TALAL BUDEBS Publisher CHARL CHAKA Managing Partner charlchaka@infusion.ae Sales/marketing magazine@infusion.ae KIMBERLY DEAN Editor editor@infusion.ae
Old Jokes Home… I’m reading a book about anti-gravity. I can¹t put it down. Did you know… Drake’s single God’s Plan is the second track in history to score 100m streams in a single week in the US. The only other? Baauer’s Harlem Shake.
PAULA MANGUEIRA Design design@infusion.ae SONIA IGNACIO Operations operations@infusion.ae CONTRIBUTORS: Paul Walker, Grace Bright, Sasha Perera INFUSION IS PUBLISHED BY Milehigh Media, LLC PO Box 53443 – Dubai, UAE Tel/Fax: 04 368 8098
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We intrigued by… The newly launched Radiate App - like Tinder, but for meeting people around music festivals (and not just for dating). We celebrating… Le Cirque’s 1st Birthday with founding family members Mauro Maccioni straight from New York City from 2 - 4 April.
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OUR PARTNERS We love… That the upcoming ‘The Big BBQ Social’ with GOODLUCK from South Africa will be a doggie friendly event!
GUEST LIST We looking forward to the 2nd Annual Brazilian Festival at SHERATON JBR on Fri 20th April showcasing the traditional dance, music, sports, arts and food of Brazil. Looking to groove on the beach on a Sunday? Check out Sin Sundays at Nasimi Beach every Sunday! Spotify launched in Romania, South Africa, Israel and Vietnam. In South Africa and Israel, a monthly subscription will cost about US$5, roughly twice the fee for users in Vietnam. When will it be launched in the UAE is the real question? Pioneer DJ’s community-based social network KUVO has received a substantial update full of new features in the hope of “energising the local club communities by matching clubbers and DJs through the power of music.” (MagneticMag, Decoded) Amnesia Ibiza has announced first details of its brand new Monday night party, Pyramid, which replaces the recently departed Cocoon. Only time will tell if it stands to deliver the same quality of Cocoon.
BLACK LIST Why are venues still overpaying international DJs in UAE nightlife industry. It’s killing the scene! Pioneering South African artist DJ Spoko has died age 35.
Music is getting more expensive. The online music store Traxsource has announced a complete overhaul of its pricing structure. Are the robots really going to take over? Google developed a touchscreen synthesiser based on artificial intelligence. Don Diablo has launched his own cryptocurrency. How many more cryptocurrencies do we need?
Say What?
BMI AGAINST DRINK DRIVING
Big respect to Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE for their most recent initiative BADD – BMI Against Drink Driving! The Balearic Beach Club wants you to enjoy the good vibes safely and to encourage you to do so are rewarding you for taking a taxi service to beach club by offering 1 free drink in exchange for your taxi receipt. So leave your car at home, take a taxi, and don’t forget the receipt!
THE WORLDS FIRST TURNTABLE ORCHESTRA
An abundance of skill goes into scratching, mixing, transitioning, and song selections. Here, The Philharmonic Turntable Orchestra introduce the world’s first turntable orchestra! Comprised of a number of past world DJ champions, the group recently unleashed a performance of Mendelssohn’s Concerto in E Minor. Solely making use of turntables and mixers, the Philharmonic Turntable Orchestra have created a whole new music experience, reconstructing classical music by playing vinyl records with a variety of musical techniques. Infusion are officially impressed!
#THROWBACK
When Olly Wood freestyled with The Cuban Brothers, backstage at The Music Room. Possibly one of the funnies videos we’ve ever done! Middle East rhymes with …..?! Watch to find out!
STAVROZ (live) Seth Schwarz (live) Ziad Ghosn Josephine De Retour AAYA
#steprightup A P R I L
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S N O O P Y
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LOOKING
BACK
Retrospective on what’s been happening in our world.
AME AT BLUE MARLIN
Gentleman’s Night Re-Defined Gents, Saturday is your night at Vault bar! Receive a complimentary selected drink upon arrival and enjoy special beverage offers throughout the evening while enjoying glistening views of the city skyline and live entertainment from DJ Smokingroove.  Every Saturday from 8pm until 11pm For inquiries call +971 4 414 3000 or WhatsApp +971 56 655 2459 JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay, PO Box 121000, Dubai, UAE T: +971 4 414 0000 | jwmmrr@marriott.com jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com JW Marriott Marquis Dubai | JWDubaiMarquis | vaultdubai
LOOKING
FORWARD
Where we filter out the best things that are coming your way...
FATBOY SLIM TO HEADLINE ZERO GRAVITY’S ALL DAY BEACH FESTIVAL
Friday 27th April welcomes the return of the one and only award-winning musician Fatboy Slim to Zero Gravity for a massive all-day dance music festival on the sand. Joining Fatboy Slim are Gorgon City as well as mash up masters A Skillz and Krafty Kuts. Before the show kicks off there will be a special BEACH FESTIVAL BRUNCH for those who want to soak up the festival vibe for the whole day. Tickets for the brunch are AED 350 and include all day pool and beach access in addition to a free-flowing brunch from 1-5pm, which will also include your entry to the evening. Brunch bookings can be done directly through Zero Gravity and tickets are on sale now at platnumlist.net with a limited early bird offer of AED 100, regular tickets will be sold at AED 200. Be sure to get this date in your diary and grab your tickets now! Click here for info
BRACE FOR IMPACT!
Gotha Club Dubai true to their style kept everyone guessing as to when the this highly anticipated club would be opening its doors. Well, we can officially tell you they are now OPEN! Dubai party goers already had a chance to experience the world-famous brand with an extended 4-day opening weekend from Friday – Monday. Created by Patrick Tartary and David Barokas in Cannes 7 years ago, the club continues to enjoy its status of being the French Riviera’s crown jewel. APJ Management has brought the iconic brand to the heart of Dubai in Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Waterfront, Business Bay. Make sure to check out the superclub’s Facebook page where you can find their recently released A-list artist line up for the season ahead! Click here for info
FREE ENTRY BEFORE 3PM EXTENDED HOURS 10AM-1AM
ITS SUMMERTIME AND DJ JAZZY JEFF IS HITTING THE BEACH! May 4th will see The Magnificent head back to Dubai for one night only and so naturally he’s hitting up his favourite beach bar, Barasti Beach. Best known amongst some for his work with partner Will Smith ‘The Fresh Prince’, the multiple award winning DJ Jazzy Jeff, or ‘The Magnificent’ is a force to be reckoned with. Mark your calendar for what is set to be an incredible evening, with DJ sets from Marty Met, Scott Forshaw, Rohan Nunez, Tom Ferguson. Entry is Free for all!
Click here for info
Barasti Ad
STOP THE WORLD! WE NEED TO LAUGH!
The Laughter Factory, the Middle East’s longest-running comedy night, kicks off another set of rib-tickling tour dates for April, featuring regular TV face Glenn Wool, Danish dynamo Sofie Hagen and ‘Mock the Week’ star Mark Watson. If you like Stewart Lee, Daniel Kitson and Bridget Christie, they would all buy a ticket to see this show! You know what they say, ‘a day without laughter, is a day wasted’ so buy a ticket, priced at AED150 and head down on any of the following dates: April 19th, 9pm at Movenpick, JBR, April 20th, 7pm at ON42 Media One, Dubai Media City or 9pm at Movenpick JBR, April 25th, 8pm at DoubleTree by Hilton Resort and Spa, RAK, April 26th, 8pm at Courtyard by Marriott Dubai Green Community or 9pm at Grand Millennium, Barsha Heights. Click here for info
SINFUL SUNDAYS AT NASIMI BEACH
Infamous party promoters, Sin Sundays take up a weekly residency at Nasimi Beach, Atlantis The Palm. After the roaring success of their last season at Ocean Beach Club, Ibiza, Sin Sundays are back spreading mischief and glamour across Nasimi’s shores from 12pm-4pm. Head down to relax on complimentary sun loungers to beats from Sin resident DJ’s, Chris Wright and Drew Moorland playing a fusion of classic R’n’B hits to deep, funky house. For just 99AED ladies can enjoy unlimited selected beverages for four hours including cocktails and a complimentary dish of choice, or upgrade their package to premium for 166AED to include fizz, bubbles and a luxury selection of rosé and white grape. Gents pay 150 AED entry fee, which is also redeemable on food and beverage. See you for a seductively sinful Sunday on the sand! Click here for info
GOTG
TAKE A DIP IN THE NEW INFINITY POOL AT BLUE MARLIN IBIZA UAE
The Original Balearic Beach Club is finally able to invite guests to take a cooling dip in their new infinity style pool! The pool, completing the venue’s 360 beach club experience, overlooks the sea and boasts a stunning picture of the water and even better sunset views. Whether you want to enjoy some mid-day sun bathing or watch the sunset by the relaxing cabanas, the addition of this new facility means Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE beach days are only getting better and better! Free access for all guests, 1pm to sunset on both Fridays & Saturdays. Click here for info
JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE HOTEL FRIDAY 27th APRIL | 2PM-2AM #BIGBBQSOCIAL
TICKETS AVAILABLE ON PLATINUMLIST.NET EARLY BIRD TICKETS: 80AED UNDER 21: 40AED | UNDER 6 FREE
NORMAL ONLINE: OVER 21: 120 AED UNDER 21: 50 AED
AT THE DOOR: 150AED UNDER 21: 60AED
THE FINALE IS UPON US - GROOVE ON THE GRASS SEASON 6 SEND OFF!
So, before we know it, another Groove On The Grass Season closing is upon us, and what an incredible, magical season it’s been! Unforgettable performances and record breaking crowds have been the tone of this seasons Groove and we are sure this closing finale and final lineup of iconic artists is set to follow suit. The season 6 closing will see 3 Live performances and 4 DJ sets across one massive stage, for one last show down before the summer hits… APPARAT (DJ SET) Sascha Ring, aka Apparat moved from his German hometown to Berlin back in 1997 and established his record label “Shitkatapult” which dashes a wild mixture of intentional great music onto turntables around the world. The emotionally smart Apparat produces a virtual music reality which Is based upon different genres, depending on his surroundings. With strong Techno and Elektro influences you can expect an intense but charming DJ set with and emotionally charged atmosphere! Soundcloud
MAX COOPER (LIVE) Max Cooper, a London-based electronica and techno producer, has carved a unique position for himself as an artist mixing emotional dance floor experimentation with fine art sound design and stunning visuals. Well known for his electronic album EMERGENCE - a document of pure sonic alchemy that only Cooper could present he loves music has a grea potential for stprytelling, especially in combination with visuals. With this audiovisual aim and his striking sound you can expect to be impressed by a complex, yet melodic, live electronic performance.
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HVOB (LIVE BAND) The Austrian electronic duo, Anna Müller and Paul Wallner created HVOB with the idea to move beyond a simple musical project, and shape their vision of how 21st century electronic pop should sound. Their songs fuse the acoustic with the synthetic, using exquisite beats and minimalist structures produced by both Müller and Wallner as well as emotive vocal melodies. Working with artistic, visual and music aspects simultaneously and bringing a sound which moves between deep mid tempo and melancholic vocal pop you can expect none other than a truly beautiful live performance from this band. Soundcloud
MARIBOU STATE (DJ SET) Maribou State, two music making, tea drinking boys from Hertfordshire, are an English electronic music duo consisting of Chris Davids and Liam Ivory. They have steadily built a glowing international reputation via a string of well-loved EPs and a fistful of remixes (including Kelis, Ultraista, Fatboy Slim and Lana Del Rey). Radio heavyweights such as the likes of: Zane Lowe, Annie Mac, Pete Tong and Gilles Peterson amongst others, have also showed their support for the duo. Intrigued by the dynamics of electronic music, as well as live instrumentation and song-craft you can expect a deeply soulful marriage or organic and synthetic sound to be showcased throughout this DJ set. Soundcloud
As always there will be support from local artists including Paul Josef, showcasing a live set, Mo Ezaby and Liminal Roots. Plus the fashion and arts marketplace, lots of sunset activities, and food and beverage options from a selection of awesome pop-up vendors. Make sure to get your tickets early on Platinumlist.net or alternatively tickets can be purchased at the entrance on Friday 4th May. Click here for info
Techno Talk with Drumcode Stable Harvey Mckay
Harvey’s music has found it's way onto many of the very best techno labels in the industry including Soma, Cocoon, Intec, Bedrock and Drumcode. His relationship with Adam Beyer's iconic Drumcode label alone has landed 4 top 10 EPs gaining support across the globe enhancing Harvey as one of the hottest techno producers around. Ahead of his gig at Dubai’s DECIBEL the Glaswegien techno DJ and producer chats to Infusion about his journey, his bond with Adam Beyer and his Drumcode label, being a part of Beyer's inaugural Drumcode festival this summer in Amsterdam, and what it's like working with his brother Ryan!
Over the last 10 years how would you say you have evolved as an artist, arriving to the point where you are now and regarded as one of Britain’s finest Techno exports? These days I am always trying to keep my head down and work hard in the studio, improve my creative work flow, come up with new technics, new ideas, keep things fresh for myself and try and evolve. But mostly create an environment for myself where I enjoy making music. I think that’s key. Adam Beyer has been said to have called you “one of the hottest new acts in techno”, it seems he has a lot of respect for you, that must be a good feeling! How did the relationship between the two of you start? Sure, it’s always nice to hear things like that from someone so respected. So Adam had been playing my tracks for a while then I started sending him demos. It took a few years to find something that was a fit, but it worked out well, and the EP's he picked all did really well. He eventually singed Lost EP in 2013 and that hit no 1, we just really built things from there. How does it feel to be a part of Adam Beyer’s Drumcode festival in Amsterdam this summer? We heard it’s in partnership with Awakenings, you must be excited?! Yea of coarse what a duo those two are together, the fan base for DC is staggering, and awakenings production is just unreal. It will be a great event!
It seems Techno runs in the family blood, we hear you are currently working on a project with your brother Ryan, aka Alias GB… Is that correct? Tell us a little about that? Ryan had been making music for a while and it was really impressing me. So I thought let’s see what happens if we put our heads together. And it went better that we could ever have hoped, we’re a great team, we both have strong point's that fill in the gaps for each other, and we don’t fight like Oasis, not too often anyway, though we have been known to have the odd verbal scrap haha. But it’s all worth it. We are super excited about our new Alias EP that’s out on Drumcode in May, we have worked really hard on it and we think it’s our strongest work yet. Apart from Drumcode Festival, what other exciting things have you got in store for your fans this summer? Yea I am just finishing up a new EP at the moment, pretty excited about that. Then the Alias NRG EP is out on Drumcode in May. Gig wise Drumcode Awakening’s Festival that you mentioned, also Creamfeilds Carl Cox Stage. I will also be touring I’m doing lots of shows around Europe, plus Columbia, Argentina, Mexico, USA, Asia, all over the world really, so it’s a busy year! Don’t miss Harvey Mckay at DECIBEL, ON42 Media One Hotel, Thursday 5th April. Click here for info
The Big BBQ Social is Back For its Second Season!
Round up the whole family, fur-babies included, and get ready to enjoy Dubai’s largest social gathering centered around BBQ culture on Friday, April 27th at The Secret Garden, Jumeirah Creekside Hotel (next to the Irish village). Formerly known as #BraaiDayDXB, The Big BBQ Social promises a day of fun in the sun for the whole family, with cooking stations, live music, endless activities for the kids and all whilst being set in an idyllic setting on the grass within a beautiful and fully licensed venue.
Who’s Behind It? HouseofAfrica: the original Dubai based club night that introduced Afrotinged House Music to the UAE, hosted last year’s #BraaiDayDXB and is currently behind SUNRISERS DXB events. Click here for info
JK58: not your typical creative agency, JK58 are a creative community specializing in Events, Film and Music taking traditional agency policies and adapting them to the here and now. They combine creativity, innovation and excellence to provide high-end creative services around the region. Having worked in partnership with well-known events such as Groove on The Grass, Piknic Electronic and All Day I Dream, this agency are sure not to disappoint! With a proven track record from both of these energetic organizers, this event is sure to be a fun, creative and colourful day for all involved! Click here for info
The Barbeque Be prepared for the sweet smoky smell of BBQ to fill the air! Whether you like your meat pulled or rubbed, everyone is welcome to fire up his or her own style of BBQ at one of the communal wood and charcoal BBQ stations setup on the green grass. There will be a gourmet butcher on site for supplies, and a designated non-halal area to grill. Guests are welcome to bring their own meat or purchase it from N&R Butchery on the day and cook up a storm. For those who’d rather just chill and enjoy the day, there will be a menu available and prepared by the specialists.
What’s In It For The Kids? Kids will have their plates full, not just with juicy food, but with plenty of games, arts & crafts, and live entertainment to keep them busy throughout the day. Parents can leave their Mini Grill Masters in the safety of the onsite nursery to take a break, and enjoy a cold beverage at this fully licensed event. This Is A Pet-Friendly Day! Pets will be in Doggo Heaven playing by your picnic blanket or left to make new furry friends in the supervised doggie Play Zone. Animal lovers and children are welcome to play with the cute puppers looking for a “Furever home” in the Rescue Zone. There will also be a Pamper Zone where you can reward your little floofers. Bear in mind if you do bring your 4 legged friend that you will be required to keep he/she on a leash and pick up after any little recycled BBQ ‘packages’! Banned and muzzled dogs won’t be permitted and you must present up-to-date vaccination records. Local and International Entertainment South African live electronic band GOODLUCK, the brain child of Juliet Harding (lyricist and vocalist), Raiven Hansmann (keys and sax) and Ben Peters (producer and sampling), are set to get everyone on their feet with their infectious beats. The trio’s irresistible blend of electronica,
jazz and pop have earned them nine top 10 radio singles, five Number 1 hits, five SAMA [South African Music Award] nominations and the opening act for Pharrell Williams, as a part of his world tour. They will be supported by local bands Sandstorm & DJs tbc. What You Need To Know The Big BBQ Social will open its doors from 2pm till late. You will not be allowed to bring your own alcohol, snacks, salads or drinks but you will be welcome to bring your own meat, picnic blankets, deck chairs, umbrellas, sports balls and games. Tickets on the day will cost you AED120 for adults and AED50 for under 21’s, while kids under 6 can enter for free; and will be available on the door. Pre-purchased tickets are available at a discounted early-bird rate of 80AED for over 21’s and 40AED for under 21’s on Platinumlist.com. Make sure you don’t miss out on what is set to be one of the juiciest dog-friendly events in town! Click here for info
Fatboy Slim to Headline Zero Gravity’s All Day Beach Festival Dubai welcomes the return of the DJ that’s done it all, the one and only award-winning musician Fatboy Slim to Zero Gravity for a massive all-day dance music festival on the sand. Ahead of his show, Infusion got a few quotes from the Superstar DJ himself, here we go… On his round the world tour “I was fine, let’s be honest, my body’s used to far worse abuse than that.” On DJing “I’m just really enjoying doing the gigs, as a career. This is my job, I love doing it, I still seem to be getting away with it.” On being a VJ and a DJ “I’m technically a video jockey now. We write scripts for all the tunes, make films. In the past, I used to have to literally hold up the next record I was going to play to the guy who does my visuals, and he’d have to find the images to match it. And they were never synched. But now, because of the technology, no matter what speed I play at, even if I just chop quickly into it, the visuals are all synchronized. It’s a show.”
On getting old “It doesn’t matter that you’re old and bald and grey and fat, because you were never a sex symbol in the first place. We’re pushing new limits. No one knows what the cut-off age limit of a DJ is. And apparently, it’s not yet. I take great delight in that.” On playing the Great Wall of China “Everyone said it was like playing at an M25 rave. It was in the middle of nowhere, two hours outside of Beijing, right by the Mongolian border, in the car park of the tourist center. There’s nobody there at night. We’d had our gear impounded at customs, we were fully prepared for the idea that it might not happen. And 5000 people turned up. Projecting lasers onto the Great Wall Of China! I don’t know how we got away with it.”
On being a good DJ “A good DJ is always looking at the crowd, seeing what they’re like, whether what you’re doing is working, communicating with them. Smiling at them. A bad DJ is always looking down at what they’re doing all the time.” On being popular in Brazil “I am more popular there than I am in England. It’s an ongoing mutual love affair. I was gobsmacked. I went right to the other side if the world where I didn’t speak the language, and I played my tunes and they went, ‘We like this. We get this. We like you’.” On being sober “I quit drinking four years ago, and that makes the whole DJ thing so much more manageable, and my life. Whereas before, I was always just kind of dragging myself up from some hotel room floor, now I fly around the globe and give good parties, and I’m not focused on scraping up bits of myself off the floor.” Don’t miss Fatboy Slim at Zero Gravity, Friday 27th April joined by Gorgon City as well as mash up masters A Skillz and Krafty Kuts. Tickets are on sale now at platnumlist.net with a limited early bird offer of AED 100, regular tickets will be sold at AED 200. Grab yours now!
Carnival Island by Snoopy Beats
Snoopy Natives, it’s that time of the year again.. only this time it’s bigger and better! Carnival Island by Snoopy Beats is back to transport you into what can only be described as a weekend getaway to feed the soul and feast your senses.
In collaboration with Deep Like, Carnival Island by Snoopy Beats is set to bring you amazing live musical acts including: AAYA AAYA started DJing at numerous festivals and night clubs around the world, including a residency in his hometown, Montreal. Producing music was a natural progression and since 1998, AAYA has been tailoring his live act, creating a recognizable and unique sound combining elements ranging from House, Ambient, Oriental to Psychedelic Tribal. JosĂŠphine De Retour Resident DJ and creative director behind popular house night, Deep Like Josephine has shared the stage with well-known international artists such as Dirty Doering, Madmotormiquel, Dahu, Andre Crom, Soul Button, Animal Trainer, Talul and Benotmane to name a few and is definitely an artist in demand right now. Berlin and Zurich have already introduced her to the international gig scene and more are sure to follow.
Ziad Ghosn Having been taking over Friday Nights at B018 since 2006, Ziad Ghosn reserved for himself a top rank in the underground scene. Ziad is known for his story telling long emotional sets, flawless sensual trips, and deep meaningful journeys from the very first opening track till the very orgasmic last. This has resulted in notable success in his homeland Lebanon and several Middle East hot spots. Seth Schwarz (Live) Classically trained violinist, Seth loves melodies! In his teens he began to merge violin and other classical instruments with the digital sound playground. Seth incorporates elements of House, Techno & Electronica into his sets while improvising with his violin for an emotional imprint. Having performed at Burning Man, Amsterdam Dance Event, The BPM Festival, Fusion Festival and Afrika Burn you can really expect something special. His powerful productions always go above the expectations on the dance floor!
Stavroz (Live) Stavroz are well known for injecting an overall ethnic, acoustic and organic vibe to electronic music. These four friends; IJsbrand, Gert, Maxim & Pieter have pocketed releases for Kindisch, Laut & Luise, Bedrock, Delicieuse and their own label ‘Moodfamily’ in Ghent. Their first EP release “The Ginning” was picked up on international blogs, resulting the highest position on the Hype Machine and was chosen vinyl of the month by the German ‘Faze Magazine’. In Belgium, they were awarded second best breakthrough artist, coming in just after Oscar & The Wolf. Their intimate live set and unique dj sets have quickly earned them regular trips abroad. Be ready to be injected and soothed against views of the Hajar Mountains across the Indian Ocean and infamous Snoopy Island. Snoopy Beats 2018, is on April the 27th and 28th. The event, hosted at Sandy Beach aims to embark all its guests on a magical, vibrant journey, where fiction is empowered, time forgotten and memories made forever. Set to be the ultimate weekend getaway, step right up and purchase your tickets now at Platinumlist.net. Click here for info
ON THE RADAR
RONY SEIKALY THU, 5TH APRIL - BASE
MAMBO BROTHERS APRIL-06 @ SOHO GARDEN
DECIBEL W/HARVEY MCKAYN APRIL-05 @ ON42 MEDIA ONE HOTEL
PARADISE APRIL-06 @ BLUE MARLIN IBIZA UAE
PAUL VAN DYK THU 5TH APRIL - ZERO GRAVITY
SM TOWN LIVE WORLD TOUR 6 APRIL-06 @ AUTISM ROCKS ARENA
JAMIE JONES FRI 6TH APRIL – BLUE MARLIN
JAZZ CARIBBEAN MAGHREB CONCERT APRIL-14 @ AUDITORIUM, ALLIANCE FRANCAISE
ON THE RADAR
BACKSTREET BOYS FRI 20TH APRIL - BLENDED MUSIC FESTIVAL
CARNIVAL ISLAND FRI 27TH APRIL - SNOOPY ISLAND
DONETSK OPERA & BALLET FRI, 20TH APRIL - EMIRATES PALACE
GOODLUCK FRI 27TH APRIL - BBQ SOCIAL, JUMEIRAH CREEKSIDE
BRAZILIAN DAY APRIL-20 @ SHERATON JUMEIRAH BEACH RESORT
FAT BOY SLIM FRI 27TH APRIL- ZERO GRAVITY
DECIBEL W/MARCO BAILEY APRIL-26 @ @ ON42 MEDIA ONE HOTEL
DJ JAZZY JEFF MAY-04 @ BARASTI BEACH
Dance FM
HEART BREAKFAST WITH TIM, FARIS & SHERON WEEKDAYS 6AM - 10AM
Shock Middle East | www.shock-me.com | +971 4 557 7666
LOOK AND
LISTEN
Music be the food of love, so read on...
Music News ZIRRA BRINGS POP AND AFROBEATS TO THE MIDDLE EAST
Sony Music Entertainment Middle East, have announced the signing of emerging singer Zirra, whose debut single “Agbada” from his album “Zirra” dropped last month. Born in Lagos, Nigeria and now based in Dubai, Nigerian singer/ songwriter Timothy Zirindza Tsakma, known as Zirra, was inspired from an early age by artists such as the likes of Peter Tosh, Fela Kuti, Lagbaja and Kid Cudi. With his deep and ever-growing passion for music, Zirra aspires to be one of the greatest artists coming out of Africa. Click here for info
JAI NOVA RELEASES HEART IS A LIAR
Taking his passion for electronic music very seriously, at just 20 years old, Jai Nova has achieved a noteworthy list of honours. From releasing music on Universal to his rapidly expanding show ‘Novadose Radio’ broadcasting across six continents, Jai Nova is step-by-step becoming an uprising artist in the electronic music industry amongst the next generation of DJs. As the latest signee at Universal Music Middle East he has released his debut single Heart Is A liar featuring Hilaire. Listen to it here! Click here for info
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THE FLIP SIDE STAFF CHARTS
The Flip Side, an independent record store based in Dubai, hosts In-store sessions with DJs as well as monthly shows. Stocking music from various genres all across the board, Infusion got some inside information on the latest in store staff recommendations‌
SHADI MEGALLAA: Pasteur Lappe - Na Man Pass Man (Africa Seven) Insanely infectious funk, disco & reggae grooves on this one. Really glad Africa Seven reissued this record. Coincidentally, it was released the same year I was born. The horn section is unrelenting on this record. They sound like Africa's answer to Parliament-Funkadelic. I'll definitely be dropping this on a dance floor sometime soon.
JEDD PERALTA: V/A - Molam: Thai Country Groove From Isan This is one of the hidden gems in our regional compilation section. This compilation is a collection of folk songs made in the 70’s and 80’s in the northeastern region of Thailand. It was Released on the Sublime Frequencies label. Molam sound, traditional or revisited, is something so intense and impossible to get out of one's head, when discovered. Make sure to pop in to Unit 71, Alserkal Avenue and check out these records for yourself! Click here for info
Dubai Based Talent, Hadi on Invincible and Newest Release Sun Will Rise
Upcoming singer and songwriter Hadi, gave us an exclusive listen to his about to be released, second single “Sun Will Rise�; a tranquil yet truly infectious song that he wrote about believing in, and staying true to yourself.
Hadi shared with Infusion his personal thoughts about the song, its message and how it came to life…
“This is a song about having faith. When you feel like you’re stuck between a rock and a hard place, when you start doubting yourself and your skills, wondering whether you belong or if you’re doing the right thing.” “The Sun Will Rise came to life almost like an epiphany - a reassurance that, even though certain phases seem to go on forever, the sun will always rise. Take a moment and breathe. Stop overthinking and second-guessing. Just flow with the process leading you towards the light at the end of the tunnel.” “Sun Will Rise”, incorporates a lush atmosphere with Hadi’s velvety voice which transitions from mellow singing in the chorus to consoling verses, complimented by prominent piano keys and gentle guitar riffs that shift into an upbeat EDM-esque rhythm. “I know the night feels long, but the sun will rise.” Sings Hadi optimistically, telling the listener to believe in themselves and to keep pushing forward regardless of the hardships that they may come by in this life.
INVINCIBLE ON MTV Back in January, Hadi put out his first single and music video “Invincible�, a song which conveys joy and encouragement. Hadi croons soulfully while enthusiastically strumming his guitar, the song is accompanied by an appealing sound occurring throughout the tune. MTV played the music video of his single all around the world! Words by Sasha Perera
Make sure to follow Hadi on his social media accounts to get more updates on his latest music, videos, and gigs! Click here for info
BOX-TALK with the BOXTONES
Don’t be an April Fool, make sure you read The Boxtones advice for what’s hot and coming up in Dubai this month… BOX-TALK BIG MUSIC NEWS AND GIGS COMING YOUR WAY - and no this isn’t some April Fool’s prank…you really need to read about a brand new album release and go and check out these live music events here on the Dubai local scene!
GIG-TALK
Thurs. April 5th – Guess who’s back playing for ONE NIGHT ONLY at Stables 6th Birthday Bash? Yours truly, The Boxtones! Join us for amazing live music, 50% off on all food & beverages from 8pm – plus a HUGE raffle draw, beer pong competitions, bull riding and resident band Baby Jane! Click here for info
Thurs. April 5th – 7th - MEFCC (Dubai’s Comic Con) just might be our personal favorite event of the year! Get up close with some of the coolest international celebs including The Boxtones (performing before Friday’s Cosplay Competition) and make your geekiest dreams come true!
Click here for info
Tue. April 3rd - #BacardiHousePartySessions Grand Finale at Soho Garden. Get your party hats on and get involved in a whole night of celebrating the best of local music in Dubai! Artists taking the stage will include Freek T.v, ShĂŠbani, Jay Abo and the boys from Carl & The Reda Mafia! Click here for info
ALBUM-TALK
Singer/songwriter Pimms Brooke has recently released her EP #UnderTheLayers – which is available on Spotify, iTunes, Apple Music, Tidal and Deezer! Did you know both she and The Boxtones have recorded with the amazing producer Elvis Garagic at Soundstruck Studios here in Dubai? Guess we both have great taste!
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DJ BOOTH: JAMIE ULSTER
Jamie Ulster, AKA JSA, has been a regular fixture in Dubai’s nightlife over the last 5 years. He’s opened for artists such as Rick Ross, Sean Kingston and Flo Rida, and has played in an array of Dubai’s top nightclubs, including Armani/Prive, Movida, Cavalli Club, Pacha Ibiza Dubai, and Cirque Le Soir. Classically trained in piano, JSA brings his appreciation and deep understanding of music to bear in his energy filled late night sets that he has built his everrising reputation upon.Garnering enthusiastic audience responses and critical praise for his energetic style, Infusion put him in the DJ BOOTH to talk all things, Hip Hop, Rnb and House! What’s your favorite part of Dubai’s clubbing scene? I’d have to say my favourite part of the Dubai scene is the fact that I get the opportunity to entertain people from all over the world, with different backgrounds, all dancing to what I have to offer them! What needs some work in the scene? Right now the Dubai clubbing scene is challenged with the FOC (Free of charge) crowd, which encourages people only coming out if they are offered free bottles/tables etc. This in turn gives them a feeling of superiority which then leads to a lack of energy on their part, it’s just a downward spiral. The Dubai scene needs to work on fixing this!! What style of music you into? I enjoy lots of different types of music, but I’d have to say that I am particularly fond of Old School Hip-Hop with that authentic Boom Bap Drums, and being from Cape Town South Africa, I’ve got to Love my House Music.
To Sync or Not Sync? From one song to another with similar BPMs , NO NO NO. DONT BE LAZY! Where’s the fun in that? If you’re transitioning from a high BPM to a Low BPM or Vice Versa, Ok , then I think it’s acceptable (e.g. looping a part of a track, and syncing it up with the next track in order to bring the BPM down/up to the desired Tempo etc.) If it’s not for a creative purpose , then it’s a NO! It then makes Djing boring. My favorite ever record is This is a tough one, it changes all the time! I’d have to go with 2Pac-Changes if I really had to pick just one (today anyway!). Biggest DJ achievement to date is… I have a lot of moments that stand out in my career. Having to make a choice, I would choose opening for Rick Ross at his 2014 Concert here in Dubai and flying the South African Flag on the Big Screens Behind me! Favorite musical era? Defiantly the 90s!!! DJ Hero? Would have to be Carl Cox - Energy filled sets, and flawless mixing. Where do you play these days? At the moment you’ll find me playing: Sundays – Boudoir, Dubai Marine Beach Resort Wednesdays - XL Beach, Habtoor Grand Hotel Fridays – Brunch at Park Arabian Hotel Friday nights – The Showclub - Vii, Conrad Hotel
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Food News
CIRCUS-THEMED FRIDAY BRUNCH AT JEBEL ALI RECREATION CLUB
Don’t miss out on the final spectacular circus-themed Friday brunch with live performances, unlimited food, fun and festivities for the whole family at Jebel Ali Recreation Club, Friday April 6th. Expect to see jugglers, acrobats, contortionists, stilt walkers, bubble girls, flash mobs and a parade all captivating guests with their performances. Brunch is from 1-4pm, priced at AED245 per person with house beverages and AED175 per person with soft drinks. The fun doesn’t stop when brunch finishes either: a live band will play from 5pm to 8pm, while the entire venue remains open with a DJ playing feel good music until midnight. Click here for info
Art News
MOLECULE UNVEILS ‘METAPHORIC FACES’
In collaboration with EMERGEAST, an online gallery promoting and selling artworks by emerging Middle Eastern artists, the prominent online gallery Molecule, a hit with foodies from the creative world in d3, will showcase a highly unique solo exhibition by the talented Jordanian artist Zaina El Said. The exciting presentation will be part of Molecule’s gallery wall and will exhibit in time for Art Dubai until the 16th June 2018. ‘Metaphoric Faces’ aims to explore images from the past that are recreated digitally in a funky/pop-art mode. The series will bridge between past and present to exhibit the timelessness of the selected images and welcomes artists, spectators and curious minds alike to be captivated by the inspired design, art and lounge concept at Dubai Design District, Building 7 from 10am - 2am daily. Click here for info
Gadgets
MACHINE MESSIAH SEPULTURA
R50 MATT CHROME SPEAKER
The 14th studio album of famed Brazilian heavy metal band Sepultura, Machine Messiah is adventurous. It delivers a worthwhile message and is the return all Sepultura fans have been waiting for.
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PARROT SWING MINI DRONE
SONY MP-CD1 MOBILE PROJECTOR
It is the only minidrone that lets you fly a supersonic plane with surprising ease. With the Parrot Flypad controller, transform the sky into an amazing race track!
The pocket-sized projector that’s bright and light. Sony MP-CD 1 is the ideal companion for professionals, gamers and movie fans alike. Use it with your smartphone, laptop or gaming console!
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Gaming
THE LEGEND OF ZELDA: BREATH OF WILD
Forget everything you know about The Legend of Zelda games. Step into a world of discovery, exploration and adventure in The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild. MINECRAFT CREEPER – XBOX
Prepare to explore & survive your own Minecraft adventure. This controller features the iconic green Creeper design & Bluetooth technology for gaming.
DESTINY 2
Destiny 2 is an action game with a compelling and immersive story. Defeat the Red Legion, reunite humanity’s scattered heroes, stand together, and fight back to reclaim our home. RAZER BLACKWIDOW CHROMA V2
Designed with gamers in mind, the Razer BlackWidow Chroma V2 is the world’s best mechanical gaming keyboard. Feel the difference with ultimate comfort while gaming for hours!
Wear your ‘UDDA’ Jacket, and Rock It With An Urban Attitude!
There’s an-UDDA new brand making a big impact on the fashion scene. UDDA was founded by UAE resident Mark Hugsy Huggins whose job afforded him the luxury of representing brands like Adidas Orginals, Ted Baker and Fred Perry whilst performing on stage. After years of wearing other brands he felt it was time to create something of his own and in late 2016 his vision was born. UDDA The Brand: UDDA has 2 super stylish and eco-friendly collections! Producing the most stunning buttery soft lamb leather jackets, this brand is certified as a fully sustainable and eco-friendly fashion item, with zero impact on mother nature or human beings. This was important for Hugsy who is a Global Sustainability advocate. Classic Collections: This Collection boasts 10 men’s and 10 women’s jackets that take influence from the most popular styles from the past 60 years and the couture collection which is released each winter.
Couture Collections: The current couture collection, SUPERVERSE, is inspired by super heroes and villains. Within days of its release this collection was being photographed for the front cover of Fabulous Magazine, worn by famous ITV presenter and Fashionista Caroline Flack and since has been requested for TV shows, Fashion shoots and Celebrity public appearances all over the UK and USA. UAE Success: UDDA has been featured on front cover and fashion features 9 times since its launch in September 2017. The biggest exposure for UDDA in the UAE was with Carley Rae Jepson who wore a fully custom made jacket for her performance at the Day of the Dead festival. Celebrity Fans: The likes of Tori Amos, Katy Perry, Team GB Diver Jack Haslam, Franklin Lake, X Factor UK, Ashley James and Players from West Ham United have all sported their ‘UDDA’ jackets! THINK OF UDDAS: Committed to helping others, THINK OF UDDAS is a collection of jackets designed to raise funds and awareness for Breast Cancer globally. In the UAE profits are donated to the Pink Caravan Charity who support Breast Cancer across the Emirates. It sounds like it’s time to join #THEUDDALIFE! Click here for info
Try What You Dare and Take A Bite Into Bangkok’s Humbler Side
Let it slip that you’re sojourning to Bangkok and you risk a few sceptical glances. Thailand’s capital seems to split holiday goers into two categories; those using it as a layover and, self-confessed party animals (stags, lads and gap-year ‘travelers’) searching for neon-fronted bars. But with the arrival of the Michelin Guide’s it has created a third category; the Foodies! Say goodbye to Khao San Road’s everlasting glare, because Bangkok gastronomy is finally being recognized for its haute cuisine… as well as it’s egregious 3am kebabs. We decided to see what all the fuss was about and bite into Bangkok’s humbler side.
If you’re after an afternoon of delicious chaos, China Town will answer your calling – providing you succumb to all it has to offer. Weaving through the streets might feel like a giant game of Tetris, but it only makes the intermittent snack stops more enjoyable. We suggest you adopt the following policy: try what you dare. Fall on the audacious side of the scale and there’s bird’s nest soup, shark fin soup and fried scorpion to get your teeth into or, fish balls, shrimp balls and fried tofu for those with more sensitive taste buds. Choose from a variety of hole-in-the-wall-style gaffs but be prepared to fight for your seat. Expect fast pace, no-fuss service and air sticky with activity (and sweat, depending on how hot the chilli sauce is). After starters, we took to the backstreets for the main event. Don’t be put off by the restaurants’ grittiness, there are swathes of seafood to choose from which will all go down swimmingly. After the commotion of China town, a little sit down was in order, so we googled ‘great places to eat’. Seven Spoons turned out to be just that. Placed unassumingly off the beaten track, this eatery began as a four-tabled affair and
has since expanded, without losing any of its charming intimacy. The staff, genuinely passionate about the food they’re serving, explain the dishes without delivering the kind of dull soliloquy that makes you wish you’d never step foot in the door. Producing several ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’, the cocktail list is headed up with their signature mixes – an interesting range of flavours with fun names to boot. Mango salsa shrimp tacos were fresh and zingy, whilst the gnocchi with gorgonzola sauce and lentil and spinach balls was as unctuous as promised. It’s nice to see a restaurant give equal TLC to its veggie dishes, something that’s often hard to find. Dessert was outstanding. But the salted caramel chocolate torte – the best we’ve ever eaten – was on the special menu. Alas! We implore you Seven Spoons, make it a regular offering. Having missed the sunset skyscraper experience, a rooftop bar remained top priority the following day. Craving some Dubai glamour? Sky Bar at State Tower is the antidote. While the drinks menu is as you would expect, it’s Bangkok’s mesmeric night skyline that steals the show. Warning: prepare to shuffle around the bar for a prime spot next to the edge. Instagram captions at the ready. If you do wish to pay homage to two of the city’s twenty Michelin stars, Mezzaluna neighbours Sky Bar, meaning sundowners can be followed by a first-class meal. But if you’re still hankering for cheap drinks and cheesy pop, well… you know where to go! Words by Grace Bright
THE SPIN APRIL 2018
PAGE 217
ISSUE 32
DJ SURPRISES CLUB AFTER PLAYING ‘SUMMER OF 69’ IN THE MIDDLE OF A TECHNO CLUB TO SHAME REQUESTER
In a move that’s been applauded across the city, a local DJ actually played Bryan Adam’s ‘Summer of 69’ after the 5th time of asking and got on the mic to point out the errant requester. Dubai DJ said that he’d been asked for AC/DC and Bryan Adams repeatedly by the same girl throughout his underground techno set, and decided to name and shame her after she called him a ‘s*** DJ.’ The move opened the floodgates, quite literally, as an emotional outpouring followed, with a helpline – Last Night A DJ Ruined My Life – set up to allow DJs to share their request hell stories. Plus! Man boasting of lavish yacht parties at F1 actually drinking on his own in a dinghy *These stories are not true, this is not a real newspaper. This is a parody/fiction/ satire/joke. The Spin is not intended, in any way whatsoever, to be taken as factual.
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