like a normal brunch, this gave you plenty of options when it came to the starters and deserts. Going forward, the brunch now offers a full al a carte menu, and for me this is the best adjustment! I feel it now gives you a much more relaxed brunch experience, time to enjoy the company you share, and really immerse yourself in the social aspect of the brunch, as well as enjoy consistent food quality.

Having launched on February 2nd, this a la carte brunch offers guests a culinary journey through the entire menu, combined perfectly with prepared signature beverages. The relaxing

venue, small but cozy, is detailed with design and furniture, making it the perfect setting overlooking the marina.

One aspect definitely worth considering at RĂźya is that the staff always seem happy, relaxed and to really enjoy their work and interacting with the guests. We were greeted at the door with cheerful conversation about the restaurant and our waiter was more than happy to talk us through the food available on the menu and what is new. This is certainly something to consider when looking for an enjoyable experience for guests, family and friends.

Most importantly, onto the dining experience and food itself.. It has to be said, RĂźya never disappoints! Creating one of the best al a carte brunches in town is Colin Clague, a legendary chef in Dubai coming from Zuma and Qbara, Jean Georges. Starting off with a welcome drink from the Bloody Mary station an array of starter dishes shortly arrived to the table. Among some of the table favourites were the Olives Muhammra with roasted bread, Isli Palicari, Simit coated baby squid, Levrek, Borek, Gavurdagi. One example of how this Turkish restaurant is famous for its twist on traditional plates is the dish, Kuymak - usually

served plain without the Wild Mushrooms, Truffle & Cornbread Croutons – Kuymak is a meal from Turkey’s Black Sea Region. It is prepared with butter, cornflour and cheese, creating a fonduelike dish with a dense and stringy texture. It is typically served with bread. This delicious twist on traditional dishes is what makes this restaurant special!

I feel it is always nice when dining in a restaurant to understand some history behind the cuisine, and to understand a little about where the dishes originated from. I think it just adds a special experience to the food you are eating. When you are there make sure to ask for some history on the dishes you try. For example, Keskek -a traditional Turkish wedding dish. It is mainly made from wheat and meat. Families typically work to prepare the dish in huge cauldrons over an open fire and then serve it to their guests. Rituals accompany the making of the dish, called the Ceremonial Keskek Tradition. Many familys and community members take part in various roles from beating the wheat, saying blessings and prayers, to carrying the wheat, cooking it and adding musical performances! All that just for that one dish!

Moving onto the main course and you are provided with the option to choose from a selection of 5 - 6 dishes. For me you have to try the steak cooked with coffee and Zataar potato, it was very welcomed on our table anyway! It was prepared perfectly, a pleasure to see on the table and it tasted just as good. To be honest, I would have to say that all our dishes were perfectly cooked and prepared, and excellent thought had gone into the presentation. So, with mains finished we moved onto my favorite part, desert!

The Cikolata ve kahvesi is definitely worth a try, it was cleverly made, looked amazing and the taste will surely not let you down!

All round this brunch is definitely one to recommend! We were very happy with the whole dining experience, the food, the staff and the ambience, and with packages starting at as low as 299 AED for soft package, 399 AED for house beverages and 499 AED for bubbles inclusive of 5% VAT it is also super great value!

Rßya’s success also now sees it set to open shortly in Grosvenor House, London. Good luck we say!

Words by Stephen Donovan

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