Absolute Brighton Jan 14

ISSUE 107. JANUARY 2014

Idris

Elba The pride of playing

Nelson Mandela

The Day the Dome crashed The Absolute Food & Drink

Directory

Resolution Solutions Will Stephen Grant and Zoe Lyons keep theirs?

A Healthier

2014 New Year Fitness and Diet Tips

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08

clear background

Issue 107. December 2014

purple strip

Publisher: Alan Prior

white strip purple outline for when purple background is not suitable - with purple text edging?

Editor: Ian Trevett ian.trevett@absolutemagazine.co.uk

07584 023635

pantone purple: 2623

Fashion & Beauty Editor: Kate Morton kate.morton@absolutemagazine.co.uk

Sales Executive: Luke Thacker luke.thacker@absolutemagazine.co.uk

07568 336402

Food and Drink Executive: Anya Zervudachi anya@absolutemagazine.co.uk

07596 337828

Assistant Editor: Dan White

Designer: Frida Clementz

Designer: Hannah Goudman-Peachey Distribution: Nick Pigott

Absolute Publications Ltd The Pinnacle Group Premier House 11 Marlborough Place BRIGHTON BN1 1UB Tel: 08707 707 765 Fax: 08700 052 082 info@absolutemagazine.co.uk www.absolutemagazine.co.uk

PINNACLE

Black body-con bodysuit, £89, Fox and Rose. Shell pink gown, £158, Hope and Harlequin. Silver and rose pearls, £300, Jeremy Hoye. Stockings, £9.99, She Said.

08. Fashion It is the time of year to revamp your lingerie collection and with Valentine’s Day in sight, our exclusive fashion shoot this month showcases lingerie at its most beautiful and sauciest, with fantastic photography from Stephen Perry.

EXCELLENCE IN VISUAL COMMUNICATION

Absolute Brighton and Pinnacle would like to thank the advertisers that appear in this publication for their support, and wish them every business success.

The contents of this publication are believed to be EXCELLENCE IN VISUAL COMMUNICATION correct at the time of printing; nevertheless, we cannot endorse, and readers should not rely solely upon, the accuracy of any statements or claims contained herein, without prior consultation with the service provider.

PINNACLE

Cover Photo by Stephen Perry www.stephenperry.com

26

welcome from the editor...

It is hard to believe that a whole year has passed since my first issue as editor of Absolute. It has been a whirlwind; a busy and very enjoyable year.

26. HEALTHY FOOD After a season of relaxation and indulging it is time to get healthy and make good on those New Year resolutions. Don’t panic though, we have the answers to all your diet concerns inside.

In 2014 we will continue to showcase the finest aspects of our city. Brighton and Hove is, after all, a great place to live. It is a city teeming with innovation and creativity. We never struggle to find interesting people to write about.

38

38. IDRIS ELBA The Wire star tells Absolute about taking on the role of a lifetime in the new biopic, Mandela: The Long Walk to Freedom.

At A Glance 8 Fashion 21 Beauty 23 Health & Fitness 35 Stephen Grant 37 Zoe Lyons 38 Idris Elba

The magazine is firmly established as the city’s lifestyle magazine and it has gone from strength to strength. Thank you to everyone who has supported us in 2013.

42 Peter James 44 Food & Drink 59 Music 60 Art 62 Cinema 63 History (Cover Story) 64 Travel

I hope you have a prosperous new year and that the city benefits from the talk of an economic recovery.

It hasn’t been an easy time for the independent retailers who help make Brighton such a vibrant place. We need to make sure we do all we can to entice visitors to the city and help our local economy thrive.

We will certainly be busy - this month we launch Absolute Business Magazine, a lively and vital publication for the county’s business community. Please email me if you would like to find out more about this exciting new title.

Happy New Year

Editor

Street Style

New York Street style Mens Fashion by Igor Srzic Cartledge Fashion stylist www.personal-style.co.uk│igor@personal-style.co.uk Photos: Mangue Banzima│www.quistyle.com

How to look different and dapper?

Sometime we need to break the rules and try something new and get out of our comfort zone.

Walking around the streets of New York I meet Mangue Photographer.

With over 15 years of experience in New York City fashion, client services, management and consulting, Mangue Banzima, is the founder of Qui Style, a fashion and lifestyle blog that documents and forecasts current trends on the streets of New York City.

A passionate shopper of luxury and custom made to measure, and an enthusiast of people and their personal style, Mangue captures signature looks and original personalities in every street fashion shot.

Mangue recently served as fashion editor and stylist for several Fall 2013 Numero Russia magazine spreads as well as chief stylist to Andre Leon Talley for the Rizzoli publication, Little Black Dress (2012).

As a creative and business consultant, Mangue Banzima also advises companies and professionals in the arts, law, business and fashion worlds.

Mangue enjoys surveying the streets of different cities and currently lives and works in New York City.

- Fashion|Promotion -

January 2014

│15

HOT MODELS FLYING HIGH

Next Hot Model 2013 winners experienced the highlife at the Seychelles Islands They say that looks aren’t everything but for up and coming fashion models Charlotte Royal and Alex Marlow their aesthetic aspects have afforded them everything and more.

The entrants of 2013’s Next Hot Model competition strutted their stuff before a judging panel that included various industry giants, before being crowned the new faces of the south coast fashion elite.

Victory for the duo earned them essential exposure, exclusive contracts with top model management company PRM London and the opportunity to fly

18│

January 2014

off to a photo shoot in the Seychelles. During their visit to the exotic islands Charlotte and Alex were able to experience the highlife of a professional model, enjoying first-class cuisine in glamorous locations as well as fitting in a full schedule of shoots at various locations all over the 3 Islands during their 7-day stay.

The two victors beat over 2000 aspiring models from over eight cities in order to be crowned winners and, with the competition designed to discover, nurture and mentor male and female modelling talent, the future looks promising for these aspiring models.

- Fashion -

- Fashion -

January 2014

│19

It’s time to Fresh Handmade Parties At Lush Brighton we can help make your special day or event go with a bang! (or at least a fizzing bath ballistic!) We have 3 Party Packs to choose from, all of which can be tailor made to suit you and your guests and are suitable for little ones birthdays, hen or stag nights or even a get together and pamper with friends. Pop in-store or send us an email for more details.

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HEALTHY

With the start of a new year, take a look at how you can keep to your resolutions in 2014.

Words by Daniel White As 2013 expired and a new year began it was a time for retrospective analysis of the past 12 months; the good, the bad and the ugly. Naturally, whenever one era ends and another begins it brings about an appreciation for a clean slate.

New Year Resolutions

Is your skin in need of a pick me up after the hectic festive season? We have so many fresh products to pamper and nourish your face, hair and body. Pop in for a little relaxation and a cup of tea while we help get the perfect products to help kick start your year. BB Seaweed (below) is full of mineral rich seaweed to combat dry patches and rose to soften and soothe the skin.

Whether it was that extra helping of Christmas pudding, a second cigarette over lunch or that one drink for the road you didn’t need, the festive period is a time for indulging and enjoying good times with loved ones.

However, as of January 1st it is time to cut out the excess and get to work on those begrudgingly tiring New Year’s resolutions. While the low temperatures, biting winds and left over turkey may not make a healthy start to 2014 seem appealing, now is the time for change.

If any of the above applies to you do not fear, take heart. Your objective is a noble one. Not only is exercise able to improve your health but it is also good for you mind and overall well being.

Beware though, that dream of a leaner, fitter you will not come over night but, if accomplished, will do wonders for your health. So now is the perfect time to grab those running boots, that tennis racket or the gym bag and get to work.

Community Events Our best selling Charity Pot Hand and Body Lotion is just one of the many ways in which we help support local grassroot projects in the Sussex region.

Last year we helped raise funds for Lumpy Lodge, St Anne of Wells Garden and Balcolmbe’s Frack Off campaign. If you want to find out if we can support causes close to your heart pop in and speak to one of the team.

LUSH BRIGHTON 41 East Street, BN1 1HL (01273) 774 700 brighton@lush.co.uk

Ignorance in healthy eating can be just as detrimental to your wellbeing as a lack of exercise, though, and with a few small changes to your diet you can make a big difference to your body’s nutrition.

Although making healthy meals and participating in exercise are regularly disregarded due to a ‘lack of time’ there are very few of the majority that do have this time spare.

Rather, with the risk of heart disease reduced by 80 per cent, diabetes risk reduced by 90 per cent and cancer risk slashed to 50 per cent by following such simple rules, how can you afford not to be healthy this year?

New year…New You Thai Massage / Beauty / Well-being

A visit to Chutima Therapy promises to be a Rejuvenating experience.

For Absolute Magazine readers only

An ideal place to unwind, shape up and discover a renewed sense of well-being.

Indulge yourself or loved one with our exclusive offer in January 2014 DIY Spa Days …Create your own spa treatment Select treatments from the following and combine it for a relaxing and rejuvenating experience D.I.Y 1 Choice of Two treatments 45 min for just £35 D.I.Y 2 Choice of Three treatments 75 min for just £49 D.I.Y 3 Choice of Three treatments 90 min for just £59 Foot Massage/Head and Scalp Back, neck and shoulder/Indian Head Massage Fast Track Facial/Natural Face Lift Back massage with Hot Stone/Thai Aromatic oil massage

106 Trafalgar Street, Brighton BN1 4ER Book online www.chutimatherapy.co.uk e-mail : chutima@chutimatherapy.co.uk

or call 01273 682129 Follow us on Facebook / chutimatherapy

CAFE RAWR

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WHAT DO I GET? Packages include a free consultation to create your ideal Cafe RAWR combinations. Giving you approximately 70% of your daily allowance of nutrients.

seven years, and have been experimenting on myself and willing clients over the years, to know it’s not just about the exercise.

STARTED? For any enquiries or for information about getting started and feeling cafe RAWR fantastic, visit caferawr.co.uk you can also contact me at info@caferawr.com or call me on 07793 022836.

CAFE RAWR is a superfood and juice Delivery service to your door

I’ve travelled around the world and sampled various detox retreats and spas and learned a lot about the truth behind raw food nutrition and super foods. Tried and tested, I’m still here.

by Adam Lewis

Happy New Year! This is the time of year everyone’s feeling ready for a change, and every magazine is trying to make you feel guilty for over-indulging during the holidays and telling you how to quickly try and fix it. Well, I’m going to be different. I’m going to reign in any feelings of desperation you may have and tell you what not to do!

First and foremost, now’s not the time to do anything drastic as this normally leads to something unhealthy and unsustainable. So, forget setting the New Years Resolution to follow that new fad diet and get in shape quicker than ever. Any responsible trainer will tell you, ‘moderation DIETING DON’Ts

and patience is the way to make lasting change’, whereas ‘extreme practices will soon lead to issues’.The body takes time to adjust, fast changes just are not possible, so look to make small steps consistently.

When it comes to diets the general rule is if it requires you to do something peculiar, or is packaged as ‘system’, avoid it and go back to the tried and tested basics of healthy eating.

I know what your thinking; you want fast results, more than basic healthy eating can achieve alone. I agree eating clean doesn’t create such fast dramatic results, but that’s exactly why you should do it.

DO THIS INSTEAD

Don’t cut calories too severely

Aim to cut back 200-300 from your normal levels

Don’t skip meals, you’ll miss out on nutrients and develop hunger cravings

Start the day with breakfast and eat small frequent planned meals during the day

Don’t cut out dairy completely

Swap high fat dairy for low fat

Don’t snack on empty calories like crisps or chocolate, you had enough at Christmas!

Snack on fruit and veg to fill your tummy without the calories

Don’t follow a diet where you eat only Up your protein intake to help you feel one type of thing or eliminate something full for longer vital Don’t open yourself to temptation when Plan your meals in advance and make hungry sure you have in what you need Don’t cut out carbohydrates completely

Try reducing ratio of sugars and increasing starchy low GI sources instead

Don’t see fat as the enemy, you actually need a certain amount

Reduce intake of visible fat such as trimming meat or using less butter

Severely limit alcohol. Why not try a ‘Dry Keep your energy levels up with good January’? hydration Don’t be lazy and rely on convenience food

Make the time to cook more real meals from scratch

Brief Bio: Adam Lewis holds a degree in Sport & Exercise Science, a Masters degree in Human Nutrition (with Sports), is a Strength & Conditioning Specialist and has been a certified personal trainer for over 10 years. Adam provides a mobile fitness service around Brighton and Sussex. www.sportfitco.com

- Health|Fitness -

Yes you may have spent most of December treating yourself to every snack, drink and extra serving available but there’s only so much weight you could have gained last month. In which case a month to two of healthy eating will easily do it. But if you’re also trying to rid yourself of many years of excess, no diet can do it quick. Be in it for the long haul and look for impressive long-term results by forgetting extreme sacrifice diets that you just won’t enjoy or be able to endure for very long.

In order to lose weight you need to combine a moderate exercise plan with sensible practices for cutting back on the food and drink you eat, known as a a state of ‘negative calorie balance’. Moderation is key here however, because our bodies still need a certain amount of calories and nutrients each day to function and to give us the energy to move and exercise. That’s why severe restriction is just creating another problem for your body causing deficiencies, energy levels to drop, lean muscle tissue to be reduced, and your immune system to be compromised, meaning you’ll end up tired, rundown, ill, unhappy and unlikely to continue with any form of long-term plan.

For some ideas on eating healthily while losing weight check out my list of ‘Do’s and Don’ts’ in this article. I hope these tips are useful to you and wish you every success in 2014.

January 2014

│25

Vietnamese food is light & simple

An interview with Juliette Wall, co-founder of Pho What is pho?

Pho (pronounced fur) is the Vietnamese national dish; an aromatic, nutritious and delicious rice noodle soup. Our stocks take around 12 hours to prepare – this authentic preparation is the key to the stocks retaining all their goodness and developing their own distinctive tastes and aromas. We think pho is the perfect comfort food, hangover cure or cold remedy – it’s the best noodle soup in the world!

Is Vietnamese food healthy?

We think so. Most of the dishes on our menu are low in calories and low in fat despite being huge portions. Some of my favourites include: • Pho Ga (chicken pho soup): 397 calories, 6.6g fat (1.5g saturated fat) • Pho Tom (tiger prawn pho soup in veggie stock): 307 calories, 1.7g fat (0.1g saturated fat) • Bun Bo Hue (spicy beef pho soup): 465 calories, 16.7g fat (3.8 g saturated fat) Even our fried starters like Nem Hai San (a large crispy spring roll packed with crab, pork and tiger prawn) and Muc Chien Gion (tender fried baby squid) are an innocent indulgence at under 200 calories per portion.

(our three mushroom pho is always a huge hit), including the hot and spicy ones. Starters and sides like vegetarian summer rolls

All our pho noodle soups are a good source of 10 of your vitamins and minerals including vitamins C, B3, B6, folate, iron and magnesium – nutrients which all contribute to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue.

and stir-fried morning glory are also suitable for vegans and our customers love them.

What inspired you to open Pho? My husband Stephen and I fell in love with noodle soup when we went travelling to Vietnam. We love pho because it’s about adapting

Do you cater to celiacs or vegans?

Many of our customers have specific dietary requirements, which is never a problem! Our menu is very friendly for vegans and those with celiac disease. All our noodles are rice

your meal to your personal taste. You can enhance your food as you eat, adding fresh herbs and a variety of sauces, to create a dish that is distinctly yours, so the same bowl can be different every time.

noodles and our wrapping papers are rice papers. We even use potato starch, rather than wheat, to bind our meatballs.

Soy sauce is really the only ingredient on our menu with

12 Black Lion St, Brighton BN1 1ND 01273 202403

gluten in, and in most cases that can be substituted for a

www.phocafe.co.uk

gluten-free option.

@phorestaurant

We also have some delicious and unique options for vegans.

All our vegetarian pho soups in veggie stock are also vegan - Health|Healthy Eating -

January 2014

│27

guestlist What?

The launch of Be At One Brighton Where?

Castle Square, Brighton Why? To celebrate their launch and treat guests to a night of 2-4-1 cocktails

If you would like to see your event on these pages email us on guestlist@absolutemagazine.co.uk Photos: Claudio Saroldi

January 2014

│31

MARATHON QUESTIONS

It is important when looking to complete a marathon that the build-up and preparation start early. This does mean that consistent training through the winter period is unavoidable to get you to where you need to be by the time the Brighton marathon is here.

32│

January 2014

- HEALTH -

Below are just a few pieces of advice to bear in mind whilst embarking on your winter training: 1. It is imperative to follow a marathon training programme appropriate to both your current level of fitness and time you can dedicate to training per week. Do not shun those nasty interval/fartlek days.

2. Pay extra attention to warming up and stretching. The cold weather raises the risk of injury, so spend a few minutes longer than usual warming up and stretching. Remember to invest in some suitable warmer winter training clothes including layers and windproof tops.

3. As tempting as all of the chocolate and typically fatty foods that you will find yourself surrounded by over the Festive period aim to keep to your normal healthy habits. Take on some energy drink or snack 30 minutes prior to your running sessions or a breakfast of slow release carbohydrate (such as porridge). Post run foods (fast release carbohydrates and protein) plus adequate hydration will help in the recovery of your body.

4. On frosty days avoid the risk of injury on slippery, icey roads by training indoors (treadmills, cross trainers and spin classes are all good ways of maintaining aerobic fitness), or preferably wait until later in the day when the ice has melted.

5. Some runners find the cold dry air can make their lungs feel painful. Breathing through a scarf for the first 5-10 minutes of a run can help to moisten and warm the inhaled air, gradually acclimatising your lungs to the nippy outside air temperature.

1. Running on treadmill or outside?

Both provide similar benefits but there are differences; No wind resistance is experienced whilst running on the treadmill and the movement of the belt provides some forward propulsion. Both of these factors mean that you burn approximately 5% less calories and your running style is slightly altered when running on the treadmill compared to outdoors. To overcome these factors set the treadmill incline to 1% and ensure that at least 60% of your training is done outside.

The treadmill is easier on your joints and less unpleasant in bad weather. Running outdoors will provide you with more race-like conditions and is easier on the mind.

2. Should I run every day?

No. It is essential that you have a break from running on at least one or two days each week. Recovery days are as important as training days because they allow your body’s energy stores to replenish and damaged tissues to repair.

Rest days also help to reduce the incidence of overuse injuries (such as shin splints or stress fractures) as your body has a chance to adapt to the extra stresses it has been under and the real benefits of your training are reaped.

Follow the programme which you have chosen as closely as possible.

3. Should I carry liquids?

Staying hydrated is essential for runners of all levels. Dehydration leads to fatigue, poor performance and muscle cramps. In hot weather it also contributes to heat stroke and

heat exhaustion. The best plan is to always maintain your body at a healthy level of hydration, drinking 1 to 2 litres of water per day to avoid being thirsty. In addition, try to drink ½ litre of water about 1 hour before a run. If you are planning a long run then in addition you should drink about 150mls every 20 minutes.

4. How to avoid cramps?

Leg muscle cramps are often due to dehydration. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol the day before a run and consider using sports drinks to aid hydration.

A “stitch” is usually a sign that your breathing is either irregular or insufficient. Try to maintain steady deep breaths during your run and avoid shallow breathing or becoming out of breath.

5. Should I run the day before a marathon?

It is not advisable to undertake a long run the day before your marathon. It is better to rest and take is easy – your fitness levels will not fall. However, if you feel anxious or nervous, a 20 minute slow run may help ease the tension and help you relax.

6. How long does it take to train for a marathon?

It depends on your current level of fitness.

Experienced runners may only need to increase their existing training schedule for 3 months. A beginner should consider at least 6 months of training, slowly building up the distance and speed.

- Health -

7. Why am I gaining weight in the build- up to the marathon?

There are different reasons why this could be happening.

Firstly it could be due to a gain in muscle mass.

Muscle is heavier than fat, so as your muscles increase in size with training they may become heavier.

Secondly it could be due to glycogen storage.

Whilst training, the body stores glycogen – fuel for the muscles. For every ounce of glycogen the body will store 3 ounces of water. This extra water may show as a weight gain.

Thirdly some athletes do overeat. This may be due to an overestimation of their nutritional needs, or some people feel that they have earned a treat after a long run and could make unhealthy choices.

8. How do I avoid hitting “the wall”?

“Hitting the wall” often occurs at about the 20 mile mark. It occurs when the glycogen (energy) stores within the muscles become depleted. It results in runners having to either significantly reduce their pace or walk. The best way to avoid it is to do regular long runs every week during training. Regular long distance runs increase the body’s ability to store glycogen. Aim to reach a 20 mile run during training, and also try to run the last half of your long distance runs at marathon pace.

For more information or to make an appointment please contact 01273 987517 or visit www.nuffieldhealth.com/hospitals/ brighton

January 2014

│33

Pieter Grobbelaar gives his thoughts on

Opalescence Go

“Opalescene Go”

is an all in one system that gives you reliable results in a very easy to use format.You can start using it from the day you visit us so no waiting. And the best thing about it is the price!

Having realised that many dental practices now offer tooth whitening, patients expect to see quick results, with easy applications and minimal ‘in-the-mouth’ wear times. Practitioners therefore require safe, reliable and consistent products that they can prescribe.

Opalescence Go combines everything that is current in whitening. It’s convenient, comfortable, ready-to-use, disposable, hygienic, effective and predictable. And what’s more its European compliant 6% PF hydrogen peroxide formula is delivered in a unique tray, which custom forms in the mouth using heatactivated polymers, for optimal results and instant application.

Concordia Dental is offering readers of Absolute Magazine this product for an amazing £199 so give us a call now to book your appointment!

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We are proud to be a centre of excellence for a complete range of general, cosmetic and aesthetic dental treatments that generations of our patients have come to rely on. Concordia Dental Healthcare also offers every client a relationship based on openness, trust and understanding with complete freedom of choice in our treatment options.

We believe your smile is one of your most valuable assets, which is why we are dedicated to helping each of our individual patients look after and make the most of theirs, with personalised, expert and gentle dental care of the highest professional standard to suit all budgets and requirements.

Our aim is to ensure your visits to us are as pleasant and stress free as possible.

Talk to Dr Pieter Grobbelaar

01273 711507 hove@concordiadental.co.uk | www.concordiadental.co.uk Concordia Dental, 39a Salisbury Road Hove, East Sussex, BN3 3AA

your smile says it all...

New Cheers Resolutions

Stephen Grant I

t was only recently that I realised why New

in December is eye-wateringly naughty.

incomprehensible to your fellow man. It’s the

Year’s resolutions exist: as a super-effective

In a general sense, I heartily approve. I’m all

equivalent of ‘Go jogging’ being written as ‘Sell

green light for sidelining your physical/

for targets, encouragement, and to-do lists.

the car and run everywhere’.

mental/emotional behaviour over Christmas.

I am surrounded by to-do lists. I abbreviate them as TDL’s. I number each list. I have a

It’s society’s hardest balancing act. The choice

“I’ll do this in January!” is a near-perfect

master TDL of what TDL’s take priority. I

to constantly consume a drug to a level

synonym for “I won’t do this in December!”

draw boxes before each item so they can be

that increases personal enjoyment without

and as a result, people go off the rails over

recipients of satisfying ticks that are always

impacting on all the things that drug is

the festive period. Admit it, we all know

performed with a theatrical flourish. That’s

scientifically proven to impact upon. If you’ve

someone - usually that special person

right ladies, I’m all that, and then some.

ever visited a historical brewery, or better

we say hello to in a mirror - who has let

still, a still, then you’ll have felt like you’re

their standards lapse recently. From being

And despite this, I won’t do New Year’s

somewhere truly magical and life affirming.

boisterous, to overdoing it on the food, all

resolutions, as I don’t feel I have to apologise

Which is odd, when you realise you’re

the way up to illicit shenanigans with off-limits

for myself. Still unconvinced? Let’s just check

effectively in a socially acceptable version of

workmates, you’ve managed to convince

2014’s most common new year’s resolution...

a meth-lab.

yourself it was fine. Because it was Christmas.

“Drink less”. Why? Because it’s the gateway to everything else on your list. ‘Go jogging. Get

Looking for the ultimate challenge in 2014?

So, fresh from page1of the modern guide

a new job. Find a girlfriend’... all significantly

Make ‘drink the ideal amount to make

to guilt management, we, try to ‘offset’ our

easier when you’re not submerged in

everything better and nothing worse’ the

debauchery with enforced good intentions.

Jagermeister.

sole entry on your new year’s resolution

We make a list of things that will counteract

list. Homer said it brilliantly: “To alcohol! The

our bad behaviour under the guise that a new

Also: notice the wording there. ‘Drink less’.

cause of, and solution to, all of life’s problems.”

year is a new start. Trust me on this; if you

Not ‘give up drinking’. That’s even less of an

That was Homer Simpson by the way - the

know someone with a particularly lengthy or

option. It’s just too... serious. Too medical.

8th century BC Greek poet Homer never

challenging resolution list, their charge sheet

Too final. It’s the step that would render you

reached those heights.

“Drink less. Not give up drinking. That’s even less of an option. It’s just too... serious. Too medical. Too final.”

- Culture|Columnist -

The monthly column from our windswept Brighton gal

Zoe Lyons Resolution Revolution

I

for one am slightly relieved that fewer and

detoxed and more motivated version of

me not only “unimproved” but thoroughly

fewer places accept cheques these days. It’s

yourself wither and die in the half light of mid

unimpressed with myself and with a copy of

not that I am adverse to papery antiquated

winter nights. Here is a small selection of my

the Tolstoy classic as a door stop.

payment methods, its not that at all. I am

own never for-filled resolutions from previous

something of a show off so I actively seek

years, they may ring some bells with you.

out things that require my scrawling over

Here is the plan folks. This year why don’t we just try to all do something that gets us

dramatic signature. Its just that it usually takes

I will go to the Gym three times a week.

through the month of January that doesn’t

me the first nine months of a “new” year to

I will learn French (I have the Rosetta Stone

require much effort or sacrifice. I am aiming

get the date right. I have just about mastered

programmes to prove it).

for less purge and more pleasure. Ladies and

it by the time we are once again ready to belt

I will learn an instrument, probably the

Gentleman a very happy New Year to all and

out a drunken version of Auld Langs Syne

trumpet.

may you have a fabulous January or “month

and I have to get used to writing a new year

I will become more financially savvy.

of a thousand cakes” as I will be calling it.

in the tip right hand corner.

I will do some charity work.

I will learn to knit.

Zoe hosts Bent Double the first Sunday of

The older you get the quicker the years seem

I will do a Vietnamese cookery course.

every month at Brighton Komedia.

to whip around. Old Father Time appears to

I will attempt to be happy everyday.

Follow Zoe on Twitter @zoelyons

have had a midlife crisis all of his own and

I will appreciate Art more and have a good

has bought himself a high powered Ducatti

working knowledge of all things culturally.

motorbike with which to speed through the

cutting edge so that I can participate more

months. As the starting gun of another year is

confidently in dinner party chat.

fired wildly into the night air and we all gallop

I will eat less meat.

off into 2014 some of you dear people will

I will start flossing.

be tempted to make this the year the year

I will not drink on a school night..... (I don’t

that you make resolutions to better yourself.

actually attend school anymore so this one was doomed to fail from the off!)

Friends I urge you, don’t bother. It is not that

I will spend half an hour a day meditating.

I am a defeatist, no, I like to think of myself as

I will read War and Peace.

a well practiced realist. I have enough bleak Januarys under my belt to know very well

Not one of these self improvement attempts

that burgeoning bright ideas about a fitter,

has ever survived past the 3rd January, leaving

“I will not drink on a school night.....

(I don’t actually attend school anymore so this one was doomed to fail from the off!)”

- Culture|Columnist -

THE MAN TO PLAY

MANDELA

In an emotive period for racial and political relations the world over, Idris Elba steps into perhaps the biggest role he will ever take on.

Words by SHAUN CURRAN

F

or a boy from Hackney, London,

reflection on the biopic which is now set to

never be overstated. He has already been

it was a job beyond his wildest

become one of the biggest films of the decade.

nominated for a Golden Globe, with the

dreams. Cast as the lead role

Events have been uncomfortably well timed

Oscars almost certain to follow suit.

in the Nelson Mandela biopic,

for Elba, who shot to fame in Baltimore gang

Mandela: The Long Walk to

drama The Wire, and has since wowed UK

Even before the sad news of Mandela’s death,

audiences in BBC series Luther.

Elba could barely contain his pride at being

Freedom, it had been the surest sign yet that Idris Elba was well on his way to becoming a major Hollywood player.

38│

anointed with such a significant role.

The 42 year-old is now firmly on the map of film producers Stateside, with his portrayal of

“I’m very, very proud to have the role. I can’t

Yet December 5, 2013, changed all of that. Not

the freedom fighter and South Africa’s first

put it into words. When I was growing up,

for good nor bad, yet the death of Mandela

black President, whose influence as the most

he was this amazing, inspirational figure. His

at the grand old age of 95 has put a new

significant political icon of this generation can

influence can’t be measured.

January 2014

- Interview -

“I gave everything I had to capture the soul of Mandela, to be able to tell a story that celebrates his achievements as well as his spirit.”

“I’ve been acting for 20 years, and this is the

Without wanting to tempt fate in terms of

scene in front of 600 Sowetan extras. I felt

role of a lifetime. I really haven’t processed it

what may following this momentous role,

this immense and beautiful responsibility to

in my mind but it was definitely a momentous

surely Elba now has the potential for further

be faithful to the grace and presence of the

moment. I thought it was a joke - I couldn’t

landmark roles. Bond, anyone?

man. I gave everything I had to capture the

understand why anyone would come to me. I

soul of Mandela, to be able to tell a story that

didn’t think I was accomplished enough as an

“I’m not sure you can’t think of a greater figure

celebrates his achievements as well as his

actor to play someone like Nelson Mandela

to portray, especially for an African or black

spirit.”

and that’s the truth, but I think I’ve surprised

man. It has been such an honour for me, not

myself, just like I have surprised a few other

just play to Mandela, but to be the man who

Mandela’s influence was arguably the turning

people along the way.

gets to play in the film which is the story of

point of South Africa’s modern history.

his life, not just one aspect of it. I get to play

Imprisoned for 27 years from 1962 for his

“Morgan Freeman, Denzel Washington - these

him from his twenties to his seventies, and as

political stance against Apartheid. He went on

people have given massive performances of

an actor you rarely get a chance to cover that

to become the nation’s first black President,

this nature; perhaps it’s my turn. I actually didn’t

kind of range in a man’s life.”

inspiring a global wealth of black people to

respond to the offer for two or three weeks. I

fight for freedom and equality.

wasn’t sure if I had that kind of performance in

Playing Mandela comes with great responsibility:

me but I knew I had to do it. How could I turn

what emotions were going through Elba’s

“It would seem that I wasn’t completely right

down the chance to play Nelson Mandela?

mind when he began working on the project?

to play him,” admits Elba. “I don’t look like him,

Then I got an email from Zindzi, Mandela’s

and one could argue that I was too young and

daughter, who just said, “We’re thrilled… my

“Oh it was very emotional on some days

not experienced enough. If I had an Oscar,

father and I are thrilled.”

during filming. One very difficult day came

people would say, ‘Yes, perhaps — perhaps —

when I went on the set and I had to do a

you can play him.’ But I’m essentially a television

- Interview -

January 2014

│39

actor who has done some films, and this is a

shirt and the way I was walking and said, ‘Is

“I spent a night in the prison. I remember the

big trophy role to play.

that me? Did I do that? How did you get me

guard was very nervous about locking me

up there?!’

in. I was in there by myself and it was pretty

“But I think the fact I don’t look too much like

harrowing. I had to really calm down. I did have

him isn’t too important. It’s the message that’s

“What is really interesting is that people who

a telephone and if I really wanted to get out,

conveyed that is the vital part of doing the film

know Mandela very well would come up to

I could. But as soon as the guy left, I realised

justice… of doing the man justice.”

me and say, after they had seen the first few

there was no signal!”

rough cuts of the film, ‘I love how you got In a cruel irony, the news of Mandela’s death

Mandela to fill in there at the end.’ That made

Were those scenes particularly difficult to

was announced in the middle of the world

me very proud.”

film, knowing the shoot was in that exact

premiere of the film in London, giving the

spot where Mandela spent many of the most

release of the movie a perhaps unwanted

Of course, so much of Mandela’s life was

extra layer of poignancy. Does Elba know if

spent in prison in Robben Island where he was

Mandela managed to see the film before he

gruesomely tormented. The former president

“Some of the hardest moments came while

passed away?

famously revisited his place of confinement on

I was in the prison especially scenes involving

the eve of the Millennium to light a candle of

the white actors who played the guards and

“Yes, he did. I know for certain that he saw

reconciliation to his torturers. Did Elba actually

had to display the kind of brutality that was

footage from the end of the film where I’m

visit the prison during his preparation for the

inflicted on Mandela. That was tough on all of

playing him as an old man and he’s walking up

film?

us, I think.

a hill near his village. Mandela looked at the 40│

harrowing moments of his life?

January 2014

- Interview -

“I could see from the looks on their faces

wasn’t easy for me and you learn from those

that the actors hated those scenes and were

tough times. I used to get into fights all the

hesitant when asked to go as far as they

time with white kids and I got a reputation as

needed to. But I just looked them in the eyes

someone who wouldn’t take any nonsense. I

and told that they needed to go to their very

never looked for trouble, but you can’t back

core and dredge up any racism that might be

down from it either. But I was fortunate that

buried deep within, and use that for those

my teacher, Miss McPhee, thought that I had

scenes. I told them that if there was any black

talent and she pushed me towards acting.”

person they hated that they should use that and let me hear it and feel it. I needed that

Now in his forties and on the back of a great

intensity to help me get to where I needed to

performance in Mandela, Elba’s stock has never

go with my own performance.”

been higher, with The Wire star surely now on the cusp of the next phase in an already

Did Elba learn anything that he didn’t know

remarkable career. It’s not bad for someone

about Mandela during the process?

who once worked nights at the Ford motor factory.

“I was struck by Mandela’s absolute need for tidiness and order. There is no-one who can

“I’m hoping I get the chance to do more and

be tidier than him. His desk is always in perfect

more interesting films. I’ve been fortunate

order and nothing could be out of place in his

to get recognition from doing The Wire

office. He is compulsively tidy!”

and Luther but people in Hollywood don’t necessarily remember my name,” he laughs.

While the comparison is a loose one, Elba’s

“Perhaps they will now… perhaps that will all

childhood held some of the challenges

change with Mandela.

experienced by Mandela. Growing up in a rough area of Hackney, the actor had to fight

“But I don’t necessarily want to be famous. I

against some of the toughest social obstacles.

want to be known for great work. I want to be known to surprise audiences. That, to me, is

“You learn to defend yourself and not be

what is really fulfilling.”

pushed around. When my family moved from Hackney to Canning Town I stood out because I was black and tall and I was immediately picked on by the best fighter in the school. It

- Interview -

January 2014

│41

A RECIPE FOR SUCCESS Hotel Du Vin Head Chef Rob Carr tells Daniel White about life in the kitchen Photography by Olly Hearsey lionworksstudios.co.uk

44│

January 2014

- Food & Drink|interview -

How did you get into cooking?

I did a lot of cooking with my mum when I was younger and when I was at school it was either football or cooking and I wasn’t that good at football. I went into catering and I’ve been here ever since really.

Where did you train?

I left home and travelled around England and searched for jobs and just progressed from there really, trying to get lots of different experience. I worked at The Ivy, J. Sheekey; the fish restaurant, Chez Bruce, which is in Wandsworth, so it was quite exciting. I worked in London and now I’ve worked for Hotel Du Vin for 10 or 11 years maybe.

Do you use much local produce?

We try to, there’s one or two farms that we use and you build a good relationship with your suppliers. We try and work with local businesses as best we can but these

little farmers can’t supply everything. So it’s trying to get the correct combination and consistency across the board.

Do you have a cooking philosophy?

Just the quality of the produce really. We try and keep it simple, fresh and local and we’re obviously doing something right because we’re busy.

What do you do differently to others at Hotel Du Vin? We use great produce, we’ve got great service, we’ve got a good bar, a good restaurant, the food’s good, you’ve got all the ingredients for people to come out and enjoy themselves and feel relaxed. It doesn’t cost the earth but it can do if you want it to.

Is there one cooking instrument you can’t do without in the kitchen?

The rational oven we’ve got is good. They’re - Food & Drink|interview -

ovens that you can steam, semi-steam, roast, you can programme them so the oven turns off, it’s got your programmes built in, they even clean themselves!

What are three tips you’d give to an aspiring chef?

You’ve got to be enthusiastic and passionate about the food, be willing to put the effort in and have a brain like a sponge that absorbs knowledge, that helps.

What does the future hold?

I’d like to open my own place but we get looked after here, it’s a nice, exciting place to be. Brighton’s a really nice area and I’m happy here at the moment so we’ll see what the future brings.

www.hotelduvin.com

January 2014

│45

Keeping Families Together

The Grand joins forces with Brighton hotels for the Ronald McDonald House Charity The Grand, Brighton is one of the city’s hotels who are delighted to donate a number of overnight stays to the Ronald McDonald House Brighton, located opposite the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital.

The Ronald McDonald House provides free accommodation to families that have children being treated at the Royal Alexandra Children’s Hospital and the Trevor Mann Baby Unit at the Royal Sussex County Hospital. This is a specialist department for the care of premature and sick new born babies.

Ronald McDonald’s Brighton base and both are now working together to maintain this fantastic facility.

Martin Coatsworth, Deputy House Manager at the Ronald McDonald House says “We are over whelmed with the vouchers kindly donated by the hotels, which will be of great use to the families that find themselves staying with us at a difficult time. It will give them a welcome opportunity to revisit Brighton when their child is out of hospital and they are all back home as a family.”

The charity’s work keeps families together so children in hospital can get the love and comfort they need, and ensures that this difficult time for the whole family is made as easy as possible by taking out the stresses of travelling long distances and the cost of lengthy hotel stays during a child’s treatment and recovery period. The House – which opened in March 2000 - has eight en-suite bedrooms, lounge, dining area, kitchen, laundry and a small patio garden. There is also a further 10 en-suite bedrooms on the top floor of the children’s hospital.

Andrew Mosley, General Manager at The Grand adds “We really admire the work that the Ronald McDonald House does and we are of course delighted to be able to offer the families of unwell children a small respite through a stay at The Grand Brighton, after a traumatic period in their lives.”

Ryan Heal - Chief Executive of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity - was present to witness the handover of the accommodation vouchers from the Brighton-based hotels. Rockinghorse are in partnership with

www.rmhc.org.uk and www.rockinghorse.org.uk

For further information on Ronald McDonald House and Rockinghorse and how you can show your support, visit their websites

A Double Win for The Grand at The Sussex Business Awards 2013 500 of the county’s leading business people gathered to celebrate twenty five years of business excellence in December, many of whom were previous award winners themselves.

Kara Bailey – The Grand, Martin Coatsworth – Ronald McDonald House, Ryan Heal – Rockinghorse

46│ January 2014

- Food & Drink|news -

Presented by Countdown’s Rachel Riley, The Grand were delighted to win the award for Best Customer Service and the Most Sustainable Business. General Manager, Andrew Mosley, expressed just how thrilled the whole team were to win both awards. “Winning more than one category was a huge triumph. The award for most Sustainable Business really did mean a lot as we are incredibly committed towards being green and creating a strong culture of sustainability across the hotel. With our recent Gold Award from The Green Tourism Business Scheme and then a Sussex Business Award, it really is fantastic to receive such recognition. A second award for Best Customer Service for any service lead business is a huge honour, especially when in the company of the leading business people in Sussex. It was a thoroughly enjoyable evening of not only networking but sharing successes with fellow local businesses.”

Special 2-course menu £8.95 3-course menu £10.95 (not available Saturday)

Latino is unlike any other Tapas restaurant outside of Spain. It’s a Spanish dining experience packed full of flavour, offering a twist of modern day Spanish cuisine, all alongside the traditional Tapas dishes you know and love at a great value price.

40% off the food every Tuesday from 5.30pm till 8pm (A la carte Tapas dishes only, cash payments only) We offer lunch Tapas from Tuesday to Friday until 3pm 4 Tapas for £10.00, 6 Tapas for £14.50 and 8 Tapas for only £18.00 All day every Sunday, freshly made Paella for 2 or more and a starter each for only £9.90 per person We offer a party menu for 8 or more people onLy £13.90 which includes all your favourite Tapas dishes Latino offer private hire of their fabulous function room for wedding receptions, meetings or parties with seating for up to 35 guests, with menus including all your favourite Tapas dishes for only £13.90 per guest.

For more information about holding your wedding reception or special occasion at Latino, please contact the restaurant on 01273 77035

36 Church Road, Hove, BN3 2FN | latinos.tapas@gmail.com | www.latinotapas.co.uk @latinotapas

Latino Restaurant

nd hi n! be tow ue! ist n niq og s i y u ol il tel ix ta le m ck mp rt co g co pe st hin ex be met an the ry so ve of or t ha e ite, so om ur al s favo w ing our no at r y o re k fo tin r c as La ba and e in th ome C

START YOUR NEW YEAR OFF IN STYLE AT LATINO TAPAS

Are cheaper wines better?

by Simon Broad There’s been a lot of attention in the press recently on studies showing that, when tasting a cheap wine compared to a more expensive one, the average consumer prefers cheaper wines. Which begs the question, obviously, why spend more on a bottle of wine?

Part of the reason cheaper wines often ‘triumph’ in these kinds of tests is that they are usually packed with the kind of bold, easy flavours that we’re hard-wired to enjoy - some sweet fruit flavours maybe, a touch of spice, a smooth texture or a crisp freshness. Wines at a higher price point may be less bold and more subtle, and require a bit more attention, which doesn’t really work well in a ‘competition’ setting.

Are more expensive wines worth that extra attention?

Think about listening to a snatch of music in a genre you’re not familiar with - you may get an instant reaction telling you whether you like it or not, but until you spend some time getting to know that style of music, you can’t properly appreciate it. The difference is like that between rocking out to a few power chords, and listening a more complex jazz piece. Both can be enjoyable, but in different ways. A good bottle of wine should repay the attention you give it with an elegance and complexity that makes each glass a little journey in itself. It might take a little practice to tune in to what it is that makes a wine really good, but we’re talking about wine here - a little practice is no bad thing!

If you don’t often spend that much on a bottle of wine and would like to try, do so with an open mind. Invite some good friends, eat some good food, and discuss what you’re tasting.

Enjoying the wine like this will bring it to life in a way that tasting it in a ‘competitive’ setting will not. And, hopefully, you’ll find that a good wine brings the food and the conversation to life as well. It’s this - a subtle enhancement of the good, simple things in life - that a really good bottle of wine does best.

Wine shop or bar?

Both, actually...

Relaxed and fun wine tastings for groups, perfect for celebrations, corporate events, Christmas parties, etc, or just come in and enjoy a glass or two with quality nibbles and food to match.

Take a bottle away or drink here for just £5 corkage.

Glasses from £3.50, bottles to drink in from £15.00.

Discover the best value destination in Brighton for quality wine. Other drinks also available!

tengreenbottles.com 9 Jubilee Street Brighton BN1 1GE (01273) 567 176

Brighton & Hove

Barfly

Brought to you by my good friends at Drink In Brighton and The Kraken Black Spiced Rum Happy New Year all and welcome to Barfly! Over the X-mas period while I filled my boots of cheer and festive fun, I had a visit from the Kraken Hunter- a giant of a man from the deep dark heart of the Sussex Ocean. He regaled me tales of nautical drama and adventures and made me think of ways to stay on top of those January blues! So bend an elbow and pour yourself an eyeful of some of Brighton & Hove’s upcoming January shenanigans.

I shall give myself one day of rest but no

until the world has no knowledge left to

Latin, Afro Beat, Reggae, Hip Hop, and Samba.

more starting on Thursday, 2nd January

harvest from the genius souls who frequent

Having the frame of an anorexic whippet and

with my dancing feet to JAZZITUP @

this rustic and charming pocket of humanity.

the hips of a double-jointed Komodo dragon

Ancient Mariner at 8:30pm. I am informed

It runs from 8pm to late £2 entry. Join an

I will be there offering the opposite sex a

that entrance is free and Jazz flows as freely

enigmatic Quiz master with 45 years of

memory grab for those special moments

as blood let from a fattened octopus spiked

experience. The tip is: Cheat by Googling the

alone!

in the neck with a sharpened bayonet -some

answer to his favourite question “Which fruit,

seriously happening music is what the people

widely available in supermarkets and grocers,

tell me and I have no reason to disbelieve

is named after the Aztec word for testicle?”

them!

As Friday the 17th approaches I will be limbering up for the Queen Bee’s Blues Club @Western Front DJ Tramlines will

Open Mic night on the 7th at Sidewinder

play old school Rock’n’Roll & Classic R&B to

On Friday, 3rd January Sally – the “ever so

starts at 8pm and features Robin Coward of

a crowd of ‘ner do wells’ with far too much

lovely” head honcho at The Thomas Kemp

V Festival fame. They have their own in-house

energy and not enough stamina for my liking.

has led me to believe there is a DJ in the

guitar and piano so all you have to bring is

house every Friday ready to light up the

your voices. Obviously I would tear the house

coldest month of the year! It starts at 8

down with my rendition of Mike Oldfield’s

so visit with every intention of being good

Moonlight Shadow but my curfew comes

but leave late having salted your appetite for

into force relating to the car park / coffee

pretty things and ding a lings.

ice cream incident of 1997 so I would not

On Sunday, 5th January you might find me in a state of Recovery at Fishbowl’s Reggae,

be able to treat the customers to my vocal supremacy.

Ska, Rock, Soul and Jazz night. It’s a great

Come and play with me on Tuesday 7th

way to drift to the end of the weekend and

January at The Thomas Kemp Poker

soak up some wonderful tunes. I advise a few

evening starting at 8pm. Be prepared I

shots of Kraken Rum to soften the working

will take you to the cleaners, you will have to

week and take the edge of those Monday

hock your soul and you will leave empty of

morning woes!

pocket and heart. Poker is my passion and I

I am advised that equally on Sunday, 5th

play to ruin!

January “David Potter’s Pub quiz” @ Open

Friday 10th January FEVER has me at the

House will start and then run every Sunday

@Fortune of War with the best in Funky,

- Food & Drink|Promotion -

Finally, there will be a new Film Club launching this month at the Sticky Mike’s Frog bar. How civilised! While the legend that is Sally Oakenfold mixes the finest “Palomas” known to man or beast I will seek out a comfy chair and descend in cult movie heaven.

May the Kraken be with you should you decide to join us about town! Watch out for those black roses across the city as we prepare for February’s super blast of what will be an Anti-Valentine extravaganza!

- check out on the Drink In Brighton website for more info and timings: www.drinkinbrighton.co.uk

January 2014

│53

R

BY

D DE

Food & Drink

OMMEN C E

Directory Boho Gelato

Bang Bang Burrito

The Foragers

Hove Place

Drury

Coffee Tree

FunFair

B.Y.O.C

Brighton’s Original Home Of Gelato! 24 changing flavours (taken from a list of over 450!) made fresh on site daily using Sussex produced milk and cream and top quality ingredients. At least 5 non diary vegan flavours are also available.

6 Pool Valley (near Brighton Pier) 01273727205. Also stocked in businesses across Sussex.

“While many pubs are trying to serve up local grub with a seasonal twist, the foragers have gone a step further. Several steps in fact “. The Observer. Recent winners of the Brighton and Hove Food & Drink Awards 2013 & the Sussex Food and Drink Awards 2012 plus awarded an AA Rosette for past 3 years. The foragers are trailblazers in both sustainability and fine pub grub, and are therefore a must for all foodies. www.theforagerspub.co.uk

Finely sourced teas from Darjeeling, Assam, single estates, Genmai Cha from Japan, freshly roasted coffees from India, Peru and Jamaica are just a few of the delights from beverage specialists at Drury Tea & Coffee in Hove. Christmas boxes filled to order, freshly ground coffee for you to enjoy at home, all these and more fill the shelves at this hidden gem in Richardson Road. 01273 888600

FunFair Club is brightening up the Brighton night life scene. A unique themed venue with surprises around every corner.

Optical illusion hallway, gypsy caravan, bed of nails, Punch and Judy DJ booth, an adult size ball pit, to name just a few of the clubs hidden treasures.

01273 757 447

Nestled in the heart of Brighton’s North Laines lies the Jewel of Jubilee Square, Bang Bang Burrito, offering authentic Mexican street food at its best. Serving slow roasted, hand pulled meats, delicious vegetarian options and daily specials with all the trimmings, all wrapped up in a toasted flour tortilla or on a bed of rice or salad. Plus our fresh and fiery homemade salsas, guaranteed to put a rocket up your… burrito.

basement level at the top of First Avenue, just off Church Road. Renowned for a relaxed atmosphere Hove Place has earned a fantastic reputation for its excellent food and great service. The intriguing Bistro menu in particular is extremely popular! 35/37 First Avenue, Hove, BN3 2FH – 01273 738266 – www.hoveplace.co.uk

Here at Coffee Tree, we serve coffee our coffees from a state of the art 4 group Lamarzocco GB5 espresso machine. We us high quality beans from Roasted our local Kemptown wholesaler. We calibrate our grinder daily in order to always serve high quality espressos. All our baristas are trained to deliver consistent micro foam for excellence in milk prep.

Coffee Tree, 47 Gardner Street, Brighton

Unlicensed speakeasy delivering table service Cocktails. Please bring your favourite spirit with you, they provide the mixers. Also contains cinema in underground cavern showing silent movies. £20 per person for 2 hour slot. 4 cocktails each minimum.

Open 6-12pm Tues – Sat. Book online at www.BYOC.co.uk

Ten Green Bottles

Wine shop or bar? Both, actually... Private wine tastings, take away, drink in by the glass or bottle, nibbles and food to match.

Many bottles imported direct from small producers. Our £5 corkage policy makes us the best value wine destination in Brighton! Other drinks also available!

9 Jubilee St, The Lanes, Brighton BN1 1GE www.tengreenbottles.com

54│

January 2014

- Food & Drink|Directory -

FilFil

FilFil is a family run café in the North Laine. Our aspiration is to share our passion for delicious, fresh falafel. We use a well-honed family recipe, cooked-to order, served hot with a range of fresh salads and sauces. We serve it as it is meant to be, authentic and delicious.

21 Gardner St, Brighton BN1 1UP, 01273 696289

The Coffee Counter

The Coffee Counter was started by two friends with a love of Coffee and a passion for Micro-Business and Independents. Their simple aim: To serve great Coffee with a smile. Discover this hidden gem and their wonderful 5 bean blend Coffee on Vine Street, North Laines.

SSSSSHHHHH it’s a Secret!!!!

13 - 16 Vine Street, BN1 4AG Brighton07760 917716

The Marwood

The Marwood has had kitchen revamp!

Pop in and see the amazing new menu. As always, serving kickarse coffe, life changing cake, booze, breakfast, and our fabulous Christmas menu. Open 8ish-latish 7 days 52 Ship St, Brighton - 01273 382063 check out us out on facebook for our speakeasy fun filled quiz nights!

Plough Inn

Breeze

Berties’s of Brighton

Be At One

Lovely traditional village pub situation on the pond in Rottingdean. Highly regarded for very well kept local real ales, excellent gastro style pub food and hosting a good variety of quality live music acts from time to time. Typically rammed for Sunday Roast so booking early is essential!

Vicarage Lane, Rottingdean, BN2 7HD – 01273 390635 – www. theploughinnrottingdean.co.uk

‘Berties of Brighton is a wonderful 1920’s independent cafe on Bond street in the North Laine. Pop in and try one of our large range of loose leaf teas, locally ground coffees and handmade cakes.

The venue is also available to hire for private parties or if you’re after a foodie Christmas present why not check out our hampers of local produce.

01273 731300

Breeze is a lovely relaxed restaurant on Trafalgar street in the North Laine. With exposed brickwork, beautiful reclaimed clocks, mirrors, café seating and comfy banquettes. Breeze serves brasserie style food made with fresh local produce. Pop in for breakfast, lunch and dinner, or a great cocktail on those lazy evenings in the Lanes. www.breezebrasserie.co.uk 01273 693377

Be At One is a cocktail institution with bars based in Brighton, London & Reading.

Excellent service, great atmosphere and delicious cocktails served from the 147-strong menu, makes it the ultimate party bar. The daily happy hours offer great value and their highly-trained professional bartenders will ensure great time, any night of the week.

If you would like to be featured in the food and drink directory email Anya at anya@absolutemagazine.co.uk - Food & Drink|Directory -

January 2014

│55

MUSIC NEWS BIMM Sale Rumours Dismissed

Royal Blood Shortlisted

Rumours by national newspapers that the

Brighton duo Royal Blood, a.k.a. Mike Keer

Brighton Institute of Modern Music had

and Ben Thatcher, have been shortlisted for

been put up for sale have been rejected by

the BBC Sound of 2014. Tipped as one of 15

its owners Sovereign Capital. Instead, David

acts to watch next year, the two-piece join

O’Connor, marketing director at BIMM, stated

the likes of Adele and Ellie Goulding in being

that the college, which has featured alumni

nominated by the panel of 170 music experts.

including Tom Odell and The Kooks, is looking to expand the business into either Europe, the

BMC tickets on sale

US or Asia, following the opening of connected

Early bird tickets are now on sale for the

colleges in Dublin and Manchester last year.

Brighton Music Conference. The UK’s first annual conference for the electronic music market will take place from April 11th-12th at the Brighton Dome. The show aims to provide music brands the opportunity to connect with

DJ Derek has been a full-time DJ since his early fifties and learnt to blend reggae, ska, dancehall and soul so well that he has become an icon for many producers. Derek was renowned for his West Indian patois that contradicted his Bristol routes.

the electronic music scene while reaching industry professionals on a worldwide scale.

Tom Odell

DJ Derek Retires 72-year-old DJ Derek Morris has hung up his headphones for the final time after playing his final gig at Brighton’s Concorde 2 last month.

GIG GUIDE Skream – Wed 1st Jan @ Digital Beyond Hurt – Fri 3rd Jan @ The Prince Albert River Jumpers – Sat 4th Jan @ Prince Albert No Exit – Wed 8th @ The Marlborough Little Theatre Catalyst Club – Thu 9th @ The Latest Music Bar Sam Chara & The Love Interest – Fri 10th Jan @ Latest Music Bar Chris TT and the Hood Rats – Sat 11th Jan @ Bermuda Triangle

The Hundredth Anniversary

Isolated Atoms – Sun 12th Jan @ Komedia City Of Ashes – Mon 13th Jan @ Latest Music Bar Girl Band – Wed 15th Jan @ The Green Door Store Goodtime Boys – Thu 16th Jan @ The Prince Albert The Others – Fri 17th Jan @ The Brunswick

Ben Thompson – Wed 22nd Jan @ Latest Music Bar Chinese Man – Thu 23rd Jan @ Concorde Ben Sarfas Quartet – Fri 24th Jan @ The Brunswick Connan Mockasin – Sat 25th Jan @ The Haunt House of Trees – Sun 26th Jan @ Latest Music Bar Darlia – Mon 27th Jan @ The Hope

The Hundredth Anniversary – Sat 18th Jan @ The Hope The Brighton group arrive at The Hope bringing Eleanor Rudge’s airy vocals that complement the mellow atmospheric melodies so well to sooth the ear. The four-piece will be playing their classic pop/indie mix of dredging bass and rhythm guitars.

Samantha Crain – Tue 28th Jan @ Komedia The 26-year-old Oklahoma native stops by Komedia this month in support of her third full-length album ‘Kid Face’. The talented singer/songwriter recorded and mixed the album in just nine days, injecting her insightful and fearlessly honest lyrics into the sympathetic melodies.

The Shakespeare Heptet – Sun 19th Jan @ World’s End

- Music News|GIG GUIDE -

Metronomy – Wed 29th Jan @ The Old Market Outfit – Thu 30th Jan @ The Blind Tiger Aoife O’Donovan – Fri 31st Jan @ Latest Music Bar

January 2014

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Art Listings January 2014 25 January to 6 April John Skoog: Redoubt

The Warehouse Gallery Words by Jenni Davidson

F

or a city full of artists, Brighton and Hove is not exactly over endowed with gallery space, so it’s always welcome when a new one comes on the scene. And if it’s one that looks set to innovate and push the boundaries, so much the better.

The Warehouse Gallery in Brighton’s North Laine is just such a gallery. Set back from Gloucester Road in its own courtyard, it opened in December with an edgy exhibition of street art featuring the work of Zee Zee 22, Cassette Lord, Archi Ram and Funky Red Dog. The gallery itself is a collaboration between the four street artists and gallery manager and graphic designer Kevin Smith. The idea grew out of a chance relationship between Smith and Martin Middleton, aka street artist Cassette Lord.

Kevin Smith has lived above the gallery space for seven years. He used it as a studio for his work as a designer and stored stock there for his online business, but it was in need of some care and attention.

“This place was sitting here and I didn’t know what to do with it,” he says. “I toyed with renting it out for workshops or as studios.”

Step in Middleton, whose website Smith had designed a few years previously, who suggested an open house and brought in the other street artists. A few meetings later and the Beastie Toys exhibition was born in time for the Christmas Artists Open Houses in December.

So far Smith is very pleased with the results.

“It’s brought a vibrancy back to the building,” he says.

He admits that working with street artists has taken some getting used to and there have been “a few spats”.

“I worked for corporates as a designer. I thought they were mad!” he laughs.

He’s learning not to leave anything lying around

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January 2014

that he doesn’t want spray painted. “They’re real magpies,” he says.

But, says Smith, the gallery is of benefit to all of them. “It’s a positive thing for everybody. We’re all getting something out of this. They need to make money to eat. I need to make money to pay for this place.”

Far from having a long term business strategy, the collective is working on a far more spontaneous model. Originally they didn’t even know if the gallery would stay open after the open house but, with two more exhibitions in the offing for this year, it looks set to continue.

The next exhibition is an Italian deconstructivist who Archi Ram has brought in, and later in the year the group are planning a show of naked art. They have four or five artists already on board for that.

“It’s going to be quite risqué,” says Smith.

The plan is to exhibit work across all media and especially digital. Each exhibition will also have tie in workshops outside in the courtyard.

They have already held street art workshops for children during Beastie Toys and the naked exhibition will see body painting workshops for adults.

As one of the biggest private galleries in the city with two floors and an outdoor area and a suprisingly industrial vibe for the North Laine, The Warehouse Gallery has a lot of potential.

Kevin Smith highlights that it is still work in progress, but he is cautiously optimistic about the gallery’s future: “I think it should work. On paper it looks like it should work. But it might snow 20 foot of snow tomorrow and nobody comes in for two weeks.”

To find out if it does, watch this space. Or rather, visit this space and have a look for yourself. www.thewarehousegallery.co.uk

First UK solo show in a public gallery for the award winning Swedish film and video artist. There is also still time to catch Wonderland, an exhibition of works from the Towner’s collection that explore themes of space and architecture, which runs until 26 January.

Towner, Devonshire Park, College Road, Eastbourne, BN21 4JJ www.townereastbourne.org.uk

22 January, 6.30pm Lecture on sustainable design Inaugural lecture by Prof Jonathan Chapman, Professor of Sustainable Design at the University of Brighton and a key international thinker and activist on sustainable material culture.

Sallis Benney Theatre, University of Brighton, 58-67 Grand Parade, Brighton, BN2 0JY www.arts.brighton.ac.uk

13 January Short Courses at Phoenix Brighton New term starts at Phoenix Brighton.

Short courses available in life drawing, puppetry, jewellery, painting, photography and more.

Phoenix Brighton, 10-14 Waterloo Place, Brighton, BN2 9NB www.phoenixbrighton.org

1 January to 31 January INorganic: Full Circle Drop off your used wrapping paper and old Christmas cards to be turned into ‘snow’ for Onca’s next exhibition. There will also be hole punching ‘parties’ at the gallery and local organisations and cafes during January to turn used paper and card into an artwork.

Onca Gallery, 14 St George’s Place, Brighton, BN1 4GB www.onca.org.uk

- Culture|Art -

Artists Directory

Alice Maplesden

Maria Zervudachi

Alice Maplesden makes lovely, silly but useful ceramics from her studio in Hove. Her pots are hand thrown and individually decorated and make wonderful, affordable and original gifts.

She is happy to take personalised commissions. Have a look at more of her work at www.alicemaplesden.co.uk and on Facebook Alice Maplesden Ceramics.

Already established in the Tunbridge Wells area, Maria makes beautiful ceramic sculptures based on the human form and has recently joined the Chalk Gallery in Lewis. Her pieces are informed by an essence of serenity which links to her deep practice of yoga and meditation. Each piece is handmade, unique, and slow fired for strength and durability. www. chalkgallerylewes.co.uk 01273 474477

Alice Duck

Louise Brooks

Alice Duck creates quirky ceramics designed to brighten up the rainiest of days. The inspiration for her range being drawn from antique crockery ‘that your grandma might still keep on that dusty dresser’. Each piece is individually designed and handmade, giving it its own unique character, the perfect unique Christmas gift. www.duckceramics.co.uk

Louise’s striking paintings are inspired by the ever-changing sea views she can see daily from her home in Saltdean.

Each painting literally dances with light, shimmering and sparkling with the added radiance of Swarovski crystals and semi-precious gemstones.

See her latest work at Art at Five, 5 Bartholomews, Brighton, BN1 1HG. www.louisebrooks.co.uk

Justyna Neryng

Merrimaking

Justyna Neryng is a multi award winning portrait photographer. Her series “Childhood Lost” is an ongoing project where she explores notions of memory and childhood by portraying her young daughter. Justyna is now bringing her works to a wider audience by offering her own bespoke portrait service to parents and children. www.justynaneryng.co.uk

For the playful. Animal hoods, upbeat apparel and fruity accessories, all designed to add some fun to your winter wardrobe. Merrimakings pieces are worn by Ellie Goulding, Rizzle Kicks and Rob Da Bank, have flooded the fields at summer festivals and been highsellers in Selfridges.

‘Top 10 gift for Xmas’ - BBC2. www.merrimaking.co.uk

Brighton Body Casting

We create sculptures cast directly from the body and we’ll make you look amazing! World renowned artist, Jamie McCartney’s award winning studio/gallery is unique in the UK. Hands, faces, torsos or even whole bodies can be cast in anything from plaster to glass or bronze. Many of his beautiful sculptures are also for sale in the gallery and are suitable for both indoors and out. SALE NOW ON!! www.brightonbodycasting.com

To be featured in the artist directory please email Ian Trevett at: ian.trevett@absolutemagazine.co.uk

- Art|Directory -

January 2014

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The Silver Screen Absolute Cinema Guide with Bill Murray 2014 looks to be an amazing year for cinematic releases and January is certainly no exception.

The Wolf of Wall Street

after their last title fight.

Revered filmmaker Martin Scorsese directs

This has some great humour and real humility

Oakenfold from Sticky Mike’s

and I think it will reach out to all ages.

Frog Bar for her all-time top five

the story of New York stockbroker Jordan Belfort (Leonardo DiCaprio). From the American dream to corporate greed, Belfort

This month we asked Sally

films. In January Sticky Mikes’ will

3 1/2 out of 5 from me

be the first venue to host a new

goes from penny stocks and righteousness

Jose Cuervo movie night for the

to IPOs and a life of corruption in the late

city.

80s. Excess success and affluence in his early

Keep posted at

twenties as founder of the brokerage firm

www.drinkinbrighton.co.uk/

Stratton Oakmont warranted Belfort the title

stickymikesfrogbar for more info.

“The Wolf of Wall Street.”

Money. Power. Women. Drugs. Temptations were for the taking and the threat of

Sally from Sticky Mike’s Top 5 Films: Grudge Match

1. BLADERUNNER

authority was irrelevant. For Jordan and his wolf pack, modesty was quickly deemed overrated and more was never enough! This

2. DON’T LOOK NOW

12 Years A Slave

marks a return to form from Scorsese and

Chiwetel Ejiofor’s breathtaking performance

I for one think Leo DiCaprio is one of the

and Steve McQueen’s humble but majestic

finest acting talents the U.S has produced in

direction make 12 Years A Slave the highlight

the last 20 years.

of both their careers

4 out of 5 from me

Also featuring Michael Fassbender, Lupita Nyong’o, Benedict Cumberbatch, Paul Dano, Brad Pitt and Paul Giamatti this is grim but gripping stuff.

white folk in the movies – as if there’s any debate to be had – but when has it ever been truly shown? When have we had to confront, as we surely must, the raw experience

Grudge Match Robert De Niro, Sylvester Stallone, Kim Basinger, Jon Bernthal and Alan Arkin star in “Grudge Match” Director Peter Segal creates a proper comedy drama that centres on two retired boxers Billy “The Kid” McGuigan and Henry “Razor” Sharp who are lifelong bitter rivals and are coaxed out of retirement and into the ring for one final grudge match 50 years

62│ January 2014

4. GAS FOOD & LODGING 5. THE SINGING RINGING TREE

whimpering. If Steven Spielberg’s “Amistad” was a revelation then “12 years a slave” Is the revealing, the believing the frenzied feeding

Slavery often gets debated by wig-wearing

The Wolf of Wall Street

3. THE WIZARD OF OZ

of it, the hell of it, the brutality, indignity and rage? Steve McQueen’s 12 Years A Slave supplies all of the above in shattering doses, but it’s the nobility of this remarkable film that haunts you. It grabs you by the throat, shakes you and leaves you

12 Years a Slave

- Culture|Film -

and then the decaying end of the slavery picture.

5 out of 5 from me and Oscars all round me thinks!

The Dome is a Brighton landmark - and it survived far longer than another Dome in the city

I

Dome of Disaster Mike Holland on Brighton’s greatest planning fiasco

n 1832 a huge glass dome was erected on the site now called

central column, but without his knowledge the contractor removed its

Palmeira Square. It was known as the Anthaeum and was financed

temporary centring.

by Sir Julian Goldsmid MP, whilst Amon Henry Wilds was the

The very next day the entire structure collapsed with a tremendous

architect. The structure was like a huge conservatory and was

crash. Fortunately it happened one hour after the workmen had left

supported by a framework of iron ribs and girders. There were

and the only person inside was the head gardener Mr Wyatt. He heard

40,000 square feet of glass and it was the largest dome in the world,

loud cracking and rushed outside in the nick of time. Sir Julian Goldsmid

being 160 feet wide, 64 feet high and with a circumference of 492 feet.

could not even bring himself to look at the wreckage and it remained

The iron sections were unloaded at Shoreham and dragged to the site

pretty much as it had fallen for some 20 years. It was reported at the

by teams of 20 horses.

time that the botanist Henry Phillips who lived in Bedford Square

The interior was laid out as an exotic garden with gravel walks amongst

was so traumatised by the collapse of his dreams that he went blind

the cedars, palms and other rare trees, besides tropical and oriental

overnight and never regained his sight. No mention can be found of the

shrubs. There was rock scenery and a lake with fish and aquatic plants.

contractor who had been the cause of this sorry episode although I

To provide the right hothouse atmosphere there were two stoke

doubt he was in any great demand after such incompetence.

holes outside of the Anthaeum which were fuelled by using coal from

Eventually after the wreckage had been cleared Palmeira Square was

the Brighton gasworks. There were birds flying about in the trees and

constructed. It was built between 1855 and 1820 and named after

everyone concerned, especially the resident botanist Henry Phillips,

Isaac Lyon Goldsmid e da Palmeira. who had been created Baron de

were delighted with the result. The ceremonial opening was to take

Goldsmid e da Palmeira by the Queen of Portugal. He had also become

place on Monday 1st September 1833, with a band of a Lancer regiment

the first Jewish Baronet, the title having been conferred on him by Lord

in attendance. The price of admission was to have been one shilling per

Melbourne.

entry or two guineas per annum.

Originally the Dome had been planned to be sited where Sillwood

To support the weight of the dome a central pillar fastened with purlins

Place is today at the top of Oriental Place. Indeed the design of Oriental

and diagonal braces was an essential part of the plan. The contractor

Place was with the future dome in mind and it is not entirely clear why

however decided that they could do without the pillar and after much

the location was changed. Who knows but had they stuck to the original

disagreement Amon Wilds resigned as architect. Henry Phillips wanted

plan perhaps it would still be there and the rather depressing Osprey

to consult with an engineer as to the safety of the structure minus its

House may never have been conceived.

- Culture|History -

January 2014

│63

Head for the Slopes Antonia Phillips of Oliver Relations picks her selection of the finest European ski resorts

Biohotel Hermitage The owners of the newly crowned 4* superior Biohotel Hermitage, the Maffei family, like to treat everyone as guests in their own home.

Consequently, the warmth of the hospitality, the attention to detail and overall comfort here, really is wonderful. And coupled with its secluded location and uninterrupted views of the Dolomites through vast glass windows, it is little wonder that guests return again and again.

Biohotel Hermitage

Another reason could be the Stube Hermitage Restaurant with its Michelin star.

The hotel is set slightly away from the village centre, in a quiet and peaceful spot with a shuttle service to take guests to the slopes or into the village. From the bottom station you have access to 150 km of slopes, serviced by 57 lift systems.

The Spa and pool also have magnificent views of the mountains, and offer a peaceful retreat after a day on the mountains.There are steam, sauna and therapy rooms and it is well equipped to offer a good range of treatments.

Chalet Fanes Pool

Scott Dunn offers Madonna di Campiglio packages from £1,324 per person based on 2 people sharing a Junior Suite at the Biohotel Hermitage and includes return flights with British Airways from Gatwick to Verona, return private transfers and 7 nights’ accommodation on a half board basis.

Hotel Fanes Family run Hotel Fanes is set in an amazing location overlooking the quiet Italian village of San Cassiano and the impressive peaks of the Dolomites. Many of its guests are repeat due

Chalet Fanes exterior

to the incredible warmth of service, exceptional food and prime location – it remains popular with families too. Rooms are comfortable and 64│

January 2014

- Culture|Travel -

Evian Resort

stylishly decorated, and the restaurants, bar

The luxurious four star Hotel Ermitage has

adventure enthusiasts the perfect location

and living areas are cosy and welcoming while

huge roaring fires, large, comfortable sofas and

and exclusive accommodation for family and

the newly built chalets offer more spacious

armchairs that are perfect for hunkering down

friends of up to 10 people. Located moments

accommodation and are ideal for guests wishing

in with a cup of thick, creamy hot chocolate

from the ski lifts, experienced skiers will delight

to feel a little more independent but still enjoy

or a glass of vin chaud. Rooms are spacious

over Chalet Hectar’s prime position as they

the fabulous hotel facilities. The extensive Spa

and interconnecting rooms are available for

can join the home-run of the Brevent ski area

offers a wide range of treatments and boast

families with older children. Take advantage of

within minutes of finishing breakfast, and for

floor to ceiling windows with views across the

the exclusive children’s ski packages available

those less experienced, the nursery slopes

surrounding mountains. Although the hotel is

this ski season where children from the ages

are just a short walk away. Not only is Chalet

located slightly away from the slopes, guests

of 0-13 years old stay for free. All equipment

Hectar well located for Chamonix, but both

have use of the complimentary and efficient

is also provided and children’s ski lessons are

Les Grands Montets and Le Tour are a

shuttle service direct to the Piz Sorega lifts

available from €160 per lesson,

short drive away for those wanting a change

just a short drive away plus the lifts for the legendary Sella Ronda ski tour.

Prices start from €2906. This includes

of scene or another mountain to explore.

transfers to and from Geneva Airport,

With five en-suite bedrooms, an open plan

Scott Dunn offers San Cassiano packages

but does not include flights. Go to www.

kitchen and living room, sauna, a large south

from £1,960 per person based on 2 people

evianresort.com for more information.

facing terrace and a heated double driveway

sharing the Garden Suite in one of the new Chalet Fanes. Price includes return

Chalet Hectar

flights with British Airways from Gatwick

Hip Chalets offers hand-picked, gorgeous

to Innsbruck, return private transfers and 7

properties complete with their bespoke

nights’ accommodation on a half board basis.

concierge service taking the hassle out of self-

Go

to

www.scottdunn.com

for

more

information Hotel Ermitage The Hotel Ermitage at Evian Resort is the perfect place for a family ski break this winter.

catering. The chalets come in all shapes and sizes and the newest property on their books is Chalet Hectar in France. With dramatic views over the Mont Blanc mountain

with space for two cars, Chalet Hectar is perfectly appointed with everything you would expect from a luxury chalet plus the bespoke concierge services offered by the Hip Chalets’ team.

Chalet Hectar costs from £13,250 per week.

Go to www.hipchalets.com for further information

range, towering over the bustling town of Chamonix, Chalet Hectar offers alpine

- Culture|Travel -

January 2014

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