TALAL BUDEBS Publisher CHARL CHAKA Managing Partner charlchaka@infusion.ae Sales/marketing magazine@infusion.ae
WE LOVE: Emaar Entertainment has opened a VR Park at The Dubai Mall. It combines Augmented Reality and Virtual Reality. Where do we sign up?
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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We love Dubai. Robots have been installed to help train autism students in the UAE. The Noodle House & Freedom Pizza enforced a brand-wide ban on plastic straws and cutlery at all their restaurants. YES!!!!
GUEST LIST Mad Men at Qwerty, Media One Hotel are offering all Gentleman every Monday from 6–8pm two complimentary sips. How nice. FOREIGN BEGGARS are playing at ON42 on 15th March and its Free Entry! Ace. Nikki Beach Dubai is celebrating their 2-year Anniversary in March, The Garden on 8 at Media One turned 3 recently & Cavalli is turning 10 this year. Happy Birthday Guys!
On Tuesdays at Moe’s, Infusion favorite DJ Somalie brings back the funky soul taking you back & moving you through a mixture of soul, jazz, rhythm and blues. Check it. UNITE with Tomorrowland is coming back to the UAE. Watch this space… Shout out to local DJ Soph-eye Richard who did a remix of DJ Prophecy’s ‘Cotola’ track. Good stuff, check it out on Traxsource.
Dubai Clubbing TV recently launched in UAE.
BLACK LIST International DJs who cancel their gig last minute leaving the promoter to pay the bill & eye all over his face. Not Cool At time of going to press DEEP LIKE was still looking for a home for their Thursday night. We keeping ear to the ground and look forward to their return. How many more BINGO nights are going to launch in Dubai? It seems to be the latest craze. Billionaire Mansion is loosing it’s “Midas Touch” according to TimeOut Dubai “The bottom line: The high-end nightspot is lacking a little sparkle” That awkward moment when the press release to the latest Urban night copy the lyrics of the “Fresh Prince of Bel Air” theme song.
Say What?
SHAUN WARNER HITS THE BILLBOARD Shouts to the man that is Shaun Warner. His musical career has been slowly but surely climbing, each year setting himself new goals musically. There has been a few milestone achieved by him as he is very ambitious, however recently he was surprised as he never thought he’d ever be seeing his name on the US Billboard Dance charts. Like he said “Its just the beginning” Infusion salutes you sir, keep it rocking!
#THROWBACK
Remember that time INFUSION TV interviewed AFROJACK? A young looking Olly Wood from Hollophonic caught up backstage at DXB Festival with Afrojack.
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LOOKING
BACK
Retrospective on what’s been happening in our world.
What we did RICK ROSS AT BASE NIGHTCLUB
Rick Ross came to Dubai to celebrate his birthday in style. The night started off with DJ Sadcat getting the crowd hyped up spinning old school hits like Ante Up by M.O.P., Kevin Lyttle Turn me On, and current hits like Tekno Pana and Drake. The crowd was engaged and having a great time. Fire shows took place in the center stage by lovely ladies and a gentlemen blowing fire which captivated the audience. Afterwards, a group of b-boys were breakdancing and doing windmills to Nas, Dr. Dre, Kriss Kross, and Black Sheep. Soon followed by an acrobat high above the stage. All this in getting the crowd hyped to see Rick Ross. Rick Ross did a dope performance by rapping over his classics Everyday I’m Hustling, Aston Martin, Dice Pineapples, Fu*k with Me You know I got it and I’m on One. He also dropped some new material from his new project Port of Miami. The entertainment that Base Nightclub offers is off the chain. Make sure you get a table to get in. Words by Ginger S
DUSTY’S NODJ
Located at Al Fattan Currency House, Level P, Dusty’s is a bar and restaurant known for its urbane setting combining wood décor with juxtaposed art and an ambiance of glowing lights and music. The staff was welcoming and enthusiastic, always engaging with the guests, Dusty’s has a variety of cocktails which are worth giving a go such as the # HashTagMe a drink that blends Kahlua, Bailey’s, and chocolate bitters will surely get people posting photos of it on their Instagram’s. The guest DJ played an extensive mix of music ranging from rock to reggae and techno, one of the highlight’s of the venue is the projection screen in the center which showcased retro black and white Disney cartoons adding to the easygoing atmosphere. The textural artwork that is present in the columns, walls, and restrooms give off the impression of being captured by numerous aspects from multiple pop culture eras. Altogether Dusty’s is a vibrant experience and sets itself apart as a captivating bar and restaurant in Dubai’s nightlife scene and is sure to attract the attention of people who want to be in a place where they can express their individuality in a nuanced environment. Words by Sasha Perrera
DUA LIPA ROCKS DU FORUM Brit awards female artist of the year made her first solo appearance in the UAE on Saturday 24th February 2018. The new Queen of Dark Pop enthralled fans as concert goers were mystified by the ‘New Rules’ singer’s killer vocals and outlandish stage style, for an unforgettable evening. Presented by du Live! and brought to you by FLASH Entertainment, it was yet another unmissable evening of live music. From the moment she entered the stage, the awardwinning artist had fans of all ages captivated as she rocked hit-after-hit from her much-loved first album. With empowering tunes on self-love and new-age romance, Dua Lipa’s show was a phenomenal showcase of raw talent that saw fans sing along to her anthem-inspiring lyrics. The British award-winning star gracefully ruled the stage, thanking the crowd between sets and sharing a special shout out to the hosting emirate. Finally the evening was brought to a memorable close with her newest sensation “IDGAF”.
RICK ROSS AT BASE
EATS EVERYTHING & NU AT BLUE MARLIN
Bingo Wings at McGettigan's With the recent bingo resurgence, mainly thanks to Bongo's Bingo in the UK taking off in a big way, McGettigan's JLT have launched their hilariously-titled, "Bingo Wings" on a Tuesday night. So forgoing the usual overpriced/ underdelivering Valentines Day-themed shenanigans, we headed over last week to check it out with some friends.
First off, it's not your traditional bingo sesh - instead of "legs eleven" and "two fat ladies", you're given a sheet featuring 90 hit songs throughout the ages and in place of the balls being called out, an excerpt of the song is played by the DJ and it's your job to find the
corresponding number and mark it on the sheet. It's great fun frantically trying to remember the artist/title and gives the night partly a "pub quiz" feel - perfect for groups of different generations! For 100 AED, you get two house drinks, two bingo cards and unlimited buffalo chicken wings throughout the evening - and by unlimited, I'm talking "I-neverrealised-I-could-get-to-the-point-where-I-can-barelymove-from-eating-wings" unlimited. It's exceptional value and exceptional fun; a little bit rowdy, a little bit lairy (especially when people claim a "full-house" and are incorrect {"WHO ARE YER.... WHO ARE YER"}) and by the end of the night, it was almost a group-wide karaoke session, the whole room blasting out "Barbie Girl", "Livin' on a Prayer" and "Mambo No. 5" at the tops of voices whilst seeking the elusive full house. So round up your friends and join the party - with chances to win free brunches, buckets of beers and breakfasts, it would be criminal not to! Words by Dan Fahy
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Inviting all the Queen Bees This March, get ready to experience a night of absolute royal fun at Observatory Bar & Grill. Enjoy Queen-privileges from tiaras to free flowing sparkling bubbly all-night. Get into the role with your Queen squad and catch up with the girls, overlooking Palm Jumeirah and Marina or dance the night away with DJ Alona’s trendy mixes. Indulge in the ‘Only for a Queen’ menu featuring crafted cocktails and delicious bites. EVERY MONDAY, FROM 8PM – MIDNIGHT
DUBAI MARRIOTT HARBOUR HOTEL & SUITES King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai Marina, PO Box 66662, Dubai, UAE T. 971.4.319.4000 marriottharbourdubaidining.com | eatatharbour@marriott.com Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites observatorydubai #queenssocial
LOOKING
FORWARD
Where we filter out the best things that are coming your way...
CIELO PRESENTS DJ AHMET KILIC International Deep House DJ takes to the decks for first performance at one of the trendiest rooftop bars in Dubai, Cielo Sky Lounge, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. Deep house fans, get ready for the arrival of the biggest party in town. Promising jaw dropping views, incredible tunes, crafty drinks, and laidback vibes, Dubai’s trendiest outdoor bar is hosting deep house legend DJ Ahmet Kilic for one night to kick off the ultimate party weekend on the 29th of March. Born in Bulgaria and raised in Turkey, Ahmet is known for his residency in one of the biggest clubs in Izmir called “Club Marina”. Coming in all the way from Turkey for an explosive performance and a memorable party night. Arrive early and sip on expert mixology creations as the sun goes down, and watch the ultra-chic rooftop bar effortlessly transform into a high-octane party destination for the night.The party starts at 9pm!
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
VOGUE MIDNIGHT POOL PARTIES
Make the most of the night and extend the party long into the evening every Saturday from 8pm until late at the stylish, Azure Beach, Rixos Premium, JBR: Their resident DJ and dancers will keep funky vibes & hip hop beats going as you dance under the stars all night long. You may even take a midnight dip in the pool too. A perfect way to the end a weekend in our books!
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
STEP CONFERENCE 2018
Step Conference for 2018 has revealed their plans of the event takeover from the 28th - 29th March, including; 5 content stages, 4 industry-focused conferences and more than 200 speakers! The region’s largest tech and experiential conference is set to get a whole new look for its sixth edition and the exciting new format of the region’s favourite tech festival promises to be better than ever! Alongside the popular keynote speeches and signature STEP features taking place on the main stage, there will be four new industry-focused stages; STEP Start, Step X, Step Money and Step Digital. And ofcourse the STEP Conference program will include food trucks, market vendors, street artists, gamers and will conclude on both days with a diverse lineup of musical performances from some of the region’s best talent! CLICK HERE FOR INFO
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FREE STAND-UP COMEDY FOR PREGNANT WOMEN
Long-running stand-up comedy institution The Laughter Factory is offering complimentary comedy to expecting mothers to mark this month’s International Women’s Day - because research has proved happy mums, make happy babies! Comics featuring throughout the month will be Irish comedian Eleanor Tiernan, happy go lucky comedian Marlon Davis and Michael Fabbri, who was described as “Exceptionally funny, extremely sharp, hugely enjoyable.” by The Scotsman. The shows will commence on 8PM March 7th at Park Rotana AUH, 9PM March 8th at Grand Millennium Barsha Heights and finally 9PM March 9th that Moevenpick, JBR. So, Mum’s to be make sure to shape your health and mood for the better with a little help from The Laughter Factory this month, afterall it will do those little buns in the oven a whole world of good! CLICK HERE FOR INFO
White Soirée
WEAR YOUR CHIC WHITES TO THIS EXCLUSIVE AND ELEGANT DINING EXPERIENCE. BE DAZZLED WITH DELICIOUS FOOD, CHILLED AMBIANCE AND A BEAUTIFUL CROWD. 29th MARCH 2018 | 6PM TO 10PM AED 395 PER PERSON, ALL-INCLUSIVE
BOOK YOUR SEATS VIA WWW.PLATINUMLIST.NET For more details, call +971 4 414 3000 Dress-Code: elegant white | Age Policy: 21 years and above
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE | T +971 4 414 3000 | jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | JWDubaiMarquis | JWMarriottMarquisDubai
NEW BAAR TO REPLACE THE MUSIC ROOM Bar Baar at Majestic Hotel, Bur Dubai opened its door in February to replace The Music Room. The lively day-night hotspot will be enticing customers with weekly 10 dirham drink deals! That’s right, you read that correctly, a regular feature every Tuesday at Bar Baar will see 10 dirham drinks offered for everyone, not just you ladies! With deals this good, great food and beverages, and a winning atmosphere, people are sure to keep coming back ‘Again and Again’ (Bar Baar’s literal meaning in Hindi)! Open from 12pm – 3am daily guests will be able to work and mingle socially, while enjoying the famous Indian café bar hospitality. In the evening and long in to the night, the venue is transformed in to a new home of entertainment with bands, comedians and live DJ.
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
LA CALA PRESENTS
THE HOUSE THAT LOVE BUILT, INTRODUCING WEEKLY INTERNATIONAL DJS! La Cala, Boutique Beach Bar, presents The House That Love Built brunch every Friday from 12pm, bringing the best international DJs from the world’s most renowned party destinations. Whether you are looking to join just for the party, or wish to go all out for the Balearic brunch (an Infusion recommendation may we add) all are welcome! For Brunch goers, mediterranean sharing sides, stone-bake pizzas and BBQ al fresco favourites are awaiting you, a-long with a heavenly three-hour flowing package of signature sips, cool cocktails, pints, pitchers and vino. If you need anymore reason to give this beautiful little spot a try, then check out who they have got lined up for you for the month of March‌
Resident Showcase - Fri 9th March With the last minute date change of No Regular Play, until later on in the year, the team behind The House That Love Built at La Cala have decided to host a local special. THTLB will invite some of their favourite Dubai residents to join for a music collective , bringing together a variety of sounds from different genres and styles
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Maxxi – Soundsystem: Fri 16th March DJ/Producer and Promoter from the UK, Sam Watts, aka Maxxi – Soundsystem exploded onto our airways back in 2011 with club hit ‘Criticize’ after being featured on Annie Mac ‘s well-known UK Radio1 radio show. As the son of a jazz pioneer, a career in music really was the only choice for Sam and he spent many years working hard to establish himself, DJing and putting on parties in his hometown of Brighton. After his initial success the follow up single was the first track on Nurvous Records (a new label from NYC), the track ‘Open Your Eyes’ on Jamie Jones Hot Waves Label and EP on needwant records saw huge support from Radio1’s Jaymo & Andy George – naming him as a future star! Maxxi Soundsystem has already toured extensively, clocking up an impressive list of club and festival appearances at the likes of Glastonbury, Glade
festival, Creamfields and Fabric to name just a few! He’s proved he can rock any dancefloor that’s put in front of him; playing a set made up of his own edits and remixes plucked from his years of experience playing in clubs. In tandem with his DJ career, his clubfocused productions have been signed to a number of influential and highly regarded labels including Defected, Hypercolour, Moda Black, Maceo Plex’s Ellum and the mighty Nervous. Maxxi Soundsystem currently stands at a crucial and exhilarating point in his career, don’t miss him in action at La Cala, March 16th 3:30pm - 6:30pm. Joining for the party will require a small entrance fee of just AED 80, where 2 drinks can be redeemed from the brunch menu and for the Balearic brunch you can opt for either the AED 249 package for house beverages, or AED499 for sparkling. See you there for Sangria by the Soundsystem! CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Barasti Beach is Set to Host EDM Festival of 2018, and it’s FREE!
Following last year’s record breaking crowds, Smirnoff Sound Collective is set to return to Barasti Beach this April with another epic weekend, bringing the best of global EDM to the Middle East. From Thursday 5th April to Saturday 7th April, in true festival style, Smirnoff will be putting on an incredible show with a line-up of heavy-hitting headliners and an amazing support line-up across the three days. This global initiative brings diversity to dance music and is set to be one of the biggest festivals in 2018. Get ready to experience the best line up to a free music event in the UAE, welcoming Quintino; a highly talented Dutch DJ and Producer and one of the leading forces in the global dance music scene today, Yves V; a Belgian big-room headliner who’s music has been filling the playlists of the biggest DJs on the planet, including David Guetta, Afrojack and Martin Garrix, Dante Klein, and many others who have built huge followings globally and have headlined the largest festivals in the world, including, Tomorrowland, Ultra, Electric Daisy Carnival and Creamfields. Smirnoff Sound Collective aims to celebrate, promote and inspire diversity in the wide realm of electronic music. In 2017, Smirnoff Sound Collective broke records, with over 30,000 party people hitting Barasti Beach for the festival. Entrance is free and doors open at 8PM on the Thursday and 2PM on the Friday and Saturday with both Thursday and Friday keeping the party going long into the night until 3AM. CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Don’t Miss the Maestro!
The names and the weather just got hotter, making Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE the perfect spot to start your weekend. Colorful cuisine and drinks will be served as awe inspiring international DJ’s fly in for what can only be described as an unmissable month ahead! From raw Ibiza energy to top techno talent, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE has got us covered!
On Friday, March 09th the sounds of true selector Skream are here, alongside the hotly tipped, high energy duo of Solardo and Dubai favorite Raxon, showcasing his bass heavy reputation. Later on, internationally renowned Kaluki Musik tunes will fill the air with Kaluki Resident DJs Pirate Copy, Pete Zorba and Calvin Clarke ready to round up this unbelievable lineup! CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Friday, March 16th will see two major German names take to the stage and takeover the terrace. The expert curator, Chris Liebing with his pure techno talent, alongside the Kollektiv Turmstrasse duo, set to bless the decks with their rhythm and raw emotional sounds.
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Moving into the second half of the month, Friday, March 23rd will set scene to the sophisticated deep house of Ă‚me DJ who will be bringing some serious Innervision sounds to the floor, alongside the revered melody man himself, Stephan Bodzin (Live). The icon is set to cast his story telling, hypnotic groove over the night with an unbelievable live set.
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Last but certainly not least, on Friday March 30th prepare to witness the visionary, legendary and undoubted father of techno, Papa Sven Väth arrive to share an unmissable electronic spectacle, with the colorful and unique beats of DC10 resident Gerd Janson firing up the UAE crowd for the very first time.
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
All in all, all the elements you require to recharge, soak up the sun and indulge in pure music heaven are awaiting you at Blue Marlin Ibiza, UAE this month! You know what to do!
Paradise
COMES TO BLUE MARLIN IBIZA UAE
Just when you thought you’ve experienced it all, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE announces it’s set to host Ibiza’s biggest party series, Paradise in the UAE for the very first time on April 6th 2018! Created by Ibiza icon DJ Jamie Jones, Paradise was a concept built to embrace its dwellers in a 360 music nirvana and since it’s unprecedented success at its birthplace, Ibiza’s popular outdoor club DC10, the party has shaken the grounds below some of the world’s most epic party cities, from Ibiza and Miami to Amsterdam and Manchester, and now the phenomenon is jolting its way to the shores of Al Ghantoot, UAE.
If we’re honest we are not surprised that the UAE’s original Balearic beach club, was chosen to host this globally known brand, the club has played host to countless international party brands over the years, and it just keeps getting better and better!
“We’re happy to be Jamie Jones’ exclusive partners in the region. He trusts our vision and we trust his gift to the world of house music. It was only a matter of time until the Ibiza party would come to visit our shores!” – Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE Management
Appropriately, leading the DJ roster is Paradise’s mastermind, Jamie Jones himself. Jamie describes Paradise as a state of complete surrender to music, visuals, and energy creating an experience for the ultimate divine pleasure.
“For me to be in true paradise is to be lost in the moment visually sonically. With Paradise, we try to bring the aesthetical pleasure that comes with amazing colors, amazing shapes, amazing surroundings, and add the perfect soundtrack to an experience and a moment that’s dedicated to audio and video stimulation”- Jamie Jones
The Hot Creations artist will be joined by top of the line guest DJs who will be announced very soon. But bearing in mind Paradise has been previously associated with world renowned DJs including Adam Beyer, Joseph Capriati, Richie Ahmed, Guy Gerber, Martinez Brothers, Mathew Jonson, Skream, and Carl Craig, amongst others, its surely something to be excited about! Get ready for a day to night ethereal fantasy that will take over the whole Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE, spanning right down from The Golden Tulip pool and all the way to the shore!
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
A coffee with Blue Marlin Management Infusion sat down with Blue Marlin Management over a coffee with a few questions on hand about their season
The month of March looks pretty epic at Blue Marlin, can you tell us a little about the ideas behind the lineups. March is a big month for us, so we needed an equally big lineup to match. We have some live performances by Stephan Bodzin and Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE favorites like Sven Vath and Ame are also coming back to our venue. Planning these massive events and curating our DJ lineup every month is still an exciting process for us even with this season’s challenge of flying in all of our client’s favored artists given shorter season due to Ramadan starting earlier
Blue Marlin is always changing its venue, décor and layout, what can we look forward to this season? We constantly try to mix up and change different elements of the venue season after season. It’s part of our continuous reinvention, that reflects the staff’s creativity and really all the effort that goes into every single weekend and every single event. From events managers, to production, dancers and performers, costumes and props, it’s really one big theatre with a lot going on behind the scenes! Of course we’ve added lots of new design elements into our venue, and we’ve upped the game even more with more upscale touches in the washroom, the terrace and the beach. The main goal is to give patrons a well thought out experience, that lasts from day to night. We also now have a beautiful green canopy covering the restaurant on the 2nd level, really reminiscent of the foresty vibes in the original Blue Marlin in Ibiza, which adds a charming and mystical vibe to your dining experience. We will soon be announcing a MAJOR new structure in our venue, but you will have to wait and see to find out!
What was the highlight moment from the 2018 season for you so far? The year has only started but we already had big events and people can expect more to come. To compliment, we made some changes in our set up to elevate the overall experience for our guests. We brought the DJ booth down as winter set up to create a unique cozy experience - so the DJ is right next to the crowd, creating a more intimate and integrated environment. You always support the local scene by booking guest local DJs for some of your nights, you doing that again this season? Yes, we love supporting local artists! We have so much talent in this region and we are happy to give them the platform to showcase their art. It’s amazing to see the dynamic between our local DJs against international heavyweights. Afterall, we are located in the UAE, an emerging hub of artists, talents, and masters in their craft, why not show the world what we are harboring here?
Can you give us a sneak peak about acts in April/ May? We have just announced really big news, as we will be bringing one of Ibiza’s most legendary party, PARADISE by Jamie Jones, to our venue in April. It’s the edgiest party in Ibiza right now with a young, beautiful, and cool crowd. It’s what the hipsters and music lovers want to associate themselves with and has now become a strong brand on an international level. We had a huge demand for this event to happen in the region, and we made it our mission to introduce it with a different BMI UAE format. We’ll have the pool operation upstairs for the 1st time and will extend our operation timings with 14-15 hours of festival style non-stop music. Anyone who knows anything about music and the world’s most legendary parties, knows about PARADISE and we are so honored to have such a close relationship with Jamie Jones, as it will be the first time this event comes to the UAE. The full day festival style party will start from the Golden Tulip pool upstairs and extend into the main venue downstairs with the biggest guest DJs you can think of. Also after the success of Burning Beach, we will also be introducing a new exciting party concept called Kandy Factory. It’s inspired by the movie Charlie and The Chocolate Factory so people can expect insane production and a spectacular dress up party that will stand out from the rest. It will be the Golden Ticket everyone will be talking about. So there you have it folks! It looks to be another great season down at Blue Marlin. Get those dancing shoes ready! CLICK HERE FOR INFO
DO YOU KNOW BLACK COFFEE?
Considering his meteoric rise to fame, it would be easy to stereotype Black Coffee as just another black diamond, a BEE beat magnet out to mine the insatiable upwardly mobile urban house party market. But as he proved on his South African Music Award-winning album “Home Brewed�, this DJ and producer defies convention. Currently considered one of the most prominent electronic music producers in the continent & he is back in Dubai on Thu 29th March at BASE
INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT BLACK COFFEE • DJ Black Coffee’s real name is Nkosinathi Maphumulo, was born in Durban, South Africa and he turns 42 on 11th March. • Unfortunately for the ladies, he married beautiful actress Mbali Mlotswa on 13th May 2011. • He started his career back in 1994 when he was still in High School, singing in the school choir and studying the keyboard. • While studying Music at Natal Technikon, he developed his skills and formed the band ‘Shana’ that went ob to release 4 albums. • In 2003 he was chosen as one of two South African participants in the Red Bull Music Academy, which jump-started his career in the SA music DJ scene. • He scooped a South African Music Award at the 16th Annual SAMA Awards in 2006 for the Best Urban Dance Album, "Home Brewed" • He lost the use of his left arm at age 13 whiles celebrating the release of Nelson Mandela a speeding vehicle ran over the crowd, injuring him.
• He set a world record for the longest DJ set (60 hours) using one arm in 2010. • In 2009 he announced that 5% of all the album sales from his record label, Soulistic Music, would be donated to charity. • One of Black Coffee’s most inspirational moves was when he established a foundation called DJ Black Coffee Foundation, uplifting and assisting people with disabilities. • He loves his family & kids who regularly show up on his Instagram stories feed. • In Sept 2015 he was named "Breakthrough Dj Of The Year". • On 23 October 2015, his “Pieces of Me” album went platinum in South Africa. • At the end of 2016 he was named 91st on Resident Advisor's top 100 DJ's list encompassing all professional DJ's. • In 2017 Black Coffee’s “Superman" song was reworked for the playlist track, "Get It Together" on Drake’s album "More Life" • Infusion Magazine has asked him to run for the President in South Africa, which he politely declined ;-) Catch DJ Black Coffee at BASE on Thu, 29th March
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
CHRIS LIEBING
KOLLEKTIV TURMSTRASSE MARCH
16 2018
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Head of Dance FM Digby Taylor Reveals The Beat Behind Newest Station Heart 107.1
Digby Taylor has an accomplished history in media and broadcasting; beginning his career in the United Kingdom, he has accrued a wealth of experience, directing, managing and presenting on some of the UK and UAE’s most reputable stations. Previously acting as operations manager for Gulf News and long-standing presenter of Drive Time on Radio 2, Digby most recently joined Shock Middle East in April 2016 to serve as operations manager and head of Dance FM 97.8.
Infusion took the time to chat with Digby, on establishing the cutting-edge media trading and broadcast company; Shock Middle East, successfully launching the regions first dance radio station, the beat behind Heart 107.1, and the future growth plans for the company. Did you experience any difficulties in the process of setting up Shock Middle East? What were your challenges? The set-up process was very smooth, we knew the format we intended to broadcast would have an immediate effect. The main challenge was finding the right location for the studios and office complex; however we found the right place in the heart of Dubai Media City. How much of an obstacle was ARN and trying to ‘steal’ their listeners? ARN has established brands that everyone is familiar with, our intention was to find a segment of the available audience that was not being catered for and deliver an amazing radio station to fill the gap. What makes Heart 107.1 different to the rest of the radio stations out there? We looked at the audience demographics and decided on a format that was not being broadcast…it’s called Hot AC and our programming is very focused on “Feel Good”…making the day a little better with the music we play.
Tell me more about the presenters at Heart 107.1? We all know that great presenters are key for radio stations, so how do you ensure to pick the right ones? This is the key to everything, finding the right people. I have developed a formula over the years for discovering talent to suit our radio brands, how I do it?...Top Secret! You guys are great on social media – it looks like you have so much fun in the studio. Is it always that much fun behind the scenes? It’s even more fun behind the scenes, all our stations have presenters that have become great friends, they all love being On Air, entertaining and that is what cuts through. How are people responding to Heart 107.1? The response is exceptional, from when we first discussed the music, I knew we had something special, but from the second we went On Air, it became apparent that we had a winner. The engagement has been great, and grows every day. What are your plans for Shock Middle East in the future? Are there any more radio stations in the pipeline? We set out from day one to build a Network because we believed it was time the country had something that was not so pedestrian, so in answer to more stations to come? Watch this space! So it looks like Digby has a proven formula for success, and a keen driving force behind Shock Middle East!
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
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ON THE RADAR
PHASE (METALHEADZ) THU 8TH MARCH - BASSWORX
AME DJ & STEPHAN BODZIN FRI 23RD MARCH - BLUE MARLIN
MARTIN SOLVIEG THU 15TH MARCH. - GOTHA
RAG‘N’BONE MAN FRI, 23RD MARCH - DUBAI OPERA
FIFTH HARMONY FRI 16TH, MARCH - DU FORUM
BLACK COFFEE THU, 29TH MARCH - BASE
JORIS VOORN THU, 22ND MARCH, DRAI’S CLUB
SVEN VATH & GERD JANSON FRI, 30TH MARCH - BLUE MARLIN
ON THE RADAR
DENNIS CRUZ FRI, 30TH MARCH - ZERO GRAVITY
DONETSK OPERA & BALLET FRI, 20TH APRIL - EMIRATES PALACE
BEDOUIN TECH 27 –31 MARCH
BACKSTREET BOYS FRI 20TH APRIL - BLENDED MUSIC FESTIVAL
RONY SEIKALY THU, 5TH APRIL - BASE
GOODLUCK FRI 27TH APRIL - BBQ SOCIAL, JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE
PAUL VAN DYK THU 5TH APRIL - ZERO GRAVITY
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Music be the food of love, so read on...
RONE JAXX: AROUND TOWN
Rone Jaxx is known as one of the sole pioneers of Hip hop in the Middle East & has inspired thousands in the region. He joins Infusion Magazine on a monthly basis to give us the lowdown on whats hot in the Urban scene….. BOOMROOM AT STEREO ARCADE BoomRoom at Stereo Arcade, Doubletree By Hilton Hotel JBR is a good alternative Urban night with local DJs Andy Swift & DJ Styles on rotation playing new and old school vibes including throwbacks of Funk, Soul, Rnb & Hip hop every Thursday, Friday, Saturday & Sunday from 6pm – 3am.The door policy is Free Entrance for ladies & Couples , mixed groups & Reservations CLICK HERE FOR INFO
RAMUSAKE AT DOUBLETREE BY THE HILTON JBR Every Wednesdays is Ladies Night served with top notch Japanese classic food with a modern twist. Expect Urban throwbacks from the 90s & 2000s with beats supplied by Soul Ninja. No caps or head gear of any kind permitted CLICK HERE FOR INFO
NEW FLAVAZ/CLUB STOMPAZ Kendrick Lamar: All The Stars (Aftermath/ Interscope) Genre : HipHop/Funk This is a dope Funk and Hip Hop jam by Kendrick ft Sza from his upcoming “Black Panther” Music inspired film Album and will also be featured on the Soundtrack. Shouts to Kendrick for keeping those west coast and cultural vibes alive . Fergie Ft Nicki Minaj: You Already Know : Dutchess / BMG Genre : HipHop/NewJackSwing/ Funk This track hasn’t got the play or chart success that it deserves, maybe because it has an old school feel to it and the majority of consumers are used to electronic and synthesized sounds so when they actually hear an organic live drum or sample, they associate it with a feeling of being old but neverthelesss it’s a dope club jam and maybe future classic - strictly because of the Music Production sampling Lynn Collins Thinks .
Drake: Gods Plan (OVO sound //Young Money/ Universal) I was never a big Drake fan but I respected him as an artist, along with his commercial hits he did have some lyrical and metaphorically smart songs with various Hip Hop drum patterns, however this is a feel good party jam off his surprise EP “Scary Hours” where drake discusses his future and his haters plus him giving away almost a million dollars to charities and families in need within a Miami’ poor district while shooting the video.
DITC: DIGGIN IN THE CRATES/THE CRATES PUBLIC ENEMY (Def jam Columbia 91) - Cant’t Truss It One of my favorite PE jams and a must have for any vinyl or Urban Music connoisseur, with heavy hitting Hip Hop drums and a legit political message from their 91 Album “Apocalypse 91 – The Ememy Strikes Black.
Lost Boyz - Me and my crazy World (Uptown/ Universal 1997) Another gem from the crates from their second Album ‘Love peace & Nappiness’ a very underrated track by an underrated rapper, Mr cheeks and his Story telling Flow is on par with any Rap Legend.
Done Jones - The One You need ( Mobb Deep Remix) (Laface 1996) The classic Herbie Hancock sample used here to its fullest from Donnel’s Debut Album ‘My Heart’. Done Jones’s sensual smooth voice on this grimey beat just go so well together and always end up giving me nostalgia and goose bumps if played on a proper system.
DJ TORAIZ SP-16 BY PIONEER & DAVE SMITH Pioneer has already proven they run the professional DJ market many a times specially with their PLX1000 Direct Drive turn tables which to me feels and plays like an updated Technics 1210. With this sampler is basically un updated AKai MPC Player and which is “Stand Alone” (Yes I said stand alone) Anyone who knows their stuff is aware that all the last MPC’s by Akai relied on a computer or laptop connection unlike the old Akai which was stand alone and you had the ability to sample anything anywhere or along with a musical recording you could make a whole track. Well that’s exactly what Pioneer have done here. They have given you a well sized digital sampler with a ‘Dave Smith Analog Filter’ The best thing for me: sometimes less is more and when it comes to sampling and quick hands on beat making, this a perfect piece of gear to have handy for any type of music producer.
DDJ-1000 DEDICATED REKORDBOX DJ CONTROLLER
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BOX-TALK with the BOXTONES
March Madness is here! This issue has The Boxtones talking about a TASTY gig to attend, a brand new music video from a FUNKY bunch of guys and a serious piece of equipment each BASS player should think of getting! GIG-TALK Thursday, March 8th - Sister Sledge aka “The Disco Divas” are performing for ONE NIGHT ONLY at this year’s Taste of Dubai Festival at Media City Amphitheater.
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BAND-TALK Our brothers from other mothers - and the newest addition to the Universal Music MENA family - Carl & The Reda Mafia have released a brand new music video “Confession” from their debut EP. Head on over to their Vevo channel and enjoy their new single!
TECH-TALK Marcus Miller V/M/P Bass Guitar by Sire (PHOTO BY WALEED SHAH FROM PARTY IN THE PARK 2017) – Not only does our bassist Pat keep raving about the insanely low price for such an incredible sounding electric bass guitar, but he’s also convinced our singer/songwriter Gary to pick up one as well for writing demos for the new album! And in case you don’t know who Marcus Miller is, he’s appeared on over 500 albums with the likes of Michael Jackson, Mariah Carey, Frank Sinatra, Elton John and many, many more!
Write on How to write your DJ bio… Words by Andy Buchan
DJing is much more than just music. It’s about how you promote yourself, and a large part of that is your biography – for many potential promoters/bookers, it’s their first introduction to you. Here’s a classic example in how not to write it which quickly went viral last year, followed by some tips on what you should do.
How Not To Do It “Andy Whitby is not just a hard house DJ, he is an experience. He is a state of mind. He is the transporter of minds and souls to an amazing frantic paradise that, while leaving you knackered, strangely also leaves you feeling re-invigorated. At 6ft tall and broad-shouldered, with his trademark shaved head, a chunky ostentatious chain around his neck, and immaculate dress sense (if it’s not designer, it doesn’t go anywhere near him) he makes an imposing figure who commands respect.
His confident appearance is matched by his masterful control of a good mixing desk. Before each set he always powers down the previous track and leads the packed dance floor in a show of appreciation for the out-going DJ, before kick-starting his performance into a blaze of visuals, an orchestra of special effects which extracts every quality beat of each track as he begins his show. To watch Andy DJ is part of the Whitby experience. Cocky? Perhaps, but certainly not arrogant, Whitby is now in control of the minds and bodies of his audience. A very precise and confident body language gives a visual indication to what he is playing as he acts out each track. Yet, he is not dancing; this is something far more emotional. Imagine watching a porn star having hot, rough, yet passionate but dominating sex to a breathless, wailing lover which, in this case, comes in the shape of a mixing desk. Forceful, dominant, aggressive yet somehow tender and caring. The visual impact allows your body to further immerse itself in the ecstasy he is submitting you to; your ears alone cannot possibly absorb everything that he is throwing at you."
How To Do It STEP 1
Write down all your DJ achievements in ranking order. If you’ve played at Creamfields, that goes at the top. If you’ve played at your Dad’s 50th, that doesn’t go anywhere near the list. Then write down a list of any releases/remixes you’ve had, again in descending order.
STEP 2
What makes you unique, what makes you stand out from other DJs? Do you have a broader range of music, are you a skilled decknician, can you cut and scratch, or do you play something no one else does? Write down what it is, and try not to make yourself sound like a prick in the process.
STEP 3
Get some testimonials. Press cuttings and quotes are best, but if not, ask previous club owners, promoters,
fellow DJs for quotes about you and your performance. If you turned up, vomited on their decks and punched the promoter’s girlfriend, then you might not want to go there…
STEP 4
List all your internet homes, with FB, Soundcloud, Mixcloud, personal email.
STEP 5
Compile Step 1-4 in order, in 4 separate paragraphs. Congratulations, you now have a bio.
Alternatively, you can get in touch with info@ infusion.ae, and we’ll get our Andy Buchan from our editorial team to custom write your biography for you, giving you a creative spin, and taking the stress out of promoting yourself.
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Opinions, thoughts and gibberish...
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Gadgets
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What we ate
THE PLAZA IN CENTRAL PARK TOWERS
The opening event was kicked off with an amazing band and selective crowd, while we enjoyed Dubai from all angles at the Plaza in Central Park Towers in DIFC. The dÊcor is simple yet sleek and classy and is situated in between the two Central Park Towers. One tower is dedicated to luxury residential and the other tower is dedicated to retail which houses new Brazilian restaurant Fogo De Chao, and Starbucks to name a few. It’s a perfect place to wine and dine and enjoy the atmosphere of DIFC. The buildings make a nice addition to the skyline and the outside plaza that joins the two buildings can be used for various events or just to chill outside for the day. Words by Ginger S
Culinary D elights During the month of March, JW Marriot Marquis will be offering a culinary delights at their restaurants. Infusion has a closer look and what they have planned
RESTAURANT WEEK: Get ready to experience flavors from over 10 different gastronomies with the launch of JW Marriott Marquis Dubai Restaurant Week! From the 25th – 31st March enjoy special set-menus across selected restaurants and bars, with fine to casual dining on offer, there is sure to be something to suit all tastes! Prices start at just AED 130 per person, for food only at trendy sports bar Bridgewater Tavern, and outdoor terrace Café Artois, French restaurant La Farine Café & Bakery, and Aqua Poolside Grill & Bar. For Casual dining: AED 160 per person, for food only at Japanese restaurant Izakaya, Italian restaurant Positano, or Peruvian restaurant Garden. Lastly for something a little more lavish, the fine dining menu is just AED 190 per person for food only at juicy Prime68 steakhouse, Tong Thai and finally Indian restaurant Rang Mahal by Atul Kochhar. CLICK HERE FOR INFO
WHITE SOIRÉE AT AQUA:
On Thursday, March 29th immerse yourself amongst the city’s trendsetters for a night to remember! From 6-10pm Aqua’s pool deck will be transformed into a chic evening for an all-white dining experience. You can expect amazing ambience, delicious food, great views, unique beverages, live music and the absolute best crowd! AED 395 per person, including food and house beverages.
VAULT, LADIES NIGHT: Enter through the gold Vault doors and unlock the secrets of this effortlessly cool space. From delicious crafted beverages to wines and spirits, ladies will be treated to three complimentary drinks on Tuesdays from 8pm until midnight.
CLICK HERE FOR INFO
PRIME68 PRIME RIB SUNDAYS: Enjoy a 20 oz Prime Rib (per person), served with baked potato and horseradish cream and jus, and complemented with a bottle of selected red or white wine. Every Sunday from sunset until midnight for AED 695 per couple. EARLY BIRD OFFER: Take advantage of the ‘Early Bird offer’ at this award-winning steakhouse and enjoy Chef’s selection of signature dishes paired with the sunset views from the World’s Tallest Hotel. Daily from 6pm until 7pm AED 200 per person for a three-course set-menu.
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TONG THAI
ONE NIGHT IN BANGKOK: Add some zest from the Thai capital to your midweek with a special themed set menu that draws inspiration from the delicacies of Bangkok. AED 180 per person for set menu every Wednesday, from 6pm until midnight. THAI JOURNEY EXPERIENCE: Take your taste buds on a culinary journey through Thailand with a 5-course experience set menu, tailored for two including a signature cocktail each. Offer available daily (except Wednesdays) from 6pm until midnight AED 590 per couple. CLICK HERE FOR INFO
TOKYO NIGHTS AT IZAKAYA In honour of “Omakase”, a Japanese tradition of letting a Chef choose your order, every Monday from 6pm to midnight immerse yourself in a vibrant Japanese setting and allow the culinary team to dexterously craft your dining experience. Its AED 300 per person for the Omakase regular menu & AED 450 per person for the Omakase premium menu. CLICK HERE FOR INFO
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E RISK!
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Round and round with Salina Bakaou Story of a girl and a few plastic rings… Not to sound too cliché from the beginning, However sometimes life will you give you exactly what you need and not necessarily what you want. The first time I picked up a hula hoop, I couldn’t do it to save my life , I tried and I tried and it just wouldn’t come naturally. I spent the next couple of days trying to manoeuvre this oversized plastic ring around my waist. Then it happened. Finally ! this thing was going round in circles and "ooo the joy" that I felt at that moment was like nothing I ever felt before. And my next thought was, 'oo what else can I do?' My life just spun in a completely different direction from that day onwards.
Fast forward to 3 years later, I get to perform and share my passion for it with everyone. The Hoop life is real, constantly trying to work on something new, trying to get better than the day before, and it is all because of that first failed attempt. Perhaps if had nailed it at the first try, I might never have felt the need to keep exploring and my journey would've ended on that same night. That is a scary thought. I guess what I am trying to say is , sometimes the greatest gifts come in the most odd thorn covered packages. I’m writing this on valentines Day lol. Open them anyway. I feel blessed that I never gave up when it got hard and I am able to love the life I lead and lead the life I love. Plus I get to sprinkling a little fairy dust along the way! Lots of love and light and all things nice, Salina Bakaou CLICK HERE FOR INFO
Eat Sleep Rave Repeat La Cala: The House That Love Built Brunch
Is it me or have we finally reached the end of winter? I know it’s only mid February but it’s certainly feeling a lot warmer out, ok it’s not quite scorchio just yet but definitely nice enough to give my arms & legs some fresh air. If you agree then there’s only one place to head for your weekend brunch fix and that’s La Cala in Ghantoot. Now La Cala isn’t your usual UAE hangout, forget getting all dressed up like you’re off to Meydan for the World Cup, think Balearic chic rather than full bib & tucker for the polo, so relax, find your groove, sit down by the side of the water & sink into your seat & a jug of Sangria, it’s the perfect start. Not only is the vibe a leisurely affair, so are the brunch timings, pop in whenever you want during the afternoon & enjoy a 3hr window, this is great for people like me who find the whole ‘prompt start at 1pm’ a little regimented, plus it’s nice having a flow of people and gives the place a buzz. Drinks ordered & the first courses arrive, all plates to share & all look fantastic to my eye, the tuna glistens, the calamari & chicken satay look succulent & the burrata with roasted tomato pops in the sunlight, not literally obviously, more the colours on the plate dance, all ready for us to devour. I dig into the squid first, its light crumb gives a satisfying crunch,
the flesh inside still soft & juicy, I don’t think anyone could have cooked it any better, plus the dipping sauce packed a punch & warmed the inside of my mouth as I chewed. Onto the chicken, again a light touch with the cooking has resulted in moist chicken but with little burn edges here & there that give it a fuller BBQ taste, lovely. I grab some flatbread & scoop up some gooey cheese & tomatoness, this along with the herb oil would transport anyone back to sitting on a beach somewhere in the Mediterranean as the wind blows gently through the tables & the sun starts to push through. The only disappointment for me was the tuna tartare, in itself it was solid but was a little lost amongst the big flavours on the other plates which is a shame, maybe if they had bought that out first with some bread & staggered the rest of the starters it might have worked better. We all take in some rays whilst we review the menu, this is a table service brunch with the starters shared but an individual main, I choose the
sirloin with chimichurri, whilst around the table there are calls for roast chicken, margarita & duck pizza & grilled haloumi, all with sharing sides of roast spuds, chargrilled corn & tomato salad. More sangria & then the food, all in decent sized portions & freshly prepared to order. My steak was bang on the money, picture perfect medium rare plus the vibrant green chimichurri on the side. I didn’t get to try the rest as my guests worked their way through them but there were no complaints. How do you follow this, well it seems La Cala weren’t going to try, ok a nice plate of fresh fruit with a mint dip was very refreshing as maybe a palate cleanser but it fell short of a really good way to end the meal. With a little bit more thought something else would have raised the game but as such was a little disappointing, come on La Cala you can do better than that. The sun starts to go down, we head up to the dancefloor where Horse Meat Disco have been providing an excellent soundtrack to our afternoon & reflect. Full (well maybe my dinner tummy but not my pudding one) & happily we disappear into the night knowing that anyone who wants a fun, unpretentious afternoon away from Dubai can come here to escape, you should put it on your list for the next time you want to. Words by Stephen Day