ISSUE 10 / DECEMBER 2017 / FREE
ARTS / COMMUNITY / FASHION / FOOD & DRINK / MUSIC
AN INTERVIEW WITH NIC CESTER ACADEMY OF DESIGN AUSTRALIA • LOCAL SOCIAL ENTERPRISES 2017 FASHION TRENDS • SUMMER PICNIC INSPIRATION
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EDITOR’S LETTER Summer is here, and we at Inner Circle are enjoying every sunny second, with the inner north already having enjoyed street parties, festivals and other open air events with much more to come over the holiday season and beyond!
Editor & Co-Founder - James Fox Head Designer & Co-Founder - Declan Hooper
Outdoor celebration is certainly one of the themes of issue 10, with our summer picnic hotspots feature taking centre stage. Having researched the best picnic spots our fine region has to offer, and having compiled the ultimate list of local foodie joints ready and willing to supply your picnic goodies, we have your inner north picnic summer sorted! Not only that, we’ve also listed our top picks of bars and hotels to head to for an after picnic drink to keep the good times coming!
We would not have been able to create Inner Circle Magazine without the hard work and dedication of all involved. Thank you!
As we approach Christmas and the holiday season, this issue also sees us chat with some of the people behind local social enterprises Arts Project Australia of Northcote, The Social Studio of Collingwood and Scarf of Fitzroy, to find out about the good work they do in the local community, and what they have planned this Christmas.
Online Editor: Nina McQueen
Moving on to music and the arts, this issue also sees us catch up with Nic Cester of multi-million album selling band Jet, as he discusses his exciting new solo project, Jet’s upcoming gig at Zoo Twilights in Parkville, and of course the inner north. We also take a closer look at Collingwood’s Academy of Design Australia, to learn more about this creative powerhouse, with some great tips for students looking to embark on a career in design. Once again, whatever takes your interest this holiday season, we hope you enjoy our latest exploration of Melbourne’s inner north!
James Fox - Editor & Co-Founder, Inner Circle Magazine
Editorial Assistant: Eleanor van Driel
Design Assistant/Illustrator: Nicola Hooper Consultant: David Hooper Print Columnists: Alex Birch, Quincy Malesovas, Ruby Syme, Nina McQueen, Estelle Artois, Tobias Handke Photography: Kerman Daruwalla, Kate Longley, Peter Tarasiuk, Liberation Images, Mark Wilkinson (Cover Image) Online Columnists and Contributors in November: Nina McQueen, Ruby Syme, Natassia Papierowski, Tobias Handke, Quincy Malesovas
Acknowledgement of Traditional Owners of the Land:
Special thanks to:
“We, at Inner Circle Magazine, would like to acknowledge that the land we meet on is the traditional lands for the Wurundjeri people of the Kulin Nations, and that we respect their spiritual relationship with their country. We would like to acknowledge the Wurundjeri people as the custodians of the Melbourne region, including Melbourne’s inner north, and recognise that their culture and heritage is still important to the Wurundjeri people today. We wish to pay respect to their Elders, both past and present, and further acknowledge the important role that Indigenous people continue to play within our communities.”
Michelle Newell (Academy of Design Australia), Sue Roff (Arts Project Australia), Andrea Philippou Latino (The Social Studio), Liz Grady (Scarf), Chloe Thomas, Lisa Zee (Perfect Match), Nic Cester Special thanks also reserved for all our advertising partners. Publisher: Inner Circle Magazine - innercirclemagazine.com.au
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To contribute, head to: innercirclemagazine.com.au/about/contribute/ For advertising enquiries, contact: James Fox - james@innercirclemagazine.com.au Declan Hooper - declan@innercirclemagazine.com.au
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ARTS PAGE 7
COMMUNITY PAGE 11
FASHION PAGE 15
FOOD & DRINK PAGE 20
MUSIC PAGE 27
• WHAT’S ON
• WHAT’S ON
• WHAT’S ON
• SUMMER PICNIC
• WHAT’S ON
• ARTS NEWS
• COMMUNITY
• FASHION UPDATE
• ACADEMY OF DESIGN AUSTRALIA
• LOCAL SOCIAL
NEWS
ENTERPRISES
• 2017 FASHION TRENDS
INSPIRATION
• MUSIC NEWS • AN INTERVIEW WITH NIC CESTER
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
Issue 10 • December
What’s On - Arts
Arts News
Pillow Talk
The festive season has arrived in the Inner North! November celebrated Christmas early, especially in Fitzroy North where the DSM German Christmas Market was held. Influenced by both Australian and German Christmas market traditions, a number of stalls were held for local craftspeople and artists to sell handmade cards, wooden toys, jewellery, decorations and more.
La Mama Theatre, Carlton, Dec 5th-7th Pillow Talk is a piece of highly collaborative, devised theatre exploring the private and personal ways in which women discuss their experience of patriarchal violence.
Sarah Schembri Ceramics – Studio Sale & Opening 10 Kent St, Fitzroy, Dec 9th Ceramic tableware for sale for the studio opening. Tableware, candles, planters, and more. The perfect Christmas present! .
Fitzroy Market Fitzroy Primary Shcool, Dec 16th Now in its eighth year of running, this fundraiser market will bring the community together. Plenty of arts and crafts stalls to wander through.
For those not ready for Christmas just yet, Collingwood held the Peel Street Festival. A perfect excuse to bring the community together, art stalls were spotted under the shade of the trees, selling the finest local crafts, amongst all the other entertainment.
Nova Film Club: Call Me By Your Name Cinema Nova, Carlton, Dec 20th Luca Guadagnino returns with another dazzling film. A romance between two young men, adapted from André Acimen novel of the same name. Tickets can be booked online at cinemanova.com.au/films/call-me-byyour-name.
For something that the community could join in on, the Films Never Die free monthly Photo Walk explored the chic streets of Brunswick’s neighborhood, inviting local photographers to join in, meet the FND crew and snap their hearts away.
to showcase and sell artwork with other local artists and designers. Their commitment to ‘handmade’ is second to none.” Thanks to the rental model, in.cube8r takes no commission on goods sold so 100% of every sale is paid straight to the artist. “I love in.cube8r because it allows me to create with no limitations on design and fully supports my ethos A handmade wonderland on Smith St towards sustainability” says Teena Germano of Germano Arts, a handmade Nestled on the corners of Smith & jewellery label making beautiful jewellery Johnstone Street in the wonderfully in various mediums who has been ‘cubed’ creative district of Fitzroy sits in.cube8r for almost one year. gallery; a handmade emporium & emerging artist gallery which is home to in.cube8r truly believes handmade is more than 100 local artists. best; and with a range of handmade in.cube8r runs off a unique business model where artists can rent a cube, shelf or wall and fill it with their creations. Every cube is like a window to the soul of the artist who inhabits it. “Staff are friendly, artists are supported and in.cube8r is a wonderful kaleidoscope of colour and rich in cultural layers” says Ginetta Chiodo, a maker of pure wool felt heirloom and one of a kind treasures who has held a cube at in.cube8r for a year Labordarite Sterling Silver Necklace, Germano Arts and a half. “They create opportunities
Written by Nina McQueen
If patience is wearing thin to find the perfect present for someone fussy, consider checking out Sarah Schembri Ceramics. These handmade functional tableware ceramics will be on sale for the studio opening. Perfect to lay out for Christmas lunch and dinner! If you need to take a break from running around shopping hectic for Christmas, you can also indulge in Nova’s Film Club screening of Call Me By Your Name. A romance blossoms from irritation to lust between Elio, who meets the charming Oliver during the summer at his family’s Italian estate. Film passes, drink specials and conversations will be on offer in the Nova Bar Kitchen afterwards, included in the ticket price. It’s been another fantastic year for the arts in the inner north, and we’re already looking forward to yet another!
goods larger than any other location in Melbourne dares visitors to look through every cube and not to fall in love with something. Mention this article at in.cube8r to receive 10% off your Christmas purchases this December! in.cube8r gallery and emporium 321 Smith St Fitzroy www.incube8r.com.au
Hand-Felted Frida Kahlo Purses by Ginetta Chiodo
Issue 10 • December
DESIGN AUSTRALIA INSPIRING THE AUSTRALIAN DESIGNERS OF TOMORROW
Are you a painter, a sculptor or someone with an undeniable passion for fashion? Do you glimpse billboards on the freeway and think “I could design that”? Do you have a keen eye for photography and prefer to see the world through a camera lense? Then you might want to think about enrolling in the Academy of Design Australia, located in Collingwood. Words by Estelle Artois Artwork By Orlando Saint-Sebastien Panels - Inspired by flight MA370 (Left page photo) Clothing from Satu collection by Fashion Designer Waheedah Anuar (Right page, middle photo) Artwork by photographer Cindy Chen (Right page, top photo) Group Shot of Academy of Design Australia Teachers Photography by Kerman Daruwalla (Right page, bottom photograph) Page 08 • Arts
Founded back in 1998, the Academy is located in Collingwood, offering a Bachelor of Design Arts in any of the following five majors: Communication Design, Fashion and Costume Design, Filmmaking and Photography, Graphic and Digital Design, Interior Design and Visual Arts, all taught by professionals currently active within the industry of their chosen field. A typical year sees you undergoing three trimesters with the potential to complete a full Bachelor in just two years. What’s more, in 2015, the Academy was accepted as one of many institutions of the global LCI education network and they now offer the opportunity to complete a trimester abroad in one of their partner institutions from anywhere between Barcelona and Montréal. We spoke with the team of professionals at the Academy about cultivating a career in Design. Carlos Pagoda says, “growth of technologicallydriven outcomes in our industry also means that competition is [now] on a global scale, hence the imperative to have students not only ready from the highest creative level, but in terms of how to work, communicate and solve design problems from a much broader perspective.” Carlos is Program Coordinator of Professional Studies and Visual Arts teacher at the Academy whose career saw him as a junior designer for
Australia Post as well as working on projects such as the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, the rebranding of Guinness beer, the inaugural Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix and packaging and branding for Kelloggs, Intel, Nestle, Ben and Jerry’s Ice cream, Adelaide Casino, Hilton Hotels, Gatorade, Chupa Chups, DHL and Visa just to name a few! The Academy wants its students to be able to leave after graduation well-equipped with industry and business know-how to help establish their careers: Projects are based on real world scenarios where possible, acquiring technical skills and developing an understanding of individual potential and personal capabilities. Magda Czapiewska, the Interior Design lecturer calls this, “the cycle of creating, testing, confronting and improving on ideas for the best results.” Magda studied Interior Architecture at the Academy of Fine Arts in Warsaw and Spatial Design in Falmouth University, UK, has run her own design practice for over 12 years implementing design across residential and commercial interiors, and is the designer behind the ‘O!’ lampshade, now manufactured by Italian lighting company Martinelli, despite initial designs being knocked back.
Michelle Mantsio, the Coordinator for Visual
Arts admits that she does experiments, makes failures, yet wants to keep taking chances. “From a personal perspective, that is what being creative feels like to me.” She is currently completing her PHD at the Victorian College of the Arts, has participated in solo and group exhibitions in Australia, Europe, South America, Canada and the United States, was a member of the Melbourne writing collective Stamm and is currently a member of research group the Kinomatics Project. She encourages her students to question her feedback and consider their opinions of what has been said. “I may have a history of knowledge, but they need to find their voice and sometimes it is different to what I think is possible.” She believes this incites an important understanding towards the development of their independent creative voice. “Sooner or later you need to trust yourself: trust that we will be interested in your creative version of the world. The rest is working hard to take it beyond that.” Dr Barry Spencer,Type Designer and Graphic Designer at the Academy, warns that the end of the degree is not the end of your learning. “When you get out you soon find that there is stiff competition for jobs and that even once you have a job, you need to adapt to the environment, structure, timelines and
workflow to make yourself useful as a designer.”
the Academy is always sensitive to making that
Barry studied graphic design at Swinburne, later falling into type design. He has created more than 100 different typeface designs, is researching for his PhD on the subject and has released a book showcasing his transformative approach to creating letterforms.
industry connection to create those paths for
Julie Wajs had no idea about the real world when she graduated with her Bachelor of Fine Arts with Honors in Johannesburg, South Africa. Although she is now lecturer in filmmaking and photography at the Academy, she recalls having to learn on the job for her first job in a photography studio.
his Masters in Interactive Design at Monash
“We never had any industry connections, guest speakers, mentors. The real world was a complete shock to the system.”
open to all forms of influences that will inform
As many artists are freelancing, Julie believes it’s important for students to learn how to be self-driven, self-motivated and able to run their own business within the industry. “You need to be open to everything and anything because the road is never straight and you never know what might be around the corner.” This is echoed by Adryan Scicluna, the Coordinator for Fashion and Costume Design who says, “One’s skillset is truly the only way to roll with this constantly mutating world [and]
the students.” Adryan spent his childhood surrounded by fabric and sewing machines and is completing University. He also has experience in both 2D and 3D Design. One last word of advice from Program Coordinator Carlos Pagoda: “Be aware and your work, be collaborative, but stick to your guns.” If you think you could be part of the next generation of this country’s designers and artists, come along to the Information Afternoon on December 12th at 2pm, in the Academy’s new Collingwood warehouse campus. Find out more, including options to study abroad at LCI network partner campuses, at www.academyofdesign. edu.au Page 09 • Inner Circle Magazine
Inner Circle Magazine • Community
Issue 10 • December
What’s On - Community
Community News
Third Feminist Family Salon Event
The big community news in November was of course the strong and resounding YES result of the recent Australian Marriage Law Postal Survey. People celebrated in the streets, at home and at venues both locally and right across the nation. Here at Inner Circle we hope for a swift change in the law to at last offer equal rights of marriage for all.
Lentil as Anything, Thornbury, Dec 3rd This year’s panel discusses “pink aisle vs blue aisle” gendered marketing (especially around the holidays) and how it impacts families trying to raise children with feminist ideologies.
Gatecrash the Greens Summer Party Handsome Her Cafe, Brunswick, Dec 9th The Victorian Green Women’s Network are collaborating with Handsome Her café in Brunswick for Gatecrash the Greens Summer Party. This event will feature live music and guest speakers by day, DJ’s by night, plus plenty of vegan delicacies and political discourse the whole time through.
SOA Festival
CERES, Brunswick East, Dec 16th Mid-month, CERES brings the Sounds of Africa to Brunswick East with their SOA Festival on December 16. Described as the “central hub for African music and culture in Melbourne”, you can expect a day of crafts, games, drumming sessions, food/drinks and more.
We love Melbourne because its residents foster such great community, engagement, discussion and interaction despite differences. At the start of November, this was exhibited at the Thrive Symposium in Brunswick, where people of varied political views came together to discuss activism and invoke political optimism. That same weekend, local creators and consumers in our community joined forces to celebrate the world of underground comics at Indie Comic Con in Northcote. And what could encourage community more than Melbourne Music Week (held in various
Written by Quincy Malesovas locations)? Some of us may have a very different musical taste than the next crew, but there’s something about seeing live music of any kind that sends shivers down our spine and plants joy in our hearts. As the year draws to a close, we look forward to what 2018 brings. But we can’t ring in the new year without first making sure that our December schedule is as full as ever. To the left are a few of the top community events in the area this month.
Issue 07 • September
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
THE LOCAL SOCIAL ENTERPRISES GEARING UP FOR CHRISTMAS Words by Alex Birch Photography by Liberation Images (The Social Studio), Kate Longley (Art Project Australia), Peter Tarasiuk (Scarf) Style by Us And Them (The Social Studio)
Established in aid of a specific community or social objective, social enterprises differ from traditional not-for-profit models in that they are commercially viable businesses. Springing up across Melbourne in recent years, we caught up with three initiatives of the inner north as they gear up for Christmas.
THE SOCIAL STUDIO Collingwood Responding to an influx of new migrants to the inner north in 2009, The Social Studio is a community hub where people share and develop skills in fashion and design. “Because they’ve come from textile and fashion; tailoring hand made products, crocheting, weaving, it was something they just did, they didn’t go to school for it,” explains Andrea Philippou Latino, General Manager of The Social Studio. Today the enterprise presents three distinct offerings. Downstairs, The Social Studio designs, manufactures and sells unique garments in small runs. “It’s having more of a look at slow fashion, well made product… ethically made product,” Andrea says. New migrants can also come and gain valuable customer service experience working in the shop and practicing English. Next door is The Cutting Table. Serving an Eritrean-Thai-Burmese fusion, staff have the opportunity to taste the realities of hospitality Page 12 • Community
in an introduction to hospitality course that develops a deeper understanding of the industry. “Fashion and food are the two things that translate… if you don’t speak the language you can show people with your hands; you can sew things, pattern making is very visual and so is food, you can cook,” Andrea explains. Upstairs, The Printing Studio runs a Certificate III in Clothing Production in partnership with RMIT. “Our classes are structured. It’s like any other textile of fashion course. We keep it small so that our teachers can do more one-on-one mentoring,” says Andrea. “We use fashion remnants. The industry donates end of rolls and last season rolls. We’re also looking at partnering up with other businesses that have a lot of waste.” This Christmas, The Social Studio will be holding a meet-the-maker Pop-Up, launching a new exhibition and throwing in a platter of zlabia or spring rolls for any catering order over $300.
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
Issue 07 • September
ARTS PROJECT AUSTRALIA
SCARF
Northcote
Fitzroy
Founded in 1974, Arts Project initially sought to advocate for and exhibit the evocative work of artists with intellectual disabilities in a time when their lives were limited. Four decades later, the organization is now a globally renowned working studio and gallery residing in a repurposed shoe factory in Northcote.
Volunteering with Fitzroy’s refugee community in 2009, Hannah Colman and Jess Moran quickly became frustrated with the everpresent ‘you need experience to get a job but you need a job to get experience’ catch-22 faced by so many of the young people they met.
Walking us into the enormous open plan studio where up to 45 artists work each day, Executive Director Sue Roff tells us about the distinguished group of creatives who practice here. “Probably 70% of our artists have some form of autism and then others might have brain injuries or Down syndrome etc.,” says Sue. Light pours through the angled windows over the communal work area. “We have two days of print making, one day of ceramics, four days of digital art [and] a day of 3D sculpture,” Sue explains. “You don’t get to do a specialty program unless you do at least one day of general painting and drawing. Sometimes this can be tapestry, people will collage, whatever medium that they want to work in.” And while the Arts Project artists have exhibited in celebrated galleries in Australia and around the world, there’s no barrier to joining. “The only [requirement is] that a) you want to make art and b) that you can manage a group environment in the studio. You’ll see that a number of people have headphones on and earplugs in because they get overloaded by sound,” explains Sue. On Saturday December 9, Arts Project will be holding their annual gala (food trucks and music included). All works on display will be on sale, the perfect opportunity for sourcing one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts.
Approaching a number of local restaurants, they sought to establish a seasonal program that would offer skilled young people the real-life hospitality experience they required to launch their careers. Having paired trainees with over 110 professional mentors since 2010, Scarf has now partnered with 28 Melbourne restaurants - the likes of Higher Ground Melbourne, The Lincoln and Epocha. Covering key skills such as hospitality resume writing, Work Rights in Australia and interview preparation, the mentors also support their trainees through the season’s dinner service. “Scarf mentors are passionate hospitality professionals who volunteer their time to share skills, knowledge and networks,” explains Scarf Communications Manager Liz Grady. “At the beginning of a season the mentor has a more active role but we tend to find that by week three or four they are very much standing back supporting as the mentor runs the floor.” From the 3 – 10 December, Scarf is holding their first Do More Than Drink campaign. Collaborating with more than 40 bars including Carwyn Cellars, The Beaufort, Neighbourhood Wine and Pallino Bar, the campaign is designed to break down barriers and create more equitable hiring practices in the industry. Aiming to “raise funds so that we can continue to change the lives of marginalised young people”, Liz tells us that the program will “enable future employers to see the enthusiasm, capability and commitment of Scarf’s graduate trainees.” Page 13 • Community
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n the streets cushio of colours all aus locations lots
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Inner Circle Magazine • Fashion
Issue 10 • December
What’s On - Fashion Big Design Market Royal Exhibition Building, Dec 1st -3rd An epic three days of shopping, fashion and creative workshops. This years Big Design Market brings over 230 designers and their creations to Melbourne, just in time for Christmas. Customers can hunt for handcrafted goodies from Australian labels like Magpie Goose, or have a go at customising a pair of Japanese slippers with textile artist Cat Rabbit.
The Sisters Market Brunswick Town Hall, Dec 8th - 9th Perfect for a summer weekend. Shop for clothes and jewellery by local designers and discover clay beads, handmade silver jewellery and stunning vintage skirts.
Collingwood Christmas Market Contemporary Arts Precinct, Dec 17th A brand new market full of goodies from local artists, designers and creators. Have a look for some unique Christmas gifts or find that perfect pair of handmade earrings for the festive season. 12:00pm - 6:00pm.
Fashion News
Written by Ruby Syme
Summer has arrived! It’s (finally) time to pack away your jeans and that trusty down jacket and get the dresses, shorts and singlets out. This season it’s all about classic cuts, strong colours and quality fabrics. Linen is big, and it’s a great choice for summer for its airflow and durability. This classic material is enjoying a revival in Melbourne at the moment with plenty of designers featuring it throughout their collections. Whether you opt for trusty cuts and colours, or for a creative print for a little summer fun, linen is a great choice for an outfit that will keep you cool and last for seasons to come. Block colours are also popular right now, and are great way to make sure your accessories shine through! Pairing a simple red shift or bright blue tee with statement earrings or a stylish cap is the perfect way to achieve effortless summer sophistication. Another great choice making the rounds this season is jumpsuits, which lend themselves
perfectly to any occasion. Funky enough to breeze your way around the park, but classy enough to wear to work or to Christmas drinks in the city, the jumpsuit is a staple that will earn its place in your summer wardrobe. December also brings some of the years best sales to the country. Love them or hate them, the Boxing Day sales are one of the biggest shopping events of the year, and if you’re going to brave them, you need to be prepared! There’s a few key steps to making sure your Boxing Day purchases are exactly what you want, and ensuring you don’t break the bank: First, think about what you really need. It’s a good idea to look through your current wardrobe and go from there. Setting a budget is also key. Have a look at each item and decide what you’re willing to pay for it. It helps to have some boundaries so that you can get more clothes for your cash! Enjoy!
233 Gertrude Street, Fitzroy Est. 1986
Men’s ready to wear and bespoke hats
235 GERTRUDE ST, FITZROY
Inner Circle Magazine • Fashion
Issue 10 • December
2017 FASHION TRENDS THE YEAR OF BOTH REPRESENTATION & OPPOSITION WORDS BY QUINCY MALESOVAS PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED BY CHLOE THOMAS & LISA ZEE
In terms of responding to the cultural and political ethos of an era, fashion tends to do one of two things: rebel against commonly felt sentiments in every way imaginable, or lean in hard to depict the reality we face. In my own interpretation of style this year (personally and otherwise), 2017 appears to straddle both sides. It’s hard to call it when you’re in the midst of it, but in hindsight, certain trends have made themselves evident – some representative of the current climate and others in stark opposition. While I won’t use this as a space to voice my own reflective stance on the years’ happenings, I will recount what I ‘ve seen and what I’ve heard and let you draw your own conclusions about the meaning of Melbourne’s last 12 months of style.
IN TRENDING NEWS • We have been all about cuts and designs catered to bodies and identities within or without the gender binary. Melbourne-based Alabama Blonde, for instance, recently launched a collection of brilliant garments designed with any gender identity in mind. • Harshness is mainstream. Chains and pins and grommets now grace every once untainted bit of fabric. Ripped seams and exposed threads and jagged cuts are favoured. On this note, we’re also really into texture of all varieties: metals, latex, tweed, etc. • This year, we have also loved child-like patterns and colour schemes, such as check and bold primaries reminiscent of a Hot Wheels set. Add a side stripe and a zipper and you’ve got an Instagram-worthy getup. • Speaking of throwbacks, trends of the early aughts were also thriving this year (perhaps even more than they were the first time around). I’m talking Von Dutch and Ed Hardy out the wazoo, newsboy and cowboy hats (note how all hats are gendered, why?), wife beaters (yet again, a political faux pas of the era).
But don’t take my word for it. I also got speaking to some experts in their field with much more insight than I on the year’s stylistic influences and what’s to come.
Page 16 • Fashion
Issue 07 • September
First, let’s start with the perspective of stylist and fashion mogul Chloe Thomas. Inner Circle: Can you describe this outfit and the significance of the items? Chloe Thomas: I recently simplified my wardrobe. My mind is quite scattered and I find it helpful waking up to fewer options. I like dressing in all beige, blue or black. When life feels chaotic I seek shelter in the familiar. These colours remind me who I am and that I’m capable. They offer stability when I can’t find it elsewhere. IC: What trends have you seen in Melbourne this year (specifically in the inner north)? CT: We love a scrappy fishnet stocking, don’t we? Then again, so did the cast of Rocky Horror Picture Show. Perhaps it’s universal. IC: Which do you love and which do you hate? CT: I don’t think I ever cared much for trends. Not as a teenager and not as a stylist. I now prefer to observe trends rather than participate. IC: Where is your personal style drawing inspiration from these days? CT: I’m taking style cues from my younger self– neutral colours, daggy oversized jackets, and a mixture of men and women’s tailoring. Yep, basically Annie Hall! IC: Do you prefer second-hand shopping, buying new or both? CT: I enjoy the process of buying second-hand; the lack of urgency, the dedication to finding something that fits you perfectly, and collecting conversations with staff that remember your name. For me it fosters connection – to the clothes I buy, and also those I overlook. IC: Any predictions of trends or shifts (personally or generally) for 2018? CT: I hope to consolidate my shift towards sustainable clothing in 2018 by conversing with those who inspire me to be better.
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
Inner Circle Magazine • Fashion
Issue 10 • December
On the retail side of things, we got talking to local shop owner Lisa Zee. Inner Circle: Can you tell me a bit about Perfect Match (previously Fitzroy Emporium)? Lisa Zee: Funny enough, the Fitzroy Emporium actually began in Johnston St. as the Abbotsford Emporium. Unfortunately, after a tedious, one-month set up, I finally called defeat and moved to Smith St. and the Fitzroy Emporium was created. It was a cute boutique housing the work of makers, designers and collectors of both clothing and bric-a-brac. The shop ran beautifully for a year and a half, however Abbotsford was always calling... I then found the Johnston St. shop that now houses Perfect Match. It was a simple choice to move back to that community. I also dropped the “designer” component to the shop and now stock only modern and vintage recycled clothes.
IC: What trends have you seen in Melbourne this year (specifically in the
inner north)? LZ: Lots of neutral pastel tones and passive elegant designs. I love this look;
however I do miss the crazy vintage fashion of around 10 years ago – prime colours, cowboy boots, bright colourful tights, etc. IC: Any ideas about where Melburnians are
getting
most
of
their
stylistic
influences from? LZ: I think fashion kind
of backlashes against the last fashion. Brights become subdued. Lairy becomes tame and then back again. It’s all cyclic, but fashion just comes to you in random moments, when you just need a garment or a colour and then you look around and realise others are sporting that look too and we’re all driven by the same creative pull, if that’s what you call it.
Perfect Match: 279 Johnston St Abbotsford, Wed, Thur, Sun 11-5 Fri and Sat 11-8 With all this in mind, what conclusions can you gather about the last year of fashion in Melbourne? Write in to contact@innercirclemagazine.com.au and let us know!
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
Issue 07 • September
Fashion by Foot showcases micro-sized businesses that design and produce exceptional, indie and bespoke clothing and accessories. It supports local independent creatives by introducing more people to the amazing product and talent we have right here in Melbourne. We recently caught up with Melbourne based personal style specialist Donna Cameron of Fashion by Foot to learn a little more about the project, and to find out how we can get involved. Q. For those who don’t know, what exactly is Fashion by Foot and how does it work? A. Fashion by Foot is a walking tour initiative I established with Briar Jasper-Batson (fellow personal image consultant and current President of AICI Melbourne Chapter). Together we run guided tours around inner Melbourne, offering the opportunity to meet local designers and learn about their creative processes. Our focus is exceptional, independent and bespoke fashion and accessories. Fashion by Foot stands apart from ordinary tours because we teach you how to incorporate certain design elements into your outfits - so it’s a walking workshop! And of course Briar and I are available to offer free personal style advice throughout.
FASHION BY FOOT
After you book, you receive the address of our starting point. We begin with bubbles and nibbles (local delicacies of course!) before setting off on our walking tour of up to eight different locations. We get behind-the-scenes access to studios and work spaces where fashion and accessories are made and/or a a designer’s retail space. Midway, we stop to rest, refresh and chat. Q. What was the inspiration behind this unique fashion journey? A. From as early as I can remember I’ve avoided looking like everyone else out there so I’ve experimented with clothing, sometimes borrowing from various sub-cultures and always seeking out good design elements. Since becoming a personal style specialist, assisting clients with body image, colour and style challenges as well as personal shopping, I’ve been privileged to meet many local designers. My eternal quest is uncovering interesting and unique offerings for clients as I specialise in encouraging personalised and individual style. I hate fast fashion and I find chain stores so uninspiring! We are really blessed to have such a vibrant independent fashion scene here. It’s a big part
of what gives Melbourne its uniquely creative culture that, in my opinion, helps make it one of the most liveable cities in the world. But if we don’t support these designers develop sustainable businesses, we will lose them! Many people are too busy to uncover for themselves what’s on offer so they default to fast fashion offerings out of pure convenience. Briar and I aim to turn this around by highlighting the exciting and high standard of fashion produced right here. Q. From a fashion standpoint, why do you think it is important for individuals and fashion designers to connect and communicate directly? A. Retail giants encourage mindless consumerism, dictating rapidly changing trends by producing fast fashion at great cost to those who make our clothes and to the environment. It is wasteful and it needs to change. An open dialogue between maker and customer produces fashion that’s driven by demand, resulting in a much more responsive and sustainable industry.
Many people are out of touch with the process involved in producing a garment and have been so conditioned to seek cheap options they’ve forgotten how this impacts the people who make our clothes. Becoming more mindful when buying clothes and spending a little more for quality Melbourne-made benefits us all. It strengthens our local economy, builds our unique culture and reduces the demand for clothes produced unethically.
Q. When is the next Fashion by Foot and how do we get involved? A. We have one last tour running before the end of the year, called the Brunswick Bespoke Tour. It’s running on Saturday 9 December and tickets are available through Eventbrite. More tours are planned for 2018. To be updated on our upcoming tours for 2018, keep in touch by following us at Fashion by Foot on Facebook and Instagram. If you think this experience sounds perfect for someone you love, gift certificates are available. If you’d like one message us through Facebook or Instagram or email me at donna@bodymap. com.au
Page 07 • Arts
PICNIC INSPIRATION OUR GUIDE TO THE BEST PICNINC HOTSPOTS IN THE NORTH Words by Ruby Syme Photography by Kerman Daruwalla
Grab your picnic blanket and get outside… picnic season has arrived, and the inner north is blessed with a number of city fringe hotspots for to satisfy all your outdoor DIY dining needs! Here’s our collection of great parks to visit, the best takeaway spots to pick up your tasty goodies, plus some bars to head to later in case it gets chilly!
TOP PICNIC SPOTS: Warr Park: Featuring a playground, tables and free barbeques - a great spot for a family picnic.
316 Sydney Road, Monday-Saturday 7am-6pm, Sunday 7am-4.30pm Open early for a breakfast picnic. Pick up croissants, quiches and homemade bread.
The Source Bulk Foods Brunswick
112 Sydney Road, Monday-Friday 9.30am-7pm,
Saturday 9am-5.30pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
One-stop shop for unpackaged (no minimum amount) healthy delicious treats including nuts, dried fruits, protein balls and chocolates as well as all your ingredients for picnic baking.
8pm, Saturday 6am-7pm, Sunday 7am-7pm
Mankoushe
323 Lygon St, Wed-Fri 5pm to 10pm, Sat-Sun 12pm to 10pm A little further afield, but worth it for their creative Midden Eastern pizzas, all under $20. They also do excellent vegan mixed plates ($15) on weekends at lunch, available to take away for $13
AFTER PICNIC BARS:
Brunswick Green
TOP PICK
504 Sydney Road, Monday, Wednesday, Thursday 12pm11pm, Friday-Saturday 12pm-12am, closed Tuesday. Cheap mixed grill and veggie plates and huge serves of dips. They usually throw in some free flatbread with takeaway.
115 Sydney Road, Monday-Friday, 6am-
A Sydney Road institution for great salads and tasty baked goods, both sweet and savory. Shop online at greenrefectory.net
WHERE TO GRAB YOUR FOOD:
Tibas Lebanese
Green Refectory
TOP PICK
Gilpin Park: Natural bush, plenty of winding walking paths and an abundance of picnic perfect grass. Dog friendly.
Choukette
TOP PICK
BRUNSWICK
313 Sydney Road, Tuesday-Thursday 4pm-12am, Friday 3pm-1am, Saturday 2pm-1am, Sunday 2pm11pm, Closed Monday Featuring an epic beer garden with a pond and some seriously comfy couches inside.
Issue 10 • December
280 Sydney Road, Sunday-Thursday 12pm-1am, Friday-Saturday 12pm-3am Huge beer garden complete with astro turf so you can continue on the picnic vibes.
Bar Oussou
653 Sydney Road, Monday-Wednesday 4pm-1am, Thursday-Friday 4pm-3am, Saturday 1pm-3am, Sunday 1pm-1am Cosy beer garden and a dedicated cushion area to laze after a day at the park. Happy hour with $7.50 points from 5pm-9pm daily.
Edinburgh Castle
681 Sydney Road, Monday-Saturday 12pm-late, Sun 12pm-11pm Roomy beer garden (dog friendly) and tons of indoor seating space. Perfect for big groups.
Union Hotel
109 Union Street. Monday-Thursday 3pm11pm,Frday 12pm-12am, Saturday 12pm-12am, Sunday 12pm-10pm Old-style pub with a leafy beer garden and chilled out vibe, just what you need after a day in the sun.
FITZROY/ FITZROY NORTH
Obelix & Co. 217 St Georges Road, Monday-Friday 10am-7pm, Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-5pm
TOP PICNIC SPOTS:
Edinburgh Gardens: This one goes without saying. It can get pretty busy as the weather gets warmer, so make sure you come down early to snavel the best spot. Fitzroy Gardens: Right on the edge of the city, Fitzroy Gardens, technically in East Melbourne, provides the perfect city oasis for a picnic in the sunshine. We recommend you head to the pond and fountain area, find a nice shady spot and enjoy! WHERE TO GRAB YOUR FOOD:
The Vegetable Connection
255 Brunswick Street, Monday-Saturday 9am-7pm, Sunday 10am-6pm Here you’ll find all sorts of fresh and delicious fruit and veg, breads, vegan pasties and other delights.
Just Falafs 207 St Georges Road, Fitzroy North Wednesday-Sunday 12pm-10pm, Tuesday 5.30pm-10pm, closed Monday Try the aptly named “Picnic Plate” for $30
TOP PICK
228 - 230 St Georges Road, Monday-Friday 9am7pm, Saturday 8.30am-7pm, Sunday 9.30am-7pm. Takeaway sausage rolls, cakes and seriously good beetroot and black bean patties. Fridges are stocked with picnic treats like pate and cheeses.
Moroccan Soup Bar
183 St Georges Road, Tuesday-Sunday 6pm-10pm, closed Monday Ideal for a twilight picnic. Bring your own Tupperware and get it filled with grains and veggie goodness for as little as $8.
AFTER PICNIC BARS:
The Fitzroy Pinnacle
251-255 St Georges Road, Monday-Thursday 3pm12am, Friday 3pm-12am, Saturday 12pm-1am, Sunday 12pm-10pm Great mood lighting, eclectic décor, and a courtyard with regular live music.
Underwood Wine Bar
181 St Georges Road, Tuesday-Thursday 5pm11pm, Friday 5pm-1am, Saturday 3pm-1am, Sunday 3pm-10pm, closed Monday Small, intimate and dedicated to Australian produce. Exposed brick walls and low lighting are the perfect after-park remedy.
Royal Derby Hotel
446 Brunswick Street, Monday-Thursday 3pm-late, Friday-Saturday 12pm-late, Sunday 12pm-11pm Soak up the sun in the huge courtyard or play a game of pool.
Empress
714 Nicholson St, Fitzroy North, MondayThursday 12pm-12am, Friday-Saturday 12pm1am, Sunday 12pm-11pm Featuring a great tap list, shady beer garden and warm interior. TRAMWAY HOTEL 165 Rae St, Mon 3pm-10pm, Tues 3pm11pm,Wed 3-11pm, Thurs 12-11.30pm, Fri-Sat 10am-12am, Sun 10am-10pm Intimate pub with board games, live music and incredible burgers, if you haven’t filled up on picnics snacks!
TOP PICK
Wild Things
French inspired charcuterie stocking wholly Australian products with a huge range of house made parfait, terrine and pate. along with Victorian cheeses, salads, wine & beer
TOP PICK
The Retreat
Inner Circle Magazine • Community
Issue 10 • December
Wesley Anne
NORTHCOTE TOP PICNIC SPOTS: All Nations Park/Ruckers Hill: Sprawling grassy areas, playgrounds and barbeques dotted throughout. Merri Park: Munch on picnic goodies next to the running water of the Merri Creek.
250 High St, Monday-Wednesday 2pm-11pm, Thursday 2pm-12am, Friday-Saturday 12pm-1am, Sunday 12pm-11pm Low lighting, craft beer and live music in a former church.
CARLTON/ CARLTON NORTH TOP PICNIC SPOTS: Carlton Gardens: a World Heritage site so you know it’s going to be good. It’s extra nice just by the fountain.
WHERE TO GRAB YOUR FOOD:
Tahina Bar
Natural Tucker
809 Nicholson St, Monday-Friday 8am-5.30pm, Saturday 8am-2pm, closed Sunday Sourdough bakery full of yummy breads, pastries and scones.
I love Istanbul
95 Lygon St, Monday-Thursday 9.30am-11pm, Friday-Saturday 9.30am-3.30am, Sunday 10am10pm Turkish fare like borek, falafel and pitas at great prices.
AFTER PICNIC BARS:
Carlton Yacht Club
223 High Street, 7 days, 11am-9pm Tasty Israeli street food like pitas, salads and shakshuka. All vegetarian and plenty of vegan options.
Along the Park Street bike track: enjoy stretches of grass and shady trees and watch commuter life go by.
Northcote Bakeshop
WHERE TO GRAB YOUR FOOD:
298 Lygon St, Monday-Wednesday 5pm-1am, Thursday 5pm-3am, Friday 4pm-3am, Saturday 5pm-3am, Sunday 2pm-1am Cosy cocktail spot with street side seating and an intimate interior.
Babajan
The Great Northern Hotel
571A High Street, Monday 6am-1.30pm, TuesdaySunday 6am-2.30pm Freshly baked sourdough and hand made pastries. Try an olive and thyme loaf and an almond croissant.
TOP PICK
Sweet Salt Gluten Free Fish n Chips
296 High St, Sun-Thurs 11.00am-9pm, Fri-Sat 11am-10pm Burgers and fish and chips with
plenty of gluten free options. Grab a ‘Gluten Free Family Pack’ or a ‘Calamari Pack’ to share.
Terra Madre
103 High St, 7 days 8.30am-7.30pm A mecca for wholefood goodies. Pick up dips, cheeses, dark chocolate almonds and vegan feta.
AFTER PICNIC BARS:
Buck Mulligan’s
217 High St, Monday-Thursday 4pm-12am, Friday 12pm-2am, Saturday 12pm-1am, Sunday 4pm-2am An Irish bar filled to the brim with awesome whiskeys and killer cocktails.
Northcote Social
301 High St, Monday 4pm-12am, Tuesday 12pm12am, Wednesday-Thursday 12pm-1am, FridaySaturday 12pm-3am, Sunday 12pm-1am A great spot for live music, with a huge deck outside.
Page 22 • Community
713 Nicholson St, Carlton North, Tuesday-Sunday 8am-5pm, closed Monday Corner spot for Turkish breads, salads and pies. Great cakes and biscuits too.
North Carlton Canteen
1008 Lygon St, Monday-Friday 6.30am-3.30pm, Saturday-Sunday 7.30am-3.30pm Salads, sandwiches and cupcakes to go.
644 Rathdowne St, Monday-Wednesday 11am12am, Thursday-Saturday 11am-1am, Sunday 11am-12am A GIANT courtyard (dog friendly) and a killer beer list.
Issue 07 • September
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
Page 07 • Arts
CONQUER THAT CHRISTMAS LUNCH ON
Fairy lights are appearing, crackers are on the shelves, carols are playing and decorations are appearing on every street… Christmas is coming! There are bells in the air, gingerbread is cooking, stockings are being hung and it’s time to start planning presents… but have you thought about Christmas lunch? Whether you’re a fan of turkey or chicken or you favour a BBQ and salad selection, Christmas lunch is one of the biggest events of the day, so it’s important to get it right. But working out what to prepare and organising every homemade morsel can be a daunting task. What to cook for your aunt who doesn’t eat seafood? Should you buy extra food just in case, or will you have too many leftovers? What if your turkey supplier runs out of stock? So many questions can make organising your Christmas feast seem impossible, but sometimes all it takes is a little planning and some great recipes. Here are some tips and tricks from local Sydney Road businesses to help conquer that Christmas lunch battle.
PURE POULTRY Tony De Haas
Planning is key to a smooth Christmas lunch advises Tony. It’s a great way to make sure you don’t miss out on ingredients and avoid the Christmas chaos.
“[Make sure you] order the right sized turkey for the amount of people coming for lunch,” says Tony, as this helps minimise waste and cuts down on unnecessary time in the kitchen. “[Also] think about your oven size as some of the large turkeys may not fit your small oven!”
“So many people leave their Christmas orders until the last week when you can place preliminary orders early and avoid the stress,” he says.
Knowing cooking times is also important, and
“Pick up a Christmas food brochure early to review and plan your perfect day, [and don’t forget to] think of entrée’s, preliminary food or salads.”
Christmas Day.
If you’re opting for turkey, it’s also a good idea to start thinking about the type you want to serve early and get those orders in.
can mean the difference between a perfectly juicy roast and a dry one. Timing your pickups is another tip Tony recommends for a smooth
“Don’t pick up your turkey orders until 1-2 days prior to Christmas Day as you most likely will have a fridge full of other food,” he says. And to make sure all your other collections are seamless, remembering simple things like
“A typical roast lunch or dinner may entail a whole Turkey… or the current trend is Turkey Rolls,” Tony says, but he also recommends trying something new to make the day extra special.
bringing your order receipt along can really
“[There’s] new products such as Turduckens which are turkeys stuffed with a chicken and duck… think outside the box if you want something different.”
But if you really need to drive, having
But whether you’re opting for traditional, or spicing things up with a new recipe, what you’re cooking isn’t all you need to think about. Cooking times, portion sizes and food pickups all need to be considered.
speed up the pick up process. It’s also a good idea to think about alternate transport to avoid traffic in the Christmas rush.
everything organised early can make each pick up a breeze. “The rush to pick up is typically the morning before Christmas,” says Tony, “however if you have placed your order early, pick up the two days before Christmas and avoid the larger rush.”
one as a centrepiece with the top scooped off, served with strawberry and guests [can] dig in with a spoon.” Another recommendation is Aurore’s personal favourite, a Pecora Dairy Bloomy white from Roberston NSW. “[It’s] a farmhouse ewe’s milk, bloomy rind, in full season with a rich nutty and lactic flavor,” she says. “Serve it with home made raspberry compote, it’s just to die for.”
CASEUS CHEESES Aurore Ghigo
Cheeses are a must have for a Christmas lunch spread and while they don’t have to be a special course of their own, they’re great for a nibble throughout the day, Aurore explains. “We always advise to pick 2 or 3 big pieces rather than a few smaller ones,” she says, so that you avoid running out. “There is always uncle Bob who will snap a huge chunk of cheese and leave nothing to the rest of the crowd,” she laughs, so having larger portions will mean there’s plenty left for the whole family. When creating your cheeseboard, Aurore recommends using plenty of variety to really tempt your taste buds. “Different textures, types of cheese, milks and accompaniments are a must to create that perfect cheese board,” she explains. What you pair each cheese with is another important part of getting that platter just right. “A good crumbly Cheddar, served with Bread and Butter Pickle from Jam Lady Jam [is great]” says Aurore. Also delicious is “a blue, bold and strong [cheese like] Roquefort… or an Australian Fresh Goat cheese in season like Holy Goat La Luna.”
LA MANNA FRESH Frank Patti
Classic flavours, homemade goodies and sharing plates are a great idea for Christmas lunch and appear on Frank’s own table on Christmas day. “When I go to my mother or my mother in laws for Christmas there’s a whole range of food. You’ve got turkey, lasagne, aranchini, a lot of salads like a tomato salad, a lettuce salad and an avocado salad,” he says. “You always need a turkey for Christmas and a ham.” Frank also recommends including plenty of variety on the table to cater for all guests and tastes. “You’ve got to have a lot of range on the table as family’s get bigger and some people can’t eat this cause they’re gluten intolerant or that cause they’re vegetarian or vegan,” he says. Having an idea of your guest’s dietary requirements can be helpful and that way you can make sure there’s enough food for everyone to enjoy when the time comes to eat.
Thinking of creative serving styles is another tip, and is something that can really elevate the flavor of each cheese.
For dessert, Frank recommends a fruit plate for a delicious, fresh treat that everyone can enjoy. With so much fresh fruit in season, there are plenty to choose from.
“The H.Mons Brillat Savarin Cow’s milk triple cream from France is creamy, rich and luscious,” Aurore says, “[and] we love a full
To get the best selection Frank recommends selecting pieces that are in season and grown locally in Victoria.
“Watermelon, rockmelon, pineapple and honeydew are classic and cherries are very popular at Christmas time because they’re in season so they’re really big and beautiful,” he says. “You’ve got to have strawberries too, since they’re Victorian at this time of year, and blueberries as well.” “Stone fruits are great too, and mangoes are in season and very popular.” It’s also important to make your platter look great, as your guests will be eating with their eyes first! “When you’re doing your fruit platter lots of colour is important,” Frank explains. “You’ll have yellow fruit, dark red, green fruit… everything you need to make a really nice colourful platter.” “The food has got to look nice as well.”
This article is sponsored by Sydney Road Brunswick Association. Find out more at sydneyroad.com.au
Last minute shoppers, art and design lovers, lazy Sunday browsers and the curious Collingwood community are in for a Christmas treat on Sunday the 17th of December. A unique collaboration between the Fitzroy Markets and the Collingwood Art Precinct is bringing you an afternoon market unlike any other. For one day only the art deco facade of 35 Johnston Street will open into a vibrant courtyard full of more than 70 local makers and artists, alongside a line-up of DJs, food stall favourites and an all-day bar to keep you full of festive cheer. Over the last 9 years the Fitzroy Market has become one of Melbourne’s market institutions - the place to find a pre-loved bargain and meet a friend for a delightful day of rummaging. Picking up on the local vibe of creativity, the Fitzroy Markets are also embracing the history of the old Collingwood Tech and once more welcoming artists and craftspeople into the space. Once inside the airy courtyard, you’ll find an enticing array of plants, homewares, jewellry, garments, gourmet produce and gift items to take home - a great way to shop while supporting your local community. On top of this, you’ll experience an intriguing side
of the inner-north, rarely visited by the public. The Collingwood Arts Precinct is made up of the sprawling building of the former Collingwood Tech (and then TAFE), unused since 2005. Next door to the Tote, you’ll also find the hilarious and provocative Circus Oz and the iconic Melba Spiegeltent — and if you’re lucky, you’ll be able to poke your head through the doors to see some tumbling, juggling and clowning. From early afternoon until dusk, you are welcome to enjoy the vibe, explore the space and enjoy a moment of relaxation in the Christmas bustle - while getting all your shopping done! Children and pets are very welcome and the event is fully accessible. The Collingwood Arts Precinct is in a moment of transition — this incredible inner-city site is set to become a world-class destination for arts lovers, a meeting place for local community and a home for artists, arts organisations and creative industries. Make sure you take up the invitation to take a wander through the halls and yards of a Collingwood icon before work begins in early 2018 and access is limited until the Precinct reopens to the public in 2019. For more information on this project, visit capmelbourne.org
Inner Circle Magazine • Music
Issue 10 • December
What’s On - Music
Music News
Archie Roach
Melbourne Music Week was the clear highlight of November. Over the course of nine days 250 artists played events at various venues across the city in a celebration of its thriving music scene. Overseas acts Chippy Nonstop and Jacques Greene were featured artists, but it was local talent like Briggs, Sampa The Great and Jack River who showcased why Melbourne has the greatest music scene in the country.
The Corner Hotel, Richmond, Dec 5th The Corner’s 21st birthday celebrations continue with a headline show from Aussie legend Archie Roach.
Big Thief Howler, Brunswick, Dec 8th Brooklyn indie rockers hit Brunswick in celebration of sophomore album Capacity.
We Lost The Sea The Gasometer, Collingwood, Dec 15th A special show commemorating the 5th anniversary of acclaimed album The Quietest Place On Earth.
Pez Northcote Social Club, Northcote, Dec 16th Aussie hip-hop royalty plays a one-off hometown show to end the year.
Animal Hands The Tote, Collingwood, Dec 30th Local rockers end their monthly residency with support from the Rag Dolls.
As far as stand alone gigs went in November it was another huge month dominated by some of our favourite female artists. American punk rockers Nots killed their headline spot at The Tote, genre smashing Ecca Vandal lived up to the hype with a thrilling performance at The Corner, and Gordi confirmed her status as the next big thing after wowing audiences at Howler. The turnout for these shows was phenomenal and it’s great to see such a diverse mix of female artists getting the respect and plaudits they deserve.
Written by Ruby Syme
The best thing about December besides the Boxing Day Test is Meredith. For those who’ve missed out on tickets we urge you to get along to some of the top notch sideshows, with the Curtin Hotel showcasing !!! (Chk Chk Chk) Thursday 7th, Downtown Boys Friday 8th, and Japanese Breakfast Saturday 9th. Other top picks for December include Alta’s single launch at Northcote Social Club Saturday December 2nd, Thirsty Merc celebrating 15 years together at The Gasometer Hotel Saturday 9th, and Kllo’s Corner Hotel gig Friday 15th in honour of the release of debut album Backwater.
Interview by Nina McQueen Photography by Mark Wilkinson Issue 07 • September
Page 07 • Arts
Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
Inner Circle Magazine • Music
Issue 10 • December
The last time I remember Nic Cester’s voice, I was nine years old at my best friend’s house for our first sleepover. Get Born, the album that sold over 3 million copies worldwide, was playing in the crappy cd player, and we spent the night playing along on our ‘instruments’, (ice-cream buckets for drums, a pool noodle for the guitar) butchering the classics of ‘Are You Gonna Be My Girl’, ‘Cold Hard Bitch’, ‘Get What You Need’, etc. Needless to say, it’s been a while for me, as well as the rest of the 6 millions buyers of Jet albums worldwide, since hearing Cester’s powerful signature voice. After the iconic Australian band gracefully parted on separate ways several years ago, little expectation was anticipated for future music, until Cester announced the debut of his first solo album, backed by all-Italian band The Milano Elettrica. ‘Sugar Rush’ rushed into release just last month via Bloodlines – Mushroom Group’s latest record label, compiling of a 12-track auditory experience that dips into the realms of Cester’s passion for diverse music. Each track encapsulates an immersive exploration of varying styles and inspirations from psychedelic and soft rock music to blues and soul, accompanied by the recognisable gifted vocals that once belted across the world. Returning to play a homecoming show in Melbourne last month, we at Inner Circle Magazine were lucky to enough to chat with Cester to celebrate his return to the industry.
Inner Circle: Hi Nic! So we’re a local magazine called Inner Circle Magazine that covers areas of interest in Melbourne’s Northern suburbs such as Fitzroy, Brunswick, Collingwood, Carlton… Nic Cester: Oh, I used to live in North Carlton! IC: Amazing! Do you miss the area? NC: I do. I moved to Europe 5 years ago and the last place I lived before then was North Carlton. IC: Well you’ll be back soon to celebrate the new album, ‘Sugar Rush’. Where did the inspiration for this album come from? NC: Well, all over the place. I didn’t have a plan, a manager, a record deal, any expectations, absolutely no one was waiting for me to do anything. Jet split up and I wasn’t even sure if I wanted to pursue music again. I moved to Europe and lived in Berlin for a few years and I started writing music again with nothing in mind. There was no real inspiration, I just slowly started getting back into it and eventually I found a new appreciation for the music and I started really enjoying it again. The good thing was, because I’ve done it like that, there was a new sense of freedom that came with it because there was no album plan; it was writing for the pure enjoyment of writing like I used to in the beginning. IC: That ties in with our next question a bit. How has your personal path within the music industry changed since Jet? Have you become wiser? Is it less about rock n roll? NC: Yeah, well, I suppose. The thing with Jet was that when we started I was 16 years old and we wrote an album that had a huge success and all of a sudden we were in a rock ‘n’ roll band. But I was always listening to all sorts of stuff; I listened to a lot of Crooners from the ‘40s and ‘50s, and I’ve always listened to jazz, classical stuff, and Brazilian music. I’ve
never been precious about genres - I just like music. IC: So what do you want your listeners to know about your solo music? NC: I suppose the most important thing to communicate about it is that it’s not a Jet album. I mean, it’s still me; you can still hear the traces of Jet, the fact that it’s my voice and it’s still me writing songs, but the influencers are much varied and there’s a lot of unexpected twists and turns, I guess. IC: So what’s your favourite song on this album and why? NC: There’s a song called ‘God Knows’ that I really like, mainly just because it’s really fun to sing. This song is a lot more mature; I get to use the full range of my voice, which is a lot of fun. IC: What’s your favourite song in general currently and why? NC: Oh! I have a Brazilian friend that showed me something fantastic today. It’s called ‘Maná’ by Rodrigo Amarante. I also listen to Dean Martin almost every single day of my life. IC: Okay, cool! We’ve already touched on this a bit, but being in Jet for several years previously, what’s the most thrilling part of becoming a solo artist? NC: I guess not having to argue with anyone – just complete freedom to be myself and to go anywhere I want! With that said, I’m not going to sit here and say Jet was awful because it’s a huge part of my life and there were many amazing times that we shared together as a group. I don’t want to give the impression that it wasn’t a happy time for me; there were some amazing years and also some awful years but a lot of love there, still. IC: Yeah, of course. So Jet reformed earlier this year and played the one-off gig at The Gasometer Hotel in Collingwood. Do
you have any favourite memories of the Inner North? NC: Well, yeah, The Great Northern – when I was living there [North Carlton] was a place I used to go to a lot. To be honest, Gerald’s Bar was always my favourite to go. And whenever I’m back in Melbourne I always say hello. As far as bars, I mean, to be honest it’s changed so much, every time I go back there there’s a new place that I’ve never heard of. IC: Who would be your dream musician to collaborate with or support? NC: Hmm… they’re all dead, I think. I’m more interested in working with people from different genres, you know? I’d actually love to work with some hip-hop artists in the future. There is a plan to work with an Italian hip-hop artist in the next few weeks. I really enjoy the challenge of getting outside your comfort zone and in doing so, recognising all of the parallels rather than noticing all the things that are different. You realise that actually there’s way more things that are shared and in common than otherwise. IC: What’s the most surreal experience you’ve had? NC: I think probably the MTV awards was the most surreal experience I’ve ever had, just because it was so… it was just so ridiculous. Like, it wasn’t an unfamiliar place for us to be around; to be thrown into that super American culture with all the big, over the top hip-hop artists and stuff. Like Nelly and… yeah, definitely that, that was so fucking weird and kind of ridiculous. Sugar Rush is available now to buy and stream: smarturl.it/NicCesterSugarRush. For a throwback live performance, Jet will also be playing at Melbourne Zoo’s Twilights on March 3 2018. Tickets are selling fast so be sure to head to: zootwilights.org.au/?artist=jet.
Page 29 • Music
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Inner Circle Magazine • Arts
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