Redbrick - Issue 1471

Redbrick Issue 1471, Vol. 80

Monday 19th September 2016

FREE

Photosoc: Michael Jevon

Welcome to BIRMINGHAM Balint Fรถldesi

Redbrick

The Official University of Birmingham Student Newspaper, est. 1936 Julia Yan

Giulia Bardelli

Meet the Sections: an insight into each section

Welcome Page 3

Redbrick Music rates the best club nights Brum has to offer

Redbrick Food: Spend, Save & Splurge; where to wine and dine

Redbrick Sport introduces you to sports at University level

Music Page 4

Film Page 6

Sport Page 8

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FRESHERS' '16

Monday 19th September 2016

redbrick.me

Redbrick welcomes you to the University of Birmingham Letter from the Editor When I first started at university I joined loads of different societies, yet committed to very few. I was overwhelmed - there was so much to do, and only three years to do it! Out of all of the advice I received about starting university, one piece stood out: throw yourself in. Go for it. But by the end of my first year, I was a member of many and felt I belonged to none. Sure, I made friends, but I had yet to find a society that I could invest myself in.

I almost didn’t go to my first Redbrick meeting. It was the beginning of second year, and I was tired of joining societies, instead deciding to focus a little more on my degree. I knew that I didn’t want to be a journalist, or a writer, so what was the point?

I’m so grateful that my friend Giulia, who was then an editor of the Life & Style section, dragged me along. Just over a year later, I’m the editor of one of the best student newspapers in the country.

Journalism doesn’t have to be your passion to join Redbrick.

All you need is enthusiasm. If you want to write about a topic,

we will help you - there is a section for everyone. If you want to write it, we want to publish it. We love hearing your pitches!

Any student at the university can write for us, so don’t be put off if you don’t take English, or History, or Politics - we have members from every discipline.

You can join as many sections as you like once you are a member.

Once you are in a section, our editors and committee will endeavour to support you. We’ll help you build up a portfolio; we’ll endorse your press accreditation applications; we’ll send you to all kinds of events, from lectures, to festivals, to conventions. There are limitless possibilities of what you can achieve with Redbrick.

Having articles published is an asset to your CV. It shows that you take an interest in your subject beyond what is required of you academically. I think it also helps you to remember why you chose your subject in the first place; sometimes, the intensity of academia can leave you less than enamoured with your course.

Joining Redbrick is also an opportunity to learn so many new skills, from editing, to interview tech-

niques, to using our design software.

Above all, you’ll make so many friends through Redbrick.

Come and join us for a social, and you’ll see why. Our team is loud and large, and we always want new members. We are often looking to recruit new editors also, so there is plenty of opportunity for promotion within the paper.

This issue is just a miniature paper, but I hope it samples what we can do at Redbrick. We’re 80 years old this year, something we are enormously proud of. Here is to the next 80 years.

I hope to see you around the office soon.

From the dungeons we salute you,

LIFE & STYLE

MUSIC

Fierce and Finished: Freshers' survival guide

The best nights out in Brum

FOOD

SPORT

Anna Griffiths, Editor

Save, spend and splurge: a foodie's guide to Brum

An introduction to sport at university

In this edition

Bigger, better socials

Alessandro Mazza Photography

Redbrick is one of the largest societies in the university. Our members come from all walks of life, study different disciplines, and have a variety of interests. This is why many of the socials we run are done internally within a section. You don’t have to be a member of that section to attend the social though - in fact, we encourage you to attend as many as you can!

Highlights of last years socials include Food section's socials to Digbeth Dining Club street parties, Music's live and

Redbrick Editorial Team Editor Anna Griffiths editor@redbrickonline.co.uk

Deputy Editors Harry Turner Imogen Lancaster deputy@redbrickonline.co.uk

Print Editor Gabriella Marcucci print@redbrickonline.co.uk

Digital Editor Conrad Duncan digital@redbrickonline.co.uk

Lead Developer Andreea Gheorghe developer@redbrickonline.co.uk

Marketing Secretary William Baxter marketing@redbrickonline.co.uk

Social Secretary Hannah Coles social@redbrickonline.co.uk

News Editors Beriwan Ceren Grace Duncan Gregory Robinson news@redbrickonline.co.uk

Music Editors Phil Jones Greg Woodin Daniella Bassett Holly Carter

Sci&Tech Editors Ellen Daugherty Kara Watson James Petit tech@redbrickonline.co.uk

music@redbrickonline.co.uk

Comment Editors Joe Goodsall Keah Forino Joseph Aamina Siddiqi comment@redbrickonline.co.uk

Culture Editors Imogen Tink Sophie Taylor Olivia Boyce

Film Editors Alex McDonald George Griffths Joe Ryan film@redbrickonline.co.uk

culture@redbrickonline.co.uk

Travel Editors Carys Bedford Delfina Rainoldi Sophie Braybrook

Life&Style Editors Zoe Screti Kamila Geremek Sophie Kesterton Nia Roberts

Television Editors James Tyson Lara Billington Tamsin Hackett

lifestyle@redbrickonline.co.uk

Food Editors Tasha Smart Phoebe Radford food@redbrickonline.co.uk

Sport Editors Nicola Kenton Dan Steeden Harry Wilkinson Nancy Frostick

careers@redbrickonline.co.uk

Features Editor Gabriella Marcucci print@redbrickonline.co.uk

Redbrick Guild of Students Edgbaston Park Road Birmingham B15 2TT 0121 251 2462

editor@redbrickonline.co.uk

Redbrick is printed through www.mortonsprint.com 01507 523 456 To advertise in Redbrick, get in touch with marketing@redbrickonline.co.uk or visit www.redbrick.me/advertise-with-redbrick for more details, and to see our rate card.

sport@redbrickonline.co.uk

Designed and typeset by Redbrick Copyright (C) Redbrick 2015

Gaming Editors James Lentschner James Marvin Ben Musgrove

The views expressed in Redbrick do not necessarily reflect those of the editors, the Guild or the publishers. If you find an error of fact in our pages, please write to the editor.

Our policy is to correct mistakes promptly in print and to apologise where appropriate. We reserve the right to edit any article, letter or email submitted for publication.

travel@redbrickonline.co.uk

tv@redbrickonline.co.uk

Careers Editor Lael Hardtman

unsigned music nights, Film's film nights, our 80th anniversary celebration (pictured left) and house parties.

This year we’d like to make socials more inclusive, so we’ll be running society-wide socials, organised by the committee rather than any one section.

If club nights, bar crawls, bowling, brunch, meals out, pub quizzes, sports challenges, band nights, film nights and day trips appeal, then join our Facebook group, Redbrick Socials, for more details.

gaming@redbrickonline.co.uk

FRESHERS' '16

Monday 19th September 2016

redbrick.me

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Meet the sections...

A sneak preview into what all of our eleven sections get up to, and where you can get in contact

Alessandro Mazza Photography

NEWS

FILM

GAMING

This section is for all writers, reporters and photographers.

We cover news that affects all students at the university. If you're unsure how to write a news story, don't let that hold you back - we'll give you all the help you need!

From the latest blockbuster to the newest indie flick, the Oscars to the BAFTAs, here at Film we review it all. If you love movies or you're obssessed with Hollywood gossip, this is the place for you!

The latest gaming news, reviews, discussion and events, from the student perspective.

Your Editors: Ben Musgrove James Lentschner

Your Editors: Alex McDonald

Your Editors: Beriwan Ceren

James Marvin

George Griffiths Grace Duncan Gregory Robinson Join our Facebook group: Redbrick News 2016-17 Twitter: @redbricknews

LIFE & STYLE Be part of one of the most dynamic, funny, risque, and relaxed sections of Redbrick!

We at Life & Style deal with fashion, beauty, health, sex and relationships. Of course, we are all for a bit of feisty debate on a huge range on topical issues it's definitely not all make-up and clothes!

FOOD

Joe Ryan Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Film Contributors Twitter: @RedbrickFilm

We write about everything food and drink related, from recipes, restaurant reviews, and the latest food news! If you fancy yourself a foodie, then we are your section!

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Gaming Contributors Twitter: @RedbrickGames

Your Editors: Tasha Smart Phoebe Radford

Your Editors: Zoe Screti

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Food Contributors

Kamila Geremek

Twitter: @RedbrickFood

Sophie Kesterton Nia Roberts

COMMENT

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Life&Style Contributors Twitter: @redbricklife

The home of debate, conversation and free speech at Redbrick.

Have an opinion on something?

If you're passionate about it, we are too!

TRAVEL SCIENCE & TECH

Redbrick Travel is the place for the latest destination articles, travel tips, and more! Even if you're not travelling anytime soon, tell us about past adventures!

Your Editors: Carys Bedford

Your Editors: Keah Forino Joseph

SPORTS

Delfina Rainoldi Joe Goodsall Sophie Braybrook Aamina Siddiqi Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Travel Contributors

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Comment Contributors Twitter: @redbrickcomment

CULTURE The place for events, theatre, shows, previews and opinion pieces on all things arts, from across the university and wider Birmingham!

MUSIC If reviewing the latest tracks to the best throwbacks appeals to you, then Music is your section! We arrange free gig tickets, as well as one-off interviews with the best artists, from the likes of Izzy Bizu, to Wolf Alice, to Bloc Party.

Your Editors: Phil Jones

Reporting on the latest breakthrough technologies and scientific advances in the modern world. If you have a passion for all things technical, or even if you're just interested in the newest iPhone, this is the section for you.

The winners of SPA Journalism's Best Uni Sports Coverage 2015, we cover sports ranging from the university, to the local area, as well as to the nation at large.

Your Editors: Ellen Daugherty

Your Editors: Nicola Kenton

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Sci and Tech Contributors

James Petit Kara Watson

Twitter: @redbricktravel

TELEVISION

Dan Steeden Twitter: @redbricktech

For all things TV - from Game of Thrones to EastEnders to Love Island. We welcome all types of articles - whether reviews, in-depth features, or debates!

Harry Wilkinson

Twitter: @redbricksport

Nancy Frostick Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Sports Contributors

CAREERS Redbrick's newest section, discovering the latest jobs and career trends through interviews, with the people that have made it happen.

YourEditors: Imogen Tink

Greg Woodin

Your Editors: Tamsin Hackett

Sophie Taylor

Daniella Bassett

James Tyson

Olivia Boyce

Holly Carter

Lara Billington

Your Editor: Lael Hardtman

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Culture Contributors

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Music Contributors

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick TV Contributors

Join our Facebook group: Redbrick Careers Contributors

Twitter: @redbrickculture

Twitter: @RedbrickMusic

Twitter: @redbricktv

Twitter: @redbrickcareers

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TELEVISION FRESHERS' '16

Monday 19th September 2016

@redbrickpaper @redbricktv

Redbrick Music’s Freshers’ Guide The writers of Redbrick Music recommend the best nights out in Birmingham All Years Leaving Festival All Years Leaving is an annual weekend festival hosted by This is TMRW at the Hare & Hounds, based around showcasing the best and brightest up and coming bands from around the country.

Occurring over two days on the 21st and 22nd of October, this year’s festival boasts an impressive line-up, with the likes of Genghar, The Big Moon, Happyness and Yak playing throughout the weekend.

Weekend passes range from £20 to £25, so this festival really is your cheapest way of checking out and showing your support to the best young bands across the country. Cheap prices and fantastic bands – seems like a win-win to me.

Phil Jones

try’s second city. Already they’ve put together shows with acts like Bonobo, Floating Points, and Jamie XX, and this year’s billing looks set to be as ambitious as ever - starting with a double bill of Motor City Drum Ensemble and Move D this October. From critically-acclaimed heavyweights like Ben UFO and Jackmaster, to dubstep legend Mala and reliable crowd-pleasers like Horse Meat Disco and Giles Peterson, Leftfoot have staked a credible claim to providing something for everyone. For anyone with more than a passing interest in dance music, their events are not to be missed.

Conrad Duncan Itchy Feet Are you sick of hearing the latest noise from Justin Bieber or Nicki Minaj being blasted in every club you walk into? Are you the kind of person who looks back on photos from the 1950s, and wishes you lived in the era of the Pink Ladies and the T Birds? Well, Itchy Feet could be just the night for you! A nationwide event, Itchy Feet comes to Birmingham around once every term, with chosen venues ranging from the Jam House to Lab 11 in Digbeth.

A mix of DJs and a live band serve the best tunes from yesteryear, playing a mix of rock and roll, doo-wop, soul and Motown.

Their tagline is ‘hear something new’; whether you’re looking for a night with a difference or are already well acquainted with the tunes of Elvis Presley, Itchy Feet is always loads of fun. Put on your blue suede shoes and grab a ticket for the next event!

Paige Tracey Tektu Fortnightly house and techno night at the Rainbow Venues in Digbeth. Run by students for students, Tektu is an intimate mid-

The Sunflower Lounge If live music is your thing then the Sunflower Lounge is definitely a place to be checked out.

It's a kooky late night bar just around the corner from New Street Station opposite Snobs (making it an excellent venue for pre-drinks), where you can chill inside or out with a pint whilst enjoying great music from the DJs, or catching a local/rising band for super cheap. They host gigs every couple of days, so whether its a weekday or weekend sesh, you'll be sorted with a new band to discover. Having previously played host to the likes of Wolf Alice, Peace and Yak, the Sunflower Lounge is the perfect place to catch a smaller band in an intimate venue before they get huge. Upcoming gigs include Estrons, Babeheaven and The Shimmer Band.

Georgie Deaville Leftfoot Not one single night, but a brand that’s come to be a reliable mark of quality in Birmingham. Since 2000, Leftfoot have been committed to bringing underground and alternative music to the coun-

week rave like no other, showcasing the best local DJs from the second city’s five universities.

Resembling a house party that has outgrown the house environment, this alternative Thursday night offering is a welcome diversion from Snobs - which you’re bound to get sick of eventually.

With tickets available from just £1 and themes ranging from the Hawaiian shirts and mini skirts of ‘Vice City’ to straight-up disco nostalgia, Tektu is a laidback, spontaneous party set in Birmingham’s creative quarter.

Greg Woodin The Hare and Hounds Kings Heath For those wishing to escape the hectic scenes of Birmingham’s larger music venues, look no further than the Hare and Hounds in Kings Heath. Located around a ten-minute taxi ride from campus, the venue is a huge hit with students wanting to see inexpensive gigs from small, yet popular indie groups. The usual place of choice for Birmingham gig promoters This is TMRW, past performers at the Hounds have included Eagulls, Hinds, Girlpool, Chastity Belt and a DJ set from Mike Skinner (of The Streets). In September you can catch Colleen Green, with other upcoming show highlights including The Wytches and Girl Band. Grab a drink from the pub downstairs and head up for an authentic night of live music, which is sure to showcase the best of the industry’s rising talent.

Paige Tracey The Night Owl If blues, soul and rock & roll is your kind of sound and you can’t wait till Itchy Feet rolls around, then the Night Owl is your kind of venue. Featuring an eclectic range of DJs and nights ranging from Northern Soul on Fridays to a Summer of Love theme on Sundays, if you feel you were born into the wrong generation then the Night Owl has something for you. Boasting free entry before 10pm on Fridays and Saturdays, The Night Owl has you covered for all those weeks when the thought of the RnB room of Fab makes your soul shudder. Situated in the ubercool area of Digbeth, the venue is a short walk away from great pubs like the Old Crown and so your pre-drinks will be sorted too.

Phil Jones

FRESHERS' '16

Monday 19th September 2016

Entertainment in Birmingham

@redbrickpaper

05

A City of Culture Olivia Boyce Culture Editor

Birmingham is a city with a wealth of cultural experiences and venues, so students can often find themselves spoilt for choice when looking for things to see or do. Below are just some of the things on offer for students in Birmingham and the surrounding area.

Electric House

George Griffiths ‘Cinematic Time Machine,’ a Film Editor

Officially the world’s oldest working cinema, the Electric has been at the heart of film in Birmingham for generations, and still continues to run today. With its throwback aesthetic (including sofa’s instead of seats and even a waiter service available should you feel the need for a serving or twelve of popcorn) the Electric truly is a cinema like no other.

As well as showcasing the newest films in cinema, the Electric is also currently running the hugely successful

year-long event where each month of the year plays host to a decade of film; where the films screened are either made in or set around the decade in question. The event has seen the Electric screen both major releases and art-house curiosities. For the month of August, some of the film’s screened included seminal classics The Breakfast Club and Ferris Bueller’s Day Off as well as Akira Kurosawa’s Ran and Terry Gilliam’s Brazil.

With all this in mind, the Electric is the perfect place to satisfy your passion for bigbudget epics and your curiosity for long-forgotten oddities. And what better way to soak up the unique atmosphere of this cultural landmark than to visit reviewing something for Redbrick Film?

The Hippodrome Birmingham Hippodrome is renowned as a fantastic regional venue, often playing host to touring productions of musicals such as Wicked and Mamma Mia. Upcoming productions include the Mandela Trilogy, a celebration of Nelson Mandela’s life (20th/21st of September), and Blood Brothers (10th to the 22nd of October).

The REP A venue with a versatile pro-

gramme and several performance spaces, the REP is a great place for an evening at the theatre, featuring everything from Shakespeare to brand new and award-winning productions that are created right here in Birmingham. Upcoming shows include Oscar Wilde’s classic play, The Importance of Being Ernest (until September 24th) as well as the UK premiere of The Exorcist (October 21st – 5th November).

The RSC With the town of Stratford-UponAvon just a train journey away, it’s easy to experience one of the Royal Shakespeare Company’s legendary productions. Upcoming shows include Aphra Behn’s The Rover, The Two Noble Kinsmen, and King Lear.

The Barber Institute Just one of multiple venues on campus, the Barber hosts an impressive gallery of art, including works by Monet, Turner and Renoir, and also hosts regular recitals that are often free of charge for students.

The Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery Located just minutes from New Street Station, this museum and gallery hosts a diverse collection of art pieces, as well as exhibitions on the history of Birmingham. It’s also free to enter, making it a great choice for a day in the city.

Your Freshers’ Survival Guide Life & Style Editor

1 Find the Freebies Freshers' Fair is full of people giving away free stuff. From pizza to pens and jelly beans to magazines, so adopt the Pokémon spirit and catch ‘em all! You are a student now after all - freebies are your friends!

3 Find the Best Events Unless you have super powers, you will not make it through every freshers' event, so find out where the best parties and nights out are and stick to those. You don’t want to miss the best night of the week because you’re too worn out or hungover to want to go.

Comedy – Birmingham also plays host to a great number of comedians, with many stopping off at the Town Hall or Glee Club. These include the likes of Ed Byrne, Sarah Millican, Sandi Toksvig and Jimmy Carr.

Workout motivation doesn’t come much better than the Olympics! Seeing Team GB’s incredible successes has definitely inspired us to hit the gym!

4 Do Your Homework You might not want to think about

Velvet

it, but Freshers' Week will come to an end and you’ll soon be getting stuck into your course. Find out where your classes are in advance so you don’t get lost on the day, and get hold of your key textbooks. A little preparation now saves a lot of stress later!

Set to be one of the biggest autumn/winter trends this year, velvet is already making headway in the wardrobes of the rich and famous.

Blake Lively, Keira Knightly and Lady Gaga have already stunned in this fabric, showing that velvet is not just for Christmas.

Avocados

Week, but just taking the chance and striking up a conversation can make all the difference. You never know, that random person you start chatting to might just become your uni bae.

Whilst this superfood has taken the world by storm, it’s popularity has threatened Mexican forests. Rising demand has lead farmers to destroy pine forests to make room for more avocados. This has left a bitter taste in our mouths.

Zoe Screti

6 Explore Make the most of your day time during Freshers' Week, because as soon as term begins you'll be busy with lectures. Explore your new surroundings, whether that is the Vale Village, the university campus, or Birmingham as a whole. Some city highlights include the Bullring, the Library of Birmingham, Cadbury World and the Sea Life Centre.

Dance – With the Birmingham Royal Ballet staging many successful productions every year, and larger venues attracting a great many touring companies, there are fantastic dance shows all over the city. Of note is the IDFB, a dance festival that showcases a brilliant programme of dance from all over the world, taking place in the city every two years.

Olympic Spirit

2 Be Sociable 5 Be Talkative Getting to know your flatmates is Everyone is nervous during Freshers' key to starting the year well but there are also a number of other ways to be social. Follow social media accounts related to the university, sign up to societies and attend events. Getting to know people before your course starts really helps to make that first week less daunting.

Performance Poetry/Spoken Word events – Birmingham has a fantastic performance poetry scene, with nights like Hit the Ode and Howl a real treat for anybody looking for an enjoyable evening out.

FIERCE

Redbrick Life & Style dish out their top tips to survive your first week in Birmingham Zoe Screti

Other things to look out for include:

FINISHED Giulia Bardelli

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FRESHERS' '16

Monday 19th September 2016

@redbrickpaper

Interview: Dane Baptiste

Paige Tracey TV Critic

Though not quite a household name yet, recognition of Dane Baptiste’s comedy stylings is certainly set to increase. With the pilot for his new show Sunny D hitting BBC 3 this Autumn, Britain may have just found its answer to Dane’s biggest idol: Chris Rock. Dane plays himself in a show surrounding the frustrations of living in his parent’s box room, which he shares with his mum’s cleaning equipment.

Though it is not clear how much

of Sunny D is strictly biographical, its content is sure to be borne out of the many struggles Dane has faced growing up. As he chats to me from across the phone in his native East London, he provides a true snapshot of life in urban Britain. Apologising for the sound of people fighting in the background, my interview with the former Live at the Apollo comedian is one that is raw and unabridged.

Baptiste elaborates on an interview he previously gave to The Guardian, in which he exclaimed 'if we lived in an equal

society, I wouldn’t have to do comedy.' 'If I was asked what equal opportunity I would like as a black male,' Dane explains to me, 'it wouldn’t be comedy.

People may say that I’ve obviously had the opportunity to do stand up for a living, but essentially that was something the circumstances of my life forced me into. I’d rather just be treated equally in society as a whole, and have the opportunities any normal person wants: equal employment, equal treatment by law enforcement and good access to medical care. Comedy would

never have been a full-time priority or job for me if there weren’t these other barriers I have had to face. I’d much rather be doing stand-up as a hobby, in addition to having a stable job with a good income and a house of my own.'

It’s clear that life’s curve balls, particularly in relation to race, are what drives Dane to take to the stage. 'As my dad always says: everyone has a story to tell. My cousin had a normal car and he was never stopped by the police.

Then when he bought a nice car he was stopped four times by the police. They said to him (and I quote) “how does a boy like you drive a car like this?” It really frustrates me, as stories like that show we are still not completely equal in terms of race in this society. My cousin earnt that car, he worked hard to pay for it, yet there’s still this suspicion surrounding black people. No one ever questions how the 1% obtain their wealth, even after its been shown they don’t always do so completely legally! So I definitely use comedy as a way to rationalise problems and frustrations like that. So much of my material uses social commentary; if there was no inequality in society, I’d have nothing left to talk about. In a world without racism, my comedy would be obsolete.'

I can sense Dane hasn’t strayed far from his humble beginnings.

Upon my asking of when he believes he rose to prominence, he brushes the question off with a laugh. 'I definitely don’t think I’ve rose to prominence yet! I definitely wouldn’t claim to be on that level. If I had to pinpoint what moment changed the path of my career, I’d say the Foster’s

Edinburgh Comedy Awards, where I won best newcomer. I mean, I don’t even know what you’d define as famous anymore.

Some “famous” people are millionaires; others are out on the streets drinking (in reference to reality shows like Geordie Shore)!

However, I’d never want it to mean anything more profound than me being an entertainer, and making people laugh.'

While Sunny D will soon be released, Dane will also be continuing his already successful Reasonable Doubts stand-up tour.

He brings the show to the Birmingham Glee Club on November 25th, along with plenty of other dates in the Midlands.

'Obviously I’d love people to come along,' says Dane. 'If people like Chris Rock’s kind of humour, they will enjoy it. Obviously I don’t imitate Rock; I have my own style. However as well as being funny, his comedy is often very poignant. I want to take that, and bring to light many issues that we have here in the UK as well as the US, but which we don’t always acknowledge. I want my show to break down taboos, I believe there should be no taboos in comedy. A lot of my peers will say “I can’t talk about this in my act, because I’m not this,” but you limit yourself so much as a performer! Being able to empathise with people, and see the world outside of what’s below your nose; that’s what makes you truly excel as a comedian. That’s what I hope to deliver on my show and in my tour.'

Sunny D launches on BBC 3 in September.

Five Shows to Watch with Your New Flat Tamsin Hackett TV Editor @TamsinAilishh

The Ellen Show Ellen came to British TV earlier this year and it has not disappointed. When you become a fresher, daytime telly is a must!

Your daily schedule has gone from a seven hours to two or three if you’re a lucky Arts' student, so you’re going to need something to fill up that extra time. Ellen is up there with the best daytime viewings, so tune in to see your favourite celebs chatting, dancing and having pie thrown in their faces!

The Great British Bake Off This show is perfect to sit and watch with your new flatmates! A lot of you will have already started

this series at home so can carry on together, while it's also still easy for Bake Off newbies to dip in to! Make this show a weekly activity every Wednesday with your new flatmates.

Friends Almost everyone has seen and loves Friends, right? As a hugely popular show it’s a great choice for you and your flatmates to watch together even if you all have different tastes! A show like Friends will have you laughing together and debating the greatest Friends moments in no time.

Stranger Things Netflix's latest smash hit is a must watch for all students! This sci-fi thriller would be great to watch as a flat, or better yet, to binge on a

Sunday after spending your Saturday night in Fab! With its fantastic cast of characters, its twisting and turning narrative, and plenty of genuinely terrifying moments, Stranger Things will keep your block glued to the screen for hours.

Try something new!

Why not get your flat to start watching something new? Start a series like Game of Thrones, Orange is the New Black or even something older like Gilmore Girls or The Inbetweeners and watch it together. Having a regular activity to do will help you spend time together and get to know each other. It works even better if no one has seen the programme before!

Students, save your money!

James Tyson TV Editor @jamestyson06

Whether you are streaming live or watching programmes on demand, you now need a valid TV license – regardless of whether you’re watching on your laptop or an actual television. Watching without is a criminal offence which

could result in you being prosecuted and fined a hefty £1000, plus any legal costs; not ideal for any student.

With this in mind, there is a useful service which goes unnoticed by many students here at Birmingham. The University actually provides all its students with access to a service called BoB, which offers on demand TV and

radio service online. Though primarily for educational purposes, the service can also be just as easily and reasonably used for the recreational too.

BoB's coverage includes permanent archives of content from major freeview channels including BBC1 London; BBC2; ITV London; Channel 4; More4; Channel 5 and also many major

radio stations. This archiving of programmes means you will still be able to access shows long after they have expired on the likes of iPlayer or other catch-up services.

The sign up process as a university student is quick, simple and can be done in under a minute!

The site can be accessed from a desktop as well as on iOS and Android devices.

Whether you’re trying to convince yourself that you’re revising during the long exam season

by watching a slightly related programme, or you just want to catch up who had a soggy bottom on last night’s Bake Off, this service provides it all. The lengthy list of shows on offer at your fingertips is all for free as part of your university fees – so don't forget about it when you're searching for a way to watch your favourite shows during your time here!

This service can be accessed by going to: https://learningonscreen.ac.uk/ondemand, and signing up using your UoB account.

FRESHERS' '16

Monday 19th September 2016

@redbrickpaper

07

Save, Spend, Splurge Food Editors Phoebe and Tasha give their top tips for arriving Freshers!

Wine...

Save The Figure of Eight The Figure of Eight is a Wetherspoons on Broad Street, conveniently right next door to Players Bar, making it the perfect pub for a Stupid Tuesday pres.

Wetherspoons are famed for their cheap litre pitchers, and often offer a multi-buy promotion, although prices can vary between locations. Pitchers come in flavours to suit everyone, although you certainly have a favourite and a most hated. Purple Rain is definitely a love/hate creation, while the Sex on the Beach is a universal crowd pleaser.

Aside from their cocktails, Spoons always do a good deal on shots, meaning you can have a last round before heading down Broad Street to an inevitably more expensive club.

The Goose Selly is loved by all, not least because of the great value for money offered at the pubs and bars along Bristol Road. We recommend the Goose for their range of cocktails, with eight

to choose from in either a glass or pitcher serving (£4.95/£9.45). The pub setting and close proximity to student accommodation makes the Goose a perfect place for pres, especially with their offer of two bombs for just £4 – there are even five different types of bombs to choose!

Spend Coast to Coast Centrally located on Broad Street, Coast to Coast is an American themed restaurant and bar with an extensive cocktail menu. They offer a range of Margaritas, Daiquiris Martinis, and other Classics, like Mojitos and Iced Teas, all for £6.95. If you fancy something different, Coast to Coast also have a selection called ‘Something Fun’, which includes Tequila Sunrise, Pina Colada, Cherry Cola and more, again all at £6.95. If you’re heading out for cocktails after dinner, why not try one of their dessert-inspired cocktails from the ‘After Dinner’ selection? The only cocktails to stray above the £6.95 mark are the Sparkling Cocktails and some of their American Classics, with the

most expensive being £8.65.

With most of their menu priced at a very reasonable £6.95, and mocktails at £3.65, you can enjoy a few cocktails without worrying about straying into your overdraft.

Buffalo and Rye Buffalo and Rye is an American themed bar and restaurant on Bennett’s Hill in central Birmingham, a short walk from New Street station. For something different, try their diner-style milkshakes with an alcoholic twist; the Maple and Bourbon (£7.00) is a simple but delicious mix of Jim Bean, maple syrup, and vanilla ice cream. In addition to this, there are classic cocktails like a Rum Punch (£7.00) and the Manhattan (£8.50).

Long Refreshers include the very American Kool-Aid Cooler (£6.00), a twist of strawberry kool-aid, Absolut mandarin, and peach liqueur. Those with more sophisticated tastes might enjoy the Mint Julep (£7.00) from the Shorts menu, Maker’s Mark bourbon with mint and sugar over crushed ice. Buffalo and Rye are independent, and offer 15% off the bill from Sunday to Thursday with an Independent Birmingham

card. They also offer a Happy Hour, with selected cocktails only £4.50 from 4-7pm Monday to Saturday, and all day Sunday.

Splurge Lost and Found Lost and Found boasts one of the most beautiful interiors of any restaurant and bar in Birmingham. Inspired by Victorian times, the bar has high ceilings, pillars, tiled floors, and a contrasting library and botanical garden theme to its seated areas.

Serving a selection of oldfashioned Classic Cocktails (£6.95£7.95), and indulgent Sparkling cocktails (£8.25£8.95), Lost and Found also has a ‘Lost’ menu of drinks, and a ‘Found’ selection. From Monday to Friday, all Found cocktails are £5 between 5pm and 8pm. This includes their signature concoction, the Ms H. G. Watson, a mix of gin, blackberry pureé, cloudy apple juice, lavender syrup, lemon juice, and soda. Normally, all cocktails from the Found menu range between £7.25-£7.95,

as do the Lost cocktails, many of which are twists on wellknown cocktails.

If you are spoilt by choice, there is a handy taste map to help you decide, showing the drinks from strong to light, and sweet to dry.

Centrally located, you can find Lost and Found on Bennett’s Hill, a short walk from New Street, just before Victoria Square.

Jekyll and Hyde Jekyll and Hyde is a quirky Victorian themed bar in Birmingham’s Gun Quarter.

They offer one of the longest and varied cocktail menus in Birmingham, with most ranging between £5.50 and £8.50. Historic inspiration is evident in the ‘Colonies and Commodities’ range of drinks, which reflect nineteenth century trade routes in the Caribbean and Far East, as seen in the Rumbullion (£7.00) with Appleton VX rum and spices. If you’re with friends, sharers start at £15 for two people, all the way up to £50 for 5-6 people. Jekyll and Hyde are independent, and offer 20% off all food from Monday to Friday with an independent Birmingham card.

...and Dine Save Handmade Burger Company Just a short walk down the canal, it can be found in Brindley Place – one of the key places to find numerous restaurants. This place is great to go when starting off with your new flat as it has something for everyone with its endless variety of good quality burgers, and, moreover, it is rather cheap. With it offering 15% discount during the week, the burgers ranging from £7-£10 are affordable for everyone, and amazingly on a Monday they double the discount to 30% off for students! This makes the burger plus chips a bargain.

A lot could be said for all of their burgers, and having gone with 15 block-mates

and not heard a single complaint I would say it’s a safe bet for a social meal.

For all the meat eaters a key recommendation would be to try the ‘Slow and Low’ pulled pork burger, a more recent addition to their menu.

And for any vegetarians, the sweet potato and bean burger is the one, with an accompanying of mango and ginger salsa, it is the most flavourful veggie burger I have found.

Spend Wagamama Also found in Brindley Place, or in the Bullring, Wagamamas is a great place

to go for lunch or for dinner and holds a wide selection of food. It is slightly more expensive with dishes ranging from £8 to £14, yet they are not stingy with their portions. It is the kind of place you could visit multiple times and try something new every time without disappointment.

A classic recommendation would be to go for the Katsu curry, which I think the majority of people would vouch for! In particular, try the yasai (vegetable) version, which includes butternut squash and sweet potato, a great combination. Most meals are full of vegetables so you can then feel justified having a dessert, and this should

undoubtedly be the white chocolate and ginger cheesecake, the ideal end to a great meal. Make sure you ask for your free green tea as well!

Splurge The New Inn The New Inn can be found in Harborne, not too far of a walk from the Vale, and is perfect for those wishing to celebrate with a nice meal or to just treat yourself to some highend food. Prices vary from £11 for a burger, all the way to £24 for a Ribeye steak – yet money

can be saved, with 20% off being offered to those owning an Independent Birmingham card!

This place is great for a nice evening out. The place is decorated as a rustic pub, but is new and modern with its classic pub dishes done to perfection. The winning dish has to be the sea bass with accompanying tomato dahl. It is priced at £14 and was an amazing dish for a oneoff treat. With the pub also offering a variety of interesting and creative cocktails – such as some based on children’s sweets – it is easy to have a classy and fun occasion.

Monday 19th September 2016

Sport at UoB

Redbrick Sport

thought about before - like Ultimate Frisbee, korfball and Aussie Rules.

The pinnacle of the year for Many sports clubs have a home sports clubs is to reach the finals on campus. The University of BUCS competitions, competes in the British whether that be the troU n i v e r s i t y phies in team sports Championships or BUCS nationals (BUCS) across lots weekend for more of these sports, with individually based some even having sports. The BUCS multiple teams.

Nationals is held Number of sports Redbrick provides in Sheffield and clubs you can an opportunity to provides an opporreport on this, whethtunity to watch and join er that be as an outreport on the highsider watching or from est level of university someone who trains with sport, as well as support a club themselves. It is also your team and interview an opportunity to learn about them afterwards too. sports that you might not have Another unique opportunity @redbricksport

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that is provided at Birmingham is the fact that we have an NBL (National Badminton League) team who are the current champions. The team combines stars of the successful uni badminton club along with players brought in, such as Fontaine Chapman.

There are two home games in a year - one per semester - which are held in the stunning Great Hall. The breathless nature of the NBL means you'll witness some great sport as well as possibly interviewing stars of Team GB - such as Chris Adcock.

Redbrick Sport offers a way of interacting with sports clubs on a level other than just competing, and can open your eyes to seeing sport in a different light altogether.

University of Birmingham’s Golden Girl: Lily Owsley Dan Steeden Sports Editor @DannySteedan

When it comes to considering sporting heroes from Rio, we at UoB need look no further than our own campus.

It is the 19th of August 2016, and Lily Owsley pokes in from close range to put GB ahead in what is their first ever Olympic final in women’s hockey. The match will go on to be one of the tensest sporting spectacles that I have seen for a long time, with more twists and turns than even Owsley’s own recent life.

Rewind two years, the 21-year-old University of

Birmingham student was winning silver in Glasgow at the 2014 Commonwealth Games.

This, the first of Owsley’s remarkable achievements, preceded her contraction meningitis, which put her in hospital while at the same time putting her participation in the European Championships in doubt.

Thankfully, she managed to recover swiftly, and went on to not only participate in the aforementioned 2015 European Championships, but also to win the gold in London, scoring in another tense final against the Dutch that went to penalties.

Her scintillating form throughout last year, and her incredible achievements in the

face of adversity, led her to be acknowledged as the global FIG Rising Star of 2015, before she set her sights on success in Rio. Fast forward again to Rio. The Olympic finalists, the Netherlands and Team GB, furiously attempt to wrestle the game from one another and the lead changes hands multiple times. It ends 3-3, the match goes to penalties, and a sense of déjà vu seemed to descend upon the pitch in Rio. GB have done this before, they can do it again. GB goalkeeper Maddie Hinch makes some incredible saves and GB win it; they are Olympic champions. Lily Owsley is an Olympic gold medallist. Their gold is

hopefully the first of many more to come.

From opening the scoring for Team GB in the tournament to opening the scoring in the final, Lily Owsley was instrumental to the success of the Team GB women’s hockey team. The entire team showed incredible skill, determination, athleticism, and conviction on their way to Olympic glory, and they are a testament to the power of hard work and belief.

Lily Owsley returns to UoB as an Olympic champion, and there is no doubt that there is much more success to come for Lily and Great Britain.

Congratulations!

New Feature at Redbrick Sport!

1) Join the Redbrick Sport fantasy football league! For the first time ever Redbrick Sport have a fantasy league for the Premier League and you can join. You can also look forward to weekly articles tracking the progress of the fantasy managers through the twists and turns of the best league in the world.

Details below: https://fantasy.premierleague.com League Name: Redbrick Sport League code: 477103142268 2) The Redbrick Sport Football Podcast is in its first season and will be available to listen to from early October. The Redbrick Sport team will be discussing all things football - the Premier League, the Football League, the progress of the Birmingham teams, and campus football. If you want to contribute, join Redbrick Sport and get involved!