CRAIC Addict Graffiti
Crime or edgy art?
irish ink
Check out ireland’s tattoo culture
New Media Health apps acta Blogging
reviews
raven Project X the Stranglers the Boss
WaLLIS BIrD Ireland’s coolest songbird reveals all
CONTENTS Addict
Tattoos still taboo? page 12
PAGE 4 NEWS
The latest culture news from around the country
PAGE 6 FEATURES
Wallis Bird discusses her rise to pop stardom with Leonie Holly
Does religion matter to young people? - page 29
PAGE 8 FEATURES
Graffiti: Public eyesore or cutting edge art?
PAGE 14 FASHION All the latest in street fashion
PAGE 17 REVIEWS
What’s out, what’s good and what to avoid
Fashion designer to the stars, Una Burke, interviewed - page 10
PAGE 23 NEW MEDIA
Beats headphones, Kony 2012, ACTA and more
PAGE 28 OPINION
Opinion? We got lots of that
Come Dine with me page - 31
c i a
r c
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was never quite sure what the purpose of an editorial is. From reading magazines over the years. Some would promote the contents of the publication, whereas others would be unrelated, opinionated rants from the editor. Where should I fall on this m atter? After a few long and hard weeks putting this magazine together, I think now is the time to really soak up just how much it has to offer. Thanks to a collection of some of the most talented young journalists in the country, we’ve assembled what I feel is a must-read breakdown of Irish pop culture. From films and music to more unconventional modern arts like tattoos and graffiti, it’s all covered in Craic Addict. Over the course of the last few weeks, from listening to the ideas put forth by the team of editors and writers, I definitely got the sense that this magazine would deliver on what its original goal was – to offer an enjoyable and insightful Irish pop culture magazine for young adults. Design editor: Robert McNamara Deputy design eds: Eric Johannson
News, reviews, opinions and interviews with some of the best up and coming names, it’s all here. So stop reading my lame editorial, and enjoy the magazine.
rphy
Barry Mu
y Murph t Barry ic addic a r C , r Edito
News and opinion editor: Philippa Brennan Deputy news ed: Tom Horan
Review Editor; Leonie Holly Deputy review Editor; Frank Carlin
Fashion editor: Roisin Curran Deputy fashion ed: Róisín Delaney
Features editor: Karen O’ConnorDesmond Deputy features ed: Sophie McDermott
Ruth O’Shaughnessy
Gary Whelan Kevin O’Brien
New media editor Shane O’Riordan Deputy new media ed: Síofra Mannion
NEWS 4
THINGS WE DIDN’T KNOW LAST YEAR
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hickens can feel empathy according to research conducted by scientists at the School of Veterinary Sciences at the University of Bristol. In a study, hens mirrored reactions or feelings by their chicks. Chickens and hens were chosen for this study as it is believed that empathy evolved to aid parental care.
We use 20,000 words on average but we keep another 40,000 reserved just in case.It is difficult to estimate on average a person’s vocabulary range but according to
dictionary expert and TV lexicographer, a person uses about 20,000 active words while they have on average 40,000 passive words in their vocabulary. Dogs can distinguish the greedy from the generous. New research has showed that dogs are more likely to approach those who they think will give them food. In research carried out by Italian scientists a test dummy who offered food to another participant was more appealing to the dogs than the other participant who did not share their food. When the dogs were released they
were more likely to run to the generous participant to beg for food. Cows have best friends. Research by a PHD student in Northampton University showed that cattle can become stressed when separated from their preferred partner. K rista McLennan monitored heart rates and cortisol levels and believes that her findings could help milk yields. How mooving.
Niamh Dillon Pic: Niamh Dillon
MICK FLANNERY TO RELEASE NEW ALBUM
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rish singer songwriter, Mick Flannery releases his eagerly anticipated third studio album ‘Red to Blue’ on Friday March 30th. The album features recent single ‘Gone Forever’ and songs ‘Boston’ and ‘No way to live’. In an interview with Craic A ddict
reporter Niamh Dillon, Flannery be mixed and mastered by Ryan admitted he doesn’t harbour any Freeland who has previously worked “grandiose ambitions or notions” with Ray LaMontagne. and describes his latest release as Mick embarks on a nationwide “fresh, available misery”. tour beginning Friday 20th April in Recording began almost 2 years Dolan’s, Limerick. ago and finished in November 2011 Niamh Dillon when the album was then sent to
Event Addict Il Divo O2, Dublin
Shakespeare’s Macbeth INEC, Killarney
Cirque de Soleil, Alegria O2, Dublin
April 5th. Tickets €49.65
May 2nd. Tickets €20.00
Jedward Royal Theatre and Event Centre Co. Mayo
April 29th. Tickets €49.20 to €70.70
Diversity Odyssey Arena, Belfast
April 10th. Tickets €30.00
April 15th. Tickets £27.50
Compiled by Amber Galwey
Addict
NEWS 5
CARLOS SLIM - WORLDS RICHEST MAN
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orbes’ annual rich list experienced no change at the top, with Carlos Slim Helú keeping his title as world’s richest man. His $69bn fortune, though $5bn lower than last year, remains ahead of that of Bill Gates or Warren Buffet
who are in second and third place respectively. This is the third year in a row that the Mexican mogul has topped the list. Slim, 72 year old widower and father of six, is chairman of Telmex, a telecommunication company based in Mexico City. The company
was recently fined $1bn by Mexican regulators for unfair business practices, though Slim is appealing the decision. Guess he’s the real Slim Shady!
IMPORTANT DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
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stuff we can’t get enough of
Memes: The latest craze to sweep Facebook since mass jokes. These witty, picture based jokes are so popular right now, and topics range from colleges, locations and politics.
Tom Horan
he day that kicks the month of April off is Aprils Fools’ Day, which has been moved from the 1st to the 2nd of April this year. Easter falls on April 8th and is the most important date on the Roman Catholic
addicted
alendar. But to most of C us it is the day we stuff our faces with chocolate. April 15th 2012 marks 100 years since the RMS Titanic sank with 1,514 perishing in the icy water. A date to remember for all you music fans out there is Record Store Day, which takes place on
April 21st. A date that we don’t always remember is April 24th, which marks the 96th anniversary of the 1916 Easter Rising.
Luke Hogg
Eurovision: Speculation is already mounting about who could be this year’s winner! Love it or loathe it, Eurovision mania has hit!
Humansofnewyork.com: This website features hundreds of high q uality photographs of the individuals who roam New York City, updated daily.
Pic: Creative Commons
cold turkey
ASHTON KUTCHER OUT OF THIS WORLD
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o Ashton is the latest celebrity to start planning for a trip to outer space. Following in the footsteps of stars like Sigourney Weaver and Angelina Jolie, who are among many rumoured to be interested in the Virgin Galactic journey. A date is yet to be set for Kutchers outer space journey, as tests are still being carried out on the rockets, primarily SpaceShipTwo. The s pace-ship is capable of carrying six passengers and two pilots. The real question is: just how
soon can we start shipping off all those annoying celebrities into outer space? And does anyone know if Lindsay Lohan has signed up yet?
Philippa Brennan Pic: Wiki Commons
The habits we just can’t seem to kick
Kate Middleton’s Clothing: Do we have to face daily media coverage on the Duchesses’ outfits? Is this what we can expect for the next 50 years?
€500 smartphones: Just how smart can they be? And how long until they’re replaced by the newer model? Phone prices are spiralling out of control, and we’re not buying into it.
FEATURES 6
WALLIS BIRD AN INSIGHT INTO THE INTRIGUING MIND OF AN ARTIST Written by Leonie Holly Photo by Jen Oellermann
FEATURES Addict
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H E N speaking to the wild and w o n derful Wallis Bird, even through a phone line, I can feel her presence. Her sheer laid back nature would intrigue any person and believe me, intrigued I was. Wallis Bird’s third album is both self-titled yet, as Bird claims, “simply untitled”. She intended to un-title it rather than selftitle it because throughout the writing and recording of the album, it was entirely a “free piece which worked its own personality upon itself...Such an easy thing to record.” Because of it being so broad and indepth in many ways, there was no joy in searching to name the record. So Bird remarks that she “left it to find its own way.” From the start of Wallis Bird’s success she has been surrounded by mostly the same group of people - A idan, Vinny, Christian and Aoife, all of whom contribute to her story and music in their own individual way. “These guys are my family...We all really enjoy pushing each other to d ifferent realms of skills. We push each other out of our comfort zones so that we can learn something new. We all feed off each other in that way, so I definitely think that the only thing we ever wanted to do was to do everything better than the last time. Our best record is always our next one. That’s kind of our view to life.”
Music has always been a main part of her life.
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down to me and showing me how to play it. I was
Our best record is always our next one. That’s kind of our view to life As a toddler, she was introduced to music by her grandfather. “My granddad brought me into the spare room and he showed me this accordion that was on top of the wardrobe. I remember him lifting it
just blown away by the imagery and the sound of it. I brought my family out to watch me sing and blaring out this accordion that I couldn’t play and I remember that being my first ever gig.”
“I’ve always been writing songs...As a toddler sitting down playing with toys, singing and making up a story about why these were my favourite toys. As memory serves me, I remember writing songs soon after.” Every album produced of Wallis Bird’s music takes you on an emotional rollercoaster. From Country Bumpkin to Just Keep Going on her debut album Spoons, and from To My Bones to Measuring Cities on her last album New Boots, Bird and her band cover almost every emotion. From utter uncontrollable happiness to the depths of depression and sadness; her new album is set to be the same. Recorded in three specific and separate locations, Bird’s un-titled/ self-titled album is set to take you on a trip like the rest of her works. As I tend to crave to know what goes through people’s thoughts, I could not help but wonder what goes through an artist’s mind when they write their deepest feelings on a page. In Wallis’ new album the song In Dictum is Bird’s approach to self-improvement, realising what she has done wrong in the past and hoping to face it and fix it. “This song shows my feelings of self-entitlement. I just push things that are good for me away because I get scared that I’m going to need it too much. Something that I love, I used to just suck it dry and then
throw it aside, so I’m trying to tell myself not to do that. But it is hard to face up to the stuff that you don’t like about yourself so that’s what this song is about.” The song But I’m Still Here, I’m Still Here is a major indicator of how open and honest Bird is through her music to her listeners. “This is about contemplating suicide and the differences between somebody doing it and not doing it. That when you are so low that your mortality is there and it is your choice to stay or not. You didn’t ask to be born, so by default you have a choice if you want - to stay or not. Well, that’s what I think about it.” Wallis Bird is a talented original artist and is definitely worth a listen to. Her new album Wallis Bird has just been released and is on shelves now, so go out and give her a listen. And if an opportunity arises to see the lady in question, do not, under any circumstances, say no. Her hair-raising, guitar-string breaking performance is not one to be missed.
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FEATURES 8
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hey say all globe, many Irish cities great art is have experienced the controversial . graffiti trend and some In no other have embraced it as a s u b g e n r e burgeoning part of the of art is that phrase culture of modern art. “I just like the more apt than the ever growing phenomenon freedom,” graffiti artist of graffiti. With vibrant Evan told Craic Addict. always been characters and “I’ve multi-coloured banners interested in art. I was decorating dozens of always interested in old and grey buildings the logos that people across Ireland, the did and so I started debate continues to drawing them all over rage as to whether my books… I just kept or not graffiti is an getting better and art form to be valued better and it’s really and adored or simply addictive.” The Limerick mindless vandalism. native spoke Like most other major city urban sites across the passionately about his
trade, surrounded by complex lettering and colourful montages painted on cold city concrete behind him. Working under the name Bias, Evan has been establishing himself on the underground graffiti scene for over three and a half years. Part of what motivated him was the “ego trip” associated with having people recognise his work. Making a name for oneself is a major aspect of the graffiti culture, especially when you consider so many prominent
ieces in major cities p are merely an artist’s name drawn in an elaborate and beautiful fashion. One of the more renowned names in the international graffiti scene, Banksy, was able to establish himself as a cult figure for his innovative and unique creations, which have since been published in a book. While many may view graffiti as a destructive act and one that damages the integrity of a city, many artists including Evan view it as a practical way of giving young people
s omething to do, helping to keep them away from trouble. “If you take some kids from a dilapidated area who have nothing to do and introduce them to graffiti, it’s the best medium for them to express themselves,” Evan claimed. “Graffiti is all about making a name for yourself... people will recognise you for it.”
FEATURES 9
Words: Barry Murphy Pics: Róisín Delaney The theoretical uses for graffiti are hard to invest in, as designated areas for artists are limited. There have been instances in recent years of local councils in Ireland enlisting the services of local graffiti artists for various projects, as well as designating particular areas for them to practice. However, these areas are small and don’t offer enough to the thriving underground community. The negative connotations of the art are hard to deny and even a die-hard supporter such as Evan recognises some of the less flattering aspects of graffiti. However, smaller
‘tags’ with nothing more than just an artist’s name can develop over time into intricate and colourful murals, lighting up an o t h e r w i s e dull and grey cityscape. The legality of graffiti has been a hotly debated subject of late and from speaking to an artist it seems as though the s o m e w h a t rebellious nature of the art is an appealing factor. Evan wonders that if graffiti was legalised would it lose the nostalgic aspect which
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appeals to many artists. While the act itself may be controversial, artists who establish themselves in graffiti can potentially
artistic talents, whether it’s advertising or graphic design. In this regard, graffiti may be spawning the next generation of hugely influential minds in the world of art. Ultimately, what graffiti amounts to is an expression from a group of people about their city. Evan talks vehemently about graffiti’s contribution to a city: “It makes it [the city] vibrant. If you’re going around every day seeing grey high-rise buildings in a city, it’s disgusting. And those people don’t ask us what we want to see in the city so why should we ask them what
Many artists view graffiti as a practical way of giving young people something to do open up a variety of careers for themselves. Evan notes that there are many legitimate occupations open to those with unique
they want to see? There’s a lot of visual pollution in the city and it’s not the graffiti.”
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FEATURES 10
una burke
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Niamh Dillon speaks to the Irish designer who has dressed the stars
RISH designer Una Burke has previously dressed Rihanna and Lady Gaga and continues to scoop up award after award, but it is her artwork which she is excited about today. While Una has had many highlights in her career so far, she says that one of the most exciting is her exhibition at SHOWStudio which sees her regarded as a contributor to the famous creative gallery which counts Alexander McQueen and John Galliano among its influential contributors. The exhibit, which opened on the March 22, focuses on pushing people to examine how females are depicted in society by men as sexual figures.
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“I have always been very interested in the mind and why we behave the way we do.
I’m an observer by nature but I also admire strong characters and visual metaphors of different characteristics.” As a young girl, Una says she was always making things or designing clothes and it was during secondary school that she knew fashion was her calling in life. “I had very specific dreams, almost lucid, where I could see models on the runway wearing my
designs. Even the stitching was so detailed”, she says. Having spent three years studying in the Limerick School of Art and Design, Una took a year out and moved to London to work with a handbag company. During this time she also worked with Philip Tracey before returning to college to complete a Masters. It was while studying for her MA in Fashion Artefacts in the London College of Fashion she turned down a position with Burberry. However, Una’s love affair with leather, which began in her diploma year of college, resurfaced and she began to work with the material once more. “It’s a difficult material,” says Una, “and you have to learn how to handle and respect it.” Her designs quickly garnered the attention of the Craft Council of Ireland and won the 2009 Future Maker and 2010 Emerging Maker awards. While Una had already been recognised in the art community and fashion world, the public only began to take notice when Lady Gaga wore a commissioned outfit during her Monsters Ball tour. “It’s nice when people focus on the craft aspect. I don’t particularly get the obsession with fame, however it’s fantastic to have the publicity for my work that Lady Gaga can bring to it,” she says modestly. While Una is primarily based in London she says that she would like to return to Ireland in the
future. However, she feels that the Irish Government doesn’t recognise fashion and design enough in this country. “The government are quite narrow-minded in their approach and we need to broaden the minds of people in power. When you go on any job site there is no option for fashion design. The government don’t respect it fashion as a c areer. There is funding available in London to go to Paris every season yet there is very little help for d esigners in Ireland.” For the time being, Una’s main focus is the art exhibition and the launching of her exclusive collection for the Joyce Boutique in Hong Kong in April.
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HEN we see girls as young as six y e a r s old with spray tans, wigs, false eyelashes, excessive make-up and donning thousand euro costumes, we think of American beauty pageants. But this circus act is closer to home than we think. Participants in competitive Irish dancing will tell you that the sport is as cut-throat as any other. To do well, the hours spent training to achieve a high standard of dance isn’t enough - appearances are crucial. Eimear Broderick from the Michael Dillon School of Irish Dancing in County Clare has been dancing from the age of four. She was six when she first started to compete and admits she wore make-up and wigs as this was the norm. Now 19, she has recently secured a place in the World Championships which will take place in Belfast in April. She recounts the time her hair began falling out as a result of the wigs she wears while competing as though it’s a natural o ccurrence. “My hair started to fall out in the places where I had been pinning the
FEATURES 11 wig on too hard, when it happens we just have to find new ways of putting it on.” Traction alopecia occurs when hair follicles have been pulled and as a result scar tissue has built up, causing hair loss. This is a common occurrence among dancers but spoken of in hushed tones in Irish dancing circles. Although training begins months in advance to competition time, the gruelling beauty routine is set in motion the night before, when the first layer of tan is applied. On a typical competition day, around two hours are set aside for applying make-up, wigs and getting into costume. The pressure to look a certain way and do well can have serious effects on dancers. Seeing girls as young as eight have panic attacks on stage isn’t an unusual sight for Eimear. Weight restrictions are nothing new to size 10 Eimear either; she has been told in the past she would benefit from losing weight in order to be “lighter on her feet.” The sacrifices made by dancers aren’t merely physical either. Wigs cost over €100 and can last anything from three years
to a few months. Each lesson must be paid for and those who dance competitively will have hours of training a week to do, depending on the importance of the upcoming event. From the time she began dancing Eimear estimates she has spent over €18,000 easily. Entrance fees to competitions can vary and there are no monetary p rices in Irish dancing. Kirstie Landers began to dance for Sheenan Murphy School of Irish Dance in Co. Kerry at the age of six. She loves dance but stopped taking part competitively. She grew tired of the pressure put on girls in terms of appearance. She recalled a time when her and her team were each told they had to wear Spanx u nderwear to “suck in and flatten their stomachs.” Now she saves her dancing for Scór, a competition which is run by the GAA and far more traditional. The compe tition requires no wigs, while tan and make-up are at your d iscretion. Dumbfounded by the whole thing, never having danced myself, I incredulously questioned Eimear on why she continues to compete with all the pressure it
c arries. “Everything has its positives and negatives. There are so many good sides to dancing - the exercise, the friends I’ve made, and the places I’ve got to travel around the world. The fake tan and wigs are a small price to pay for me.”
Wigs and Reels
Irish dancing in the modern world - Karen Coyle Sketch: Roisin Curran
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FEATURES 12
“Now people request Picasso, Salvador Dali pieces”
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here was a time in Ireland not that long ago when some people perceived the art and tattoo worlds to be two completely separate entities. People were actually afraid or suspicious of a person with tattooed skin. OK, admittedly there may have been some shady characters with spider webs tattooed on their shaved heads but c’mon, even that guy has a mother who loves him. And this was as recent as the early 1990s. We have always been a little behind the more progressive countries of the world, but times have changed people. The only thing to be afraid of back then was
the horrendous quality of work, but this was mostly down to the customer’s bad choice of design or lack of research into the studio. Like a house painted some ghastly colour, don’t blame the paint or the painter; blame the owner of the house. Fortunately with the advancements in technology available to the artists these days such as tattoo machines, needles which are as detailed as the finest pen available and the quality and variety of ink, the standard of work is infinitely better than in the past. Coupled with the evolving tastes and choices of clients themselves, the old taboo
attached to tattooing is thankfully dying. Gone are the days of tacky designs; now people request Picasso and Salvador Dali pieces and Renaissance work such as Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel masterpiece. People from all backgrounds are now having work done, from tradesmen to business managers, both male and female. Although most have their pieces in places which can be concealed, there are tattoos hiding under shirts and ties all over the country. The culture is growing and evolving in Ireland; some of the artists here now are world renowned. Guys like Remis Cisaukas of Skin City
Tattoo in Dublin, Joe Myler of J.M.D’s Body Art in Waterford and Ross Nagle of All-Star Ink in Limerick. The amazing Martin Luthor King and Louis Armstrong pieces above are done by Remis and clearly show the amazing evolution of the industry in this country. This is being recognised now on a global scale. Just this past March, All-Star Ink in Limerick hosted Miami Ink artist and worldwide celebrity Chris Nunez for a two week guest spot which apparently went so well he is making a return. The guys in All-Star are doing an amazing job promoting Irish tattooing all over the world. As well as Chris returning, in the next couple of
months alone, they have Chicago’s Nick Coella and L.A Ink star Dan Smith arriving for guest spots. There are exciting times ahead for collectors in Limerick and the rest of Ireland. In times gone by, people in suits pointed their fingers at tattooed people, discriminating against them. Now in a recession caused by white-collar crime, it’s people with tattoos who look at suits as criminals. It’s funny how times change.
Gary Whelan
TATTOOS No Longer Taboo
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FEATURES 13
IT’S ONLY OKAY IF WE
SAY IT
Roisin Curran looks at Irish comedy culture
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hroughout the world we Irish have been revered for our poetry, our ballads, our nostalgia and most importantly of all, our love of laughter. We can take a good ribbing and dish it back tenfold. In a survey done by Empathy Marketing in the year 2009, it was discovered that a sense of humour was considered the number one Irish characteristic. But dig a little deeper and you will find an undertone of sensitivity and pride lurking in our laughter. We notoriously love to laugh at ourselves. Be it out of sorrow, irony or familiarity, the Irish laugh about the Irish. Haven’t you seen shows like Mrs Brown’s Boys, Killinaskully and Father Ted? Or the stand-up shows like Dara O’Briain and Tommy Tiernan
and the success that comes with them? When we’re taken the mickey out of, we find it hilarious. It’s something very innate, the recognition of whatever humorous condition we have and the non-stop stream of insulting jokes about it thereafter. But here is where the sensitivity comes in to play. It’s only okay if we are the ones making the joke. It’s an indignant and sensitive condition of the Irish. We’re allowed rip into each other because in some shape or form, we’ve suffered in the same way. Be it your dog tore the washing off the line or you both lost your jobs, we find unity in humour. But when another nation comes along to do the same thing, it’s out of order. It means they’re reinforcing stereotypes. We’re a pretty easy-going country to say the least,
but we don’t like being pigeonholed by our shortcomings. We’ve had our times of darkness, our losses, our strife and our hardships. Our sense of humour has stemmed from that, making us a stronger and more appreciative nation. We’ve paid our dues and now it’s time to laugh about it – but only amongst ourselves. No other state could begin to appreciate our jokes and we won’t apologise for laughing. For if you don’t laugh then you are going to cry. And the last thing we want is a stream of tears approaching the dole office - that’ll get the stuffing kicked out of you.
It’s only okay if we are the ones making the joke. It’s an indignant and sensitive condition of the Irish.
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FASHION 14
FASHION PYJAMAS
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veryone has heard of these rare creatures, these apparent youths that wander the streets in their pyjamas. If you’re lucky, you may have come across one yourself and lived to tell the tale. Thanks to a recent RTÉ documentary, people all over Ireland are sitting up and taking notice of these hoodlums that forgot to change once they got out of bed in the morning. These people may also be known as: ‘Pyjama Girls.’ In recent times, the social problem of pyjama girls has come under a lot of scrutiny by the media and the public. So we here at Craic Addict decided that we wanted to see for ourselves what exactly it means to be a Pyjama Girl. The subject picked to play the part of a teenage girl in pyjamas was yours truly. I took to the streets of Limerick City in my most ravishing pair of bright pink jammies and I have to say, I learned a lot. From the minute I stepped outside, I could feel every Tom, Dick, Harry, Mary and Bridie all watching me with disapproving glares, hoping against hope that I walk the other way. This, for me, was the major downfall of the day. No matter where I turned, there were always strangers (most of them elderly) that looked at me like I was something on the bottom of their shoe. Really? Just because I was wearing pyjamas, everyone assumed I was trouble. I mean, I could have been a choir girl or spent the last year rescuing poor orphans in some war-ravaged part of the world for all they knew. Perhaps the most interesting aspect of the day was learning that people were actually intimidated by the pyjamas. When I was in earshot, people glanced and looked quickly away, but when I had walked a
Addict
in public
bit further on the comments started. Basically, I’m a dirty disgrace and I shouldn’t be allowed out. Perhaps the most funny was an old lady who said a prayer for my poor mother. Little did she know that my mother was perfectly content with me wandering about in my pyjamas. As long as I left my beloved onesie at home, she was quite proud. I also found that I was what other teenage girls compared themselves to. One girl in the supermarket told her mother she should be worshipping her for not being the idiot in her pyjamas - I thought that one was particularly harsh.
Sophie McDermott: “Everyone assumed I was trouble... What exactly is society scared of?
But the comments weren’t just restricted to people I passed on the streets, drivers also were determined to have their say. One particular man felt it was perfectly okay to roar across the street at me, demanding to know why I was in my pyjamas. Now I could have launched into the whole tale of social stereotyping, but the light turned green so he took off with his question and the assumption I was a nutter still lying in the air. So, what exactly is society scared of? Everyone’s entitled to wear what the hell they want, inside their home and out. As a matter of fact, after my day as a pyjama girl I developed a grudging respect for them. They deal with the same stereotypical nonsense every day, and feel the wrath of elderly people who came very close to gathering their pitchforks and chasing them out of town. My lesson of the day: give the brave and lazy girls a break.
Noble versus nubile Róisín Delaney on classy birds
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t’s the classic case of broadsheet versus tabloid where Kate Middleton and Georgia Salpa are concerned. Both are famous in their own right, but both are being portrayed in very different lights. Kate Middleton - now Catherine the Duchess of Cambridge - has always been recognized for her poise, elegance and private nature. She was recently voted the most wellmannered person for 2011 by The National League of Junior Cotillions. This award wasn’t just for her speech and etiquette, however, but as the most appropriately dressed and best-spoken high-profile figure. Well done Kate. Georgia Salpa, of The Andrea Roche Model Agency, is never shy and always on the lookout for the camera lens. She is undoubtedly Ireland’s most desired young lady, but this model can play many roles. Her Celebrity Big Brother stunt in 2011 proved that this Irish
babe is not a beast, and in reality is a natural beauty with a charming personality. In Georgia’s case, Irish girls want to be her and Irish boys want to be with her. Whereas in Catherine’s case, girls from all around the world want to be her and boys all around the world want to be her Prince. The Irish mammy would welcome the picture-perfect Catherine into her home any day, maybe even curtsy. However, the Irish mammy might be reluctant to have Georgia over for dinner, for fear of fake tan streaking the table cloth. This shows the power of the media and the influence it has on us all. Georgia is a model. She can adapt different roles, just like she can dress in lingerie for one photo shoot and a ball gown for another. It’s her job. Catherine has spent the last decade preparing for her role as Duchess, and so she has earned the title of elegance. That’s her role. The only difference between both girls’ career paths is that sex sells. But despite the over-the-top media attention both ladies receive, day in and day out they keep their cool and ignore the reports to keep their reputation. Each has her own legion of devotees, and when it comes down to it, it’s a matter of personal taste. Both are perfectly good role models in their own way.
Ireland flourishes in Spring
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espite the size of our small island, when it comes to fashion, Ireland has it in abundance. Our designers rival those from the biggest fashion capitals in the world. This talent was witnessed around the globe when Irish designers showcased their Spring/ Summer collections and proved we have a lot going for us in the fashion stakes. Galway-born Philip Treacy, with his legions of fans ranging from Madonna to Lady Gaga, shone at both New York and Paris fashion weeks recently. His edgy, futuristic headpieces, which followed Manish Arora of Paco Rabanne’s brief of “flying saucer hats,” put the finishing touches on the label’s metallic-emphasised Spring/ Summer 2012 collection. Simone Rocha, who made her debut at London Fashion Week, is not one to be overshadowed by her father John, and is
steadily carving out a name for herself. For her Spring/Summer 2012 collection, Simone wanted designs that were fun with bold patterns, yet wearable. Her designs are a mixture of femininity and masculinity, hard versus soft; A-line skirts pairing with tall collars. The theme of multiple layers influenced the collection greatly, and can be seen in Rocha’s fusion of lace with plastic and fluorescent colours. Paul Costelloe opened London Fashion Week with a collection that embodied romanticism and innocence. He used neutral palettes to showcase his looks, which were inspired by the film What Ever Happened to Baby Jane? Other Irish designers who caught the eye of the fashion world this season were Joanne Hynes, J.W Anderson, fashion veteran Daryl K and the up-and-coming Dean Quinn. Only proving that the future of Irish fashion is in safe hands.
Karen Coyle
celebrates the vibrant Irish fashion scene
VSL
fASHION 16
E
dgy and elegant statement pieces are just some of words associated with VSL jewellery. In only a few years the VSL brand, created by Irish designer Vikki Shorten, has established a celebrity clientele most designers can only dream of. Her designs have grabbed the attention of Lady Gaga, Rihanna and Paris Hilton while the Black Eyed Peas singer Fergie sported custom made cuffs during her last world tour with the band. “That really was a highlight”, says Vikki. “Fergie came on stage to perform I’ve Got a Feeling wearing my designs and it was just one of those amazing moments”, she says. Since then Vikki has designed for Britney Spears for the Femme Fatale tour while X Factor judge Tulisa Contostavlos was also
spotted wearing her designs during the X Factor live shows. It is this celebrity exposure which has made VSL jewellery the latest must-have brand today. However Vikki had her new status as designer to the stars a long time coming. Growing up in New York instilled an edgy yet elegant focus in Vikki’s designs. “I wanted to turn my passion into a career and I was confident that I could succeed as I knew that my designs were on trend”, says Vikki. Having spent years designing jewellery and making pieces for herself, Vikki finally decided to start her own company. “When I hit 30 I took a look at what I really wanted for my career. Although I had a successful PR company, design and fashion was always something I was interested in”, she says.
LADYBOYS
R
ipped jeans. Giving a teasing, sexual insight into the most erotic body part – a male leg. Bound so tightly that each particle of skin bulges through the carefully manufactured ‘tear’, reminiscent of a punctured pancreas. Men in Ireland now have the luxury of shopping with their girlfriends in Penny’s for their jeans together, thanks to these feminine rips. Need a scarf? We’ve seen you in your millions trailing after River Island’s stock trucks. But I’m not talking about the traditional scarf. No, you need to get yourself a mini-rug, twirl it around like a towel, before draping it over the entirety of your body. Preferably pink too, so it sends out the message: ‘’I am wearing a colour that is associated with women. Therefore I am ironic, as well as charming, witty and great. Have me now.’’ Nothing is sexier than a walking masculine pink carpet.
Before long, the walls of Ireland will echo the clattering of high heels around the streets, once these are brought in for men. Late-night drunken fisticuffs outside pubs and clubs will last an eternity, as men pause every ten seconds to gather their hair extensions from the pavement. At least we can still paint our nails with the colours of our favourite soccer team, so as to maintain some shreds of masculinity. Limerick’s Primrose Beauty’s beautician Valerie Hickey claims that laser waxing, sunbeds and spray tans have all been used on men in recent years. “Men do come in here asking for eyebrow waxing,” she claimed. “Of course, they are clearly embarrassed, and even pretend the sun-beds are for their eczema.” Thankfully, Ireland hasn’t become totally consumed by this flowery fad. Hoodies still line the streets, with an assortion of sports jerseys thrown into the mix and the obligatory dollops of hair gel half-smeared
Niamh Dillon talks to the Irish designer to the stars Her rise in the design world has been meteoric but it was Vikki’s innovative approach to promoting the brand which enabled her to have famous client’s queuing up to wear her designs. “I met with stylists in Beverly Hills,” she says. “I tried to go in at the top and get noticed. I wouldn’t take no for an answer. You have to make a bit of noise to get noticed.” For the moment Vikki says that her next aim is to get distributors in the US and UK and continue to expand the brand. “It’s very exciting and I’m very optimistic for the future”.
Michael Ramsay explores his feminine side
into people’s heads. But this is the way to be. We shouldn’t be taken in so much by our appearance – the harsh clutches of insecurity have already ensnared women. Let’s not allow it to envelope both sexes. So throw out the boots, grab some old-fashioned LYNX and for the love of God, delete that ‘Colin Farrell Hair Tips’ tab on your laptop.
REVIEW Addict
REVIEWS 17
Music
Scroobius Pip & B Dolan Venue: Dolan’s Warehouse, Limerick Date: March 12, 2012 Reviewer: Shane O’Riordan
A
s an eager crowd ambles through the doorway they are met by lowlit intimate surroundings, the smell of draught beer and the main performer of the night selling his own merchandise in the corner of the venue. Not long after the local supporting act finish, B Dolan takes to the stage, shocking the crowd with a hangman’s noose around his neck and torso. Right from the start his humour and antagonism of the crowd creates a love/hate relationship and more importantly, helps us connect with him. Even the failure of his iPod during the set did not seem to faze the crowd in their bonding with the Rhode Island Rapper. During the end of his set, a member of the audience volunteered to have a dance battle with Dolan. Dolan’s playful pushing of the con-
A
testant during his dance routine again made for comical viewing. After resounding applause and admiration B Dolan exits the stage and invites Scroobius Pip to take his place. Entering with a mic in one hand, a bottle of rosé in the other and his iconic baseball cap, Scroobius Pip commands the respect of the entire venue. A dark and undulating guitar riff kicks off his set, jumping straight into Introdiction the crowd goes wild and Dolan’s fills with the mumbled sounds of adolescents singing along in chorus to his provocative lyrics. He continually jumps from fast paced beats to slower and more relaxed melodies, keeping the crowd guessing and showcasing his versatility while all the time keeping with the dark yet energetic ambiance.
Bruce Springsteen
The Stranglers
Wrecking Ball
Giants
(Columbia) By: Tom Horan
(Absolute Records) By: Mike Gilmore
t sixty-two, The Boss would be forgiven for letting the young people worry about the economic crisis. But since nobody’s stood in to fill his blue-collar boots, Bruce is going to be the voice of a nation just a little bit longer, and the nation’s never been angrier. Wrecking Ball, his 17th album, proves he’s as relevant as ever, mixing classic Springsteen rock anthems with hiphop, gospel and Irish folk elements. The highlight is Death to my Hometown, an unrestrained hymn of anger aimed Wall Street’s moneygrubbing ways. It’s his most politicallycharged album yet, but accessible to fans both old and new.
A
fter a six-year hiatus, The Stranglers are back with the 17th studio album release of their 38 year career. The album Giants was released on March 5, 2012. However, the album’s ten tracks are a disappointing testament to one of the last living punk acts of the seventies. The vocals and riffs on the flagship track Time Was Once on My Side are a little monotonous and would make anyone want to change over in search of a better track, sadly with no hope of finding one. Unfortunately, a poor album all round.
Towards the end of the set B Dolan reemerges from the side of the stage proclaiming the line “keep calm and carry on, take arms and carry bombs” launching into Soldier Boy Kill ‘Em with Pip. Again the crowd joins in as the pair parody the once popular song Crank That by Soulja Boy. Finishing with Let ‘Em Come and entrancing the crowd in the process, Scroob leaves the stage and the crowd hungry for more.
The Ting Tings Sounds from Nowheresville
T
(Independent) By: Paul O Sullivan
he Ting Tings’ second album, Sounds From Nowheresville, is a strong follow-up to their highly successful debut, We Started Nothing. The new album, which is heavily coated in electronic pop influences, picks up where its predecessor left off, with a few positive additions. Very much anchored by strong rhythm, the duo surpass themselves on this record by incorporating more diverse influences, stronger vocals and as always, ridiculously enjoyable melodies. Tracks on the album which will please fans of their first work include Hang it Up and Give it Back, while tracks like In Your Life will please those looking for something new.
Movies
O
n 9 March 2012, a film like no other hit Irish screens across the country. The Raven, a fantastically dark and somewhat gruesome thriller, enraptured viewers’ full force. Centring around the last days of American literary genius Edgar Allan Poe, the movie takes places in Baltimore in the 1800s. Poe (Cusack) finds himself the inspiration for a cunning and sadistic serial killer, leaving a trail of corpses scattered throughout the city. When young detective Emmet Fields (Evans) realises that the first murder scene is hauntingly familiar to him, he enlists the help of Poe to track the killer.
As more victims appear, it becomes obvious to Poe that the murderer is trying to communicate directly with him. Each murder scene comprises an eerie re-enactment of one of Poe’s works, complete with a chilling clue carefully comprised by the illicit killer. Fields and Poe, realising the capabilities of such a monster, frantically begin to try and put an end to his rampage. When the killer strikes much too close for Poe to handle, the chase becomes a personally fuelled spree. Desperately succumbing to each and every tantalising clue, the detective and Poe accept that the only way to find the murderer is by participating in his sick game. As they get ever
THE WOMAN IN BLACK
PROJECT X
Nima Nourizadeh Thomas Mann, Oliver Cooper and Jonathan Daniel Brown Reviewer: Séamus Barrett
James Watkins Daniel Radcliffe, Janet McTeer and Ciarán Hinds Reviewer: Barry Murphy
I
children, the woman’s tragic backstory is uncovered by Kipps as he investigates her home. Despite some awkward early scenes, the film excels once the plot begins to come together. The disturbing tale of the woman is gripping, as is Arthur’s quest to bring her to peace. Radcliffe is far from perfect, but gives a good performance as the likeable Kipps. The film is dripping with atmosphere, largely thanks to the amazing array of sounds. Every creaky floor board or distressed cry will have the tension building as you await the next sighting of the ghostly apparition. While perhaps too clichéd for some, this is definitely worth a watch for most horror fans.
Director: Starring:
Director: Starring:
f old school horror is your thing – this is the film for you. The Woman in Black moves away from the modern trend of gritty reality and instead opts for more traditional scares that will please fans of classic horror, but perhaps alienate newer fans. Contrasting the likes of the Saw and Hostel franchises, The Woman In Black offers many tried and tested facets of horror films, in place of excessive gore or realism, and delivers a classic tale of ghosts and terror. Daniel Radcliffe takes the lead role as Arthur Kipps, a lawyer who discovers the eponymous woman in black, while working on a deceased client’s will. A chilling visage who targets the local
closer to finding their killer, the investigation starts to take its toll on all those involved. After a hair-raising encounter with the murderer, an injured Fields and crumbling Poe struggle on to put an end to the fiction-born reality. Finally piecing together the whereabouts of the killer, both Fields and Poe separately set off to put an end to him once and for all. Poe is first to confront the egotistical monster, making a decision that will change his life but save another’s. In a world where fiction terrifyingly becomes reality, The Raven will leave you sitting on the edge of your seat, begging for more.
I
hadn’t heard so much hype about a film of this type since the first Hangover film, and just like The Hangover, Project X was entertainment all the way. From the same producers as the Hangover, this film was 88 minutes of constant entertainment, even if the content wasn’t the most tasteful throughout. If you enjoyed Superbad and Old School, this is definitely the film for you. Think of the most reckless houseparty you’ve ever attended, multiply by 100 and you’re still not close to the party in Project X. Three teenagers organise a birthday party in an attempt to widen their circle of friends. What develops is utter carnage as matters go from bad to worse for the three friends. From being chased by a drug dealer for stealing a Santa gnome, a
Mercedes being driven into a swimming pool to a midget being thrown into an oven, the laughs and damage done are endless. The film might appeal more to a young male audience, as female nudity and typical male conversations about women are frequent throughout, but there’s still a lot to entertain a female audience. If you’re looking for an intellectual film with smart puns and a clever storyline, Project X isn’t for you. However, if you’re looking for a film that makes you laugh and is downright madness, this is a film you need to see.
SAFE HOUSE Director: Starring: Reviewer:
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Daniel Espinoza Denzel Washington, Ryan Reynolds and Robert Patrick Danielle Dunican
atthew Watson (Reynolds) is a young CIA agent assigned to a safe house in Cape Town, South Africa. When the house is attacked, he is forced to go on the run with his fugitive Tobin Frost (Washington). I have nothing but praise for the performances from the two leads. They work well as a duo, but ultimately I feel this film was let down by the script, and to a lesser extent, the directing. It was difficult at times to fully understand what was going on, with unconnected scenes jumping from one storyline to the next. However, there are times when the movie floats along nicely and you become engrossed in the story. The action scenes are top notch; you can tell the film makers put alot of effort into the choreography and originality of the sequences. The strenghts of this movie lie in its acting and the action scenes. It does its best to capture your attention from the start and has some great scenes with unexpected heart warming messages, but I think in time to come I will have difficulty remembering much of it.
CONTRABAND Director: Starring: Reviewer:
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This Means War Director: Starring: Reviewer:
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REVIEWS 19
McG Reese Witherspoon, Chris Pine and Tom Hardy Gerard Flynn
his Means War is a film that could have been saved with a better script and a director that wasn’t obsessed with drowning out all dialogue with deafening, clichéd music. Tuck (Hardy) and FDR (Pine) are two CIA operatives who fall for the same girl, Lauren (Witherspoon). When they find out that they are dating the same woman, each goes about sabotaging the other’s chances with her. The film includes a typical German villain (Til Schweiger) for the two agents to battle as well as a few action sequences to give the film a spy genre gloss on the typical love triangle plotline. All three leads put in good performances but ultimately can’t save the film from an overused premise and an emotionally vapid script. During the course of the film, Hardy’s character is shot in the privates with a paintball gun. After sitting through the film for a crippling ninety minutes, I began to envy the character’s quick and relatively painless form of torture.
Baltasar Kormákur Mark Wahlberg, Giovanni Ribisi and Kate Beckinsale Billy Goulding
s famous movie one-liners go, every retired smuggler, thief and assassin will have a soft spot for this one: “You’re never really out of the life until you pull off that one last job.” Contraband, set in New Orleans, provides an action-packed insight into the relentless and savage underground world of corruption, smuggling and exploitation. It’s a world littered with merciless criminals and corrupt officials, where the stakes are high and pay-outs even higher, where loyalty is a luxury afforded to none, and death is only a heartbeat away. Retired runner and smuggler-gone-straight Chris Farraday (Wahlberg) worked hard to sever all ties with his previous life of deceit, danger and drug-running, intent on leading a law-abiding life and protecting his young family. Such a feat is, however, rarely as easy as it sounds. When brother-in-law Andy (Caleb Landry Jones), blows a drug deal for ruthless drug lord Tim Briggs (Ribisi), Chris has no choice but to run one last heist in order to settle Andy’s debt before his wife Kate (Beckinsale) and two young boys end up dead.
Once dubbed the “the best of the best,” Chris returns to the game with a bang, and with the help of his lifelong friend Sebastian, (Ben Foster) assembles a crew to embark on one final mission to Panama in the hope of returning on a freighter with millions of dollars in counterfeit bills. But of course what good would a heist film be without a few hiccups along the way, eh? An action-junkie’s dream come true, this no-holdsbarred film relies heavily on its supersize everything approach; the super-tanker and vast amount of stacked containers provide the perfect location for mayhem. Add some daring cat-and-mouse chases, a multitude of explosions and dramatic shoot-outs, and the one vital ingredient of every heist film, a few double-crosses, and you have yourself a very credible production leaving you guessing and waiting in anticipation until the last scene.
One last job...
REVIEWS 20
THE LOCKE BAR & OYSTER HOUSE
Food & Culture
Address: 3 George’s Quay, Limerick Reviewer: Ronja Fredricksson
Other Drawings Exhibition Curator: Breda Lynch Gallery: Ormston House Reviewer: Frank Carlin
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he Locke Bar is a pub and a restaurant that is divided into two separate parts, in one room is the bar and in the other is the restaurant. The pub is typically Irish and has a relaxed atmosphere and the restaurant is rustic and cosy with stone walls and floors made of wood. It is situated right beside the Shannon River on the Georges Quay and the restaurant gives a nice impression from outside. Right away when we came into the Locke Bar a waitress met us and showed us to a table. The waitress was nice and professional. She gave us attention at the right time. If you come early to the Locke Bar you have the possibility to chose the early bird which means that you can get a starter and a main
Books
O course for €17 or you can chose to have one main course and a dessert for the same price. I decided to take a main course and a dessert. For the main course I chose a steak with potato gratin, shallots and red wine jus. It was a well cooked meal but the presentation was not good. For dessert I got pannacotta with wild berry glaze. It was amazing and the presentation was great. This is a good restaurant and it is nice that you can move into the pub in the other room when you are finished with your dinner.
Reviewed by Sophie McDermott
I’ve Got Your Number Sophie Kinsella
Cage of Bones Tania Carver (Sphere)
(The Dial Press)
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ania Carver’s Cage of Bones is the new bestseller from the terrific writing duo, Martin and Lynda Waites. Dr. Phil Brennan and his partner, psychologist Marina Esposito, must determine how a feral child ended up in an abandoned building. Their investigation leads them through a discovery of lies and cover-ups going back over thirty years. The twists in the story will leave you hanging on the edge of your seat, as the investigating officers must also confront their own personal problems. This book is highly recommended for the crime thriller fanatics, as, from the first chapter, you are led into the investigation. You will not sleep until you have read to the last line of the last chapter.
F
or those girls looking for a bit of romance and giggles in their lives, Sophie Kinsella’s I’ve Got Your Number comes highly recommended. From the start, this book is guaranteed to have you in stitches as you follow the journey of newly-engaged Poppy Wyatt, who tragically loses her engagement ring but gains a new phone. However, the phone belongs to a mysterious man who is unimpressed that it now rests in Poppy’s hands. Kinsella’s previous success with the Shopaholic series is no match for Poppy’s antics. You will be in tears of laughter or heartbreak as Kinsella introduces another relatable character who tugs at your heartstrings, no matter the situation.
rmston House has played host to many interesting visitors to Limerick, including an elephant at one point. The Other Drawings show curated by Breda Lynch is the gallery’s current guest, and it’s better than an elephant. The show includes work dealing with gender, transgression, sexuality, religion and otherness through the medium of drawing, whether they are the small beautiful almost cartoon drawings of Ins Kromminga, in which he looks at gender and genitals as the accessories of a successful life, or the large, imposing and slightly grisly drawings of Dr. Jenny Keane. She takes stills from classic horror films which are drawn onto paper and then transformed by the performative aspect of her work. She licks the paper, where in the picture blood is present, this symbolic reverse vampirism is compounded when the artist’s tongue begins to bleed and the paper disintegrates. George Bolster uses a geodesic dome to create a chapel for his work. His three pictures drawn onto wood seem to represent a trinity of sexualities, all encompassed within the whole of the dome. Kieran Moore’s work is heavily influenced by the 60s and 70s; the flamboyant stylings of glam rock and the gender-ambiguous dress of David Bowie. His small drawings present stylized scenes, one in particular depicts an androgynous individual with light streaming from its eyes, asking the viewer what is being illuminated? Lynch’s drawings are haunting portraits of a woman about to die. The two pieces are almost identical, symbolising the meeting of one’s doppelgängers before death.
Chocolate and bacon
Thick and meaty, the home made bacon crisped beautifully, even if it was a little salty.
We have filled ourselves to bursting to bring you a comparison of two brands; one luxury product, and its competitor from the other end of the market.
Lots of water and not so much flavour, reminiscent of a piece of wet cardboard.
Marco Polo Ristorante O’Connell Street, Limerick Reviewer: Frank Carlin
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handeliers come in many shapes and sizes, the ones at Marco Polo are glittery and lovely, if a little useless. They thoughtfully provide flattering lighting from above so you can see what you’re eating. The restaurant is beautiful, the toilets even have a little room just for urinals complete with sink and mirror. The staff are lovely and so is most of the food. My beautiful companion had the pork crostini, which arrived as little porky heaps toped with a little balsamic reduction. The bread was crunchy and made a beautiful contrast to the chopped meat. As different to my starter as could be, the veal was a mistake. The thin, dry slices of meat would have been better if they had come from a corner shop deli counter at 9:45 on a Sunday evening, they were dressed with rocket. The sauce was vile, it looked and tasted as if an Emperor penguin had regurgitated the food he had been saving in his stomach for his penguin baby’s dinner.
Animal Bars are great for kids both big and small, simple creamy chocolate.
Posh chocolates for posh people, good in small doses. Stick to the dark side.
O Connor’s Café Bar 9 Thomas Street, Limerick Reviewer: Ronja Fredricksson
I The mains were better, the Spicy Beef pizza was good and this was the only time I’ve ever been served a pizza without cheese and not felt gipped. The topping also included a small salad, and as the menu and the waiter pointed out did include nuts. The base was thin and lightly sauced, and all topped off with a bit olive oil. Another nod to the waiting staff when we finished our water and it was replaced almost magically, which in quite a large room is impressive waitering. My witty and glamorous companion had the Quattro Formaggi. The base was thin and crisp and the cheeses met the exacting standards of a Charleville native. There was also distinct variance in the four cheeses but alas no pile of salad. The pizzas are large, but we both managed to finish them without ill effect. Marco Polo is a fun place to go, especially if you have a group of about four as you’ll get one of their sumptuous and comfy looking booths.
REVIEWS 21
opened the door into O´Connors on Thomas Street and the restaurant was crowded. I said to my friends that maybe we had chosen the wrong day. The waitress came up to us and said that there will be a table free soon and placed us at a bar table with menus. As we were waiting for our table I started to look around. The walls are white with dark wood and down toned mirrors. Against the walls were couches, tables and chairs and everything was dark wood. It is a warm family atmosphere and you can see that people are enjoying their time and food. After only five minutes the waitress showed us to our table. The waitress was nice and she showed her personality by talking to us in a casual and relaxed manner. The serving was also laid back and it did not feel like we were in a restaurant, it was more like at home and someone just put the plates on the table. They were fast with the food and it tasted delicious. We ate homemade burgers, honey-roasted Limerick ham and paninis. The food was not expensive, around €10, and you did not walk out hungry.
NEW MEDIA
NEW MEDIA 22
Is Facebook ruining your relationship? Sophie McDermott
I
pic: creative commons
magine relationships in the days be-
a wall post or a harmless comment un-
homewrecker’s profile is given the full
suspicion in relationships and therefore,
fore the internet seeped into every
derneath a status, it’s very easy to read
creep-on and your relationship status
causes more drama and arguments than
aspect of our lives. It was trouble-free
if you actually caught your partner in bed
and dare I say it, happy! There was no
with someone else. We’re all too heavily
panic attacks because some blonde
reliant on Facebook to guide us through
wrote on your partners wall, there was no
everyday life and to tell us what’s going on
suspicious poking (in virtual life anyway!).
when we’re not looking. Most of the time,
People’s lives and relationships were
you can be rest assured that it’s an inno-
closed books. Even BEBO never confused
cent comment or photo so don’t let Face-
reality and virtual reality as much as Face-
book ruin what you have. If you think your
book does. Now, your news feed is inun-
partners a cheater, read their text mes-
dated with couples rowing or going from
sages, most cheaters tend to be smart
‘In a relationship to single’ or ‘single to
and cheat away from all your friends and
in a relationship’ It’s gotten to the stage
family members news feed. And remem-
where I know everything about my Facebook friends’ turbulent love lives, even though I haven’t seen them since school. My main problem with Facebook is that it is a powerful medium of communication that has the ability to ruin relationships in a split second. Whether it’s a photo tag or
into and come up with the conclusion,
swiftly changed. You don’t need to ask
that yes, your partner is playing away from
your man or bird what’s going on. Face-
home.
book told you.
Even though, this may not be the case,
So does Facebook ruin relationships
it’s the only conclusion we all jump to.
and leave you forever alone? Most prob-
Once this conclusion is reached, the
ably. Facebook is the source of a lot of the
ber, just because it’s on Facebook does not mean it’s true!
CA
Responsible journalism in the age of social networking Siofra Mannion pics: creative commons
S
ince the internet
it takes so much time for them
as the Irish Times for read-
the price of newspapers and
became avail-
to reach us? With newspapers
ers to make comments but
because it’s just plain easy
able worldwide,
it’s not as easy as opening
almost none of those readers
to open Internet explorer and
it has boomed
a browser tab in your living
will use their name and so if
enter your favourite news
and completely
room, you have to travel out-
they make any remark that
website into the browser. So
taken over. Newspapers radio
side your home to purchase
may be found offensive there
it might not be long now ‘til
and television are even com-
the paper and then it’s not
is no way to stop them unless
newspapers, the radio and
peting with the internet for the
even free.
the website takes down the
television become obsolete.
public’s attention but in the
One of the biggest fears as-
comment.
last five to ten years the battle
sociated with new media is the
has become greater.
threat of citizen journalism.
not trust the new media ways
Should members of the public
and that will go on listening
more inviting to the public
be allowed to publish their
to the radio and buying their
with its up-to-the-second news
analysis and views of serious
daily paper at the nearest
and views while old media is
information in the same way
shop but new media is recruit-
looking more outdated by the
as professional journalists?
ing more people every day
New Media is becoming
day. But how can we expect newspapers to keep up when
There is now room under online articles on websites such
There are people that still do
because of economic reasons such as the sharp increase in
CA
Vs.
Addict
NEW MEDIA 23
BLAH... BLAH...
BLAH... BLOG GERARD FLYNN
I
hate blogs because to me they signal everything that is wrong with the Internet and the impressionable, stupid people that it brings together. From my extensive reading of blogs, I’ve come to the conclusion that they are a tool that people use to inform the world of their existence, like a job, a car or a family. Blogs seem to be the last stop (or in some cases, the first) for people who are so arrogant and deluded that they think they should be a celebrity or a preacher without having any discernible talent or body of work to prove so. We seem
to have entered an age where intelligent language (most often misused in the context) covers up a lack of original or thought provoking ideas. In fact, some blogs I’ve seen are venues for boring people to practice their failed stand up career and at the very least, to work on their paltry Frankie Boyle impressions. These blogs use crudity and harsh language to veil the fact that the topic of discussion is boring, juvenile and most likely, ill-informed. Unfortunately blogs are also created by the “Go-Getter” amateur journalist types. These are the people who think that
they will work at the New York Times some day and will be the first ones to tell you about their new blog entry while issuing the same level of misguided enthusiasm as if they had announced that they were making a twenty million dollar feature film. A trip to their blog is one where you need to traverse their opinionated views on everything from Fabrice Muamba to 18th century romanticism. Their interests appear to cover every topic just so they can put themselves in the shop window for future employers. For these people, blogs are their personal CVs and they enjoy do-
ing it because it involves their favourite pastime answering the questions that nobody asked them. Most people miss the point when it comes to blogs however. They are supposed to be something so personal and insightful that they represent who you are but this can be lost in inane posts about how an old man touched your hand on the bus today and how it was “pure embarrassing.” Surely to blog, you must get down to the very essence of what you are, display it for public viewing and let the world be the judge. If you’re going to give something, at the very least give it all
and make it interesting. By blogging, you are putting yourself out there for public ridicule but if I have offended you, I’m sorry. We all need a place to vent our frustrations and interests and in a way, I’m doing that in this piece. All I ask is that the next time you sit down at your computer to glean your brain of its, no doubt, fascinating contents, show a bit of originality in your blogging by pondering life’s important questions and by not using a blog to further your career or document your banal existence.
CA
NEW MEDIA 24
aCta - Noble or nuisance?
Tom Horan investigates
W
e ’ r e always quicker to qu e s t i o n what’s taken from us than what’s given to us, it’s human nature. The unrivalled freedom offered to us by the internet in recent years heralded a media revolution, though at the expense of nearly every other medium. Absolute freedom is bound to be taken advantage of by some bad apples, hence the increasing effort to regulate how we conduct ourselves online. As of the end of February, the framework for what’s been dubbed “Irish SOPA” was submitted for consideration. This is the first change to Irish copyright law proposed since the Anti-Counterfeiting Trade Agreement (ACTA) entered public consciousness, and the first sign that legal action may be taken against the average Joe-Illegal-Downloader. ACTA is backed by the majority of the western world, including the EU, and was established to combat copyright across borders, primarily internet piracy and the production of generic medicines. Now that downloading a band’s entire discography in a single click has become second nature, convincing the public to go back to paying for our entertainment will be difficult, if not impossible. Niall Byrne, aka Nialler9, prolific music blogger, and regular contribu-
tor to the Irish Independent, finds the reasoning behind these new laws disturbing. “Any trade agreement negotiated in private should be treated with caution and any treaty that may threaten the open use of the internet by using piracy and copyright as a motive for censorship is dangerous. More important is the possibility that it may put the power in the hands of large corporations to stop generic drugs and patented seeds being used worldwide” The new laws are part of an amendment to the Copyright Act 2000, and includes a law that would, if passed: “gives courts the power to grant
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A b s o l u t e freedom is bound to be taken advantage of by some bad apples
injunctions against ISPs in illegal download cases.” This means that the internet service providers can now be held responsible for what their customers download. To avoid being brought to court, all internet providers would have to introduce something akin to the ‘three strikes you’re out’ policy Eircom implemented. Until now, internet providers have been able to get away with shrugging their shoulders and turning a blind eye to what their customers did, but increasing pressure
from organisations with a stake in preventing privacy, such as IMRO, are putting an end to this. The Irish Music Rights Organisation, or IMRO, pressured Eircom into the three strike rule, as well as blocking all access to file-sharing website Pirate Bay. This goes to show any advancement in anti-piracy law won’t come from the legal minds, but business interests. It’s the content providers who have the most to gain from tighter copyright laws, citing the massive decline in album sales over the past decade as reason to chase down those who are downloading their content for free. No matter what actions they take, the public will feel embittered against them for stifling the freedom they apparently can’t be trusted with. For years now, people have been able to get away with downloading what they want, when they want, and so have done just that. According to Nialler9; “It’s too easy to download everything illegally these days but if you value the work of artists, musicians or any other creative person then you’ll recognise that they should be compensated for making their work available to us. So I try to do that where possible be it by downloading through reputable sources like eMusic, Bandcamp etc. or buying a vinyl copy of an album I’m fond of”. The freedom the internet enables is its greatest
strength and weakness, and the very reason some organisations seek to limit and control that freedom in the name of common decency. The internet in its current state is a veritable Wild West; a place with no law or order, where the strong prevail and the weak get no views on their blogs. It has given way types of media that had no place before, media with no financial interests, media for the people, by the people. The music label’s only real option is to provide a music service so convenient and user-friendly, that it’s worth paying for over unregulated, unpredictable illegal downloads. No matter how many rules a r e
introduced, no matter what the threats are, there will be somewhere on the internet where we can get the same service for free, so the labels will have learn that if you, can’t beat them, join them. Nialler9 agrees that some regulation is need, though not at the cost of creativity. “The music industry for example, has got to stop using copyright laws to stifle the creativity that could create a boom in their products. The territory system doesn’t work
anymore; piracy doesn’t recognise borders and copyright should reflect this more”. To put it simply; the internet has broken the idea that intellectual property has value, and for content providers to earn that value back, the public will need more than a stern talking to.
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App
NEW MEDIA 25
Reviews By Amber Galwey
H
ealth Apps are increasing in popularity due to their easy accessi-
There are many benefits regarding Health apps. The majority of health
bility, noticeable results and their informative content, according
apps are free. Other apps are cheap, ranging from 79 cent up to
to users worldwide. Experts define health apps as programmes that
around €3.99. Progress accounts, diet calendars, calories consumed
offer health related services through smartphones or tablet PC’s.
and exercises performed along with the amount of weight that a user
These health apps are accessible to users both at home and on-
has lost, can all be stored in the apps. Which are all very beneficial to
the-go. They provide comprehensive accounts of progress for users.
users as they can clearly track and monitor their progress on the apps
There are many varieties of health apps available for purchase. Health and see their own results first hand. apps are designed to help consumers make healthier choices in their
The following five free apps are regarded as some of the best and
everyday life by offering advice about fitness or nutritional health.
most popularly used apps to kick start your life into a healthier one.
WebMD
MyFitnessPal Calorie Counter The calorie counter allows users to
WebMD offers a wide variety of
input exactly what they eat along
knowledge regarding medical
with the exercises they perform.
information. It contains a Symp-
This will provide the user with a
tom Checker, which allows users
warning of how many calories
to obtain a quick diagnosis of any
they will be consuming. Due to its
illnesses that they may be suffer-
comprehensive account of calorie
ing from. You can personalise it by
intake, this app has been titled
adding information regarding drug
the best mobile calorie counter at
intake, conditions from which you
present.
suffer and other information that you wish to include.
Nike Training Club
Unislim
Blood Pressure Expert Lite
This is a workout programme espe-
The Unislim app is designed to help
This is an important app for people
cially designed for women. The aim
control and maintain a healthy diet.
who suffer with high blood pres-
of this app is to appear like a de-
This app contains a ‘Shape Up’ sec-
sure. Designed to help people
sign fitness programmes as a per-
tion. This section allows users to
manage and maintain their condi-
sonal trainer would. It tailors and
follow a sample menu for all meals.
tion. Research shows that if people
fits workouts to each user’s needs
This app also contains a photo
suffering from this condition were
based on specific information
booth, which allows users to take
better managing their blood pres-
added to the app. It teaches users
pictures of themselves to convey or
sure, five thousand strokes could
how to perform new exercises cor-
view their dieting success. The un-
be avoided each year in Ireland
rectly, preventing any injuries.
islim app is available for Androids.
alone.
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NEW MEDIA 26
FEEL THE BEAT?
With complex guitar
SHANE O’RIORDAN TESTS DRE BEATS As the recent recipient of a present of the famed Beats by Dre Solo’s, I was ecstatic to say the least. The allure of the jet black frame with silver outline and red finishing’s spoke out to me. Slamming the door of my house with excitement...
sounding that bit more seem to the the Beats,
as much as you can ask o
f
research was in order and I found that both ... frantically tearing
through
Sennheiser
Skullcandy
had
and similar
alternatives for a frac-
blow
for. The deciding factor for headphone choice should not be based on style or aesthetics but by the music you listen too. The beats
ing them for Rap music, Dubstep
and
where
anything
a
HD205 II’s than the Solos. What it all boils down to though, is that Beats are a status symbol and icons of fashion. Hypocritically,
Beats:
copious
I must admit that I
4/5
amount
too used to sneer at
Sennheiser:
of
bass
is
required.
3.5/5
passers-by who had Beats
slung
around
their neck, people who
Unfortunately
the
weren’t
same music is just simply not
pristine and crisp on the
competition
out of the water when us-
but for €30 that’s
b i t
riffs
enjoyable
on
the
Sennheiser headset as
to
even
music
displaying
listening
just
simply
their
head-
the packaging I finally
tion of the price.
donned these renowned
Now, by no means
beacons of sound qual-
am I an audiophile,
ity, icons of fashion and
but I found that
emblems of status, only
the Sennheiser
embrace their sneers and
to find myself completely
HD205
envious
underwhelmed.
II’s were
they just don’t know how
m o r e
good these headphones
their right mind pay €180
than up to
truly are. Sure you can get
euro for these?
the task of
similar alternatives, and by
Why would anyone in
The sound quality is
rivalling
muffled.
ness. And now that the shoe is on the other foot I
looks
because
Conversely
right you should, but what
while
the HD205 II’s often
I and every other owner of
Solos,
with a very comfortable
the far cheap-
headset which provides
er
for
sound
Uprock’s leaked a large
leakage but surely there is
little
sluggish and
wealth and pretentious-
the
beautifully crisp coupled
very
the bass seems
phones as a badge of
Skullcandy
Solos
these marvels have finally
when listening
come to realise is that
trump
the
rock
anything else just is not
amount of sound and did
mu-
the same.
something on the market
not provide quite as
sic.
that can offer the same? A
much substance as
to
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NEW MEDIA 27
ony 2012
“Has the fire of blind ambition been quenched by a dose of reality?” Shane O’ Riordan
The recent Kony controversy has been a rude awakening for all of us as to how powerful social media truly is. In one day the video was daubed all over social networking websites such as Facebook and Twitter. Within hours Kony 2012 had become a viral monster. Dozens of the highest profile celebrities used the hash tag #StopKony to sign off their tweets in a bid to show their support for the noble cause and get behind this admirable campaign, demonstrating how the video had affected each and every one of us. On release the video brought tears to the eyes of millions, but in the following days those tears were quickly wiped from their Western faces and replaced with anger, disgust and dejection as the evidence began to pile up debunking many of the claims made by Invisible Children, the organisation behind the film. Although the video may have a benevolent premise, the
lies that are imbedded within it have made most of its audience reject its aim and question what Invisible Children’s true agenda is. There are major criticisms surrounding the video and Invisible Children. The video played on people’s heartstrings to influence
The ‘Action Packs’ which are being sold by Invisible Children for $30 seems excessive as the main contents of the pack are two flimsy bracelets promoting the campaign, which are of no real benefit to helping children or toppling an African warlord. There are plenty of rea-
factor in deciding to deploy the said troops to the region. Many believe this is a bid to acquire as many resources as possible so that the U.S. can continue to compete with China, shadowing their own selfinterests with faux philanthropy. The saga took another
“There are plenty of reasons to believe that Obama has ulterior motives for deploying 100 U.S. troops to Uganda.” people into donating to the charity. But when looking into the overheads of the organisation it seemed that only a small percentage of each donation received goes to aid for Ugandan children while a large portion of it is used to pay staff’s wages and film making supplies. According to Invisible Children.com the fiscal year of 2011 saw the ‘non-profit’ organisation receive almost nine million dollars in donations and funding. Yet only 37.14 percent of expenses went toward ‘Central Africa Programs’.
sons to believe that Obama has ulterior motives for deploying 100 U.S. troops to Uganda. Firstly, the U.S. should not have any authority in any other country, and cannot act as the world police. Secondly, the deployment of these troops in an election year could be interpreted as a ploy for Obama to get the vote of America’s youth. Thirdly, and most cynically I might add, reports as early as 2006 document the discovery of Ugandan oil. The discovery of oil in Uganda in could well have been a large influencing
twist when the Ugandan Prime Minister Amama Mbabazi hit back at the Kony 2012 campaign via YouTube saying it provided an unfair and false depiction of Uganda. Although Mbabazi celebrates the uniting of ‘so many young people’ against the atrocities that occurred under the rule of the Lord’s Resistance Army (LRA) he solemnly states that the video was factually incorrect; ‘but the Kony 2012 campaign fails to make one point clear. Joseph Kony is not in Uganda’. Worried as
to the damage the ‘slick video’ may have caused to Uganda’s image, Mbabazi invited the celebrities targeted by the Kony 2012 campaign via Twitter to visit Uganda and see the ‘Pearl of Africa’ for themselves. Not even one month has passed since the release of the video and an enormous volume of acerbic, yet justified criticism, has covered the Kony 2012 campaign. The main focus will now shift to April 20th, when Kony 2012 aficionados will blanket their locality with awareness posters to support the ‘Cover the Night’ event and to make Kony famous. But the big question we are left with is will anyone even care by then? Has the fire of blind ambition been quenched by a dose of reality?
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OPINIO
OPINION 28
PROSTITUTION AND THE LAW Sex is still a taboo in Irish society, where does the law stand? Written by Lisa Blake
O
ver a quarter of a million Euro avoids the exchequer and passes through the hands of prostitutes and pimps each year,” so Paul Connolly, TV3 Investigator and all-things-illegal exposé tells me. A p rostitute client tells us if he wasn’t availing of sexual services he doesn’t know what he’d do to another woman. A vice girl tells us if she has to “do another client” either he’ll be going out in a body bag or she will. Currently, it is not illegal to buy or sell sex but it is an offence to solicit sex on the street. You would applaud the Government for tackling Ireland’s ugly problem of prostitution, especially when the echoes of 1930’s Catholicism are still rippling through Ireland even today, forcing the topic of sex into a taboo category. The scene in Pretty Woman where Julia Roberts, the happy hooker, is walking down Hollywood Boulevard in her sky-high leather boots and barely there cut-out spanx material dress is a scene the people of major cities in Ireland would be familiar with when night falls. I kid you not; the
differences that surface are merely within the weather, skin tone and accent. Our world and the dirty world of prostitution exist side by side. A Prime Time special showed similar images of pimps and prostitutes moving around at all hours of the night from town to town nationwide. Their “business” was operated from a very lucrative website where pursuers of the women could “book” them. The airing of the investigation brought the subject into the public domain, sparked debates on radio programmes and social networks. Both programmes proved that the Irish are the greatest bunch to stick the kettle on and have a good aul chin wag. Don’t get me wrong, I think the fact that people are now discussing the issue instead of ignoring it is a great thing and shows maturity in the Irish, but watching a TV programme and debating over the content afterwards is about as much good as Kitty watching a robber steal a car and turning to Bridie and saying “God, wasn’t that awful.” Action needs to be taken. The Oireachtas looks at legislating in the same
way an adolescent looks at doing their homework. They simply don’t want to do it. Enda Kenny said the Minister for Justice is going to be introducing the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences Act) to the Dáil later this year. This is as likely as a magic fairy coming along and wiping away Ireland’s debts. The one action I have seen so far in relation to the Government making a move on criminalising the sex trade properly is a visit by Gardaí and members of the D epartment of Justice to Stockholm. There they observed the consequences of legislation brought in there against the purchasing of sexual services. With criminalising sexual services comes a whole array of issues such as sex trafficking, illegal use of the Internet, immigrant laws and other branches that are going to be complicated to address under one umbrella law. However the longer it takes for this to become illegal, the longer Ireland’s underground sex world is going to fester away.
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Currently, it is not illegal to buy or sell sex but it is an offence to solicit sex on the street
ATED SMELLS LIKE. . .TEEN SPIRIT?
OPINION 29
Where does religion fit in the lives of young people in Ireland? Written by Pic Karen O’ Connor Desmond Eric Johansson
O
ne can quite safely say that many young Irish adults today classify themselves as Catholics. However, what that means to them is actually nothing more than a conventional label. While a strong sense of devotion to the traditional Irish way of life is still ingrained into the majority of the country, its meaning is lost. People will proudly proclaim their Catholic ways, parade their children up and down the church for communions and confirmations and make an appearance every Christmas and Easter at mass, wearing their finest of finery. Between dressing the kids “appropriately” for church and making sure the whole congregation is aware of your presence bi-annually, where on earth does the Lord get a look in? I think it is this definition of ‘Catholicism’ that is becoming more and more the norm amongst the young Irish of today. Gone are the days when going to light a candle and say a prayer actually meant more than asking God to please make you ace that upcoming maths exam. Attending mass on
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...when it comes to religious tradition, the Irish can be an awfully stubborn bunch.
a Sunday to explore the hidden meanings and messages of the bible has been replaced by showing up your neighbours and having an hour to look at eye-candy. This is not what religion is nor should it ever be. Religion is a means by which to venture further into a spiritual world, discovering beliefs that have never felt more right to you and finding something that although majorly complex to some, is as natural as daylight to you. The continuing tradition in Ireland to only raise a family in the Catholic faith has left us hopelessly focussed on what is socially acceptable and completely closed off to where our hearts and minds truly lie. We are no longer finding happiness through a faith which speaks to us; we are conforming to outdated traditions. A select few of us are
beginning to realise that although we may have been raised Catholic and have the official papers to prove it, it means nothing to us. Unfortunately, a lot of young people continue down the ‘Catholic’ road that they have always been on, simply because it’s all they know. It has nothing to do with spiritual connections and beliefs and everything to do with carrying on the ‘tradition’. And then you have those who accept that they do not share their family’s religious beliefs and claim to believe in nothing. While atheism may be the undying truth in some cases, it is often just an excuse to rule out other more unconventional options. A lot of Irish are afraid to venture past the unknown and look deeper into themselves. However, it is a fact that slowly more and more Irish are taking that leap of faith and exploring other options. H opefully stigma surrounding those enticed down the more untraditional paths will come to end soon but it has to be said that when it comes to religious tradition, the Irish can be an awfully stubborn bunch.
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A select few of us are beginning to realise that although we may have been raised Catholic and have the official papers to prove it, it means nothing to us
OPINION 30
I WAS NEVER GOING TO GET FACEBOOK It’s almost impossible to live without Facebook in the modern world Written by Emma Grummas
I
“
was never going to get Facebook. Never ever,” I snorted sarcastically as I pressed the delete button when the e-mails saying what’sher-face-wants-you-to-join started dropping in a few years ago. I just never got the point. Telling everyone, in detail, what you are doing all the time? I am in the bathroom. I just got off work. I’ve been to the gym for two hours! Who bloody cares? Not to mention these wildly exaggerated declarations of love, followed by a gazillion hearts screaming look at us, aren’t we happy?! Who exactly are you trying to convince? I am single. I’m in a relationship. It is complicated. Whatever happened to privacy? I have spent a number of preparties snorting and sighing, rolling my eyes sitting in a corner, slurping my drink. “We have to put this on Facebook!” Deep sigh. “Oh, take our picture would you? Let’s post it straight away!” Sluuurp slurp. “You have got to see what he put on his wall last night!” Eyes rolling.
I was never going to get Facebook. I guess within me there had always been this little voice stubbornly saying I shouldn’t be like everybody else, even on occasions when it would actually b enefit me. When I started at University it became very clear I wasn’t like everybody else. I was the only one in my class who did not have Facebook. “I can’t remember your name, but I think of you as the girl who’s not on Facebook.” Was it really that uncommon? A year went by. A year of constant reminders of how weird I was and yet this did not bother me. In fact, I became even more convinced I was the one who would stand against all the Facebook madness. Besides my wish to go against the current, I was actually afraid of the enormous publicity that Facebook represented. That people would be able to publish pictures of me that I would never share myself, or worse, lose control over. I value my privacy and have control issues, two things which I felt did not go with Facebook. And then we had the other, secret reason. My
addictive personality. I knew I would be instantly hooked for the latest gossip and was told by friends this was a real, time consuming hazard of Facebook. A third reason was that I was enormously annoyed with the adjustment to Facebook that was and is happening everywhere. To be able to get certain information, take part in contests or simply make your voice heard, you have to have a Facebook account. This is a reality that is getting more and more common with both large companies and media organizations and as a non-Facebook user you get completely excluded. Meanwhile, the pressure was on. I was tempted by the possibility to keep in touch with friends and family far away and I read in several job ads that a knowledge of and ability to work towards social media was of vital importance. So now Facebook should decide whether I get a job or not? With all safety settings set as high as possible, I became a member last August to equal cheers and sneers. And yes, alright stop nagging; I do admit I enjoy it. I appreciate being able to follow my
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cousin who is working in Afghanistan and friends who live far away. But to be honest, more than anything I see it as an inevitable part of the industry I wish to work in. However, after only a couple of days I discovered the dark underbelly of Facebook, which no one had told me about. The drug that makes it hard to quit and keeps you coming back for more. Our need for validation. Eleven comments on my status! And eight likes on the photo I posted yesterday! Yes yeeees! See what happens when you go against your p rinciples.
No, I was never going to get Facebook. But I am definitely never getting crocs. CA
What’s the craic?
Q AND A 31
Barry Murphy grabs a quick coffee with Tony Sheridan of TV3’s Come Dine With Me
CRAIC ADDICT: First of all, we should clarify that there are certain things you can’t talk about because your episode hasn’t aired yet…
Tony Sheridan: There are no real issues – but details of what happened on the show shouldn’t be discussed. But what I think is more interesting anyway is the process a contestant goes through. Because it’s quite unique compared to what you see on the telly. CA: Are there consent forms to sign and such? T: Yeah, you sign a waiver that says whatever you say on camera – they can use. So if you said something in an interview, and the next day regretted it and said “well I’d like you not to use that,” – you’ve no right to do that. And when you consider the dinner parties are fuelled with alcohol, and you’ve been videoed and recorded saying something – they’re allowed use any footage they’ve got. CA: What does the audition process entail? T: Firstly you send them an application, which asks you things like “how would your friends describe you?”
“What would you cook?” “What type of p eople don’t you like?” So they’re trying to get a picture of you, and find what might cause conflict. I said I liked going out and drinking, and we ended up with two people who didn’t drink. That was strategic. In the application they asked “how do you deal with criticism?” and I said “people never have any need to criticise m e , b e c a u s e I’m never wrong.” It’s a little bit tongue in cheek. I was s e t t i n g myself up to be the villain of the piece. They also had to screen test you to make sure you didn’t freeze up when you were on camera. That lasted about 45 m i n u t e s . They edit it down and send it to TV3, and ask “which
“
of these people would work best t ogether?” CA: You mentioned earlier that they can use whatever footage they want: were you nervous about doing the show, given the reputation of reality shows, and how
they can be edited?
T: Well I work in a university, and I teach students. I have a very public persona. Initially when I was applying I was thinking “what happens if I make a show of myself?” But I spoke to my head of department and he said “so what?” It’s not me in a professional capacity; it’s
Their main objective is not for you to come across as funny or nice. Their main objective is to make the show interesting.
meal, I was asked some questions up to four times. Very similar questions, until I answered it a certain way. You have the right to not answer. They want to portray that they’re your friend, when they’re not really. Their main objective is not for you to come across as funny or nice. Their main objective is to make the show interesting. CA: Well that’s all our questions, thanks for much for your time! T: No bother! • Come Dine With Me returns to Irish screens soon on TV3
me in a personal capacity. That put me at ease. CA: Any words of advice for p e o p l e i nterested in getting on the show? T: Yeah – be careful. They will manipulate you, if you let them. In the interviews after the
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