JUICE September 2014 - Blue Hawaii | Issue #192 by JUICE

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ISSUE #192

A NEW CHAPTER

the changing gears issue

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EDITORIAL editor jazmin kelly six [jazmin@juice.com.sg] senior fashion writer/stylist liyana meer [liyana@juice.com.sg] music writer kevin ho [kevin@juice.com.sg]

HI THRILL-SEEKERS, Ain’t no doubt we’re revvin’ into the month of September already. Just where did the first three quarters of the year go? But as you know, is always forward-looking and we can’t help but feel the excitement of the upcoming months. Yes, it’s gonna be non-stop action from here on out so you better jump in for the ride.

editorial intern ling tay contributors burton tang, chris ong ujine, den ng, don shiau, hidzir junaini, li weng fung, mich makeover, teck lim. ART DIRECTION designer jackson kang [jackson@juice.com.sg]

The F1 season is just around the corner and you should know what that means: high-octane asphalt action, kick-*ss stage performances, buzzing fringe activities and awesome-possum after-parties. Make sure you bookmark page 16 for more deets.

ADVERTISING & MARKETING account manager lavonne lam [lavonne@juice.com.sg] DID 6325 8031 M 9747 2806

Elsewhere in the issue, we also look at the hottest beauty trends this season, 10 upgrades the scene needs, a look into how famous fashion big-wigs became, err, famous, and more. It’s all systems go, alright! You snooze, you lose.

PUBLISHER & DIRECTOR david see [david@lumina-looque.com] DIRECTOR calvin cheng [calvin@lumina-looque.com]

START

REGIONAL CONTACTS

On Your Mark,

MALAYSIA editor alif omar mahfix [alif.mahfix@revasia.com] INDONESIA editor agiani salima [agiani.salima@mediasatu.com]

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SEPTEMBER 2014 12

SOUND SHIFTERS

THE GUIDE TO F1 FEVER

Evolving musicians who roll with the changing tides.

Music, magic and more acts to get your heart racing.

VIBE BEACH SPORTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

POPS OF THE TOP

BLUE HAWAII

CONTENTS

Breaking up is never the end. Take a page from the books of these Montreal natives; they buried their romantic drama, and channelled their negative emotions into electronica energies – drifting somewhere between shadowy witch-house and bobbing glitch. Image courtesy of George Fok © 2014

The new party night for indie kids and retired hipsters.

Gear up for this all-rounded sun and sand shindig.

CHAPTER ONE

What the now-famous fashion big-wigs did before hittin’ the big time.

COOL INTENTIONS

FINISHING LINE

10 THINGS FOR A BETTER TOMORROW

Raw denim, hardy separates and a touch of chrome define the new season.

10 FALL BEAUTY TRENDS WE LOVE Primp and prep for the new season.

Get crafty with the latest crop of eyeliners.

Don’t say we’re nit-picking; there’s always room for improvement.

SINGAPORE

august 2014 free every month

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ISSUE #191

VROOM VROOM…

Dear ! I really want to be at the heart of all the racing action at the Formula 1 Grand Prix this year. Do you know how I can score some tickets to watch the race, listen to some good music and even hustle a pretty grid babe or two? Lonely Boy

INBOX

Well, we can’t all have the best of both worlds, but you can prob score yourself an artsy chick at KEEPER’s Designer Singapore Collective that weekend!

VERTICAL LIMIT

Hey , How did you know I’m so into chunky platforms at the mo’? Do you guys have a magic crystal ball or something? I swear by these elevated sandals; I have seven pairs at last count! Nat

LION CITY RAP•RESENT! the majulah issue

august cover 8.indd 68

7/22/14 7:47 PM

“Already told you I’m the truth the rest of y’all false, my eyes small they three times the size of ya b*lls” Spit yo’ rhymes at inbox@juice.com.sg

MAIL of the

To be honest, it’s actually a second-hand magic eight ball, but keep it to yourself now – that’s trade secret.

month COVER BOY

COLOR CODED

Hey , I totes love your ‘Red Alert’ story on scarlet-hued beauty products! I wear red anything (even my undergarments) every chance I get because it makes me feel so powerful. You guys should do an all-red issue sometime soon. Whaddya say? Sophie

YO !! I MUST SAY YOU SERVED UP THE BEST LOCAL ISSUE EVER! MY HOMIE SHIGGA SHAY LOOKS BAD*SS ON THE COVER AND IT’S REALLY NICE TO SEE A HOMEBOY REPPIN’. CAN I BE HONEST? I’M A LOCAL MUSICIAN AND I WAS WONDERING IF I COULD ONE DAY GRACE YOUR COVER TOO? I ASSURE YOU MY FEATURES ARE STRIKING. JIGGA JAY

WHOA…HOLD UP JIGGA! WE’D LOVE TO TAKE A PEEK AT THE MASTERPIECE OF A FACE, BUT QUALITY TRUMPS ALL. SAY IT WITH YOUR MUSIC AND WE MIGHT CONSIDER YOUR REQUEST. FOR NOW THOUGH, PLUG IN WITH THESE BABIES FROM JABRA AND LEARN FROM THE MASTERS.

We hear you, but electric pink’s still more our thang. We’re sure your innerwear drawer could use a change. ;)

MAKE SOME NOISE

Hi , I’ve always been looking for a place to practice my music without having neighbours telling me to shut it all the time, so thank you for including a studio guide where I can jam to my heart’s content. Mat Rock

When you finally make it, don’t forget to slide an album under our doors.

THIS MONTH’S MAIL OF THE MONTH WINS A SET OF THE ROX WIRELESS EARBUDS WORTH $168, COURTESY OF JABRA.

SINGAPORE

SERVIN’ UP THE FRESHEST CONTENT

OUR EXCLUSIVE WEB HIGHLIGHTS THIS MONTH! REPORT: BIFFY CLYRO

WE GET BIBLICAL WITH AN ALT-ROCK ONSLAUGHT FROM THESE ENDURING SCOTS.

JAZZED UP FOR THE TRACKS

IN CONJUNCTION WITH F1, WE LOOK AT THIS SEASON’S BEST RACE-INSPIRED ENSEMBLES.

CHAT: GEORGE FITZGERALD

MORE THAN JUST A MAN MAKING MUSIC, THIS MAGNETIC HOUSE DJ TALKS ABOUT HIS PRODUCTION PREFERENCES, AND MORE.

SHU UEMURA X KARL LAGERFELD

SNEAK PEEK BEHIND ONE OF FALL’S MOST ANTICIPATED BEAUTY COLLECTIONS.

REPORT: GENTLE BONES

LOCAL SINGER-SONGWRITER LAUNCHES HIS EP WITH CHART-TOPPING SINGLES, “UNTIL WE DIE” AND “SAVE ME”.

SPACE FLOWER BY NAOKO TOSA

A CLOSER LOOK AT TOSA’S ART, WHICH INVESTIGATES THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN LIFE’S PAST, PRESENT AND FUTURE.

CHAT: NADIA ALI

WE CATCH UP WITH THE PAKISTANI-AMERICAN EDM VOCALIST, PRIOR TO HER ANTICIPATED SHOWCASE AT THE PODIUM LOUNGE.

FOREVER FASTER

HOW PUMA CHALLENGES RULE BREAKERS, AND IGNITES TRENDSETTERS TO PUSH FURTHER IN THEIR SPORT.

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MUSIC SLEIGHT OF HAND How does this producer see through that foxy mask of technicolour, you ask? Nope, that’s not the magic. The illusions are instead conjured within Slow Magic’s chill-wave constructions, pulling tricks outta the hat like “Hold Still”, a lulling progression that see-saws with synth-y climaxes; and “Girls”, a chirpier trip of chopped vocal samples and sunny guitars that venture into dream-poppy Tycho territory. Combining computer wizardry with live drumming on-stage, this prodigious enigma has also remixed the likes of Gold Panda and Delorean, and is even dropping more hocus pocus this month with a new album up his sleeves.

slowmagicmusic.com

Text Kevin Ho Image Downtown Records

STRONGER IN TWO B L U E H AW A I I

BREAKING UP IS NEVER THE END. TAKE A PAGE FROM THE BOOKS OF THESE MONTREAL NATIVES; THEY BURIED THEIR ROMANTIC DRAMA, AND CHANNELLED NEGATIVE EMOTIONS INTO ELECTRONICA ENERGIES – DRIFTING SOMEWHERE BETWEEN SHADOWY WITCH-HOUSE AND BOBBING GLITCH. THEY’VE SINCE OPENED A NEW CHAPTER TOGETHER, AND IT’S A STORY THAT WE ASKED PRODUCER, ALEX COWAN, TO HELP UNFOLD.

Indeed, this isn’t a seaside fairytale of frolicking against the waves and scribbling heart murals in the sand; Blue Hawaii foretells the story of a romance gone sour. Most telling of this tragic predicament was the latest release of their Untogether LP – glossed with a cover art that exhibited the ghostly embrace of Raphaelle Standell-Preston and Alex Cowan, and a songwriting process that literally, had them working apart. “Yes, we worked on it separately,” clarified Cowan, “Me on the beats, and Ra on the mic, for the most part”. It was curious how Cowan would still attach endearing nicknames to his partner (though, not quite), despite having gone through the harsh transition of a lovers’ fall-out. We asked if it was awkward, or if it was simply a case of remaining artistically cordial…

TECHNOLOGICALLY SOUND Ra may be busy with her external art-pop endeavours, but we imagine that’d hardly diminish the budding potential of Cowan’s production chops. Tethering the vocals that flutter delicately in all directions, Cowan keeps it grounded with tight electronics, often applying pillow-y beats and snappy synths, while enhancing the shapeless crooning with looped sampling and tasteful pitch shifts. What he possesses is an unconditional love for new-age composing, and it’s not something he’d abandon for anything else. “I’m interested in the way technology is inseparable from my creative process,” Cowan affirmed, “If I couldn’t produce with Ableton or other software, I think my main occupation would be something else”. We couldn’t help but pick his brain further. “I don’t know…I really like drawing and writing. I’d probably do animation”.

DOWN WITH THE BEATS It’s not that hard to fathom really; in fact, this duo gave it away with micro-house teasers like and “Reaction II” and “In Two II” – prompting a “I love that song too!” remark from Cowan. We asked if this development into dance was something momentary or a fixture for the future, and Cowan guaranteed that it was here to stay for now. But if you still gotta see it to believe it, just check out Blue Hawaii’s past repertoire of DJ sets, including appearances on The Fader, Rinse FM, and even Boiler Room. Watching them strut their stuff on the decks, you don’t just see a different dance-y side of the two, but also their unbreakable chemistries perceived from the gazes and sign language they share with each other. These aren’t just two ex-lovers making emotional music, they’re bringing out the fun again. NO ROOM FOR BAD ENDINGS “You know, Blue Hawaii is actually a pretty great movie if you haven’t seen it,” Cowan casually commented, “Elvis seems high; he’s a little spacey and even issues a spanking in it”. Not that their name had anything to do with classic Hollywood or Elvis, nor anything particularly controversial like spanking. Blue Hawaii surfaced from a fateful union of friends-turned-lovers-turned-something in between, and it’s evolved into a relationship that’s steeled beyond something more ordinary and valuable than the glamorised concept of love. Besides, hugs and kisses are overrated. Blue Hawaii is saving all their TLC for the music.

soundcloud.com/bluehawaii Blue Hawaii plays on September 14 at Life Is Beautiful Kitchen & Bar.

Text Kevin Ho Image Marilis Cardinal Interview courtesy of Other Sounds

COVER

“BEST FRIENDS, MUSIC MATES” With that reassurance, we gathered that Blue Hawaii wasn’t gonna just fizz up into thin air for the foreseeable future. And why would they, much so with an enchantingly versatile voice like Standell-Preston’s? You could toss in the Grimes and Gang Gang Dance references, but ardent listeners of Braids would already know the drill. Wispy falsettos, fiery shrieks, and a lower register as soothing as a mother’s lullaby – all components of a well-controlled voice that’s no less diluted by her frontwoman duties in Braids. We did wonder if commitments were distributed fairly between the two projects. “That’s a good question actually,” pondered Cowan, “We’ve been trying to have both exist concurrently. But the conflict does happen sometimes. Right now, Ra is more on a Braids bend, but next year I think we’ll have some more time”.

BLOOM TO GLOOM Perhaps it was something reflected from their moments of being a couple, but their debut 2010 EP, Blooming Summer, first showcased a jovial dip into shimmering synth-pop; not quite the Disneyesque appeal of CHVRCHES, but still something that was melodiously upbeat with tracks like “Deam Electrixra” and “Blue Gowns”. It was only when they became ‘untogether’ three years later, when they sank into a murkier form of electronica – brooding with elements of witch-house, glitch and alt-folk. Blue Hawaii’s tricks are of course, never truly predictable. “We don’t play anything from the album live, all the songs are reinterpreted,” Cowan previewed, “We take short loops of the songs and add new drums, and switch between those loops when we need a chord change or something. The result is a much simpler, more cohesive and danceable live tune”. Don’t be surprised. We never said these guys won’t make you dance.

SOUND SHIFTERS Musicians change, and that’s okay. The Killers aren’t new-wave no more, Tiësto’s bid farewell to trance, and Radiohead’s still acceptably weird. And just like these other acts, we salute their courage to change gears.

FEATURE

SKREAM

DAVID GUETTA

While everyone’s making fun of this electro-house champ for tripping out at Tomorrowland, let’s bear in mind that Guetta wasn’t always the pop-pleasing chart-topper who rubbed shoulders with Flo Rida and RiRi. There was a time when this French producer wasn’t making instant fist-pumpers in bulk, but classic and funky house tracks that would easily win approval from any Chicagoembracing purist today. Listen to 2002’s Just A Little More Love; tell us we’re wrong!

ARCTIC MONKEYS

In the same vein as his Magnetic Man brother, Benga, this dubstep chieftain has taken his career into his own hands and distanced himself away from the genre he made famous. Gone were the oscillating wubs and shrill synths, and in its place came Skream’s unforeseen foray into nu-disco. Fascinated by the eclectic sets of Jackmaster, this pioneer himself eventually augmented his own Skreamizm shows further with house and techno drops.

We don’t just give Kieran Hebden love cries for his intricacies in IDM, but how he’s evolved his sound in the subtlest of manners. Before conditioning his craft to reflect more electronic archetypes with beats imported from micro-house and jungle, Hebden’s preceding orchestrations revealed a more organic foundation, implementing more ‘live’sounding instrumentation to create amalgamations of jazz, trip-hop, and folktronica. Slip back into “Slow Jam” from ’03, and you’ll even catch some postrock-like guitarwork!

FOUR TET These once floppy-fringed mardy bums exploded onto the scene so effervescently in ’06, that one would’ve expected them to burn out from their hysterical indie-rock initiation. Mellowed and matured did they become indeed – kudos to the tutelage of Queens Of The Stone Age’s Josh Homme – yet it wasn’t a transition that dampened their rise to the top, but instead transformed them into rock & roll Gods with garage-y gritty riffs and gospel-glossed harmonies.

GREEN VELVET

DEV HYNES CHAZ BUNDICK

When it was reported that this British prodigy lost everything in a domestic fire, we felt his pain pierce sharp like a knife, as it brought us back to his multi-farious array of monikers and musings. While everyone recognises him today as the neo-soul mastermind behind Blood Orange, we still remember tapping our fingers to his dance-punk days with Test Icicles, and subsequently, his chamber-pop poetries under Lightspeed Champion. Back-up everything, Hynes!

Life’s often too short to be a master of two trades, but that posed no threat to Curtis Jones. He’s shown that he can walk around like he’s bigger than Prince with his Mohawk-sporting techno profile, Green Velvet, snapping snares with rave-ready anthems. Yet it’s a feat that’s just as accomplished as his house persona, Cajmere, which too cemented his career with warm, deeper beats and melodic overtones. Plenty to learn from this multi-tasking veteran!

CARIBOU There’re many Sides Of Chaz alright, and we’re not just referring to his psych-rock pet project. Bobbing with the organic vigour of animated guitar hooks and acoustic strums, it’s a refreshing contrast to Bundick’s more introverted identity, Toro Y Moi, which sounds more like an illusory dream concocted from the realms of chill-wave. And dipping one notch deeper into his production infatuations, Bundick even drifts between house and disco with yet another dance project, Les Sins.

CLOCKWORK

Many big-room beatsmiths rely on spotless sweeping crescendos, four-to-the-floor beats and pristine vocals to invoke that spiritual surge of euphoria, and L.A.’s Clockwork is no different. Which is why critics and fans alike went cuckoo when they found out that Clockwork’s counter-alias was one RL Grime, who instead commanded sets using garbled samples and drier, slower beats that constituted his disparate trap inclinations. One clean, one grimey; both ticking within that noggin of his.

You’d think that Dan Snaith would apply his varying musical curiosities to his alternative aliases (he also goes by Manitoba and Daphni), but even within Caribou itself, you’ll find a switch that’s absolutely bewildering. Who would’ve predicted this career-swinging metamorphosis from psych-folk dabbler to deep house producer? Having kept his preferences for dreamy falsetto-ed vocals, it’s a change-over that’s ferried his grooves from the forest to the floor.

THE HORRORS

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

Some of us happen to love Halloween more than others, and during this band’s goth-rock phase, they churned out macabre, sinister punk symphonies that would’ve made The Addams Family snap their fingers in delight. But since their Primary Colours sophomore, they started creeping into psychedelic territory with angelic synths and vocals that skimmed on the screaming. Their latest Luminous record even has tinges of techno in it – tricking without the treating.

THE GUIDE TO

F1 FEVER

F1 FANATICS WILL ALWAYS FIND ENTERTAINMENT BEYOND THE PODIUMS AND CHECKERED FLAGS, AND THIS YEAR SEEMS SET TO STAY ON-TRACK. MUSIC, MAGIC AND MORE ACTS TO GET YOUR HEART RACING, WE’VE ROUNDED UP THE HIGHLIGHTS JUST FOR YOU.

ZIGGY MARLEY

JOHN LEGEND

We’re just ordinary people, but that doesn’t mean we can’t get no vocal lovin’ from this soul singer-songwriter at the Village Stage. Having become quite the legend himself with nine Grammy wins, trail-blazing hits and an emotively spiritual voice that’ll take you to church, this eloquent storyteller has also collaborated with significant figures like MSTRKRFT, Magnetic Man and Kanye West. Number one once again with the recent release of his poignant tear-jerker “All Of Me”, we’ll be a monkey’s uncle if we catch one dry eye in the audience.

JENNIFER LOPEZ

We’ve seen Jenny come round the block and go down on the floor with her Pitbull papi, and now we can all catch this American Idol judge exude her Latina radiance come Race Day.

It’s always daunting to match up to the immortalised success of your pops, especially if he’s one reggae icon, Bob Marley. Tasked with carrying on the legacy as the oldest son of the Marley family tree, the Melody Makers frontman will be making his debut appearance in Singapore with two consecutive performances. Expect this reggae protege to showcase tracks from his latest Grammy-winning album, Fly Rasta, along with timelessly meaningful anthems like “True To Myself”, “Tomorrow People” and “Love Is My Religion”.

ROBBIE WILLIAMS

Besides ushering in the millennium in a tuxedo and paving the way for boyband-hood in his Take That heyday, this better man will have you belting along to hits like “Rock DJ”, “Supreme” and “Angels”.

PET SHOP BOYS

These electronica performance artistes have been always on our minds since their extravagant concert here last year, so you bet this is a comeback that will have us going west for. We enjoyably documented their lustrous 30-year career in our Essentials feature in April, so you may now take a gander for yourself at how their sound’s assumed the amorphous forms of synth-pop, disco, downtempo and techno. Heck, these tireless trendsetters are already in their 60s, and they can still throw a dance-y jamboree of cosmic proportions. Pop art at its finest.

MAYDAY

More commonly known by the Mando-pop universe as Wu Yue Tian, this Taiwanese alt-rock quintet has been likened to Taiwan’s own Coldplay, considering the stadium-filling potential of their works.

SEASICK STEVE

Steady ye’ peg-legs scallywags, this captain of blues rocks out more than your granddaddy at 73. Often going solo with a three-string guitar, you’ll catch sliding licks and fuzzy chords that bite with Black Keys bravado.

REUBEN STONE

We gathered from Weish’s performance last year that F1 fans dig live looping. And this Adelaide busker aspires to be no different with quirky one-man arrangements of dub and psychedelia.

LURA

FUNGKIMUNKEES

INDIGO

VANDETTA

You guessed it – when you’re aboard this local soul train, darn right they’ll take you down to funkytown. Aside from channelling their inner Chic, this technically tight collective also dabbles in soul and Latin.

A local supergroup comprising jazz vocalist Dawn Ho, guitarist Munir Alsagoff, percussionist Mohamed Noor, and Cosa Nostra saxophonist Kevin Guoh (Kaye), they come together to concoct a blend of Brazilian samba and chilled-out electronica.

Coming from the exotic island country of Cape Verde, west of Africa, Portuguese songbird Lura makes music fit for any fiesta, fusing folk, r&b and Afrobeat with a sensual tropical twist.

This Syndicate vixen barely needs an introduction. Vanessa Fernandez amazes us everytime with her a capella experiments of neo-soul, r&b and trip-hop, and we don’t expect her to ever disappoint.

ANDREW MAYNE

COSENTINO

LADY IN THE MOON

TORQUE

CUERPOS PINTADOS

ILANA YAHAV

Don’t trust Andrew Mayne. Seriously, we’ve seen this illusionist teleport personal belongings and instantly melt paper money into coins. And that’s just the tamest of his “shock magic” tactics. Oh, and he can even make you levitate.

You won’t have to wait for Cirque Du Soleil clowns to turn that frown upside down. Mixing cabaret themes with a soiree of illusions, acrobatics and dance moves, Torque will have you topsy-turvy in awe and wonder.

Bless the soul of Harry Houdini. This daredevil escapologist however, pays no mind to the fear of death, toying with playthings like straitjackets and razor-toothed jaws, with some chains and daggers on the side. Eeps.

Using the silhouette of human bodies as his canvas of choice, Chilean artist Matteo Arfanotti is a champion body painter who accentuates shapes and skins with vivid, mystical designs, pandering to our Pan’s Labyrinth fantasies.

A piece of Chinese folklore fascinatingly conveyed by performance artistes from Germany, Israel, Italy, Poland and Spain, watch the fabled origins of mooncakes (yum) unfold with colossal puppets, aerial dancers, and music rung from glass goblets.

Unlike our destructive tendencies to kick down sandcastles for fun, this Israeli sand-painter has a better grip on these fine grains, telling playful but powerful stories with precision and creativity.

FEATURE

FRINGE FRISKERS

REVVING REVELRIES bondax

JOHNNIE WALKER CIRCUIT LOUNGE

Why settle for one party hotspot when you can have two? The superior Whiskey brand strides across two of the scene’s spiciest clubs with DJs Spenda C at The Butter Factory and Sophia Lim at Altimate. That’s two back-to-back shindigs that flow as smooth as Scotch. circuitloungesg.com

ZOUK

No like

No place throws parties this 23-year-old establishment, and it’s affirming its globally endorsed cred on F1 weekend with two hairraising acts, zapping from different ends of the EDM spectrum. Bubbling duo Bondax will be churning out smooth flavours with their disco-delving house tunes, while trance mogul (and ZoukOut ’13 headliner) Dash Berlin will have you feeling like you’d just crossed the finish line yourself.

kenny larkin

FEATURE

TRANCE SPECTACULARS, DRUM & & BASS MERRIMENTS, POOL PARTIES AND VIP BRUNCHES – YOU WON’T WANNA COME IN LAST TO THESE F1 AFTER-PARTIES!

dj spinbad

KU DÉ TA

Here’s one with a bird’s eye view of the tracks – 57 stories above ground. Spinning faster than you can say, “vertigo”, DJ Shortee Blitz (UK) drops the best of hip-hop, and turntablist extraordinaire DJ Spinbad (US) takes everyone to school with his mad scratching skills. Ku Dé Ta’s All Star DJs Ya5th, Suren, Deepak and Styluxtakut sum up the soiree with style. kudeta.com

LOOF

KYŌ

Scurry downstairs from the bustle on the surface with these bangers from the basement. British house label Defected Records takes over the decks with esteemed ambassadors, Simon Dunmore and Sonny Fodera. Techno treats come double-dosed with Detroit veteran Kenny Larkin and Stockholm duo Skudge. And get a load of Detroit house with the Telephone Man himself, Terrence Parker. clubkyo.com

nadia ali

PODIUM LOUNGE

You might not clinch the chance to spray champagne off the podium, but you’ll be running victory laps on the floor nonetheless with this annual affair for party elites. Premium soundtrack’s to be provided by Pangaea resident Patrick Oliver (US), Boujis music director Miles Slater (UK), long-time house producer Ian Carey, and from what we gathered through the grapevine, Grammy-nominated vocalist, Nadia Ali. podiumlounge.com

Don’t freak out if you come across a giant flapping rooster at Gate 3 of the Circuit Park. Apparently his name is Loofster, and if you snag a rattan fan from him, you score yourself some complimentary satay at Loof’s rooftop party, featuring slick tunage from resident DJs Tyler Made and KFC. Yes Loof, we see what you did there. loof.com.sg

POOLSIDE PITSTOP

If all that burning rubber and asphalt’s too much sizzling action for you, then scuttle up to Pan Pacific Hotel’s rooftop pool for a wet and wild cool-down. Massive Collective (Dream, Fenix Room) invites you to bust out the champagne and swimsuits amidst a bevy of international and local acts, including DJs Freshade, Sabrina and Rave Republic. massiveint.com

AMBER LOUNGE

Having rubbed shoulders with international icons like Bono and Kylie Minogue, this glamorous joint’s a haven for those with moolah to spare. This “original F1 lifestyle event” pumps out a five-star soundtrack that’s fit for royalty, and we hear there’s even gonna be an exclusive fashion show featuring the F1 drivers themselves! amber-lounge.com

CANVAS SINGAPORE

210mph speeds of F1 cars and 180bpm tempos of drum & bass; couldn’t you ask for a more perfect union? Satisfy your racing fix at the newly opened Canvas Singapore, with a d&b/jungle lineup of seminal proportions – showcasing Brazilian beatmeister DJ Marky and Exit Records honcho DBridge, with the seasoned Stamina MC on vocal hype duties. canvasvenue.sg

dj marky

BACCHANALIA

Even party addicts like yourselves need some grub in your tums. But at Bacchanalia, you won’t have to miss a single beat. Stuff yourself silly at Singapore’s biggest daytime party on F1 weekend, and instantly work off that food with open-format mixes from Stephen Day (UK), Modium (AU), and NY headliner Mel DeBarge, who’s spun for the likes of JLo and Heidi Klum. bacchanalia.asia

The 2014 Formula 1 Singapore Airlines Singapore Grand Prix happens from September 19 to September 21 at various venues around the Marina Bay Street Circuit. For more information and ticket availability, visit singaporegp.sg. rave republic

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

9 LOVABLE QUIRKS OF MISS NINE

CHAT

She’s conquered the decks of Zouk a couple of times, has managed to juggle between monthly mixes and heaps of charity work for under-privileged kids, and has stopped hearts of many prone to her supermodel looks and big-room beats. And that’s not even the half of it! Blush and swoon to the splendour that is Miss Nine.

She treats Zouk like home. Zouk is super supportive, and is always filled with good vibes and amazing energy. I remember they let me play longer then I should’ve last time! Every time the beat dropped, people went insane. It feels special to play for you guys and to be a part of the Zouk family every year.

She refuses to let her model background get in the way of her dreams. I always knew I had to do my best. I practised a lot, often mixing five to six hours a day. It was challenging for me to not get judged by my looks. But through the years, I have proven my skills and earned respect in the industry; the hard work paid off.

She even gave up her original goal of becoming a professional athlete. When I was little, I wanted to be a professional athlete. But after I finished school, I went into nursing. It wasn’t my first choice, but “definitely something I’d have a future in”, said my mum. I did it, but wasn’t happy. In that time, I discovered the fashion industry and eventually, rolled into the music industry. She works religiously on her monthly Nine Sessions episodes. Every week, I receive many promos from different labels and I go through all of them. I don’t want to miss that particular gem of a track. I pick out the ones I like and create a mix to take the listener on a journey through good music – starting with some deeper stuff, and ending with highly energetic and melodic tunes. She’s got irresistible urges of wanderlust. There are so many nice places in this world that I like a lot – Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, New York, Sydney, Los Angeles, Miami, Oberweissbach, Bali… I grew up in central Germany in the Thuringian forest, so I love the sun and nature.

She’s a charitable soul who believes in girl power for all. I’m a girl in a male-dominated world, and there are not many women who produce, DJ, manage artistes or run a booking agency. That’s why I was immediately convinced by the work of Plan International – an independent, children’s development organisation. Girls in developing countries don’t get enough food and don’t have the same rights as boys do in these countries. I am committed to this issue, and have visited Bolivia, Mozambique and Haiti to meet the girls that I sponsor.

She wants kids to have the happy childhood she had. I had a great childhood. My family didn’t have much, but enough to make my brother and I happy. We skied in winter and cycled in summer. When the Berlin wall came down in 1990, we were all very happy because a new world opened for us. We could buy tropical fruit we had never seen before, like mandarins, kiwis, bananas in the supermarket, and even chocolate! Nowadays, it’s hard to imagine how it was before.

She’s got motherly instincts of her own. I love children, they are our future. I definitely want to have kids at one point in my life, but for now, my focus is on DJ-ing, travelling the world, and discovering new cities. I have two nieces who keep this auntie up all day when they’re around. And we Skype a lot! In fact, I just took some time off to be with them and my family in Germany.

She’s always chock-full of wisdom. The most important thing is that you are 100 per cent yourself. Never copy anyone. You are unique and that is what makes you special.

miss-nine.com

Text Kevin Ho Image and Interview courtesy of Zouk Management

ENGLAND CHINA

global CITY soundscapes CITY LISTENS JAMIE XX This soft-spoken producer isn’t just critically credited as the driving force behind The xx, he might’ve just immortalised his legacy in British dance culture with his “All Under One Roof Raving” concept track, kicking up a viral rave of its own depicting the story of the genre’s evolution through micro-house progressions.

JESSIE WARE Move over Jessie J, this r&b siren gets first dibs on our devotion! She helped stimulate a resurgence in the alt-r&b field with her debut album featuring UK peer Julio Bashmore, and prior singles with London mates Sampha and SBTRKT. And with another record dropping next month, you bet critics will be keeping a watchful eye.

ROUTE 94

HEINEKEN DIGS DEEP INTO THE BOROUGHS AND METROPOLISES OF THE WORLD, INTRODUCING THE NATIVE SOUNDS OF THEIR STREETS AND SCENES. EXPAND YOUR PLAYLIST, ONE CITY AT A TIME.

LONDON HITS FROM THE BRITS

You could be a jolly tourist and assuage your London love at Big Ben and Trafalgar Square, and perhaps even take a selfie with The Queen at Buckingham Palace (or not). But if you’re a true blue music connoisseur, you know those aren’t the hippest places to visit. While Liverpool gave birth to The Beatles and Manchester, the validation of the famous Factory Records, London was, and still is, a musical Mecca in itself. Besides cultivating numerous historical phenomena like The Clash-wrought punk wave and the Suede-fashioned proliferation of Brit-pop, renowned clubs were established here too like the iconic Roxy. And you’ll still find plenty of music-fostering joints in this city, with distinguished gig venues like Wembley Arena and Brixton Academy, and bustling party havens including Fabric, The End, and Ministry Of Sound. Just point yourself in the direction of the tunage and you’ll be as hearty as a Beefeater.

It ain’t an American freeway, though the famously named stretch between Chicago and Detroit does reflect this DJ’s passions for house and techno respectively. Channelling such influences in his floor-crunchers at the young age of 20, we can’t believe this talent once preferred to remain anonymous. Well now ya know – born and bred in the UK.

DISCOVER THE WORLD IN SINGAPORE WITH HEINEKEN! Singapore, an urban metropolis and hodgepodge of cultures, is full of exciting experiences just waiting to be discovered. We would like to challenge you to escape the ordinary and unlock new and hidden spots in your city via www.heineken.com/openyourcity. Join us in the adventure and share with us your latest urban adventures in Singapore by including the hashtags #heinekensg and #opensg!

MOVIE No list of British musicians would be complete without the acknowledgement of the Brit-pop movement! Reminiscent of ’90s janglers like Blur and Pulp, MOVIE follows tradition with playful basslines, psychedelic guitars and sprightly vocal melodies. And not to mention, vocalist Theo Spark’s packing a rich Briton accent that even Her Majesty would approve.

HEINEKEN SPOTLIGHTS

Need inspiration? Check out the hidden gems shared by the local taste-maker, Tracy Phillips, in the next section and while you are at it, don’t forget to discover the six different Heineken City edition bottles bearing the names of six renowned cities - New York, London, Amsterdam, Rio de Janeiro, Shanghai and Singapore!

The Heineken City Edition bottles will be available at selected clubs, bars and restaurants, as well as all leading supermarkets.

OPEN YOUR CITY OPEN YOUR WORLD Where will your city adventure take you? We headed out with local tastemaker Tracy Phillips as she revealed her pick of the coolest spots waiting to be discovered. Open your city and share your hidden finds too with #openSG and #heinekenSG

7:00PM, ANN SIANG HILL Starting the night off right at an underground bar. Hidden in a great cosy little basement space, OPERATION DAGGER is every bit as experimental and unconventional as it looks!

8:15PM, TIONG BAHRU Time to tuck into delectable Japanese grilled specialties at BINCHO. A traditional Singaporean kopitiam by day, this joint is transformed into a modern yakitori bar when the sun sets – a truly unique blend of tastes.

10:30PM, ROBERTSON QUAY Stepping into the newly launched SUPER LOCO, I’m transported to the street food bars of Mexico. Colourful ambience, tasty tacos and ice-cold Heineken beer – what’s not to like? Perfect for getting the party started.

11:30PM, CECIL STREET The last stop of the night at a dance club tucked away in the basement of a CBD skyscraper. With its sleek minimal design and quality music tastes, KYÓ is one of my favourite destinations to party!

FIND WHERE’S HOT RIGHT NOW AT WWW.HEINEKEN.COM/OPENYOURCITY

AN ITALIAN’S PRIDE CHAT

BOTTIN

We’d be proud too, and nope that’s not just our passion for pasta talking. This Venetian producer flies his colours high, naming his albums after old Roman inside jokes and embracing the phenomenon of Italo-disco using vintage Italian synthesisers. We uncover just how far Bottin’s patriotism stretches, and we must say it’s a devotion that’s simply bravissimo.

Your new album’s titled Punica Fides…that’s Italian? It’s an old Roman expression. It’s sort of a joke on Punic people who were known not to be trustworthy, hence the sarcastic saying: you’re as trustworthy as a Punic. The whole album is about the concept of deception yet being cheated upon knowingly, accepting the seduction of treachery, but in a music context. In dance music, you always have this criterion of being authentic and fresh. But the truth is, all dance music is inspired by itself constantly, so nothing is really new. In that sense, it’s sorta cheating. Are you a deceptive person yourself though? Nah. With music, I like to fool around a lil’ bit. But with people I couldn’t be, even if I tried. I’m a really bad liar. You’re happily based in Venice; but it’s a fairly quiet scene isn’t it? Oh that’s an understatement; there are no clubs whatsoever. You have pop-up parties for the Biennale and such, but there’re no actual clubs in the city anymore. They were shut down ’cos of noise problems years ago. Bummer. So why not move? The thing is you either go to the club, or you’re in the studio making music. And I’m doing enough clubbing already from the shows I play. I don’t feel the lack of it in where I live. Besides, I don’t need to be in the club to be inspired, quite the contrary. I’d rather isolate myself from what’s current and come up with something worth releasing. And that ‘something’ for you turned out to be Italo eh? Actually it’s an influence I found long before Italo, back to when I was a kid. Every kid in Italy grew up on Japanese cartoons (the good stuff with robots and ninjas), and those soundtracks had a lot of synthesisers. Besides, a lot of those theme songs were actually done by Italian artistes and the sound they were making at the time was disco. I wanted to bring that world into the contemporary club.

Text Kevin Ho Image and Interview courtesy of Kyo

So it shares more similarities with nu-disco? No, I think it’s almost completely different. Italo was mass-produced in Italy at the time ’cos records were not so easily available. But most of it wasn’t good; it was cheap music that local DJs wouldn’t touch. While Italo was never big in Italy, it was taken upon by Northern Europe, where nu-disco pioneers imported that synthesiser romanticism and blurred it with a chill form of house. I never considered myself a nu-disco producer, though I know I fall within that category. To me, nu-disco is just a sub-genre of house music. That’s an interesting perspective! The funny thing is, if you ask most people in Italy what Italo is, they won’t even know. ’Cos the name itself was given by Germans! Is the gear you use Italian too? I have about 15 or 20 synthesisers but I’ve been downsizing [laughs]. I love them all, but I change them for something different once I’ve explored all possibilities. One synthesiser that’s never gonna leave my studio, however, is the Farfisa Syntorchestra – a cheap and old Italian synthesiser from ’79 which is nothing too powerful, but has a very distinctive character. It’s helped me a lot in crafting my own sound. Finally, why do Italians do it better? With music, people expect Italians to be musical people, but music education in Italy is actually very bad, close to none. So most Italian musicians are self-taught, and improvise quickly when there’re problems. I guess Italians can handle pressure better. I’m not easily scared.

bottin.it

OPEN YOUR CITY OPEN YOUR WORLD

RASTA RIGHTEOUS CONKARAH

CHAT

What’s reggae music to you? Reggae music is feel-good music about good vibes, love and unity.

So red, gold and green might not be our country’s colours, but that didn’t stop the Rasta-reppin’ boys behind Dub Skank’in Hifi Soundsystem from throwing their Bass Rebels bash on our nation’s b’day. And they sure one-upped their cred by inviting this dreadlocked singer-songwriter from Kingston, Jamaica, who heartily entertained our questions on the evolution of reggae, island girls, and nifty native lingo.

We assume it’s a presence that everyone eats, sleeps, and breathes back home? Reggae music is definitely respected by Jamaicans both in Jamaica and the diaspora. But with so many forms of music out there, many Jamaicans gravitate to a lot of foreign genres like hip-hop, rock, and r&b. Is that the case for the Jamaican music scene too? The Jamaican music scene has many different cliques, for lack of a better word. However, when you run into fellow artistes on tour, there is a sense of family. Even if you don’t communicate regularly in Jamaica, you connect on tour. It’s no secret that reggae has evolved through the decades with emergences of dancehall and moombahton. Do you see these developments taking place in Jamaica itself where it all began? For the most part, I think most of these fusions or genres start from outside of Jamaica, where you have producers from different genres who are willing to experiment and try something new. These songs become popular outside of Jamaica first, and then gain popularity in Jamaica via airplay on radio, nightclubs, TV stations, etc. We read that your interest in music sprouted from singing in the school choir? [Laughs] Well, I’ve always loved music but was convinced I couldn’t sing. One day after class, I heard heavenly sounds resonating through the hallways and I stumbled upon the choir. I went up to the conductor and introduced myself and immediately he said, “You have a very deep voice”, and after a short try-out, I was in! I couldn’t read music but I just knew what my voice needed to do and from there, I knew I wouldn’t be happy doing anything else.

“Island Girl” is one of your top singles. What is your kinda island girl? It is any kind of girl anywhere in the world who is down-to-earth, has a positive attitude towards life, is kind, caring and has that light shining bright inside of them making everyone in their presence want to smile. Man, I can go on and on! You recently released your To The World EP which features a global line-up of producers; from Hawaii to Poland, Indonesia to India. What was your inspiration behind this concept? I don’t think many people realise how powerful reggae music is and how much it means not only to Jamaicans, but millions of people worldwide. It has been a dream of mine to pull a project like this off, and all with very cool producers, who love reggae music and what it represents. It’s truly a positive vibration. How did you even go about getting in touch with all these producers? Social media; as much as we love to hate Facebook it really has its benefits. I linked up with every producer through Facebook and email. We also happened to find some reggae renditions of Avicii and Bastille songs on your SoundCloud page? Yeah, when I listen to a song then turn it off, I’ll take out my guitar and see if it would fit in a reggae style. I want to introduce more people to reggae music and I think that maybe taking a popular song and doing a reggae cover helps a few more music lovers discover and become acquainted with reggae music. For the sake of us who’ve yet to visit the Jamaican scene in person, what are three key words we need to know to fit in? “Wah gwan?”, or “what’s up”. “Yuh zimi?” for “you get me?”. And “Everyting cris”, or “everything is cool”.

facebook.com/conkarah Text Kevin Ho Image Lorraine Murray Interview courtesy of Dub Skank’in Hifi Soundsystem

10 REASONS WHY WE’LL MISS

ANBERLIN

Most fading bands face their demise with creative spats or fists a-flailing, but not this cherished alt-rock outfit. They’re throwing in the towel with heads held high after 12 devoted years, after gracing us one last time with a stopover off their final world tour. Bassist Deon Rexroat reminds us once again why this revelation has us soaked in sniffles and tears.

1) The band will be pulling out all the stops on this final world tour, with classic anthems that fans have embraced for years. Unless there is a crazy outcry for new material, I think playing the old songs that people have loved for years will be what’s in store for fans. We want to pay homage to those songs that brought us here. 2) They list their previous performance here as one of the milestones of their career. Milestones? Definitely touring the world, Singapore especially! Others include releasing our first album, and finding out that Robert Smith (The Cure) apparently loved our cover of “Lovesong”. 3) Evidently, they missed us as much as we will them. Yes, the Baybeats Festival! I remember it being so hot that we looked like we had jumped into the water beyond the stage. We were soaking wet after the performance, but it was one of our most amazing shows to date. 4) They’re mature musicians. I think it got to the point where multiple people realised they were feeling the same thing, so we decided to sit down and discuss which direction to take. After talking, it became evident that our paths were simply going in different directions, and that direction was mostly away from Anberlin.

5) And they’re sentimental enough to leave their legacy on a good note. Spirits are high within the group, and we’re definitely still close. In fact, I think forcing another few years out of the band would’ve changed how some of us felt. 6) 12 years on, they’ve never let the unintentional association with religious stereotypes faze them. I don’t think we ever could break away from the ‘Christian’ label in the end. People have always viewed us in that sense because of our personal faith. I do think we overcame some of the stigma though; it stopped people from taking us too seriously. 7) They churned out one last album before saying goodbye. Lowborn is a simple statement on where we started and where we’ve been able to end up over the past 12 years. Starting a band in a small town with no music scene and having that band become what it has, that’s something worth noting.

easy to forget the pressure of pleasing a label or fan base. We tried to make an album that reflected who we are right now at the end of our career. I hope we accomplished that. 9) They’ll never stop making music, even in another life. I’m not sure where our future roads will lead, but I do hope we’ll all continually be a part of making music in some way. I, for one, plan to keep writing and recording. Hopefully people will like what they hear. 10) They’ve always been grateful for their blessings, till the very end. It feels surreal every day to see and hear the reactions of people we have impacted over these years. I’m sure different decisions could have caused us to break up a long time ago, or they could have even made us bigger, but I’m happy with how things turned out.

Anberlin’s Farewell World Tour drops by Singapore on September 12 at TAB. anberlin.com

8) They faithfully stayed true in the process. I think we really just tried to be ourselves more than ever before. With the end in sight, it was

Text Kevin Ho Image Anberlin / PMMLA Interview courtesy of Upsurge Productions

CHAT

DARKER THAN WONKY SAMUEL TRUTH

On Rising Above Challenges I don’t think there have been a lot of external challenges when it comes to making music. I’ve been lucky enough to have a very supportive family and friends who have helped me a lot. I think the main challenges for me are finding inspiration for new sounds and just trying to create something consistently interesting.

On Whizzing Through Wonky I love the wonky sound. I think the first time I heard it was during my last year of studies when a friend of mine showed me his brother, S.F.T’s music on SoundCloud. It was the first time I’d heard that really extreme swinging wonky drumwork and I was pretty mesmerised by it, so I searched for more on SoundCloud and just got addicted.

On Video Game Inspirations [Laughs] I’m definitely into gaming. I don’t have a TV and my only computer is my MacBook so I don’t get to play as much as I used to. But I try to keep up with the latest gaming news as much as I can.

On Abandoning The Guitar I always wanted to make instrumental guitar music like Steve Vai or Joe Satriani, but I think making beats was quite liberating after just practising scales over and over. It was definitely an easy transition since it was really exciting to be able to create full tracks by myself with no external hardware.

What is wonky, you ask? Think eight-bit synths, choppy hip-hop beats and pitch-bent vocals a la Wave Racer and Bobby Tank, and you’ll have a fairly good grip on the genre, as does this NZ boy wonder who’s been picked up by SG’s very own Darker Than Wax label. Following a mega set at The Vault, Truth waxes lyrical about his young but auspicious career. huge diversity within the label in terms of style and experience, so you can always get a different view on your music. There is also just a great support network there and I don’t think I could get that with another label.

On Meeting Their Standards I definitely try to make my releases on DTW sound less like a beat-tape, and have more of a relatable theme than some of my previous stuff. It’d have to be more chilled-out, something that I would want to listen to on wax. And I must say, it’s a really awesome feeling to have your own song on vinyl.

On Playing A Set Surrounded By Bicycles The bikes displayed by Coast Cycles at The Vault were really sick, and definitely tempted me into some exercise. Except, I haven’t ridden a bike since I was 14. I don’t know if I remember how to [laughs].

On Emotion Without Lyrics I think with beats, a lot of people draw something from the title of the song, so I like to name some tracks randomly and let people come up with their own interpretations. A lot of the stuff I make sounds like love songs to me [laughs].

On Music Obsessions

There is a massive amount of talent in the beat scene over here, way more producers coming out of NZ than there is an audience for it. I think a lot of producers in the scene here know each other, even if it’s just online.

I’m very obsessed with making music. It’s become less of a hobby and more of a daily requirement now, and I get pretty frustrated if I can’t make some music after a while. I struggle a lot with inspiration though; I have to hear something that I haven’t heard before and it usually triggers some creativity so it’s not very efficient.

On Darker Than Wax

samueltruth.bandcamp.com

On The NZ Scene

I’ve been with Darker Than Wax for over a year now and it’s been really great for me as an artiste and also as someone who’s quite new to the scene. There is

Text Kevin Ho Image Olivia Sari-Goerlach / OSG Photography Interview courtesy of Darker Than Wax

FRENCH BOSTON CONNECTION BUN Vive la France! Oui monsieurs, the European dance circuit comprises more than just house heavyweights from Amsterdam and techno tricksters from Berlin. Saunter down the streets of Paris and you’ll be well acquainted with one familiar label called Ed Banger, which, in addition to boosting French acts like Justice and the late DJ Mehdi, happens to be represented by this rising roster favourite. So much so that you can catch him spinning side-by-side with fervent endorser and label founder, Pedro Winter, who even deems this mid-20s producer instrumental to the future of French dance music.

FOCUS ARTISTE

Before dipping his fingers in music professionally however, Noyer actually started out as a filmmaker directing MVs, and eventually followed the footsteps of similar visual designers-turned-musicians like Breakbot. He embarked on a remixing spree for peers like Myd and Maelstrom, and stirred some audial controversy with the bass-swinging beats of single “Flasher”, deterring genitalia-exposing fiends from revealing the terrors from their pants. Merci indeed. High-profile name drops and gimmicky samples aside, Noyer has been fending for himself just fine with his proficient expertise in house music, revealed most recently in his We Got Soul EP. Featuring Bear Who?, the title track mixes hip-hop wordplay with acid-squelching synths, while “Time Bomb” froths smoothly with a mild deep house gloss, thanks to the looped sensual vocals of Piu Piu. Whether you’re absorbing it all while cruising on the dancefloor or soaking in a bubble bath, Noyer’s French conditioning is crystal clear – sexy, sophisticated, and sandwiched with creativity.

bbbbostonbun.com

IF YOU LIKE THAT, YOU’LL LOVE THESE…

RITON

GESAFFELSTEIN

MAELSTROM

This Briton veteran might be based across the channel from his French counterparts, but there’s no denying that he’s cut from the same cloth; holding a sweet spot on Ed Banger’s roster as well. Sprightly tech-house with snazzy production.

Perhaps one of the hottest French names out there now that isn’t Daft Punk, Gesaffelstein cemented his young career with this dynamo of a debut. Together with The Hacker, this techno pursuer’s fortifying the French scene too with his Zone Records label.

More than just establishing the foundation of Boston Bun two years ago by approving a rework of his “House Music” single, Maelstrom is yet another identity that swirls in the French scene with his dark delivery of techno.

BAD GUY RiRi EP

ALEPH

DISCORD EP

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

BUSY P

GET BUSY EP

AKA Pedro Winter, the aforementioned honcho of Ed Banger who’s confidently taken Boston Bun under his wing, a listen to this mentor’s sounds makes the understanding of their relationship an easy one – house music that’s delicate and punchy at the same time.

NOISE MAKERS OF THE MONTH CHRISTIANE MIKAELA Take note boys, this vintage-obsessed pin-up girl’s gon’ teach y’all how to love a woman. Palpably fronting a personality that’s painted with spunk and sass, this singer-songwriter packs a formidable voice that comes entwined with meaningfully written compositions – from challenges with OCD, to saving Gaia herself. Like a blast from the past, this Noise mentee shares with us a conversation that’s simply classic.

So how has Noise Singapore’s The Music Mentorship been for you so far? It’s been amazing. I’ve learnt so much, and have definitely grown a lot both as an individual and musician in many ways. Everyone in Noise is exceptionally talented and unique though, so I definitely need to bring my A-game!

As a songwriter, your primary source of inspiration should come from personal experience. I find that ‘confessional’ songs entrenched in powerful emotional encounters are of better quality and popularity. “How To Love A Woman” was borne from my frustrations with liking someone who didn’t know how to love or respect me.

We have to ask – why the vintage fixation? I’ve always had a penchant for vintage things – from little knick-knacks to electronics, hair to the girls. There’s just something mysterious about old-school. I have an undeniable affinity with it. Plus, it feels like I belong in that era!

There’s also a song called “Germaine”, which we believe is based on OCD tendencies? Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, in a nutshell, is having uncontrollable obsessions and compulsions that impair your ability to live life normally. I grew up living with multiple people who were trapped in this world, and this in turn affected me in many ways, though I don’t have OCD myself. “Germaine” in my song is a personification, portraying a cunning temptress who breaks families apart.

You describe yourself as a “part-time pin-up girl”. Do you perceive yourself as someone who’s…well, sensual? Definitely! The pin-up girl actually encapsulates me rather well. We’re fun and playful, yet alluring and intelligent. Blues and jukebox music are very sensual genres, and if you listen carefully to my songs, they’re actually peppered with a whole bunch of sexual innuendos. We understand you took part in the Eco Music Challenge last year? Yeah, “Lady Earth” was my first go at songwriting about a specified topic, as well as tackling recording, video, and editing on my own. Phew! After becoming a finalist, I also had the opportunity to record it professionally, which was another virgin experience that made me realise just how much I wanted to pursue music as a career. So you’re a lover of the environment too huh? Indeed. I really do believe in saving the Earth; I take shorter showers, recycle, and am a die-hard advocate of upcycling and thrift shopping – also a form of reducing wastage. You can discover lots of hidden gems in random thrift stores.

CALL OUT It’s time to make some Noise! Watch 18 young local bands and musicians from Noise Singapore’s The Music Mentorship take over the stage at The Esplanade from September 12 to 14, in an awesome three-day concert series! Come and be inspired by the future of the Singapore music scene. For those who love visual arts, catch the Noise Singapore 2014 Festival Exhibition over at ION Orchard Basement 4, with artworks from over 250 talented young artists on display. Now till September 14. More details over at bit.ly/noisefest2014. Follow @noisesingapore on social media or explore the hashtag #no14e for more.

You’ve got a couple of original compositions on your YouTube channel, including one titled “How To Love A Woman”. First-hand experience?

We hear your debut EP is only coming out in early 2016. Why the long wait? I’m actually in the midst of completing my Honours year in Psychology, which only ends mid-2015. The time in between then and 2016 will be used to learn more about the industry and hone my skills further, so that the EP will be an even better version of Christiane Mikaela. You’ve got pretty strong vocals. Did you come from a singing background, or are you entirely self-trained? Thank you! I’m entirely self-trained. Singing has been my passion since childhood, and I’ve never stopped trying to improve my vocals. I do, however, want to go back to the basics before releasing my EP, especially since it’s quite dangerous to do my trademark growls with the wrong technique. Let’s end with a fun one. If your life were an old black-and-white film, what kinda character would you think you’d be? Hmm…I’d probably be the sexy bandit blazing in on a white horse, who tricks all the boys into handing over their jewels and gold!

facebook.com/ChristianeMikaela

RESONATOR REEL Patrick Chng

We shone the spotlight on this Oddfellow last month for boosting homegrown talents as a producer (The Pinholes, Shelves), but that’s just one of his countless achievements in a career that’s spanned decades. Still touring the world today with his band, Typewriter, Chng has also shaped the scene as the co-founder of walkonmusic.net, a judge for Baybeats, and even an official representative for Gibson guitars. Not to mention, he’s probably the sincerest, most modest mentor you’ll ever have the privilege of meeting. Take our word for it – sometimes all you need is a good ol’ pat on the back.

CLARIAN

LISTEN UP

We always tip our hats to anyone obsessed with music, much like ourselves. This inquisitive Montreal native has had self-confessed classical and punk phases growing up, writes folk music for amusement, and first made his musical mark as one half of new-wave outfit, Footprintz. Sounds rather eccentric? Well it’s no wonder he’s been personally favoured by the equally unconventional Seth Troxler, sifting though the gamut of talent as A&R for Troxler’s Soft Touch label. As for himself, Clarian has been rolling into dance circuits, prominently with his deep house Guy Gerber collaboration in “Claire”. He’s since released his latest Road To Recovery EP, featuring more of his flexible fondness for beat building; combining deep house with overlapping elements from ambient and post-dubstep. Creamy, dramatic, and bumpy enough for the floor. clarianmusic.com

BLEACHERS Some nights, you’ll catch Jack Antonoff hammering guitar hooks for forever-young band, fun.. While on others, you’ll find this bespectacled multi-instrumentalist pushing his potential further with his newest indie-pop exploit. It’s not his first foray outside of fun. following his expired frontman stint with Steel Train, though you’ll pinpoint the former’s influence rather bountifully in his debut record, Strange Desire. Making fun. fans gleeful with the gleaming gang vocals and falsetto harmonies of key single, “I Wanna Get Better”, Antonoff’s also owns this one-man show with works reflecting the bouncily rampant energies of Grouplove and invigorating synthwork of Erasure. He’s even expanded his experimental chops with contributions from Grimes and Yoko Ono, proving that this pet project is more than just simmering on the sidelines. bleachersmusic.com

ON OUR PLAYLIST THIS MONTH QRION The Japanese music scene doesn’t go unnoticed from our watchful eye (of course there’s more than Perfume and Kyary Pamyu Pamyu), but even we are bowing our heads in dishonourable shame for not catching this border-crossing lass sooner! It took her a dazzling collaboration she nailed with Canadian producer Ryan Hemsworth to gain international traction, titled “Every Square Inch”, which blooms with sequential bursts of chill-wave, electro and wonky. But prior to having the world’s peepers on her, she had already released her third album, Sink, earlier this year, which reveals her solo repertoire of nature-acquired field recordings and Shugo Tokumaru-esque whimsicalities. You’ll even hear her laying down her own silent childlike crooning against pitch-bent vocal samples. Oh, and this Sapporo producer is only 19. qrion.net

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

SW/MM/NG These Arkansas musicians have been known to call their craft many things – “lake-pop” or “dad-rock, if your dad is into reverb-y pop” – but for the sake of wading away from genre saturation, we’re contentedly accepting these scene-swimmers as good ol’ can’t-do-no-wrong dream-pop. Since wiping away the lo-fi fuzz from their demos of yesteryear, which in an alternate universe, had them sounding like a garage-rocking Maccabees, they’re now set to come clean with their Feel Not Bad debut LP. Gone are the grainy films of static, and out pop dense layers of a whole different kind – draping guitar melodies and breezy synth pads that would make Real Estate wanna move in. Sprawl yourself on that hammock and sway away to tunes “All I Want” and “Younger”; this be ch/ll/ng done right. swimmingforever.bandcamp.com

“You can’t have the sound without the look. When you go to gigs and see that done to an extreme, it really hits you in the face in a good way.” – Johnny Blake

LIVING IN A MAGAZINE (2001)

ANALOGUE AESTHETIC ZOOT WOMAN

Bowie eyeliner, Duran Duran suits and Depeche Mode suaveness – you could’ve fooled us if you pitched Zoot Woman as a flashback-friendly relic of the ’80s. Our historically-flawed presumption is in fact, two decades off course, for this synth-pop trio was riding the (new-)wave in the early noughties. It was a misconception they fought off for years, yet they never compromised on their stylised presentations and androgynous showmanship, which Brian Molko would hop to the bitter end for.

Dispelling the qualms that they were possibly gone for good following a six-year album break, Zoot Woman’s first comeback album assured fans that relations were still cordial between them, despite Price’s absence. A dance-focused 33 record that pounds with perfected production.

ESSENTIALS

Zoot Woman first alarmed critics with the ’80s-tuned niche of this debut, though it remained relevant with a modicum of modernity through breakthrough singles like “It’s Automatic”, “You And I”, and its skippity title track which we must say, affirms this very feature.

THINGS ARE WHAT THEY USED TO BE (2009)

It wasn’t just their jams in glam that toyed with audial timelines, as critics began regarding them as champions of the electroclash movement – a rewound hybrid of new-wave rudiments and throwback techno. Their Living In A Magazine debut album was, at the time, a novel mish-mash with a nostalgic twist, with percussions pumping outta drum machines and synths manually generated from analogue gadgets. The establishing record even featured a rocked-out rework of Kraftwerk’s “The Model”, and you can’t get more old-school than that!

ZOOT WOMAN (2003)

Before the downer in you calls this band a one-trick pony, plug into this album and press play on “Snow White”. Organic drumwork, clips that resemble strings and brass, and even acoustic guitars play the key parts in this boundary-bending contributor.

While the band subsists today with brothers, Adam and Johnny Blake, they owe their collective success to fellow founding member Stuart Price – yes, the mega producer for Pet Shop Boys and Madonna. Though the Jacques Lu Cont originator is often missing during live sets due to his star-studded schedule, Price and the Blake bros have always partaken in a disjointed method of songwriting that, despite doubts, has fashioned the frameworks of three albums and counting. Released just last month, Star Climbing is Zoot Woman’s fourth album that’s dimmed the lights on their iridescent beginnings, having leaked the acid-house/downtempo developments of lead single, “Don’t Tear Yourself Apart”. It’s an intelligent progression that paces on the cusp of forward-thinking experimentation, yet a tell-tale sign that they’re still the same lads forever tripping out on technology, and still looking sharp in the process. Made-up or not.

zootwoman.com

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

STAR CLIMBING (2014)

The second comeback album that no one saw coming; this marked a return that even Price was excited for in the last three years of its making. And considering how it was pieced together with old Casio synthesisers and 909 drum machines, we’d be too!

10 THINGS TO LOVE ABOUT VIBE BEACH SPORTS AND MUSIC FESTIVAL 1

ALERT

Vibe Festival Is The First Of Its Kind. Beach parties aren’t always about getting sloshed in the sand and busting out your best funky chickens. Combining music and sports for a novel debut affair, Vibe introduces this all-day extravaganza that aims to ingrain a balanced outlook on “life, competition, celebration and entertainment”. Sounds like a formula we could live by alright!

You Can Show Off Your Sporty Side. Dancing won’t be your only form of exercise here. Slap on your competitive gusto and rough it out in the various sports events. Dig and spike in the volleyball courts, and get your Pele on with some beach footy. We unfit bums on the other hand – you’ll find us at the beer pong tables.

34 alix pfrunder

Set A New Record With Zumba. Who would’ve thought you could turn aerobics into a worldwide dance sensation? Well, the art of Zumba has done just that! French Zumba celebrity Alix Pfrunder will be in attendance to show y’all how it’s done, and you can even help make history by joining 1,200 fans in Singapore’s largest Zumba dance congregation.

You Can Pretty Much Do Nada And Still Have A Blast. Don’t let your two left feet deprive you of the festive vibes! Treat yourself to culinary goodies at the assorted bars and food stations, get pampered in style at their VIP lounge areas, and marvel at the slickest style trends with their Sunset Fashion Show segment. Or hey, if you’re chill like us, just pick a cosy spot and make sand angels. yuki

DJ Yuki Spins The Sounds Of Potato Head…Yes, The Bali One. Anyone who’s been to Bali would tell you how radical and breathtaking Potato Head Beach Club is. And one bonus point that perfectly complements its sunset view and delectable F&Bs is its classy soundtrack – curated and mixed by this Japanese expat. Have yourself a taste of the original Potato Head with their charismatic resident DJ, who will have you swirling in a groove with Balearic house, nu-disco and funk.

Miles Slater Will Be Serving Some Luxurious Beats. From Potato Head in Bali to Boujis in Hong Kong, this head of music and entertainment firmly believes in catering to opulent palates, yet keeping it fun and light-hearted for the juvenile roisterer in you. Slater’s refined blends of house music are in great demand, so trust us when we say you’ll get every penny’s worth.

jean-baptiste

miles slater

There’s Love For Local Too. Reppin’ the local soundscape through their respective collectives and establishments, latch on to your sense of Singa pride with Kenneth Francis from The Vault, Jean-Baptiste from DOOMPH!, and Anand, Joshua P and Styluxtakut from KU DÉ TA. With a pitch to play off-kilter genres like UK Funky, Afrobeat and Latin, we’re giving the music a gold star for diversity!

john o’ callaghan

an21

AN21 Will Get You Tingly With A Surge Of Electro-House. This dashing Swede doesn’t simply nail it outta instinct, it’s in his blood. The younger brother of Steve Angello (Swedish House Mafia), Antoine Josefsson (AKA AN21) has made a name for himself with his hard-hitting flurries of progressive and electro-house, landing momentous blows on the EDM industry. Fist-pumping is a sorta sport too yeah?

cosmic gate

And We Will Finally Get To Catch Cosmic Gate! Yes they’re back, and deservedly so! Before you start going “huh?” and remembering that these German icons were just here two months ago, do recall that these cosmic crusaders were shut down by the po-po before they could even drop a beat. So it’s rightfully opportune for this trance duo to reclaim their headlining spot, at a festival that’s as grand as their transcendent symphonies; raising the spirits of partyfolk with divine synth-clustered arrangements and vocals worth getting teary-eyed over. That’s trance for you – and these guys know it best.

Vibe Beach Sports And Music Festival happens on Saturday, October 18, at Siloso Beach, Sentosa. Grab your tickets and find out more at vibebeachfest.com.

Text Kevin Ho Images Vibe Festival, Laurene Berchoteau (Jean-Baptiste)

There’s Trance Trickery From John O’ Callaghan. Hit the sandy floor with this Irish veteran for yet another pot o’ gold. Callaghan’s ranked as one of the top trance DJs in the world, and his Subculture concept has grown from a sub-label of Armin van Buuren’s Armada Music to its very own independent identity, selling out shows from UK to Argentina. And no ladies, he’s not the vocalist from The Maine, obviously.

INDIE OLDIES RESIDENCIES

POPS OF THE TOP

Your Wake-Me-Up Jam Ginette: “Light And Day” by The Polyphonic Spree. It starts off quiet, then explodes into extreme joy, which is excellent for setting the tone for the rest of the day. Jinmart: “Hooked On A Feeling” by Blue Swede, no thanks to Guardians Of The Galaxy. Otherwise, it’s usually some 150-160bpm song…think Bloc Party. Why Your Partner Is So Cool G: Terrence (Jinmart) is loads cooler than me because he’s got such great music taste that spans many genres, whereas I love only very specific types of music. J: What are you talking about? Ginette defines the word! She sings and plays bass for Astreal; in my books that’s awesome! One Valuable Lesson From Your Past Stints G: Give your all to the crowd, and they give you back tenfold. J: RAWK NEVER DIES. Why Pops Of The Top Kicks Butt G: Terrence and I were hanging out and discussed starting another indie night, but one that could reach out to the people who used to go to BEAT! and Poptart – in short, indie retirees who want some place to sit (and maybe get on their Zimmer frames and bop around for a bit…joking!) to tunes they loved so much from the ’80s, ’90s and noughties. J: We aim to take you through a musical journey, covering indie, alternative and Brit-pop that’s mostly pre-millennial. Your Knowledge Of The Top Of The Pops Telly Show G: I can’t remember if it was a regular programme on our airwaves. In the ’90s, I would buy the magazine and it was really cool. But now it’s kinda lame! What happened? And when the Internet started getting accessible, I would look for snippets of my favorite bands. J: I think they never screened that here on FTA channels. I had it on YouTube when I was in uni.

Without a doubt, these are two names that every indie kid and retired hipster should know. Moving on from their prior residencies in BEAT! and Poptart respectively, Ginette Chittick and Jinmart are rockin’ the Casbah with their latest indie series at Loof. So we put the compatibility of this dynamite duo to the test, with crucial matters pertaining to TV, beer pong and professional wrestling.

Your Day Jobs G: I’m the Programme Leader of the Diploma In Fashion at LASALLE College Of The Arts, shaping young minds (at least I think I do) of future Singapore! I also co-own a little fashion label called FruFru & Tigerlily with my best friends; we make clothes, leather bags and occasionally, art. J: I am a corporate slave, selling foreign exchange trading ideas. Why Loof Suits You J: We wanted something less ‘club-ish’ and more relaxed. Loof, at the same time, was looking for something to take over the vacuum left behind by their Loofapalooza nights, and the rest is history. The music we are going to play suits the older crowd more, and hence the bar scene works best in this case. G: The venue is perfect to unwind after work and the interiors are so beautifully designed. Besides, who doesn’t love a good drink in hand at a rooftop with amazing choons? Beer-Pong – Ace Activity, Or Surefire Hangover? G: Hmm, considering that I’m not a big fan of getting drunk and not exactly sporty, it’s the latter. J: Who needs beer pong to get a hangover…? What’s Brewing On Your Playlist G: “(I Just Wanna) B With U” by Transvision Vamp, “Children” by EMF, “Leave Them All Behind” by Ride, “Kill All Hippies” by Primal Scream, “Elephant Stone” by The Stone Roses, and “Hypocrite” by Lush. J: “Pretty In Pink” by The Psychedelic Furs, “Connection” by Elastica, and “In The Meantime” by Spacehog Your Dream Tag-Team Name G: D*mn, Mis-shapes is already taken. We’ll just have to go with Shoplifters Of The World. J: LEGION OF DOOM. We love spikes, face paint, hawks, and animals.

loof.com.sg

Text Kevin Ho Images Jinmart, Ginette Chittick and The Lo & Behold Group Interview courtesy of The Lo & Behold Group

GREAT SCOTS TRAVIS

The indie-rock Scots felt at home in Singapore for the fourth time, teasing the ‘royalty’ on the balconies of The Star Theatre, and reminiscing about their 2001 back-to-back showcase with Coldplay. Someone yelled, “Rubbish!”. Bassist Dougie Payne beamed.

From “Holy Beard!” shockers to witty monologues about Norwegian coins; intimately acoustic serenades to moments where all we wanted to do was rock; Travis’ fourth visit gave us nothing but good feelings.

The band even showed us where they currently stood in the industry with upbeat tracks from their latest album, including global single “Moving”, which revealed shades of their early stadium-rocking days. It’s always rewarding to witness a band so clearly re-inspired.

Dominating with a discography that traced all the way back to 1997, Travis didn’t just indulge in more commercially successful oldies like “Turn” and “Side”, but also the very first song they wrote together, “All I Want To Do Is Rock”.

In what was undoubtedly the most emotional segment of the evening, fans had to restrain from yelling along to the band’s acoustic rendition of “Flowers In The Window”, where they were specifically requested to watch in silence. Far from snobbish, it was absolutely magical.

Healy enjoyed conversing in between songs, divulging the stories behind his songwriting. We caught tales about writing for his kids, how he was baffled by Norwegian coins with holes in them, and even the abusive relationship his mother faced, transitioning poetically into “Re-Offender”.

And while the audience miraculously obliged, they were immediately beckoned to let all the tension out as Travis finished off with arguably their most famous tune, “Why Does It Always Rain On Me?” – a finale that had everyone drenched in bittersweet nostalgia and memories to take home. Text Kevin Ho Images Dominic Phua

REPORT

We don’t quite remember when frontman Fran Healy went full-on farmer with his folky hat and Amish beard, but our qualms were placated once his signature calming vocals revisited timeless hits like “Driftwood” and “Love Will Come Through”.

While Healy had his occasional rock-star impulses, it was guitarist Andy Dunlop who trumped all levels of showmanship by not just juggling between guitars and banjos on “Sing”, but even climbing atop the stack of amps in blithe disregard. Rock on, Dunlop.

FOXY LOVE KITSUNÉ CLUB NIGHT WITH GILDAS

REPORT

People tend to underestimate the significance of record labels. Simply put, names like Klaxons, La Roux and Two Door Cinema Club would’ve flown over your head if not for the nurturing from this Frenchman’s brainchild, Kitsuné. So to have this savvy chieftain enlighten the Velvet Underground crowd – sportingly festooned with fox masks – on his impeccable taste, we were modestly privileged to say the least. Big ups to a rousing warm-up set from Poptart’s Adrian Wee, who drew roisterers to the floor with indie remixes of The xx and nu-disco nuggets from Todd Terje. Much glee from Weelikeme!

With the bar set high, Gildas moseyed over it with elegant savoir-faire, keeping the indie momentum high with fresh selections from Shamir, Dan Croll and Disclosure, and even some classic earworms from Hot Chip and The Cure. But house fans were treated justly too, with trending tunes from ZHU and Kiesza, and even a Cyril Hahn remix of Destiny’s Child. Despite being bombarded by awkward song requests and photo-taking duties (no one cares about your selfie), this Kaiser of Kitsuné remained poised all night, without ever missing a cue. What does the fox say? We now know, thanks to Gildas.

Text Kevin Ho Images Zouk Management

CLEAN SLATE

CANVAS SINGAPORE SWANKY MAKEOVER We dug the murky, grimey ambience of Home Club before, but c’mon, that clean-up was a long time coming. Spotless on the inside, with LED walls and projections; and out, with varnished floors and revamped dining fixtures. BOOZE IN ALL CORNERS Remember having to convey covert hand signals to catch the bartender’s attention in the bar mosh? Well with two spacious bars nestled within opposite ends of the club, you can now quench your thirst and sashay to the floor in time for your favourite jam.

MUSIC’S STILL MASSIVE We weren’t expecting any crushing disappointment with Ming, Jerls and William J onboard as residents, but Canvas’ musical cred was officially validated with UK duo Eton Messy, whose flurry of house and bass music punched smoothly through the booming sound system. No more rattling windows! TRIPPING OUT, WITHOUT TRIPPING Dancing’s obviously important to us, so we do appreciate the expanded floor space that’s fit for dance moves galore. No more stumbling steps and elevated podium to collide into. But worry not sentimental peeps, the pillar’s still there! That we don’t mind.

Text Kevin Ho Images Colossal Photos

NEW BLOOD Not just referring to the new management, but we couldn’t help but notice the refreshing breed of partygoers in the vicinity. Suited hunks and killer-heeled lasses were spotted living it up, while we still high-fived with our accustomed hipster brethren.

GONE GAZING SLOWDIVE ENO INTRO No chord had been struck, yet we were already deafened by the hype. Glimmering before us was Slowdive’s lowercased logotype, as Brian Eno’s “Deep Blue Day” established the premise for the shoegazed set ahead. Into a dream we fell with openers “Slowdive” and “Avalyn” – it was everything we hoped for. THICK WITH THREE A wall of sound engulfed The Ground Theatre with the band’s three guitars, all densely layering atop one another with fuzz and reverb. It wasn’t a show where you disruptively clapped along to, nor sang in unison; this was one chill-out communion with everyone swaying hypnotically to classics like “Catch The Breeze” and “Souvlaki”.

EVERYBODY LOVES RACHEL While Neil Halstead shed tears with his shredding, it was Rachel Goswell who stole the show with her adorably shy personality and whispery vocals – falsettos that tenderly surfaced from the saturated haze. “So many guitars,” she even joked at one point. Hearts fluttered. RETURN TO FORM Watching the quintet breeze through songs like “40 Days” and “Alison” with ease, you’d be forgiven for forgetting they’d just re-emerged from a 20-year hiatus. That said, we don’t know if we’ll ever see ’em again, but boy are we thrilled we got to dive back into our childhoods for just a fleeting moment.

ABSENT FLAWS Deja vu – that’d our sum up our sensations aptly, especially since we caught these indie-rock nice guys at that same space two years ago. The magnitude of The Ground Theatre posed no threat to Jack Steadman’s meek stage persona, rambling in rich accents we struggled to decipher. Thoroughly showcasing the entirety of their latest electronica-based record, the band bobbed in confidence to new favourites like “It’s Alright Now”, “Luna” and “Feel”. And it wasn’t just the uptempo numbers they aced, exhibiting their emotive soft sides with “Eyes Off You” and “Home By Now”, which featured the saccharine guest vocals of indie-pop starlet, Liz Lawrence.

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB

Jack, of course, was the star of the stage, even making a deadpan dedication to Shakira on “Whenever, Wherever”. It was in these unpredicted outbursts of sass where Jack revealed his inner showman, something which he brazenly whipped out during the group’s older hits. While “Lights Out, Words Gone” had him swinging his hips, aggressive yester-tunes like “What If” and “Evening/Morning” had Jack stumbling on-stage like a guitar-jangling madman, dragging the heightened energies of everyone along with him. Watching these two sides of BBC unfold in tandem, it epitomised what everyone’s come to adore about these evolving songcrafters. Text Kevin Ho Images Harris Sim, Kenneth Lee

REPORT

Text Kevin Ho Images Marie Claire Khoo, Nur Amali Effendy, Syazwan Kamsani

FIVE POINTS SPARTAK

They may be fresh-faced, but creative collective DUNCE has certainly came charging out of the gates ever since its inception. Most recently, DUNCE invited Canberra/Sydney outfit Spartak for a Singapore showcase within the cosy confines of The Lithe Paralogue Studio. And as an added bonus, we also got three beloved (but very different) acts as openers! .gif kicked things off in fine style despite a couple of minor technical hiccups before Syndicate’s newest gem, Intriguant, blew our socks off. This time, he brought along a live band to spruce up his brilliant, broody beats with a little post-rock swell.

a/b (with dreamy OHP visuals by Ila) then intrigued us by gorgeously melding Bani Haykal’s abstract soundscapes with Adam Adhiyatma’s grungy, growling riffs. But naturally, the show closed with headliners Spartak, who left the biggest impression. Their Brainfeeder by way of Berlin electronic influences were artfully grasped within a noisy synth sheaf and given life by Shoeb Ahmad’s hypnotic vocals. You never quite know where Spartak’s sonic journey might take you during a live performance, and that’s especially apropos for an eye-opening night like this, featuring off-kilter talents that contrast just as much as they complement.

REPORT

Text Hidzir Junaini Images DUNCE

TUNES & & TRINKETS BANDWAGON: THE MUSIC MARKET 2014

It’s not easy keeping tabs on all gigs in Singapore, yet the busy bees behind Bandwagon managed to pull off this all-rounded fiesta, for music-lovers and shopaholics alike. ’s official Sipping on Somersby cider tucked within goodie bags (heck yeah, product placement!), we patronised pop-up stores selling snacks, clothes and music merch, as the acoustic airs of Jaime Wong from The Diarists provided an accompanying soundtrack. With a cupcake in mouth, we could barely chow down next as we gaped at the trip-hop experimentations of Intriguant, beefed up with a full ensemble comprising strings and live drumming.

We hitched a ride on Cashew Chemists’ road trip through rock & roll, before we took a detour into soul, with Gareth Fernandez flashing his silky voice and dramatic panache alongside his talented posse. Keeping the buzz high, The Sam Willows consistently delivered their A-game with folk-pop favourites, and Bandwagon made scene history by revealing the exclusive collaboration between alt-rockers Two Seas and post-rock newbies Sphaeras; a berserk showmanship of seven musicians. Their collective ferocities however, couldn’t compare to post-hardcore headliners, A Vacant Affair, who closed the music market with ringing ears and blown voices – in our opinion, the aftermath of a gig well assembled. Cheers to Bandwagon!

Text Kevin Ho Images Nabil Nazri & Md Haziq / Bandwagon

CHRIS WALLA LEAVES DEATH CAB FOR CUTIE Yes it’s true folks, the DCFC guitarist won’t be following them into the dark no more. After 17 years as the band’s co-founder and producer of its seven albums, Walla’s calling it quits to pursue his “longing for the unknown”, with aching assertions of how saddened he was to go. But for fans who need Walla so much closer, you’ll still find him making music full-time, just not with his ‘Transatlantic’ buds.

LIL WAYNE – THA CARTER V So as it turns out – Weezy’s gon’ be retiring! Prior to the drop of the fifth (and final) part of his autobiographical concept, Carter announced that he was taking the retirement route to spend time with his family. But he ain’t making us teary-eyed without a dope beat to step to, having leaked Instavideos of him and Drake in the studio. Drizzy fans holla! youngmoney.com

PICK

SBTRKT – WONDER WHERE WE LAND

LEE GAMBLE – KOCH Anyone who can take a genre and jumble it up is brilliant in our books. Since 2012, Gamble has been doing just that with deconstructed executions of jungle and techno, and is following up with a new LP that purports to convey themes of “hallucination, memory and phantasm”, applying ambient drones, lo-fi beats and unorthodox methods that are both unsettling and fascinating. soundcloud.com/leegamble

Gazing past the tribal Tiki masks of this post-dubstep producer, who would’ve guessed SBTRKT had an appetite for the Big Apple too? Revealed in his latest single, “NEW DORP. NEW YORK”, featuring Vampire Weekend’s Ezra Koenig, the nimble track is a bouncy number with plump basslines, industrial clanks and even a subtle nod to Beastie Boys. Keep your ears out for guest spots from Sampha, A$AP Ferg, and Chairlift’s Caroline Polachek! sbtrkt.com

WATCH

PEACE – “LOST ON ME”

PIONAL – “IT’S ALL OVER”

As much as we don’t like admitting this – dancing can be deadly! Especially when you don’t know how to stop. This hilarious vid shows the Birmingham indie-rock quartet rehearsing a cheesy dance routine, and things go haywire when their choreographer takes his eyes off them for a moment.

Don’t be fooled by the hand-drawn caricatures and perky hues, this here tells a sullen adaptation of Spanish dance culture in the early ’90s, a subject this Spanish producer knows too well. There is beauty to be found in this morbid tale however, within the meticulous construction of this animation, spliced together with 2000 water-coloured images.

ROBYN & RÖYKSOPP – “MONUMENT”

And here’s another reason to get ecstatic over the Scandinavian superteam. Accompanying their synth-y prowess with an interstellar video based on ’70s sci-fi comics, this cosmic trip has viewers drifting through galaxies and alien structures, while our musician protagonists give emotion to the fantasy while revolving on a gravity-defying disc. Very 2001!

GROUPER – RUINS Critics have referred to Liz Harris’ project as one of dark-folk, and we totes empathise with its eerie saturation of reverb and barely-there vocals, brushing faintly against some semblance of strumming. Ruins continues the gloomy fairytale, written during a residency in Portugal amidst daily beach strolls and the self-scrutiny of “political anger and emotional garbage”. Listen to this alone – absolutely alone. kranky.net

PICK

STARS – NO ONE IS LOST Does anyone not like this Montreal outfit? They don’t just make Eternal Sunshine references and concept albums about ghosts, they’ve also consistently evolved their sound from electronica to indie-pop, to stadium-sized baroque rock. And on this seventh record, it seems like they’ve gone disco! Recorded above a discotheque, their single, “From The Night”, showcases funk guitars and synthesised strings, with a sardonic tinge of melancholy that Stars does best. youarestars.com

MICHAEL CERA’S NEW ALBUM IS AMAZING.NO, SERIOUSLY. Arrested Development and Juno might’ve typecasted Cera as the most awkward hipster ever, but critics are seeing the Canadian actor in a whole new light thanks to his unexpected release, which meekly murmured outta nowhere. Titled True That, the compilation is a lo-fi Garageband effort that astonishingly impresses with its folky queerness – a quality Cera thought no one would “ever listen to”. Cera goes into Broadway next.

PICK

KINDNESS – OTHERNESS Rapper Vic Mensa reveals being electrocuted while crashing Lollapalooza.

Thom Yorke goes barn-dancing with drunk hippies, unrecognised, in obscure music festival in Cornwall

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

Let’s be kind and rewind. The last we heard of Adam Bainbridge, he was giving the world a change of mind with his disco-fied indie-pop debut in ’11. He’s since kept the classy mish-mash going, with a stellar sophomore record featuring Robyn, Dev Hynes, and Kelela on “World Restart” – a slowed-down soul ride that ambles with funky bass licks, sexy saxophones and house-y beats. soundcloud.com/kindness

FLASH: MUSIC

Steve Aoki preps more flying cakes with Neon Future

TOKIMONSTA – DESIDERIUM Our favourite ‘first lady’ of Brainfeeder is back! Except this time, she’s calling the shots with her own Young Art Records. Marking the label’s debut release, “Realla” off her new album sees the Korean producer traversing familiar territory, emanating trip-hop-tuned-electronica with the help of r&b vocalist, Anderson Paak. And for realla indeed, it’s a sensual follow-up that combines soul with a savvy for technology. tokimonsta.com

5 MINS WITH

SATIN JACKETS

PURLING HISS - WEIRDON

FLASH: MUSIC

It’s remarkable what a lil’ alone-time can do. In the case of guitar-twanging songwriter Mike Polizze, it meant hiding in his basement and letting his imagination run wild. The result is a departure from his band’s heavier psych-punk sound on Water On Mars, producing instead, catchier fuzz-rock with pop-infused fervour, seething with the sensitivity of “stoned soul-searching”. purlinghiss.bandcamp.com

WHILE NATIONAL DAY FIREWORKS WERE TRICKLING ACROSS THE SKY AND OTHER SHINDIGS WERE COMING ALIVE ON THE STREETS, THIS GERMAN MAN-IN-THE-MASK WAS SETTING THE ROOF OF KU DÉ TA ON FIRE WITH HIS NU-DISCO NUANCES. BUT DESPITE HIS STURDY CONFIDENCE ON THE DECKS, HE TURNED OUT TO BE QUITE SHY DURING OUR TEENY CONVERSATION. SEE FOR YOURSELF!

46 So what gave rise to the birth of Satin Jackets, and what is it about your kinda music that makes it so attractive you reckon? Love. There are plenty of old-school flavours that flutter through your sound. Are you nostalgic and sentimental about music of the past? I’m just destined to keep the spirit of good music alive.

DIPLO BANS BRACELETS AND NECKLACES AT GIGS It’s a fad that hasn’t caught on here yet, but apparently kandi accessories – assembled with customisable technicolour beads – have become a peculiar fixture of rave culture in the US. But “nuh uh” says Diplo, who added such ‘harmless’ trinkets to his tour’s list of prohibited items, basing his decision on safety and security grounds. But what’s all the hubba you wonder? Accidental strangulation? Hidden possession of drugs? Go figure!

JOHNNY MARR – PLAYLAND London was Marr’s playland of choice, letting the hectic atmosphere of his environment seep into his songwriting. The ex-Smiths guitarist pens his thoughts about the phenomenon of psycho-geography, subliminal speech and consumerist greed, and even references his own childhood about escaping the Catholic school system that shackled him. With Marr at his deepest yet, we just hope he’s got the jangles in store! johnny-marr.com

We’ve been listening to “You Make Me Feel Good” on repeat; it really is quite a smooth swinger. What was your approach like for making this track? Really, the approach and idea was simple – to make you feel good. Are there any other things outside music that make you feel good? Peace. Okay then. Speaking of original works, can we expect another EP or full-length out from you guys? Yes. Three freshly squeezed originals on our homebase, Eskimo, this August. How do you feel about having this opportunity to play in Singapore, at a venue that’s 57 storeys high? We hope heights aren’t an issue! Nope. I am not afraid of getting high. And we’re curious, but what was the inspiration behind wearing the mask during performances? To demonstrate that music is the real star.

satin-jackets.com

Text Kevin Ho Image & interview courtesy of KU DÉ TA

THE MAIN HOOK BY DON SHIAU

I LOVE YOU BECAUSE YOU’RE TRENDING

“I love Girls!”, she exclaimed. I was interested in her, but I wasn’t disappointed. She was referring to Christopher Owens’ now-defunct band, and I was pointing out their inclusion in the lineup for Laneway Singapore 2012. I wasn’t familiar with Girls’ material, but I naturally pretended to share my friend’s enthusiasm, then furiously studied their back catalogue. At the festival, she and I were two free spirits, indulging in alcoholic one-upmanship. At one point, we decided to make a whiskey run at a nearby convenience store. But which band could we afford to miss, for the sake of getting smashed? You guessed it - Girls. So much for loving the band, huh?

SOUNDS

‘Love’ is a word many people use liberally when it comes to music. I don’t get it. In over two decades of active listening and discovery, I’ve only found four acts that I care enough about to say that I ‘love’. I know their discographies inside out, most of their lyrics, and the personality of each member. I follow their exploits, and imagine the creative process behind every song.

Most importantly, I’ve stuck with them regardless of whatever they’ve put out, taking pride in their best releases, amusement in their worst, and letting all of them form the soundtrack to my life. It’s no accident that I came to know of these acts in my adolescence, which is an impressionable phase, and - in my case - happened in the early years of the Internet. Back then, recorded music was less rampantly available, and therefore more precious.

FAMILIARS

THE ANTLERS (ANTI-)

There’s no mistaking that The Antlers makes depressing songs; their breakthrough album, Hospice, was after all, an album of narrations in a cancer ward. Even now, on their latest, loss and death hover and cloud every song on the nine-song album. But lead vocalist Peter Silberman sees slivers of sunshine now, a certain lightness of being despite of his despondency. Darby Cicci’s mournful trumpet playing, a sinewy presence towing all nine songs together, Silberman’s falsetto drifting across “Doppelganger”, the languid pacing and jazzy feel – a well-woven tapestry most telling of how much The Antlers has grown.

These days, thanks to the convenience of digital recording and delivery, there’s far more music being made, and it’s reaching many more ears. Being a music geek in 2014 means drinking from the fire hoses of Spotify, Bandcamp and YouTube, via recommendations from Pitchfork, Stereogum and your Facebook news feed. Amidst this deluge, there’s an unspoken pressure to be current and relevant, and it’s more difficult to form the kind of attachments people used to have for bands in the 1990s or earlier. It’s also easier to mistake a sudden fancy for a song or video as ‘love’, because who really remembers what it’s like to love anything, in an age where everything is digital and so ephemeral? Hence my sneaky suspicion that, more often than we’d like to admit, we declare fondness for bands we’re supposed to like, rather than music that genuinely speaks to us. This, of course, is nothing new. In the alt-indiesphere, for instance, no-one is allowed to dislike The Smiths, Joy Division, Nirvana or Radiohead. Or The Beatles, for that matter. What’s different now, is that the cycle of popularity for emerging acts is much shorter. One moment you’re a buzz band championed by NME, the next moment you’re “so last year”. And because there’s so much stuff to listen to, we draw our impressions less from listening deeply to albums, and more from how many times we see a name being mentioned by blogs, magazines and friends. It’s the logic of virality, and it’s a volatile soup which can throw up anything from the prodigious Lorde to the insufferable PSY. Two years after skipping Girls’ set for an alcohol break, I stood in a large field, alone and sober, enjoying CHVRCHES’ set at Laneway Singapore 2014. I was amused that they could co-headline the festival on the strength of one album. But who am I to say? Lots of people must really, really love them.

WHAT IS THIS HEART?

HOW TO DRESS WELL (DOMINO)

Those who still remember Tom Krell (How To Dress Well) for his spectral, bedroom r&b songs be warned: the first track off his third album is his most skeletal yet, just a few initial piano plinks, blooming into a full blown acoustic song, with Krell’s voice at its most naked, amateur and wavering. This is Krell wanting to be heard, and hear him we must, hear him we do. After the opener, Krell polishes himself up and turns up the rumbling bass on “Face Again”, going orchestral and cinematic on “Pour Cyril”, only to reach higher heavenly heights on the closer, “House Inside”.

PICKS OF THE SEA WHEN ABSENT

A Sunny Day In Glasgow

(LEFSE) Listening to A Sunny Day In Glasgow’s latest is like biting into a tomato and feeling the fruit burst sodapop, citrus and candy flavours into the mouth – unexpected and surprising. It’s My Bloody Valentine lifting gaze-on-shoes to view-tothe-sun, creating technicoloured pop-rock that twists and turns into corners so scintillating that you just wanna lose yourself in this psychedelic trip.

HONEYBLOOD

Honeyblood

(FAT CAT) At the risk of sounding sexist, we like rock chicks who make ballsy rock; much love goes out for the Glaswegian duo of Stina Tweeddale and Shona McVicar AKA Honeyblood. They trade in ’90s indie rock like their sorority seniors, Juliana Hatfield, the Breeders, etc., spitting out breezy, scuzzy rock-pop that’s equal parts testy grrrl rock and harmonious countrified-pop.

NEON ICON RiFF RAFF

(MAD DECENT) Diplo can’t save everyone, as proven by RiFF RAFF’s debut. We laughed at the opener, “Introducing The Icon”, cringed at the gawdful rock-rap “Kokyane” and sat through the rest, a lil’ amused but mostly unimpressed. Imagine a one-man, white Danny Brown + Iggy Azalea + Die Antwoord. He really is a neon icon, but only of prankster-rap, ’cos really, he is riff raff in the rap game.

REVERIE wyd:syd

(SELF-RELEASED) Only their sophomore EP, and already wyd:syd sounds polished. Formed in 2012, the quintet of Marcus, Ridhwan, Eugene, Aaron and Jared, has done the usual local band tour-of-duty (Home Club, Timbre, Baybeats, etc.), but their experience yields results. Sounding remarkably like Placebo and Ash, their blend of ambient + post-rock is a most pleasant joy to revel in.

ALVVAYS Alvvays

(POLYVINYL) If Camera Obscura and Best Coast are too fluffy and twee for you, then take a listen to this Nova Scotia fivepiece, Alvvays. Molly Rankin and her mates make indie-pop that crosses folk and literate rock (and synths on “Red Planet”). Heartfelt and immediate, the songs break no ground on the subject of love, but charm they do, especially on the earworm-y “Archie, Marry Me”.

TROUBLE IN PARADISE La Roux

(POLYDOR) The poofy-puffed haired princess of synth-pop, Elly Jackson, returns five years after her debut, but without Ben Langmaid in tow. Trouble In Paradise? Losing her partner Langmaid, and also her voice, were two major troubles in her garden. But surprise us Jackson does, sounding both assured and relaxed in this sweet punnet of similar and familiar synth-pop tunes.

LESE MAJESTY

Shabazz Palaces

(SUB POP) This is beyond hiphop as we know it. Ishmael “Butterfly” Butler (now known as Palaceer Lazaro) and Tendai “Baba” Maraire stretch the elasticity of hip-hop to its most avant-garde edges. Their debut, Black Up, was a taster for this outer-spaced sophomore journey, segueing from the hollowed-out dub of “Dawn In Luxor” to the futuristic-Egyptian track “They Come In Gold”.

WORLD PEACE IS NONE OF YOUR BUSINESS Morrissey

(CAPITOL) The world needs an aged erudite old fart with an opinion every now and then, hence Morrissey arises with a new album (and gets dropped by his label). Morrissey is sarcastic, morose, a real complaint queen really, but that’s why we love this miserablist mannered man. He still has bite and bile, but this time, the music is amped up with major flourish to keep up. Text Chris Ong Ujine Images Various Sources

JUNGLE Jungle

(XL) No longer masked by Internet anonymity, Josh Lloyd-Watson and Tom McFarland (formerly known as the mysterious J & T), now must stand by the slouchy, summertime pool disco they made their name on. These UK blokes shuffle shimmering synths, slinky beats and jazzy inflections into non-substantial smoothies of retro-futurist r&b that’s easy to slurp up.

Plastikman

(MUTE) It took the Guggenheim to make Richie Hawtin excavate his Plastikman moniker after a decade, and write an entire new album for its 2013 International Gala. Good that artsy seems to play a bigger part in his music making than party, since this seven-track album does feel more made for gallerists than club-kids. Minimal cerebral techno to accompany art appreciation, if anything.

LIMINAL The Acid

(MUTE) The Acid is actually Brit DJ Adam Freeland, L.A. producer Steve Nalepa, and Aussie singersongwriter Ry Cuming coming together to make shivery, minimal dub-electronic tracks. Cuming channels Thom Yorke over the jittering “Creeper”, the nature sounds incorporating “Tumbling Lights” and the lo-fi bedroom folk-tronics of “Animal”. An intriguing entry into the post-dubstep world.

WHILE (1<2)) DEADMAU5

(ASTRALWERKS) deadmau5 exclaims his stand against the current mainstreamed EDM situation with a two-disc set. The tortured artiste doth protest too much? Yes, since he made wads off his house-techno songs, but now embittered, he chucks in piano compositions like “Invidia” and “Superbia” to cause pause. A case of the mouse moving the cheese away to expand his repertoire.

KU DÉ TA FOURTH ANNIVERSARY: ENTER THE DRAGON

PARA//EL PRESENTS SCUBA FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 5 AT VELVET UNDERGROUND – DANCE

Don’t matter if you sink or swim on the dancefloor, this illustrious producer comes packed with an array of influences that will float your boat. Shaping his own career together with others like Paul Woolford and Joy Orbison on his Hot Flush label, Scuba’s sound has evolved from jungle and dubstep, to his house and techno preferences of today. We call dibs on this dip. zoukclub.com.sg

NOISE SINGAPORE: THE MUSIC MENTORSHIP CONCERTS

MIXMAG ASIA LAUNCH SERIES FEAT. DJ EZ

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 12 TO SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 14 AT ESPLANADE

Y’all know we show our love each month to local musicians emerging from Noise Singapore’s mentorship programme (page 31), and this is where you can see what all the hullabaloo is about. Singer-songwriters, alt-rock bands, and indie outfits who’re already household names like Take Two and Ellipsis; they’ll be taking over Esplanade’s Outdoor Theatre and Concourse with big dreams and the tunes of tomorrow. noisesingapore.com

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 12 AT CANVAS SINGAPORE

Aficionados of UK garage will definitely have something to say about this reputable pioneer, considering he’s been milking the genre for over 15 years. Get geared up for a UKG education – from syncopated two-step to low-end boosted bassline – mixed with an unpredictable salvo of grime, jungle and even house. There are masters of their craft, and then there’s DJ EZ. canvasvenue.sg

FULL STEAM AHEAD

SUNDAY AT THE TRAINING SHED SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 21 AT THE TRAINING SHED

GIGS WE DIG

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 13 AT TANJONG BEACH CLUB

SPIN

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 12 AT KU DÉ TA

Has it really been four years already? Well you better believe it, and this lavish skyscraping establishment is making it official with a Hong Kong film-themed party, acknowledging its new branch opening in our favourite land of dim sum. Joining KU DÉ TA’s residents will be San Francisco decksmith, DJ Earworm, and his mash-upped repertoire of pop/ house anthems. Bruce Lee would be proud. kudeta.com

TBC’s seasonal beach bonanza is back with more moon-gazing festivities, with a staggering 12-hour music line-up that’ll have you somersaulting in the 50 sand. From 4pm to 4am, brace yourselves for the eclectic sets of Jon White, Maniam, Kenneth Francis, KFC, Seng Wei, Tyler Made, Stephen Day and headlining heavyweight, Aldrin. Pace yourselves sensibly if you wanna come aboard this ride! tanjongbeachclub.com

Don’t dread the crushing blow of discontent that is Monday, just layer some icing on your weekend with this all-day al fresco gathering. Part-picnic part-party, you can pamper yourself with some ale and bratwurst while swaying to the chilled-out soundtrack with your newfound pals. Acts include Sideshow’s own Tom Shellsuit, and London hip-hop emcee, Mystro, and his tight ad-lib deliveries. sideshow.sg

LIT UP 2014

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 26 TO SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 28 AT ALIWAL ARTS CENTRE

Brightly returning to the scene for its sixth edition, this multi-disciplinary arts festival weaves through dimensions and perspectives with its theme of choice, “Walk The Equator”. Besides breaking the fourth wall with puppetry, pantomime and improv showcases, Lit Up also promises spoken word gigs from Sekaliwags and Party Action People, and illuminating melodies from MONSTER CAT, Seyra, and Fungkimunkees. litup.sg

VELVET UNDERGROUND 20TH ANNIVERSARY – HOTEL TWENTY WITH GEORGE FITZGERALD

SYNDICATE X RED BULL MUSIC ACADEMY TAKEOVER SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27 AT KYO

No one throws a show like audio-visual collective Syndicate, and they’re roping in norm-bending virtuosos from Tokyo and London. Throwing Snow is an avant-garde whiz known for his innovative application of dubstep, d&b and juke to pop-slanted vocals; while Japan’s Sauce81 is a whole ’nother genius altogether, splicing neo-soul and funk with shades of chill-wave and techno. Even we think it’s nuts. clubkyo.com

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 27 AT VELVET UNDERGROUND – DANCE

ILLUMI NATION

SATURDAY OCTOBER 11 AT SILOSO BEACH

As much as big-room anthems light our senses on fire, we too enjoy simmering down with the left-field joys of house, techno, garage and everything in between, all to be found within the halls of Velvet. And to commemorate its past two decades, Berlin-based Briton, George Fitzgerald, will be ringing in the big 2-0 with his mellow yet magnetic take on house music zoukclub.com.sg

Text Kevin Ho Images Various Sources

Warning: you won’t wanna wear your finest dresses and suits for this raucously messy affair, unless you don’t mind getting super-soaked with splotches of technicolour paint that is! Making its debut in Asia, this glow-in-the-dark celebration will be scattering rainbows across the Sentosa shoreline, with a high-voltage progressive/electro-house soundtrack provided by EDM icons, Bingo Players (RIP Paul Bäumer), Dada Life and Martin Solveig. illumination.asia

FASHION READY, SET, GO! Strange things happen when a woman falls in love with a pair of shoes. The heart starts pumping, eyes widen with excitement and squeals of glee can be heard from miles away. And you can expect that to go up a couple o’ notches when one spots goodies from Charlotte Olympia. Sending yet another adrenalineinducing rush our way, the British designer’s created a limited-edition line inspired by vintage sports cars and the Formula 1 Grand Prix. Titled ‘Faster’, shoes, quirky handbags and neat clutches feature automotive and racing motifs, revved up with silver and gold accents to have you looking like you were made for the tracks.

Available exclusively at On Pedder.

Text Liyana Meer Images On Pedder

CHAPTER ONE

FASHION SCHOOL. THAT GLORIFIED INSTITUTION THAT PEDDLES OUT ASPIRING GRADUATES DREAMING TO CONQUER THE BIG WORLD OF FASHION. BUT IS FORMAL TRAINING REALLY NECESSARY FOR SUCCESS? WE INVESTIGATE SOME OF THE BIGGEST NAMES FASHION HAS EVER SEEN AND UNCOVER JUST WHAT THESE BIG-WIGS DID TO LEAD TO THEIR TRAIL-BLAZING FASHION CAREERS. REI KAWABUKO

FEATURE

Ask anyone working in fashion which designer they admire, chances are the revolutionary Rei Kawabuko of Comme des Garcons makes the list. As a bright-eyed lass, she studied fine art and literature at Tokyo’s Keio University and upon graduation took an advertising job in a textile factory. Evidently inspired by garments, she then went on to explore the realm of fashion as a freelance fashion stylist. However, she soon became critical of the selection of apparels in Japan and decided to make her own line of clothes under the label Comme des Garcons in 1973. The Japanese designer looked to masculine silhouettes, street culture and her own heritage for inspiration. And while other designers were layering and draping, Kawabuko was cutting, shredding and twisting her designs, which led to her rep of being a designer who was “one-step-further in fashion”, as quoted by Vogue.

TOM FORD

Born in Texas with style in his blood, American designer Tom Ford has become one of today’s most influential fashion designers – famed for revamping Gucci’s image by replacing the minimalism traits of the brand in the early ’90s with his highly sexualised take on ‘60s and ‘70s silhouettes. During his teenage years, Ford majored in art history, pursued acting for television commercials and enrolled for a degree in interior architecture at Parsons School Of Design. After a spontaneous decision to switch to fashion, Ford talked his way into his first design job and in a few years, took command of Gucci and later Yves Saint Laurent before moving on to start his own namesake label. His sense of proportion and simple clean lines is a striking manifestation of his studies in architecture, that has developed into a signature design aesthetic as seen on all his razor-sharp men’s suits and slinky womenswear.

ELSA SCHIAPARELLI

“Had I not by pure chance become a maker of dresses, I could have become a sculptor,” claimed Elsa Schiaparelli in an interview with Vanity Fair in the ‘30s. And by that statement alone, it’s suffice to say that Schiaparelli was born to be an artist. Albeit from a conservative family in Italy, she was predominantly a non-conformist and did many things that shocked her folks, like publishing a book of overtly sensual poems. Schiaparelli studied philosophy at the University Of Rome and while leading a refined life, she felt stifled and left for the Big Apple, and then to Paris to combine her love of art and design by becoming a couturier. The Italian belle brought fantasies to life through clothing and soon carved a name for bringing colour and flavour to couture – jazzing up subdued browns, blacks and grays during the Depression years with striking hues. With a legacy of breathtaking works, Schiaparelli still remains one of the most unconventional designers to this day.

RAF SIMONS MIUCCIA PRADA

Miuccia Prada’s powerful ability to make the familiar seem totally opposite is distinctly iconic and on-point, season after season. For someone who was an unlikely heir to her family’s fashion empire, Prada transformed the modest leather goods house into one of fashion’s ready-to-wear powerhouses. But the road to success was something that critics and fashion insiders were sceptical about. A former member of the Italian Communist Party (yes she’s a tough one), Prada earned her PhD in political science at the University Of Milan and was famous as an ardent feminist in campus. Thereafter, she planted herself at Milan’s Piccolo Teatro, where she trained as a mime for five years before entering the family business and producing a line of black waterproof nylon backpacks that sparked a worldwide craze. Prada’s triumphs today are as tied to her natural instincts as they are to her intelligence – applying philosophical, political and feminist filters to everything she does.

Like most adolescents, Raf Simons spent his youth obsessing over rock bands. Little did he know that as an adult, he would one day start his namesake fashion label and become creative director at Dior. Before turning to fashion though, Simons had studied industrial and furniture design at a university in Genk, and interned at Walter van Beirendock’s design studio. It was also during this time that the edgy Belgian fashion designer took Simons to catch his first Martin Margiela show in Paris. Obviously besotted with fashion ever since, Simons’ approach to his line is largely by the early moments of teenage angst and expressive rebellion. His background in furniture design further proved to be a perfect fit – as he balances notoriously clean, ultra-modern tailoring with youthful, energetic references that are quietly stitched throughout all his creations.

VIVIENNE WESTWOOD

Fashion’s grand dame Vivienne Westwood was at the epicentre of the anarchic punk movement in the late ’70s and together with Sex Pistols’ manager Malcolm McLaren, she created successive waves of one of the most iconic youth movements to date. At 17, Westwood’s family moved to London where the flame-haired inginue majored in dressmaking because all she wanted was to make beautiful clothes. She left school after a month however, citing that “It didn’t teach me how to make clothes. They just wanted us to sit there and do drawing” in an interview with Dazed & Confused. She eventually studied at a teacher-training college where she became a primary school teacher and began creating and selling her own jewellery line. There, she met McLaren and was introduced to a new world of creative freedom and realised the power art had on the political landscape. Working together, the self-taught designer outfitted the first few English punks of that time in bondage pants and latex. This signature aesthetic eventually put her on the fashion map as a designer who reinvented and radicalised fashion for decades to come.

CHRISTIAN LACROIX

Poignant, extravagant and theatrical – these are the words to describe the creations of the white knight of modern-day couture, Christian Lacroix. In his early childhood, this impressionable French boy showed a flair for design through his sketches of historical costumes and the photo albums he put together on theatre and opera. Intrigued by decadent eras of the past, Lacroix pursued a degree in the history of art and went on to write a thesis on 17th century French costumes, setting him on the path to fulfill his museum curator ambition. After he met his wife, who recognised and encouraged his talents, he embarked on an adventure in fashion design – rolling out wildly elegant and fantastical creations in fabrics that plunge the wearer into a dream-like world. A fashion impresario, Lacroix’s natural wonder and fascination with theatre is a reigning signature that inspired many of his collections and runway stage designs.

Text Liyana Meer Images Various Sources

GOTTA HAVE IT

FOCUS LABEL

UNIQLO FALL/ WINTER 2014 COLLECTION

Put music, art and Uniqlo together and you’ll have a quick list of some of our . Always flaunting its flair for fashion with function, favourite things here at Uniqlo has been committed through the years, bringing refreshingly practical threads to savvy stylephiles. Drawing from a variety of modern technologies and ongoing collabs with various producers, Uniqlo seamlessly blends the essence of welldesigned and high-quality apparel to create balanced, comfy pieces that suit all lifestyle needs. This season, the brand makes further refinements to its fabrication, highlighting the inherent mileage of natural materials. The all-encompassing series includes outerwear like parkas, from its Ultra Light Down series; and coats with a new hightech fleece material – from its signature Heattech line that features innerwear with infused camellia oil, enhanced softness and stretchability. While we’re spoilt for choice with all this goodness, we can’t take our eyes off these two lines from the set.

DENIM LINE Each season, Uniqlo goes back to the drawing room to come up with the perfect denim formula; constantly pushing out innovations that trump the previous. Its latest offerings are enhanced with more stretchable materials and fits that are soft and snug. Featuring authentic denim in a variety of designs and colourways, this crop of goodies has a little bit of everything. The men’s line sees the slim-fit selvedge denim silhouette get fitted with a newly-developed stretch fabric from Kaihara Co. Ltd, Japan’s leading textile company; while the women’s Ultra Stretch Jeans series incorporates lyocell fibres in powder soft denim that hugs the gams like second skin. From $49.90 to $59.90.

UT RANGE While tales of the brand’s soft cashmeres and denim have not been exaggerated, cool kids know Uniqlo as a source for all kinds of go-to basics, especially the UT range. Under the meticulous eye of creative director Nigo, the second collection from the street fashion icon focuses on sweatshirts that feature improved materials and graphics from the worlds of art, music, and pop culture. Collaborators include big names like Pharrell Williams, Coca Cola, Lulu Guinness and many more. Get acquainted with these eclectic collectables that you’ll be living in this coming season. From $14.90 to $24.90.

uniqlo.com.sg

Both the Denim Line and UT Range collections are available at all Uniqlo stores. Text Liyana Meer Images Uniqlo

FOCUS LABEL

BIMBA Y LOLA FALL/WINTER 2014

CAST A SPELL Spanish-based label, Bimba Y Lola makes clothes for playful and dynamic women, and sure enough, sisters Maria and Uxia Dominguez (nieces to uncle Adolfo Dominguez) have nurtured the brand with their own personal design aesthetic. Making it a family affair, the label was named after the Dominguez’s pet dogs, Bimba and Lola, adopting a charismatic greyhound motif as the logo. Since its inception in 2005, Maria and Uxia have kept fashion insiders at the edge of their seats with their fresh and youthful brand identity that’s equal parts edgy, feminine and sweet. Having established a loyal following comprising working women between the ages of 25 to 45, Bimba Y Lola’s portfolio includes a curation of apparels, bags, accessories, and footwear. Successfully retaining the arresting prints synonymous with the brand, its 2014 Fall/Winter edition has turned out to be an effervescent collective of season-appropriate apparels. Centred around the concept of magic and mythical animals, the key source of inspiration is derived from the dark times of the medieval era. Titled ‘This Is Legend’, the allure of the collection is heavily seduced by female protagonists from warriors,

delicate princesses, to witches, and translated into layers of wool jumpers, velvet dresses, long coats and printed skirts with delicate hints of embroidery. Elsewhere in the collection, Bimba Y Lola further explores bold motifs, an iconic design element of the label, and pairs conservative and mysterious silhouettes with a canvas of sharp lines and quirky female illustrations. Silk scarves, chunky accessories in gold and jewel tones, leather bags and sturdy footwear dominate the entire line, making it a fitting tribute to the strong and brave modern-day female. In a world where fashion and design reflect the wearer’s character and personality, Bimba Y Lola presents itself as a brand that caters to the tenacious females of the century, and is reprising its role as one of the leading contemporary womenswear labels in Spain and the world over.

Priced from $45, the Bimba Y Lola Fall/Winter 2014 collection is available at #B1-04 ION Orchard and #B2-100A The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands.

Text Liyana Meer Images Bimba Y Lola

Stussy Chapter Store 313@somerset, #04-30 313 Orchard Road T: 62387028

Stussy Shop In Shop Bugis Junction, 200 Victoria St, #03-12B Singapore 188021 Tel: 63334918

Stussy @ Playlab Tangs vivocity, 1 Harbourfront Walk #01-187 & #02-189 T: 63038688

Stussy @ Playlab Tangs Orchard 310 Orchard Road T: 6737 5500

Online Zalora singapore www.zalora.sg/stussy

Stussy Shop In Shop Black Chamber 8 Grange Road #03-03 Cathay Cineleisure Orchard T: 62355738

Limited Edt Queensway Queensway Shopping Centre #01-21 T: 64763835

Limited Edt Chamber The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands 2 bayfront Avenue #B2-112 T: 66887012

Limited Edition Vault 50 Jurong Gateway Road, #03-49 T: 67348096

Online Black Chamber Webstore shop.theblackchamber.com

JAN WEARS MESH TOP DESOUL DENIM VEST BERSHKA LEATHER PANTS H&M BRACELET FOREVER21 SHOES JEREMY SCOTT X ADIDAS AT LIMITED EDT CHAMBER KARSYN WEARS BEADED DRESS (WORN UNDERNEATH) H&M FAUX LEATHER TUBE DRESS STYLENANDA AT I.T SHOES JEFFREY CAMPBELL AT PVS BRACELET STRADIVARIUS

AND A TOUCH OF CHROME DEFINE THE NEW SEASON.

COOL INTENTIONS

RAW DENIM, HARDY SEPARATES

PHOTOGRAPHY TECK / LUMINA PHOTOGRAPHY PHOTOGRAPHY ASSISTANTS BURTON TANG & LI WENG FUNG ART DIRECTION JAZMIN KELLY SIX STYLING LIYANA MEER STYLING ASSISTANT LING TAY MAKEUP MICH MAKEOVER USING BURBERRY BEAUTY HAIR DEN NG / TURNSTYLES HAIR DESIGN MODELS KARSYN B & JAN H BOTH FROM AVE SPECIAL THANKS TO KHL PRINTING

DENIM VEST FINGERCROXX AT I.T COTTON TANK TOP (WORN UNDERNEATH) ZADIG & VOLTAIRE AT ROBINSONS ORCHARD COTTON BRALET II MONKII BOOTS DR.MARTENS LEATHER CUFF INCH CHILD AT SECTS SHOP SILVER RING KTZ AT LEFTFOOT ENTREPOT

RAIN COAT PULL & BEAR COTTON T-SHIRT SUGARPILLS AT SECTS SHOP DENIM BERMUDAS TOPMAN BOOTS DR. MARTENS WALLET CHAIN 77TH STREET

COTTTON TANK TOP TOPMAN HAREM PANTS DESOUL LEATHER BOOTS RED WING NECKLACE 77TH STREET LEATHER BRACELET INCH CHILD AT SECTS SHOP

DENIM OVERALLS TRUE RELIGION DENIM JACKET TOPSHOP BOOTS H&M NECKLACE STRADIVARIUS CHAIN BRACELETS FOREVER 21

SPICE RACK

POSSIBLY INSPIRED BY THE CHANGING COLOUR OF AUTUMNAL LEAVES, SHADES OF WARM YELLOW CONSISTENTLY MAKE A COMEBACK EVERY FALL/WINTER SEASON. OFFERING A FRESH TAKE ON WINTER WARDROBES, THE MUSTARD HUE IS A SUBTLER ALTERNATIVE TO THE SCREAMING YOLK YELLOW, YET HALF AS MOODY AS SULLEN BROWNS. FOR A LOOK THAT’S STYLISHLY ON-POINT, WEAR THIS SHADE WITH PATENT NEUTRALS OR MIX IT UP WITH PRINTED SEPARATES.

leather coin purse, $29, baggu at rockstar by soon lee

polyurethane crossbody bag, $74.26, asos.com

MATCH

WARDROBE

carven fall/winter 2014

leather tote bag, £215, kate sheridan at independentboutique.com

chiffon top, $29, editor’s market hall

cotton scarf, poa, bimba y lola

brass necklace, $15, priscillama.com | brass necklace, poa, colette by colette hayman | beads & brass necklace, poa, pull & bear

acetate sunglasses, $19, talisman

straw hat, $59, vans

satin headband, ÂŁ360, maryam keyhani at valerydemure.com

leather bracelet, $5.90, func deko

cotton dress, $49, forever 21 wool blazer, poa, zara

viscose blouse, $39.90, h&m

cotton skirt, $39.90, stradivarius

suede boots, $269, jeffrey campbell at pvs

cotton top, $27, forever 21 acetate shorts, poa, carven

angora & cotton jumper dress, $96, topshop wool-blend tapered pants, ÂŁ295, issa at thefashion.com

brass necklace, $29, mannequeen | copper necklace, poa, cotton on | brass necklace, $15, forever 21 Text & Coordination Liyana Meer

calvin klein fall/winter 2014

RUN WILD

wool blend beanie, $15, freedom

cotton t-shirt, $23.90, celio

canvas & leather bag, $399, seventy eight percent at cumulus

MATCH

WARDROBE

SAFARI INFLUENCES CONTINUE TO FIND GROUND IN THE CHANGING SEASONS, TAKING ON A DEEPER PATH AS WE TRANSITION INTO FALL. LEADING THE WAY ARE EARTHY TONES LIKE ARMY GREENS AND FOREST BROWNS, THAT FUSE ELEMENTS OF THE WILD FOR A LOOK THAT CALLS TO MIND RUGGED ADVENTURES IN THE GREAT OUTDOORS.

leather purse, $25.90, bershka

canvas boots, poa, palladium | canvas suede boots, $149, toms | suede leather boots, poa, timberland

cotton t-shirt, $45.90, zara

resin sunglasses, $39.90, pull & bear

cotton t-shirt, $24.90, h&m

faux suede gore-tex jacket, poa, musto cotton cargo pants, $59.90, h&m cargo pants, $29.90, uniqlo

knitted pullover, poa, pull & bear leather wallet, $54.46, souled out at asos.com

synthetic belt, $14.90, ezra by zalora mixed leather backpack, $1050, coach

buckled nato watch, poa, luminox at tangs orchard

wool pullover, poa, cos

cargo bermudas, $149, sifr at rockstar by soon lee

cargo pants, $129, desoul

canvas boots, $37, ruko.com | leather boots, poa, diesel | canvas boots, $99, jack & jones Text & Coordination Liyana Meer

SHOP

GET IN SHAPE THE FALL SEASON IS TYPICALLY SOMBRE AND DARK BUT THERE’S NO STOPPING US FROM ADDING A DASH OF COLOUR AND QUIRK TO OUR ENSEMBLES. THIS MONTH, WE’RE AMPING UP OUR GAME WITH FUN-SHAPED CROSS-BODIES THAT ARE DECEPTIVELY ROOMY AND CUTE TO BOOT!

Text & Coordination Liyana Meer

HILDA SANDSTRÖM WHEN WE THINK SWEDISH ANYTHING, “LESS IS MORE” COMES TO MIND. AFTER ALL, SWEDES ARE KNOWN FOR THEIR PRACTICAL STYLE AND MODERN AESTHETICS. LEADING THE PACK IS HILDA SANDSTRÖM, STYLIST AND EDITOR-IN-CHIEF OF SWEDEN’S LEADING ONLINE FASHION SITE, PROJECTION.SE. HAVING BEEN FRONT AND CENTRE AT FASHION WEEKS ALL OVER, SHE CARRIES HERSELF WITH A FIERCE AURA OF INDEPENDENCE – WHILE DRESSED IN CLEAN SILHOUETTES AND DISCRETE COLOURS, ALL PARED-DOWN FOR THAT REFINED LOOK. 3

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WARDROBE ICON

8 9

[clockwise] 1. fine knit beanie, $23, topshop | 2. metal bracelet watch, $329, karl lagerfeld at watch station international | 3. brass chain ear cuff, $21.60, cheap monday at zalora.sg | 4. acetate sunglasses $440, miu miu | 5. tweed jacket, poa, myth | 6. studded ankle boots, poa, alexander mcqueen at on pedder | 7. sequin clutch, poa, accessorize | 8. rubber pumps, 369, united nude at sole2sole.sg | 9. polyester trousers, $46, dorothy perkins | 10. stretch-silk crepe shirt, poa, dkny

Text & Coordination Liyana Meer

PICK: UNITED NUDE FW14 COLLECTION

AT THE RACES

Who says fall is boring? Combining modern sensibility with look-at-me construction details, the latest collection of heels, flats and boots from United Nude promises comfort and high wearability; guaranteed to turn heads and earn you generous nods of approval. Available at sole2sole.sg.

STREET ROYALTY

PUMA MOTORSPORTS FW14 COLLECTION Teaming up with automotive giants like Mercedes AMG Petronas, Ferrari and BMW, the sports brand rolls out three collections of apparel, accessories and shoes – each boasting a distinctive look with contemporary design influences. Pops of bright primary hues are set against smart black silhouettes, fusing perfectly with engineered aesthetics to portray the technicality of speed and movement at the tracks. Available at all PUMA stores.

HOT STEPPERS

Heads up sneaker seekers! Here’s the latest crop of shoes that’ll take you seamlessly from the gym to the streets in style.

Sending us to the front of fall with a new wardrobe is king of the streets, Stussy, with collections for both genders that reflect its heritage – from classic iconography to athletic pieces. Boys can expect three categories in the new seasonal line-up like the Stussy Classic, which draws references from sportswear; LB, a reference to the city of Long Beach including jackets and accessories; and Lux, a tasteful series that showcases the brand’s sophisticated side. Girls too can look forward to streetwear staples, plus sweatshirts, sweaters and jackets with luxe detailing. From $15, available at Black Chamber.

NYJAH VULC SHOES Professional skateboarder Nyjah Huston teams up with DC Shoes to unveil a new silhouette that’s padded for maximum comfort, featuring abrasion-resistant outsoles for skaters to achieve that perfect board grip. $129 to $149, available at all DC stores. We have a pair up for grabs! Send your name, NRIC, and contact no. to grabs@juice.com.sg to win!

NIKE AIR MAX LUNAR 1 Combining the technology of performance from Nike Air Max and cushioning from Nike Lunarlon, this new model is created with an innovative no-sew construction ensuring maximum performance. $219, available at selected Nike Sportswear retailers.

REEBOK CROSSFIT NANO 4.0 With its new Duracage upper made from polyurethane for flexibility and protection, the shoe aids lateral stability, offering better grip and traction for enhanced performance. $169, available at Stadium at Takashimaya Shopping Centre and other authorised retailers.

FLASH: FASHION

PORSCHE DESIGN x CHESTER BENNINGTON Sure we know Linkin Park’s Chester Bennington for his powerfully raspy pipes but the alt-rock frontman is moving away from the mic into a design studio. Created for the Porsche Design customer who’s looking for a sleek ensemble infused with a little bit of edge, Benington’s rebel rock star qualities are reflected in the fashion collection – which includes limited edition t-shirts and jacket, coated denim jeans, and a calfskin bag. Available at Porsche Design flagship store at Marina Bay Sands.

LIFE IN LEVI’S

Levi’s rolls out its latest campaign celebrating the things people do when wearing their favourite denim. Counting Sleigh Bells’ frontgal Alexis Krauss and music producer Philippe Zda as fans, the stories unfold in a social film, which sees contemporary influencers from various fields share their inspirations in life. Here at home, three creative personalities who elaborate more by customising the iconic 501 jeans.

LIGHT UP

FLASH: FASHION

If it’s cool enough for James Dean, it’s cool enough for us. The purveyor of ultra-hip sunnies, Ray-Ban helped defined effortlessly chic from way back when, which is why the new Iridescence collection is so on-point. Inspired by the versatility of summer, the line takes the much-loved Wayfarers silhouette and adds on lenses made of silica micro-crystals, with highly refractive metal oxides that produce various shades creating a fluid finish. $350, available at Capitol Optical.

Jerry Goh Creative Director at Hjgher Jerry includes two components into the 501 jeans – creation and experience to produce silhouettes that tell the story of his love for chance encounters and his precious French bulldog, Kiki.

Jacky Lee Filmmaker

Tan Zixi (AKA Messymsxi) Independent illustrator

Enamoured by film and music, Jacky uses colourful patches and accents inspired by the iconic Levi’s Mr Boombastic and the fond memories of his years in Melbourne.

Drawing inspiration from her personal quirk of drying her wet hands on clothes, she explores textures and patterns of hand movements on denim with multi-coloured paints.

CHECK OUT THESE NEW STORES IN TOWN! 72

Maison Martin Margiela #B1-10 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Repetto #01-13/14 The Shoppes at Marina Bay Sands

Workshop Element #03-01/02 at 313@Somerset

CARTOON NETWORK TOKIDOKI X LESPORTSAC

GOT A TASTE FOR WASTE? Surely all that recycling of plastic bottles had to go to good use, dunnit? G-Star shows us how with its RAW for the Oceans range of apparels that are, well, made from the very material. Teaming up with organisations like Bionic Yarn, The Vortex Project, and Parley for the Oceans – all of which aim to preserve our oceans and promote environmental responsibilities – the collection ranges from caps to trench coats made from high-performance eco-thread fibres. You should know too that Pharrell curated the collection – brownie points for making us happy! From $99, available at G-Star.

With previous successful collabs under their belt, these two reunite this season to roll out an eye-popping, criminally cute 19-piece collection with new styles and fabrications - featuring Palette, the latest character created by Tokidoki’s Simone Legno. Available at all LeSportsac stores.

SNOOPY & BELLE Donned in Dsquared2’s trademark styles, Snoopy and his sister Belle are stars of a charity initiative raising funds for numerous causes. ‘Snoopy & Belle In Fashion’ will see a big exhibition held at New York’s New Museum Of Contemporary Art, where designer sketches and vinyl beagle dolls dating back to the ’80s will be displayed in commemoration of the brand’s 65th anniversary. dsquared.com

Text Ling Tay & Liyana Meer Images Various Sources

NEW WORLD ORDER

MADE UP

Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s old world glamour meets new age beauty in a collision of stark graphic lines, bold hues and retro waves this season at Zac Posen. Romantic swirls were given a contemporary update, held stylishly in place with black bobby pins, transforming the mane into a fluid piece of art. Adding to the visage a playful edge, makeup artist Kabuki further elevates the look with artful sweeps of black ink across the eyes, set against flawless dewy skin and a well-defined pout, resulting in a punk geisha finish thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s equal parts traditional and modern.

Text Jazmin Kelly Six Image M.A.C. Cosmetics for Zac Posen FW14

10 FALL Beauty

trends we love A ROUND-UP OF THE TOP LOOKS THIS SEASON.

TRUE BLOOD

PRECIOUS METALS

Dark, sexy and all-round bad-*ss, the burgundy hue is a grown-up alternative to summer’s cherry red.

From iridescent pewter to gilded gold, shine on with flecks of glitter and touches of shimmer.

FEATURE

Nail Polish in Chinatown, $30, NARS

Lip Lover in Bourdeaux Tempo, $40, Lancome

Pro Single Shadow in P016 Wild Thing, $13.90, Clio

rodarte fw14

donna karan fw14

Nail Lacquer in Opal, $13, Crabtree & Evelyn

Limited-Edition LipSurgence Matte Lip Tint in Envy, $36, Tarte at Sephora

TAKE A BROW

Eyeliner Baby Doll in Vinyl Grey, $38, YSL Beaute

LASH OUT

Playful yet sophisticated, bring colour from the eyes up for a touch of quirky glamour.

Ain’t nothing tame about this season’s flutters – from Twiggy-like and clumpy to drawn-on lower strands. Volume Glamour Push Up Mascara, $22, Bourjois

Twinkle Pop Eye Stick in Shoshanna, $39, Marc Jacobs Beauty at Sephora

edeline lee fw14

maxime simoens fw14

Slim Eye/Eyebrow Pencil in 924 Yellow, poa, NYX Cosmetics at Sephora Perversion False Lashes in Trap, $20, Urban Decay at Sephora Play 101 Pencil in 20, $12, Etude House

Better Than Sex Mascara, $32, Too Faced at Sephora

GENTLE REBEL

PURPLE REIGN

Fall’s take on punk unveils a fresher, cleaner visage, complete with slept-in PEEPERS.

Also Pantone’s ‘Colour Of The Year 2014’, orchid continues to charm, be it on the eyes, lips, or nails.

Water Drop Tint in Orchid Violet, $30, Laneige Making Eyes Automatic Gel Eyeliner in Pitch Black, $25, Eyeko at Sephora chloe fw14

Gel Eyeliner in 200, $33, Anna Sui

topshop unique fw14

Colour 5 Palette in No.3 Flirty To Intense Purple, $36, Sephora

Contour Clubbing Waterproof in 57, $15.80, Bourjois

Gelpresso Waterproof Pencil Gel Liner in Golden Black, $18.90, Clio

DRAW THE LINE

GLOW GETTER Fresh, clean skin with a touch of flush. Enough said.

Smooth Liquid Eyeliner in Jet Black, $18.90, Heroine Make

Graphic accents continue to give lined EYES a style boost, with multi-shaped arrows and a touch of colour.

Light Glow Earthy Blush in No 4, $61, Burberry Beauty

Quick Eyeliner A, $17, Kate mara hoffman fw14

gareth pugh fw14

Teint Miracle Bare Skin Foundation, $66, Lancôme

INTO THE BLUE Indigo, cobalt and navy took centrestage this season in the forms of graphic liners and smokey shadows.

Ink Liner, $38, Make Up For Ever at Sephora (available from Sep 18)

All Day Luminous Powder Foundation in Siberia, poa, NARS (available from Oct)

Gel Effect in Old Bond Street, $26, Nails Inc at Sephora

Colourful Mono Eyeshadow with Mirror Effect in Planet Earth, $19, Sephora

MILITARY COUP Command attention with olive green-swept eyes that’s both regal and chic.

Smudge Stick Waterproof Eye Liner in Midnight Green, $28, Stila at Sephora

kenzo fw14 Velvet Eyeshadow Waterproof 16HR in Satin Navy, $22, Sephora

Complete Eye Palette in Slate Blue, $85, Burberry Beauty

Text Jazmin Kelly Six Images Various Sources

derek lam fw14 Vision Of Beauty Eyeshadow Palette in Green, $98, Shu Uemura

FINISHING LINE MARCHING INTO THE NEW SEASON WITH A WHOLE LOTTA FUN AND A TAD MORE ’TUDE, FALL’S TAKE ON THE ACCENTED EYE TREND HAS US GETTING CRAFTY WITH THESE LATEST EYELINERS.

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Ecriture De Chanel Eyeliner Pen in 10 Noir, $48, Chanel Graphic Liner Vinyl Pen Eyeliner, $42, Make Up For Ever at Sephora (available from Sep 18)

Highliner Gel Eye Crayon in Blacquer, $36, Marc Jacobs Beauty at Sephora

Night Series Eyeliner in Night Clubbing, $36, NARS

Bulletproof 24 Hour Shadow Liner in Black Out, $32, Too Faced at Sephora

All Nighter Eyeliner in Perversion, $30, Urban Decay at Sephora

Visual Eyes Liquid Eyeliner in Ebony, $25, Eyeko at Sephora

Precision Eyeliner, $17.90, Browhaus

Play 101 Pencil in #1, $12, Etude House

10 11 12

Waterproof Pen Liner in Kill Black, $22.90, Clio at Watsons 1 Day Magic Liquid Eyeliner in Super Black, $22.90, K-Palette

Text Jazmin Kelly Six Images Various Sources

Lights, Camera, Lashes Precision Longwear Eyeliner in Black, $30, Tarte at Sephora

The VS Regional Pink Angel Competition Finals will be held in Taiwan in 2014!

Join Now

to become the Next

How to participate: 1) Like our facebook page at ‘Vidal Sassoon Singapore’ 2) Send us your before-and-after photos showcasing the creative hairstyles you’ve achieved using the VS Pink / iPink Series Tools. 3) Get your friends to vote! vidal sassoon singapore

The top eight participants with the highest number of votes for their photo entries will not only win Vidal Sasson products, but also get to represent the country in the VS Regional Pink Angel singapore Competition and vidal win sassoon the grand prize! Stay tuned to find out how you can win tickets to the finals at Zouk on 8 November 2014. Deadline: 15 October 2014 (Please visit the ‘Vidal Sassoon Singapore’ Facebook Page for more details!)

VSI3270PIH

VS2810PH

KARLIE KLOSS LOOKING AU NATUREL IS THE NEW GORGEOUS THESE DAYS, AND WHO CAN PULL IT OFF BETTER THAN KARLIE KLOSS? WITH FLAWLESS SKIN AND BARELY-THERE MAKEUP, THE VICTORIA’S SECRET ANGEL RADIATES PERPETUAL SUNSHINE WITH AN EFFORTLESS STYLE. WORKING ’EM SOFT RUSSET BROWN LOCKS THAT FALL ALONG HER PROMINENT TO-DIE-FOR JAWLINE, IT’S SAFE TO SAY THAT KLOSS’ NEW BOB LEAVES ITS FAMOUS ALEXA COUNTERPART IN THE DUST. AND WITH JUST ENOUGH SHINE ON THOSE PETAL GOLD LIPS, THE 22-YEAR-OLD PROVES SHE’S INDEED GOT THIS CLEAN, CHIC LOOK IN THE BAG. 2 10 1

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MADE UP ICON

[clockwise] 1. Convertible Colour Dual Lip & Cheek Cream Shade Extensions in Magnolia, $35, Stila at Sephora | 2. Outrageous Rouge Extreme Liquid Lipstick in Rose Seduction, $24, Sephora | 3. La Base Pro Hydra Glow, $68, Lancome | 4. Perversion Mascara, $38, Urban Decay at Sephora | 5. Lightbulb Oleo-Pack, $75, Shu Uemura | 6. Matte Shiny Eye Pencil in 03 Burgundy, $65, RMK | 7. Hair Oil, $26.90, Tsubaki at Watsons (available from Sep 11) | 8. Prime Style Extender Spray, $26, Living Proof at Sephora | 9. Sourcil Precision Pencil in 04 Blond Fonce, $15.80, Bourjois | 10. Visual Eyes Liquid Eyeliner in Ebony, $25, Eyeko at Sephora

Text Ling Tay Coordination Jazmin Kelly Six

WATCH: “HOW THE SUN SEES YOU” Baz Luhrmann’s made a song out of it back in ’98 but if you’re still unconvinced of just how crucial sunscreen is to our skin, watch this three-minute footage by New York-based artist Thomas Leveritt – who uses a UV motion camera to show passers-by the instant protective effects of sunscreen.

USE THIS

NARS TURNS 20

LIP SAVERS MENTHOLATUM LIP PURE HONEY Three properties that make this a winner: 100 per cent food grade Manuka honey to soothe and heal chapped skin; anti-ageing royal jelly to reduce fine lines on lips; and hydrating beeswax to plump and condition. $7.90, available at Watsons, Guardian and selected supermarkets.

FRESH SUGAR TULIP TINTED LIP We love this SPF 15 formula for its super emollient and hydrating feel, thanks to its moisturising sugar and rich fatty acid ingredients. The pretty shade of fuchsia is also an added plus, going from sheer to loud in three coats. $33, available at Sephora.

ACT ON IT

You may think acne is caused by a build-up of dirt and grime but while that is true, we also have another culprit to blame: dehydrated pores. When the skin lacks moisture, dead skin cells can accumulate and clog pores, leading to inflammation. Pulling double 79 duty as moisturiser and acne fighter, ASTALIFT rolls out its sub-line Lunamer, which treats and rehydrates problem skin at the same time. Available as a facial wash, skin conditioner and gel cream, the line is also infused with bilberry leaf and artichoke leaf extracts to encourage cell turnover and prevent pimple scars. From $31, available at ASTALIFT.

TOUGH GIRL SEASON Inching closer to the dark, Yves Saint Laurent Beaute moves into rebel punk territory this fall as it rolls out an electrically-charged, opulent collection that is wild yet wearable. Ever so classy, the Couture Palette Collector Fetiche is clad in biker-esque black leather, and opens to five gorgeously warm colours. Eyes are further enhanced with chrome metal and denim blue eyeliners, and volumising mascaras, while cheeks and nails are both matte nude and sophisticated. A vinyl sheen of beige and brown on the puckers completes the look. Available at YSL Beaute.

FLASH: MADEUP

Two decades ago, up-and-coming makeup artist Francois Nars broke the mould and created a series of 12 lipsticks that took the world by storm. This month, we celebrate the incredible milestone of the NARS brand with the launch of the Audacious Lipstick Collection – featuring 40 shades of intense colour from sophisticated neutrals, blood-pumping scarlets to look-at-me pinks. The new lippies now come in matte-black metallic bullets with magnetic closures, and promise full-coverage formulas that smooth, moisturise and volumise. $32, available at NARS.

Matte on the skin and quick-drying without leaving a white cast, the Bioderma Photoderm MAX Dry Touch SPF 50+ UVA 36 provides high levels of protection against UVA and UVB rays not just on the surface, but also on the cellular level – thanks to its protective anti-oxidant complex and natural self-defence ability. $44.90 (40ml), available at selected Guardian stores.

PICK:

URBAN DECAY x PULP FICTION Also turning 20 this year is the 1994 film Pulp Fiction, featuring Uma Thurman as the bad*ss Mrs Mia Wallace, who inspired this collection from Urban Decay. Recreate her dark, edgy look with the palette of five shades, of which three are new; a deep blood red lippie and lip pencil that are creamy, sexy and intense; and a waterbased black-and-silver glitter eyeliner that glides on and stays put. Jet black bob optional. From $30 to $52, available at Sephora for a limited time.

SOLID FOUNDATION

Not only do cushion foundations provide an even, natural finish for flawless, next-to-nothing skin, they are also compact, refillable, and boast a host of skin-loving benefits. Meet our latest faves.

TWIN EFFORT WHAT?

Orbis Oil-Cut Care-Na Hot Cool Gel

WHY?

Dirty clogged pores are a perennial problem in our humid weather, which gives rise to over-active sebum production and trapped grime.

FLASH: MADEUP

HOW?

This pore-refining gel creates a warming effect on application and contains micro charcoal beads to deep-clean pores and pull out dirt. It then leaves a cooling sensation, thanks to its witch hazel extract, after wash to refresh and minimise appearance of pores for better texture.

VDL BEAUTY METAL CUSHION FOUNDATION

THE FACE SHOP CUSHION SCREEN CELL

INNISFREE LONG WEAR CUSHION SPF50+ / PA+++

Besides providing lasting coverage that lends a natural radiance to skin, we also love its unique metal plate technology that keeps the formula cool and reduces contamination from application contact. $52 (15g), available at VDL.

The first cushion to come with a filtering screen, it helps pick up just the right amount of product so application is light and even. By keeping out up to 99.9 per cent of microbials, this is also a more hygienic alternative. $49.90 (15g), available at The Face Shop.

For use as both a base and on its own, this brightening formula powers through sweltering weather without ‘melting’, helping to keep makeup in place for longer. Its sebum control powder also helps to prevent mid-day shine. $34 (15g), available at Innisfree.

WHEN?

Once or twice a week after regular cleansing. Massage a pea-sized amount in circular motion for 15 seconds then rinse.

WHERE?

$21.50 (60g), available at Orbis.

SO TSU ME Two years ago, we fell deep in love with the wonderful Tsuya Skin Serum, which worked tirelessly to give skin better texture and a proven glow. This season, we are excited to add Shu Uemura Tsuya Skin Youthful Crystal-Transparency Lotion to our vanity. Available in three variants to suit oily, normal and dry skin types, it hydrates and smooths skin to create a soft, dewy visage, and promotes ‘selfcleansing’ to help rid skin of residual impurities and promote luminosity. Use immediately after cleansing, like a toner, to prep skin for both your morning and evening beauty routines. $70, available at Shu Uemura

WANT PLUMPER-LOOKING SKIN? Slather on the Glamglow Thirstymud Hydrating Treatment and leave on for 20 minutes then rinse to remove, or massage remainder into skin to use as an overnight mask. Its blend of hyaluronic, citric and linoleic acids, ginger root, orange blossom honey and vitamins C and E helps to unveil a smoother, more youthful visage with just one use. $92 (50g), available at Escentials and Sephora stores.

Text Jazmin Kelly Six Images Various Sources

START YOUR ENGINES

NAVIGATE

From the F1 racetrack to your kitchen counter top, Arte Meccanica is leaving competitors in the dust with its latest Espresso Veloce machines. Fashioned after the very engines raced by the likes of Hamilton and Schumacher, these hand-built three-litre Grand Prix ‘motors’ aren’t just the Mona Lisa of engineering, they actually churn out rich Italian-style coffee too. While it comes in three spanking models (V8, V10 and V12) and customisable engines in six colours – from metallic Rosso red to Nero jetblack - with only 500 numbered units worldwide, you bet it’ll be a swift race to the finish line to bag yourself one of these handsome machines. espressoveloce.com

Text Ling Tay Images Espresso Veloce

FOR A BETTER TOMORROW HERE’S THE LOWDOWN ON THE SCENE SO FAR: IT’S GREAT, IT’S HEALTHY AND IT’S PROLIFERATING AT A RATE WE’VE NEVER SEEN BEFORE. OF COURSE, THIS BEING SINGAPORE, WE’RE ALWAYS FINDING THINGS TO NITPICK AT. AFTER ALL, THERE’S ALWAYS ROOM FOR IMPROVEMENT! substation

MORE LOVE, LESS HATE The Internet can be a cruel thing, especially when everyone’s masked with a veil of anonymity. Of course, you’re free to throw your opinions around, but we all know when an opinion isn’t exactly an opinion, but a malicious attack. This is especially unsettling when it’s folks from the music scene are getting bashed; they are here to make music, not war, trolls.

FEATURE

baybeats

WHERE YO MONEY AT? We recognise that the National Stadium is a huge icon, and it deserves to be treated well. However, this treatment doesn’t come cheap – the bill for giving it a new lease of life came to 1.8 billion whopping dollars. That’s okay, except that other (admittedly, smaller) landmarks in the local scene are languishing and lacking the funds to ensure their longevity. Take for example, the ever-beloved Substation – the gallery at Singapore’s first independent, contemporary arts centre is in need of a major overhaul and it has to turn to crowdfunding to support in part the $30,000 required. The big G ain’t listening when it comes to smaller, but no less important, projects such as this, but we hope you do. Save the Gallery! Park your money at pozible.com/project/181948.

MUSIC TO OUR MOUTHS We love that bistros and cafes are popping up everywhere here, and we like that most have darn good coffee and grub. What gets our goat is how many places don’t pay as much attention to the music that they are serving up. How are we supposed to enjoy our Fair Trade artisanal coffee with One Direction or even worse, a Pit Bull-remixed One Direction track in the background?

MORE BANG FOR YOUR BAY We hereby profess our love for The Esplanade – having just come home from a great performance by Amateur Takes Control and Caracal, we can’t help but look back from all the greatness that have been bestowed upon us by The Esplanade. There’s Baybeats, the weekly line-up of performances, and of course, the incredible views of the bay and breezes licking us cool. The question from greedy music lovers is: can we have more of such venues, please? rouse cafe

HAPPINESS ON THE CHEAP SG’s a bad place for appreciators of alcoholic beverages, and it can only get worse since there seem to be no end to the increasing ‘vice taxes’. There is absolutely nothing we can do about this unfortunate situation, except to send a shoutout to our beloved providers: how about setting up more bars and pubs in places where you can save on rent, so that we get to enjoy our tipple without breaking the bank? Hint: We love our hawker centres!

the good beer company

maad market

DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD Is the Strawberry Generation finally growing a backbone of its own? It does look like a possibility, with what looks like more social projects targeted at making SG a better place, such as the successful Edible Gardens by Nong, an initiative aimed at connecting the urban set to nature.

canvas singapore

A COLLECTIVE OF IDEAS In other Asian global cities such as Hong Kong, they have entire buildings and compounds dedicated to the retail of good design and culture, with an emphasis on home-grown names. We do have places such as the MAAD market for that, which is great, but we need something more permanent. The entire ground level of Red Dot Traffic Building, perhaps?

xtreme skate park

IF IT AIN’T BROKE, DON’T FIX IT All of us were devastated by the demise of Home Club, but that didn’t last very long. In its place is Canvas Singapore which reflects the same values of its predecessor in a shinier, tidier package. We wish that this could have been the case for some of our long-gone watering holes though, such as Liquid Room.

BE BIGGER AND BOLDER

LISTEN TO US We’re a small country, but we have quite a few skate parks to cater for those who love getting their thrills from a board. There is a small kink: it seems that hardly any skateboarder were consulted in the designs of government-built skateparks, which means it is beset by problems such as ramps that are too steep. Our simple recommendation? Get on the ground and speak to the folks who use it!

Text

Singapore’s fashion industry is taking off in a way that we feel it’s not long before we reach the status of say, Seoul. But before that, our designers need to make a bigger impact. That’s not to say that we don’t dig our local designers, but we feel that there’s still more room for audacity and innovation; leave the vanilla to the normcore folks!

Images Various Sources

IN THE MOOD FOR NOODS

THERE’S NO DENYING THAT WE SINGA FOLKS LOVE OUR RAMEN TO BITS; JUST LOOK AT THE NUMBER OF NEW STORES THAT’VE SPROUTED ALL ABOUT TOWN. WE GIVE THE LATEST FOUR A GO.

nebuta special combo

tonkotsu black

chicken nanban yuki matsuri special combo

GRUB

TONKOTSU KING MATSURI

The sixth outlet by the Keisuke chain, Matsuri pays homage to traditional Nippon festivities and features a menu with all-new creations that are just as boisterous on the palate. Mains: Nebuta Special Combo ($18.90) combines tonkotsu and niboshi (sun-dried Japanese sardines) broth in a smokey, salty bowl, topped with char-flavoured pork slices; while the experimental Yuki Matsuri Special Combo ($18.90) comes with generous amounts of parmesan cheese flakes, which lends the bowl a rich creaminess that isn’t overpowering. Sides: The deep-fried chicken chunks in Chicken Nanban with Tartar Sauce ($9) are piping hot and drenched in a sweet soy and vinegar sauce, which adds a delightful contrast to the cool eggy dressing that’s served on the side. Wash it all down with Keisuke’s very own Green Tea Cola ($3.80) – a light, refreshing version perfumed with a touch of matcha. #B1-18A Parkway Parade, tel: 6440-5548

tonkotsu spicy

gyoza

HAKATA IKKOUSHA

The latest of three outlets, Ikkousha has come a long way since bagging the title of Singapore’s ‘Ultimate Ramen Champion’ in 2011, and continues to dish out a winning collagen-rich creamy broth that’s slow-boiled for over 12 hours. Mains: Tonkotsu Black ($13.50) takes the already-flavourful soup to the next level – with a satisfying blend of fried garlic, onion and black sesame that imparts a nutty smokiness; while Tonkotsu Spicy ($13.50), which comes in four levels of spiciness, thrills with its wicked blend of Szechuan spices. Sides: Probably the best Gyozas ($5 for five pieces) in this list, these pillows of minced pork, cabbage and chives come with a yuzu spiced dip that combines the fruit’s citrus-y tang with a touch of heat. The crispy and juicy Special Fried Chicken ($5 for three pieces) is marinated lightly with ginger and best enjoyed with a dash of the accompanying five-spice powder and salt dip. #01-07 CHIJMES, tel: 6338-8460 zaru ramen

tenchirashi ramen

ika karage

hakata tonkotsu ramen tonkotsu kara kara ramen

miso tofu steak

SHIN-SAPPORO RAMEN

Achieving a healthy diet no longer has to be just all-greens and no game. The newest and fourth Shin-Sapporo outlet welcomes families with their latest health-oriented seasonal menu. Mains: A chilled light-tasting ramen with an assortment of seafood and mushrooms, the Tenchirashi Ramen ($15.80) is easier on the palate as compared to heavier broths, as the refreshing soup duly complements the supple, al dente noodles. Those who prefer a fuller-bodied soup should try the Hakata Tonkotsu Ramen ($14.80), which packs a savoury punch, accented by tender slices of grilled cha-shu. Sprinkle on the fragrant fried garlic slices for that extra oomph. Sides: We enjoyed the sizzling hot-plate Miso Tofu Steak ($6.80) with its special miso paste atop a crispy tempura tofu and deep fried potato, and also the delightfully chilled Ebi Tofu ($6.80), garnished with a succulent prawn and crunchy asparagus amidst sweet tangy sesame sauce. #B2-04A/05 Orchard Gateway, tel: 6702-4906

CHABUTON

Boasting creations by Yasuji Morizumi – 2002 TV Champion’s ‘Best Ramen Chef’ and the first to earn a Michelin star – Chabuton brings its award-winning recipes to our shores, following a sweeping craze in both Japan and Thailand. Mains: On its own, the Tonkotsu Ramen ($11.90) is umami with an accent of sesame, yet remains light in taste. Chilli heads should try a side of the Kara Kara (spicy meat) topping, which adds a welcome kick of heat from chilli padi and Szechuan peppers. For something different, go with the Zaru Ramen ($11.90), where thin cold noodles come with a warm Japanese soy sauce soup, teasing the palate with an interesting hot-cold sensation. Sides: Lightly battered and deep-fried to perfection, the non-greasy Ika Karaage (fried squid, $5) is an airy, crispy snack that pops in the mouth with natural flavours and a balanced hint of salt. We also liked the juicy and flavourful Fried Chicken ($5) pieces. #B2-01 313@Somerset, tel: 6636-8335

Text Jazmin Kelly Six & Ling Tay Images Various Sources

STAND UP FOR ‘DEMONCRACY’ HALLOWEEN HORROR NIGHTS 4

Reigning over all terrified souls this year will be the Minister of Evil, displaying his new ‘demoncracy’ with a loony killer clown at Jack’s 3-Dementia; a vengeful bully victim haunting the corridors of Jing’s Revenge; soldiers put through bestial training at Mati Camp, and not forgetting to mention, wicked aliens bent on wiping out the human race being born in The L.A.B (Laboratory Of Alien Breeding). Sadistically based on some of the many horror stories we’ve heard growing up in Singapore, HHN4 created whole fictional worlds for the haunted houses that reach out to guests on a staggering emotional level that’s bound to have your hair stand on end for weeks to come. For those seeking a slight pit stop to rest their pounding hearts and mental stamina (we know we will be), Jack’s Nightmare Circus will also be debuting at Pantages Hollywood Theatre for the period of Halloween, featuring aerial acrobats, contortionists and other freaky friends. A night to totally scream ourselves silly and have our Singaporean nightmares come true in mind-blowing 3-D effects? Sounds terrorific! If you’ve just one night to spare this October, HHN4 will be the place to be fo’ sho. Oh and need we mention this is probably not for the faint of heart?

Halloween Horror Nights 4 runs for 13 nights over five weekends, from October 3 to November 1, 7.30pm to 1.30am every evening. Tickets from $60 (Early-bird) to $158 (R.I.P Tour Package with guide), available at halloweenhorronights.com.sg. Grab your Frequent Fear Pass at $118 to revisit the HHN4 up to seven times! Text Ling Tay Images Universal Studios Singapore

ALERT

Calling all adrenaline junkies, horror film buffs and thrill-seekers alike! The highly anticipated Halloween Horror Nights series returns this October, and this time, it is out to wrench your guts. Bringing with it not just a record-breaking number of four haunted houses, but also four intensive scare zones, this heart-stopping night will feature Singapore’s inaugural 3-D horror house, that comes with 3-D glasses for a psychedelic experience!

RELEASING THE BRAKES JANSEN TAN

HOMEGROWN

EVERYONE NEEDS A SLEEK, CLEAN RIDE. BUT DON’T WORRY IF YOU CAN’T GET YOUR HANDS ON THE LATEST, SWANKIEST FOUR-WHEELER; WE’VE GOT SOMETHING JUST AS COOL, IF NOT BETTER. A SPIN OFF THE ‘MONSTER TRUCKS’ TREND, THE BESPOKE ‘FATBIKES’ AT COAST CYCLES ARE BOUND TO GET YOU THROUGH TRAFFIC ON TIME AND IN STYLE. WE GET UP CLOSE WITH FOUNDER TAN TO UNCOVER MORE BEHIND THIS UNIQUE CONCEPT SPACE THAT HOUSES A WORKSHOP, CAFE AND RETAIL STORE UNDER ONE ROOF.

Hey Jansen, when did your passion for bicycle design kick in? Well, I’ve been cycling since I was young as the bicycle was my first form of transport and somehow, a ticket to freedom. I used to mountain bike too and took that passion further when I started to train for bike trials and represented Singapore in various youth biking competitions. The bicycle designer in me really surfaced during my poly days, when it struck me that I needed a cool, urban ride that I could take to go meet friends. About two years ago, I finally put pen to paper and designed a cool frame for myself, which eventually led to the birth of Coast Cycles. How was it like being a national biking athlete? My years as a carded national athlete were certainly fun; especially being able to represent our country for the sport I love. My first overseas competition was the most memorable. I remember struggling to adapt to the foreign climate and environment, even the food and terrain. The competition was really tough too. What makes Coast Cycles different from all other bike stores in SIngapore? Coast Cycles has a unique approach, which can’t be found in other places – it

is a unified and engaging, end-to-end experience for anyone who walks through our doors. We design our bicycles locally as a sole manufacturer and distributor of our own brand, building on the experience of a community of people who are passionate about bicycles. We take a more intimate approach in finding the right product for our customers through an engaging and immersive service experience. What were some of the challenges you faced with this start-up? As a new kid on the block, it takes time for people to know about the brand and to realise the true value that we are offering – the materials and components used in our bicycles are built to last in our tropical climate. Our bicycles require nearly zero maintenance and will easily look well-groomed, fresh and clean. In our fast-paced urban society, are you confident that bicycles are a popular mode of transport? Commuting on a bicycle leaves no carbon footprint and you can go as far as you want. There is no limit to cycling as it can take you to places where a vehicle can’t. I personally see cycling as a relaxing activity, where there is freedom and ease, to balance our fast-paced lifestyle in an urban environment.

Text Ling Tay Images Coast Cycles

So what’s going to be wheeled in next with Coast Cycles? This is our only concept store in Singapore and we will continue to develop the business based on our vision of bringing forth well-designed urban transport solutions to the community. We had a great time last month at Binary! How did you come to collaborate with Darker Than Wax and how was it like working with them? Dean Chew, co-founder of Darker Than Wax, is the interior designer for Coast Cycles and also curates the music playlist for our store. We are like-minded and decided to join forces to launch our brands together at this event. Having worked with Dean before on other architectural projects, prepping for this event went very smoothly and the event was a success. Great bunch of guys there over at DTW! Before we go, share with us your favourite biking route in Singapore. Park connectors such as Punggol Waterway and Marina Barrage are beautiful and really stand out, but my favourite would have to be East Coast Park.

coastcycles.com

TRAVEL IN STYLE WITH NAIISE Planning a short getaway this September holidays? Check in with the good folks at Naiise before you pack up that luggage. We spy three neat essentials that double as perfect Insta props. 2D 3D Bag, $99 Made from 100 per cent waterproof Telfon-coated canvas, this carrier lays flat when unused and transforms into a roomy square-based tote with zipper flaps, and inner zipper pocket and comfy shoulder straps. Peppermint Camera, $200 No holiday selfie would be perfect without this super retro 35mm shooter. Available in pop colours inspired by Pantone, analogue photography lovers can capture every special moment on film and relish in holding tangible memories in your hands.

COMIC SENSE

Available at naiise.com.

RETRO FOOD WEAR

HEADS UP Just when you thought Chanel was already doing mighty fine with its highly sought-after apparel and accessories, it is moving into the tech arena with a pair of swanky noise-cancelling cans. Clothed in luxurious quilted lambskin, complete with dual mono amplifiers for a fully balanced sound experience, this wireless baby also comes with a matching carry pouch that’ll put you smack in the front of the fashion set. Available at Chanel.

Drawing inspiration from the littlest things, When I Was Four reaches out to the younger selves in us all, with their re-creation of old-school items coming to life via cushions, totes, tees, and pins. Their latest tees feature foodie illustrations with a nostalgic touch, such as the classic gem biscuit every Singaporean kid is familiar with, and chwee kueh – our nation’s favourite steamed rice cakes. Printed direct-to-garment for a lasting finish, these pre-shrunk jersey knits are sure to bring appreciative smiles across our island. From $32.90 to $37.90, available on wheniwasfour.com.

WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH VODKA? 1. For fresher smelling clothes, bottle it and spritz onto your duds then hang dry – it kills odour-causing bacteria and doesn’t leave marks. 2. Extend the lifespan of your blooms by adding a few drops of sugar and it to the vase. It keeps ’em fresh for longer. 3. To revive dull tresses, add a shot of it to a 350ml bottle of shampoo and lather away to unveil of head of shiny locks. 4. Drink up! With such premium bottles on hand like the newly-launched Reyka and Snow Leopard, what else is there to do?

Reyka Vodka, $200 onwards (750ml) Delicate yet slightly creamy, this wheat-based spirit has a sweet-dry balance and a subtle hint of spiciness.

Snow Leopard Vodka, $118 (700ml) Super smooth and delectable with accents of vanilla, it has peppery nutty nuances and a fresh floral aroma.

FLASH: NAVIGATE

We dare say fans of Fight Club will be absolutely ecstatic because the good ol’ classic is set to return as a comic book series – Fight Club 2. What’s more, the power duo overseeing the sequel, Cameron Stewart and David Mack, will be speaking to fans at the Singapore Toy, Game and Comic Convention (STGCC) this month. We are also keeping a keen eye on other incoming pop culture personalities like Tokidoki’s Simone Legno, and Humberto Ramos, creator of the Amazing Spiderman comic series. Plus, Artist Alley will also feature numerous budding homegrown artists such as Mighty Jaxx, who partnered with toy creator Alex Sollis, on ‘The Chunky Knight’ – plus-sized Batman in skin-tight latex. We dig! STGCC happens on September 6 and 7 at Marina Bay Sands. Tickets from $19 (one-day pass) to $25 (two-day pass), available at singaporetgcc.com.

Makore & Red Sanders Carpenter Watch, $209 Because metal, rubber and ceramic bands are too mainstream. From the guys at Analog Watch Co., this sleek, lightweight timekeeper comes with a flexible wooden strap that’s soft and comfy to wear.

FUN DAY OUT

GOOD EATS Three new restos that are whetting our appetites.

KEEPERS: DESIGNER DREAM TENT SALE SINGAPORE COLLECTIVE Sep 6 and 7, 11am to 7pm If you’re looking to dress up your home with iconic designer furnishings from Dream, drop by this outdoor bazaar that resembles a New York Smorgasbord. Besides home decor items and quirky curios, this event also promises a tantalising array of eats and sweets from The Travelling C.O.W and Island Creamery, and lifestyle goods from The General Company. 456 River Valley Road.

Sep 12 to Feb 15, 2015, 11am to 10pm With an aim to spread the appreciation for the creative and development process, this five-monthlong pop-up store showcases the works of over 50 hand-picked local designers and artisans, ranging fashion, furniture and architecture design. Expect a diverse line-up of events including workshops, food events, and monthly visual installations. Orchard Green, opposite Robinsons Orchard.

PINCE & PINTS This eatery makes the decadent lobster easily accessible at reasonable prices. Having been housed in a stress-free environment until it hits pan, the lobster meat is sweet, succulent and offers a nice chewy bite. We have to add that it’s served in generous portions too. Try the quintessential Lobster Roll ($48), which boasts a buttery crisp bun and juicy chunks of meat; and the Chilli Lobster with Mantou ($48), drenched in a tangy sweet chilli sauce. 32/33 Duxton Road, tel: 6225-7558.

FLASH:NAVIGATE

Now hear this

AUDIO TECHNICA SONICFUEL ATH-AX5IS Packing style and convenience into one, it features huge 40mm drivers for top-notch sound, and long-term comfort and wearability with its cushioned ear pads and headband. The volume and music control – and even the answering of calls – are at the touch of a single button, plus, you can easily fold it flat and tuck it into the carrying case. Exclusively available at Stereo Electronics at ION Orchard and Plaza Singapura.

JABRA STEP WIRELESS Sick of having your earphones yanked out from accidental tugs? We know we are. These smart-fit angled earbuds boasts soft over-the-ear gelhooks and noise-isolating abilities to keep your music in place. It sits snugly in the ear cavity, is dust- and water-resistant, and comes with in-line controls for your music and calls. Perfect for life on the move. $108, available at Apple premium resellers, Challenger, Harvey Norman, and authorised Jabra resellers.

SWEET TREATS Good party music and free-flow drinks are two of the best things to look forward to every mid-week but Attica is upping the ante with its new Eat Me, Drink Me Bar. Happening every Wednesday, Guilty Pleasures treats the fairer gender to a host of sugary goodness – from Oreo Cookie shots and Jagermeister ice cream to a chocolate fountain with vodka- and champagne-soaked strawberries. Dress to impress and you and four gal-pals might stand to win a giant martini, or score some shots at the roving ‘Russian Roulette’ board. Guilty Pleasures happens every Wednesday at Attica. Admission at $20 for gents, while ladies enjoy free entry, drinks and treats from 10.30pm to midnight.

Text Jazmin Kelly Six & Ling Tay Images Various Sources

SEASONS BISTRO From fresh, sustainable seafood to Mexican-style dishes, Seasons takes us on a culinary adventure showcasing the American cuisine. Favourites include the Poutine ($10), a comforting bowl of cheese curds and beef gravy slathered over thick-cut fries; Surf & Turf Gumbo ($29), rice drenched in okra tomato stew mixed with chicken, shrimp and sausage; and the Mojito Tart ($12), a heavenly treat of rum cream and mint lime curd tucked prettily in a toasted coconut crust. #01-11/12 Triple One Somerset, tel: 6836-5841.

MOOSEHEAD KITCHEN BAR With an eclectic array of recycled furniture, and hip indie music playing, this is one alternative space for the foodie with edge. Its menu features grub inspired by the owners’ travels, as well as a wide range of exotic craft beers. A must-try however, is the Crispy Spiced Pig Ears ($16), a crunchy curry-like snack that is tender on the inside and goes best with ice-cold beer. We also liked the Chilli Pineapple Popsicle ($14), a refreshing treat topped with frozen gula melaka foam, banana custard, and dark chocolate bits. 110 Telok Ayer Street, tel: 6636-8055.

ATH-AX5iS

Over-ear headphones for smartphones www.audio-technica.com.sg

Exclusively available at:

GUILTY PLEASURES AT ATTICA SINGAPORE LADIES NIGHTS DONE RIGHT

DARKER THAN WAX & & COAST CYCLES PRESENT BINARY AT THE VAULT WE MOVE

KILLER LITTER - A LOOFTOP NATIONAL DAY PARTY AT LOOF HAVOC UP HIGH

Enjoy your perfect cup in an instant—hot or iced.

100% Starbucks® arabica coffee you brew instantly. Make it just the way you like it with your favorite additions.

REWIND FELLOWSHIP FEAT. MR HAS AT KYO

SCENE

LORD OF THE SWINGS

94 92

CANVAS OFFICIAL LAUNCH FEAT. ETON MESSY AT CANVAS SINGAPORE FEELS LIKE HOME

FENIX ROOM PRESENTS EVE OF NATIONAL DAY AT FENIX ROOM MAJULAH MANIA

SHOP AT THESE

STOCKISTS II MONKII FAR EAST PLAZA, #03-95

PULL & BEAR ION ORCHARD, #B2-08

ACTUALLY ORCHARD GATEWAY, #03-18

PUMA ION ORCHARD, #B2-23

AGNES B./SPORT B. WISMA ATRIA, LEVEL 2

PREVIEW CATHAY CINELEISURE, #03-03A

BERSHKA ION ORCHARD, #B2-09/10/11

PVS CATHAY CINELEISURE, #02-05

BIMBA Y LOLA ION ORCHARD, #B1-04

ROBINSONS ORCHARD 260 ORCHARD ROAD

CELIO BUGIS+, #01-05

ROCKSTAR BY SOON LEE CATHAY CINELEISURE, #03-08

COTTON ON WISMA ATRIA, #B1-23/25

SECTS SHOP ORCHARD GATEWAY, #04-14

COS ION ORCHARD, #03-23/23A

STRADIVARIUS ION ORCHARD, #B2-15

DESOUL FAR EAST PLAZA, #03-24A

THE EDITOR’S MARKET CATHAY CINELEISURE, #03-04/06A

DOROTHY PERKINS WISMA ATRIA, #01-27/28

TOPMAN/TOPSHOP KNIGHTSBRIDGE, #01-05/06

DR. MARTENS WHEELOCK PLACE, #02-17A FOREVER 21 ORCHARD EXCHANGE, #B1-01 TO 18 FUNC DEKO FAR EAST PLAZA, #B3-01 H&M ORCHARD BUILDING I.T ORCHARD GATEWAY, #B1-13, #01-18, #02-24 LAUREN JASMINE WHEELOCK PLACE, #B1-06 LEFTFOOT ENTREPOT THE CATHAY, #01-19/20 MISS SELFRIDGE WISMA ATRIA, #01-27/28 NEW LOOK 313@SOMERSET, #B2-34/37 Looking for ? juice.com.sg/find-juice

CLUBS, PUBS & BARS 1-ALTITUDE

HARD ROCK CAFÉ

ACID BAR

ICE COLD BEER

Level 63, 1 Raffles Place T: 6438 0410 Music: Chill-out 180 Orchard Road, Peranakan Place T: 6738 8828 www.peranakanplace.com Music: Live acoustic

ALLEY BAR

180 Orchard Road, Peranakan Place T: 6738 8818 www.peranakanplace.com Music: Nu-groove, lounge, acid jazz and funk

AQUANOVA

The Cannery Clarke Quay, Block C, #01–03, T: 6305 6733 www.aquanova.sg Music: Live

ATTICA & ATTICA TOO

3A River Valley Road, #01-03 Clarke Quay T: 6333 9973 www.attica.com.sg Music: Classic dance anthems, R&B and hip-hop

AVALON

Marina Bay Sands Floating Pavilion T: 6688 7448 www.avalon.sg Music: Dance

THE ARENA

3B River Valley Road, #01-08, Clarke Quay T: 6338 3158 www.thearenalive.com.sg Music: Live music

BARRACKS & TIPPLING CLUB 8D Dempsey Rd T: 6475 2217 www.dempseyhouse.com

BAR COCOON

3A, Merchant’s Court, Clarke Quay, River Valley Rd, #01-02 T: 6557 6268 Music: Eclectic, new-wave, electro, uplifting house, big tunes & deep house

BAR OPIUME

TO CHECK OUT

50 Cuscaden Road T: 6235 5232 www.hardrock.com.sg Music: Live acoustic and rock 9 Emerald Hill Road T: 6735 9929 50 Stamford Road Singapore Management University Lee Kong Chian School of Business #01-01 T: 6837 3585 www.emeraldhillgroup.com Music: Classic, alternative and adult contemporary rock

INK CLUB BAR

Raffles The Plaza 80 Bras Basah Road T: 6431 5315 www.inkclubbar.com Music: Sexy funky house

J BAR

QUE PASA

7 Emerald Hill Road T: 6235 6626 www.emeraldhillgroup.com Music: Modern & traditional jazz guitar instrumental & acid jazz with female vocals

THE RABBIT HOLE

3C Harding Road T: 6473 9965 www.thewhiterabbit.com.sg

ROYAL ROOM MINK

7, Raffles Boulevard, Pan Pacific Hotel Music: R&b and hip-hop

SUPRETTE

383 Jalan Besar, Singapore 209001 www.suprette.com Music: Top 50’s, R&B

M-Hotel, 81 Anson Road, Level 9 T: 6500 6119 www.millenniumhotels.com.sg Music: Live acoustic, pop, rock, R&B, jazz, contemporary

STELLAR BAR

JIGGER & PONY

442 Orchard Road, Orchard Hotel T: 6493 6952 Music: Live music

101 Amoy Street T: 62239101 www.jiggerandpony.com

KU DÈ TA

1, Bayfront Ave, Marina Bay Sands Skypark T: 6688 7688 www.kudeta.com.sg

KYO

133 Cecil Street, Keck Seng Tower, #B1-02 Music: Dance Anthems, Hip-hop/ r&b, House, Tech-house, Techno

LANTERN

The Fullerton Bay Hotel, 1 Fullerton Road T: 6597 5299 Music: Live cuban band nightly

LOOF

331 North Bridge Road, Odeon Towers (extension rooftop), #03-07 T: 6338 8035 www.loof.com.sg Music: Eclectic, chill-out

9 Emerald Hill Road T: 6735 9929 www.emeraldhillgroup.com Music: Classic rock

TAB

TAKÉ

3 Nanson Road, Studio M Hotel T: 6808 8888 Music: Live music on Fridays and Saturdays

THE CUFFLINK CLUB

6 Jiak Chuan Road 089262 T: 9694 9623 www.thecufflinkclub.com

THE LIBRARY

47 Keong Saik Road, Singapore 089151 T: 6221 8338 Music: Chill-out

THE MAD MEN ATTIC BAR 11 North Canal Road,#03-02, Singapore 048826 T: 6222 3529 Music: Live music

THE VAULT

1, Empress Place, ACM T: 6323 1043 www.indochine.com.sg Music: Rosanna & Her Jazz Players, Mon - Sat from 9.30pm

THE MANSION

UNIQLO 313@SOMERSET, #03-27 TO #03/34

BLUJAZ CAFÉ

11 Bali Lane T: 6292 3800 www.blujaz.net Music: Live jazz, funk, boogie

The Cannery Clarke Quay, 01-10 Block C T: 6305 6726 www.mulliganspubs.com Music: Live Music

45 Armenian Street (The Substation Garden) T: 6338 8277 www.timbre.com.sg Music: EIC, Ngak & Jack, Timmy and Alemay Fernandez

ZARA LIAT TOWERS

THE BUTTER FACTORY

NEW ASIA BAR

WALA WALA CAFÉ

NIGHT&DAY

WAVEHOUSE

One Fullerton, 1 Fullerton Road, T: 6333 8243 www.thebutterfactory.com Music (Fash): Eclectic-Indie, electro Music (Bump): Hip-hop, R&B

COASTES

50 Siloso Beach Walk #01-05 T: 6274 9663

DREAM

Block C, The Cannery Clarke Quay T: 6305 6768 Music: Hip-hop, R&B, electro

EM BY THE RIVER

1 Nanson Road, #01-05 Gallery Hotel T: 6836 9691 www.em-n-em.com Music: Weekdays- Down Tempo, Bar Sounds, Weekends- Bar Sounds, Soulful and Deep House

EM STUDIO

1 Nanson Road Gallery Hotel #02-05 T: 6836 9691 www.em-n-em.com Music: All genres of house

FABRIKA

Klapsons The Boutique Hotel, 15 Hoe Chiang Road, 17th Floor Sky Terrace T: 6521 9029

FENIX ROOM

3C River Valley Road T: 6305 6768 Music: EDM, hip-hop, indie

Pacific Plaza, 9 Scotts Road #01-01 - T: 6234 2276 Music: Soul, lounge, hip-hop

MULLIGAN’S

Level 71 Swissotel The Stamford T: 6431 6156 www.equinoxcomplex.com Music: Top 40s & R&B 139 Selegie Road, Singapore 188309 T: 6884 5523 www.nightandday.sg Music: Live music

NO.5 EMERALD HILL COCKTAIL BAR

5 Emerald Hill Road T: 6732 0818 www.emeraldhillgroup.com Music: Acid jazz, blues, R&B and classic charts’ hits

OVEREASY

1 Fullerton Road, #01-06, One Fullerton T: 6423 0701 www.overeasy.com.sg

PLAYHOUSE

3, River Valley Road Music: Hip-hop, R&B, electro

POST BAR

The Fullerton Singapore, 1 Fullerton Square T: 6877 8135 Music: New age and chill-out

POWERHOUSE GALLERY BAR BELLINI ROOM

St. James Power Station 3 Sentosa Gateway #01-01 T: 6270 7676 www.powerhouse.sg Music: Pop, house (Powerhouse), Disco, funk (Gallery bar), Jazz (Bellini room)

23 Circular Road, Singapore 049379 T: 6222 5001 www.thevault.com.sg

TIMBRÉ MUSIC BISTRO

31 Lorong Mambong, Holland Village T: 6462 4288 Music: Live band plays nightly from 9pm onwards 36 Siloso Beach Walk T: 6377 3113 www.wavehousesentosa.com

WOOBAR

W Singapore Sentosa Cove, 21 Ocean Way www.wsingaporesentosacove.com/ indulge

YING YANG

28 Ann Siang Road, The Club Hotel T: 8518 3156 www.yingyang.sg Music: Bar grooves & house

ZOUK PHUTURE VELVET UNDERGROUND WINEBAR

17 Jiak Kim Street T: 6738 2988 www.zoukclub.com Music: Techno, electro (Zouk), hip-hop, R&B (Phuture), deep house, soul (Velvet Underground), downtempo (Winebar)

9.00pm till late As the Lion City comes alive with high-speed racing action, New Asia propels your night experience to unimaginable heights with a phenomenal line-up of world-class International DJs spinning their mind-blowing hits. Friday, 19 September 2014 | DJ Daddy K (BEL) Saturday, 20 September 2014 | DJ Keza (FRA) Sunday, 21 September 2014 | DJ Claudio Lari (ITA) Cover charge of $30nett per person inclusive of one standard beverage. VIP table packages* from $500++ inclusive of a bottle of Johnnie Walker Black Label and Belvedere Vodka. *Guaranteed table by the window with track view from $2,288++ to $3,388++.

Please note that photos taken during the event may be used for promotional purposes.

For RSVPs and enquiries, please contact New Asia at +65 9177 7307, email newasiabar@equinoxcomplex.com or book online at www.newasiabar.com.sg. Level 71, Equinox Complex, Swiss么tel The Stamford 2 Stamford Road, Singapore 178882

BEAT THE RACE

THE FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX INVOLVES SOME SERIOUS HIGH-SPEED ACTION BUT WE’RE TAKING IT SLOW IN THE PADDOCKS TO UNRAVEL SOME FUN FACTS BEHIND THE RACES.

FINAL WORD

Racers Have Winning WAGs Oh it doesn’t matter if they come in last; F1 racers always come out on top in the end with their prized partners. Just look at Karen Minier (David Coulthard), Nicole Scherzinger (Lewis Hamilton) and Jessica Michibata (Jenson Button). *swoon*

F1 Cars Have Astounding Acceleration In fact, they can accelerate from 0 to 160kph, and brake back to 0 in just four seconds flat. So much so that tyres can heat up to 120 deg C. That’s some sizzle!

G-Forces And Thick Necks Let’s break it down for you. One G (or gravitational) is equivalent to your normal weight, 2G is twice and so on, you do the math. This weight is heavy on the head and neck during a race and is especially intense when the driver experiences up to 5G from braking and cornering – which results in disproportionately thick necks.

You’re Never Too Old Who says that racing cars are a young man’s sport? Louis Chiron holds the record for the oldest car racer at 55 years old and finished sixth in the Monaco Grand Prix in 1955. Now where should we sign our dads up?

Defying Gravity Driving upside down or on a ceiling with an F1 car may seem unreal but this stunt can be pulled off, well, theoretically at least. Once a car produces a force that’s equal to its weight, it’s possible for a driver to ride it up the walls and beyond. Word of caution: do not try this at home.

Far From Building Lego Building an F1 car is not for ‘ages five and up’. Despite weighing at just 550kg, an F1 car is made up of a whopping total of 80,000 components. Yeah…we’ll pass.

Gone In 1.923 Seconds The Red Bull Racing team beat their own pitstop record of 2.05 seconds and reset the benchmark with a 1.923 seconds stop for Mark Webber at the United States Grand Prix in Austin in 2013. That’s even faster than we can blink on a sleepy day.

A Great Way To Fly Have you heard? Singapore Airlines is the title sponsor for the F1 Singapore Grand Prix this year and we gotta admit this partnership is pretty on-point. Do you reckon the Singapore Girl will grace the starting and finishing lines, in their kebaya no less? If so, it’s gonna be one hell of a hot race.

Braking Makes Racers Cry Literally! Apparently the braking force of an F1 car is so strong – comparable to hitting a brick wall at 300kph – that drivers’ visors get splashed with their own tears.

Text Kevin Ho & Liyana Meer Images Various Sources

It’s Like A Video Game… Sorta Well, assuming that your psychomotor finger-tapping can switch between 50 different gear ratios and activate the 20 buttons on the wheel, that is. At least it looks like a game controller – albeit, from another universe.

SAVE THE DATES 12-13 DEC 2014 SILOSO BEACH, SENTOSA

FOR MORE DETAILS ON EVENT, LINE-UP & TICKETING, HEAD TO WWW.ZOUKOUT.COM ZOUKOUTOFFICIAL

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