Redbrick Issue 1502, Vol. 83
Friday 8th February 2019
Sigrid stumbles on new single
Animated series: any more bright ideas?
Music 21
Television 24
FREE
How the Vatican controls your vagina
New Horizons, new records
Life&Style Sci&Tech 33 35
Two Year Degrees Confirmed
New legislation allows students to attend university for only two years
Redbrick
page 4
The Official University of Birmingham Student Newspaper, est. 1936
University’s ‘Abhorrent’ Housing Plans Denied Sophie Woodley News Editor
Birmingham City Council has recently rejected the first stages of UoB’s plans to build new student accommodation on Pritchatts Road. The plans, which the Metchley Park Residents Association has called ‘abhorrent,’ were turned down last Thursday. The plan involves building ten new student housing blocks as well as a multi-storey car park on Pritchatts Road in Edgbaston. This would add to the 7,000 beds that the University owns independently, as well as working with other private letting companies such as Liberty Living. Townhouses are hoped to be added to the existing Pritchatts Park Village: these are planned to house up to 8-10 students, providing 230 beds in total. Tim Owen, General Manager for Student Accommodation, told Redbrick that the new build will ‘keep in design with the look and the feel of the village, and has been generally accepted by residents.’ However, it is the secondary elements to the plan, which hope to build townhouses on Pritchatts Road, away from Pritchatts Park Village, where the University has faced a backlash from Birmingham City Council and from Edgbaston residents. Although Owen says the new 302-bed accommodation will ‘compliment the environment’ and ‘create a community that feels
part of UoB’s campus,’ the Council have deferred the initial application. In an online report from Birmingham City Council, Councillor Matt Bennett described Edgbaston as a ‘historic and pic-
turesque suburb [that] is suffering from more and more developments, usually from the hospitals or the University, which are fundamentally changing its character for the worse.’
Pritchatts Park Village, the existing UoB accommodation site on Pritchatts Road
INSIDE: Redbrick Food&Drink Cook Up A Nostalgic Storm of Meals From Our Childhoods
The Council has expressed particular concerns about parking, traffic, impact on local residents and impact to the scenery and conservation that would occur if the new accommodation was to be constructed. This has lead Councillor Bennett to conclude that ‘this situation is simply not sustainable and a different approach is required.’ Although the University is ‘disappointed’ with the current stages of the plan, Owen told Redbrick that an extensive consultation has been carried out with Pritchatts Park local residents, the University’s hotel and local residents. This has led to a ‘re-design’ of the proposals. Although a price has not been set in terms of the rent of the proposed accommodation, Owen states that ‘we’re not aiming at the highest price possible’ and will be ‘really sensitive to what students can afford. ‘Everything we do is designed with student experience in mind. Students and the community have lived alongside each other in harmony, so we’re not doing anything new [...] there’s nothing that’s changing the face of the area,’ Owen continued. Birmingham City Council’s next meeting will take place next Thursday, and will confirm the final status of UoB’s plan. After the decision has been made, the University will decide on its next ‘best course of action’ as they ‘believe very firmly that this application is a positive one both for the University, for our students, for the neighbourhood and for Birmingham as a whole.’
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Letter from the committee... I haven’t had much occasion this year to delve into the world of print, and that is, simultaneously the result of one really good thing – that the print team (Thom, Erin, Kat, Issy, the editors and editorial assistants) have done such a great job that reinforcement from the ethereal depths of Redbrick online has not been required; and one less good thing – that the online yang to print’s yin has been going less smoothly. However, through numerous conversations with the Guild and being the first-hand witness of considerable progress regarding our editorial arrangements over recent months, I strongly believe that there’s never been a better time to run for Digital Editor or Deputy Digital Editor at the AGM on 14th March at 7 PM in the Guild Council Chambers. If you’re even thinking of running, you can always drop me a message on Facebook or email me. Since last print, the world of Redbrick has been utterly transformed for the better. Anna Griffish, our aquatic mascot (seen to my right), has achieved something that will likely be out of reach for us millennials and Gen Z’s, she’s moved up the property ladder. Thanks to the heroic efforts of Print & Features Editor, Thom Dent, with able assistance
from Lead Developer, Jivan Pal; Treasurer, Theodore Wrigley; and Deputy Editor, Kat Smith, Anna has been moved from her original small, blue tank to a brand new, much larger, better lit black number, where she seems immeasurably happier. I feel privileged that I both got the honour of hosting Anna over the summer (it is conceivable that she is my favourite housemate of all time) and the honour of attending her moving ceremony. It was an emotional moment for fish and human alike, but ultimately Anna is better off in her new home. I implore you all to stop by the dungeon to wish her luck in her new home and to bask in her newfound happiness. In the meantime... ...from the dungeons, we salute you.
Jonny Isaacs Digital Editor
Save the Date! Redbrick’s 2019 AGM is in just over a month’s time. Come along to get a financial overview of the year, propose new additions to the constitution and run or vote for the 2019/20 committee. Redbrick AGM 2019 Thursday 14th March 7pm Guild Council Chambers As ever, the positions up for grabs are: Editor-in-Chief, Deputy Editor (x2), Print & Features Editor, Digital Editor, Deputy Digital Editor, Lead Developer, Marketing Secretary & Treasurer, and Social Secretary. If you want additional information about these roles and their respective responsibilities then all of our contact details are at the bottom of this page. We will be very happy to answer any questions you have. Speaking as someone who has now been on committee for nearly eight months, I can honestly say that it has been the best thing I have done during my time at university. Don’t miss out on the chance to run one of UoB’s biggest societies. I can assure you that you won’t regret it. Erin Santillo Editor-in-Chief
Follow us on Instagram @redbrickpaper Want to be featured? Send us your photos at: deputy@redbrick.me and/or tag us in your photos by using #redbrickinstagram
Online this week at redbrick.me... FILM
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MUSIC
Review: Bird Box
Review: Big Mouth
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Redbrick Meets: The Japanese House
Redbrick Editorial Team Editor-in-Chief Erin Santillo editor@redbrick.me
Deputy Editors Issy Campbell Kat Smith
News Editors Tom Leaman Megan Stanley Liam Taft Sophie Woodley
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Culture Editors Olivia Boyce Natalie Welch culture@redbrick.me
Gaming Editors Christopher Hall James Law Imogen Mellor Sam Nason gaming@redbrick.me
Music Editors Emily Barker Letty Gardner Harry Hetherington Kieran Read
Food&Drink Editors Emily Calder Lydia Waller
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Sci&Tech Editors Francesca Benson Katie Jones Will Nunn tech@redbrick.me
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New Partnership Signed Between UoB and Trinity College Dublin Natalia Carter Comment Editor
Amidst concerns regarding ‘postBrexit uncertainty,’ the University of Birmingham and Trinity College Dublin (TCD) have commenced a new partnership. The partnership will allow students the opportunity to engage with exchange programmes through a ‘student mobility agreement’ involving research and education. This agreement aims to ‘strengthen European links’ in the event of a no-deal Brexit. The University of Birmingham stated that Brexit has made study opportunities in Europe increasingly unclear, with research projects already feeling the impact. In addition to some research
projects falling through, undergraduate recruitment from the EU has fallen by 30% over the last two to three years, and a no-deal Brexit could result in a potential £30m loss of income.
“This agreement aims to ‘strengthen European links’ in the event of a no-deal Brexit” A spokesperson for UoB has informed the BBC that a no-deal Brexit could result in the University losing tens of millions of pounds.
The University’s International Pro- includes the added consideration Vice Chancellor, Robin Mason, of training with research worksaid that ‘Since December, we shops, longer-term joint PhDs and have gone full into considsplit appointments. It will also ering what might hapoffer clinical placements pen if there is no deal for medical students. at all and we are The joint bioengilooking at all neering research will aspects.’ be split between With the partTCD’s materials scicould be lost nership between ence and bioengineerafter a no-deal both universities in ing centre AMBER, place, the leading and Birmingham’s Brexit researchers from Institute for each establishment Translational Medicine. will have the opportunity Meanwhile the digital to work collaboratively text editing research will see a across three different areas of collaboration between UoB’s research such as medical schools’ research in digital editing with clinical trials, bioengineering and TCD’s work in digital humanities. digital text editing. Together they will be investigating The clinical trials research how ‘the digital world impacts
£30m
upon argument, perceptions of authorship, authority structures.’ They will also be working collaboratively across their professional services in order to develop ‘best practice exchange’, according to a Silicon Republic article. This includes work regarding operational management of the University’s facilities, online timetabling, and academic year structure. Both universities commented on the new partnership, with a representative from TCD, Dr Patrick Prendergast, stating that ‘advances are made through partnership with others.’ UoB’s ViceChancellor, Professor David Eastwood, has said that the university is ‘delighted to agree this key partnership with TCD.’
UoB Ranked in Top 5 for Giving Out Most Unconditional Offers Megan Stanley News Editor @oh_itsonlymegan
The University of Birmingham gives out the fourth most unconditional offers to applicants, new UCAS data has shown. Over the past few years, the number of unconditional offers across Britain have increased dramatically. UCAS data reveals that most universities make conditional offers and most of the unconditional offers come from just 20 institutions. Nottingham Trent University gives out the most unconditional offers, making just over 40% of its applicants unconditional offers,
followed by the University of Lincoln which gave out 6,150 unconditional places last year UoB is ranked fourth highest, making it the top Russell Group university for unconditional offers. Out of 25,000 offers in 2018, the University of Birmingham offered 4,765 unconditional offers to applicants, 17% of the total offers made. This is a 1343.9% percentage increase compared to 2013 when the University only made 330 unconditional offers. A University of Birmingham spokesperson said: ‘Unconditional offers form a small part of a wider and well developed admissions strategy that has a firm focus on supporting students to make the right choice for them. Our strategy
includes a far greater proportion of conditional and contextual offers and is centred on recruiting students who will benefit the most from their time with us whilst minimising the stress associated with securing a University place. ‘In addition to reducing anxiety around exams, we track student retention data so we know that having an unconditional offer has no bearing on the likelihood of a student dropping out of their course. ‘We use a range of information as part of our approach including a student’s personal statement, reference, previous and predicted academic performance, contextual data as well as interviews and admission tests in certain subjects.
Our criteria are reviewed regularly and students can gain early insight into the likelihood of them gaining an offer from us, including an unconditional offer, through the use of our Online Offer Calculator.’ A final year English Literature student who received an unconditional offer from UoB said, ‘If anything, when I received my unconditional offer, I worked harder.’ UoB is not the only Russell Group university to give out a large number of unconditional offers. The University of Nottingham is ranked 11th and has been criticised for doubling the amount of unconditional offers made over the last three years,
offering nearly 3,000 in 2018. However, last week, Nottingham announced that it would no longer be offering unconditional offers. Paul Greatrix, the registrar of the university, said: ‘We want everyone to be fully confident that they are admitted purely on their merits and potential. That is why we are ending the use of unconditional offers.’ A spokesperson for the Universities UK group, which lobbies on behalf of British universities, said: ‘We will explore with UCAS if there is more we can do as a sector to ensure they are used appropriately and proportionately so that the admissions system continues to work in the best interests of students.’
Blue Line Scheme Sees Students Become Special Police Constables Aneesa Ahmed News Writer
Five University of Birmingham students are working as Special Police Constables in Selly Oak and Edgbaston. The students are taking sabbatical from their studies to take up the role. This is in response to a rise in safety concerns in the neighbourhoods surrounding UoB and the impact that this has had on students at the University. The Special Police Constables are in position until summer 2019 and are helping existing police officers with their work around the community. The students started their roles
as part of the ‘Blue Line’ scheme in October 2018 and are warranted officers with powers of arrest. Despite the role being voluntary, the students are receiving a bursary from UoB. Special Constable Elliw Dafydd, who studies History and Politics, is enjoying the role, saying: ‘Blue Line is a great opportunity to see if I would like a career in policing. Every day is different and I get to interact with a lot of people. I see us as very much part of the local community – we provide crime prevention advice, and work with students to encourage them to report incidents to the police.’ Philosophy student Carys Butlin, who has also joined the
scheme, said: ‘We proactively target crime in our area. No two days are the same in this role: yesterday I went to a property to serve an arrest warrant in relation to a vehicle crime but on other days we patrol the neighbourhood and speak to people about their concerns.’ Each of the Blue Line officers is coached by a local PC. Elliw’s coach, PC Thomson, said: ‘I think the scheme has real value, as students are more likely to trust someone from their peer group.’ Campus police officer PC Richards said: ‘The Blue Line officers are loving the challenge, and although it’s not an easy transition to make, they seem to be handling it really well.’
UoB Director of Student Affairs Jon Elsmore said: ‘We have always had a close relationship with West Midlands Police, and this is the logical next step. The University is part of both Edgbaston and Selly Oak and we
University of Birmingham
have a responsibility to contribute to our local communities. The Blue Line scheme allows us to give a group of students an opportunity to gain skills and experience the realities of policing, while contributing to the safety and security of their own neighbourhoods.’ The Special Constables receive the same level of support as any regular officer and have access to the West Midlands Police wellbeing services, supervisor support, mentoring, occupational health as well as all the relevant clubs and associations. They are also trained and skilled to handle anything and any situation that a regular officer would. For example, patrols, warrants, arrests, disorder, crimes, victim support and more.
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Two-Year Degrees Approved Aishwarya Chandran News Writer
On Wednesday 30th January, the House of Lords approved the legislation to support universities introducing 2 year and other accelerated degrees. According to Gov UK, the introduction of shorter courses is to ensure that more students have the flexibility to study in higher education. It also widens the opportunities for underrepresented and mature students studying at university. Two-year degree courses will face a tuition increase of £11,000 per year compared to the average £9,250 for a three year degree. Despite the increase in fees for the course, the government states that a student enrolled on a 2-year course would save £5,500 overall in tuition fees compared to the standard 3-year course, and will not have to pay for an additional year of maintenance fees. They will also be able to go into the workforce quicker than other students. However, there have been concerns over the credibility of a shorter and more intensive course. In 2017, an article in The Guardian raised questions over how effective teaching could be over a small duration of time. Combined with the skills that students will gain, this raises concerns about lower employability. The government have said that such two-year degrees will be ‘quality assured in the same way as a standard degree, but delivered over a shorter, more intensive timespan.’ Redbrick spoke to a final year
maths student at UoB, who said, ‘While I believe that 2 year degrees are good for people that can’t necessarily spend a long time studying, I struggle to see how they’re going to be the same quality and provide the same beneficial experiences as a 3 year course.’ The University of Buckingham
has been delivering two year degrees for the past forty years. Danielle Robertson, Head of Admissions at the University of Buckingham, said, ‘students who are looking to complete their degree faster and leave university with less debt should consider a two year degree. ‘What makes a two-year
degree most attractive to our students is the ability to get to work sooner. Some even take a year out or find internships before commencing a degree. It is also a great option for mature students or those who want to retrain or upskill but don’t want to spend three to four years out of work.’
University of Birmingham
Students Cosy Up as Library Hand Out Blankets UoB's Library has started handing out blankets to students amidst the cold weather, Deputy Editor Kat Smith reports Kat Smith Deputy Editor
Following sub-zero temperatures in Birmingham, the University’s Main Library are lending blankets for those studying in campus’ largest study space. Baskets of blankets on the ground, first, second and third floor are there for students to help themselves to as and when they wish, as long as they are returned after their use. A final year student who studies French and Spanish, said ‘I do actually like this idea. The library is pretty cold and this will save me taking extra layers of clothing to wear when I go to the library for a long period of time.’ Another student, who does Medieval and Ancient History said: ‘I like it but why can’t the University just turn the heating up?’ The University states on the
Intranet that: ‘Even when the heating is on full in the Main Library, there's still spots that are cold.’ Furthermore, ‘sitting still for long periods to study’ can also make us colder, especially with freezing fog and snow forecast.
University of Birmingham
The initiative is being run by the University of Birmingham’s Library Services, though Guild President Reece Patrick Roberts posted on Fab N Fresh on the 31st January about the new initiative. He urged the students to take an extra layer to ‘get you through the beast from the east 2.0’ while ‘dissertation deadlines [are] looming.’ Roberts also told Redbrick that: ‘The library team have always been quick to respond to student feedback and the blankets are just another
example’, continuing that ‘it would be great to see these blankets, once the months get warmer and there are no need for them, to be donated to the homeless in our community (as raised by one of our students).’
“Sitting still for long periods of study can also make us colder” Responses to Roberts’ post on the Facebook group predominantly expressed excitement at the offer of blankets during an allnighter or a study session in the colder months. Do you have any opinions? Please contact @redbricknews
UoB Signs Deal For Student App Liam Taft News Editor
The University of Birmingham has signed a deal with Collabco that will bring it’s myday digital campus app to students. The service will allow students to access several academic services at once. The app will enable students to locate available PCs and free study spaces, view timetables, and gain access to academic records and resources. It can also be used to manage library loans and fees, as well as communicate with peers and staff members. This will be different to the ‘UoB Campus Map’ app that was launched last week that helps students and guests with navigation around campus. Jo Bryan, Assistant Director of Student Services at UoB, said: ‘myday will be designed to help students make the most of their time at university and will give them the essential systems, services and the latest information they need on a daily basis, all in one location at the swipe of a finger.’ The app has been introduced successfully at institutions including the University of Wolverhampton in an effort to digitise the student experience on campuses across the UK. In recent years, digitisation has become a fundamental part of student life. Andy Taylor, business development director at Collabco, said that ‘an excellent global reputation like the one that University of Birmingham has must go hand in hand with a digitisation strategy.’ He continued, suggesting that students now ‘demand’ a digital campus experience.
“Digitisation has become fundamental part of student life” Collabco claims that the UK is entering a new phase of higher education, where the ‘digital campus’ is becoming increasingly important. They argue that digital services such as Panopto and myday provide students with more flexibility in their learning. Redbrick spoke to a thirdyear English Literature student who said that digital services have helped to improve their university experience. ‘I have a knee injury, so I sometimes find it difficult to go to every single lecture. But having services like Panopto takes the pressure off and means that there’s more flexibility in how I study.’ Another student said of myday: ‘I think the app will really help me to organise my time. Juggling university, a part-time job, and a social life can be difficult, so I’m sure that this app will improve my time management.’ UoB is currently implementing two major IT projects. However, it is not yet clear when the app will become available.
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Friday 8th February 2019
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Former Private School Pupils Adopt Mockney Accents Romana Essop News Writer
Former private school pupils adopt mockney accents in an attempt to seem less posh as adults, the Guardian has reported. According to Barnaby Lenon, Headteacher of Harrow, a NorthLondon boarding school, pupils leave and are keen to hide their involvement because of its associations with the upper class. Lenon states that people do not want to appear upper-class as ‘being posh these days is not a good thing.’ Graeme Davis, a professional research fellow in humanities at the University of Buckingham, conducted research into prep
school language. Lenon has based his comments on Davis’s research, which found that prep school language has its origins in Cockney rhyming slang. As a result, in adulthood, former private school pupils are driven to shift their accents towards those associated with middle or lower classes, such as Cockney. Lenon claimed that most pupils speak ‘estuary English’ in later years of school and in adulthood. This variation of language can be regarded as a mixture of Received Pronunciation – what many may consider a ‘posh’ London accent – and Cockney. It incorporates features such as dropping ‘t’s whilst maintaining
the pronunciation of ‘th' in ‘think’, for example, allowing it to be dubbed ‘mockney.’
“Being posh these days is not a good thing” The Guardian reports that such efforts can be seen in the speech of many past and present politicians who adopt these mockney accents. They deem it as an attempt to appear more down-toearth and relatable to the general public. For instance, Tony Blair used glottal stops (dropping ‘t’s in
words like ‘bottle’) during his campaign, particularly whilst around those whose language features were the same. Language theorists have noted similar changes for decades, with Howard Giles coining the phenomenon ‘convergence’ in the 1970s. This acknowledged speakers’ shift of language to match those around them and claimed that this was an effort to be accepted in a particular social group. Regional accents reportedly face discrimination too. In 2017, it was found that many young people in particular felt discriminated against for their accents and would attempt to disguise them during telephone interviews, sometimes using voice distortion
apps to help. Two first-year students from the University of Birmingham both agreed that it isn’t necessarily a bad thing to change your accent, providing your ‘new’ choice is not offensive. One of the students, who was born and bred in Yorkshire, admitted to occasionally trying to sound more like a Received Pronunciation speaker in preparation for job interviews. However, the other (born in Gloucestershire) insisted that they ‘would not judge someone based on their accent’ and, in response to those who do change their accents to avoid potential discrimination, said: ‘you should be proud of where you’re from and stereotypes are bullshit.’
Previous Education Secretary Had Plans to Scrap Tuition Fees Christina Manns News Writer
Justine Greening, Education Secretary between 2016 and 2018, has recently claimed that she was planning on scrapping university tuition fees before she lost her government position in the cabinet reshuffle last January. Ms Greening expressed worries that the current fees of £9,250 per year would put off poorer students from attending university, and has said that the government needs to implement ‘a long-term sustainable approach’ to reform the higher education system. Criticising Labour’s policy of free university tuition, Greening had hoped to introduce a graduate contribution scheme, saying that,
‘most students recognise they should make a contribution, because they're getting an opportunity.’ This scheme would replace the current system of fees and loans with graduates paying a proportion of their salary over a set number of years.
“The government needs to implement 'a long-term sustainable approach” Conservative seats with student populations were won by
Labour in the 2017 General Election due to the Party’s promise to abolish university tuition fees. Instead of implementing her scheme, the government launched a review into student fees – with the results due to be reported next month. According to a spokesperson for the Department of Education, the government is ‘conducting a major review of post-18 education’ to ensure that the system ‘provides value for money.’ It has been suggested that this review could lower fees to £6,500 per year, but it is also speculated that STEM subjects could set fees as high as £13,500 per year. This is due to higher teaching costs on these courses and higher graduate
earnings on average. However, universities argue that this system could deter poorer students from pursuing STEM subjects and place arts courses at a perceived lower status.
“This new system could deter poorer students from pursuing STEM subjects” Justine Greening has criticised the review as lacking any ‘clear objectives of the problem it was trying to fix.’
According to the BBC, an average of £50,000 on student debts has amounted over the years. This discontent with the current system is also found amongst University of Birmingham students and alumni, with one 2017 graduate saying, ‘the current system doesn’t make sense because the rate of interest is so high that you’ll never be able to pay off the debt unless you have a high-paying job. We should be encouraging people to access higher education, not deterring them with huge amounts of debt.’ Do you have any opinions? Please contact us on Twitter: @redbricknews
Homeless Man Dies Outside Birmingham New Street Rebecca Hall News Writer
On Sunday 27th January a homeless man died in Birmingham city centre. The man was found near the Bullring shopping centre in Pershore Street at about 15:30 by paramedics. He has been named by Helping the Homeless as 31-year-old Kane Walker. The death is not being treated as suspicious by police and has been referred to the coroner’s officer. Helping the Homeless founder, Peter Caine, said ‘Every time we did outreach sessions in Birmingham, we bumped into him, and we got to know him. He is only a young lad’.
Caine also voiced his concerns on the effect of the cold weather on the homeless population. He states that his organisation lends ‘400 sleeping bags and 100 hot meals every time they go out on outreach programmes.’ Flowers and graffiti now mark the spot of where Kane Walker died. One message says, ‘Kane, you were a lovely lad. Wish you would have took help. RIP. You are with your mom and nan now, sadly missed’. Friends have said that he ‘never wanted to be a problem to anyone’. The death of Mr Walker has brought further light to the high level of homelessness in Birmingham. According to a survey conducted by Shelter last year, Birmingham is the worst city in
the UK outside the South-East for homelessness, with more than
12,000 people sleeping rough or in temporary accommodation.
Elliott Brown
The survey suggests that one in eighty-eight are homeless in the city. The city is ranked 25th nationally for homelessness, with only London and South-East areas ranking worse. On the national scale, the total number of homeless went up from 13,000 year-on-year to 3,017,000, affecting 200 people in England directly. Liam Byrne, Labour MP for Birmingham Hodge Hill, told the House of Commons of Kane Walker’s death and described ‘the scale of homelessness’ as ‘a moral emergency’. Prime Minister, Theresa May insisted she wanted to end rough sleeping, following the challenge. Currently, the government has committed to end rough sleeping by 2027.
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Ellie Simmonds Dives into Commonwealth Committee Role Tom Leaman News Editor
Five-time paralympic swimming champion Ellie Simmonds has joined a team of three NonExecutive Directors to the Birmingham Organising Committee for the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The committee was appointed by Jeremy Wright, the Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. Simmonds, who was raised in the West Midlands, won two Olympic gold medals in Beijing in 2008 at the age of 13. In the same year, she became the youngest-ever winner of the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award and in 2009, she became the youngest ever recipient of an MBE. The government’s press
release announcing the committee calls Simmonds ‘the poster girl for the Paralympic games’ and says that she ‘has captured both the hearts and minds of the British public.’ Joining Simmonds on the team of Non-Executive Directors is Lyndsey Jackson, who has described as ‘a senior arts administrator and live event producer, and the Deputy Chief Executive of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe Society.’ She will be joined by Nick Timothy, a columnist for the Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Previously, he acted as Theresa May’s joint Chief of Staff at 10 Downing Street. Like Simmonds, Timothy is a Birmingham native who has been heavily involved in charitable work - he is a former Director of the New Schools Network, which aims to fund independent state
schools to provide ‘more highquality free’ education. The three Non-Executive Directors will form part of a team of ten who will sit on the the board for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games. They will ‘ensure that they deliver an outstanding Games for the athletes, spectators, host city residents, the country and the whole Commonwealth family.’ The University of Birmingham’s £55 million sports centre will be the venue for squash and hockey in 2022. In 2014, the University announced a contest called Name of the Game ‘to give people the chance to name the new gym within the sports centre by voting for one of three sporting heroes who have pledged their support to the project’ - one candidate being Ellie Simmonds. Simmonds said: ‘I'm from near Birmingham so it would be
amazing to have the gym named after me and to be honoured in this way.’ The facility has not yet been named after any sporting
icon. The other names considered in 2014 were cricketer Gladstone Small and World Ironman champion Chrissie Wellington.
Jimmy Harris
Social Media Beats Socialising with Friends 'In Real Life' Rebecca Hall News Writer
A recent study suggests that 52% of people in the West Midlands feel that they do not need to talk to friends ‘in real life’ because of social media updates. Mental health anti-stigma campaign group, Time to Change, surveyed over 5,000 UK adults regarding their social media usage. This information comes alongside Time to Talk day which took place yesterday on Thursday 7th of February. In its sixth year, Time to Change have focussed their researching efforts on the effects of social media on mental health.
It is estimated that one in four people are affected by mental health issues. People aged 16 -24 are particularly vulnerable to mental health issues, and 64% of the university student population are made up of this age group. According to the research carried out by Time to Change, the average person in the West Midlands has 819 friends on social media, yet 22% have stated that they would be unable to call upon any of these friends if they were struggling with their mental health. Furthermore, 60% also said that group chats and social media lead to more ‘surface level’ conversations about gossip and funny
videos. Many University of Birmingham students were surprised to learn of the statistics that suggested social media updates can replace friendships. Georgia, a first year, commented that ‘university can be so isolating, and I feel social media adds to this, I absolutely need to talk to friends properly, whether on private messages or in real life.’ Echoing a similar sentiment, Ben, a second-year undergraduate, suggested that ‘social media updates cannot act as a substitute for actually talking to friends, as social media only shows what people want to be seen. Especially in my first year, so many of my
friends were massively homesick or struggling to settle into uni life, but I didn’t know this until I was actually having real conversations with them, because their socials made it look like they were partying every night.’
“University can be so isolating, and I feel social media adds to this” However, other students pointed out while social media should not be a replacement for friendships, it has allowed them to
stay in touch more easily with people, especially friends and family at home. Sarah, a third year, explained she found ‘using social media made the huge transition to a city from a small hometown much easier’ because she could ‘regularly see what was going on at home and stay connected to friends that have gone to other uni’s.’ Yesterday, Time to Talk day encouraged everyone to start meaningful conversations about mental health with friends and family, on social media and face to face. Do you have an opinion on this article? Contact us on Twitter - @redbricknews
West Midlands Police Prepare for a No-Deal Brexit Diana-Andreea Mandiuc News Writer
West Midlands Police are Struggling to prepare for Brexit due to the lack of information received from the government, according to the Express & Star. With 49 days to go, the police stated that they do not know what they need to prepare for – a nodeal scenario between the EU and the UK, or a transition period. Even though the organisation is holding weekly meetings to prepare for the United Kingdom’s exit from European Union, which
is due on 29 March this year, the West Midlands Police are not finding an easy solution.
“The police stated they did not know what they need to prepare for” West Midlands Police’s biggest concern in case of a no-deal is related to the possibility to lose all databases which includes wanted criminals and their movements over time.
Chief Constable David Thompson has said that a deal between both parties would be the easiest solution for everything in terms of police concerns. ‘The current deal the Prime Minister has put forward is the least disruptive for police forces. There would be problems with a no deal, but we will be doing our best to make sure it works as best as possible,’ declared Thompson. ‘We need some detail, some knowledge and some understanding on what's happening but that is eluding us all. All we can do at the moment is make plans and then turn them around if needed,’ said Thompson.
‘Operation Panga’ (the planning made by the police for Brexit) is supervised by Phil Dolby, who stated there are no known protests or other manifestations into the region. He continued by saying
Bulverton
that the rate of hate crimes because of Brexit has not increased. According to Dolby, crime rates related to Brexit have fallen in recent weeks, both locally and nationally. ‘West Midlands Police also monitors hate crime across the force. As a result of this monitoring, there is no increase in hate crime linked to Brexit,' Dolby said. In the event of a no-deal, David Jamieson, Crime Commissioner and supporter of a second referendum, said the plans for the UK's exit from the EU lacks clarity and is why it is being ‘held back.’
NEWS
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricknews
07
News Analysis: LGBT 'Coming Out' Percentages for Birmingham Sophie Woodley News Editor
The number of people identifying as bisexual in the West Midlands has more than doubled in the past five years, new stats released by the Office of National Statistics (ONS) have revealed. It is widely renowned amongst the LGBT community that ‘coming out’ is an extremely emotional and difficult process, no matter what age or gender you may be. Therefore, recent figures that show an increase in those ‘coming out’ in the region is great news for the LGBT community as it suggests Birmingham is becom-
ing a more inclusive, accepting community. In 2017, an estimated 50,000 adults in the West Midlands identified as gay or lesbian. Similarly, a further 50,000 were bisexual. This is according to the figures published by ONS on 21st January. Paul Twocock, Director of Campaigns, Policy and Research at Stonewall stated, ‘we warmly welcome the release of new data from the ONS. Gathering data on LGBT communities in the UK is a significant step towards building a society where all LGBT people are accepted without exception.’ ONS figures also show that the number of people identifying
as gay or lesbian has risen between 2012 and 2016, from 36,000 to 42,000. However, for those identifying as bisexual in the West Midlands, the numbers have rocketed over the same period. With 21,000 people in 2012 ‘coming out’ as bisexual, this rose to 30,000 in 2016. These figures are estimates based on the Annual Population Survey. This collects information on self-perceived sexual identity from people 16 years and over, across the UK. London has the highest proportion of people identifying as lesbian, gay or bisexual, according to the data. In contrast, the North East of
England and the East of England have the lowest proportion of lesbian, gay and bisexual individuals, at just 1.5%. However, this does not undermine the fact the West Midlands is a region that still calls for acceptance and understanding. Despite more and more people feeling comfortable to ‘come out’ with their sexuality, the LGBT community is still a minority group. This stems from figures that show 4,329,000 adults in the West Midlands identified as heterosexual in 2017, which equates to 93.8%. Paul Twocock comments on this, suggesting that the difficulty of ‘coming out’ should not be
overlooked, as ‘while there has been an increase in the number of people identifying as lesbian, gay or bisexual, it is important to remember that many LGBT people still aren’t able to be open about their sexual orientation.’ Redbrick spoke to a final year History student who identifies as bisexual. They said, ‘I found it a really tough and emotionally draining time coming out to family and friends. People shouldn’t underestimate the difficulty. But, knowing that there are others who have been through the same thing is comforting, and as a UoB student I feel included and comfortable living in Birmingham.’
Parliament Postpones Vote to Include FGM in the 'Children Act' Florence Jones News Writer
On the 1st of February a vote was due to take place in parliament on whether or not to include Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the Children Act. But now, amidst Brexit concerns, the vote has been pushed back to a later date. The Children Act of 1989 (amended in 2004) doesn’t currently include FGM, which involves the removal of certain areas of women’s genitalia for non-medical reasons. As a result, there is currently no protection for children who are the victims of this dangerous procedure. FGM is a form of surgery often done under very unsafe conditions which can cause difficulty urinating, menstruating and giv-
ing birth. Some women also lose their lives in the process. The passing of this bill will provide legal basis for social services and other agencies to get involved with incidences of FGM on children. Last week, on 1st February, further evidence of abuse was reported as the first person in the UK was found guilty of FGM. According to the BBC, a 37-year-old mother from East London mutilated her three-yearold daughter. The mother ‘coached’ her daughter ‘to lie to the police so she wouldn't get caught,’ prosecutors say. In England and Wales 137,000 women have reportedly been
affected by FGM with a number of high-profile cases. The University of Birmingham's project ‘Sister Study’ Study started in May last year and will continue until April 2020. The principle investigator is Laura Jones, a lecturer in the Institute of Applied Health Research. The study aims to explore and understand two main elements. Firstly, the timing preferences for deinfibulation surgery amongst FGM survivors, male partners and healthcare professionals. Secondly, how to improve NHS FGM services for type 3 FGM survivors and their families. The University have described
this as a ‘qualitative study’ that explores ‘the views of FGM survivors, male partners and healthcare professionals on the timing of deinfibulation surgery.’ Redbrick spoke to a final year English and History student who said, ‘FGM is a really prominent issue in society at the moment, so I'm glad it's being spoken about. But something needs to be done legally about this.’ A sentence of 14 years in jail is carried with FGM and is currently practised in 30 countries in Africa, as well as countries in Asia and the Middle East. Roughly 3 million girls and women worldwide are at risk every year, which has called for prominent campaigns from activists such as Scarlett Curtis. Curtis, a columnist for The Sunday Times and curator of the
best-selling Feminists Don’t Wear Pink (and Other Lies) and Grace Campbell of Channel 4’s Riot Girls are co-founders of the online feminist movement The Pink Protest. Their #EndFGM campaign seeks to end unconsented Female Genital Mutilation. In part due to Curtis’s and Campbell’s campaign, in 2018, Baron Michael Berkeley introduced a bill into the House of Lords to have FGM included in the Children Act. The Bill completed its House of Lords stages on 19 November 2018 and was presented to the House of Commons on 20 November 2018. According to The Pink Protest, more needs to be done in Britain to ensure that victims are given support and care and to prevent future violence.
Editor's Pick
News Editor Liam Taft reports on a shed fire that happened last week in Essex, causing local cats, dogs and rabbits to turn blue
Eight sacks of blue ink to burst into flames last week in Essex, which had unfortunate consequences for the local pet population. As a result of the blaze, cats and dogs in the area turned blue in colour, much to the confusion of local residents. A garden shed caught fire in Clacton, Essex last Tuesday at approximately 21:00, but the fire was extinguished by 22:00 with the help of firefighters. The fire caused the ink powder to be blown into the air, with the particles settling on the roofs of houses, local residents’ cars, and onto unsuspecting cats, dogs, and rabbits. In order to fight the blaze,
firefighters dug a trench around the shed and filled the area with sand.
“As a result of the blaze, cats and dogs in the area turned blue in colour” Local authorities were also drawn in to assess the toxicity of the ink particles. However, a spokesperson told reporters that
the ink had been deemed ‘nonhazardous by scientific advisors,’ although it would ‘continue to smoulder for a couple of days.’ Terry Oliver, a builder who lives close to the shed that caught fire, told the BBC that he woke up to see a blue cat sitting on his driveway. ‘My little girl thought they looked like Smurf cats,’ he said. ‘It’s quite blue around here and a bit strange.’ Local dog walker Chrissie Augrandjean said: ‘I dog walk for a woman who lives opposite. When I went to her house, all three of her dogs were tinted blue and her two white cats were covered.’ Another resident, Jasmine
Rawlins, whose pets have been affected by the blue ink, said: ‘My rabbits who have been in the garden are blue. I’m freaking out. We’ve tried to scrub it off but no luck.’
The RSPCA suggests that cat owners should wash the Smurflike pets with warm water and shampoo. For dogs, they recommend that owners repeat the same
process, either in a bathtub or outside using a hose. However, if the pet becomes visibly uncomfortable or irritated, pet owners should seek the advice of a vet. In 2019, the news has been dominated by Brexit anxiety, political fallouts, and increasing tensions across the country. Therefore, I wanted to bring some fun - and colour - to the pages of Redbrick for issue 1502. Thankfully, clouds of blue ink particles haven’t affected the Birmingham area, but Redbrick recommends that if a similar incident occurs, University of Birmingham students should protect Selly Cat at all costs.
COMMENT
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Friday 8th February 2019
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Poll of the Week: The Green Heart
We asked students at the University of Bimingham whether the Green Heart was worth the money, time and disruption that it caused across campus “The final result is underwhelming because the uni promised so much more” Ye s
No
.8 %
61
.
38
2%
Do you think the Green Heart was worth it?
“It looks nice and people underestimate the cost of a project like this” “The will of the VC is sacred” “It's a concrete monstrosity and a stair maze. As someone who is disabled I still have to cut through Muirhead tower”
“In the context of understaffed mental health support and the defunding of the Selly Express, it does seem like a a vanity project”
Amelia Hiller Comment Editor
The University of Birmingham’s Green Heart has been a polarising project since it was announced, and remains so even now that it has officially opened. According to the latest figures from the University of Birmingham, the minimum cost of the project equates to £18.9 million, with building works disrupting campus since August 2017. This week, we posted a poll in Fab ‘n’ Fresh which asked students whether they thought the Green Heart was worth it. 61.2% of respondents said that it wasn’t worth the time and money, with one person outlining accessibility issues for disabled students. They stated that it is a ‘stair maze’ difficult to those with pain and fatigue to navigate. Other reasons cited for the project not being worth it were that people didn’t feel students were con-
sulted about how the space would be used, and many seemed resentful about the building of ‘a field’ despite the lack of study spaces across campus. Ultimately, I agree with the notion that the Green Heart is a ‘vanity project,’ but there are also notable benefits surrounding the project, mostly focusing on the green space it brings to campus and the scenic views which visitors experience. It saves energy in terms of heating and lighting which would be used if there was a building in its place. Though shallow, it’s also very Instagrammable. In summary, I agree with the majority of poll respondents that the Green Heart project was not worth the time, money and disruption for the end result. Take part in our polls: Redbrick Comment Contributors
@RedbrickComment
Let's Have a Conversation About Cancer
Rebekah Birch outlines the need for society to become comfortable with discussing cancer Rebekah Birch Comment Writer
When I tell people that I have leukaemia, the reaction is always the same: uncomfortable silence. No one ever quite knows what to say. When an ad for a cancer charity, or a news story about cancer treatment, or a film or TV show features a cancer-related story line, people will awkwardly avoid eye-contact with me. It’s understandable that people struggle, that they don’t quite know how to handle it. It’s not like we’re ever really prepared for this.
“When I tell people that I have leukaemia, the reaction is always the same: uncomfortable silence” Generally, when you think of someone with cancer, they’re old or very sickly looking or very distant from us. They aren’t often our age, we don’t normally know them, they don’t look like us. And, on the rare occasion that
they do – in movies like A Walk to Remember or The Fault in Our Stars – the ending is always too depressing for us to dwell on. But for me, and for the over 2000 young people who are diagnosed each year, it’s just a part of life. The problem is that while cancer isn’t likely in young people, it’s common enough that it needs to be discussed. It took six months of doctor’s appointments before I was finally diagnosed, and this is a real issue. Most young people struggle to get a doctor to take their symptoms seriously enough to investigate, and this time can be crucial. So what can be done? In my opinion, the solution is simple: open conversation. If we think that cancer doesn’t happen to people like us, people our age, then how can we push for answers when we have symptoms? And, if we think that it won’t happen to us - and we never talk about it - then how do we even know the symptoms? What we need is to start the conversation. We need to know that it’s okay to talk about this. Even more, it’s important. The conversation will be enlightening, informative and even life-saving. Here is something people often forget: people with cancer normally don’t mind talking about cancer. For me, it’s a part of my life - a pretty big part - and no one knows what to do with that. People will either ignore it completely, or only want to talk
about it using an often-unintentionally patronising and pitying tone. Neither approach really works. Having cancer isn’t the defining thing about me, nor is it unimportant. It's a part of who I am, and I have undoubtedly changed since my diagnosis, but I still have a life, a personality, and interests outside of the illness. A happy medium is needed. We should talk about it, but it’s not all we should talk about.
“We all need to feel more comfortable talking about cancer” February 4th was World Cancer Day, so what better time to start the discussion? I think this conversation could be healthy for everyone. We all need to feel more comfortable talking about cancer, and we all need to be educated and informed on the symptoms and reality. It might be a little awkward, and maybe it can be slightly upsetting, but we’ll all be better off for it. Once the initial feelings have passed, it will just be a casual part of a conversation. And maybe in the future, we’ll forget that we ever avoided it.
worldcancerday.org
COMMENT
Friday 8th February 2019
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Intervention Means Emancipation for Venezuelans
Oscar Gray argues that the US has a responsibility to intervene in Venezuela to ensure that Venezuelan citizens have the right to self-determination Oscar Gray Comment Writer
In recent weeks, America and its allies have sought to drive a wedge between Maduro and his military, in the hopes that his authoritarian dictatorship will crumble. Depending on your view of intervention, this is either a grievous breach of a nation's right to self-determination or a m o r a l stand necessary to relieve Venezuelans of poor governance. On the ground, the situation is truly dire. Hugo Chavez bequeathed his successor, Maduro, a country without a diversified economy, high corruption and rising inflation. Since 2013, Maduro seems to have ensured that this situation was transformed into a living hell for most Venezuelans, who on average have lost 11 kg in weight since 2017 due to famine induced malnourishment (according to a Reuters report from 2018). Paramilitary biker gangs enforce Maduro’s rule in Caracas, a city with a reported murder rate of 120 per 100,000, compared to 1.2 per 100,000 in London in the same year. Caracas had more murders in 100,000 people than London did in its population of 8.6 million.
most prosperous nation in South America has had ramifications that risk destabilising the America’s in much the same way the Syrian conflict has Europe and the Middle East. Venezuela is in dire straits. It came as a surprise that President Donald Trump came out against an autocrat, something he has often been reluctant to do in the past. He has not been known to make moral stances, his foreign policy has been defined by a fluidity unseen in the conventional strategising of his predecessors. There has been speculation, harking back to an image of Bush, Blair and the Iraq war, that America desires Venezuela’s oil. Such a view is misplaced. America has become a net exporter of energy since 2018 , the fracking industry has become advanced enough to produce a surplus. Additionally, Venezuela does not hold the strategic, geopolitical importance of the Middle East, neither does it link to a broader strategy, as Iraq did in the ‘war on terror.’ Two possibilities may be motivating Trump’s stance on Venezuela. Firstly, he, or his advisers, have realised that Venezuela’s potential to destabilise the region, with migrants moving northwards to the United States. Considering Trump’s election victory coming down, essentially, to an anti-immigration policy stance, such an influx could be a significant blow to his legitimacy. Secondly, Ernest Hemmingway once said that war is a panacea for domestic issues and ‘the refuge of political and economic opportunists.’ Trump is under enormous pressure, and this week it was revealed that special counsel Robert Mueller’s investigation is to be unveiled soon. Perhaps Trump is looking for his Iraq, a significant conflict that could shift focus away from his failing administration. If this is the case, the diplomatic pressure that we have seen in recent weeks, will likely be the beginning of an escalation, in which Trump's personal rhetoric becomes more extreme, culmi-
3 million
refugees taken in by neighbouring countries
“Depending onyour view of intervention, this is either a greivous breach of a nation's right to self-determination or a moral stand necessary to relieve Venezuelans of poor governance” Venezuelans are escaping their country in the millions, with its neighbouring states taking in over 3 million refugees since the economic malaise began. The collapse of once
nating in a haphazard execution of an ill-thought intervention. Hopefully, Washington will continue to handle the situation with a delicacy Trump is not known for. There is an inherent difficulty in acting on Venezuela. Sovereignty has become the central tenet of modern international relations, something that Russia and China often stress hypocritically. The west has been, by far, the primary violators of this order, one that they helped construct after the second world war. America must be careful, it has become embroiled in countless foreign wars, and it could risk its declining diplomatic reputation with a direct intervention that outstays its welcome. Their track record has left the world tired and mistrustful of both their motives and means. From Afghanistan and Iraq to Libya, America’s wars have been a frequent, unmitigated disaster, alienating would-be allies through misinformed and misapplied doctrine. I have never been someone who has supported A m e r i c a ’ s more aggressive foreign policy ventures, often moaning that
they impose their philosophy on states that never desired democratic institutions. However, Maduro has created a humanitarian crisis that cannot be ignored, if ever there was a time for America to use its ability to act unilaterally to protect a civilian populace, one that has demonstrated a genuine willingness for democratic change, it is now. Too often, Russia been able to criticise American action, using Washington’s unilateralism to their advantage in justifying future activities of their own. Russia is distorting norms and highlighting America's own hypocrisies. At some point, America needs to react. Russia's interest in Venezuela, primarily in the oil sector, serves to com-
plicate the matter further. A nonideological cold war seems to be emerging: Russia is attempting to rebalance systemic power, in Ukraine, Syria and now in Venezuela. America cannot afford to ignore such manoeuvres in South America.
“The United Nations outlined a concept of sovereignty that is contrdictory. Selfdetermination relates to the right of people to rule themselves, Venezuelans should be granted this opportunity” This is not to say I advocate a second cold war. Rather, in a world where populism and absolutism are on the march once more, America should be providing the alternative, defined by freedom of speech
WikiCommons
and democratic choice. Washington must use its vast diplomatic and covert arsenal to ensure that the newly sworn-in opposition leader, Juan Guaido, receives as much protection and support as America can provide without ‘troops on the ground.’ If America still practices what it once preached, it has a responsibility to do what it can to ensure Maduro’s unchecked power does not triumph in this escapade. The United Nations outlined a concept of sovereignty that is contradictory. Self-determination relates to the right of people to rule themselves. Venezuelans should be granted this opportunity, such a right cannot be inferred from Maduro’s authoritarianism, which violently suppresses and starves its hapless population. Furthermore, this conception of sovereignty, an unquestioning commitment to the primacy of the state in the international system, ignores the ramifications of instability on the global community. If we are to assume sovereignty is requisite, it must depend on the correct governance of states. That is not to say democracy should be pre-conditional to statehood, but that gross misapplication of public funds and severe mistreatment of a state’s population requires external action, America is best placed to undertake this.
COMMENT
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Friday 8th February 2019
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The Dark Side of Brumfess Natalia Carter explores the problematic side of university confession pages Natalia Carter Comment Editor
The student led page aiming to connect lovesick individuals known as Old Joemance had a surge of success. But now, there is a new phenomenon. Rather than anonymously confessing your love, you can confess whatever crosses your mind on the latest page Brumfess. Generally harmless, seemingly filled with rankings of menial items such as food, study spaces and nightclubs, it might be hard to see how this is negative. Just to clarify, this is not a University of Birmingham specific issue. Pages with similar aims are cropping up across various universities in the UK, including but not limited to Bristol and UCL. Some pages even focus specifically on certain accommodations – surely it’s not hard to see how this can become toxic? Why would you want to live with people anonymously posting about you rather than approaching you in person? These pages are demolishing trust and positive communication and conflict resolutions. But let’s return to a more localised issue: the University of Birmingham pages. These pages are just another technological wolf in sheep’s clothing. Amongst the menial we find the problematic, the occasional post that slips through the supposedly moderated submissions. For example, the charming ranking that collated nationalities into tiers of superiority and inferiority whilst remaining conveniently anonymous. If the page is being moderated, as it claims to be, then the moderators are failing to notice the harmful nature to some of the posts they are allowing to become public. Whilst I am the first to admit that some of the posts on the page are amusing, and fun to tag your friend in as an inside joke - what happens when the same name starts to appear more and more frequently? I admit that I have tagged my friends in posts, at this rate I’m sure most people have. However, many people have started to notice an increase in certain names cropping up – leading to accusations of people
posting about themselves. These names become recognisable, to the point where perhaps you even know who they are. Maybe after the third or fourth time of seeing a name, you clicked on it to see who they are, to see what all the fuss is about. We’ve all done it – whether that be clicking on someone tagged in an Instagram photo, or looking at a suggested friend on Facebook. There’s no harm in it, until it goes too far.
“Among the menial we find the problematic, the occasional post that slips through the supposedly moderated submissions” At the time of writing this, the page had 7376 followers. This doesn’t seem like an extortionate amount considering the size of the student body, but it does mean that over 7000 people are granted the ability to click on each name that appears in the comments. 7376 people have the ability to connect the dots between posts about the ‘fittest (insert name here)’ and who ‘has the best arse’, until you have an image of a random individual on campus. This individual is raised onto a pedestal – and a public one. Anyone can click on this name, see their picture and recognise them on campus. This is a level of publicity that I don’t think anyone following the page signed up for – after all, it’s selling point was its anonymity. The page encourages a culture of watching and voyeurism which isn’t limited to this page alone. If you take a moment to wander over to Instagram you will find the account ‘sleepyuob’ and ‘uob_spotted’ in which photos are posted without consent with the aim to publicly expose and shame people. Not only is it unethical to post pictures of someone without them knowing
that the photo was even taken, but it’s a huge violation of privacy. People are being exposed for sleeping in public spaces, which whilst understandingly frustrating, is no excuse to snap images of those minding their own business, blissfully unaware that their sleeping face is plastered on Instagram. On the other hand, ‘uob_spotted’ whilst threatening to upload images and videos of people considered generally annoying, is yet to post any content. These pages feel like yet another way to encourage self-conscious and paranoid behaviours in which you feel like you are being watched and become hyper aware of your actions and how they are perceived. Social media is already encouraging an environment of self-criticism. We are aware of constantly being watched, measuring ourselves against the presentation of others on our timeline and trying to meet the false expectations set by the ability to self-edit. A report by the Royal Society for Public Health in the UK found that teens between the ages of 14-24 felt that Instagram, Twitter, Snapchat and Facebook all had negative effects on mental health. Instagram was ranked as the worst platform for teen mental health, perhaps unsurprisingly since it is so focused on personal image. But what happens when this starts to blur with reality? With many of the posts on Brumfess and Old Joemance focusing on body image and appearance, I can’t help but feel that the expectations we put onto ourselves on social media are creeping into our everyday lives on
campus. Some might argue that the same names appearing multiple times are building extortionate egos, but my worry lies in those who are never mentioned. With such a large campus, it’s unlikely that there will be a post for everyone – in fact, it’s impossible. But the feeling of inadequacy grows and grows as you long to be noticed and posted about on a Facebook page that does more harm than good. There are even posts about wanting to be posted about.
“Social media is already encouraging an environment of self-criticism” Think about it, would you really want to be noticed? Does it not seem creepy that people are watching you from the treadmills in the gym all the way to the row of books in area 2C of the library, or by the bread in
Brumfess
Aldi? The feeling of being watched from every direction on campus should make you uncomfortable, it’s like an episode of Black Mirror come to life. The anonymity of Brumfess allows people to say things that they would never say to your face. It’s not always ‘flattering’ to have your appearance evaluated on a public platform regardless of how well-intentioned the comment is. The anonymity allows people to post degrading and insulting comments and opinions of their course mates, housemates and even random people that they pass in the street. A post might appear that sounds familiar, you might even start to believe that the post is about you, and that you are the one hated by all your housemates or seminar group. A new wave of keyboard warriors have graced our campus and they are revelling in the anonymity of the page, inspiring anxiety and paranoia amongst whoever reads the post. To sum up, Brumfess is the epitome of everything that is wrong with social media. It encourages a focus on body image and a need for validation. The anonymity allows hurtful and creepy posts to slip through the ‘moderated’ page’s radar until they find their way onto the news feeds of thousands. Incessant tagging of individuals violates their privacy. Perhaps the person who works in that bar doesn’t want the world to be able to access their social media? Maybe they don’t want strangers to know their name. But that’s the beauty of Brumfess and Old Joemance, it connects you with people. Who knows – you might even get lucky and find them tagged in a post about the best streets in Selly Oak. Now you know where they live, what’s left? Through the combination of Old Joemance and Brumfess you know what they look like, you know that they were spotted in the library in a red jumper and you know that they might walk up Tiverton at 6pm on a Tuesday night. Friends of those commenting can see the posts, so who knows how wide the reach of these posts are?
COMMENT
Friday 8th February 2019
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11
Medicinal Marijuana Farms: A Budding Industry The first cannabis farm in the UK is a great first step, argues Jonathan Korn Jonathan Korn Comment Writer
In the heart of Wiltshire, history is being made. The first medicinal cannabis farm looks set to open, and about time too. Ever since the tragic case of 12-year old Billy Caldwell, who was denied cannabis oil which helped prevent life-threatening seizures, the UK government has faced enormous pressure to act. And Home Secretary Sajid Javid eventually did so, announcing legislation which permits the prescription of medicinal cannabis to patients. Fast forward to today, and law is set to become reality. 7.5 acres of land, a £10 million facility, and compensation for any farmers whose land is used. Oh, and the cannabis being grown will not contain THC, the compound which makes people high. Which means any risk of vulnerable patients losing control of their faculties is unfounded. All in all, this is pretty good. Allowing the production of a drug which helps save people’s lives
seems a humanitarian imperative. But could we go even further? The answer is yes. Social reform has slipped down the political agenda as Brexit consumes the resources and political capital of the British Government. And understandably so. Stockpiling medicines is slightly more important than ensuring hippy teenagers are entitled to smoke a few joints. However, this doesn’t mean the debate over drug legalisation is unimportant. On the contrary, it cuts to the heart of who we are, and the values we hold dear. Most moral issues fit into the ‘Paternalism vs libertarianism’ bracket. Meaning one side thinks individuals should be free to make their own choices (libertarians), and the other feels that governments have a moral responsibility to look after citizens, and sometimes to protect them from their worst impulses. Of course, no sensible people subscribe to either extreme. Even the staunchest defender of liberty would not support the legalisation of cocaine, or the abolition of laws compelling the wearing of seatbelts. Likewise,
the most ardent paternalist would be hard-pressed not to fall into the iron grip of totalitarianism if they sought to limit individual liberty too much. The debate is a complex one. However, on the issue of marijuana legalisation, I think the time has come for change. Every day, I feel the benefits of living in a free country. A country where I can vote for whoever I like, say whatever I like, even write whatever I like. A country where the instinct is towards liberty. Where citizens and legislators look for an excuse to allow, not to ban. Where we trust each individual to know what is in their interests better than a remote Parliamentarian they have never met. A country is which the supreme virtue is liberty, not restriction. The countries around the world whose first instinct is to restrict are not countries any of us would wish to live in. Just look at the nations which restrict a woman’s right to choose, or the right of an LGBTQ citizen to marry. Broadly, we should stand with societies in which the instinct is to permit, not to ban.
So it is with drug legalisation. Do we really not trust individuals to decide how to live their lives? Drug-takers know exactly what the risks of taking drugs are, yet choose to do so anyway, having weighed up the benefits against the costs. My life is not affected by others electing to smoke. So, what right do I have to tell them they cannot do so, simply because I find it distasteful? There are plenty of other reasons why the time has come for legalisation. Millions extra could be raised for the Exchequer if cannabis was legali s e d
and taxed. The power dealers have over vulnerable people would be significantly reduced if cannabis were made readily available. Legalisation means regulation, which in turn would allow the state to ensure that the cannabis sold is safe for consumption, a safeguard impossible in a blackmarket system. I have never taken drugs. To be clear, this article is not the result of a summer trip to Amsterdam. Rather, it is a call for the defenders of liberty to find their voices again. It’s time to legalise cannabis.
Pixabay
Activists Aim to Trump Trans Ban Holly Pittaway discusses the emerging activism against the US transgender military ban Holly Pittaway Comment Writer
When President Trump announced his plans to instate a ban on transgender people serving in the US military in July 2017 via Twitter, I thought it was just another version of his ‘we will build a wall’ promise (as in, it would never actually happen) – but this week I have been proven wrong. Despite the fact that the policy was temporarily blocked by Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly in October of the same year, on Tuesday 22nd January 2019, the Supreme Court voted 5-4 in favour of a ‘trans military limit,’ a ruling that marks the beginning of the undoing of more than 70 years of military legislation. If proceeded with, will have massive implications for trans identifying military officers, not only threatening their livelihood and career, but also casting them out as social pariahs. Obviously, this is a step back in time for the United States – it was only two years ago that the law was changed under the Obama administration, as before July 2017, service members could be legally discharged from their ranks based on how
they chose to identify. This regression is a reminder of the discrimination faced by African Americans, women, and gay people, who were all only allowed to serve in the armed forces relatively recently – less than 100 years ago, Army Chief of Staff, George Marshall wrote in a memo declaring his apprehension towards black service members, saying that their inclusion in the military ‘was fraught with danger to efficiency, discipline and morale.’ In 1992, a report from the Presidential Commission on the Assignment of Women in the Armed Forces surfaced that suggested women should be banned entirely from serving, with one committee member imploring that an all-male military would better protect the country. Throughout the 1990s, the now-infamous ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’ campaign ensured openly homosexual people were kept out of the army, for fear that such behaviour would cause disruption and be detrimental to unit cohesion. Of course, we know now that allowing African American, women, or gay troops into the armed forces has not had the apocalyptic effect that many of these campaigners warned it
would – but who’s to say this legislation is safe in the wake of Trump’s transgender policy reversal?
“Transgender activists have... refused to fade into the shadows” Trump’s main reasoning for the trans ban is an economic one; according to the POTUS, transgender soldiers drum up ‘tremendous medical costs and disruption.’ However, a 2016 RAND survey tells quite a different story, estimating that out of the c.1.3 million active-duty militants, only between 2,00011,000 of these are transgender, and the average health care cost demanded by these individuals only constitutes a rise of between $2.4-8.4 million (that’s 0.04-0.13% increase from the norm) in government spending – considering the Pentagon has just unveiled its proposal for a $686 billion military budget in 2019, I’d say transgender medical costs are hardly ‘tremendous.’ But many people have sug-
gested that the ban goes further than just being a money-saving method, and is in fact, part of the Trump administration’s plans to wipe out the term ‘gender’ from UN Human Rights documents in an attempt to ‘define transgender people out of existence.’ In October 2018, the White House announced that it was considering narrowing legal gender definitions to be based solely ‘on a biological basis that is clear, grounded in science, objective and administrable,’ according to the Department of Health and Human Services. For me, and I hope for many others, the implications of this statement are concerning; it’s estimated that between 0.50.6% (1.4 million) of the US total population openly identifies as transgender (although this figure could be larger since many people may have chosen not to disclose this information), all of whom could soon be out of a job just because they don’t fit the biological mould. Such legislation has even had an impact on the way people go to the toilet, for example, see the recent controversy surrounding the topic of transgender bathrooms at Virginia High School. So, if this is truly the
direction Trump’s administration seeks to go in, the near future could look bleak for a staggering number of people. But before we jump the gun and start collecting tins of beans and preparing for doomsday, there is a flicker of hope that has not yet burnt out. According to a poll conducted by Quinnipac University on 29th January, 70% of Americans asked said that they were against Trump’s trans policy. Transgender activists have also refused to fade into the shadows, with many speaking out against the administration; Sharon McGowan, legal director of Lamba Legal, an LGBT rights group, spoke out this week saying, ‘I’m absolutely optimistic with respect to the long-term prospects the question is: how long is the long term?.’ McGowan’s sentiment is one shared by many other lawyers and activists working on the cause who are holding out hope for the future, sure ‘they will prevail’ against Trump. Unfortunately, only time will tell what the future for transgender Americans holds, and until then, all we can do is keep the conversation going.
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Redbrick Gaming’s
Gaming Writers and Editors give a preview of the year to come, and
GAMING
Kingdom Hearts III
Eastshade
AfterParty
Without a doubt one of the most anticipated releases of 2019, Kingdom Hearts 3 has now been released to widespread critical and fan acclaim. 13 years in the making, it provides a beautifully crafted conclusion to the tales of Sora, Roxas, and the many more beloved characters born out of the franchise. The series is famous for bringing together beloved Disney properties, from Alice in Wonderland to Hercules, The Little Mermaid to Peter Pan, and combining them with original characters and Square Enix's Final Fantasy creations in order to weave a complex, often mindboggling story that continues to draw in new players even today. Having played earlier instalments of the franchise, and being a fan of narratives that defy easy understanding, I have been keen to pick up this new entry and see what it has to offer. Graphically it looks phenomenal, having come a long way since the series' debut on the PS2, and the new worlds, which include Big Hero 6's San Fransokyo and Frozen's Arendelle, make sure to provide new challenges to fans old and new. The game is more ambitious than any previous entry, with massive open world levels replacing the more traditional sequence of smaller areas, and it's easy to feel nostalgic for a welcome return to the keyblade wielding combat, which here looks better than ever. Perhaps most of all, however, I'm looking forward to getting to see my younger brother play KH3. He picked up some of the earlier games, and has been eagerly awaiting this new instalment ever since. I can't wait to find out how this epic story ends, and to share that experience with him.
Eastshade is an upcoming adventure-driven indie game from Danny Weinbaum and Eastshade Studios in which you play as a painter visiting the gorgeous island of Eastshade. As you are adventuring through the forests, villages, and caves of the island, you find yourself commissioned by the locals to capture on canvas the picturesque landscape surrounding you. With summits to scale and buildings to explore, this game promises to be both beautiful and atmospheric with a soaring soundtrack to accompany the meticulously designed environment. Eastshade trades fast-paced combat sequences for relaxing exploration through expansive vistas and challenges players to slow down and to really absorb their surroundings in search of the perfect framing. As you get to know Eastshade’s inhabitants, local stories begin to reveal themselves telling tales of mysteries and secrets hidden by the island just waiting to be unravelled. The game includes puzzles to solve through a collecting and crafting system, with different areas being inaccessible until you can create the items needed to access them. All in all, Eastshade is a new angle on exploration games, and I am looking forward to it releasing on February 13th. As a fan of games like Firewatch and Dear Esther, I am hopeful that this composition from Eastshade Studios will be a masterpiece.
Get drunk with my best friend, die, go to hell, play beer pong with demons, drink Satan under the table; no, I haven’t accidentally sent in my weekend plans instead of my writing piece, these are the things that you will need to do in order to win back your soul and return to earth in Afterparty by Night School Studios. Following up on the simply stunning Oxenfree was always going to be a hell of a task but judging by the glimpses we’ve been given so far, Afterparty feels like it's going to blow me away just as much. You play as best friends Milo and Lola as they traverse the underworld, taking on various incubi at various party games, drinking contests and dance-offs, all in search of: a) an explanation as to why they’ve been condemned to eternal damnation; b) the opportunity to face the Prince of Hell himself and win back their right to life. I’m pleased to see that the gameplay itself seems very familiar to Oxenfree, with branching dialogue that changes based on your choice of ‘hellcohol’ creating a vast choice-based story that ensures to keep players coming back for more. I’m also extremely happy that the game seems like it will retain the beautiful art-style of its predecessor, albeit with a slight hint of Gorillaz in a coat of neon that really helps bring that ‘popart underworld’ chic to life. I can’t wait to pour myself a glass of ‘famous last words’.
Galen Reich
Crash Team Racing: NitroFueled
Tom Martin
Crash Team Racing was one of the most unique kart racers of its time, featuring an incredible roster of characters, inspired level design and some tight, competitive gameplay. With the rife success of the Crash Bandicoot N. Sane Trilogy it seemed only inevitable this wacky racing title would boost back onto the scene. One of Nitro-Fueled’s biggest draws is its relative difference towards its competitors. Crash Team Racing isn’t just Mario Kart. A major feature of CTR is its adventure mode, featuring characters racing through various tracks and arenas to earn trophies, Relics, Boss Keys and more. Through special objectives, challenges and the hub worlds, one can explore and help set the scene, interacting with familiar Crash characters on your journey to save the world. The prospect of seeing such a rich mode in HD fills me with giddy excitement. It’s this familiarity that I’m most looking forward to, experiencing the best possible version of one of my favourite childhood games. Like the N. Sane Trilogy, the game is being developed from the ground up with all new assets, as well as brand new tracks, kart customisation and online connectivity; even for those who have mastered the original, there is something to constantly come back to. The best thing about this incredible remaster is the renewed accessibility it’s receiving, jumpstarting this classic game for another generation. Sam Nason
Doom Eternal Doom (2016), despite its repetitiveness and weak offerings outside the single-player campaign, was still a great game. Had I actually played it in 2016, it would have easily been my game of that year thanks to an excellent feel for the guns and a fantastic glory kill loop, making for a brilliant combat loop, as well as a great metal soundtrack with solid level design. Even though it was a weak year for games in 2016 it’s still a really, really strong achievement to be my favourite game of 2016, as well as one of my favourite first person shooters ever. Doom Eternal looks, from the gameplay we have seen so far, like a strong build up and extends from Doom’s gameplay, complete with stronger level design and a grappling hook which looks really fun to use. Producers have mentioned some of the multiplayer features they are planning to include into Doom Eternal and, while it’s questionable, I won’t completely write it off. It has been confirmed that players can turn off the multiplayer features anyway, so if they are not great it shouldn’t be too bad. One concern people may have is that the company Bethesda are publishing the game, who are to blame for Fallout 76; however, it is crucial to note that Bethesda are only publishing Doom Eternal, as opposed to developing it. Hopefully ID Software, the developers making this game, can make a very strong follow up from its excellent predecessor. Christopher Hall
Bethesda Studios
Activision
Night School Studio
Eastshade Studios
Square Enix
Olivia Boyce
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Most Anticipated of 2019
Xbox Game Studios
Deep Silver
Yakuza
why you should be excited for some of 2019's biggest releases
Nintendo
Nintendo
Metro Exodus
Yoshi's Crafted World
Animal Crossing (2019)
It has been 4 years since we had a Yoshi based title from Nintendo. Yes, he can frequently be seen in other Mario games but even then, he’s been put on the back burner, with only a cameo in Mario Odyssey. This is why we all are looking forward to his 8th stand alone game, which is coming to the Switch in March this year. Yoshi’s Crafted World is an upcoming side-scrolling adventure game featuring everyone’s favourite green Dragon-horse thing. You play as an adorable Yoshi who has to recover incredibly powerful Gems which have unfortunately been scattered across the Crafted World by Bower Jr. and Kamek. What really sticks out about this game, however is the gorgeous aesthetic the Crafted World presents. Made up of what looks like a Toddler’s collection of arts and crafts pieces, you travel through a world of paper plates, felt squares and knitted apparel, which just evokes such a joyous sensation, I can’t wait to dive in myself. Fans will remember Yoshi’s last game being based around wool and material, and this game takes that artistic drive on step further. Although it is a 2D game primarily, it also incorporates many 3D aspects like throwing eggs (made out of enemies Yoshi’s can eat) at background features like presents or secret items. This game on whole looks like a fun change of pace from other triple A games also coming out in 2019, with a lighthearted take on the Mario world, and a local co-op for two, so you can enjoy a fresh feeling frolic with friends.
I spent a lot of my younger days designing custom pathways for my Animal Crossing: Wild World village. It all felt very whimsical, and I had a genuinely strong attachment to each of my villagers, to the point where I remember crying real tears when they betrayed me and left my village. Unfortunately around the age of fourteen I lost my sense of fun and decided to start only playing ‘real’ consoles with ‘real’ games where everything looks ‘grey’ and ‘awful’. The old me was dead, and I transformed into a basementdwelling PC master-race gamer. However, a couple of years ago I realised that games should be fun, and so decided to save up for a Switch. What I’m trying to get at is that Nintendo, and Animal Crossing, represent a younger, happier version of myself, and that the announcement of a new Animal Crossing title for the Switch is, for me, comparable to what I imagine finding out you’re going to be a parent is like. The funny thing is, on paper Animal Crossing should be the most boring game in the world. And yet, it draws me back every day because it has something that most modern games lack: a pigeon who serves coffee. And also charm – bucket-loads of the stuff. Animal Crossing reels you in with its timeless art style and cute sense of humour. It offers you an escape, and I can’t wait to fall back down the rabbit-hole. As my main man Reggie Fils-Aimé famously said; ‘If it’s not fun, why bother?’
Imogen Mellor
Alex Cirant-Taljaard
'Physics enabled sunbeams' is a phrase that sounds silly enough on its own but it's definitely not one you would associate with the dark, desperate, damp subway stations of the Metro games. In fact, 4A Games' latest foray Metro Exodus is capitalising on that very technology for the re-visioning of the series, and there is so much to discover. Searching for a haven in Vladivostok, Artyom travels the Asiatic continent on the train 'The Aurora' with a motley crew of new-apocalyptic English-speaking Russians. The theme is innovation - the air is breathable but you won't be pawning your gas mask for a grenade just yet. The story takes place over a year, and so each of the sandbox sections change with the seasons. In addition, the player may exploit the new day and night cycle: daytime makes managing the patrols of mutant animals or enemy gangs far easier, but night offers shadows to cloak yourself with. Exodus brings forth the achievements of Metro games into the open world with compressed, tense, tightly packed suspense and slow, eerie, haunted zones of irradiated land. It becomes a question of what you're willing to risk to explore an abandoned shack that could hold the vital crafting material for surviving another few hours. Complex stealth mechanics are familiar to seasoned players yet rewarding to new fans. Though freedom is championed, the developers don't allow the gameplay to unravel to a comfortable double-tap with your trusty overpowered pistol and simplistic loot-hauling. Resources are expectedly scarce, unfortunate mutated humans lurk in every corner and you must adapt to the environment traversed or die. But I didn't want to leave this last hurrah for Metro Exodus on an uncheery note like that, so here's this - there's a technophobic cult that worship a fish called the 'Tsar-fish'. Oh, Russia. Imogen Claire
Gears 5 When Gears of War 4 dropped, it came with the tricky task of trying to continue one of Microsoft’s most important franchises. Whilst it didn’t necessarily nail everything, it was impressive with a strong story, well-honed gameplay and a strong sense of direction. Whilst the multiplayer did feel a bit too much of the same, the horde mode had a good revamp and it felt like a strong transition from Marcus and Dom to J.D. and Kait. Microsoft seemed to realise the importance of this success and with Gears Tactics coming on PC, Gears 5 has a lot of momentum going for it. The E3 2018 trailer was very promising indeed, looking at a game exploring Kait’s character after her traumatic loss at the end of 4. This direction feels like a great way to go, along with continuing the tense atmosphere that the fourth instalment merely teased in the first encounter with the Swarm. The strong supporting players from that game, such as J.D, Marcus Fenix and Del, continue and whilst one wonders how they will try to keep the story heartfelt in this entry, the promise here is intriguing. Whilst the serious, dark tone of the fourth entry worked superbly, the fourth game did also benefit from the fun horde mode, which added new options and combinations of enemies in a revamped, pacey system. The one concern moving forward is hopefully that multiplayer gets a similar reset. Even if it was strong, it can't be overstated how far too familiar the multiplayer mode felt and its need for more than a paint job in custom skins. But with all this said, the Gears series still has life, and if capitalised on, we could have a Gears game unlike it in so many ways - other than just a name change. Alex Green
Judgement Set in the familiar streets of Kamurocho, Judgement is an upcoming Yakuza spin-off with an interesting twist: you’re on the other side of the thin blue line. Previously known as Judge Eyes, the game has you play as detective Takayuki Yagami as he investigates a string of murders in which the victims were found with their eyes missing. Despite the grisly plot, Judgement seems to retain the soul of the other Yakuza games, with the gameplay involving overthe-top, acrobatic combat that would look more at home in a Platinum game than in a serious crime drama. The juxtaposition between the po-faced story and the almost slapstick gameplay is a huge part of the Yakuza series’ unique charm, and should make Judgement similarly compelling. Judgement brings back the style-switching combat from Yakuza 0, which was a refreshing change, and one that was sorely missed in subsequent games. It also introduces detective-themed gameplay changes of its own, and will see you surveilling targets with a drone, and interviewing suspects like in LA Noire. This should switch up the usual Yakuza formula enough to give Judgement an identity of its own, and I absolutely can’t wait for its western release this summer. Rahul Johal
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Redbrick’s Valentine’s Playlist
Redbrick Music's writers have poured out their hearts for this list of the finest love and break-up songs that music has to offer
MUSIC
Elvis Presley - Can't Help Louis Armstrong - La Vie James Blake - A Case Of Daniel Caesar - Get You Falling In Love En Rose feat. Kali Uchis You Gemma Elgar
Christian Nasillo
‘Can’t Help Falling In Love’ is one of ‘Hold me close and hold me fast / The the few classic songs still being re-invented magic spell you cast / This is La Vie En over and over in modern day music, having Rose.’ There is no other love song more been covered by artists varying from hauntingly beautiful than Louis Armstrong’s Twenty-One Pilots to Michael Bublé to take on the Edith Piaf classic. With light acapella band Pentatonix. The lyraccompaniment, the song opens ics are simple, and yet so beauwith Armstrong blowing a timetifully intellectual in their less melody on trumpet and representation of love, painting a poignant picture matched perfectly to the that leaves us hanging gentle rise and fall of onto every note. Without the piano supporting a single word being Presley’s vocals. spoken we are captiDespite originally vated and instantly coming about all the spellbound. It is magiway back in 1961, cal and mystical, Presley’s message is Armstrong’s iconic still poignant as ever. It vocals ooze sentimentells the tale of a hopetality, and the soaring less romance, the kind climax of the final trumso pure and inescapable pet solo will move me Wikimedia Commons that it captivates the mind until the day that I die. Do and soul entirely. Whether you want to believe in the you relate to the meaning of his magic of love? Do you want that words or simply find yourself overcinematic feeling of love existing in a come by the emotion oozing from Presley’s time and place long gone? The feeling of voice, it is undeniable that this song is looking at the world through rose tinted enchanting, and an unparalleled representa- glasses, ‘A world where roses bloom.’ It is tion of love. achingly intimate, begging to be part of your most private moments with the person you love most in the world, a timeless song that is deeply personal and endlessly powerful.
Pixabay
Freddie Clark
Jake Sandy
If you’re looking for a song to tell that A song that opens by lamenting love special someone how much they mean to lost not found is a tough sell for anyone’s Valentine’s Day playlist. However, it’s dif- this Valentine’s Day, then look no further ficult to hear Joni Mitchell’s loosely this heartfelt R&B ballad will say everysketched but timeless lyrical vignettes and thing you need and more. The song's stripped back instrunot buy into her sense of resignamentation lets Caesar’s decation in forever succumbing to dent voice take centre stage the most bittersweet of as he tenderly expresses loves. his feelings of adoration Blake, in his natural and love for his partner. habitat behind a piano, This is perfectly comcaptures Mitchell’s plimented by the meandering tonality seductive bassline and uses her words to throughout the song translate his own irrecthat just oozes passion oncilable emotions. and, when combined He doesn’t seek to with the low- tempo improve upon the origdrums, makes it the inal but manages to perfect addition for your stand alone in a sea of Flickr / The Come Valentine’s Eve playlist. covers by the grace of his Up Show In addition to Caesar’s effortless evocation of pain magnificent performance, through infatuation. Kali Uchis’ soulful vocals are Blake’s ephemeral vocal sucused to great effect to add an extracessfully sells the idea of spending your day, alone or with a partner, basking dimension to the track and provide a fitting in a love, real or imagined, that is both end to an ode to how lucky we are to expenumbing and inescapable. It’s not a candle- rience love. lit dinner or a box of chocolates but it grows more tempting with every listen.
Asking you to condense your heart’s exhilarating highs and crushing lows in the form of a three-minute song always produces such a varied, visceral range of responses. It’s interesting to see the old classics of Elvis Presley, Louis Armstrong and co. joined by upstart romantics James Blake and Ariana Grande, and again proves that timeless truth that, though a cliché, most music is based on human interaction of some kind. Honourable ‘break-up’ mentions include The Clash’s brilliant ‘Train in Vain’ and Elton John’s emboldening hit ‘I’m Still Standing’. On the other side of the spectrum, Mazzy Star’s ‘Fade Into You’ and Radiohead’s ‘House of Cards’ are among the most beautiful songs ever created, while Ja Rule and Ashanti’s ‘Always on Time’ is oh-so, oh-so smooth. Whether you see the day itself as a celebration of romance, a cynical ploy by the florist industry to shift some stock, or an untimely reminder of your solitude in what is already the coldest time of year, try to have a good time. Happy Valentine’s Day!
American Football - Never Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds Ariana Grande - thank u, Meant - There She Goes, My next Seb Rolley Beautiful World Emily Breeds The undisputed anthem of the Midwest Letty Gardner Emo movement, ‘Never Meant’ has soundtracked countless breakups. Nick Cave never falls short of the Is there anything more hearttheatrical in his exaggerated, narbreaking than remembering all rative-driven song writing. the loving and heartfelt things Singing on the loss of his you told your partner before muse, the punchy chorus the breakup? American of ‘There she goes, my Football doesn’t think so, beautiful world / There and aim to ruin you emoshe goes again’ presents tionally by reminding the ultimately upbeat you of this over the three break-up song. ‘You minutes of the track. weren’t much of a There is no combimuse / But then I nation more effective at weren’t much of a bringing out the tears than poet’ depicts Cave heart-breaking lyrics and humorously admitting twinkly Midwestern emo his own fault, elevating Flickr / Oscar instrumentation. the break-up song from the Anjewierden Honestly, don’t play this everyday relationship to the song around me if you want me to creative one. With Cave maintain any level of composure. I’m exclaiming ‘I just wanna move the serious. Please don’t. world’ the track builds and builds; escalating but always crashing back down to ‘There she goes again.’ It is humorous, larger-than-life, but still a stunning and simple song about losing the one.
Outkast - Ms Jackson Kieran Read
You have to wonder what could have been had Andre 3000 and Erykah Badu ‘Take your broken heart and make it held on to their relationship; a wacky, into art’ is certainly a rule Ariana Grande fun-house mirror of Beyonce and Jay Z’s has followed, after a tumultuous coucreative coupling. ple of years with the Manchester It wasn’t meant to be sadly, Arena bombings, the death of though we did get this Mac Miller and her breakup Stankonia cut from the with Pete Davidson. split: an ingeniously ‘Thank u, next’ is a charming ode to the dreamy pop tune that forgotten victims of all can flip even the most messy uncouplings, devastating breakup the parents. You on its head to a posiknow, the ones who tive tale of self-love have to endure hours and growth. Ariana of tearful phone calls gracefully handles the and consistently immense pain that remind you that it was accompanies a breakup entirely ‘them,’ not by treating her exes as ‘you.’ teachers rather than eneAlthough most break Flickr / kobe.briers mies, saying how ‘fucking ups are nothing but pain, I grateful’ she is for them and suppose it’s appropriate that how the pain has made her a better the fallout of two of music’s person who is focused on loving herself. greatest minds would inadvertently birth She repeats this throughout the catchy cho- a bonafide classic. rus, the empowering message rooting itself in your head and encouraging you to do the same. The song reminds us that despite the pain of losing your other half, it leaves space to love yourself.
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Issue 1502 Puzzles compiled by Thom Dent and John Wimperis
Mind+Solve
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Sudoku (Easy)
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4. ARTISAN BROS 5. GREEK BONO 6. SMALL BANK KNACK 7. FIGS LOOSED 8. FIRM ANTS 9. CROW LAD 10. TITANS GET EATERY
LAST ISSUE’S ANSWERS | Crossword: 1. Redbrick; 2a. Straws; 2d. Salisbury 3. Infinity War; 4. Jodie Whittaker; 5. Markle; 6. Logan; 7. Gilets Jaunes; 8. Dwarf; 9. Dubai; 10. Hawking; 11. Selly Cat; 12. Thank u next; 13. Banksy; 14. Floss; 15. Carrot; 16. Coming home; 17. Oscar; 18. Space Force; 19. Bandersnatch | First Lines: Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince (J. K. Rowling); ‘A Natural Woman’ (Aretha Franklin); Lady Bird (Greta Gerwig) | Anagrams: 1. Manchester City; 2. Tottenham; 3. Crystal Palace; 4. Southampton; 5. Liverpool; 6. Manchester United; 7. West Ham United; 8. Leicester City; 9. Newcastle United; 10. Chelsea
Sudoku (Hard)
‘Oh we were born within an hour of each other / Our mothers said we could be sister and brother / Your name was Deborah / It never suited ya’
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songs and films. All you have to do is tell us which novels, songs or films the lines come from.
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‘I scowl with frustration at myself in the mirror. Damn my hair – it just won’t behave, and damn Katherine Kavanagh for being ill and subjecting me to this ordeal.’
1. THERE VIA TOFU 2. THE CRAB PLANK 3. BARNEY HID SHAMPOO
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First Lines
Can you rearrange the words below to find the names of ten film nominees from the upcoming 2019 Oscars?
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Get in touch with Redbrick Mind&Solve by sending all answers, applications and queries to print@redbrick.me. A special mention this week to 2nd year PPE student Martha Ohr, the first person to complete last issue’s puzzles.
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Just Add Nostalgia: Stirring Up Foods from Our Childhoods
From Mum's homemade bread to Turkey Dinosaurs, Redbrick Editors take a trip down memory lane to reflect on their favourite foods from the past
Emily Calder Food&Drink Editor
Boiled Beef and Carrots Nostalgia is most commonly defined as a yearning for or attachment to our pasts, and as students transitioning into adulthood is something that many of us are very familiar with. The foods that we grew up with can remind us of a simpler time, a time when tracking macro-nutrients or the salt
Kat Smith Deputy Editor
content of frozen foods were concepts alien our young minds. The longing I occasionally feel for a vibrant slice of Battenburg cake on a plastic plate, or a bowl of tuna pasta (despite now being vegetarian), is a direct result of the happy childhood memories that I associate eating them with. Following Tesco’s temporary price reduction of the ‘Freddo’ to ten pence in celebration of their 100-year anniversary, Redbrick’s editors have come together to celebrate the foods that remind them of their upbringings. For me, my favourite food as a child was my Grandma’s ‘Boiled Beef and Carrots’. A meal from her own childhood, this was a treat that I would look forward to whenever my parents shipped me off to her house for an evening, and will always be associated in my mind with watching cartoons with a golden retriever at my side.
day and 100% of your recommended daily happiness, you can’t go wrong. While Heinz is largely associated with their renowned baked beans, the creamy tomato-ey goodness always springs to mind when I hear the name. I still get excited when I see they’re on offer, with its taste being both nostalgic and comforting. It’s a scientific fact that eating it releases endorphins*. Since going vegetarian in my teens, I missed chicken soup. Perfect for period pains and rainy days, it was always a go-to. But my trusty Heinz Tomato Soup stuck by me. And for that, I am ever thankful. A few are always nestled in my busy university cupboard and I can always depend on them to transport me back to simpler times. I also highly recommend Yorkshire puddings dipped in them... don’t knock it until you try it. No other brand, place, or person, will come close to rivalling Heinz Tomato Soup as the love of my life.
Heinz Tomato Soup Soup is inherently homely, and nothing epitomises my happy childhood like Heinz’s classic ‘Cream of Tomato Soup’ does. Hardly needing an introduction, it was an exciting feature of many Saturday lunches and sick days-off during school... in short: it’s always been magic in a can to me. Accompanied with buttered bread, it was one meal I would never, and will never, grow tired of. One of your five-a- Resilience Fitness
Laura Botia Travel Editor
Lydia Waller Food&Drink Editor
Smiley Potatoes The stresses of carrying your food technology basket and p.e bag, after doing the bleep test and your first Swiss roll going down the pan in food tech, were just all too much in your school days. Even creeping into the early years of secondary school, that familiar, warm, crispy face of sunshine would still be beckoning you, when the playground politics were just too much to bare. That is the face of the nation’s favourite: the humble potato smiley. Crisp, golden, gleaming, and peaking at their culinary potential when served with beans and fish fingers, these little faces brought joy to my day and my tummy, healing my pubescent panics and stresses about big school and the world getting bigger and bigger- but the smiley stayed small and close to home. A friend for life is the smiley potato.
Deputy Editor
Turkey Dinosaurs ‘One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has not dined well.’ - Virginia Woolf You simply cannot understand the validity of these words, unless you have experienced a turkey dinosaur dinner. Not only did these frozen, gourm e t delights spark moral debate at the dinner table as you pondered whether eating the dinosaurs tail first would Redbubble humiliate it less, or if
Natalia Carter Comment Editor
*obviously not
Paella Coming from a Spanish family, my childhood was inevitably filled with a variety of traditional dishes that encompass the diversity of the Mediterranean diet. However, it was the paella which always took pride of place in the middle of the table. My grandfather would come around at the weekends and, being a chef in his day, would spend a good few hours prepping and cooking a giant paella for the whole family. Spanish families are notoriously big and have an appetite to match.
Issy Campbell
Wikimedia Commons
Paella’s orange colour dominates any spread and its subtle spice is sure to warm the taste buds even in the depths of winter. It is at the heart of Spanish culture and the Mediterranean diet, and has become a staple for me at university after being such a big part of my life at home.
Burger Stacks Every Wednesday my cousins, sister, and I would all go to my Grandad’s house for dinner. As all grandparents endeavour to do, our Grandad likes to make sure that we don’t go hungry and that we get to eat all those slightly guiltier foods our parents rarely cook. Thus, Burger Stacks were created: a humble assembly of waffles, burgers and an optional fried egg. The order of this precarious stack is vital, and I recommend the following from bottom to top: waffle, burger, waffle, fried egg, burger, waffle. Served alongside a hearty helping of baked beans, it was, and still is, the ultimate comfort food. You can also make this dish vegetarian or vegan, simply replace the burger with your choice of alternative and skimp on the egg! I’d recommend following it up with a Cadbury’s Layers of Joy Chocolate Trifle for pudding too...
you should just go straight for the head, satisfying some slightly sociopathic urges. They showed you that your parents loved you. Turkey dinosaurs meant that your parents understood life as a sevenyear-old wasn’t always easy, that you needed to be appreciated as much as the next kid. They knew serving up these golden delicacies would increase your playgroundreputation, they held the power to make or break you. No one wanted to be friends with the kid whose parents never let them eat turkey dinosaurs, did they? These prehistoric reptile shaped turkey treats were more than a food. They could get you to behave, stop crying, do your work and even brush your teeth. They were proof that good karma did exist. Nothing quite says nostalgia like the iconic dinner time meal of turkey dinos, potato smiley faces and beans - that’s just a fact of life.
Redbubble
Alex Cirant-Taljaard Comment Editor
Bread Bread is an incredibly basic food and forms the cornerstone of most of our diets, which is why everyone should be able to make it themselves. This recipe was given to me by my mum, who bakes an inordinate amount of bread for someone who isn’t a professional baker. The nostalgia I feel for this recipe is obviously incredibly subjective and personal, but I feel like many of us have that one particular food our parents make that immediately transports us back to our childhood. Often the smell alone is enough to a dramatic flashback like at the end of Ratatouille. For me, it’s a good loaf of freshly baked bread (which I would then smother in an eye-watering amount of Marmite).
FEATURES
Friday 8th February 2019
www.redbrick.me
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John Rodgers MONDAY 26TH NOVEMBERthese were wildly inappropriate for my age; BurnFM Deputy Station Manager & hearing about how Zeus and co were swalTHE INDIE LOUNGE Secretary lowed by their father to prevent them from @Burn_FM usurping him made for an awkward power FROM 7.30PM listened to Greek myths on tape. Incidentally
A silence descended upon the Burn FM committee when the topic of what to write in our Redbrick article came up. The station has settled back into day-to-day life of second term broadcasting, and whilst some tweaks have been made (we now broadcast music between 11pm and 9am – a 24/7 station ladies and gentlemen!) the general format is still the tried and tested one we all know and love, and not quite worth the prime, 400-word, real estate afforded us by our media neighbours. But, seeking fame BBC (and presumably fortune?), I gallantly volunteered my services to the room, with a half-idea of writing an impassioned article on the amazing versatility of radio, and no doubt doubling membership overnight. Personally, I grew up in a radioloving household, specifically Radio 4, and consequently have The Archers theme forever etched into my head. While admittedly I am not the targeted demographic – being neither over 40, nor able to sheer a sheep – the story never appealed to me, but it was a gateway into radio drama. Audio books followed, and are partially responsible for my degree choice of Ancient History, as I often
dynamic in the house between 8-year-old me and my dad. As I grew older my tastes shifted from the dramatic to the comic. The radio world has just lost comedian Jeremy Hardy, best known for appearing on The News Quiz, and his hilarious rants will certainly be missed: ‘My daughter wanted a new pair of trainers. I told her “You’re eleven, make your own!”’ And, originating with a long-suffering affiliation with Arsenal FC, sports broadcasts soon followed; if you can avoid Danny Mills’ co-commentary, it is actually a really great way to follow live sport. Nowadays my tastes have shifted yet again to Radio 1 style music-based shows, and a large array of podcasts, and it is this versatility that makes radio a special medium. And it is one of my favourite things about Burn FM; where else could you hear an hour of Shakespeare, followed by world music, then rugby, then film review? Whatever your interest, aural media has something for you, and we at Burn are proud to be just a small part of it. Tune in at burnfm.com
Step into The Theatre of Light and Dark
Trips Through Life and Imagination Former English student David Hamilton has his 7th book out in December. It is Step into The Theatre of Light and Dark: Trips Through Life and Imagination. A book of experimental poetry as advertised in the Literary Review.
www.davidhamiltonauthor.co.uk
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CULTURE
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickculture
Review: Circe Emily Breeds Culture Writer
Seven years after the release of her immensely popular book The Song of Achilles which won the Orange Prize for Fiction, Madeline Miller has released a second novel, Circe. Echoing the classical epic traditions, the novel spans over hundreds of years, focusing on the exiled witch Circe’s life and the people that pass through it. The huge time frame is artfully condensed into 350 pages, with Miller’s fluid style ensuring the novel is cohesive and the long time passage seems natural.
“I hope that Miller continues to write such beautiful, profound adaptations of Greek mythology” As with Achilles, Miller has made original classical material her own, and given the relatively minor character Circe a louder voice. Rather than depicting a heroic man as with most classical
tales, Miller tells the tale of a heroic woman. Miller places all the familiar Greek myths such as the Minotaur, Icarus and Daedalus and Odysseus from Circe’s perspective on her remote island. In the wake of sexual harassment allegations in the media, Circe’s transformation of sailors who attempt to violate her into pigs, as well as her defiance against her father and Zeus shows that her story is still necessary many years on. Through telling the story from a female perspective, we see Circe not as the cruel witch she is often portrayed as, but as a woman wronged by her self-obsessed family and carving out a world for herself. However, Miller has received some backlash for not staying true to exact events of the original myths, despite Circe being a tale adapted for modern readers and therefore a standalone text. Whether you’re well-versed in Greek mythology or not, the story is easily accessible to a modern reader due to Miller’s deft interweaving of characters’ backstories and plot. I had enjoyed Achilles so much that I was initially afraid of com-
paring it to Circe in case it didn’t live up to those standards. Whilst Circe was not perhaps the intensely heart-wrenching tale that Achilles was, the story was still beautifully written, told with Miller’s imagery-rich style that constantly nods to classical references. I quickly found myself falling in love with her wonderful storytelling abilities again, forgetting about comparing the novel to Achilles. Miller effortlessly captured that which is impossible to humans, such as eternally living ‘through each scalding moment to the next’ and being able to exist within the ‘dark water’ of the sea. Circe’s character development was impressive and believable, going from a timid girl to a hardened woman shaped by loss and pain. Just as I did with Achilles, I devoured Circe in a few days, never wanting it to end. I hope that Miller continues to write such beautiful, profound adaptations of Greek mythology, as I will very much look forward to them.
Photo provided by pexels. Cover art by Bloomsbury. Author Photo by Nina Subin.
Review: The Map of Salt and Stars Frankie Rhodes Culture Writer
The ongoing Syrian conflict and refugee crisis has remained prominen within the media, as news alerts provide accounts of the con-
flict and suffering. However, such reports often fail to take into account the voices of those affected. In The Map of Salt and Stars, Syrian-American author Jennifer Zeynab Joukhadar places the telling of the story back into the rightful hands of Syrians, through her
compelling tale of one family’s struggle to escape their war-torn country, and re-define what it means to be at home. Joukhadar presents this journey through the eyes of twelveyear old Nour. Having spent most of her life in Manhattan, her family return to their home in Syria, only to find it torn to pieces. Speaking just a sparse amount of Arabic, Nour must come to terms with the loss of a country she barely even knew, attempting to hold onto the fragments of her shattered identity. Running alongside this narrative is the ancient tale of Rawiya, the young apprentice who disguises her gender in order to accompany the map-maker Al-Drisi on his expedition around the globe, with the purpose of creating the most accurate world map ever to exist. Thus, beyond anything else, this is a novel about journeys: it is Nour's journey towards discovering who she really is; Rawiya's journey through unrecorded landscapes, and the Syrian journey towards an unknown and unstable future. Nour’s 12-year-old perspective is particularly interesting, as her character shows aspects of intense, adult-like responsibility and awareness, alongside child-like inquisitiveness and wonder. She marvels at beautiful stones as she stands at the Egyptian border with her family’s life at risk, and muses
on the “colours” of human voices as she waits in hospitals, a contrast which has a harrowing effect on the reader. It reminds us that the bare-footed and solemn-faced children, blurred into a position of anonymity, are dealing with so much at such a young age. This idea also links to the strong-willed character of teenage Rawiya, forced out of childhood and femininity in order to hold rank as part of an esteemed expedition. She is depicted as Nour’s idol: hers is the story she was told each night, and hers is the sense of hope she carries with her.
“A compelling tale of one family’s struggle to escape their war-torn country, and re-define what it means to be at home” A reviewer on Goodreads described the novel as being ‘to Syria what the Kite Runner was to Afghanistan,’ though I regard this comment as quite reductive. Linking the two novels together
based on their depictions of suffering might imply that writers from or writing about such countries can only tell one type of story. In fact, this comment also ignores the influence of Rawiya's narrative, which moves beyond harsh reality to the realm of fantasy. The expedition is taunted by a mythological bird of prey, one of many fantastical obstacles they face during their journey. Whilst Joukhadar based the map-maker, Al-Drisi, on a real individual, the rest of the narrative was fabricated to create a kind of ancient fable, exploring a genre of writing that is often absent in the world of modern literature. This decision was not random – Rawiya's story, albeit fictional, draws interesting parallels with Nour’s life, which the reader becomes increasingly aware of throughout the novel. The Map Of Salt And Stars tells the story of a Syria that is both a place of conflict, and much more beyond this, with its own, often forgotten beautiful culture and history. The life of a 12-yearold child is not defined only by conflict and loss, but also by magic, imagination (and yes, indeed, ‘Salt’ and ‘Stars.’) What Joukhadar has managed to achieve, within her debut novel no less, is the welcome telling of a story that re-establishes the humanity behind terms such as ‘refugee’, providing a refreshing and deeply emotional alternative to the media’s often more disconnected depiction. Author Photo: Neha Gautam. Book cover: Simon and Schuster.
CULTURE
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickculture
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Redbrick Meets: Alice Procter Orla Taylor-Davies Culture Writer
‘Uncomfortable Art Tours’ are the brainchild of Alice Procter, a historian of Material Culture based at UCL and writer and podcaster at The Exhibitionist. Alice independently creates an educational space in museums and galleries that address how big-name institutions exert considerable power as upholders of colonial rhetoric. From the display of stolen sacred objects, positioning the object as now
‘ours’, to the celebration of colonial tropes such as the intrepid explorer of the ‘undiscovered’ or the ‘civiliser’ of the ‘primitive’, Alice highlights the importance of criticality in institutions that are anything but neutral. Orla Taylor-Davies was lucky enough to interview Alice after she gave a one-off tour of Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery on Saturday 19th January. Orla: So, I know that The Exhibitionist started through your podcast, how did this evolve into these tours? Alice: Yeah! The podcast and the tours just both came out of a situation where I was in museums all the time, looking at the stories they were telling, looking at the narratives they are putting forward and feeling really frustrated with what I saw. I started the podcasts before I graduated because I really wanted a way to keep on talking about art while I was looking for a job and doing other work, and I wanted to keep having those conversations about art spaces and museum display. From there, I already had tour guiding experience and I was talking with friends about trying to find a way to share this, and it was originally going to be an audio guide. So halfway between the podcasts and what the tours are now- talking about art collections, talking about these things. And then I said, actuallythat would be a bit boring. Just me telling the story without the conversation about being in the gallery. Orla: Have you ever encoun-
tered any resistance to your tours by the public or institution? Alice: Yes, it does happen. I don’t tend to get resistance from somebody that has brought a ticket and come on the tour. I’ve had people ask ‘Oh, is it an echo chamber then?’ and it really depends on whether that’s a bad thing or not. What matters is it is a sympathetic conversation between people who want to engage with the same subject, and you can call that an echo chamber or a classroom, depending on how you want to view it. I have had negative responses from people who happen to be in the galleries, generally older white men with very critical responses. Someone got very angry that I was being mean to the Tate Gallery, treating them unfairly and not giving them the benefit of doubt and I engaged with him for as long as was necessary and then said, this is a private tour, we are having a very specific conversation, but thank you for sharing your opinion. He followed the tour for the rest of its duration, coughing very loudly, which I wouldn’t even call childish - its beyond ridiculous. Sometimes people will say I’m being too critical. Somebody said that I shouldn’t give my opinion about the artwork but of course I’m going to have something to say about the depiction of Queen Victoria as the ultimate white saviour. But as I said doing the Birmingham tour, I have a no devil’s advocate rule, I’ve never had to ask for
someone to leave, I’ve never had someone on tour to start trouble. I start tours with a warning that this is an empathetic space where we respect the fundamental humanity of everyone here and to be as kind and intersectional as possible while still being critically engaged, we will do this without attacking everyone.
“I was in museums all the time, looking at the stories they were telling, looking at the narratives they are putting forward and feeling really frustrated with what I saw” Orla: Well, you’re definitely making history a lot more engaging. Are there any resources you would recommend for any students who just want to learn more about these conversations? Alice: The Museum is not Mutual have an amazing, crowd sources reading list that is fantastic and has everything. It’s hard because some of the
resources are very specialised and quite narrow material. Exhibition catalogues are always a good place to start especially if you can get it from a library, seeing what objects are included and how they are described so you can try to read critically because it can be overwhelming to do that in an exhibition. I think one of the best resources is twitter, you get so many recommendations there. The Instagram account for decolonise this place (@decolonizethisplace) which is an activist collection based in the states working on colonial history often with a contemporary stance. For example, they have an ongoing action at the Whitney Museum because one of the governors is financially involved in creating weapons that are being used against refugees at the American border, so they occupied the Museum as part of the process. They are fantastic people doing important and difficult work. The full interview can be found on www.redbrick.me/culture. Alice is returning to Birmingham to give a tour of the Barber Institute of Fine Arts 28th May. For more information visit: barber.org.uk/ events/..More information about Alice’s work and the ‘Uncomfortable art Tours’ dates and locations can be found on https://www.theexhibitionist.org/ Photo: Charlie Guthleben via Greene & Heaton.
Review: UoB G&S’ Ruddigore George Davies Culture Writer
UoB’s Gilbert & Sullivan Society have put out another instalment in their ongoing success of making two-century-old satirical operettas enjoyable in the current year. Ruddigore follows in the immediate footsteps of the Mikado, Iolanthe, Gondoliers, and Pinafore in confronting a perhaps unwitting audience with a violent incineration of their expectations. They manage to combine ’s humour, already so far removed from stereotypical Victorian fustiness, with the cast and creatives’ Monty-Pythonisms – much to the delight of everyone involved. For the uninitiated, Ruddigore is about a count of a cursed line: the curse being that the count of Ruddigore must commit a crime every day or die. Throw in some absurd matchmaking, a fosterbrother lost at sea, and forging one’s own will, and you’re all up to speed. The play opened with a darkly brooding overture, which is delightfully quaint, taking us back to a past time without our constant need for instant gratification and short attention-spans. There was something oddly comforting amid essay dead-
lines, dissertation work, etc., about seeing an empty stage and for 5 or so minutes being able to just watch the orchestra bowing strings and puffing at oboes. It was good to see that the orchestra got their time in the ‘spotlight,’ as one can often forget in the effortless grace of classical music that an awful lot of effort is required. The orchestra did hit a couple of bum notes throughout the 2-and-a-half-hour show – but this only goes to attest to the skill of the endeavour: these musicians have put together almost 3 hours of classical orchestral music alongside their studies. Bravo!
“It was all-in-all a thoroughly enjoyable evening” The plot, as is usual fare with G&S, is a glorious mess of obscure historical references and Victorian law and etiquette, which must have been somewhat irreverent in its time of composition, and even more so now. This naturally leads to an attitude of whimsy and silliness both from the play text and everything interpretive the cast were doing around it, the latter including but not
limited to: the cast conducting itself; an army of talking paintings harassing the protagonist, and an impromptu folk-dancing competition. Rob Russo accidentally did a brilliant impression of that great Victorian tragedian Henry Irving in his turn as the eponymous Ruddigore, combining the heights of camp tragic acting with Rowan Atkinson-esque clowning. It was certainly a novel approach, and it had the audience in fits of laughter, with plenty of silly expressions and slapstick comedy attached somewhat incongruously to a dulcet classical bass voice. Sophie Patterson was also fantastic as the posh and prissy Rose Maybud, fated to marry one of the three Ruddigore relatives to enter the scene, who lives by the only divinely ordained law: that of Victorian etiquette. Her acting was most humourous and her British Broadcasting accent, affected to pantomimic proportions, was just the perfect accoutrement to everything she was doing. The singing was on the whole very strong given the classical mode of performance – no microphones! – but this did mean that a couple of the soloists of weaker voices were hard to make out, which was a shame given that the text was brilliant and none of the
acting could be criticised. Special mention is reserved for Hattie Pinches, returning to UoBG&S with a darkly comic turn as Mad Margaret, who, being mad, had a very interesting relationship with the fourth wall and a hilarious relationship with her script. The play concluded, as all G&S do, with a ‘bow’: an absurd piece of artifice which ties up all of the loose ends -yes, absolutely all- of the messy plot into something quite neat. The bow usually relies on an obscure legalistic paradox, in this case it was that to not commit the daily crime would be to court death and therefore to
do so is to attempt suicide – itself a crime, freeing Ruddigore from his moral burden and causing the audience to scratch their heads or laugh uproariously. The cast were then bowed out to a lovely fanfare from the orchestra and much applause from the audience – there were even calls for an encore, much to the bemusement of the conductor. It was all-in-all a thoroughly enjoyable evening, and your writer cannot recommend enough catching UoB G&S’ next show, whatever it may be. Photo: G&S Society
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MUSIC
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickmusic
Live Review: Ben Howard Gabrielle TaylorDowson Music Critic
If you know Ben Howard, it is most likely that you know him from his first album, the Britaward-winning breakthrough that was Every Kingdom. It was a record that perfectly encapsulated Howard’s vibe: a free-spirited surfer who spends his days with his toes in the sand and pine-needles in his hair. It was decidedly folkie, the deftly-plucked guitar strings and happy choral harmonies evoking images of long summer days. Noonday Dream is the opposite, a far cry from the sounds that initially shot him to fame. The performance at the Symphony Hall starts with the jarring buzzing-bee noise that signals the start of the song ‘A Boat To An Island On The Wall.’ The seven-piece band that accompanies Howard on stage is, with the quietly powerful opener, given the chance to immediately show its skill, building layer upon layer of sound, a growing intensity that envelops the audience. The stage is not anything fancy, the focus meant to be solely on Howard, his voice and the music – and it is. The only kind of stage production is the strobe lights and big screen behind Howard and the band, upon which various images of flowers and storms and fields appear, coinciding with the different moods of each song. In this way, it is clear that the only faint shadow of similarity between Howard’s old and new music is his use of the natural world to communicate and convey emotions.
Howard continues strongly, the next two songs (‘Towing The Line’ and ‘Nica Libres at Dusk’) being the other standouts from the album. But with the completion of arguably the three most enjoyable songs so soon into the set, the audiences interest begins to fade. For the remaining hour and a bit of
dulgent – which makes the performance equally so. Howard mumbles into the microphone mid-set that the latest album was ‘basically a love affair with [him] self.’ Howard is not trying to please anyone but himself with this music. There are lots of times during the performance w h e n
hunched over his guitar. He does give a vague nod to the fan favourites with a stripped back version of ‘Everything’ from his first album, but it is not really the same when it is done only with a drum machine. No amount of calling or cheering from the crowd gets Howard to give in, not even for the speedy encore, which he makes his newest single for 2019, ‘Heave Ho’.
“Is it the audience’s own fault for feeling unfulfilled?”
Howard’s Howard performvisibly Flickr / Maggie Boyd ance, there is a becomes lost in change in the mood the music, in his of the audience. There is a own world, and it feels lot of fidgeting and shuffling and more like we as the audience are whispering around me, and peo- watching a chilled-out, private ple often and in large groups stand recording session rather than an from their seats to go the bar, exciting, engaging show. For obviously not feeling like they ‘Towing The Line’, he does not would be missing out on anything. even face the crowd, instead Admittedly, this album is self-in- choosing to look to the side,
I can imagine quite a few people left the show feeling dissatisfied. But Howard never sold this tour as a best-of, so is it the audience’s own fault for feeling unfulfilled, having expected something that Howard gave zero indication of providing? Arguably, musicians have a sort of responsibility to meet their fans halfway – not all of the time, but enough to satisfy the masses, maybe, to throw in a few crowd-pleasers here and there. Howard has never done that, though, and by the looks of it he isn’t going to start, either. He has a vision for each album he puts out and sticks to like glue. Whether you enjoy it or not is a matter of whether, as a fan, you choose to adapt with Ben Howard as an artist, or remain a lover of his older works. Ideally, we – and Howard – can do both.
Single Review: Loyle Carner - You Don’t Know Matthew Johnson Music Critic
In January, Loyle Carner debuted his single ‘You Don’t Know’ following the release of ‘Ottolenghi’ in October. Loyle Carner has been killing the UK hip hop scene in the last couple of years. His sophomore album Yesterday’s Gone received much critical acclaim, leaving us with stratospheric expectations for the next project. Carner has never struggled singing about some very deep and personal aspects of his private life. Some have described this as ‘awkwardly confessional’, but fuck that, as I see it he’s the greatest rapper out there right now in the UK scene. I saw him last summer in the O2 Institute in Birmingham, and he makes sure that while his audience enjoy the music and have a great time, he makes special interjections to explain the meaning and the gravity of his tracks, often about his little sister, or his father who he had minimal contact with, or Jean, his single mum holding their family together through thick and thin. It feels like after listening to ‘Tierney Terrace’ and
Yesterday’s Gone that I know Loyle personally, and I’m sure plenty of other fans feel the same way. ‘You Don’t Know’ is the latest instalment in his lyrical autobiography, and delves into the emotions he feels towards his single mother entering the dating scene. This hits close to home for me and many other fans, I’m sure they will feel a lot of the emotions he’s spitting in this absolute tune. The track opens with an instrumental that is jazzy, anthemic, and represents a rapper who has matured not only in age but in his musical style, executed perfectly by Rebel Kleff. It sounds like it belongs on a Dre track from 2001, but Carner’s presence on the track is felt like a shockwave – 2019 is going to be yet another monumental year for the young artist. Not only does he deliver the funkiest bars of the year so far, but the hilarious music video adds so much life and feeling into the track. Loyle handles the first verse with lyrical mastery and delivers that smooth flow we look for him to reliantly deliver, which of course he does. The verse flows out smoothly into the catchy chorus – ‘You don’t knooooooow’ –
from Kiko Bun, and the first few lines of his second verse literally flow off the tongue, and give so much impact right away, delivering the message he wants plain and simple for you: ‘Uh, uh, so why you crying / Stop the crying I weren’t crying on you / Stop the lying, worry ‘bout them brothers lying on you / They’re sliding on you, bump ‘n grind every night up on you / Getting sly up on you, cry up on you, then get tired of you.’
in the upcoming album, as they simply destroy this track – the synergy between them is harmonious and so, so smooth.
Editors’ picks: Bil Ryder-Jones, Castle & Falcon, 16th February This gig is completely unmissable. For years now, Warrington’s Ryder-Jones has carved out brilliantly dark, heart-breaking songs on records like 2015’s West Kirby County Primary and last December’s confessional Yawn. Take the opportunity to share a room of this quirky Moseley pub with such a talent. Nils Frahm, O2 Academy, 20th February Berlin-based music producer Nils Frahm will be gracing Birmingham’s O2 Academy with his experimental pianodriven sounds and electric performance. With a vast and incredible discography under his belt, Frahm melds electronic and classical music together, working interestingly through unconventional piano approaches and celebrated performance. His music is eerie, calming, exciting, varied whilst still being indisputably his, and not something you want to miss.
Wikimedia Commons / Claudia Godke
Best of the rest: CHVRCHES, O2 Academy, 8th-9th February The Amazons, Hare & Hounds, 13th February White Denim, O2 Institute, 13th February The Floating World, Cafe Artum, 14th February Beans on Toast, Castle & Falcon, 15th February
“Carner has never struggled singing about some very deep aspects of his private life” It is important to note that Rebel Kleff not only features with his crystal clean, punchy production, but he also handles a hardhitting middle verse between Carner’s two. This mix of two upand-coming British rappers is something I hope we see more of
Upcoming Events:
The Lemonheads, O2 Academy, 15th February Hippo Campus, O2 Institute, 18th February The Orielles, Hare & Hounds, 19th February Fatboy Slim, Arena Birmingham, 22nd February Percolate (with Denis Sulta), The Mill, 22nd February Flickr / Stéphane Gueguen
MUSIC
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickmusic
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Single Review: Single Review: Sigrid Foals - Exits - Don’t Feel Like Crying Kat Smith Deputy Editor
Foals have offered a taste of their incoming 2019 takeover with their first single in four years, ‘Exits’. Offering no releases since the critically-acclaimed What Went Down, Foals left fans waiting long enough for a taste of new music. Their comeback needed to be something special, and they have certainly met my expectations. Marking the beginning of the era of their fifth studio album, the whimsical lyrics of ‘Exits’ and the equally surreal music video that accompanies it promises the return of the Foals we know and love. Merging vintage-inspired filmography, settings and costumes with apocalyptic and futuristic scenes, the lengthy video is an entity in its own. I can only hope this vision is emulated in their forthcoming album. They have already established themselves as connoisseurs of unconventional lyrics and song titles (‘Milk and Black Spiders’ is probably the prime case study), but ‘Exits’ seems to be marking the beginning of an even more surreal side of the band. The tracklist of their upcoming album Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost Part 1 looks like it will fol-
low in kind, with song titles ‘White Onions’, ‘Syrups’ and ‘I’m Done With The World (& It’s Done With Me)’ forecasting a similar vibe.
“It marks the beginning of an even more surreal side of the band” Speaking to NME, frontman Yannis Philippakis said that ‘Exits’ is intended to ‘paint a visual picture with words about the state of where we’re at,’ such as the state of the environment and lack of privacy. Philippakis started ‘fantasising about a way of living underground [...] in this warped and surreal landscape.’ This year will see not one but two albums from the rock band. Everything Not Saved Will Be Lost Part 1 will be released on 8th March while Part 2 is expected to drop in Autumn. Foals will be touring in the UK during June 2019.
Issy Campbell Deputy Editor
Every great pop song makes you question whether you’ve already listened to it before you actually have. Sigrid’s latest single does exactly that. Her career has skyrocketed since being named BBC’s Sound of 2018, which may explain why ‘Don’t Feel Like Crying’ is her most mainstream single yet. From the abrupt and startling intro, to the fade-out at the end, it ticks every pop-lovers box. That being said, her unique vocals can still be heard as she ascends into the higher notes of the chorus, singing ‘I dry my eyes ‘cause I don’t feel like crying’ in a way that’s both powerful and soft. With a lower spoken part to the song, in a typical pop-not-rap manner, you can’t help but bob your head along to the beat. Unlike many great pop songs, however, it actually sounds better live. In her Vevo upload, the Norwegian singer strips back the track entirely, accompanied only by a piano and a backing vocalist providing hair-raising harmonies. Her ability to capture raw emotion is far more evident in her
live rendition, and the song really shows off her ability to sing such intricate melodies. The spoken section is punchier, and the general vibe truer to earlier tracks like ‘I Don’t Want To Know’ and ‘Dynamite’. In her defence, it isn’t that original is bad, it’s just that its way better live. Come the summer, ‘Don’t Feel Like Crying’ will come into its element, playing loud out of car radios with the
windows wound down. It is a real feel-good track, but I really hope Sigrid’s fame does not result in her moving into mainstream pop. She has a lot more to offer than I think this track shows, and I imagine anyone who has seen her live can testify to that.
Greatest Hits: Seb Rolley
Music Writer Seb Rolley talks us through the five songs that have comprised the soundtrack of his music life
Fugazi - Waiting Room As probably my first proper gateway into hardcore and its associated genres, I owe a lot of who I am today to this track. Fugazi are a band that not only influenced me musically, but also socially and politically. Ian McKaye’s lyrics about social mobility and social injustice really struck a chord with me, inspiring me to become more socially aware and to begin to engage in activism. The track’s individual significance to me aside, the fact it then led to some of my absolute favourite bands such as Minor Threat and Bad Brains means it’s easily deserving of a place on this list.
Kendrick Lamar - King Kunta
Ian Dury & The Blockheads - Sweet Gene Vincent
‘King Kunta’ is possibly the single most important song in my life for opening new areas of music to me. Before listening to this song at the release of To Pimp a Butterfly my interest in rap and jazz music was minimal. However, over three minutes this tune opened the gates to both of these genres and introduced me to some of my favourite artists of all time: Kendrick and Thundercat. I can remember listening to this track on repeat for at least a day, finding new things with every listen. It was like absolutely nothing I’d ever heard before. Having only heard the pop rap of the charts, Kendrick’s style was mind-blowing, showcasing musicianship I had incredibly naively believed was restricted to music outside of rap.
If there was one album that defines my musical exposure as a child, it would be New Boots and Panties by Ian Dury, in particular ‘Sweet Gene Vincent.’ There is something infinitely charming about this humorous yet deeply heartfelt tribute to Gene Vincent, one of Ian’s favourite singers. Ian’s voice is instantly identifiable, injecting more character into every syllable than almost any other singer I know. This album received more play during car journeys than any other when I was a child, soundtracking journeys all over the country. It remains one of the few albums from that period that I truly love; a highly underrated, classic record.
My Bloody Valentine Only Shallow The first four seconds of this song took everything I thought I knew about guitar playing and destroyed it. The sounds that Kevin Shields creates on this track are furious, noisy and unbelievably beautiful. With absolutely no understanding of how a guitar could make these sounds like a (very nice-sounding) tortured hoover, my first listen of this track sent me on a mission to try and make my guitar sound even vaguely like Kevin’s. This was also one of the first truly experimental songs I loved, pushing me to open my ears to weirder and weirder sounds, and leading me to tackle albums and tracks which would have otherwise been way too unusual for me enjoy.
Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds - Magneto This song was the single most powerful live experience of my life, as well as being off one of my favourite albums of all time. This track perfectly encapsulates for me the tone of Skeleton Tree, an absolutely bleak, yet somehow unspeakably beautiful record dealing with grief. Adding to its significance, in 2017 at a gig in Nottingham, Nick chose to sing a verse of this tune directly to me, a moment which will forever cement this song as one of the most special and meaningful to me. It’s impossible for me to listen to this track now without getting instant goosebumps. A ridiculously powerful statement on grief from my all-time favourite songwriter.
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FILM
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickfilm
Oscar Nominations Round-up Film Critic Sam Denyer reacts to the Academy's announcement Sam Denyer Film Critic
The announcement of a Best Popular Film Oscar category in August 2018 was not met warmly. Reservations mostly revolved around the fact that the award presupposes that popularity and quality could not coexist in the eyes of the Academy. The backlash was enough to shelve the award; clearly, the Academy thought that the counter arguments were salient enough to rethink the idea. Reactions were mixed when films such as Black Panther and Bohemian Rhapsody, potential recipients of the proposed award, received 'Best Picture' nods on 22 January 2019, amidst a slate of nominations not lacking in surprises.
“Black Panther's nomination is a surprise for a whole multitude of reasons” Black Panther's nomination is a surprise for a whole multitude of reasons. It is the first superhero film to enter this elite category, succeeding where the likes of The Dark Knight and Wonder Woman have failed. Part of its potency is its milestone status as a Hollywood blockbuster with an almost all-black cast. Helmed by Ryan Coogler, this platform gave
it the ability and confidence to tackle institutional racism in a way which other films of its scale have not yet dared. Its creators possess the autobiographical experience necessary to make this message feel vital, not sanitised, as some have accused of Green Book, also nominated. Other Marvel features may have superior action or effects, but Black Panther weaponised the injustice felt by those who made it to offer mainstream cinema's most prominent address of racism yet. Some may protest its presence in a category with films that are arguably better made, but Black Panther's cultural impact amongst its peers is unmatched, deserving of recognition detached from its admittedly impressive popularity. Bohemian Rhapsody's woes have been widely publicised. Original director Bryan Singer was removed from the film after erratic attendance and allegations of bullying on set. Such incidents were merely his third strike; Singer has been accused of sexual harassment by several men, some of whom claimed to have been minors at the time. He continues to find work in Hollywood today. Dexter Fletcher took over the reins as director after Singer's dismissal and managed to piece together a fun - if flawed - biopic of an undeniably compelling figure. The Academy picking films with popular support but a lukewarm critical response is not exactly a novelty, but Bohemian Rhapsody made the shortlist in spite of criticisms regarding its treatment of its subject, Freddie
Mercury. Besides the universally praised Live Aid sequence, many found issue with the film's fixation on his relationship with Mary Austin over his romantic male interests, arguing that it was not an honest portrayal of one of the most famous queer men in history. Others have levelled accusations of emotional exploitation, with the film placing Mercury's HIV diagnosis and his subsequent confession to the rest of Queen before Live Aid in 1985, despite such events taking place in 1986 and 1989 respectively. This prioritisation of legend over truth has made an already controversial film even more contentious. The Academy clearly enjoyed it enough to overlook such complaints.
“Bohemian Rhapsody made the shortlist in spite of criticisms” Elsewhere, Yalitza Aparicio and Marina de Tavira's surprise nominations for their acting in Roma bode well for the film's overall chances. Both beat bigger names, such as Nicole Kidman and Emily Blunt, which may be a sign that Roma will topple The Favourite and A Star is Born in the Best Picture race. Alfonso Cuarón's Netflix feature is a technical marvel but also packs the emotional punch Oscar voters love. Its momentum in below-theline categories makes it a decent
bet for a consensus Best Picture pick; even those who do not love the story can at least appreciate the technical showcase it offers in gorgeous black and white.
“Spike Lee recorded his firstever nomation for BlacKkKlansman” In Best Director, Spike Lee recorded his first-ever nomination for BlacKkKlansman, an astounding fact given that his filmography also includes films as good as Do the Right Thing Thing.. Pawel Pawlikowski beat out Bradley Cooper and a slew of deserving female directors (including Chloé Zao and Debra Granik) in the fifth slot for his stunning Cold War.. It is not often that the Academy chooses a black and white foreign film for one of its top awards, let alone two. Such might reflect its shifting demographics after several waves of new diverse members were inducted in the wake of the #OscarsSoWhite campaign. The presence of more traditionally Oscar-friendly picks such as Green Book makes it hard to draw conclusions just yet, but if Roma wins big on 24 February, then surprises such as these might become more and more common in the coming years. They will be welcome if they are all as good as Roma.
AMPAS
Review: How to Train Your Dragon 3 The Hidden World neatly caps off this daring DreamWorks trilogy Alisha Shah Film Critic
The Hidden World is the final film of the How to Train Your Dragon trilogy by DreamWorks Animation. Following the events of the second movie, the island of Berk has grown into an ideal utopia with dragons and humans living side-by-side. However, with the pressures of overpopulation, as well as the dragons becoming a target of dragonhunter Grimmel the Grisly, Hiccup makes the decision that they need to journey to the Hidden World – where the dragons would be safe.
“It has to be said that this movie is stunning” First of all, it has to be said that this movie is stunning and lives up to the previous two films in artistic brilliance. Of course, the use of colours and the flying scenes maintain their sense of uniqueness, whilst still being a staple of the franchise. Particularly, the environment design expands the world – allow-
ing us to visit visually rich new locations, and in this area, The Hidden World goes beyond its predecessors. The music is once more wonderfully scored by John Powell. A trademark of the series, The
Universal Pictures
“The Hidden World excels in executing seemingly simple storylines” Hidden World excels in executing seemingly simple storylines. The core of the movie focuses on the final leg of Hiccup’s (reprised by Jay Baruchel) journey, as he settles in as the chief. His relationship with his dragon Toothless is, naturally, the key to this. As Toothless finds his own place with his palette-swapped mate, the ‘Light Fury’ dragon, Astrid (America Ferrera) and Hiccup’s relationship also regains focus. It continues to be a genuinely wellwritten romance, especially by the standards of many other animated works or even movies predominantly aimed at ‘children’. This movie is emotionally attuned with the characters who matter, and its
leisurely pace allows for the emotional beats of each moment to play out in full, thus cleanly executing three core character arcs.
“[It is] a wonderful end for this series” The main problem with the story is that, because of its relative simplicity, there is a divergence from the core storyline, whether this be on generic villains or extended scenes of Toothless being cute for the children. Of
these two, it is clear that the villain is underwhelming. Grimmel the Grisly (voiced by F. Murray Abraham) is a simple antagonist with little presence, though he is suitably threatening enough at times, and he does hold thematic relevance. The side-characters remain as side-characters, although some minimal attempts at storylines with the wider group is attempted and so at times the focus awkwardly shifts. That being said, the focus otherwise is appropriately on the main three. The conclusion of the film itself is particularly long, but it does justice in tying up those respective loose ends rather than
rushing the ending. The Hidden World is therefore a wonderful end for this series of movies. There is potential for future movies seemingly, but it is clear that the journey of Toothless and Hiccup is at an end. VERDICT: A beautiful and touching ending to the How to Train Your Dragon series – this is a spectacular animated feature which is well worth seeing in cinemas as soon as possible.
FILM
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickfilm
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Netflix’s 2018: A Film Success Story Film Critic Alex Green reflects on an impressive year for the streaming giant Alex Green Film Critic
2018 ended up being a pretty great year for film. After the industry took a huge public bashing following the #MeToo movement in 2017, Hollywood and the world’s film industry had to face facts and turn itself around, both on and off-screen, with questions of diversity and basic workplace etiquette that needed answering. And whilst not perfect, with films such as Bohemian Rhapsody, that still have the poison of Bryan Singer’s allegations hanging over it, the industry made strides in the right direction on screen in 2018. Films like BlacKkKlansman, The Hate U Give and Black Panther furthered the representation of black actors to critical and commercial success. Love, Simon and The Miseducation of Cameron Post gave the LGBT community a much-needed spotlight on the big screen. 2018 may have changed the film industry in many ways.
“Netflix's 2018 felt remarkably different from their previous years”
All images from Netflix
One of the biggest gamechangers may not be getting all the recognition it deserves. Netflix’s 2018 felt remarkably different from their previous years, with regards to their usually casual approach to film. Last year, film took up more of the spotlight in Netflix’s marketing alongside their original TV content. This makes sense as they announced to investors that their marketing budget would increase to $2 billion at the start of 2018, and midway through the year, it was revealed the content budget would dramatically increase to an estimated $13 billion. With all this investment, Netflix has reaped success this year with a diverse and intriguing selection. It’s a pick-andmix of film, full of all sorts of stuff that has elements of anything and everything. Looking back on the bigger releases for Netflix shows this in action. The biggest commercial success appears to be the Sandra Bullock-led, post-apocalyptic Bird Box, with Netflix boasting over 45 million views over the first week of release – if you’re willing to believe their PR department. Besides this, Netflix’s film menu had Duncan Jones’s latest sci-fi appetiser in Mute, the disturbing horror main course Apostle, a splash of teenage drama like To All the Boys I Loved Before and Sierra Burgess is a Loser, and some hints of a western in The Ballad of Buster Scruggs. Add to that Alfonso Cuarón’s critically-acclaimed Roma as a dessert, and Netflix had a brilliantly varied palate in their film section this year.
The key thing to note here is that these weren’t all critical successes, more a microcosm of cinema itself. Films like Mute and Bird Box received extremely mixed reception, some were straight-to-DVD-esque fodder and some weren’t even meant for Netflix, like Annihilation, which only got its non-US distribution via Netflix. But some did receive praise: Apostle was praised for its brutal horror; Annihilation was a good dose of smart, creepy sci-fi; To All the Boys I Loved Before was charming enough to be getting a sequel.
“These weren't all critical successes, more a microcosm of cinema itself” Of course, the biggest critical success belongs to Roma. Alfonso Cuarón’s autobiographical piece is, at the moment, in the running for ten Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Imagine that: a Netflix film nominated for the biggest Oscar. Add to that three nominations for The Ballad of Buster Scruggs, and Netflix are clearly starting to be more accepted by the Academy selection committee than ever before. This nomination success is so important for a company who are always trying to impress an industry that is still so conflicted on streaming services and their impact on the world of film. In 2017, Netflix’s submission of Okja for the Palme d’Or (the top prize at the Cannes Film Festival) proved controversial, with the film receiving boos when the Netflix logo appeared. Whether you think that this was justifiable or that those who attend the Palme d’Or are far too snobbish on streaming services, it is a fact that Netflix has never been a true part of the awards conversation. Last year changed that wholesale, and Netflix has proven they can make some truly great films on the platform. What’s more important for their staying power as a film distributor is the talent they have attracted in the last year. On the directorial side, Cuarón, the Coen brothers, Gareth Evans, Paul Greengrass, David Mackenzie and so on, show the ability Netflix has in attracting directors with unique visions and pedigree in the industry. It is crucial for any distributor to attract exciting names for your projects and to be able to demonstrate that you are looking for creative minds. Netflix understands this down to a tee, obviously drawing on the experience of developing their many acclaimed original series.
“Netflix had a brilliantly varied palate in their film section this year”
Similarly, it wasn’t just the directorial talent who made splashes on Netflix. Sandra Bullock, Kurt Russell, Michael Sheen, Paul Rudd, Tim Blake Nelson, Liam Neeson and Chris Pine are just some of the stars that hopped onto the smaller screens this year. These are Hollywood stars and acclaimed actors, whose work is known worldwide, choosing to spend their time on these Netflix projects. For the service to break into the Hollywood elite club, they’ve needed to get some insiders to join them. Shrewd move, Netflix. Whilst these successes were big for Netflix, it’s important to take stock of the landscape. They are in an incredibly competitive industry with Amazon Prime, Hulu and so many other streaming services, so they need to keep this momentum up this year to prove that last year wasn’t a fluke. It also should be said that they are not the biggest distributor in the world, despite their accessibility. They still need to iron out the kinks in their weaker projects and look at being more diligent in what they promote and support in order to be a great studio. As harsh as it sounds, the great studios are not defined by being decent. That said, they need to allow more debutantes onto the surface as well and look to give chances to new filmmakers, who need them to get their big break. It’s a delicate balancing act that must be struck precisely to achieve greatness.
“They need to keep this momentum up” So, with all this said, where can Netflix go in 2019 and beyond? Their awards season fate will be determined by the Oscars later this month. Looking further, hopefully, they continue to deliver a varied filmography, complete with a combination of big names, new names, genrechallenging projects and a large collection of great films. It is also hoped that they will be working alongside cinemas and challenging the film industry to produce an amazing line-up of big screen entertainment, was well as small screen delight. With such strong competition but undoubtable creative power, Netflix should be able to balance all this to prove that 2018 wasn’t just a one-off.
Netflix’s 2019 Films: Io (Jan 18) Soni (Jan 18) Polar (Jan 25) Velvet Buzzsaw (Feb 1) High Flying Bird (Feb 8) Paddleton (Feb 22) The Dirt (Mar 22) The Highwayman (Mar 29) Murder Mystery (Spring) Otherhood (Spring) The Perfection (Spring)
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TELEVISION
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricktv
Crushing on a Killer: the Inappropriate Response to The Ted Bundy Tapes TV Critic Holly Pittaway explores Netflix's latest problematic fave, and the trend that sees viewers swooning over serial killers Holly Pittaway Television Critic
The reaction to Netflix’s new fourpart documentary, Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes, has been mixed to say the least. The series centres around the life and crimes of one of America’s most infamous psychopaths, from his troubled childhood in the mountainous terrain of Washington State, to his young adult life as a Law student and celebrated campaigner for Nixon’s Republican Party, to his killing spree that enraptured much of the United States between 1974 and 1978. Unique to this show, however, is its narration by the killer himself, whose eerie voice, recorded by journalists Stephen Michaud and Hugh Aynesworth (who also feature in the docu-series), can be heard throughout, at first explaining his innocence, and then, as time wears on, proclaiming his guilt. Predictably, many viewers were disturbed by what they saw and heard, so much so that Netflix even issued a warning urging its users not to watch the show alone; as someone who prides themselves on their ability to remain calm during horror films, I was surprised when one particular moment during Bundy’s confession made me shiver in fear and disgust. But another, less predictable and all-
the-more dangerous, reaction has been stirred by the Ted Bundy Tapes – one of lust and desire. It seems that rather than coming away with an understanding of the severity of the crimes committed by Bundy, who altogether admitted to the murders and sexual
dent’, Michaud says in the beginning of the first episode aptly name, ‘Handsome Devil’. ‘He didn’t look like anybody’s notion of somebody who would tear apart young girls’ – this was a problem then, and it seems, still a problem now.
Netflix
assaults of 36 women (although the figure is widely believed to have been more), a large number of people took nothing from the show other than how good-looking the killer was. The series itself does make a point of Bundy’s attractiveness, saying it was the reason many people gave to show Ted’s innocence; ‘Ted stands out because he was quite an enigma; clean-cut, good-looking, articulate, very intelligent; just a handsome, young, mild-mannered Law stu-
A quick browse of Twitter will throw up hundreds of examples of people ‘thirsting’ over Bundy. The first time I came across this was when I was using the site to gage people’s reaction to the series having just finished watching, but rather than finding articulate reviews, I was shocked to come across a thread in which one female user had stated, ‘I can’t stop thinking about Ted Bundy’, which was shortly followed by another female user who posted, ‘Man crush every
day’ (a tweet which garnered one like). The phenomenon has most likely been exacerbated by the recent trailer drop for the film Extremely Wicked, Shockingly Evil and Vile, a Bundy biopic starring former High School Musical heartthrob, Zac Efron. The implications here are obviously concerning, and with the tone of the trailer reflecting more of a quirky rom-com than a true crime thriller, it’s easy to see why some viewers are developing these feelings.
“Netflix even issued a warning urging its users not to watch the show alone” But another week on Netflix, another inappropriate crush! To me, the reaction to the Ted Bundy Tapes bears a striking similarity to the response to the new Netflix drama You. The protagonist, Joe Goldberg, played by Penn Badgley, is a tricky character, whose tendencies for stalking and murder are sometimes outweighed by his good-looks and fatherly compassion for his young neighbour, Paco, a lethal combination when Twitter also comes into the mix. Thousands upon thousands of
viewers have taken to the website to declare their love for creepy Joe (who *spoiler alert* actually ends up murdering his girlfriend in the show’s finale); ‘Okay but @Penn Badgley was sexy as Dan [from Gossip Girl] but lord Joe is a whole new level’, one said, while another wrote ‘@PennBadgley kidnap me pls’. Thankfully, the actor himself has slammed such ‘thirst’ tweets for their inappropriate nature, and he won’t stop until everyone gets it into their head that his character is a sociopathic murderer who definitely isn’t worth wasting your #mcm on. The fact that a worryingly large amount of people are sexualising serial killers, however, should not take away from the brilliance of the Ted Bundy Tapes. It’s a fantastic docu-series that, in my opinion, does a much better job at capturing and holding audience attention than other true crime shows like Making a Murderer and The Staircase have done in the past. It’s a perfect mix of chilling and tragic, and the narration from Bundy itself is unique to say the least, offering us an up-close glimpse inside the mind of a coldblooded killer. But ultimately, viewer discretion is advised, and we need to remember what and who we are dealing with - it shouldn’t be down to Netflix to have to issue a polite reminder to its users to stop swooning over a killer.
The Evolution of the Animated Series
From Mickey Mouse to Rick and Morty, Amrita Mande looks back at the history of animated TV and asks where it's going next Amrita Mande Television Critic
Animation is one of my favorite mediums of storytelling. It lends itself well to any genre and can make worlds and characters come to life in a way live-action just can’t compare. Unlike traditional shows, they’re not represented by the actors alone, but is very much a team project showcasing the talents of those who often work behind the scenes; the graphic designers, animators and writers. It’s kind of crazy when you think how far animation has come. From the days of tedious handdrawn animation where beloved characters like Mickey Mouse had to sacrifice their fifth finger, to 3D animation, where characters like Elsa, from Disney’s Frozen, have 400,000 strands of hair- four times more than an actual woman has. And the actual content and stories have evolved with the times. Animated series are no longer ‘just for kids’. In many ways, The Simpsons was a trailblazer and revolutionized the medium, using it’s animation and humour to appeal to a wider audi-
ence than ever before, all the while parodying American cultural stereotypes. South Park was ingenious as well, using a robotic style of animation and over-simplified character designs to balance the tone whenever acting as an allegory for a serious social issue. Even kids cartoons are stepping up their game. Simple shows like SpongeBob SquarePants were followed by shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender, the latter of which is often called ‘one of the greatest shows of all time’. To d a y, streaming services and net-
works are flooded with animated shows and many of them are excellent. Very much like artists, the designers and animators often develop their own unique style, to the point where you can tell when the same people have worked on different projects just by glancing at the screen. Writers and animators really get to push the boundaries of what’s been done and translate their v i s i o n onto the
screen. Rick and Morty, when released, became a global cultural phenomenon. Shows like Bojack Horseman stand out, dealing with mental health struggles and substance abuse in a world where half the population is half-animal. The writing is brilliant, the characters feel real, and it definitely has heart, showing that, just because a show is 2D, that doesn’t mean the emotions it elicits are. Of course, like with everything, what really makes the masterpieces stand out are the duds. Now, I haven’t come across an animated show that is completely terrible, but I have seen quite a few that are just ‘watchable’. Similar to the 90’s sitcom boom, the abundance of animated series comes from the fact that they are just so ‘bingeable’. Producers recycle the same old ideas, tropes and plots without ever daring to push creaFox tive boundaries. They
stick to the formula and get a few laughs from the audience, but are ultimately forgettable and unoriginal. They tick the boxes of satire, self-awareness and running gags, but there’s no real thought behind them, making the show seem shallow. Often meta jokes are overused, acting as a shield to protect the creators from valid criticism of their plots and characters.
“Just because a show is 2D, that doesn't mean the emotions it elicits are” The medium is beginning to feel oversaturated, but that could just be because of all the mediocre projects. Animation is an incredibly versatile genre where the only limit is the imagination and allows for such unbridled creativity. Studios need to be willing to take advantage of it and use it to its potential.
TELEVISION
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricktv
Netflix
Review: Sex Education
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Top TV Picks for February
Dirty John Netflix 14th February
Is Netflix's new teen drama living up to our expectations? Eleanor Cross Television Critic
When I first started watching Sex Education, I thought it was going to be another tacky Riverdaleesque teen drama that I simply couldn't commit to watching with deadlines fast approaching. However, my opinion quickly changed by the end of the first episode. Whilst it still has the cheesy elements that are extremely prevalent in most teen TV shows, Sex Education has such an informative underlying message that any young adult should be able to relate to it. Sex Education teaches us that we shouldn’t be ashamed of sex. After all, everyone experiences it. Everyone has embarrass-
ing stories about it. Therefore, everybody should feel that they can ask questions about it. Sex Education doesn’t shy away from these topics; instead, it embraces and runs with them. The show centres around a seventeen-year old boy, Otis, who lives with his sex therapist mother (played by Gillian Anderson). At school, despite having never had sex or been in a relationship himself, Otis uses his mother’s sex advice to advise another student on how to deal with their problems in the bedroom. As a result, Otis and his friend Maeve start up an underground sex clinic for fellow pupils to visit for advice. The conversations cover body confidence, how to get the girl, how to get over someone, and so much more. And I'm sure that most peo-
ple, if not all, have needed some similar advice at some point in their lives. Most notable, in my opinion, is the episode where *spoiler alert* Maeve gets an abortion. I cannot recall a scene in a show for young adults where the procedure is shown in as much detail. From the nurse telling Maeve what to expect to the post-operation care, this show highlights the side of abortion that is usually brushed over. We also see a plethora of relationships and sexualities within the show, all of which are treated completely equally, rather than the norm of heterosexuality being pushed into the limelight. Sex Education also features an amalgamation of British and American culture that is at first confusing. The characters have
clear English accents, but where they live seems to mirror a rural American town. They go to a British Sixth Form, but the boys wear letterman jackets. I’m not entirely sure why this is, but we quickly learn to accept it; after all, there are far more important things to focus on. Will Maeve choose Jackson or Otis, for example? Will Otis fix his own personal problem? And will Eric continue to be one of the most amazing characters on Netflix? Season One left us with a series of different cliff hangers, and I will have no choice but to watch the second season just to see how it all pans out.
Big Mouth Valentine's Special Netflix 14th February
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Schitt's Creek: Simply the Best?
After five seasons, Rebekah Birch thinks that this Netflix comedy is finally getting the attention it deserves Rebekah Birch Television Critic
The Canadian comedy Schitt’s Creek, viewable on Netflix, may be in its fifth year, but it has only recently come to most people’s attention. I discovered Schitt’s Creek about a year ago, when I was desperate for a new comedy to watch - three days later, I’d binged the entire show twice through and introduced it to both of my sisters. But what makes this show so special? From the outside, it looks like a stereotypical fish-out-ofwater story. It follows the onceaffluent Rose family who lose their fortune and are forced to move to Schitt’s Creek, a small town that they bought as a joke. The name is not particularly appealing, and the premise is one everyone has seen before. But this show is unique - it has perfect dialogue, hilarious performances, and much more representation
than you’d expect from a show set in a rural Canadian town. Moira (played by Catherine O'Hara), a former soap star and the family’s matriarch, is undoubtedly the funniest character on the show, if not television in general. From her ridiculous accent to her wall of wigs, she steals every scene she’s in. In the very first episode, when Moira thinks that her earrings have been stolen, she dramatically opens a drawer to look for them, pulls out a lightbulb, and screams - and if this seems ridiculous, that's because it is. But it is also played to perfection. Inexplicably, she sleeps in pyjama waistcoats and consistently wears over-the-top outfits, even if she’s just going to the local diner. Her indescribable accent - the way she pronounces “enchiladas” simply must be heard to be believed - is the icing on the cake of an already-perfect character. Simply put, it’s worth watching Schitt’s Creek for Moira alone.
“It has everything a feel-good comedy should - love, laughter, and kindness” The show also excels when it comes to the Rose children, particularly David (played by creator/ writer Dan Levy). In an early episode, David explains his pansexuality with a simple metaphor - “I like the wine, not the label” - and the show never questions it. Despite being set in a small and rather backwards town, normally associated with closed-mindedness, there is no judgement or prejudice. It was Levy’s decision to not include any homophobia in the show, instead imagining a more perfect world, where there can be LGBTQ+ stories that don’t revolve around discrimination.
He and his love-interest, Patrick, are portrayed as a very happy couple, and nothing about their relationship is different because of their sexualities. In a world where LGBTQ+ characters are still pretty rare, and happy LGBTQ+ characters are virtually non-existent, it is refreshing to see David and Patrick written in this way. They are allowed their romantic moments - like Patrick serenading David with 'Simply the Best' in front of the entire town - and their relationship is perfect in its simplicity. Schitt’s Creek is fast-paced and hilarious, but it also has a good heart. The characters may be spoilt and ridiculous, but you still love them. The show is perfect because it has everything a feel-good comedy should - love, laughter, and kindness.
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Lorena Amazon Prime 15th February
The Umbrella Academy Netflix 15th February
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GAMING
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickgames
Preview: Overwatch League Season 2
Nintendo
Redbrick's Top 5
Gaming Couples
‘Overwatch
Blizzard
15th when we witness the finals rematch and the first stage wraps on the 17th of March. The final stage concludes on the 25th of August before we enter the season
Contenders’ scene, essentially the development leagues f o r Overwatch, along with new coaches and sweet new skins to get. The other huge announcement was the addition of new host stadiums. With all games taking place in New York last year, season 2 will introduce “Homestand weeks” in which Dallas, Atlanta and Los Angeles will host a week each in varying stages. Adding these new home games was
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Chloe + Rachel Amber
Infinite Fall
7 months on and we’re about to do it all over again, this time bigger and better. The first game of season 2, kicking off stage 1 starts on February
described as a “number one thing we’re working on” by commissioner Nate Nanzer during their preview stream and adding this reach and new home games allows physical expansion of the ‘Overwatch League’, despite having to stay in the States for now. One of the less known, but most necessary changes are the changes to the schedule itself. Every team played 40 games in season 1, a brutal and intensive season which led to issues surrounding players’ mental health and fear of burnout. Various players spoke on these issues including Dallas Fuel’s DPS player ‘Effect’, San Francisco Shock’s ‘Babybay’ and NYXL’s class hitscan hotshot ‘Pine’. The most notable was the retirement of Brandon ‘Seagull’ Larned who did cite the mental toll of competitive play as one of his reasons for doing so. An attempt to negate this has been made by reducing the number of games to 28, a decision which reduces the number of games each team plays dramatically, allowing teams to prepare better for matches and hopefully, let teams cope better and prepare better for the demands a full esports season brings.
4 Gregg + Angus
“Season 2 may very well be better” With all this, ‘Overwatch League’ season 2 has a key advantage to build hype: stories. Most sports are fuelled by ambition, athletes with the desire to succeed and with them there are natural stories created. Can the London Spitfire retain their crown with a largely similar setup? Can the New York Excelsior get over a season that they should have won to succeed here? How will the new teams fare in their inaugural season? Can the Shanghai Dragons win a game after their 0-40 season? So many intriguing questions are posed heading into season 2, and there’s only one way to find out. Prepare your antinades, get your superchargers ready and feel that healing beat, the ‘Overwatch League’ is on fire, and season 2 is shaping up to be a cracker.
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Valve
Even with Blizzard’s recent woes with the Diablo and Heroes of the Storm franchises, one thing that never seems to die, like heroes themselves, is Overwatch, and there are very few moments in gaming that were as big in 2018 as the Grand Finals of season 1 of the ‘Overwatch League’. In a thrilling 3-1 final with so many awesome moments such as the infamous Orisa-halt into Hanzo-dragonstrike combo, Profit’s insane DPS play winning him the finals MVP and more Poko-bombs than fans confused by DJ Khaled being there, the London Spitfire conquered the Philadelphia Fusion to write their names into esports history. The Finals felt like a true esports spectacle, with the Twitch broadcast peaking at 350,000 concurrent viewers and a prime-time broadcast on ESPN2 meaning a sold-out Barclays Centre had pulled out all the stops. Everything from the staging, t h e post-match confetti and celebrations and very professionally put together broadcast crew all combined to create a final that felt ‘Grand’ in every sense of the word. Even though the result was one which most had predicted, the Spitfire and the Fusion put together a memorable, well fought final to cap off a successful first season that showed the true potential Overwatch potentially has as a mainstream esport. As someone who has a limited exposure to esports, watching the finals was such a great experience.
playoffs, giving us just over 6 months of OWL goodness to consume. And I have a hopeful suspicion that season 2 may very well be better than last year. The stage format, where 4 stages take place over a season, each with their own finals (kind of a mini-league and mini-playoffs) did allow the league to be able to adapt to the ever-changing metagame and balance Overwatch has, which meant each stage last year changed the teams who were best equipped, allowing the season to never really settle. Whilst the top teams like the Spitfire, New York Excelsior and Los Angeles Valiant were always heading to the playoffs, it shook things up for teams on the edge of the playoffs like the Seoul Dynasty and Houston Outlaws. Whilst this stage system has been maintained, some key alterations have been made to freshen up season 2. The most advertised of these is the 8 new teams joining the league, such as the fully European Paris Eternal, the pretty-in-pink Hangzhou Spark and new Canadian representation for the Toronto Defiant. All these teams added their players from the
Me + Companion Cube
Blizzard
Gaming Writer @AlexGreen9898
“One thing that never seems to die... Overwatch”
2 Tracer + Emily
1
Wario + Waluigi
Blizzard
Nintendo
Alex Green
Deck Nine
Will Blizzard’s flagship shooter live up to competitive expectations?
GAMING
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickgames
Chucklefish
27
Gaming at a Glance Nintendo anounce Dr Mario World Nintendo have announced a brand new mobile application based off one of their most recognisable puzzle games – Dr. Mario World. Announced alongside the company’s latest earnings reports, the title is described as an ‘action puzzle game’ and is due to release in early summer. The game is freeto-play and is available for both iOS and Android devices. Given their recent exploits into the mobile market, one may imagine Dr. Mario World will take on a Candy Crush model, with a number of challenge levels that must be completed in unique and specific ways.
Review: Wargroove Gaming Editor James Law boogies into the bright and beautiful world of Wargroove – but does it live up to lofty expectations? James Law
Gaming Editor @JamesMacLaw
I initially thought I’d try to be the first reviewer to talk about Chucklefish’s new strategy outing Wargroove without mentioning its spiritual predecessor, Intelligent Systems’ Advance Wars series. It turns out the two games are even less separable than you’d think, Turn-based strategy has never felt so fresh, and it’s been a while since I’ve had my appetite whetted for this kind of brain-teasing action. I bloody love the calculated thrill of countering my enemies’ threats and developing map control with the huge variety of units available. The gameplay, at its core, is derived from the Advance Wars games of old, but the small changes the developers have made to mechanics lead to a game that somehow manages to solve many of Wars’ problems, but retains the pick-up-and-play accessibility and charm that made me and so many others fall in love with the original series. If you’re in the same boat as me and were just excited to get stuck back into a similar experience after so many years, then there’s no need to read on. Just buy the game. You’ll love it. If you’re interested in how Wargroove manages to differentiate itself from others like it, then read on. The most obvious change is the addition of commanders. They’re playable units now, rather than just influencing the tide of battle from above with bonuses to certain unit types or weather conditions. Absolute powerhouses, they act as a trump card in battle. If your commander is killed, you lose. This simple change brings in so many tactical changes. Do you go in all guns blazing with your commander, crushing all enemies in your path? Maybe, but you’re at a big risk of fire being focused on your leader, weakening your position or even losing the whole battle. Or, you could hang back, allowing your grunts to take a
beating for you, only coming into the battle once your Groove is charged. These special abilities give commanding units a powerful one-off ability that can change the tide of battle in a single turn. Similar to CO powers in the Advance Wars series, each commander has a unique Groove that reflects their personality. Sedge, the savage cannibalistic beast, finishes off injured foes, and is able to keep moving if he kills an enemy, leading to mountains of corpses in his wake if the situation is right. Caesar, the extremely adorably animated dog commander, inspires his troops to take a second move, because he’s just such a majestic good boy. The commanders representing both a tactical advantage and a win condition is a small aspect that makes a huge positive difference to the way battles are Chucklefish fought. Another change from the Wars series was the way map control is gained. Capturing villages and barracks still have a similar impact on the game, in that they generate funds for you to recruit units, but capturing them is entirely different. Unowned villages can be taken immediately by any unit, and the village’s health is set at half of the capturing unit’s. So if a swordsman with 40% health captures a village, the village will be at 20%. Then, enemies attacking will have to damage the village and destroy it before capturing it themselves, in a manner closer to
that of the Civilization series. This mitigates a huge frustration many had when playing turn-based strategy games, as in Advance Wars, units capturing buildings would take more time to gain control when they were at lower health. This essentially puts units
completely out of action when they’re working on capturing, slowing the game down massively and reducing the tactical value of these units. It’s far smoother, in my opinion, for the capturing to be done instantly, and the challenge being to defend the village until its health regenerates, rather than just waiting around for your weakened infantry unit to whittle it down. Further deepening the strategic elements at play, there’s a ‘critical hit’ system for each unit, where they do extra damage depending on unit placement. The
dog units deal extra damage when there’s another dog next to the enemy, like they’re being mauled by a pack. The spearmen do additional damage when they have a fellow spearman backing them up. Each type of unit has special conditions that can be met to maximise damage, which means players are forced to weigh up advantages and disadvantages of each movement you make. The aesthetics of Wargroove are the most pleasing I’ve seen in a while. Character design is beautifully done, from the pixel art sprites to the larger images in promotional material, a consistent theme persists between them. Starbound fans will appreciate the inclusion of the Floran people as a playable faction, and each team brings a unique look and feel to the armies. Each commander has a personality that’s brought through with the stunning animations and sparing-yet-effective voice acting, working off of very succinct and well-crafted writing. Wargroove takes place in such a pretty, enjoyable world, and every little touch of polish brings it alive. The developers haven’t forgotten the community aspect, though. Tools to make your own maps, battles and campaigns exist, and they can be shared with the rest of the world, with rating tools for players to share the best of the bunch. This is an exciting aspect of a game like this, as giving players the same tools as the developers had brings a whole new aspect of longevity to Wargroove. When playing, I do encounter some minor issues. Sometimes, during lengthy conflicts, turns last a bit too long, with slow cutscenes breaking up the flow of battle. These little things are overshadowed by the whole polish of the entire experience though. It’s everything I hoped it would be having anticipated the release for a while now. Wargroove does not disappoint. The strategy game I’ve been waiting for, and I’ll be enjoying it for a while yet.
Image from Nintendo. Piranha Plant shoots into the Smash roster The long-awaited launch of Super Smash Bros. Ultimate’s newest character has finally come. Released as an early-purchase bonus and as downloadable content, Piranha Plant says aloe to the rest of the fighters. Thistle be an interesting time for players, who will need to adjust their playstyle and learn the way this new character plays. There is one thing the community does agree on though: Piranha Plant is pretty fly for a cacti. Metro Exodus to release on Epic Store In an exclusive deal with Epic, THQ’s blockbuster is set to release on Epic Games Store rather than Steam in a controversial decision that has divided the gaming community. All pre-ordered copies of the game on Steam will be fulfilled, but since the announcement all future purchases can only be made through Epic. Hearthstone reveals nerfs to popular cards Blizzard Entertainment have unveiled a number of cards that will be receiving power level changes. Cards include Equality, Hunter’s Mark, Cold Blood, and Flametongue Totem, which are all part of the Basic and Classic card sets - the ones most accessible to Hearthstone newcomers. The other card is Lesser Emerald Spellstone, which players have said will bring about a welcome change to the metagame until the next expansion releases in April.
FOOD&DRINK
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Friday 8th February 2019
@redbrickfood
The Inside Scoop Food&Drink's Romana Essop's menu for eating your feelings this February Romana Essop Food&Drink Writer
Valentine’s Day may have become controversial for those who are single and taken alike, but at least one associated food remains a safe haven for us all: ice cream. Whether you’re planning a solo feast, a celebration of ‘palentine’s day’, or a stay-at-home date, ice cream serves as the perfect snack. But regardless of our relationship status, Valentine’s is an excellent opportunity to remember to love yourself, and what better way to do it than to forget that calorie counting, grab a spoon and dig in to these mouth-watering frozen treats: Wall’s Vanilla Soft Scoop: A simple and humble choice which doesn’t break the bank but still succeeds in returning us to our childhood roots. This nostalgic favourite is also helpfully available in massive 1.8 litre tubs - for sharing or self-indulging. Ben and Jerry’s Non-Dairy Chocolate Fudge Brownie: In keeping with the theme of inclusivity this Valentine’s, Ben and Jerry’s provide a chocolate ice cream which is suitable for lactose intolerants and vegans alike. McFlurry: Perhaps an unusual choice, but an undoubtable fan-favourite. Forget the fancy variations; the classic dairy milk works for every occasion. What’s more, it’s the perfect excuse to get a McDonald’s since McFlurrys are free with a student card when you buy a meal. Vienetta Mint Ice Cream Dessert: Indeed, this particular ice cream may require a knife as well as a spoon, but the extra washing up is definitely worth it. Unfortunately, in a world of tubbed ice cream, Vienetta often gets forgotten, so perhaps it is time it gets the attention it deserves. Haagen Dazs Strawberry Cheesecake: Consider this an indulgent investment into your personal happiness. A little pricey, yes, but as the perfect accompaniment to a classic rom-com, what better time to treat yourself?
Ample Hills
A Budget Way to Valendine Food&Drink Writer Beth Sadler explains how to celebrate Valentine's Day in Birmingham on a student budget this February Beth Sadler
Food&Drink Writer
Christmas can be expensive, and when the start of the new year comes around many students are waiting in anticipation for the January loan to heal some of the festive wounds. The idea of another holiday (and therefore more expense) can be unappealing, making Valentine’s seem like more of a chore than anything else. But, whether it be Valentine’s or ‘palentines’, it is always important to make time to appreciate the people in your life that you value. When a bunch of red roses or a box of Thornton’s chocolates seems a little too cliché, it can be difficult to find a way of celebrating on a student loan. However, if the way to the heart is through the stomach, then there are plenty of ways to impress a loved one within the confines of a tight budget. With a little creativity (or a trip to your local Wetherspoon’s), you will see that Valentine’s can be easy, exciting and definitely not expensive. Eating Out: As students, we are all too familiar with the bargain deals and extremely cheap prices that you can find in any Wetherspoon’s across the nation. You will be
delighted to know that Valentine’s is no exception, as they bring back a two-course menu (including drinks, mains and desserts) priced at £20 for two. Even if you fancy a treat and upgrade to Prosecco, it will still only cost you £5 more, making it well and truly student friendly. But, despite the temptingly low cost, Wetherspoon’s does not have the
wow factor, and could be a better option for friends wanting to celebrate the day without splashing the cash. If you are looking to impress and want to use this opportunity to get out of Selly Oak for the evening, Prezzo in
friend a bottle of bubbly, or even bake your house a batch of brownies: sometimes the little things count for more. A home cooked dinner of roasted salmon followed by chocolate fondant is both aphrodisiac and delicious, allowing you to show of your culinary skills whilst remaining firmly within budget. Whilst you might not be able to dish up oysters, BBC Good Food has a Valentine’s section dedicated to aphrodisiac recipes 1ZOOM that are sure to set you up for an evening of amour. However, if the idea of cooking a three-course meal makes you tremble with fear, Marks and Spencer are pulling through with a dine-in deal that is too good to miss. For £20 you can buy a starter, main, side, dessert, box of chocolates and a bottle of fizz. With delicious dishes such as seabass or steak, this eatin option has something for all, even including a vegan option. This is definitely a possibility for those couples who want to enjoy the comfort of their own home whilst also indulging in some wonderful food. With this is mind, it's easy to Eating In: Although a meal out is a rarity see that Valentine’s doesn't have amongst students, sometimes the to break the bank. Whether it is best way to show how much you Spoon’s, Marks and Spencer, or care is through a little thought and simply in your own kitchen: you'll creativity. Bring your boyfriend be able to find a Valentine’s date breakfast in bed, buy your girl- that suits you and your budget. Harborne offers a three course Valentine’s Set Menu that comes to £19.95 a head. Although it might not be as cost effective as Spoon’s, the environment is a little more romantic, whilst the menu is still extremely good value. With options like sea bass, risotto, and king prawn spaghetti, this is a lovely treat for a loved one who deserves it.
Easy as Pie: Valentine’s Gifts
Food&Drink Editor Emily Calder helps you avoid the last minute panic of presents with a handy guide to food & drink gifting Emily Calder Food&Drink Editor
As one of the most commercialised celebrations in the worldapproaches, you may be scratching your head (or your wallet) as to how to woo your loved one without harming your pocket. As much as this holiday is now laden with expectation and pressure, it does not have to be this way – especially on a student budget! Chocolate: Splashing Out: If you can afford to spend a bit more this February, why not pop to Hotel Chocolat in The Bullring? For £9 you can nab a ‘Chocolate Slab for Two’, the perfect gift to share, flavoured with caramel, milk chocolate and strawberry. Or, if you really want to treat someone, they have plenty of more pricey, but lovely, boxes of chocolates on offer. A Bargain: If you want to treat someone in your life without slipping into your overdraft, you may be best popping to your local supermarket to buy a cheaper box of chocolates. The Sainsbury’s, Tesco and Aldi in Selly Oak all offer brands such as Cadbury’s or Lindt boxes for £2-6 – and you
really cannot go wrong with a box of Heroes! Dietary Alternative: For the vegan, gluten-free or non-dairy person in your life, the famous brand Moo-Free are offering a ‘Love Pouch.’ Alongside other seasonal free-from chocolates such as Easter Eggs and Advent Calendars, this collection comes in Valentine’s-Themed packaging for £6.99 on Amazon, and gives you four of Moo-Free’s most famous flavours. If your head is in a twirl over how to cater to a dietary requirement, be a smartie and check Moo-Free out! Sweet: Splashing Out: Ice cream is perfect for any day – whether you’re having a date night, a ‘palentine’s’ day with friends, or a night in for one, Ben and Jerry’s newest flavour will be ready to cool you down this month. The new Valentine’s themed flavour ‘Topped Love’ will inevitably give you the sugar rush you are craving - with brown sugar ice cream, pink salted caramel cups, and a cookie swirl. It is a bit more on the expensive side – at £5.49 for a 500ml tub – but the company are donating some proceeds to Refugee
Action, so you can improve someone else’s life whilst filling your stomach with this new flavour. A Bargain: For a sickly sweet gift, look no further than Krispy Kreme’s three new Valentine’s flavours. This year you have the delicious options of a ‘Nutty Chocolatta Heart’ (filled with Nutella), a fruity ‘Raspberry Romance’, or a strawberry flavoured ‘Smiley Heart’. You can grab these exclusive, and delicious looking, treats for £2.20 each or £6 for a pack of three. You doughnut want to miss this opportunity! Dietary Alternative: For a nostalgic Valentine’s classic that is also vegan-friendly, your best bet is a tube of Love Hearts Sweets – and for just £1 in Tesco and Sainsbury’s, both your vegan Valentine and your bank account will be head over heels for you. Savoury: Splashing Out: For a sophisticated twist on a student delicacy, you may be interested in the newest Heinz creation of ‘Caviar Ketchup’. This Valentine’s special has been released to celebrate the 150th Birthday of Heinz, but whilst this delicacy is not necessarily expensive, it is hard to come
by; only 150 jars exist in the UK, and you will have to enter a Facebook competition to get your hands on one. A Bargain: For something that is easy to grab and a bit different, you may wish to turn your attention to Tyrell’s newest flavour of ‘Aphrodisiac’ crisps. This new ‘honey and chilli’ flavour is supposedly full of aphrodisiac properties, which have a provocative effect on the body to heat up any date. Whether you will feel particularly sexy having eaten a large bag of crisps is your call. Dietary Alternative: Valentine’s Day may be the perfect time to treat your lactose-intolerant lover to a delicacy they tend to miss out on – a cheese board. A quick look on the famous ‘The Vegan Kind’ website will offer you various flavours of ‘Tyne Chease’ Blocks, which are also vegan friendly! If you want to treat someone really ‘grate’ this February, this could be the gift for them Remember whilst grabbing presents this February, to keep in mind that no matter your gifts, the most important thing is that someone knows that you care.
FOOD&DRINK
Friday 8th February 2019
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@redbrickfood
Unpacking the Planetary Diet
Food&Drink Writer Izzy Gipps tries the diet that might just save the planet Izzy Gipps Food&Drink Writer
After all the food fads and magical avocados, you will, as ever, be a little disappointed that the new diet which is sweeping the nation and the disastrous effects of climate change away, is also sweeping meat feast pizzas and burgers into the bin. The price of preventing 11 million premature deaths per year, not including the lives of trees, animal and plant species, is to cut dairy, sugar and red meat radically. The orangutans will be thanking you to cut red meat intake by 80%. But is the pleasure all yours?
“After witnessing a housemate recently crash and burn at Veganuary at the hands of Yazoo, I believed a diet that did not discriminate food groups would be more managable” You can thank the EAT-Lancet Commission, the first ever to consider our mother earth’s dietary requirements. Whilst the cows roam free and Nando’s faces a menu revamp, we need to double our nut, fruit, vegetable and legume intake. January gym go-getters, your daily chicken staple is at risk of becoming a weekly treat. Is
reducing risk of sugar and saturated fat related death, and minimising climate change effects down to a third of their current size, as easy as it is in theory? An average daily intake of 2500 calories, recommended for men/ 2000 calories, recommended for women would consist of: 7g/ 5.6 of red meat and pork – one pigs in blanket 29g/ 23.2 of poultry – KFC popcorn chicken contains 24g protein, as a loop hole 28g/ 22.4 of fish – roughly 2 king prawns 250g/ 200g dairy – one glass of milk 1.5/ 1 Eggs per week 500g/ 400g of fruit and vegetables 125g/100g of legumes, peanuts, tree nuts or soy 52g/ 41.6g fats As a student who prioritises wine over chicken fillets in my Aldi shop, I assumed this diet
would be easy. After witnessing a housemate recently crash and burn at Veganuary at the hands of Yazoo, I believed a diet which did not discriminate food groups would be more manageable.
“The price of preventing 11 million premature deaths per year, not including the lives of trees, animal and plant species is to cut dairy, sugar and red meat radically.”
Most mornings breakfast consisted of a cinnamon and raisin bagel (50g out of 16% carbs/ around 127g), topped with crunchy peanut butter (10g) and a banana (100g). I saved my egg allowance for the weekend and a smoothie for those 9ams.
Best Health Canada
Mama Earth
Lunch consisted of a menu of either beans (100g) on toast (50g and 5g butter), topped with grated cheese (25g); leftover veg stir-fry ( 62.5g of egg noodles, 200g of green veg); sweet jacket potato (114g), beans (100g) and cheese (25g); Peanut (10) curry with sweet potato (62) and kale (50g); chicken popsters (100g- up to 162.4 over a week) and mayo (20g); butternut squash (42.5g) burrito (10g kale, 50g rice, 25g wrap). Dinner was mostly the fresh version of whatever I had for lunch the following day; stir-fry, sweet potato curry, butternut squash red Thai curry, green Thai curry (200g veg, 90g rice) and Cauliflower
“It was very accessible as a diet with only a necessary strain on my self control for second dinners and snacks” (200g), broccoli (300g), onion (30g) cheese bake (125g). I will admit, because honesty is the best policy when it comes to food (I’m looking at you, Tesco’s mincemeat), that it was impossible to stick to simply one plate of sushi at YO! Sushi, and I cannot be held accountable for the Pit Stop mozzarella sticks and chicken dippers. This aside, the main struggle was controlling my carb intake. Keeping this to two out of three meals a day was challenging, whilst I had to replace my bedtime porridge with cucumber. Although unsatisfying stomachwise, it was satisfying for the conscience. Overall, it was very accessible as a diet with only a necessary strain on my self-control for second dinners and snacks; with the diet being about 4% sugar I had to replace my chunky KitKat with two custard creams. I could, if I made better choices, had satisfied this craving easily with fruit, which I did not eat enough of. If the selfimprovement I would feel as a person if I followed this diet is the same outcome for our planet, then I completely agree on its effectiveness.
Plant Based Protein: Is It Enough? Food&Drink's Jamie Cheung addresses the million-dollar protein debate Jamie Cheung Food&Drink Writer
The myth surrounding vegans and their lack of available protein is about to be debunked. As a vegan of almost two years, I know as well as anyone, how little faith some meat eaters have in the nutritional strength of a plant based diet. And so in the midst of the most successful ‘Veganuary’ to date, it seems only appropriate that I address the most asked question that every vegan dreads to hear: ‘how do you get any protein?’
“Sourcing protein is neither a top priority or indeed difficult” It is commonly acknowledged that the only feasible way someone might die from a protein defi-
ciency would be due to an insuffi- meal planning approach thanks to cient number of calories in their the introduction and rapidly diet. According to Viva Health, increasing quality of meat replace‘you practically have to be ment products. A British starving to be proteinclassic: Bangers and deficient’ and this is Mash with a side of not an uncommon peas, can just as opinion among easily be recreat“The vegan health profesed with Linda version [of the sionals. It is McCartney’s nonetheless Ve g e t a r i a n Gregg's sausage true that those (also vegan) roll] contains 12 following a sausages in plant based the place of grams of protein, in lifestyle may the original comparison with have to think animal based more conversion. In fact, the pork version's sciously about on closer inspec9.1 grams” their sources of tion of the nutriprotein. Just like tional breakdown when assembling a on the Linda traditional meal in fitMcCartney Foods webting with an omnivorous diet, site, I discovered that the one would consider a source of vegan alternative contains 6.2 per protein (typically meat/fish/dairy), 100 grams more protein than pork a form of carbohydrate be that sausages. bread, rice, pasta etc, and more On the topic of sausages, there often than not, a portion of vegeta- has been uproar across social bles. media regarding one sausage in Becoming vegan doesn’t particular recently. Gregg’s Bakery require any change at all to this has trialled a vegan version of
their infamous sausage roll and it has been a roaring success, much to the dismay of breakfast TV personality Piers Morgan who appears to despise anything plant based. What is ironic is that the vegan version contains 12 grams of protein, in comparison with the pork version’s 9.1 grams. It is obvious then, that sourcing protein is neither a top priority or indeed difficult when transitioning into a plant based lifestyle. With the popularity of veganism ever on the rise, meat replacements as well as plant based milks and cheeses are becoming more and more accessible at affordable prices. It’s also worth considering the protein content of more natural, less processed foods. Beans such
as lentils and kidney beans are an easy and cheap way to add a boost of protein into your meal, as is a sprinkle of chia or sesame seeds on top. By switching to brown rice instead of white rice you can up the protein levels further as well as choosing more protein-rich vegetables such as sweetcorn and broccoli. The options are endless and the information is just a google search away, so do not let the protein question slow you down in the transition to a healthier, more sustainable way of living.
Photo: Gregg's vegan sausage roll
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TRAVEL
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricktravel
A Student’s Guide To: Madrid Charlie Avery Travel Writer
The sun warms my back as I cross Madrid's Plaza de Lavapiés. While the square is filled, principally, with West Africans and Latin Americans, the scene nonetheless feels typically Spanish; young blokes lounge on the concrete street furniture encircling a melee of children, engaged in a furiously-paced game of football. Coming from a multi-racial, football-loving society, it is not so much the sight which intrigues me, but the sound, even the smell. The air is different, tangier, lighter and more still than London or Birmingham, thick only with the sound of chattering voices. The pace of their conversations is furious, words fired out like verbal bullets, as if in a hurry to reach the end of each sentence. Yet people merely saunter along the sun-drenched cobbles, the speed of dialogue amusingly juxtaposed against the generally casual demeanour of the Madrileños.
components of university life, comparing them to those of the mighty Birmingham. Nightlife Like any big city, Madrid boasts a wide range of venues with varying size, music and, of course, quality. From tiny, oneroom dance bars in amongst the flats of residential tower blocks, to the more familiar warehouse raves, I've found myself in a variety of strange locations. By far the strangest so far has been Boite, an inner-city gay club pulsating with men in tight black t-shirts, exquisitely-dressed drag queens and, of course, several gentlemen in complete gimp suits, all cheerily mingling with one another. The venue blasts a mix of synthetic house and sickly-sweet chart anthems that will get even the most cynical of us belting out a bit of Rihanna on the dance floor. Being a capital city, the cost of drinks in most clubs is certainly enough to get the old heart going, but we're still talking roughly half of what you would be paying in London for at least double the
passing through Fabrik as well as its myriad of underground venues. However, it wasn't until mid-November that I finally sniffed out somewhere booming with the drum & bass beats I had craved to hear. At last I found what I had been tracking, like an urban Bear Grylls, the tantalising sounds carry me through the door of Sala Republik revealing a dance floor of about nine people... Spain's jungle is far from massive. University I could honestly write a whole piece about the university alone, my experience has been that bizarre. Compared to Birmingham, the organisation is, at times, hilariously minimal. For example, the seemingly simple task of assigning classes to classrooms without clashes proved to be something of an insoluble conundrum at the start of the year. Entire classes walking around the faculty building searching for professors, like an odd game of hide and seek, was a regularity. As was the bewildered look on the faces of the poor staff in the admin office
Angela Ojeda Heyper
Zigzagging through the crowds at a relative sprint, one aspect above all marks the difference between the Spanish capital and my own. While London’s diversity has come to define its culture, here, proud Spanish cultural traditions of food, music and social life stand shoulder to shoulder with urban cosmopolitanism. Although similar in many ways, student life in Madrid certainly feels a long way from home. As perhaps demonstrated by that conspicuously middle-class introduction, I must first acknowledge the enormous privilege which has allowed me to come here, snatching the last bit of free money from the EU's wonderful Erasmus programme as HMS Great Britain slowly sinks beneath the unforgiving waters of globalisation. However inevitable to some extent, I promise that I don't intend for this to be a self-indulgent litany of my 'gap-yah' interactions with European culture, but at least an unnecessarily verbose guide for people considering studying in Spain. I have divided up some of, what I consider to be, the key
alcohol. Of course, in shops, tinnies truly won't cost you much more than water but whatever savings you make are normally offset by eye-watering entry costs.
“Spanish cultural traditions of food, music and social life stand shoulder to shoulder with urban cosmopolitanism” To find somewhere more original and escape the trap of commercial house and monotonous reggaeton requires a bit of local knowledge. Otherwise it can be too easy to get drawn in by the warm lights and overwhelming popularity of the city's megaclubs like Kapital and Barceló. Madrid's techno scene is also very impressive, with renowned DJs from across Europe and Latin America
when I asked where my lesson had been moved to. The building itself bears a somewhat unsettling resemblance (both inside and out) to the prison from which Michael Schofield escaped all those years ago. Perhaps its most confusing aspect is the fact that the faculty's exterior walls remain (relatively) clean while the interior seems to be one huge canvas for a generation of graffiti artists. The toilets and corridors boast an exhibition of protest 'art', spanning the political spectrum from 'Anarchy will prevail' to 'Hitler did nothing wrong' – a very confusing reflection of my fellow students. As a person who finds it nearly impossible to avoid being late, I have benefited hugely from the relaxed nature of the Spanish timetable, in which 'on time' is merely a personal interpretation. Fifteen minutes late for class in my second week, I was slightly nervous until, out the corner of my eye, I glimpsed my lecturer miles behind me in the queue for the bus. The only intense part of the whole experience has been the classes themselves. If you think it's hard to listen to a two-hour lecture on domestic agricultural
Gilda Martini
policy, doing so in Spanish is a real brain-drainer let me tell you. Food Madrid is different to most British cities in that there is an abundance of relatively affordable housing in and around the centre. This means I've been able to rent a room, essentially in what would be Madrid's borough of Westminster (less than ten minutes from the Spanish Royal Palace) for the same price as my room in the equally exotic Selly Oak. Sure, the area is beautiful but above all it is incredibly convenient, dangerously so at times. Having a 24-hour McDonald's within walking distance from your house is both a blessing and a curse: a blessing when stumbling home after a night out and a curse when finding chips under your pillow the following morning. Beyond the golden arches there is a world of opportunity within walking distance, and I'm not just talking about Burger King... Tapas bars, bursting with the heady aromas of fish, garlic and fried batter, are the perfect location for a casual meal and a drink (which, just like Selly Oak, is acceptable at all hours of the day), accompanied by limitless bowls of miscellaneous nuts. However, as I initially said, the Spanish establishments must jostle for space (and customers) with those from around the world: Chinese, Indian, North African and, above all, Latin American contenders. The enormous Latin American community in Madrid has left a considerable, and delicious, mark
on the city's food scene, dominated, of course, by the Mexicans, but closely followed by the Colombians and Venezuelans. There is a mixture of chains like Arepa Olé, mostly serving variations of tortilla with beautifully seasoned meat and frijole beans, and smaller independently-run restaurants boasting their own home-made recipes. If you're in the market for flavour and, dare I say it, hospitality, the Latin Americans have got you covered, even more so than their Spanish counterparts.
“From tiny, oneroom dance bars in amongst the flats of residential tower blocks, to the more familiar warehouse raves, I've found myself in a variety of strange locations” While it’s never easy adapting to a new city, culture or language, I have grown to love this city and its people. Over the past two years, Birmingham has come to be my second home and Madrid is rapidly becoming my third.
Juan Mejuto
TRAVEL
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricktravel
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My Favourite Place: Japan Jacky Sy Travel Writer
With the opportunity for study and travel, as well as a five-year Japanese learning experience, Japan has to be one of my favorite places in the world. The Japanese are well-known for their warm hospitality. The first time I travelled to Kyoto, an old man offered to walk me for fifteen minutes to my hotel when he was meant to be going home, in the complete opposite direction. I will never forget how decent and helpful the local Japanese are, not to mention how enthusiastic the local students are when it comes to sharing every experience with foreign students. You really get an understanding for how much they treasure their traditional culture. The idea of consistency is considered an extremely impressive personality trait in Japan. I went to try the Fire Ramen restaurant ‘Menbakaichidai’ in Kyoto. Here, you are subject to
great food, service and even a fire performance, but only if you are willing to wait for more than 2 hours, given that they only serve 8 customers at a time. The chef apologized for the late service, but then explained that consistency and maintaining a good service quality within a small number of customers is very important in Japan. According to him, they put more emphasis on the service, rather than commercial efficiency. Tourism is a big industry, bringing huge profit to every country. Most governments deliberately establish the tourist spots, allowing you to experience their culture but not guaranteeing real-life experience. Japan is a different case. If you have the chance to visit Japan, Shrines must be listed as the top-ranked priority. They are something more than simply tourist spots. Shinto is the biggest religion in Japan, and Shrines are where believers pray to their God regularly. The residents set up the
booths and shops selling traditional food and products and a small community is established. Rather than just being a tourist spot, you are able to fully experience the culture – making you not only a traveler, but a local Japanese, even if it is just for a day or two!
“Shinto is the biggest religion in Japan, and Shrines are where believers pray to their God regularly” Under the era of globalization, striking a balance between the preservation of tradition and the adaption to foreign culture becomes a headache. The Japanese have a good mastery on this balance. In
Japanese, they have two separate writing systems: ‘hiragana’ and ‘katakana.’ The former, along with the Chinese writing system, is used as traditional expression while the latter is used as foreign or modern expression. For example, rice is in ‘hiragana’ while chocolate is in ‘katakana.’ As a result, the Japanese are able to learn local traditions whilst accepting foreign culture in the meantime. Apart from language, their living style and culture also illustrates their inclusive personalities. In a normal house there is a living room, dining room, kitchen, toilet as well as the bedroom. Washitsu still exists in most of the Japanese houses, even though they adapted the modern house style. The room consists of several tatami and antique displays. It serves as a multipurpose room, be it daily conversation between family members or entertaining guests, from close friends and relatives. However, it is reductive to hold the belief that tradition is
always something old-fashioned. I participated in the Hakata Gion Yamakasa festival in Fukuoka; it is full of competition, energy and spirit. It is a ritual celebration originating from the Buddhist priest defeating a plague by spreading water in the village. One of the highlights is the kazariyama float. Each represents a traditional family name in the region. The family enters it for a float racing competition every year. On one side, the floats are full of legendary characters and God’s image. One the other side, they are unexpectedly full of amine characters which illustrates the Japanese daily life and culture. One would be amazed by their creativity, presenting tradition in an innovative way. Character, community and culture are just a few of the many reasons why Japan is one of the greatest cities in the world. The longer you immerse yourself in Japanese culture, the more you will discover about this fascinating country.
Wintery Weekends in Europe Hannah Lay Travel Writer
Reading Week will soon be upon us and it is the perfect time to explore Europe. I have been lucky to visit what I consider to be some of Europe’s most beautiful cities, and these two destinations that should be at the top of your winter travel wish-list. Prague Prague has become a cult favourite for young travellers during the summer months; it is easily accessible and boasts warm average temperatures. However, I think the charm of Prague extends well beyond the summer heat. Before I went to Prague, I had read that it is renowned for cheap beer and I was definitely not disappointed! This is unsurprising considering the country’s reputation as the biggest beer drinkers. Prague hosts numerous independent breweries and restaurants which offer a wealth of options if you fancy trying some of the local flavours.
Food in Prague is also great, with a sit-down meal in a restaurant costing less than £10 on average and the Czech staple of meat, sauce and dumplings providing warmth in the cold city temperatures. I cannot write about Prague without mentioning Trdelnik. Trdelnik are spiral doughnut cones filled with soft serve ice cream. They’re originally from Hungary but can be found sold by street vendors across Prague. They are delicious and given their strong presence across the city I felt it would have been criminal to leave without having one! As well as food, Prague boasts a whole host of activities. Charles Bridge and Prague Castle are two must-see sights of the city and neither disappoint. The bridge can get extremely busy with tourists, but it is still well worth walking along. There are metro stations near to the Prague Castle, but we walked up from Charles Bridge which I recommend because it allows you to take in more of the city. Also, the castle is set on a hill so once we reached the top, we were greeted with amazing views over the city. A huge positive is
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the castle offers student discount on admission, making it easily affordable. Although the big sites are very impressive, the random streets are the most charming. Colourful baroque buildings line the streets; you cannot help but be in awe of the city’s beauty. The air of winter makes this even more atmospheric with the colourful buildings breaking through the darker weather. My advice is to keep looking up – the buildings are intricate all the way from the ground to the top and you will miss out if you don’t! Alongside good food, drink and attractions, Prague plays host to numerous museums. I really recommend the Museum of Communism. A communist museum may sound a bit heavy, but it is actually incredibly captivating and educational. Prague was heavily influenced by communist rule and what I learnt at the museum made me appreciate the city in a whole new light. Vienna Bordering the Czech Republic is Austria, another central European country with an array of lovely cities. Vienna, the country’s capital is charming and a true winter gem. It gets quite chilly during the winter months, but wrap up warm and you will be able to appreciate the vast amount Vienna has to offer. Like Prague, Vienna’s beauty stems from its architecture. The city is home to St Stephen’s Cathedral, a magnificent gothic cathedral located in the heart of Vienna. The numerous imperial palaces and grand buildings are also extremely impressive and show elements of the city’s rich cultural history. As well as beautiful buildings, Vienna is the ideal city for fine art and classical music enthusiasts. The city has a musical legacy shaped by the likes of Mozart and
Max Pixel
Beethoven, and there are numerous concerts on each evening across Vienna playing classic pieces from such composers. As well as music, Vienna has been shaped by an array of artists. A museum I would thoroughly recommend is the Belvedere Palace. The palace hosts the world’s largest Gustav Klimt collection and a large array of Austrian art from the Middle Ages right up to present day. The museum offers discounted admission for students and it would be easy to spend a whole day here if you have ample time. Even if art is not your thing, the palace itself is well worth a visit; it is a spectacular building set in expansive grounds. It also boasts stunning views of the city below. If you want something slightly more exciting than high culture, Wiener Riesenrad is for you. It is a giant ferris wheel dating back to 1897 that has become an integral part of the Viennese sky line. The wheel is located within a fairground that comprises other rides and food stalls. The park itself is free to enter, you just have
to pay to go on the individual rides. Whilst it may not scream Vienna, the wheel is a bit of a tourist staple for those visiting the area. Finally, I cannot recommend a place without mentioning food. Vienna is the birthplace of the ‘Sacher Torte’. A Sacher Torte is a dense chocolate cake with a thin layer of apricot jam on top, covered in a glossy chocolate icing. Some may remember seeing this cake in a technical challenge on Great British Bake Off. As a huge fan of Bake Off and chocolate cake I knew I had to try it. It did not disappoint and, being a Viennese staple, you will not struggle to find a café serving it. Travelling in winter can be ideal – it is not peak season in many cities, so travel and accommodation is significantly cheaper, and destinations are often less crowded making for a more pleasant experience. Prague and Vienna are amazing cities so don’t be put off by the colder temperatures. Both cities have plenty to do to shelter from the cold – just make sure to plan accordingly!
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LIFE&STYLE
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricklife
Galentine’s: The Unofficial Holiday Girls Worldwide Should Be Celebrating Life&Style’s Romana Essop tells us why a day for ‘ladies celebrating ladies’ is just as important as Valentine’s Day Romana Essop Life&Style Writer
Valentine’s Day has been around for centuries. However, in recent years it has become an increasingly controversial celebration, with many arguing that love should be expressed every day of the year. This often results in 14th February becoming little more than an excuse to buy flowers and chocolate, or to watch a romantic film with a partner, stereotypically leaving singles to grieve for their relationship status with junk food and sad music. But the last decade has introduced an alternative celebration for the world’s women: Galentine’s Day. Originally popularised in 2010 by American sitcom Parks and
Recreation, this unofficial occasion takes place on 13th February, allowing people to honour both Galentine’s and the traditional Valentine’s the following day. The day calls for a celebration of female friendships and general womanhood, encouraging women to commemorate and empower each other. Whilst such appreciation does not necessarily require the gifts often expected for Valentine’s Day, many women engage in exclusive girl-only gatherings in order to express gratitude for their friendships. Feminists across the globe have excitedly embraced this new concept, using it as an opportunity to further their appreciation of womanhood by acknowledging the power of female relationships and highlighting female achieve-
ments. Whether women approve of Valentine’s Day as a celebration or not, many agree that the essence of Galentine’s Day is harmless, and can only encourage the increased recognition for the female bond. Celebrities too are embracing the Galentine’s message, with Jenna Dewan-Tatum and Sophia Bush sharing their celebrations on Instagram last year. Khloe Kardashian too acknowledged the day through her app, blogging about Galentine’s Day themes and ideas. Similarly, hoards of businesses and brands with largely female target audiences are tapping into the newly popularised event. Just as Valentine’s Day prompts a marketing surge for chocolates and restaurant booking, Galentine’s has begun to pro-
mote the purchase of make up and afternoon tea for your friends, with some companies even creating new products specifically designed for the Valentine’s-Eve occasion. In many ways, February 13th has become an alternative International Women’s Day or Mother’s Day, with gift-giving and public appreciation of our female icons and inspirations being the main priorities for those who choose to celebrate it. The rapidly rising popularity of what began as a comical popculture conception has a lot to say about the changing values of today’s women. With every Galentine’s gift purchased or event planned, one can see the increasing importance women place on their friendships rather than (or as well as) their relation-
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ships. So-called ‘Palentine’s Day’ promotes a similar idea, although Galentine’s is not exclusive to singles and perhaps provides a further excuse to celebrate the accomplishments of feminists as well as friends. The end of last year saw Redbrick’s Molly Brooker review Clementine Ford’s book Fight Like A Girl, focusing particularly on her call for women to value, protect and embrace their female friendships. I could not agree more, and regardless of whether you choose to actively celebrate Galentine’s Day or not, its ultimate purpose and intention to empower women and strengthen our friendships is undoubtedly beneficial to us all.
The Spice Girls’ Charity T-Shirts Cause Controversy
Life&Style writer Gabrielle Taylor-Dowson exposes the shocking reality behind the manufacturing of The Spice Girls’ Comic Relief T-Shirts Gabrielle TaylorDowson Life&Style Writer
The Spice Girls recently expressed their involvement in, and support of, Comic Relief’s ‘gender justice’ campaign. According to Comic Relief, this is a campaign built around the belief that women and girls everywhere ‘should have equal power and agency in decisions.’ The charity has made clear a number of areas of gender-based injustices that they aim to fight, from the right to an education to supporting feminist organisations.
“The workers are paid £82 a month for 54 hours of work a week” The money raised from sales of The Spice Girls’ ‘#IWannaBeASpiceGirl’ t-shirts (which are being sold for £19.40 with £11.60 reportedly going towards the campaign), is one of
the ways they hope to achieve these admirable goals.
Guardian Graphic
However, it has recently been revealed that the women who work in the factory in Bangladesh which produces the t-shirts are being grossly underpaid. According to the BBC the workers are paid £82 a month for 54 hours of work a week. This amounts to just under 40p an hour. In response to the backlash to this news, Comic Relief said it had checked with Represent – the company responsible for producing the t-shirts – that workers were getting paid fairly. However, Represent apparently changed where the clothes were being manufactured without informing Comic Relief. Represent has since said it takes ‘full responsibility,’
and would refund customers if needed.
“It is tragically ironic that the production of t-shirts being sold with the aim to combat gendered injustices has become an example of how such systems work against workers” While there is no suggestion that The Spice Girls, or Comic Relief, had any knowledge of the working conditions of the factory, this revelation does shine a light on the risks of fast fashion and adds to a long list of concerns over the treatment of workers who make clothes that are sold at extreme increases in price by big
retailers. It is tragically ironic that the production of t-shirts being sold with the aim to combat gendered injustices has become an example of how such systems work against workers, and subsequently contribute to the continuing poverty and inequity in countries like Bangladesh.
Guardian Graphic
Women constitute the majority of clothes-makers in fast fashion factories. In Bangladesh, for example, there is an 80 – 95% female majority in such factories. Structurally, managerial positions are filled by men, while women usually work at the lower levels on the production line where they are expected to hit massively
unrealistic targets. As a result of this power imbalance, in which a male-majority management controls a female-majority workforce, instances of physical, mental and sexual harm on women are reported as being used as disciplinary measures. This is exactly the kind of systematic gendered injustice that Comic Relief’s campaign is trying to combat. Ultimately, this case shows how essential it is that any celebrity, brand or charity thoroughly checks that the goods they are selling are made in factories which pay a wage that is at least at the standard living wage and provides agreeable conditions in which to work. The fair treatment of workers is not something that can be brushed over in a single boardroom meeting; the rights of workers need to be made a higher priority. Whilst it can seem daunting and even expensive to break away from the fast fashion chain and explore fair-trade products, or more expensive higher quality clothing items, the process begins with knowledge, and consumers can at least try and raise an awareness of this and place pressure on retail leaders to make changes.
Andrew Richard / BuzzFeed
Friday 8th February 2019
LIFE&STYLE @redbricklife
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The Pope and The Pill Scientists have revealed that the monthly 7-day-break taken on the combined contractive pill was only introduced to replicate a woman’s natural menstrual cycle in order to satisfy the ‘Pope Rule’. Food&Drink Editor Emily Calder discusses how the break is unnecessary and perhaps even reduces its effectivity Emily Calder Food&Drink Editor
the risk of pregnancy significantly, and whilst missing seven days of pills is usually safe, after nine days ovulation is very likely to occur. This means that if you forget a day or two at either end of your break, which many of us often do, you are at risk of becoming pregnant if sexually active. Reducing the effectiveness of a medication which has the primary purpose of preventing pregnancy surely seems counterproductive, especially as we no longer have to deal with such severe side effects that the pill caused in the 1950s.
Anyone who takes the combined contraceptive pill knows the drill: you take your pill every day for 21 days, followed by a seven-day break in which you experience a period-like bleed every month. Although the pill certainly gives our periods more regularity, we still find ourselves in panic when we realise that we are due to break at an inconvenient time – be it a holiday, a party, or perhaps during exams. However, it seems that the way we have been taking the pill is perhaps sub-optimal. Recent evidence has been discovered that states that perhaps we do not need to be taking this break as religiously as we have been taught. The Faculty of Sexual and Reproductive Healthcare (FSRH) has said that this week off has no medical benefits; meaning that NHS doctors from now on may advise us that it is in fact perfectly acceptable, and safe, to take the pill continuously. Some argue that when Catholic A solution to this seems necesscientist John Rock worked on the development of the contraceptive sary. The pill has been modernpill in the late 1950s, he devised ised and contains far lower doses, the concept of the seven-day break meaning that it is now safer to so that the pill could be perceived reduce the frequency and lengths as merely a replica of a woman’s of our ‘breaks’ from it. Medical natural menstrual cycle. This advice seems to state that a good would have, in his mind, made balance would be to shorten interthis form of contraception more vals from seven days to four days, acceptable to the Vatican; howev- and only break a few times a year – this should be enough to er, he was unsuccessful in reduce the risk of convincing the Pope of ovulation this. However, things ( a n d may not be quite so simple. In an interview with Vice, Jane Dickson, Vice President of the year the first FSRH, states that the seven-day pill became availbreak exists for a able in Great number of reasons: Britain ‘Some of the hormones that were in the pill were 100 times greater in dose than the pills we have now [...] part of the reason for the seven-day break was just a break from the massive amount of hormones.’ Back in the early days of the contraceptive pill, such high hormonal dosages often caused symptoms similar to pregnancy symptoms, such as morning sickness. For this reason, it was also desirable to have the break to reassure women that they were not pregnant – which is also a reason why many people are thankful for this seven-day break today, in spite of not dealing with such severe symptoms. Whatever the reasons for this seven-day break, some researchers argue that it is hazardous in that it may in fact increase the risk of pregnancy. Allowing the hormone levels to fall again increases
“Women should be granted complete control over their bodies by being given the freedom to use the pill how they so choose”
therefore pregnancy) caused more research and widely avail- or risks as possible. Contraception by the current protocol. able information about our needs to be as accessible as we While most profesbodies and contracep- can make it, and should come sionals believe we tion, but we need to with the most up to date informado need to have improve our options tion and advice that we can obtain. breaks to avoid as much as we can. Cisgendered women should be breakthrough The pill is associ- granted complete control over bleeding and ated with a number their bodies by being given the overgrowth of of side effects, freedom to use the pill how they of women aged tissues, it is including mood so choose, rather than being 20-24 take the perfectly swings, blood restrained by perhaps ill-advised and out-dated principles. healthy for us to clots, and contraceptive pill nausea, The information and reap the benefits a n d respect that we of fewer, shorter periods and experithose deserve is far overence less discomforts taking due – we have The pill is and more chance of sucthe pill are arguably been cessful contraception. statistically misled for 60 As valuable as this new infor- more likely to years, and now mation might be, I cannot help but suffer from that the truth is be distressed by the wider issues it mental health out, we will stems from. With modern medi- issues. Time hopefully gain cine being so sophisticated, how after time I a better undereffective when used corare cis-women only now discov- have heard standing of the rectly ering this vital information about friends of mine contraception our bodies? The fact that we have complain about that so many of us been ignorant to this for 60 years, the impact that the are taking on a daiespecially when, according to pill has had on them, ly-basis. Sexual Health Charity ‘FPA’, two- and many of them have thirds of women aged 20-24 take suffered so badly that they have Have an opinion? Let us the contraceptive pill is truly been forced to stop taking it alto- know @redbricklife shocking. Not only gether. I feel that this information do we need is a huge wake-up call for the fact that we need more widely available contraceptive options – for all genders – with as few s i d e effects
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Lesia Karalash
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SCI&TECH
Friday 8th February 2019
@redbricktech
The Green Heart’s Pavegen: A Worthy Investment? Peter Amor Sci&Tech Writer
Perhaps the biggest recent item of news around the University has been the completion of the Green Heart, the new parkland in the centre. This has brought to an end many months of highly disruptive, noisy and unpleasant building work, and replaced it with a pleasant arrangement of grass, walkways, and bright lights. It is no understatement to say that the cost has been controversial, with Comment having already covered this topic in issue 1501. I write not so much to repeat the point as to draw attention to one particular part of the Green Heart - the unusual collection of triangle paving that makes up the Pavegen system, installed at the end of the bridge section, next to the stairs. This unusual section generates power from the footsteps of people going over it, which it is claimed will be sufficient to charge mobile phones on the various benches. The manufacturer of this system, Pavegen, features some glowing quotes from many prestigious media sources including the BBC, Forbes, and Bloomberg on their website. According to Pavegen, Forbes
claimed that ‘Pavegen wants to over the section of paving. If we become the Tesla of walking’ - a are generous and assume that rather bold claim. And indeed, the each person takes 2 firm steps, idea of a paving system that not and that the day is 8 hours long, only withstands footfall but also that gives us a power of 1.1 Watts. generates power is an attractive Again, for context, even an energy efficient LED light bulb needs a one. One must bear in mind, power of 15 Watts. Let us now compare this to however, that things which seem too good to be true probably are. another form of renewable energy While it is true that the system - solar. According to theecoexpert produces 2 to 4 joules of energy one should expect to generate per footstep, this figure with no about 200 Watts from a mere context is utterly meaningless. square metre of photovoltaic According to Tesco a single 51 panels, in good light. The gram mars bar contains 228 kcal, installation cost for 1 square metre could not be found, but for or 953,952 joules of ener8 square metres on a gy. In other words, roof the estimated just 1 gram of Mars cost is £1500 bar contains over £3000. 4000 times more 1 gram of Mars By way of energy than the comparison, Pavegen sysbar contains over Pavegen’s tem generates founder, from a step. 4000 times more Laurence Perhaps Kemballfood is an energy than the Cook, claimed unfair comsystem generates in May 2018 parison to that the price for make, since from 1 step a square metre of food (especially Pavegen flooring chocolate bars) do could drop to ‘around tend to be quite ener£500 within the next few gy-dense. Let us instead years’. It is likely that the consider the Pavegen system over a whole day. On a typi- University paid far more than cal day, the Green Heart blog quoted here for its system - the claims that 4000 people will walk first tiles cost a whopping £20,000
per square metre. Even taking the lower figure, this would make the same area cost around £4000, £1000 more than the solar panels while producing (at least during daylight) over 100 times less power. This is not where the problems end with the Pavegen system, however. If you have been to the area where the tiles reside, you will notice the substantial gaps of normal paving around the system. It is entirely possible, and indeed I have witnessed it on several occasions, to step right around the system, generating no power whatsoever. Another potential problem could occur around maintenance. Unlike photovoltaic panels which have no moving parts and require almost no maintenance, the Pavegen system is made up entirely of moving parts, which are all potential failure points. Now it may be that the components have been made so strongly that they will not need replacement, but if they do, this will require at least closing off the path, causing at least some inconvenience to Green Heart users. The numbers just do not stack up – it would seem that solar panels would have been a far better investment.
Plastic: Fantastic or Drastic?
Sci&Tech Editor Francesca Benson evaluates how plastic packaging impacts the planet and what could be done to improve Francesca Benson Sci&Tech Editor
With our current treatment of the environment and prospects for the future of our planet in crisis, it is more important than ever that we start becoming more conscious of how human actions impact the world around us. One action that many people and companies are turning to is curbing plastic use. Fees for plastic shopping bags and replacing plastic straws with paper equivalents are becoming more widespread, while many consumers recycle plastic and buy from companies that use ecofriendly packaging to reduce their plastic waste. Plastics are typically polymers derived from petroleum, which is a finite fossil resource and a major
source of carbon emissions. Plastics are very durable, however this means that they take a long time to decompose. Exposure to ultraviolet light drives the breaking down of plastics in a process known as photodegradation, but that process can take hundreds of years to complete and waste buried deep in landfills is unlikely to be exposed to this light. Slow degradation also causes plastic waste to accumulate in oceans and other bodies of water, harming ecosystems and being ingested by wildlife. When they do degrade, harmful byproducts can leach into the environment. One such chemical is bisphenol A (BPA), which can negatively impact estrogen hormone function, especially in aquatic life.
However, some benefits of plastics are clear. The fact that they are typically waterproof and durable make plastics good for containing food or other products in a sanitary manner, helping to reduce contamination and food waste. Their lightweight nature could also reduce fuel consumption in product transport, with one study suggesting that the energy used here can be reduced by 52% by using lighter plastic drink packaging rather than heavier metal or glass. One way to reap the rewards of plastic use without the impact on the environment could be to utilise bioplastics. These are polymers made from renewable biomass derivatives such as starch or cellulose, rather than nonrenewable petrochemicals. This also reduces their carbon foot-
print, as breaking down does not require carbon trapped in fossils to be released into the atmosphere. The most common type of bioplastic is polylactic acid (PLA), which is mainly made from corn. It is compostable, however only in specific facilities which are not always locally available. When not properly composted PLA still accumulates in the environment and harms ecosystems, and concerns have been raised about the environmental impacts of commercial farming processes used to generate the biomass needed to produce PLA. Given these factors it is vital to improve our recylcing methods and that industries push to develop and utilise more viable alternatives to plastic packaging, especially single-use nonrecyclable plastics.
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Creature Feature: Pay the Quoll Toll Imogen Claire Sci&Tech Writer
S J Bennett
The quoll (Dasyurus) is a carnivorous ground-dwelling catlike animal, their name coming from the language of the Guugu Yimithirr Aboriginal tribe in northern Queensland, Australia. It may look like a cat, but the quoll is a marsupial and is related to the Tasmanian devil, numbats, dunnarts and wambengers. Six species are found in Australia and Tasmania, New Guinea and West Papua, and vary widely in phenotype. Each species lives in unique biomes to the others, and keep themselves to themselves until it's time to mate. As aforementioned, they are marsupials, so they have a little pouch to keep babies in. The mothers have litters of up to 18 pups, but only six of them will survive to adulthood. They live in old tree logs or especially cosy places under rock outcrops and hunt in the night. The smaller species eat insects, frogs and fruit whereas the larger quolls will scarf down birds, rabbits, and astoundingly enough, echidnas. Quolls have communal toilet areas, which act as social spaces and for marking territory - so you may have more in common with an Australian ground marsupial than you think. The quoll are plagued by cane toads. Quolls eat the alien invasive species of toad and are poisoned, which has caused their numbers to decrease drastically over the past 90 years. Additionally, the urban sprawl of Australian towns, the mining industry and agricultural expansion threaten the habitats of the marsupial, removing foliage for camouflage and introducing pets that hunt them. As such, conservation programmes have worked tirelessly to secure the future of these animals. They have 'periods' in their menstrual cycle, when the female's pouch changes colour and size, which was incredibly valuable research for the breeding efforts. Last year, 20 Eastern quolls were raised and bred in Tasmania then translocated to Booderee National Park in New South Wales, meeting resounding success as three female quolls were sighted with 15 pups between them. But steady now - you needn't book the first flight out down under to see tiny baby quolls for yourself, because Bristol Zoo was the first zoo in the UK to successfully produce a happy family of quolls.
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The Furthest Reach of Humankind New Horizons' flyby of Ultima Thule marks a new record in space Danielle Hatton
Sci&Tech Writer
This month, the field of space exploration has been celebrating a new milestone – a 4 billion-milestone, in fact. Deep in the far reaches of the solar system, an icy rock resembling a snowman spins in the infinite loneliness of space. Its name, Ultima Thule, quite literally means ‘a distant unknown region’. Even if you shrunk Earth to the size of the full stop at the end of this sentence, no piece of paper in the world would let you draw this distance to scale. In fact, you’d need a piece of paper so
long it would stretch almost to Jupiter before you could plot the location of Ultima Thule. It’s no surprise, then, that it’s taken NASA’s New Horizons spacecraft thirteen years to reach the chunk of ice, despite travelling at over 10 miles per second. The probe set off on its journey to Pluto at on the 19th January 2006, and reached its target in 2015 before continuing towards the Kuiper Belt. This band of icy rocks lies at the very edge of the solar system, and is inexplicably vast. Astrophysicists are interested in the region because it’s so cold, so far from the sun, and things collide so infrequently that
it’s almost literally ‘frozen in time’, containing remnants of an early solar system. Perfectly preserved in a chilly -245°C, (only 30 degrees above absolute zero,) chemical processes have almost completely stopped meaning these objects are unchanged since their formation some 4.5 billion years ago. Ultima Thule is one such freeze-fossilised relic. Awaiting New Horizon’s flyby of Ultima Thule has been tense: the spacecraft needed to be positioned in exactly the right direction to take pictures – one millimetre off-target, and NASA would be receiving pictures of empty space. Thankfully, the flyby was
successful, and New Horizons sent back its first blurred images of the 18-mile wide rock on the 1st January. Much to the excitement of lead investigator Dr Alan Stern, sharper pictures have arrived, revealing in detail the bi-lobed shape and red hue of Ultima Thule, confirming theories about its formation. ‘This is the first object that we can clearly tell was born this way,’ said Dr Stern at the NASA briefing. ‘This really puts the nail on the coffin now. We know that this is how these kinds of objects in many cases form.’ Billions of years ago, particles
Wikimedia Commons
of ice and dust were compelled by gravity to form two objects, Ultima and Thule. These frozen masses rotated around each other in a slow dance, eventually spiralling in to touch. The collision was gentle – perhaps at speeds of only 1 mile per hour. ‘We are seeing a physical representation of the beginning of planetary formation, frozen in time,’ says the mission’s geology manager, Jeff Moore. The Ultima Thule flyby is an astonishing landmark in space exploration, and New Horizons will continue to extend the reach of humankind as it travels deeper into the unknown – so watch this space.
Examining Sex Bias in Immunity Amandeep Kaur Sci&Tech Writer
In a world of gender inequality, the human immune response to health and disease is also influenced by differences between the sexes, albeit a biological-driven phenomenon. Adult males and females generate different immunological responses to both normal and pathogen-infected cells depending on the organization of chromosomes, reproductive organs and sex hormone levels. Many studies looking into sexbased immune responses have found that the frequency and severity of infections are higher in males. The female immune system is capable of clearing pathogens faster and more effectively. For example, during the 1918 influenza pandemic, fewer women than men died. We now also know
that females generate greater antibody responses with increased number of B cells in response to infections and vaccinations including influenza, herpes virus and smallpox virus vaccines. To put it simply, females have stronger immune responses than males. The distinct immunological differences between males and females in health, disease and treatment are biologically governed by genetic mediators, hormones and evolution. The genetic advantage of two X chromosomes allows females to deactivate one X in every cell and utilize the other. Males, on the other hand are forced to upregulate gene expression to compensate for their single X chromosome, which when faulty can lead to sex-linked diseases including colour blindness and haemophilia. A number of genes linked to immunity are present on the X
chromosome of which some, for example tumour suppressor genes may ‘escape’ their inactivated state and function normally, preventing the development of cancer. Such enhanced immune function in females is not always beneficial. Degradation of the inactivated X chromosome over time means that the ability to mount stronger immune responses via the ‘doubledose’ effect also increases the risk of the body attacking normal/selftissue and developing inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Approximately 80% of autoimmune patients are females and are up to ten times more likely to suffer from diseases such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis and Graves disease. Males, however, show an increased susceptibility to nonreproductive cancers including haematological malignancies, bladder, lung and stomach cancers, with an almost twofold
greater risk of mortality than females. Many genes linked to sex-specific imbalance in cancer mutation rates are often found in males and exclusively on the X chromosome. Sex hormones such as testosterone and oestrogen play an important role in modulating inflammatory responses and autoimmune diseases. Oestrogen hormone is known to clear viral infections and stimulate faster wound healing by prompting cellular proliferation, which can be a seen as a double-edged sword due to the role of oestrogen in breast cancer. Androgens such as testosterone generally suppress immune function in males, for example by producing fewer antibodies in response to the flu shot and inhibiting antiviral cytokine production. Sex-bias exists in infections, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases and cancers. It is one of
the many factors that influences how the immune system sees and responds to an infection or disease. Generally, females are more likely to develop autoimmune diseases whilst males face an increased risk to cancer. Such disparities are likely to be a result of both males and females evolving independently to increase survival and reproductive success via natural selection. Moreover, personalized medicine is revolutionizing the field of therapeutics. Gaining a better understanding of the fundamental biological mechanisms that underlie differences between males and females can form the basis of sex-specific effective preventative measures and personalised treatments. Perhaps such strategies would endeavour to close the gap between the average male and female lifespan or at least give men a fighting chance to overcome man-flu.
A Blood Test Could Predict Alzheimer’s Issy Greenwood Sci&Tech Writer
Alzheimer’s disease affects approximately 44 million people worldwide and is the most common form of dementia. It is a disorder that renders sufferers disorientated, lacking in shortterm and long-term memory and with severe difficulty with speech, movement and other activities requiring coordination. The progress of Alzheimer’s disease leaves patients at heightened risk of acute infections such as pneumonia, and the inability to swallow and eat can lead to malnutrition or dehydration. These related
conditions are the ultimate cause of death in these patients, with dementia and Alzheimer’s disease overtaking heart disease as the lead cause of death in Britain. The condition arises as a result of amyloid-beta plaques and neurofibrillary tangles arising in the brain, as well as the loss of neurones and of synapses. All of these factors contribute to progressive cognitive decline in sufferers. It has long been known that these plaques, containing proteins ‘amyloid-Beta’ and ‘tau’ arise long before clinical symptoms manifest. Thinning of the cortex of the brain, referred to as ‘cortical thinning’, has also been shown to arise long before symp-
toms. These changes can be assessed via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), or even measurement of the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flowing through the brain and spinal cord, however these procedures are expensive and invasive respectively, making them poor candidates for routine clinical practice. Published in the Journal Nature Medicine, researchers have recently made a novel breakthrough in the use of a blood test to identify these changes up to 16 years ahead of symptom onset. The test utilises Neurofilament light chain (NfL), a component of the axonal cytoskeleton; the structure that maintains the shape and
stability of the axon of a neurone in the brain. NfL is expressed in large ‘myelinated’ neurones, that are coated in a protective fatty sheath referred to as ‘myelin’. Changes in the levels of NfL in serum of the blood are linked to cortical thinning, cognitive changes, and general atrophy of the brain, making it a key fluid biomarker of the progression of Alzheimer’s. The rate of change of serum NfL was shown to peak in participants converting from pre-symptomatic to symptomatic stages of the disease, and it was shown that the greater the rate of change in the serum, the closer the individual was to converting to the symptomatic stage.
Particular mutations in the genes that encode the amyloid beta precursor protein (APP), a protein that later forms the amyloid-beta found in plaques, can predispose patients to the development of Alzheimer’s. This test was shown to be particularly useful in discriminating between those that carried these mutations and those that didn’t. As a result, this blood test is a key development in facilitating diagnosis in a clinical setting and could allow the treatment, or even prevention, of Alzheimer’s disease before a patient experiences symptoms.
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Health&Fitness: The Consequences and Solutions of Alcohol in Fitness Alex Kirkup-Lee discusses the way in which alcohol affects our body, providing solutions show how to continue enjoying alcohol without it ruining your fitness goals Alex Kirkup-Lee Sport Writer
“Our bodies treat alcohol as a toxin, causing it to facilitate fat storage” “Researchers found alcohol impairs muscle protein synthesis and muscle growth” Drinking is a big part of uni culture, but what effect is this having on your fitness goals? Alcohol does negatively impact our bodies in a number of ways, however, this does not mean alcohol needs to be cut from our diets entirely. There are ways to lessen its negative impact and combine it with a healthy lifestyle to still achieve your fitness goals:
Alcohol can lead to fat gain Alcohol is full of ‘empty’ calories, meaning it contains no nutritional value. Alcohol contains seven calories per gram, making one VK roughly 168 calories! Our bodies see alcohol as a toxin, causing it to facilitate fat storage. This means our metabolism focuses on removing of toxic waste, rather than burning the stored calories from food. This means that, when alcohol is in our system, the calories consumed from any food we eat (including that greasy burger from that takeaway) are highly likely to be stored as fat.
Swap high calorie for low calorie alternatives Be aware of how many calories alcohol contains. This does not mean that you cannot enjoy a glass of wine with dinner or have some VKs on a night out, but perhaps try and stick to spirits, rather than wine or beer if you’re going to be drinking a lot. Also, beware of mixers! Many contain lots of carbs and sugar so opt for lower calorie ones. Additionally, consider having less snacks in the daytime before a night out to make up for the extra calories you’ll consume in the evening. Therefore, you’ll be making up for some of the extra calories consumed by drinking.
Alcohol can inhibit ‘gains’ Researchers have found alcohol impairs muscle protein synthesis and muscle growth, even in combination with optimal nutrition, meaning it can limit ‘gains’ made from a session. Lack of fluid caused by dehydration from alcohol can increase protein breakdown, preventing muscle growth.
Drink more water! Try and get a glass of water every time you get a drink. And make sure you drink lots of water before bed. Everyone who drinks is likely to get a hangover because of dehydration, but drinking more water throughout the night could limit this and also lessen the damage to your ‘gains’.
Bad decision making Most of us have had the case of the munchies after a night out, and it’s hard to resist a trip to Dixy’s when all your friends are going. This is not unusual, as alcohol increases your cravings for unhealthy food, and lowers self-control. However, this can have detrimental consequences for your progress if done too many times. Eating fast food is the surest way to go excessively over your daily kcal allowance.
Pre-plan before a night out If you think you’re going to be craving food after a night out, try and make extra food at dinner time and then save it to heat up when you get home from the night out. This is much better than buying fast food: not only will it contain fewer calories, but it will make you feel much better than having Dixy’s chicken and have far less of an impact on jeopardising your fitness goals!
It's the day after, too Hangovers are caused by dehydration. When you wake up with a hangover not only are you craving junk food but you are also less likely to make it to the gym, and more likely to make poor eating decisions, as we crave something that will make us feel good immediately in order to suppress the pain of a hangover. If you do manage to workout the day after, you are likely to have a lower quality training session because your liver will be working to clear toxic by-products of alcohol from your system, meaning you wont be able to clear the lactic acid produced from exercising, making you feel tired much quicker.
Gin & Tonic 60-70kcal (diet tonic)
Plan your workouts around your nights out If you know you are not one to go to the gym after a night out, then factor that into your weeks plan and use that day as your rest day! This means you won’t be left feeling guilty for missing a workout. Alternatively, opt for some light exercise, even getting out of the house and going for a walk can help as it will clear your hangover and you will still be doing some form of exercise so the day won’t have been a complete write off.
Scott Webb
Pint of Lager 180-200kcal
Obviously the affects of alcohol cannot be eradicated completely by these ‘solutions’, but they will help to make alcohol slightly less harmful. Drinking alcohol all the time would not be beneficial and could dramatically hinder fitness gains, however if drunk occasionally and in moderation, alcohol can be consumed without affecting your fitness goals too drastically. Just like occasionally going to the gym would not increase your fitness, occasionally drinking alcohol will not decrease your fitness. Meaning going out occasionally is absolutely fine. Consistency and regularity is everything in fitness: for the good or the bad.
Budweiser 145kcal
Rosé 175ml 140-150kcal
Images from: Alles, Pxhere, DelloBatista, Bavaria
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Friday 8th February 2019
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2019 Golf Rule Changes: Have they Been Worth the Hassle? Isabel Baldwin Sport Editor
Golf has gained a reputation as stuffy, pretentious and perhaps, over the top, particularly in consideration to its rules and etiquette. However, changes to the Rules of Golf that came into force on January 1st in the hope of eradicating slow play appeared to many players revolutionary and modernising. Yet just a month into the new year, the new rules have already caused a wave of controversy. Rule 10.3b(3), which states a
caddie cannot ‘deliberately stand on or close to an extension of the line of play behind the player's ball when the player begins taking a stance for the stroke and until the stroke is made’, was originally expected to provide the biggest issues for the women’s tour. Yet, the rule claimed its first victim on the last hole of the last day of the Omega Dubai Dessert Classic when China’s Haotong Li was given a two-shot penalty. European Tour officials claimed the professional had violated the rule when his caddie was seen to stand behind the golfer whilst he took his stance for his birdie putt.
Li paid the ultimate price as the two-shot penalty knocked him out of a top ten finishing spot, costing him the loss of $98,000 winnings.
“The new rules have already caused a wave of controversy” The decision caused outcry amongst the golf world with Paul McGinley claiming it to be ‘so
ridiculously marginal’ and even European Tour CEO Keith Pelley branding it ‘grossly unfair.’ The decision does seem absurd, why should a player be penalised for something that neither benefitted nor hindered their play? Yet, the main issue at the heart of the controversy is whether Golf is actually penalising itself through its own penalties. Golf can appear to some a withering sport, and the rules do not exactly add to its appeal. The world of golf needs to question how welcoming is the sport really if the rules are nothing but ridiculous.
George ‘Saint’ Groves Calls it Quits Andy Brennan Sport Writer
George ‘Saint’ Groves has announced his retirement after a long and illustrious career. Now 30, the London born boxer beckons the end of his career on his own terms, something seldom seen in a sport often so alluring it becomes a poison. What made the man such an attraction to his fans was his professionalism and dedication to the sport. Unlike other fellow Super Middleweights such as Chris Eubank Jr, Groves often took a more quiet and measured approach. His rivalries were
fierce, exemplified in the excellent two-fight saga with fellow Briton Carl Froch. Ultimately, he was a fighter and man of the people and this was illustrated in his beautifully well thought out, technical boxing style. His reputation as a fighter transformed from respectable to admirable with his resurgence in 2017, winning the WBA Super Middleweight Title against Fedor Chudinov after it looked like he was destined to fail following a narrow loss to then WBC champion Badou Jack. His dismantling of Chris Eubank Jr in the World Boxing Super Serie (WBSS) Semi-final will be remembered as Groves’ career high, as he shocked
fans around the world, many of whom predicted Eubank as the clear winner of the bout. His defeats did not tarnish his reputation, but merely added flavour to the ever-likeable persona that he continually displayed throughout his exciting career. His retirement may have come months after his defeat to WBSS champion Callum Smith, but his choice to retire at a time of his choosing, rather than necessity is proof of George Groves’ true character. He will forever be remembered as a man who was steadfast and true, who fought not for the fame or money, but out of love for a craft he had dedicated his life to.
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Sports Club of the Fortnight: Lacrosse Jack Simpkin Sport Editor
Often known as the electric, exciting, yet unfamiliar sport that many might not have played before, Lacrosse is a sport that is growing in popularity across the country’s university sport scene. This season, the University of Birmingham’s teams have impressed as much as any other across the UK, and this week, we caught up with three representatives from the club to find out more about our club. This season, the Men’s 1s, and Women’s 2s and 4s all boast undefeated records in their respective BUCS leagues, and when asked what that success can be attributed to, Men’s Club Captain Daniel Jolly explained how a ‘great group mentality, great drive’ has contributed significantly. Women’s Team Captain Alex Mitchell was keen to emphasise how work in between games has brought success in the league – ‘We’ve increased our training a lot. We’ve been working really
hard.’ Many would perhaps never have played Lacrosse before coming to university, but both Jolly and Mitchell were keen to stress how the possibility to progress from having no prior experience, to playing for a BUCS team, was a key ‘selling point’ for their club. Jolly, who himself came to Birmingham having never played before, progressed as far as playing for the 1st team within his first year at the club – ‘When people join a sport, they do want to play for the uni. I think that’s why a lot of guys don’t go for the likes of rugby, football, cricket because they know it’s so competitive.’ Mitchell echoing his thoughts – ‘We have the elite and we have the development. We have both sides.’ Another prime example of that progression being Fergus Mcmahon who also never played before university, but travelled to Israel to represent Scotland at the
A note from the Sports Officer: Simon Price Sports Officer
World Cup last July, and was even named the Scots’ MVP for the tournament. Social Sec Molly Mckenna, who did play Lacrosse in her school days, explained the social side of club – ‘A lot of people when they’re joining, join because it’s a really interesting sport, it’s the fastest sport on legs... then I think, people are pleasantly surprised about how much of a prevalent part of it the social aspect is. That is a lot of what keeps people in the club, and that’s why it’s growing.’
To find out more about the club on Facebook, follow them on Instagram at @uoblacrosseclub, and on Twitter @UoBLC.
Mens 1s had a huge fixture against third in the league Nottingham and came out with a massive 15-2 victory to take the Midlands 1A title for the 3rd year in a row. A Facebook event was created with player introductions prior to the match to boost the excitement which I also thought was great! Meanwhile the Womens 2s played out a thrilling 9-9 draw against Nottingham which puts them second in the league with one game to go. Womens 3rds beat Derby 17-4 in Midlands 2A while our Womens 4s dominated De Montfort 12-0 to maintain top of their respective league. All in all, University of Birmingham Lacrosse had a week to celebrate fixture wise and seem set for a strong remainder of the season.
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Violence in Football: Is it out of hand? Jake Bradshaw Sport Editor
Passion, when it comes to football, is undeniably a good thing. Not only can a fanatical fan-base boost a team to success, but the rapturous celebrations of an unashamedly emotional player or manager following a last-minute goal or dramatic equaliser are a joy to behold and are part of what makes football so popular. Even for neutrals it's great to see this passion and emotion, and this extends to the fans as well. I'd much rather watch a game involving raucous supporters than sitting through the sporadic smattering of applause mingled with a few lonely shouts of ‘Come on!’ As with most things in life, however, except perhaps 50%-off pizza deals, too much of a good thing can cause serious problems. The most recent round of the FA Cup saw Championship side Millwall produce one of their results of the season to defeat Premier League outfit Everton 3-2 at The Den. Unfortunately, the game will be remembered less for the football, and more for the violence and racism displayed by the supporters. Millwall's Chief Executive Steve Kavanagh told the BBC that racism ‘isn't just a Millwall thing,’ but is this excuse acceptable? It's true that the problems displayed at The Den are not exclusive to the two clubs involved. In fact, they aren’t just problems the sporting world has to face, but society in general. However, when it comes to sporting events, we see the passion and emotions involved often boiling over into something unpleasant. How many times when watching a football game live can you see supporters foul-mouthing and gesturing towards players and opposition fans? It's this type of behaviour that can lead to violence, and when targetted at specific groups of people, can turn racist. Nobody is trying to prevent supporters following and cheering on their side. But we as a fan-base must remember that it is just a game. The tragedies the footballing world has experienced over recent months seem to have done nothing to prove that more important things exist in life than sport. Violence and racism will unfortunately never be completely iradicated. However, we can try our best to limit them. As a follower of my hometown club Chesterfield, which has seen a remarkable collapse over the past few seasons, I know just as well as anyone the anger and frustration sport can create. But these emotions do not, and should not, lead to hatred and violence.
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Woeful in the Windies: What has happened to Joe Root’s England? George Garrett Sport Writer
There are many words that could be used to describe English Cricket’s performance in the West Indies over the last few weeks. ‘Woeful,’ ‘abysmal’ or even ‘spineless’ are insults that have been thrown in the direction of the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB). All proving it has been nothing short of a horror show for the English in the Caribbean.
Before the series began, the English totally underestimated this West Indian outfit. Only playing two, two-day warm up games against mediocre opposition for a three match Test series tells a story in itself: a complete lack of suitable preparation for the conditions that they were soon to suffer in. The same could be said of England’s selection. Picking Adil Rashid ahead of Stuart Broad in the first Test match, leaving out a man with 433 in test wickets to his name, was an ill-fated deci-
sion founded on fantasy. Rashid went on to take no wickets in 26 overs, and England would go on to lose by 381 runs while Broad sat on the bench. Likewise, England’s batting performance illustrated how they were incapable at leaving the ball, not playing the ball on merit. Instead, they looked to flash at balls that weren’t there to score from, gift away wickets when they had to dig in, suffering collapse after collapse. They have failed to adapt – not playing the conditions, nor the scoreboard.
Questions should be asked of this England side and the ECB’s preparation for this series. They need to wake up and smell the coffee: play the situation, bat long, bat smart and prepare properly. This takes nothing away from this West Indies side, who have applied themselves throughout, playing with swagger and flare they have been brilliant. However, England need to learn to stop blaming county cricket for poor performances, and start to play the task at hand when it really matters.
Brian Minkoff
Birmingham City 2-0 Nottingham Forest: Vital Victory keeps Blues Play-Off hopes Alive Sport Writer Harry Shersby-Wignall reports on the Blues from St. Andrews Harry Shersby-Wignall Sport Writer
Goals from Jota and Che Adams were enough to secure three vital points for Birmingham City last Saturday up against Top 6 rivals, Nottingham Forest.
With both teams going into the second half of the season with the potential to mount a push for the Championship Play-Offs, this looked to be a tight, cagey affair on a bitterly cold afternoon at St. Andrews. However, it was anything but, with Nottingham Forest coming out of the blocks quickly, forcing Blues keeper Lee Camp into an early save from Adlene Guedioura’s volley after just five minutes. Joe Lolley then came close for the visitors when his effort from inside the box struck the post. Despite Forest’s lively start, the hosts took the lead on 13 minutes when Jota pounced onto Lukas Jutkiewicz’s header, flicked it over Yohan Benalouane before firing it into the bottom corner. Jota’s strike helped settle the Blues into the game who from
there on looked comfortable, with Forest rarely threatening for an equaliser. Jutkiewicz went close just before half-time, calling Costel Pantilimon into action after his low drive was well-saved by the 6’8” Italian.
“Adams, subject of several rejected bids from Premier League clubs, made it 16 goals for the season” The game erupted into action yet again after the interval, creating a heated atmosphere in the crisp Midlands air, with Forest
piling pressure on the Birmingham defence. The East Midlands side almost found an equaliser through debutant Leo Bonatini, five minutes from time – his volley was deflected just wide of Camp’s post. After relentless pressure from the visitors, Garry Monk’s Blues remained resilient, and in the first minute of added time, Che Adams’ shot on goal was illegally kept out by Benalouane’s hand, for which he was given his marching orders as Birmingham were awarded a penalty. Adams, who has been the subject of several rejected bids from Premier League clubs, made it 16 goals for the season as he slotted the penalty past Pantilimon to secure all three points, propelling the Blues above Forest into eighth. After the game I spoke to Birmingham defender, Maxime
Panoramio
Colin about the possibility of achieving a Play-Off spot, who said: ‘We have a lot of hope for this season... we have nothing to lose, we need to keep pushing and see where this team can go.’
Champions League Last 16 Preview: The Premier League Perspective Kit Shepard Sport Writer
The Champions League knockout stages begin next week, a sign that the business end of the season is drawing closer. With four Premier League sides in action, what can we expect from a quartet of very different ties? joshjdss
Manchester City v Shalke
Liverpool v Bayern Munich
Tottenham v Borussia Dortmund
Manchester United v PSG
The easiest of the four to predict. Despite some head-scratching losses recently, City have arguably the best squad in Europe and German side Schalke, who are languishing in the bottom half of the Bundesliga, should be no match for them. Pressure is mounting on Pep Guardiola to deliver in Europe at the Etihad; if he fails to win a trophy this season then he will need to reach the semi-finals of this year's Champions League just to match what Manuel Pellegrini achieved in his three years in charge of City.
Perennial contenders Bayern have underachieved in Germany this year, and could therefore put all their eggs in the Champions League basket after half a decade of European shortcomings. In contrast, the Reds, who have struggled on the continent this season, would surely prefer an inaugural Premier League title over another deep run in Europe. Jurgen Klopp’s men will undoubtedly do their utmost to compete on both fronts, but this tie is probably more important for Bayern, and that could give them the edge in this evenly-matched contest.
A third Anglo-German encounter. A red-hot Dortmund team, which includes exciting English teenager Jadon Sancho, who lead the Bundesliga by seven points. While they may view the league as their top priority just like Liverpool, they will benefit from the absence of Tottenham’s injured talisman Harry Kane and midfielder Dele All, meaning a depleted Spurs team face an uphill battle thwarting the Dortmund renaissance. Will Mauricio Pochettino perhaps live to regret not rotating his squad more over the festive period, to preserve key figures for this tie?
Perhaps the most intriguing tie of the round. Manchester United have been transformed under new manager and club legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, winning nine out of ten games since he replaced Jose Mourinho in December. They will be underdogs against PSG’s collection of superstars, but the French outfit will be missing the injured Neymar. This, combined with the eerie similarities between the Red Devils’ turbulent season and that of Chelsea’s Champions League winning side of 2012, indicates that an upset might just be on the cards.
Prediction: Schalke 1-5 Manchester City
Prediction: Liverpool 3-4 Bayern Munich
Prediction: Tottenham 1-3 Borussia Dortmund
Prediction: Man United 3-3 PSG (United win on away goals)
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Dublin Drubbing: Ruthless Roses dismantle Irish hopes
Ireland 20 England 32 Aviva Stadium HT: 10-17
Dan Hague looks back on the perfect start to Eddie Jones' side's Six Nations
Diallo 25
Dan Hague Sport Writer
Eddie Jones’ men announced themselves as serious World Cup contenders on Saturday evening with a colossal effort to halt the Irish tidal wave. Pundits before this Six Nations
saw Ireland as favourites. They hadn’t lost at home in two years, were ranked second in the world, and had recently beaten the number one ranked team in New Zealand. England, by contrast, hadn’t scored a try at the Aviva Stadium in eight years and had not won in Ireland since 2013. It was no surprise then that the
bookies had Ireland as eight point favourites. All these statistics amounted to nothing when French referee Jerome Garces blew the whistle. England were ferocious in defence. Players such as Tom Curry and Mark Wilson consistently smashed the Irish forwards behind the gain line, yet the standout defender for England was the irrepressible Mako Vunipola. A monumental 27 tackles saw him awarded man of the match. This defence allowed England to strangle the Irish. Owen Farrell consistently kept Joe Schmidt’s side in their own 22 with smart kicks to the corner. Conor Murray tried to relieve some pressure with his excellent box kicking game, but Jonny May was brilliant in the air, and nullified this traditional Irish strength. In attack England were much improved. The ferocious bludgeoning power of Billy Vunipola and Manu Tuilagi was well matched with the deft handling
skills of Henry Slade and Eliot Daly.
“England hadn’t scored a try at the Aviva Stadium in eight years and had not won in Ireland since 2013” Eddie Jones seems to have struck a perfect balance between power and guile with this experimental midfield. What was the result of this outstanding England performance? Joe Schmidt put it best ‘[Ireland] were beaten up.’ On the other hand, Eddie Jones’ reaction was typically pragmatic, claiming ‘we’re nowhere near our best.’ If this is true then the rest of the
world ought to watch out, because the English chariot has just begun to pick up speed. France at Twickenham next will be another tough challenge, but England will be full of confidence. W
BON
PTS
SCO
1
1
5
ENG
1
1
5
WAL
1
0
4
FRA
0
1
1
IRE
0
0
0
ITA
0
0
0
Round 2 Fixtures: SCO-IRE - 09/02 14:15PM ITA-WAL - 09/02 16:45PM ENG-FRA - 10/02 15:00PM
Winning starts for Wales and Scotland
David Molloy
Sport Writer Jake Davies reviews the opening games for the other Home Nations Jake Davies Sport Writer
France 19-24 Wales The opening game of Six Nations 2019 was truly a tale of two halves. Wales arrived at the Stade de France having earnt just seven victories from their thirteen meetings with France under Warren Gatland. Expecting a tight affair, the visitors made a number of errors and were blown away by
incredible play from the French, who were 16-0 up at half-time thanks to tries from Louis Picamoles and Yoann Huget. Remarkably, the Welsh emerged a different side in the second half, flipping the game on its head and scoring two tries through Tomos Williams and George North, before Dan Biggar scored a penalty which allowed them to take the lead at 16-17. North then went on to capitalise on an awful pass from Les Tricolores to break through the back line and score the winning try. It was an incredible comeback which acted as a statement of
intent from the Welsh, although France ultimately self-destructed in that second half.
Scotland 33-20 Italy Scotland dominated the Azzurri in a one-sided encounter at Murrayfield. Winger Blair Kinghorn played outstandingly, scoring a hat-trick alongside tries from Stuart Hogg and Chris Harris, which lifted the Scots to a deserved 33-3 lead entering the final ten minutes. Bizarrely, the hosts fell apart in the closing
phase of the game, as Guglielmo Palazzani, Edoardo Padovani and Angelo Esposito each scored a try to close the point gap between the sides. Despite a disappointing ending to the game, Gregor Townsend will be delighted with the bonus point victory for his side, who currently sit top of the table after Week One. Italy can take positives from that determined attacking display at the end, but it was too little too late on this occasion, thus it was Scotland who strengthened their case for being in with a chance to win this year’s trophy.
Super Bowl LIII: Like No Game the 3-13 NFL had Seen all Season Sport Writer Ben Garrett looks back on the Patriots' victory in Atlanta Ben Garrett Sport Writer
The 2018/2019 NFL season was capped off on Sunday evening with a game which was the antithesis of the season that led up to it. Super Bowl 53 was the third lowest scoring game of the entire NFL season and it was the lowest scoring Super Bowl ever. Both teams, the New England Patriots and the Los Angles Rams, had a vast amount of offensive talent heading into the match. The most obvious of these being that of,
arguably the greatest of all time, the quarterback of Tom Brady and the young, upcoming Rams quarterback of Jared Goff working alongside his running back of Todd Gurley. Instead of this offensive fire we thought that we would see, fans had to witness a game that was a defensive battle between two great football minds, Bill Belichick and Wade Phillips. The match became very slow at parts with the commenters getting excited over something as simple and tactical as a punt, showing that the game did not have the panache that we thought it would. This defensive battle was not how the Super Bowl was
supposed to pan out because both teams were in the top five offensive teams for the season and the match had the first, being the Patriots, and the third-best, being the Rams, offensives in total points within the postseason matches. Even with all this, the Super Bowl on Sunday evening proved that the old mantra of ‘defences win championships’ still rings very true and, despite the scoring rampage that was seen throughout the season, the league has not completely changed to this high point scoring, offensive rampage that it looked like it was heading towards.
Lorie Shaull
SPORT
Alan Spink
08.02.2019
Lockdown 2019 Preview
Munrow Arena Hosts Double-Header Derby as Lions Welcome Warwick Sport Writer Luke Bosher previews the sixth annual Lockdown event, which this year will see both the University of Birmingham Men’s and Women’s 1st teams take on rivals University of Warwick tomorrow doubt be keen to put things right in front of a bigger crowd against Warwick. They will gain confidence from the fact that they beat this Warwick team 73-62 on the road, a standout performance from this season.
Luke Bosher Sport Writer
“They beat this Warwick team 73-62 on the road, a standout performance from this season”
Alan Spink
Lockdown 2018 Tomorrow, the University will host its sixth annual basketball varsity series, and just the second at the new Sport and Fitness Centre. This year, both the Men’s and Women’s 1st teams will face Warwick, and look to continue the 100% winning tradition from past Lockdowns. The Men’s 1sts have had a solid season so far, with a 50% record after six games in the Midlands 2A League with three wins and three defeats (as of 5th February). In their last home game, they suffered a narrow loss to Worcester, and will no
The players to keep an eye on will be Ollie Thomas, captain and veteran of the team, with his impressive handles and basketball IQ, and Temi Akinola, who ahead of his first Lockdown is averaging a double-double per game (over 10 points and 10 rebounds). The Women’s 1sts have had an impressive league season and currently sit on four wins from seven, two wins back from the top two in the Midlands 1A League. Their match tomorrow is a friendly on paper, but pride is on the line and expect nothing short of maximum effort from a team that has excelled so far this campaign. As ever, this Lockdown event will be packed full of entertainment on and off the court with performances, DJs, and prizes all to enjoy.
Interview with Women's Club Captain: Cara Sheppard Luke Bosher (LB) caught up with Women's Club Captain and 1st team regular, Cara Sherppard (CS), in the build up to the big event. LB: How are you feeling before Lockdown?
CS: At the moment, quite tense because there’s a lot to get sorted before the day, but we’re very excited. I think we are all quite hungry for it as basketball doesn’t get much attention for normal league games. LB: How are you personally coping with the additional organisational stress of the event? CS: It’s not easy, it’s quite stressful especially being a final year with deadlines. The prep for it is much more than people realise. There’s so many little things that really add up to a serious amount of work. I think when the day happens though, we’ll all feel absolutely amazing. LB: From a tactical perspective, are you approaching the game any differently to a regular league match? CS: We are really pushing for the same standard as any BUCS game. Just because it’s a ‘friendly’ for us, we still want to run our plays and play hard defense. On the day, it’s a bit of a different court set up, so we’ll probably get there early and shoot around, especially because we’re not used to playing in front of such a crowd. LB: Who’s in good form right now on your team? CS: Millie Harrison is always one to watch out for; amazing post player. Our captain Fay Solkhon too, she broke her ankle at the beginning of the season and hasn’t really been able to play so far so she’s hungry for her comeback. This is her fourth Lockdown as well so she’s used to the pressure. LB: What aspects of the Lockdown event can we look forward to? CS: I think the vibe is going to be incredible, we’ve got loads of societies coming down for entertainment and they were great last year. There’s going to be a live DJ as well, so the whole place should be buzzing.
Women’s 1sts vs Warwick - 4PM Tip-Off Men’s 1sts vs Warwick - 6PM TipOff Munrow Arena Tickets available on the door or from www.sportandfitness.bham. ac.uk/events Courtside Seats: £5 Bleacher Seats: £3 (Includes entertainment from Hip Hop Society, Bhangra Society & BUDS)
INSIDE SPORT:
Blues Victory
38
Dublin Drubbing
39