Manchester
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Issue 13 May 2010
The Perfect Guide to the Perfect City
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64/66 High Street, Northern Quarter, Mcr M4 1EA 0161 832 4824 www.englishlounge.co.uk email: englishlounge@btconnect.com
Issue 13 May 2010
Hello Fine Folk Well, dare I say that summer is here? Maybe that’s risking it a little but there has been a certain glow about Manchester in the last month. It’s hilarious to see people strutting around town in shorts and T-shirts when there is only a glimmer of sun in the sky and the temperature is still brisk to say the least, but in fairness, we’ve donned enough layers over the winter so it’s time to dare to bare! It’s been an exciting month at Large with our first birthday last month. We had an awesome party at Rags to Bitches and guests wre wowed by performances from The Ambersons and Kirsty Almeida. Big thanks to our partners Corona, Cupcake Palace and to all our guestst.The hightlights will be in next month’s issue. We’ve undergone a little make-over as we go into our second year so we hope you like the new and improved Large. It’s the month of festivals in Manchester with Hungry Pigeon, Eurocultured, Future Everything and Queer Up North all happening. Each one offers a diverse events program and the teams behind the festivals work tirelessly to ensure the Manchester public get access to world class entertainment. It’s really not to be missed – so go check it out! Until next time,
Sending Large Love. Editor: Kelly Byrne Contributors: Lauren Hughes, Susie Burnett Snail mail: Large Manchester, 60 Port Street, Manchester M1 2EQ Website: www.largemanchester.com Email: editor@largemanchester.com, advertising@largemanchester.com Main Office: 0161 235 7270 Advertising: Contact Claire or Francesca on 0161 235 7270 Editor: Contact Kelly on 0161 235 7278 Disclaimer: ©2010. Large Manchester is published by Large Publishing Ltd. Large Manchester retains copyright. All rights recognised. We cannot accept responsibility for any unsolicited text, photographs or illustrations. Views expressed by individual contributors are not necessarily those of the editor or the publisher.
Albert’s opens doors in Didsbury
City Sounds
Manchester summer hot spot Albert’s Shed is coming to Didsbury with the opening of Albert’s Restaurant and Bar. The eagerly awaited new addition to the West Didsbury dining scene, which has been created from the old Barleycorn pub site on Barlow Moor Road, will accommodate 160 guests inside with a fabulous outside terrace for 60 people perfect for alfresco summer dining. The menu is modern British with an eclectic mix of Albert’s favourites and dishes from around the globe, all using only fresh local ingredients. Albert’s will also offer a full brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays. Those seeking liquid refreshment will not be disappointed – Albert’s Shed has a large bar area for both diners and non diners featuring everything from cocktails to real ales from the Marble Brewery. Reservations are now being taken on 0161 434 8289 and on reservations@albertsdidsbury.com. L
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Pavement Pounding Yes, it’s that time again when 36,000 people take to the streets of Manchester in the 10K run on 16th May. Entries are now closed but if you haven’t managed to bag a place then there are a few charity spots still available. It’s an incredible event with spectators lining the route from start to finish. To everyone running, we wish you the best of luck getting to the finish line and here’s hoping you raise lots en-route. L
Manchester Wins Big at The Northern Hospitality Awards Manchester Wins Big at The Northern Hospitality Awards
City Sounds
Newish bar in the city Corridor won the Best Bar category, whilst Michael Magrane from The
It’s fantastic to receive this level of recognition for Corridor. Winning Best Bar is testament to the work we have undertaken to make Corridor the success it has become. Michael Magrane from the Midland and Ian Morgan from Corridor.
Richard Ashcroft Back in Town Richard Ashcroft’s new band United Nations of Sound have confirmed their first live dates. A European tour will start in Italy followed by dates in France, Germany, and Holland, before climaxing with two UK shows, one of which is at the Manchester Academy on 15th June. It’s a brand new sound for Ashcroft and eager fans will be pleased
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Midland Hotel, won the Best General Manager category. Ian Morgan, proprietor of Corridor, said:
to know the band’s debut album will be out on 7th June. Tickets are on sale now and if there are still any left you can get them from www.gigsandtours.com L
Thomas Restaurant and Bar
New to Manchester
New Northern Quarter eatery, aptly named as it is situated on Thomas Street has proved a welcome addition to the eclectic dining scene in Manchester. Launched by the owners of Cord, The Bay Horse and Soup Kitchen; expect quality, mouth-watering food as heading up activity in the kitchen is head chef, Gareth Phillips (Greens in Didsbury and Benares in Mayfair). The restaurant is over three floors and appeals to both diners and drinkers with a plush bar area perfect for relaxed drinks. The food is superb and is budget-friendly with a two course menu operating Monday to Saturday before 6pm for just £11.95. The Sunday dinners are awesome too so don’t forget to head there if you’re craving Yorkshire puddings. L 49-51 Thomas Street, Manchester, M4 1NA
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More and more, Manchester is attracting big names from the bright lights of the capital and one such name is Tatiana Hair Extensions who have just opened a salon in the Northern Quarter. Those wanting glossy, volumised locks need look no further. Fresh from the city streets of Kensington, Tatiana – who has a legion of celebrity clients including Cheryl Cole and Jamelia – feels that Manchester is the place to be. Using her own specialist technique, she is renowned for creating beautiful, natural looking heads of hair. She also offers a specialist hair loss service for clients.
Tatiana was featured in a BBC 3 documentary entitled ‘Whose Hair Is It Anyway?’ where she travelled to Russia with Jamelia examining the hair extensions industry and the most ethical way to source hair. Ladies wanting to add length or volume need only to head along to see Tatiana (and her little dogs) at her boudoir-esque salon and be transformed! L
56 Port Street, Manchester, M1 2EQ www.manchester.tatianahairextensions.co.uk
New to Manchester
Tatiana Hair Extensions
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Great Little Place Maclures Barbers
New to Manchester
Facebook fans may already be aware of Great Little Place. Created by three guys it is a forum for recommending alternative and exciting first date venues.
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Away from the high street clones, this is about getting interesting places on the radar. Now the world’s great little places are set to be uncovered, guys or girls never have to resort to typical pizza joints to try and impress a potential partner. Everyone is welcome to pitch in their opinions on great little places, resulting in a league of options should the time arise when you need to find somewhere to take a date, or even fancy trying something new with mates. If you’d rather stay away from the slushy candlelit dinners and want a suggestion on where to go on a Sunday evening that doesn’t involve copious amounts of alcohol then this is the place to get that valuable information. Great Little Place has acquired 80,000 fans on Facebook world wide in a short time and the guys behind the concept have already had offers from literary agents about producing a guidebook for dating. L www.greatlittleplace.com
Guys are you seeking the perfect haircut? Well, Large has uncovered a hidden Manchester gem. Maclures Barbers has a salon out in Didsbury but also one just on the outskirts of the city centre near to Manchester Fort bringingfantastic cuts to the Men of Manchester without the city centre price tag. Nick, the owner of Maclures has been cutting hair for 23 years and providing bespoke hair cuts to every male that walks through the doors. Whether it’s a 1950s style, textured scissor cut, a cutting edge style or just the popular short back and sides – Nick has trained all of his team to work with clients to make sure they get what they ask for. Maclures has built up a loyal customer base by providing a tailored and personal service and customers rarely stray. Prices are very reasonable, starting from £6.50 and never topping £13.50. Maclures Barbers at Wash and Glow Car Wash, 210 Cheetham Hill Road, Manchester. Open 10.30am-5.30pm, Monday to Saturday. Just call in or phone 07590 619 571 to make an appointment. L
Riverford Organic has just launched in the city centre, providing fresh vegetable boxes straight into your work place. Long gone are the days of rushing to the supermarket on your lunch break then battling the crowds with bags full of heavy veg on your way back. Make life easier and get it direct. Riverford Organic is based from Stockley Farm in Cheshire, a popular visitor attraction in the North West and worth a visit if you are ever over that way.
Once you’ve tasted fresh organic vegetables it’s difficult to go back to supermarket alternatives. Those who receive the boxes get their fresh veggies accompanied with recipes to inspire their cooking and get creative juices flowing in the kitchen.
New to Manchester
5-a-Day Direct to the Office
Boxes start from £8.95 including free delivery. To find out more visit www.riverford.co.uk/stockley or call the farm on 0845 600 2311. L 13
Large Socials
It’s official, Large readers love pub quizzes! As we go into our second year it’s amazing to see how our reader socials have grown especially the pub quiz with more and more people in attendance each month.
Entry is £4 per person and includes a glass of wine on arrival and pie and peas in the break. Teams of up to 6 people and don’t worry if you’re in smaller numbers, we can pair you up with another group.
Thanks to our prize partners The Printworks and The English Lounge for hosting us and for the pie and peas we devour each month!
RSVP-ing is essential to socials@largemanchester.com.
May’s pub quiz is on Wednesday 19th May and kicks off from 6.30pm with the quiz starting at 7.15pm. It’s prizes galore for the lucky winners, not forgetting the all important ‘Play Your Cards Right’ in the break.
Calling all Agencies!! If you work in an agency and fancy taking on fellow Manchester agencies in a battle of the brainiest, then we have a special agency pub quiz on Thursday May 6th for you to take part in. Get together your colleagues (brainy ones means you’ll have a better chance of winning!) and join us. Email socials@largemanchester.com for more information. L
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www.LargeManchester.com
Wistful Wondering 16
Jon McClure
Unconvention Factory in Macclesfield – May 8th Macclesfield’s Heritage Centre will be transformed into a hive of activity this month it hosts the Unconvention Factory, this giving local creative talent the opportunity to work with influential and iconic figures in independent music, to record, design and release and album in only one day.
The participants will be responsible for steering reputable bands through the whole record label process; the planning, recording, designing, marketing and distribution of a remake of Iggy Pop’s classic album The Idiot, featuring tracks from I Am Kloot, Reverend Sound System and The Whip.
The Unconvention team are looking to find the most creative minds in the hometown of Joy Divisions tragic hero Ian Curtis on the 30th Anniversary of his death.
Participants will spend the day working with cultural figureheads including Har Mar Superstar, Peter Hook and Brian Travers from UB40 in addition to open discussions with
I Am Kloot
promoters, musicians, marketers and music industry execs. At the end of the day, an exclusive gig will be staged by a selection of the musicians and every participant will walk away with a fresh pair of Converse and a fresh perspective on music. The Unconvention Factory is part of a wider festival celebration of Joy Division and Ian Curtis running in Macclesfield through the summer from July 29th to August 7th so if you’re a fan, you know where to go. To apply for a place on the program head to www.unconventionhub.org L
Gallops
BAFTA Award Winning Theatre in Liverpool
Wistful Wondering
The North-West can proudly boast a splendid range of theatre productions and one such show is by award-winning writer Jonathan Harvey, who makes his return to the stage with Canary.
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Award winning Hettie Macdonald also returns to a partnership with Jonathan as director. Laced with magical touches and pitch black humour, Canary is an unflinching story about family, honesty, and forbidden love spanning four decades. The production premieres at the Liverpool Playhouse from Friday 23rd April to Saturday 15th May. Spanning three generations Canary is a tragic, comic and surreal exploration of the changing attitudes towards homosexuality set against the changing backdrop of modern Britain from the 1960s to the present. Harvey explores politics, policing and attitudes towards sexuality throughout all echelons of society during this period of great transformation. This play is definitely worth taking a trip over to Merseyside to see. Tickets are available www.everymanplayhouse.com L
Manchester Spring Market Spring is in the air and this month from 8th to 25th May, the Manchester Spring Market will be taking root in St Ann’s Square and winding its way down to Exchange Street and New Cathedral Street. Nearly 100 stalls will be decked-out in flowers and will sell everything from arts and crafts, photography, textiles, jewellery, fine food and drinks. The market is the perfect place to mooch about and enjoy the spring sunshine. Sit back and quench your thirst with a fresh smoothie or a nice cuppa. You will also find an assortment of cuisines and food to buy including a barbeque, game pie, chorizo sausage, paella, fresh curries, Dutch waffles, jams, chutneys, handmade liquorice, cakes, fudge, pancakes, cheeses, olives and herbs. There will be live entertainment on every day with a steel drum band, opera singers and Morris dancers. What a lovely way to enjoy the outdoors! Open daily from 10am to 6pm.L
If you fancy a trip outside of Manchester then head to Southport for the fourth annual Food and Drink Festival.
Southport’s finest restaurants are taking to the streets to serve ‘festival versions’ of their signature dishes for just £4 each – bargain!
Highlights of this year’s festival include celebrity chefs such as Simon Rimmer taking to the festival stage to share some simple, yet delicious recipes with visitors.
There will be an abundance of festival markets happening across the town including the local producers market featuring delicacies such as fudges, cheeses and ostrich burgers, the Italian market with a wide variety of authentic Italian goodies from olive oil to pizzas and the Continental markets where the whole of Lord Street in the town will be decorated with a huge array of European goods.
In the festival pavilion, Southport’s best restaurants, chefs, breweries and chocolatiers will be performing demonstrations throughout the day, teaching the tricks of the trade so you can pick up ingredients at the festival markets and then try new recipes out at home. Also new for this year is the festival food court with a difference where
www.visitsouthport.com /foodanddrink L
Wistful Wondering
Southport Food and Drink Festival – 13th to 16th May
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Piccadilly Craft & Gift Market Where: Piccadilly Gardens When: 30 April/1 May & 7/8 May Transforming the edge of Piccadilly Gardens into a delightful diversion for weekend shoppers, the Craft and Gift Market takes place over two weekends (Fridays and Saturdays) in April and May. It's a browser's paradise, where creative wares include Nepalese clothing, handmade greetings cards, beautiful bath products and soaps, photography, jewellery and fashion.
Art and Book Markets Where: St Ann's Square When: 25 & 26 June Get far away from the usual hustle and bustle of traditional markets with these two hidden independent gems that will sit alongside each other. The Art Market features only original pieces of art, and includes paintings, prints, photography and glass art all for sale by the artists themselves. Alongside the art, at the Book Market you will have the opportunity to buy literature directly from the UK's leading independent
publishers, as well as sample the latest emerging talent in spoken word from the Northwest. This is a unique opportunity for readers to discover new writers and to support publishing and writers working at the grass roots. www.manchestermarkets.com
National Vegetarian Week 24th-30th May
To celebrate Large visited two of Manchesters best offerings
Tummy Rumbles
The Greenhouse 331 Gt Western Street, Rusholme, M14 4AN
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The Greenhouse has been around since 1983, serving up delicious vegetarian food to those who know where to find it. This small restaurant is easy to miss as it’s situated in a quiet residential area off busier Wilmslow Road. The slightly shed-like appearance of the exterior could do with some sprucing up but trust me; once you taste the food, all will be forgiven. The restaurant boasts an extensive menu, taking its influences from exotic Indian to old fashioned British cuisine. Portions are plentiful
and boast a home-cooked feel. The chef clearly pays attention to detail as demonstrated in the tasty home-made dressing that accompanied our starters and the unusual addition of East Asian root vegetable mooli and sweet pickle tinori in our side salads. The eclectic menu is also reflected in the restaurant’s decor, which combines hand painted murals with an abundance of faux plants, not to mention a doll - Rowena the Pendle Witch - who hangs down from the ceiling. Team all this with the Celtic music which resounds throughout the venue and you’re bound to be a little mystified, but what The Greenhouse lacks in coherence it makes up for with charm.
To start, I opted for Spicy garlic mushrooms (£4.25) cooked in red capsicums and chilli while my guest tried the Sweet potato and feta pâté (£4.95) from the specials menu, then proceeded to coax the chef into giving her the list of ingredients as it tasted so delicious. For my main course I tried the vegetable curry named Pav Bhaji (£8.45). As a lover of Indian food I was eager to see how the vegetarian version measured up. I was impressed by the unusual flavours, and with pitta bread substituting greasy naan and wholemeal rice instead of basmati the meal was far kinder to my waist-line than a traditional calorieladen curry. My guest tried the Mediterranean wellington (£9.85) served with new potatoes and vegetables. The dish perfectly combined the robust flavours of Mediterranean vegetables with delicate pastry. If you’ve got room for desert there’s plenty of choice. The Sticky ginger pudding (£4.45) and Champagne sorbet (£3.95) were divine. Although this restaurant lacks the polish of many of Manchester’s eateries, its diverse menu and irresistible charm make it well worth the visit. L Large rating 8/10
Tummy Rumbles
As a carnivorous individual my guest was rather sceptical, but was surprised by the sizeable portion and substantial flavour of the dish
Greens 43 Lapwing Lane, West Didsbury, M20 2NT Situated in West Didsbury, Greens has been a front runner on Manchester’s restaurant circuit for decades. Co-owned by TV Chef Simon Rimmer, its polished interior and contemporary menu provide the restaurant with a slick feel, making it a great choice for sophisticated diners.
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The restaurant’s menu is minimal and showcases a small variety of vegetarian interpretations of contemporary classics such as
Lancashire Hotpot (£11.25) and Lasagne (£11.25). Having said that, what it does, it does very well, providing scrumptious food and faultless presentation. Prices are on the steep side, but the restaurant offers a special menu all day Sunday and Monday and 5.30pm to 6.45pm Tuesday to Friday, where you can get three courses plus a glass of wine for £15.95. To begin with I tried the Spicy red pepper hummous (£5.95) which came accompanied with toasted pitta bread and olives. Though delicious, the hummous didn’t have much of a kick to it, so those with
milder taste buds needn’t be put off. My guest opted for Crispy oyster mushroom salad (£5.95). This oriental-inspired dish came with pickled ginger and cucumber and is great for anyone wanting to try something different. For main course I tried the Red Thai curry (£10.95) which came with sticky jasmine rice. Fragrant and creamy, the dish was packed full of a variety of vegetables, meaning I wasn’t missing my meat fix. My guest opted for Black pudding and lentil casserole (£11.50) accompanied by cornbread. This dish featured locally sourced black pudding comprised of barley and beetroot juice amongst a medley of vegetables and lentils. As a particularly carnivorous individual my guest was rather sceptical about the meat-free meal, but was pleasantly surprised by the sizeable portion and substantial flavour of the dish. This is a great choice for vegetarians and non-vegetarians alike who are looking for great quality food and professional service. Be warned though, you may have to book at a weekend as its solid reputation has resulted in a large volume of regulars. L Large rating 7/10
Queer Up North 18th – 31st May 2010
Goings on in the City
Queer Up North is 18 this year and this month one of the UK’s most ground-breaking festivals presents an outstanding line-up of theatre, cabaret, comedy, art and music. To mark its coming of age, Queer Up North is bringing back some key works from the festival’s history in new and developed productions. The extensive programme, running city wide for 14 days, also features world premieres, new commissions, old favourites, and provides a platform for new artists. In a festival preview, there will be a re-working of the highly acclaimed 2006 performance Susan and Darren. Dancer Darren Pritchard and his mum Susan will be reflecting on the changes in their relationship since the first time they performed. Join the pair as they throw a party in Sachas Hotel, complete with bar, disco and buffet from 30th April to 8th May.
Once the festival is in full swing, highlights include Christopher Green’s QUN Big Birthday Bash with an interactive extravaganza and subversive homage to that most Northern of institutions – the working men’s club. Host Chris will be joined by a dream team of party guests including Stockport housewife Mrs Barbara Nice and other friends. The event is on 23rd May, 7pm at The Carlton Club.
From 26th-31st May, La Gayola – The QUN Spiegeltent will be returning to Sackville Street with an outrageous line-up of cabaret, burlesque and music including: Justin Bond, Taylor Mac – Meow Meow and a full length show from Empress Stah, who proves that diamonds are indeed forever. For full details and to book tickets visit www.queerupnorth.com L
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La Gayola – The QUN Spiegeltent will be returning to Sackville Street with an outrageous line-up of cabaret, burlesque and music.
Goings on in the City 27
Goings on in the City
This independent, innovative festival of new sounds proves that it is possible to put on a world class event, in the most unusual of spaces.
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Jesca Hoop
Sounds From The Other City – 2nd May 2010 Chris Buck
This year it’s twice the size, and features Jesca Hoop (Elbow collaborator), ATP recordings Alexander Tucker, riot girl pop from Hotpants Romance, NME new music faves Egyptian Hip Hop, spoken word from Neil Bell (of Shameless/Dead Man's Shoes), Chrome Hoof and Migayi and more. Jo Rose
Taking in a wealth of formerly unused venues in Salford, near to Salford Lads Club (which was famously pictured on the Smiths' Queen is Dead album sleeve) this independent, innovative festival of new sounds proves that it is possible to put on a world class event, in the most unusual of spaces.
Goings on in the City
Celebrating its 6th birthday this year, Sounds from the Other City new music festival has kicked off the careers of the Ting Tings and Marina and the Diamonds, and last year included a stage hosted by Radio 1's new music promoter, Huw Stephens.
Running from 3pm to 3am around Chapel Street, Salford, tickets are £15 and available from www.quaytickets.com and Piccadilly Records. For full details visit www.soundsfromtheothercity.com
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Live Lyrics
Delphic – Live at Sankeys Manchester wonderkids Delphic played a blinding homecoming show at Sankeys on 17th March. The guys have made their mark as the new boys on the music scene in 2010 and rightly so.
Imagine a hint of New Order and their 80’s synthesizer friends mixed with the rave vibe from The Klaxons.
The band had already outgrown Sankeys (they also have an upcoming gig at The Ritz) but the crowd, although packed in, were adoring and awestruck. Those less acquainted with Delphic need to know that their sound is totally unique. Imagine a hint of New
The crowd was a real mix of middle aged folk, eager to see the latest up and coming talent on the music scene and probably draw on the 80s vibe, to students trying to crowd surf and being far too energetic but loving what these guys are doing for music and the Manchester music scene. It was inspiring to see how well these guys have done in such a short time considering their sound is so unique and not particularly mainstream. It seems big things are on the cards for Delphic and expect giant leaps from them in the coming months. L
Live Lyrics
Their album Acolyte was released at the beginning of the year and slowly the boys have been releasing tracks. Doubt and Halcyon (their latest single) have had much airplay and recognition across the board, provoking a gimme-more reaction in most music lovers.
Order and their 80’s synthesizer friends mixed with the rave vibe from The Klaxons and throw in the dark, moody grunge of Muse and you are on the right lines.
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one amazing venue
one great night out
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Example
Live Lyrics
Tap ‘Example’ into Google and you get lots to sift through, but one link worth a click is www.trythisforexample.com. Example burst onto the music scene a good few years back but his popularity has escalated since last summer with the anthemic ‘Watch The Sun Go Down’. After stretches supporting Lily Allen and Tinchy Stryder (he actually pulled in more of a crowd to Tinchy’s gigs), he is about to embark on a solo tour which hits the Manchester Academy on Wednesday 19th May. Large had a chin-wag with Example as he took a break from shooting the front cover for his new album...
Large: So tell us what a normal day in the life is like for you?
I’m inspired by people like Faithless, Prodigy, Blur and Kasabian so I like to say I’m the electro version of Blur. 34
Example: “It’s just mental! I’m shooting in Fulham today which is where I’m from so at least I get an extra 20 minutes in bed in the morning! The last 5 years have been manic. I’ve been rapping since I was 11 then I started putting out demos when I was 21. I put my first single out in 2004 myself and then I signed to Mike Skinners label in 2007. That was a massive high but then the label shut down so everything changed. Then I got signed to Ministry of Sound in 2009 and it’s been mental ever since. I think my next day off is in November!” Large: You say your music is inspired by true life events, tell us about your new single Kick Starts...
Example: “Kickstarts is about falling out of love and then you realise what it would be like to lose someone and then the feelings kick start. I write from experience. US rappers talk about drugs and
guns-that’s not my life. I talk about having fun partying and women.”
Large: You’re playing at Ibiza Rocks which is a mixed bag of musical types, how do you summarise your own sound?
Example: “I’m inspired by people like Faithless, Prodigy, Blur and Kasabian so I like to say I’m the electro version of Blur. My music is pop-influenced but its adult-inspired so younger ones love it but adults appreciate the sentiment of the song.”
Large: How has life changed for you in the last year?
Example: “Just that I’m much busier but I can still go out and stuff. I just wear my hair flat and keep things low key. At home I just do normal things, cook, go to the gym...I don’t do the wild partying, falling out of clubs thing. When I’m on tour performing, that’s my party.”
Large: The new album ‘Won’t go Quietly’ is out in June, what can we expect?
Example: “It starts poppy, moves to more story-telling in the middle and ends in a rave!” The new album ‘Won’t Go Quietly’ is out in June. Example plays the Manchester Academy on May 19th.
AMAZING FOOD RS & DRINK OFFE ! TS GH NI TH BO
Hungry Pigeon Festival – 28th to 3
30th May
It’s nothing to do with those pesky flying vermin lurking on every street corner; Hungry Pigeon is actually the music and arts festival taking over the Northern Quarter at the end of the May bank holiday weekend.
Established by four of Manchester's biggest music promoters, the team had worked individually with the likes of Arctic Monkeys, Bombay Bicycle Club, The Kooks and many more and decided to work together to create something huge. Its first year was a roaring success with 15,000 people attending over the weekend and The Travelling Band, Ten Bears and Kid British leading the outdoor stage. The festival was the only Manchesterbased festival nominated for the UK Festival Awards this year. For 2010, the line-up is pretty damn impressive with Athlete headlining on the Piccadilly Gardens outdoor stage on Saturday 29th. Spread over 20 venues, bars and cafés in the Northern Quarter, Hungry Pigeon’s biggest attraction is the 5,000 capacity stage in Piccadilly Gardens (where Athlete will be playing).
Live Entertainment
It’s nothing to do with those pesky flying vermin lurking on every street corner but Hungry Pigeon is the music and arts festival taking over the Northern Quarter at the end of May bank holiday weekend.
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Live Entertainment
The event kicks off on the Friday night at Moho Live with Reverend Sound System, Karima Francis at Night and Day and The Long Cut at Roadhouse. Liam Frost closes the festival on the Sunday evening at Band on The Wall plus much, much more. Entry to the Piccadilly Gardens stage is free but indoor events do require either a day or a weekend ticket, which are available from www.ticketline.co.uk and www.seetickets.com. You can also get them in person at Piccadilly Records. Weekend tickets cost £25.00 and day tickets £12.00.
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There is also a fantastic arts program running alongside the
music with an afternoon event on Saturday 29th May at Brit Art Gallery in the Northern Quarter. Manchester photographer Paul Wolfgang Webster, who has shot many a music institution including The Libertines, Bez and Shaun Ryder and Badly Drawn Boy will be opening up the gallery and treating guests to his memoirs and inspirations. Opening the arts program on the Friday evening is a special exhibition by noted Mancunian photographer Karen McBride. ‘XPOSED – A Decade of Manchester Music’ delves into Karen’s work with the likes of Robbie Williams and The Tings
Tings across the mediums of black and white film to digital photography. For more information visit www.hungrypigeon.com L
Large Competition
Large has a pair of weekend tickets to give away to one lucky reader. All you need to do is email editor@largemanchester.com and tell us how much weekend tickets cost?
Karima Francis
Eurocultured 30th to 31st May
Live Entertainment
Eurocultured Street Festival returns to Manchester for the 7th year with an anticipated attendance of 20,000. The festival takes the form of a street festival on New Wakefield Street, off Oxford Road in the city centre. It’s a festival of European music, live art and dance with artists lining the streets, two outdoor stages, loads of food options, live music and DJ sets taking place day and night in all of the many surrounding bars and clubs.
Highlights from the arts program include artists from Germany, Spain and Switzerland coming together to paint live alongside some of Manchester’s finest artists.
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On the dance side, Malasson, direct from Seville, will be showcasing their unique blend of flamenco and cabaret. There will also be an international break-dance competition all day Monday featuring crews from Germany, Spain, Holland and Finland.
If music is more up your street, the headliners for the main stage on Sunday are Swedish psych rockers ‘Dungen’. It’s their first show in Manchester for over four years and their live shows are not to be missed. Also on the main stage are Little Dragon from Gottenburg for their first show in Manchester since appearing on the hugely successful Gorillaz album, Plastic Beach. The main stage finishes at 10pm on Sunday but there will be an array of after parties going on. Also piggy-backing on a craze that’s taking over New York and London, ‘Larkin About’ will host a program of games, chases and treasure hunts bringing playful experiences to the people of Manchester. www.facebook.com/larkinaboutmcr Tickets are only £5 each day or £8 for both days and you can get them from www.skiddle.com For full listings visit www.eurocultured.com
Live Entertainment
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E-Tailors
Fashion Forward
Retail shopping is one of the great British past times, certainly up there with whinging about the weather and kicking back at the local watering hole. Yes, we rarely need an excuse to venture out for a spot of clothes shopping, but it has to be said that with a high street spilling over with stores, having to endure endless queuing, cramped fitting rooms and obnoxious sales assistants can become a bit tedious, especially if you risk the high street on a Saturday. Fortunately, recent technological advances mean we are now able to shop online from the comfort of our own homes. E-Tailors take the hassle out of shopping; a simple click of the mouse and that pair of Adidas Originals you’ve been pining for will be on their way to you within 48 hours. Most big name brands have an online store built into their website, making fashion accessible to all. What’s more, many online stores or e-tailors, as they are often referred, offer discounts when you buy online - proving a valuable resource for students. 42
ASOS.com (As Seen on Screen) is the UK’s largest e-tailor and a pioneer of the online store. Delivering high street fashion alongside designer wear, ASOS boasts a number of unique features including a fashion blog and individual catwalk model videos (offering that extra bit of reassurance when trying to determine how that top is going to look).
E-Tailors take the hassle out of shopping; a simple click of the mouse and that pair of Adidas Originals you’ve been pining for will be with you in 48 hours
Boohoo.com is a site specifically aimed at young women, supplying fun sexy fashion at low prices. Boohoo has a fashion forward ethos, drawing inspiration from the catwalks and filtering them to create fashion which is on-trend yet affordable, something that has certainly contributed to its growing popularity amongst the fashion brigade.
Many of us less accustomed to online buying are dubious about not being able to try before you buy; however, the majority of online stores have simple returns policies.
Fashion Forward
Zucci online is one of the best e-tailors for men; this online store offers a myriad of labels from Lyle and Scott to Dior - prices range according to the brand but there is a wealth of choice and Zucci’s site is particularly easy to use.
So there’s no need to suffer the trauma of a Saturday in retail hell, searching for that elusive size in a sea of jumbled fabric - the simple solution is to shop online! L Words by Natalie Shaw 43
Rainbow Brights for Spring/Summer
Fashion Forward
Harvey Nichols seasonal fashion shows have become a key highlight in the city’s fashion calendar. Their recent Spring/Summer show was packed full of colour, colour and more colour. With the grand backdrop of the Urbis, Harvey Nichols collaborated with renowned abstract artist Helen Steele, to produce a dramatic backdrop for the show – a bright paint-splattered scene, complimenting the colour strutting up and down the run way.
The front row was typically filled with Manchester’s celebrities, all eager to see what the new trends are and ensure they don’t make fashion mistakes and end up on the ‘What Not to Wear’ pages in the media. The key trend for the guys is Italian Riviera chic, double denim and Brit Pop inspired brights. For the ladies, electric blue seems to be the colour of the season alongside pretty corals and pastel pinks.
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www.harveynichols.com Cathedral Walks, Manchester L
cupcakepalace.co.uk
Free delivery to Manchester City Centre
t Style Stree April
Fashion Forward
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A slick transition into Spring/ Summer was welcomed by fashion’s elite with navy and white united once again for a nautical theme which has seen flashes of red merge with horizontal stripes to trigger an influx of sailor inspired designs; neckerchiefs and boat shoes proving subtle but novel additions to an outfit. Horizontal stripes weren’t the only print to dominate Manchester style, with a mixture of checked prints proving their versatility. Be it bold blocks of colour, quintessential Celtic checks or lumberjack inspired shirts, the trend stretched across jackets, trousers and skirts to form a mosaic of colour.
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Yet most exciting of all, fashion became tinged with nostalgia. Playful prints – reminiscent of school sun dresses – played a sweet homage to our childhood innocence; reflected in April street style via a medley of cotton playsuits and shorts. As fresh tones and soft fabrics break through, street style forms a look indicative of the looming festival season, where checked prints will continue to reign supreme. Words by Natalie Shaw
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Forever Manchester 48
THIS IS NOT CHARITY
Forever Manchester The original, modern city; the city that split the atom; the birthplace of the first programmable computer, the Happy Mondays, Herman’s Hermits, the Smiths and the Hacienda, a place that has changed the world with an almost embarrassing abundance of innovations, creativity and pioneering ideas.
Many of our local neighbourhoods are amongst England’s most deprived. Marginalised through poverty, ill health, isolation & abuse.
Yet many of our local neighbourhoods are amongst England’s most deprived.
But there are 1,000s of people who epitomize that Mancunian spirit of change, people who spot things that are going wrong in their street and want to do something about it, running a boxing club in their spare time, showing people how to grow their own food on an allotment, taking young people off the streets and changing their lives. But these local people need cash. Not for themselves but for equipment and for hiring venues and paying bills. Forever Manchester raises money locally and invests it in grants to support these local people who are making change, improving our communities forever.
Forever Manchester
20 years of regeneration have changed the face of modern Manchester: implausibly wealthy football clubs, The Trafford Centre, Salford Quays, Manchester International Airport, a redeveloped City Centre, academic excellence and a proven ability to stage world class events like the Commonwealth Games and Manchester International Festival.
Marginalised through poverty, ill health, isolation, abuse and sometimes just by being born on the wrong side of the fence. In Greater Manchester around 200,000 people are living in disadvantaged circumstances
If you have a passion for Manchester join us and be part of a new generation helping to secure the future of our communities. Give us your money, or your time, or your voice. Put your money where your heart is.
www.forevermanchester.com L
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Sweat It Up, Work It Out
Pump it up! Body Pump was recommended by a friend at the gym who said it was a tough but fantastic workout. The problem is that said friend just happens to be a complete gym-bod, so when she says something is tough, you know she means it.
Body Pump worked out muscles that I didn’t even know I had, and although I struggled during the first session (and the second, and the third) by the fourth class I began to notice improvements in my strength. I was even complimented on my toned arms!
After thinking I was going to be the only woman, I was pleasantly surprised to see the class filled with a mix of people from mummies to silver foxes.
During each hour-long work out you lose around 600 calories, and the fast paced music keeps you motivated and energised. Designed to entice men into the aerobics room, the class can appear intimidating to someone who has never encountered a barbell before.
Looking bewildered by the step platform, mat, pole and selection of weights laid out in front of me, I wondered what I’d let myself in for, but when the tunes started pumping out, I felt a little more at home. And although I never saw myself as the type of girl to ever hold a barbell, or even know the real name for one, it all came surprisingly easy. Body Pump strengthens your entire body and the combined workout of squats, lunges, presses, lifts and curls, works on your biceps, triceps, chest, back and shoulders. This makes sure that no muscle is left untouched, allowing for all the more pain the morning after.
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The routines are straightforward repetitions which work on key areas of your body. Repetition may sound easy, but don’t be fooled!
The routine is designed to work out every muscle and push you to the limit, but it does make you feel surprisingly good and if I’m getting any closer to gaining a body like Megan Fox then lets face it, I’m in it for the long haul! L Words by Susie Burnett
Sweat It Up, Work It Out 52
Manchester has hungry dancers and is alight with inspirational hip hop talent
Manchester Welcomes Dance Royalty With mega star Rihanna back in town in a few weeks, her hugely talented Hip Hop teacher and dancers are taking time out from the tour to come and share their techniques at Sunshine Studios. Rihanna’s teacher, Bryan Tanaka who is also Beyonce’s principle dancer, will be sharing some of the choreographies used on stage with would-be Hip Hop dancers at Sunshine Studios on Saturday 15th May. Bryan spent the last year touring with Rihanna and featured in her "Umbrella" video. He has also worked with Beyonce and Mariah Carey to name but a few pop mega stars.
Bryan has developed a close relationship with Sunshine Studios and describes Manchester and its hungry dancers as “alight with inspirational hip hop talents.” Anyone who is interested in joining Bryan’s masterclass at Sunshine Studios’ city centre premises on Newton Street from 1pm to 6pm on 15th need to apply to secure their place. Bryan will then be sprinting over to the MEN Arena to join Rihanna on stage. For more details, please visit www.sunshine-studios.co.uk or follow on Twitter: www.twitter.com/SunshineDance
Help Is At Hand... You go to the gym but after a while the same exercise routine becomes a little repetitive, your enthusiasm dries up and so do your results.
Is Your Body Bored?
Here’s a basic plan for changing your exercise routine every 2-4 weeks, which will keep you from getting bored and get you the body you want! Phase
Exercises Sets per per session exercise
Load Reps (% of Max)
Stability
7
2-3
65%
20
Medium
1
Growth
5
3-6
75%
8-12
Slow/Med.
1-3
Strength
5
4-6
85%
4-6
Slow
3-5
Circuit
6-8 per circuit
2-4 circuits
65%
8-10
Fast
2-5
Endurance 5
2-3
60%
20-25
Medium
1
Power
4-6
30%
1-5
Explosive
3-5
5
Speed of Movement
Rest (Mins)
Understanding the table... A stability phase is best performed using an exercise/swiss ball to provide safe instability (performing exercises standing on one leg or with your eyes closed, if safe, also works), and through testing your core muscles With a circuit you’re doing 6-8 exercises back to back before resting.
Load is the amount of weight you’re using. Rest is the amount of time you need to rest for between sets of repetitions or circuits Most of all, remember to have fun! Try to include exercises which involve pushing, pulling, lunging, squatting , bending and twisting in each workout!
Book a FREE 30 minute consultation now! 54
For one-to-one health, nutrition and fitness coaching, including guaranteed weight loss, please email Matt Brereton-Patel at matt@3dpts.com, call 07971 192357 or visit www.3dpersonaltraining.co.uk
We
Hair
Bespoke & traditional mens hairdresssing at Wash and Glow Car Wash, 210 Cheetham Hill Road Open 10.30-5.30, Monday to Saturday. Call 07590 619 571 to make an appointment
Celebrating 25 years of travel expertise ! Delivering unrivalled personal service with friendly knowledgeable staff to meet all your travel needs. Visit our newly refurbished office on Oldham Road, Manchester Telephone: 0161 2287363
www.misselliestravel.co.uk 72-86 Oldham Road, Manchester M4 5EB ABTA 83465
Reducing crime in the city centre
Message from the Police
The Neighbourhood Team recently secured an ASBO on a woman who had been causing problems in the city centre, her conditions were breached and she was arrested which demonstrates how we are working to remove anti-social behaviour from the streets of Manchester.
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My team has also been tackling begging, targeting some of our most persistent offenders and have also been clamping down on street prostitution and kerb crawling, issuing letters and warnings to those suspected. There have been some significant arrests made in relation to drugrelated crime and robbery over the last few weeks, and I would like to emphasise the importance of being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables out of sight to make you less likely of becoming a victim of crime. We have also warned shoppers recently regarding a spate of thefts around city centre cash points, where offenders queue behind customers observing their pin numbers while using equipment that traps the card to remove cash from their accounts by deception. Stay alert whilst withdrawing your cash and make sure the person
behind you can’t see your pin or ideally use a cash machine inside the branch itself. We are working hard to deliver the Policing Pledge, which is our commitment to you. If you have any questions or queries you would like to raise, please contact the city centre team on 0161 856 3221 or email a1apt@gmp.police.uk. For more information on Neighbourhood Policing visit www.gmp.police.uk Stay safe, Jo
noisebox event systems & studio hire
pa & dj equipment: cdj’s, mixers, mics etc. sound engineers for gigs, clubs & tours recording studio & 24 to 48 track mobile setup backline, lighting, stage & projection rentals dj & sound equipment repairs & installs for your next event or project: contact the noisebox office info@noiseboxsound.co.uk / tel. 0161 272 7272
Large Outdoors an outdoor pursuits club open to anyone who enjoys getting outdoors. Every weekend we travel to some of the UK's best National Parks. Why not come and join us?
Highlighted events list:
Large Outdoors
Large Walking: Snowdonia Walk - Sun 2nd May Hebden Ale Walk - Sun 9th May Hayfield - Sun 30th May
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Large Discovery Perfect for beginners: Indoor climbing - Thurs 27th May Ice Climbing - Sat 29th May Large Weekends Lakes Walking - 14th - 16th May
Large Social Pub Social - The Britons Protection Weds 5th May Pub Quiz - Didsbury Thurs 13th May Further Info: For further details on any of our events either log onto www.largeoutdoors.com or call our office on 0161 235 7272.
Large Outdoors News then heading to Blue Parrot for a Steak and Pint night on Tuesday the 11th. For full details of all of these socials please visit the 'LO Socials' section of Large Outdoors. Membership now available: We have now introduced a voluntary membership scheme to Large Outdoors offering you a whole host of exciting discounts and member only benefits. For a full list log on to www.largeoutdoors.com
Photo - Sue Langford
Large Outdoors
After feedback from members who wanted to have the chance to meet up away from the walks and the great activities we do, we've launch a series of member socials. These are a great chance for members and anyone interested in joining the group to get together and have a natter. On top of our regular table at the Large Manchester pub quiz at the English Lounge on May 19th we will be enjoying a pint at the Britons Protection on the 5th of May from 7pm, joining Orca divers for their charity pub quiz in Didsbury on the 13th of May and
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From China with love...
Love from MMM
I’ve just got back from a trip to China to visit my nana’s ancestral village, which is about an hour outside Shanghai. When I got to Manchester airport, all flustered and late, I found that my suitcase was 6kg over the limit
At £30 per kilo my Dad made me open it to see what I could take out. He quickly found my big bottle of Vimto that weighed 4.5kg. I just won’t travel anywhere without it and, I admit, I did wonder for a moment whether I could afford the extra £120 to take it with me. We compromised by me getting my Dad to go to the “drop off” zone and pour 2/3 of it away. Then, by not taking my jeans and some toiletries, I was able to go happily on my way knowing that I had my Vimto to keep me going in deepest rural China! As I said, you can take the girl out of Manchester… Just before I left for China, I attended the March “Thirsty Thursday” event in The Private Room at the Restaurant Bar & Grill. It’s all sleek and modern and I felt very sophisticated. I love these kinds of events. Loads of familiar faces, free wine and, this time, I got taught how to make a Cosmopolitan by the barman. SJP would have been proud of me but I’d be even prouder if they’d followed my Dad’s recipe and added Vimto. Anyway, I’m off to blow the volcanic ash out of my hair… getting home has been quite an adventure… Noodles & Toodles, Wonton
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Vimto