Issue 124 - June 2012 by RWDmag

EDITOR’S LETTER cover images by Chris Davidson

As they say, all good things must come to an end. Although this isn’t really the actual end for me and RWD as I’ll still be part of the crew, it is my last as editor of this brilliant magazine. It’s been some seven years now (wow, time flies) and over the years I’ve had some amazing experiences; pool parties at the Game’s house, riding about New York in Diddy’s Maybach, drinking tea at 2am in Las Vegas with Lady Gaga, hitting Paris with Wiley, watching Kanye perform on a moonlit beach in the Bahamas with just 100-odd people and Jay-Z, hanging in the Bahamas (again) with a pre-fame Professor Green, and marvelling as he, Wretch, Example, Tinie, Chip, Ed Sheeran, Dynamo, Adam Deacon etc., etc., have all gone on to become some of the biggest stars in the UK. We’ve hosted some amazing parties with our mates Sheeran, Tinie, Yasmin, Wiley and many more, we’ve celebrated 10 years of being in the magazine game with DECA and this month, we top it all off with a pretty amazing three-CD Compilation, The Legacy. Wow. What more can I say! So, while I’ll still be here at RWD, I will be over on ‘the other side of the office’, developing brand relationships and working on a number of exciting projects we have coming up online and otherwise. Sorry, I’m sworn to secrecy for now. I’m leaving my beloved RWD in the hands of the ever-capable, utterly brilliant CEO of Fun, Danny Walker. This guy is actually like a brother to me; he’s one of the funniest people I know and he is going to take the mag to even bigger and better places with his sharp sense of humour, in-depth knowledge of all things geekery and a fascination for film, gadgets and sports. Although he does support Arsenal, so... yeah. For my very last issue, we’ve gone in hard on the incoming Euro 2012. Daniel Sturridge is on the cover while Aaron Lennon is very Upfront. There’s film and music too of course; ascending actor Ukwell Roach, newcomers Elro, Disclosure and Queen of Hearts and the brilliant Benga. We also head to Africa to discover what’s going on with the Afrobeats scene; D’Banj and Neptizzle fill us in. So, for now, that’s it. Farewell and all that. Thanks for being a huge part of this amazing journey of my time here at RWD...

RWD TEAM Editor Deputy Editor Senior Staff Writer Contributing Editor Online Editor Contributors

@hattiecollins @dannywalker1 @Nardenescott @chantellefiddy @tegosigel Francesca Dunn, Alex Johnson, Ralph Hardy, Natasha Parris, Danai Mavunga, Ricky Bains

Art Director Dacre J. Bracey Designer Sam Hardy Fashion Stylists Sophie Robinson, Neesha Sharma, Style Assistant Cheyenne Davide Illustrators Art Jaz, Jiro Bevis, David Flanagan Video Greg Bond, Felix Kemp Photographers James Pearson-Howes, Andres Reynega, Response London, Adrian Nettleship, Verena Stefanie Grotto, Simeon Coates, James Carnegie, Ravi Sidhu, Kieran Pharoah, Krzysztof Grychnik , Odi Caspi Publisher Sales Director Senior Sales Operations Thanks

Nigel Wells Paul LeFevre Matthew Richards Martin Ferguson Bob Austin

CONTACT RWD W107 Holywell Centre, 1 Phipp Street, London EC2A 4PS Tel: 020 3176 4299 Email: staff@rwdmag.com

@hattiecollins

CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH SAM HARDY 24 year-old Lewisham designer Sam joined RWD earlier this year after we lost Chidi to a better paid job in west London. Following three internships in New York and work at two fashion labels, he’s more than ready to take on the world of RWD. “The high point so far has been designing The Legacy cover.” The tea addicted Nas fan, who also has a fashion line (Decay) is enjoying his time... so far! “It does get a bit stressful at times, especially towards deadline, but it’s all good!” Check Wall01.com and Decaybysamhardy.com

RWD Magazine is published monthly by Rewind Creative Media Ltd. All material copyright (c). All rights reserved. This publication may not be reproduced or transmitted in any form, in whole or in part, without the express written permission of the publishers. RWD Magazine: 25p where sold Disclaimer: While every effort is made to ensure the information in this magazine is correct, changes can occur which affect the accuracy of copy, for which RWD holds no responsibility. The opinions of the contributors do not necessarily bear a relation to those of RWD Magazine or it’s staff and we disclaims liability for those impressions. Distributed nationally. RWD is a member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations

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CONTENTS ISSUE #124

FEATURES 52-55 COVER STORY: DANIEL STURRIDGE 56-58 CHARLOTTE JACKSON’S GUIDE TO EURO 2012 60-61 AARON LENNON 62-63 FAVOURITE THINGS: ABBEY CLANCY 64-65 MAYA JANE COLES 66-67 DISCLOSURE 68-69 AFROBEATS: D’BANJ, DJ NEPTIZZLE

REGULARS 8 -10 INBOX 12-13 CHECK IN, CHECK OUT 14 ENOUGH ALREADY: LACK OF GOAL-LINE TECHNOLOGY 16-18 ONE TO WATCH: ELRO, LUIS NANI, MESUT ÖZIL, QUEEN OF HEARTS, HYDRO74 22-23 RUN DEM CREW YOUNGERS 22-23 UPFRONT WITH: TOM CLEVERLEY 24-25 ABOUT TO BLOW: UKWELI ROACH

STYLE GUIDE 26-31 33-37 38-45 46-47 48 50-51

RWD THE LEGACY FASHION: REFLECT FASHION: STADIUM STATUS STYLE NEWS PALLADIUM REFRESHED: NICK SAGAR

71-73 74 76-77 78-79 80-81 82

FILMS GAMES CONVERSE BLOCK PARTY UNWIND WITH: BENGA CHARLOTTE DEVANEY FINAL WORD: MARCO MATERAZZI

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cover images by Chris Davidson

UNWIND

INBOX

For Chris’s Euro 2012 enthusiasm he wins an Xbox 360 4GB Console and Codemasters’ DiRT Showdown - the brand new dive in and drive adrenaline rush of speed and destruction from the multi-award winning DiRT series... Send your letters to: Attn. Editor, RWD Magazine, W107

LETTER OF THE MONTH:

Dear RWD, I can’t believe there are TWO major sporting events this summer, we usually have one or none to contend with but this year we have two. How cool is that? I’m not going to lie, like my CV, I will be taking days off to watch England games. Have you heard that Currys/ Comet/ PC World or someone like that are giving £10 off for every England goal? You know where I’m going with this. When we beat France 7-0 I’m running straight to buy my iPad 3. That RWD, is my plan. Chris F Thanks for contacting us Chris, very random though, very random indeed. I think we should all be thinking like this; days off work, loitering around Currys (or other members of the Dixons group) for money saving deals, hoping for the best instead of expecting the worst. Not sure about your prediction but love your enthusiasm. You’re a legend. So much so we’ve gone out of our way to make sure you’re well and truly hooked up. 8 / RWDMAG.COM

Hello, My name is Liv, 25 years old. I’m originally from south of France and moved to London last year. I’ve been passionate about BMX for a long time, which started with Fise in Montpellier, now I go to as many events as I can.I really like the mentality around it; the energy of the community and the friendly atmosphere. As a reader and rider, I enjoy your magazine and appreciate that’s it’s free. I would like to know if you are interested in having someone to introduce BMX to your magazine. I could go to the events; to take photos and write for your magazine. I’m not looking to gain money, just to do it as an exchange. Looking forward to hearing from you. Liv M Hey Liv, As soon as we need an in-depth BMX feature we’ll be coming for you. BMXing is still cool, right? Well am in Africa nd hv I follow RWD for past eight years now I remember u sent me some nice jacket and well I mail u today to ask u about something I need some things and I don’t know hw I can do it hope to hear form u thank u Zack ur friend Zakara Hey Zakara, Yes, we did send you some clothing didn’t we [check issue 60 AND issue 51, where our African buddy, Zack, was hooked up]. Ask away? In fact, wait a sec, we’re scared, what will you be asking asking? Hi, I would like to purchase four copies of your magazine with Cher Lloyd on the cover, can you please let me know how I can do this? Jeremy Purchase? Purchase? That’s not how we roll, send us your address and we’ll hook you up Jezza.

THE MONTH IN TWITPICS This month we go mega sporty with our Twitpic selection, #comeonEngland

@example With the main man @clint_ dempsey When it comes to football Example knows his stuff - despite supporting Fulham. Here he is ever-excited with American legend Clint ‘definitely should move clubs this summer’ Dempsey.

@RWDmag “Best wishes... ALAN SHEARER.” When it comes to England royalty there is NO bigger than Alan Shearer. Well, there’s the Queen but she can’t play footy for sh*t.

@TegoSigel “Man’s got the Wireless hookedup. #BigManTing” For those wanting to know the future, this is a flash forward to our online editor’s Euro 2012 setup. #smh

Holywell Centre, 1 Phipp Street, London, EC2A 4PS or staff@RWDmag.com

RWDMAG.COM RWDmag.com Users Cast Their Vote

@Kubskii “me?”

14%

Peter Crouch

Jermain Defoe

Each month we give you the chance to answer our Quick Question:

14%

Danny Welbeck

14%

Andy Carroll

Euro 2012: Who should play upfront to replace Rooney in the first two games?

Gabriel Agbonlahor

10%

Grant Holt

21%

@Forrest_John “Sturridge and Welbeck”

RWD POLLS EURO 2012: WILL ENGLAND GET KNOCKED OUT OF EURO 2012 ON PENALTIES?

Darren Bent

Daniel Sturridge

DOES ROY HODGSON LOOK LIKE AN OWL?

40% 37% 22% 38% YES, IT ALWAYS HAPPENS

63%

NO, WE’LL NOT EVEN LEAVE THE GROUP OR GET KNOCKED OUT STRAIGHT 10 / RWDMAG.COM

YES, HE DOES

NO, THAT IS NONSENSE

MAYBE, HE DOES HAVE AVIAN FEATURES TOP TWEETS @RWDMAG:

iamaflanagan.co.uk

QUICK QUESTION:

1 @LeighannaMusic: @RWDmag THANK U for ur #CallMeAPagan feat in May

issue. My mum’s a pagan & I’m sick of idiots using PAGAN as a derogatory term! Well done! x 2 @VanessaTheSats: LOVED doing this sesh for @RWDmag!! Hope you like! 3 @St_LafrraClair: on @rwdmag for the latest fresh news in the UK, missed a lot this and last week, catch up :(

CHECK IN/ CHECK OUT Treat your old man to something a little different this 17 June (aka Father’s Day) with our pick of the month’s finest in film, music, books, art and gadgets...

FILM

THE EXPENDABLES 2 Berrettas, berets and burly beefcakes. What more does daddy need?

MUSIC:

MARLEY Take your old man back to his youth with this compilation... Check Out... our album of the month. . If you and Daddy haven’t seen the film of the same name yet (shame on you), then make sure you cop this definitive disk dedicated to the reggae legend. Your dad will be able to reminisce over his ‘wacky-baccy days’ ‘slow-whineing your mum in the dance’ to Jammin’ and Stir It Up. Bob, you truly were a legend, RIP. Marley is out now

Check in... to your local fleapit this June. Why not bond with pops over some popcorn and a large bag of Revels and watch The Expendables 2 as Stallone, Statham, Lundgren, Jet Li and (this is weird) Liam Hemsworth (?) do boss Bruce Willis’s dirty work on a job that goes - you guessed it - terribly wrong. If you’ve seen the first one (the best/ worst film ever made), then you know what to expect; explosions of epic proportions, murders of unimaginable numbers and muscles of extreme size. We know we shouldn’t co-sign this flick, but we can’t help it. It looks as brilliant/ terrible as the first one. Big Poppa will love (probably). Out in August

TECH:

RWD MAG x GOOGLE CURRENTS Our new Google Currents edition is perfect for dads, football fans and content consumers on the move... Check Out... the new way to consume content. Using the free app you can get your RWD fix whether you’re on iOS or Android. Check RWDmag.com/googlecurrents for more

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DAD’S IN NUMBERS… Digital details on all things daddy

FIDDY’S WORLD OF WHATEVER BOOK:

SUGAR RAY LEONARD One of the greatest boxers to ever do it, The Big Fight celebrates life on and off the canvas with Sugar Ray... Check Out... this ideal read for the old man. Alongside Ali, Leonard is considered one of the best boxers of the last 50 years - even Cassius Clay calls him ‘legendary’. Pick up this book for pops and he can read not only about his incredible bouts with Roberto Duran and Marvin Hagler, but how years of abuse as a child saw him slide into a decline of fame, sex, drugs and drink in later years. The rise, fall and final redemption - it’s all in this brilliant book. Available now in all good bookshops. Eburypublishing.co.uk

The age of the youngest known dad in the UK. Seriously, a) wait till you’re old enough and b) if you don’t, please, please wrap it up!

This month: Big Daddy This isn’t an investigation into any Justin Bieber rumours, nor do you need to summon Jeremy Kyle to clarify any recently unearthed revelations of a less than savoury nature. No, readers, for a few hot minutes imagine if Snoop Dogg was your dad. I think about this a lot. Since watching a video of his 12 year-old daughter, Cori B, appearing the hit US show, On The Spot. ‘Why couldn’t Snoop have reared me’, I pondered? Alas, I wouldn’t be sat here trying to work out how I’m a get me a) a rap career b) a yard with a f**k off garden in Kensington. Anyway, back to Cori. At first I thought she was the younger sister of Lioness but alas no, Snoop be the daddy. And I am not a hater but Cori, bless her, is a far weaker offering than young Willow Smith (it’s okay to slew children, right?). As for the overall effect? Budget. But there’s hope - if baby girl decides to do a Rihanna and whip out the big spliff ting for the video, what’s daddy gon’ say? “I coulda got you a better price? This ain’t the piff?” Here’s hoping Cori keeps it cool with Daddy cos while we’re not writing her completely off at the moment, cuteness can only take you so far. Just ask deputy editor Danny Walker. He’s a real daddy. I chat absolute poo @chantellefiddy much like @RWDmag

The date Father’s Day was invented. Sonora Dodd from Washington had the idea while listening to a Mother’s Day sermon and decided to honour her dad in the month - June - that he was born.

The percentage of cards purchased by women for the dad’s day. Shame on you boys

Million, the amount of cards sent worldwide to the old man on his day of remembrance

The amount of kids Ziona Chana has. Yep, you read right, 94! They all live together in Mizoram, India in a 100 room house. Imagine the nappy changing...

ENOUGH ALREADY: LACK OF GOAL-LINE TECHNOLOGY Football is indeed a funny ol’ game; the only sport where you don’t get points for a great dive (unless you’re Ashley Young of course). The only sport where the stars are put on a pedestal one day and then cussed-out the next, and the only sport that allows a shot that clearly hasn’t crossed the line to stand (or vice versa). Danny Walker wonders what the hell FIFA are playing at by delaying the implementation of trouble saving technology... image by Jiro Bevis When I eventually stopped laughing after Chelsea’s brutal 5-1 dismantling of Tottenham at this season’s FA Cup semi-final – ah, that was so funny – I paused and thought, ‘If there was goalline technology Juan Mata’s “goal” would rightfully be ruled out.’ It’s easy to laugh at Spurs’ spineless showcase, especially as an Arsenal fan, but what if that was the Gunners getting kicked in the gonads? What if that was YOUR side on the spiky end of a controversial calamity? What if that was the team you followed falling foul to yet another flaky decision? You’d be annoyed. You’d be livid. You’d be angrier than Carlos Tevez’s mirror. What’s puzzling though is that this is not the first time this easily avoidable atrocity has happened. Anyone remember last year, coincidently in ANOTHER Chelsea vs. Tottenham game, when Frank Lampard’s shot hit hapless

Gomez in his massive nose and then appeared to cross the line? Again, that wasn’t a goal despite it being given by officials. Speaking of hapless, where was ref Jorge Larrionda looking when Lamps fired in that screamer against Germany in the 2010 World Cup? That was MILES and MILES over the line... even Stevie Wonder would have given that. Stevie might have missed a few of the other decisions but he would have seen that. Despite some saying this travesty was revenge for 1966 (and it probably was) we don’t care. That goal should have stood giving lackluster England (although being outplayed in almost every area) a second wind to go on and win the game, instead of losing 4-1. It’s these big decisions that define games. It’s these momentous moments that can make or break a team’s progress in major competitions and it’s these fundamental

high-tech improvements The Beautiful Game needs to install. Since the shocking semi-final incident, FIFA have begrudgingly announced they’re doing “final tests” on goal-line technology such as Sony’s camera-based Hawk-Eye (as used in tennis and cricket) and magnetic fieldbased GoalRef. Whichever one they go with, just like Rooney’s audacious hair augmentation, it’ll be long overdue as the gap has been waiting to be filled for years. “The latest planning meeting for test phase two was held on Friday, and the second phase of tests will commence before the end of April, and will continue throughout May,” the statement reads. Sounds promising but will it be a case of better late than never or will FIFA just say it’s all balls!?!?!

ONE TO WATCH ELRO With the backing of a certain Mike Skinner, it looks like this Welsh rapper is about to go from Internet favourite to chart-topping popstar. Chantelle Fiddy meets Elro... With nearly 1.5 million views cast upon his monumental SB.TV warm-up session, the wordsmith-slash-rapper Elro, 22 years-young, recently released his debut single Bad News. And Mike Skinner (formerly of The Streets) has found it fit to resurrect The Beats label (once home to Example and Professor Green), for the occasion. “Skinner gets me, he was in the same boat as me at one point. Just after my warm-up session, I was asked to do The Streets mixtape (The Robots Are Taking Over). I couldn’t think of anyone I’d like to work with more.” But it’s not all rock and roll in this tale from Chepstow, Wales. The son of a probation officer mother and software developing father, with a passion for the drums, a young Ian Llwelyn-Rowe found love with a snare and spent seven years banging away at the full kit. Deciding rap might be the one after hearing Roots Manuva’s Join The Dots, nowadays Elro is in the studio with the likes of True Tiger, Toddla T, Dub Pistols, Mr W@dz, J Weathers and DJ Kinks - with Dr Dre remaining at the top of the wish list. Yet, in a twist to the tale, Elro a man of logic and science has found himself battling

with his mind. Recently diagnosed with Depersonalisation Disorder (DD), which involves an unpleasant, chronic and disabling alteration, it became the sub-

“SKINNER GETS ME, HE WAS IN THE SAME BOAT AS ME AT ONE POINT. I COULDN’T THINK OF ANYONE I’D LIKE TO WORK WITH MORE...” ject to his most honest track to date, Fearing Myself. “It’s like all of my normality goes in a second,” Elro explains. “Imagine a million thoughts colliding in one. Luckily, I’m in a pretty good place now.” To those trying to gain a greater insight into the man’s mind, check mixtape Porcelain Corpse and last single Bad News. Given the seal of approval by RWD Magazine, UK Rap Music, Dirty Sanchez and Ed Sheeran amongst others, the world is still yet to hear a fully mastered Elro outing. Hopefully, the only Bad News for now is the single. Porcelain Corpse EP is out now bit.ly/elromixtape. @elroraps

LUIS NANI (PORTUGAL)

With many eyes on Cristiano Ronaldo this summer, we have a sneaky feeling that defenders will get caught slipping when it comes to the destructive force born Luís Carlos Almeida da Cunha - simply known to score sheets as Nani. At last month’s launch of the Predator LZ the both footed winger (“that’s an advantage for me,”) told us RWD was “ready” for Euro 2012 and with his new boots in tow, we’re sure he is. Germany, Netherlands and Denmark better be prepared. (DW)

MESUT ÖZIL (GERMANY)

Despite being 23 years of age, Mesut Özil seems to have a footballing brain way beyond his years. Since his post 2010 FIFA World Cup move from Werder Bremen to Real Madrid – where he soon scored his first goal in an El Clásico – the No.10 has gone on to become one of the world’s best players. Not only will his assists help Joachim Löw’s Germany in Euro 2012 – he recently topped La Liga’s assists rankings, with 17 – but his goals are also pretty handy and for his national side he has eight. Özil is definitely one to watch this tournament. (DW)

“I SAW A VISION OF A NEON POLE COMING OUT OF SOMEBODY, AND WANTED TO WRITE ABOUT IT…!”

ONE TO WATCH QUEEN OF HEARTS

This new young singer is about to capture our hearts, minds and ears with her captivating electro-pop. Hattie Collins meets Queen Of Hearts... Leaving the country lanes of Wiltshire for the gold-paved streets of London town some seven years ago, it’s taken this 24 year-old classically trained vocalist time to find her own sound. “I was just writing in my bedroom for a year cos I was shy,” says QOH thinking back to being 17 years-old and in the capital for the first time. “Then I started to meet more and more people, like Dreamtrack [Foals, Cockandbullkid) then Monarchy and it just grew. I didn’t

know what I was writing about as a kid but now I’m a woman so I needed those experiences to really know what I was writing about.” The mysterious singer, so named because of her love of love, prefers not to reveal her true identity. “I like to be elusive,” she grins. Raised by her mum, “jazzer” dad and “punk brother” on a diet of jazz, rockabilly, soul, Motown and ‘80s electro – it was the latter that stuck. “Electronic music just struck a chord, I always had a sense of loving synthetic, computerised music.” From the Thompson Twins to Madonna, Prince, Goldfrapp and Daft Punk, the brunette’s music (last year’s debut EP The Arrival was hailed by the Guardian,

HYDRO74

Q and Popjustice) is often compared to Robyn, Roisin Murphy and Kylie. “I love powerful women. I want to take elements of the performance and style of those women and channel that in my own music.” Titling her own sounds as “Noir Pop”, new single Neon is a brilliantly dark slice of booty-shaking, synthled, dancefloor-destroyer. After Neon will be a track with Kissy Sellout and a debut album, but this Azealia Banks and Richard X fan isn’t too worried about emulating the millions of sales of her peers. “If I get success and I get to see the world a bit, great. But really, I just want to create as long as possible.” Neon is out now on ATG Records. @iamqueenofheart

Hydro74 aka Joshua Smith is an artist, designer, font-master extraordinaire and all-round nice guy. Setting up a website years back as part of an art class project, the talented American was pretty impressed when people started contacting him to do freelance work. “Nothing exciting - mostly shi**y anime drawings but when you’re in college and someone offers you $500 to draw something... I was game!”. Having since designed everything from BMXs and skateboards to clothes and tattoos, Mr Smith is now big in his game; inspired by everyday life and using Illustrator and only Illustrator to create allows him to pay serious attention to detail. On his font-feature in our last issue, Joshua says, “It’s flattering and a honour that you are giving me props and want to use my work!” As for the future expect brilliantly original designs along with “lots of whiskey and absinthe”. Hydro74.com

RWDMAG.COM/RDCY

Last issue we introduced you to the running rebels known as the Run Dem Crew Youngers. Individually they’re strong (with creative talent aplenty) but together they’re unstoppable. With the Nike+ British 10k looming, we caught up with Venetia, Darkz and Troy to find out what fuels them... Photography by Kieran Pharoah styling by Nasrin Jean-Baptiste grooming by Jodie Hyams

MY FAVOURITE RUNNING ROUTE

“I TRY TO THINK ABOUT RANDOM IDEAS AND CREATING DIFFERENT EFFECTS FOR MY TRICKS...”

“[South east London] is very hilly so I go uphill and downhill. The intensity is always changing. I think running is becoming cool again, especially to those outside of running. The thing that works for RDC is that it’s not a [running] club, it’s a crew. It’s just cooler.” - Troy

The day is Tuesday, the time 6pm; members of the Run Dem Crew and the bright-eyed Run Dem Crew Youngers jovially trickle in for this week’s meet. As busy as ever, RDC founder Charlie Dark negotiates the room filled with inspiration, creativity and a buzz of energy that we’ve witnessed only a few times before. With networking and medal mentions high on the agenda we know they’re here to run, but it seems so much more is going on...

Looking for a cool running spot?

“I run around the Emirates stadium. You see the players on the way on Saturday mornings. I also like when we run the Bridges route at the Run Dem Crew Youngers meets.” – Darkz “My sister and I go running together as we’ve got Mitcham Common near us.” – Venetia

DARKZ

TROY aka Von Majik Age: 23 Location: South East London Currently... I’m a magician; I’ve been doing magic since I was 12 and professionally for the last six years. Random fact: I’ve got really smooth feet, I’m not getting them out, sorry! What’s in your head when you run: I try to think about random ideas and creating different effects for my tricks. I look around and get inspiration. It makes the run quicker. Running tips: It’s always hard to start something but I think if you run with a friend you can encourage each other. Running essentials: Bottle of water, pack of cards mobile phone and a Nike Fuelband. No Oyster Card? Nah man, go hard or go home.

Age: 19 Location: Finsbury Park, North London Currently... I’m an artist; I write songs. What’s in your head when you run: You might have something that is on your mind and running is the best time cos you’re in your zone. The 10K: I’ll be ready 100%. When I run it’s a time when you get to think about decision making. Running stories: It was good when we ran to Stratford, I’ll say it one more time... Stratford. Let that marinate. Running tips: Don’t think about the distance. When you know the distance it’s not good. Also, go hard or go home. Running essentials: I just need music, but sometimes I don’t listen to anything. Check my tracks Virgo’s Return or Exile King.

VENETIA Age: 22 Location: Mitcham, South London Currently... in my third, very stressful, year of uni. I’m studying fashion promotion and imaging. Reason for running: I’ve always been active; I used to do 800 metres in school. I stopped for a while and then came to Run Dem Crew when I wanted to re-activate my fitness. Biggest achievement so far: Coming to the end of uni. That is a pretty good achievement as it’s been very hard. I’m excited about the 10k we’re going to do - I know I can do it. Running stories: I tend not to run by myself on the road anymore, cos it’s an excuse for people to beep at me and stuff! Running tips: Always run with Carmex, you can’t run with dry lips. Have music that is nice, especially if you’re not running with everyone and just enjoy it. Don’t take it so seriously. Running essentials: Nike Fuelband, change, Oyster Card for if it starts raining; it’s not a joke my hair is natural - it can’t get wet. Follow @venetianarelle, @Darkzartist, @vonmajik and @rundemcrew. Check out RWDmag.com/RDCY and rundemcrewyoungers.tumblr.com 21

UPFRONT WITH TOM CLEVERLEY

UPFRONT WITH... TOM CLEVERLEY 22 year-old Tom Cleverley is the epitome of ‘schoolboy to star’. Hurtling through Manchester United’s ranks like a hot hairdryer though a depressed dressing room, he’s played for Academy, youth, reserve and now first team sides. With the retirement of Paul Scholes imminent, many feel he’s very much the successor. Danny Walker talks Euro 2012, new adidas Predators and Sopranos with the creative midfielder...

As far as launches go, the arrival of the new adidas Predator Lethal Zones was a pretty sick affair. Setting up five areas to represent the five aspects of the boot – dribble, first touch, sweet spot, drive and pass – it was up to Luis Nani, Edin Dzeko and Cleverley himself to impress journalists from around the world. “This is harder than it looks,” laughed the Basingstoke-born England hopeful as he accurately aimed, controlled with class, swerved with style, brutally blasted and finally dribble-dashed (through ‘jets’ of water) the ball before coming to rest in front of RWD’s Dictaphone... Firstly, are you pleased about the England manager situation? Yeah I mean, I don’t really know much about Roy Hodgson or Harry Redknapp. I’ve played under Stuart Pearce before but yeah, I’m happy I just want to get back to playing for my club and I hope I can impress whichever England manager is appointed [later that day The FA confirmed it to be Roy Hodgson]. You’ve NEARLY got a cap on two occasions now, you must be... [Smiles] Yeah, I do feel like I’m very

“TO BE A MANCHESTER UNITED PLAYER YOU NEED TO HAVE THE RIGHT MENTALITY, SO I THINK I’VE GROWN UP IN THAT SORT OF WAY. I HAD A GREAT START, AND THEN I’VE HAD TO BE MENTALLY STRONG TO COPE...” unlucky but, like you said, one game got called off [England vs. Holland was called off after the London riots] and another I had to pull out due to injury. You feel unlucky but then I’m in a massively lucky position, so it’s not the end of the world. What are your views on the teams in England’s group? Yeah well historically [France] are a good side, they’ll be a tough challenge. I know a bit less about Sweden and Ukraine are the hosts; it’s hard playing against the hosts. Who should replace Rooney up front? I’ll let the manager decide that, I’m not going to try and be the manager. Sturridge and Welbeck are my mates too. Man United did well this season... To be a United player you need to have the right mentality, so I think I’ve grown up in that sort of way. I had a great start, and then I’ve had to be mentally strong

to cope with the injuries and things. Talk us through a typical day off? Is it all just FIFA and Twitter for you? [Laughs] Nah, I mix it up. An average day for me would be to wake up about 8 o’clock. Train at 9. In the gym till 10, train till 12, lunch till 1, go home... maybe have a sleep, a few games of pool, chill out for a bit, go out to a restaurant or something... I’m not the best cook. What is the best meal you’ve cooked? Erm, chicken and rice but even with that my friend has to help out. Who are you closest to in the team? Danny Welbeck and Youngy. I’ve only known Ashley Young this year but he’s a good mate of mine now. You recently signed a new deal with United until 2015, are you hoping Nani does the same? Yeah, he’s a great player, he’s a match winner and when he’s on it there’s not many better players in the Premier League. He’s a good part of our squad. On Twitter you’re always referencing mob films... Yeah at the minute, I’m massive into Sopranos. I’ve done Prison Break, Entourage and now it’s Sopranos, I fall asleep watching that. If you were a mobster what would your name be? Tom “Guns” Cleverley? [Laughs] I dunno, I’ve not thought about that one. For more check tomcleverley23.com or follow @tomclevz23. The new Predator Lethal Zones will be available at adidas retail outlets as well as specialist stores worldwide from June 2012

ENGLAND’S EURO 2012 MIDFIELD WITH AND WITHOUT CLEVERLEY We take a little look at who will be going to Ukraine/ Poland... England’s midfield with Tom Cleverley...

Cleverley Lennon

Gerrard

Young

England’s midfield without Tom Cleverley... Rubbish

QUICK FIRE: Quicker than the man himself? Nah... The boots have a few sweet spots; where is your favourite sweet spot in the world? Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d say Dubai.

Fave gadget? New iPad.

Favourite food? Japanese.

Favourite drink? Sprite.

Favourite car, we assume you have like 10... Nah, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve just got the one. So favourite car or favourite dream car? Your favourite dream car. Probably an Aston Martin...

DB7 or DB9 or something? DBS! And lastly, favourite thing about being a footballer? Give us something inspirational for the kids. The best thing about football is doing the thing you love and winning trophies. 23

ABOUT TO BLOW UKWELI ROACH

SUPPORTED BY

UKWELI ROACH With his face being beamed to millions every week (via the majestic medium of television stations such as Sky 1 and ITV and big screen hits like Streetdance 3D), it doesn’t matter where you recognise Ukweli Roach from; just know this 27 year-old actor is making all the right moves. Danny Walker gets to the bottom of his rise to the top... image by Kieran Pharoah stying by Sophie Robinson grooming by Analisa Sarno

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“I don’t think I am,” laughs Ukweli as he quickly denies any diva antics on set. “I’m normally in and out of makeup in about five minutes.” On Cue, he was before the camera’s flashing bulbs before we could say ‘Blue Steel’. Perched on the end of a stool – with great posture I may add – the former footballer wannabe (“I used to play every single day,”) begins to breakdown the acting bug. “I was never really into performing arts,” he recalls. “But at the age of around 14 I started getting into it and it took over from 15/16 onwards. Before that, the Sunday league team I used to play for had training on Saturday mornings and that’s when I had my tapdancing class, so I often made up excuses as to why I wasn’t there cos I didn’t want my friends to know I danced... because it wasn’t cool.” Despite his dad wanting him to be a doctor or a lawyer Ukweli had other things in mind and it took a modern classic for him to pursue his dreams. “I think I quite fancied Julia Styles,” the Anchorman aficionado divulges before talking fondly of Save The Last Dance. “I thought it would be quite cool to be part of a world that doesn’t exist, and play a part. The film definitely set a trend for popular culture and urban culture and music.” With his sights set on becoming the next Will Smith (“definitely a role model; multifaceted, funny, and a genuinely good actor”), Denzel Washington or Leonardo DiCaprio, the Odd Future fan started to see that acting and dancing was the only way forward. “Getting into RADA was one of my biggest achievements,” the former trumpet player tells RWD of following in the famous footsteps of so many by going to the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts. “I was really pleased with myself and it was a path-changing moment in my life. My first job out of RADA was the role of Tybalt in the Shakespeare Globe’s Romeo and Juliet. The first time I walked on stage seeing 1,500 people all around me, everyone quiet and listening to what I had to say... I almost needed new underwear! The adrenaline was incredible.” New boxers aside, the DVD collector has now made acting his forte. A ‘brief’ appearance alongside Keeley Hazell in Venus And The Sun (“It was a short experience but a good one. She’s certainly a very attractive woman,”) and roles as choreographer/ lothario ‘Jay’ in Streetdance 3D and overly eager angel ‘Tom Greening’ in ITV’s ill-fated Eternal Law soon followed. “It’s strange to think

“THE FIRST TIME I WALKED ON STAGE SEEING 1,500 PEOPLE ALL AROUND ME, EVERYONE QUIET AND LISTENING TO WHAT I HAD TO SAY… I ALMOST NEEDED NEW UNDERWEAR! THE ADRENALINE WAS INCREDIBLE.” sometimes that a lot of people might have seen my face,” the Arsenal supporter states of the road to fame. With his latest part on Sky 1’s Starlings Ukweli’s profile is only going to get bigger. “When I first came out of drama school I was always cast as bad guys and now it’s good, innocent kind of guys so it’s good to get a variety of roles. Starlings revolves around the Starling family, their antics and the trials and tribulations of family life. I play ‘Reuben’ who is the ex of the daughter in the family, and the father of her baby... There’s a journey that they go on.” So he can dance, he can model (anyone see Mr Roach in GQ last month?) and he can act, but which is his favourite? “Oh acting,” Ukweli erupts. “Dancing is a hobby and I love it, it’s fun and keeps you fit and it takes your mind off things... but acting is definitely what I prefer to do...” And modelling? Before the end of our shoot he modestly sets the record straight. “It’s not something that I’m used to really... I think it’s always down to the talent of the photographer.” @ukweliroach. Catch Starlings on Sky 1 on Sundays at 8pm. Follow @ecko_unltd_UK on Twitter

Watch our About To Blow interview with Ukwele Roach on RWDmag.com

RWD:THE LEGACY

The Legacy isn’t all about the music; each musician has their own swag which helps to define them as an artist. Scorcher is the self confessed fly boy, Kozzie carries the understated suave, Benny’s got his laid back style and Leshurr mixes things up with a snapback and sneakers; so we hooked up with JD to showcase the MC’s at their finest. images by Sam Bond styling by Neesha Sharma grooming by Jodie Hyams words Nardene Scott all clothing available at JD - JDsports.co.uk

RWD presents The Legacy - Your favourite magazine celebrates a decade by bringing together the biggest UK grime, garage, dubstep and hip hop hits featuring Tinie Tempah, BBK, Ed Sheeran, Wiley, Wretch 32, K Koke, Magnetic Man, Katy B, Emeli Sandé & more. Out Now. Click RWDmag.com/TheLegacy.

Watch RWD: The Legacy interviews on RWDmag.com/TheLegacy

Scorcher wears Brookhaven Lane T shirt, £13 Benny Banks wears New Era MLB Los Angeles Dodgers 9Fifty snapback, £25. Duffer of St George Crew Sweatshirt, £35. Duffer of St George Lowtide Track Pant, £35 Kozzie wears New Era MLB Cleveland Indians 9Fifty snapback, £25. adidas Originals Trefoil Hooded Jacket, £120 (available at JD and selected retailers) Lady Leshurr wears Duffer of St George Larson Gilet, £30

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RWD:THE LEGACY BENNY BANKS “I much appreciate it man,” the north Londoner says on Bada Bing making The Legacy grade. The Show N Prove produced track catapulted the rapper into the realms of future stardom shortly after being scooped up by 679 Records; but with big hitter Dappy on the second single things are just heating up. “It’s a big track. When you say that you’ve got Dappy on a track people will probably expect something else but it’s very Benny Banks still,” the Islington-ite assures RWD. Benny has been handpicking collaborations for himself and it’s no surprise when we ask him to get nostalgic and retrace which big UK rappers inspired him back in the day. “Mike Skinner, I hope he’s on [the album]!” We stop the spitter to assure him The Streets feature on The Legacy before he continues. “Even the Giggs and Dubz mixtape, that kind of picked UK rap back up, Pain Is The Essence,” confirms the nonchalant one of artists who have repped the scene in his eyes. Due to get back into the studio with fellow Irish lad Maverick Sabre soon, it seems Benny isn’t too bad at A&Ring himself! Bada Bing features on RWD: The Legacy. @mrbennybanks 28 / RWDMAG.COM

“I HOPE MIKE SKINNER’S ON THE ALBUM! IF HE’S NOT, IT’S NOT RIGHT...”

This page: Lady Leshurr wears New Era MLB Colorado Rockies 9Fifty snapback cap, £25. Brookhaven Anderson Hood, £25 Opposite: Benny Banks wears New Era MLB Los Angeles Dodgers 9Fifty snapback, £25. Duffer of St George Crew Sweatshirt, £35. Duffer of St George Lowtide Track Pant, £35

LADY LESHURR “If I’m on bashment, I fling a bit of patois in there. If I’m on grime I do some skippy flows... Sometimes on hip hop I like to have a proper concept of hip hop and just discuss everyday life, it just depends,” the versatile artist tells us of her unique flow. Lego, the Brummie rapper’s breakout single proved this very fact, switching things up once again and even getting her vocal talent out there too; the simple beat let Leshurr’s bars do the talking so no surprise it’s part of The Legacy then! Since then though there’s been 1Xtra Live and SXSW performances and even more on the way. Leshurrrrr (get it right people, it’s Lee-shurrrr) might appear to be at a disadvantage being female with roots beyond the M25, but her talent more than speaks for itself. Being a Lady, she’s keen to big up her Mids crew who are also flying the flag. “There are a lot of guys coming out of Birmingham which is exciting; we’ve got C4, Preditah, Trilla, StayFresh, there’s Bassboy, big up Mike Skinner, there’s me...” the double time spitter confirms with a smile. Look out for Leshurr flying lyrics upon lyrics into your ears this year - after all it is 2000 and L. Lego features on RWD:The Legacy. @LadyLeshurr 29

RWD: THE LEGACY SCORCHER “It’s nice to be recognised and be a part of what’s going on, and remembered with the monumental moments in grime,” the fly boy tells us on set of our Legacy fashion shoot. Getting all nostalgic, the lyricist who is no newcomer to RWD, remembers the tracks that he came up around. “There’s obvious ones like Eskimo and Creeper... Kano Ps and Qs that was a cold one man, one of my favourites.” With Dark

“IT’S NICE TO BE RECOGNISED AND BE A PART OF WHAT’S GOING ON, AND REMEMBERED WITH THE MONUMENTAL MOMENTS IN GRIME...” Knight already featuring on the album, Scorch is definitely going in the right direction for future compilation involvement with the new Talay Riley featuring S-X produced banger, It’s All Love complete with an all star remix. Having just appeared in Channel 4 drama Top Boy and with a new role in an upcoming Revolver flick, he’s been exercising his talents on the screen, enjoying the fact it’s fresh and the beginning of something new. Dark Knight is on RWD:The Legacy and It’s All Love is out now. @Scorcherslife

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“I THINK IT’S GONNA TAKE A CERTAIN SONG, AND LESS VIOLENCE IN LYRICS… BUT AS LONG AS THE GRIME ARTISTS STICK TO GRIME SONGS, IT [GRIME MUSIC] SHOULD DO WELL...” This page: Kozzie wears New Era MLB Washington Nationals 9Fifty snapback cap, £25. Nike Super Runner Jacket, £65 (available at JD and selected retailers) Opposite: Scorcher wears Duffer of St George Protocal T-Shirt, £20

KOZZIE We’ve had our eye on Kozzie for a while now; relentlessly energising the grime scene whether it’s in Jammer’s basement or at ILUVLIVE backed by a full live band, the south Londoner is keeping it grimy. His Spartan remix featuring other talents currently reigniting the grime scene didn’t have an issue making it onto The Legacy album. “Spooky made a good instrumental – I liked it and I asked for him to send it to me, there was a good reception for it so I thought I’d do a remix,” he says simply. Nothing unusual in his early influences, Koz grew up to the sounds of Roll Deep, picking out Dizzee’s Fix Up Look Sharp and Skepta’s Nokia Charger Wire as a couple of his faves. But with the recent Preditah hook up, the new stonker of a single Yeah is blowing up in a big way. “I’ve always thought he was a great producer but loads of artists were vocalling his tunes... I said I wanted it to sound a bit different, a little bit of dub in there,” says the hype MC of the smash out now. Kozzie’s Spartan remix Ft. Merky Ace, Marger, Rival, Ego & Scrufizzer is on RWD: The Legacy. Yeah is out now @officialkozzie

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STYLE GUIDE STYLE | STYLE NEWS | REFRESHED

WHAT TO WEAR AND HOW TO WEAR IT...

PHOTOGRAPHER: SARAH GRIGGS STYLIST: SOPHIE ROBINSON RETOUCHING: CORE DIGITAL LTD Nanny State @ BANK Dispatch Bag bankfashion.co.uk, £20 Luke Catchum sunglasses luke1977.com, £60 The Duffer of St. George denim hi tops jdsports.co.uk, £45

ick of h our p ories. it w le ss ub See do er time accee...! summ wice as nic T

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Luke velvet navy blazer luke1977.com, £140 Luke Shady Aidy sunglasses luke1977.com, £35 Farah stripe shirt blue farah.co.uk, £25 Minimun chino minimum.dk, £70 Tooley scarf and pocket square saturdaycasuals.co.uk, £30 A.Sauvage x Dr Marens boots drmartens.com Luke brogues luke1977.com, £125

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Luke Enforcer sunglasses luke1977.com, £60 Farah woven belt farah.co.uk, £40 Luke Lucky wallet luke1977.com, £39 Luke white tee luke1977.com, £30 Volcom Rem Chino Pant volcomeurope.com, £70 Luke watch luke1977.com, £120 Minimum checked shirt minimum.dk, £60 Original Penguin mac originalpenguin.co.uk, £110 Rivington @ BANK Desert Boots bankfashion.co.uk, £50 Wolverine Boots wolverineuk.com, £330 35

The Duffer of St. George blue mac jdsports.co.uk, £70 Nanny State @ BANK Plaited Belt bankfashion.co.uk, £15 The Duffer of St. George T shirt jdsports.co.uk, £20 Luke sunglasses luke1977.com, £35 ToyWatch JetLag black toy-watch.co.uk, £145 JanSport Ski & Hike backpack jansport.com, £47.99 ASICS SportStyle Gel Saga asics.co.uk/sportstyle, £90 The Duffer of St. George hi tops jdsports.co.uk, £55

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Crooks & Castles snap back threadsaddiction.com, £30 Minimum shirt surfdome.comminimum.dk, £60 Original Penguin belt originalpenguin.co.uk, £40 Nanny State @ BANK jeans bankfashion.co.uk, £25 The Duffer of St. George mac jdsports.co.uk, £70 JanSport backpack jansport.com, £149 The Duffer of St. George hi tops jdsports.co.uk, £45 Luke watch luke1977.com, £40

STADIUM STATUS PHOTOGRAPHY: SAM BOND STYLING: NASRIN JEAN-BAPTISTE GROOMING: JAYNE WILLIAMS MODEL: JAMES FLUDE AT AMCK, RAFA AND RYAN AT STRIKE MODEL MANAGEMENT THANKS TO LEYTON ORIENT FC

Rafa wears catnip crew by Beck & Hersey, denim shirt by Levi’s, skinny jeans by Cheap Monday, trainers by Nike Ryan wears Polska football shirt by Nike, denim shirt by Izzure, red skipper jacket by Beck & Hersey, navy chinos by Wesc, grey high tops by The Duffer of St. George at JD Sports James wears Portugal football shirt by Nike, varsity by The Duffer of St. George at JD Sports, beige chinos by Beck & Hersey, grey trainers Converse 38 / RWDMAG.COM

(this page) Ryan wears France football shirt by Nike, check shirt by 55DSL, backpack by JanSport, fitted cap by Obey (opp. page) James wears Greece football shirt by adidas, hoody by Fly 53, denim stripe jacket by Diesel

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Ryan wears France football shirt by Nike, check shirt by 55DSL, backpack by JanSport, fitted cap by Obey James wears coat by Izzure, T-shirt by Nike, khaki green jeans by 55DSL, trainers by Puma Rafa wears jacket by Sergio Tacchini at JD Sports, Germany football shirt by adidas, denim shirt by Levi’s, chino’s by The Duffer of St. George at JD Sports, trainers by Converse

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Rafa wears denim poka dot shirt by Supremebeing, Croatia football shirt by Nike

(this page) Rafa wears Italy football shirt by Puma, red jumper by Pele Sport, chinos The Duffer of St. George, trainers by Converse. (opp. page) James wears varsity jacket by Alpha Industries, Germany football shirt by adidas, red jeans by Beck & Hersey, black suede trainers by Puma, fitted cap by Supremebeing

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(this page) Jack wears T shirt by Beck & Hersey, rain coat by The Duffer of St. George, IceWatch, denim adidas Originals (opp. page) Jack wears New Era NY Hat, A Bathing Ape hoody, Ice Watch 45

STYLE NEWS We deliver news fresh from the world of fashion. For more style selections, competitions and exclusive content, go to RWDmag.com/style

GO BALLISTIC Nike drop their Limited Summer Collection inspired by the amazing football clash range. Wayne Rooney and Cristano Ronaldo are just a couple of the world class players set to sport Nike’s clash collection this month in the Euros; but it’s not just the ballers the boots have inspired. The Limited Summer Collection features classic trainer styles revamped with accents of boots from the clash range. The CTR360 Maestri II lends its timeless silhouette to the Tennis AC, while the sleek Mercurial Vapor VIII is the lightest on the pitch. We want and we want now! Nikesportswear.com

TAKE FLIGHT Get involved in the latest trend by sporting this wrist piece... ToyWatch have always ticked the style appeal box but now they’re proving the mechanics behind the watches are just as important as they bare the inner workings in their modern aviator collection, Toy2fly Skeleton. Inspired by a true classic, the black and white updated timepieces feature blinging bezels, whilst the wider collection showcases colour combinations and everything from red and navy blue to maroon. The Toy2fly collection starts at £145 check toy-watch.co.uk

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CALL IT A CLASSIC Umbro enter the archives for a special update this season... With almost 90 years in the game, there’s no other brand who has a richer football heritage than Umbro. Fifteen out of the 16 teams who played in the 1966 World Cup wore Umbro, including tournament winners, England. Ahead of this summer’s football-fest, Umbro has re-released some classic England shirts for fans who like looking good on and off the terrace. Fans will have different memories of each shirt – whether it’s Bobby Moore in 1970, Gary Lineker in ’86 or Gazza in 1990 – but they all carry the same timeless design. JD Sports, from £28, jdsports.co.uk

WAX MILITANT There’s clothing that you wear to cover up, then there’s the jackets to make others jealous... Designer Ronnie Fieg is often called upon for his NYC swagger, and this time around Marshall Artist has linked up with the industry go-to-designer to create the Waxed M65 Jacket. Ideal for the sometimeish weather we’ll experience here in the UK this summer, the lightweight military style jacket features a concealed hood, drawstring adjustments and leather detailing. The super limited collection is available in just 20 units of each colourway - bottle green and back gingham or red and black gingham - so make sure you hurry if you want to grab yourselves an exclusive. For more info check marshallartist.co.uk

BLOCK IT UP If you’re looking for that classic boot with a modern edge, look no further. Everyone’s favourite stylish producer Pharrell (sorry Ye) and his Billionaires Boys Club brand have teamed up with famed shoe designer Mark McNairy for a collection of brogue boots sure to be sought after. Keeping things fresh the sleek design and production courtesy of British establishment Cordwainer’s means the rich black leather uppers and funky block colour contrasting primary coloured soles will become a wardrobe staple. £385 for more information see bbcicecream.eu

HELL YEL We’re due at least one week of sunshine this summer - don’t you just love this country?! - but that shouldn’t stop you from rocking a bit of on trend yellow all summer long (even if it is a rain-proof mac). Nicholas Deakins Local Warlords jacket, NicholasDeakins.com, £99 ICE Watch Sili Forever, watchshop.com, £85 Eastpak rucksack eastpak.com Beck and Hersey Skipper jacket, Bankfashion.co.uk, £49.99 Pele Sports Pele Core track jacket, pele-sports.com, £39.99 Nike Blazer High Suede, nikestore.com, £67

SPOTLIGHT ON… Entering the second decade of his fashion career, Walé Adeyemi has become an iconic British establishment and a template for what young designers can achieve... In 1995 you started Walé Adeyemi; how did B-Side by Walé evolve? I started to do B-Side by Walé as I wanted to broaden the collection. Walé Adeyemi was initially soft tailoring, jackets, shirts and so on, but I was also inspired by streetwear, so B-Side was the flip side of some of the ideas I wanted to pursue. Going back to the days of vinyl where you had an A and B side of a record, I wasn’t really thinking about success to be honest. Fashion seems to be an affair I’ve never got tired of. Describe your ‘somewhere between the kerb and the boutique’ concept. When I started the line I used to find it difficult to describe the style of what I was trying to do. Sometimes I used to wear tailored tracksuits in mohair wools, so ‘somewhere between the kerb and the boutique’ seemed to deal with my thought process. Bear in mind its influences from street and also traditional fashion. How have you found designing both menswear and womenswear? I’ve been fortunate enough to have a good team of people around me whom help turn my dreams into reality and make things happen. What’s the concept for the new collection. Summer for us is all about representing our city London; ‘I love my city’, ‘Big up London’, are all slogans you will see in the seams of S/S12. What big fashion trends do you predict? Crazy prints, floral, Hawaiian and different animal skins/prints. What’s next? We have had a pretty awesome year, so now it’s about building the team. It’s become a hub for creatives from graphics designers, photographers and stylists to fine art, music and marketing. Everyone in the team right now has more than one skill and we master our crafts as one. Check b-sidebywale.com

PALLADIUM COMPETITION

WINNER TAKES ALL Last month we gave RWD readers the chance to win three pairs of Palladium boots, £250 to blow at Shoreditch’s Boxpark, and a photoshoot to show off all those new garms. When 22 year-old Peter Silva heard about the competition he wanted in on the action! “For the last three months I’ve been on a lucky streak and won lots of things, so I thought I may as well give it a go!” We caught up with the Brazilian producer/skater/ engineer/traveller/man-ofmany-skills to find out all about his day... Photography by James Pearson-Howes

THINGS YOU MIGHT NOT KNOW ABOUT PALLADIUM • Palladium was founded in 1920 and originally produced tyres for European aircraft. • In 1947, Palladium used their tyre producing background to explore footwear, birth- ing the hardwearing Pampa boot, famously worn by the French Foreign Legion. • The Palladium LITE Technology collection boasts an ultra lightweight design in a range of colourways. Perfect for Summer! • Palladium have collaborated with Pharrell Williams on an ‘Urban Exploration’ series. See the full collection at the Boxpark or Westfield Stratford stores in London.

How would you describe your style? I try and go for the Pharrell look – kind of skater/ bad boy/ sophisticated... so chinos with a nice shirt. I’ll even rock a bowtie if I need to! Pharrell is actually involved with Palladium’s Urban Exploration project. If you could do some urban exploring yourself, where would you go? Tokyo! I want to go somewhere completely different. So which stores have you checked out today in Boxpark? Volcom, 55 DSL, Abuse, Luke and Palladium. I was stumped with what to choose though because everything’s so varied. The stylist really helped me go for something a bit different! What’s your favourite item that you bagged today? Definitely the Palladium Slim Snaps. It’s actually the first time I’ve ever worn their shoes and they feel amazing! What was your favourite thing about the day in general? Just meeting loads of new people really. I’ve just never done anything like this before – I usually hate having photos taken! It was really out of my comfort zone but I really enjoyed it. See palladiumboots.com for more

REFRESHED Nick Sagar is a 24 year-old actor that’s known for previously dating Alexandra Burke, owning a ruthless set of abs and kicking off in Ben Drew’s ill Manors, but did you know his ReFreshment routine commands respect? Danny Walker finds out his grooming game plan... images by Maxim Tictac

“My hairline man, that stuff just likes to grow out way too quick. My dad is half-Guyanese and he’s got Indian in him so, my hair just grows quick. I get it cut every week otherwise I start to look a bit...” RWD RECOMMENDS:

REMINGTON CREATIVE HAIR CLIPPER HC620KOS (remington.co.uk, £29.99)

As you can see this professional hair clipper is using titanium coated blades to keep your hairline in check... If you don’t mind doing it yourself that is. No matter how quick your hair grows it will give you that 3mm – 25mm cut with the ultimate precision. Add the fading comb and you’re good to go.

“Last night I was in the car with my friends and I was like, ‘Who’s got moisturiser?’ I got cussed, ‘We don’t carry no moisturiser!!!’ Then one of my boys secretly slid me some Nivea.” RWD RECOMMENDS:

NIVEA FOR MEN SKIN ENERGY MOISTURISER (niveaformen.co.uk, £8.99 for 50ml)

This Skin Energy Moisturiser from NIVEA does a great job eradicating signs of stress.

“I remember I used to steal my dad’s aftershave all of the time. What is it, Kourus? I remember going to see my friend [with it on] and she was like, ‘Whoa?’ I was like 19 and smelling like my dad.” RWD RECOMMENDS:

YVES SAINT LAURENT LA NUIT DE L’HOMME COLOGNE (ysl.com, TBC)

What’s all this about stealing your dad’s aftershave? With Father’s Day is coming up, fix him up with the new lemon, mandarin, bergamot, black pepper geranium, vetiver tonka bean and cashmere wood boasting fragrance from YSL.

“When I moved to LA I noticed all the guys were so trimmed up and everything, they were just on point with this, that and everything. I thought, ‘I can’t see myself doing some of this...’ three months later I was fully in the routine.” RWD RECOMMENDS:

GILLETTE FUSION PROGLIDE (SPECIAL EDITION OLYMPIC RANGE) (facebook.com/gilletteuk, From £9.99)

To celebrate the forthcoming London 2012 Paralympic Games, Gillette is getting behind Team GB with a limited edition range that will stand out in any bathroom cupboard. The technology packed razor is gold – just like the medals we’re getting this summer. 50 / RWDMAG.COM

“I never used to use the whole face product thing, I’d get up wash my face with water and that would be it; I’m out the door. I never used to worry about it, but when I hit 21 and I got the odd spot, I was freaking out.” RWD RECOMMENDS:

FREEDERM EXFOLIATING FACIAL WASH (freederm.co.uk, TBC)

We’re glad you’re leading the way when it comes to face products because it’s not about the odd spot popping up the night before a big date/ house party/ job interview. Add Freederm’s exfoliating excellence to your daily routine and sit back and count the opportunities. Allows you to unblock pores, remove excess oil and look good at the same time.

PRODUCT OF THE MONTH ISSEY MIYAKE L’EAU D’ISSEY POUR HOMME SPORT

(Available nationwide, £38.50 for 50ml) We love a new fragrance here at ReFreshed and it doesn’t come newer (or more distinctive) than the latest sporty number from Issey Miyake. As we prepare for Euro 2012, it’s only right that the product of the month also captures inspiration from all things active. Fusing bergamot and grapefruit, Homme Sport is both fresh and vibrant whilst backed up by nutmeg, vetiver roots and cedar to add that woody/ nutty/ spicy undertone. You just have to ask yourself if you give it to your father or keep it for yourself.

NICK SAGAR We talk to the iLL Manors actor about films, football, being fresh and mistaking pants for shorts. What are your reasons for getting ReFreshed? It is about looking good for the ladies or cos of your job? Nah, cos if I don’t my manager will tell me off [laughs]. If it wasn’t for him half of the stuff I wouldn’t do cos he’d grill me, so it’s for him [laughs]. As much as I’d say it’s for the ladies, it’s for him. Breakdown your character ‘Marcel’ from ill Manors, he starts as the big man... and then slowly we see his demise. Yeah, I knew so many people like him growing up. When I was growing up there was the top person and everybody looked up to them and then a couple of years later something happens and that is it... that is him. He wants to be the neighbourhood tough guy and the neighbourhood bully – he thinks he can control people and no one will say anything or test him – what he doesn’t realise is that on the way up there are people that you have to see. Moving on to football, we know you’re a Liverpool fan, what is that about coming from London? [Laughs] You know what; I’m not a glory hunter. I was born in ’88 so it’s just passion. Growing up, me and my two best friends were in school and I think we watched a game together and made a pact. From that day it’s always been Liverpool. I think I accidently wore Liverpool boxers as shorts in Primary School as well... I thought they were shorts. Do you think England have got a chance in Euro 2012? I hope so cos I’m an England fan. Every time we go to one of these Euros or World Cups... I cry. This is why my dad doesn’t get invested in it, cos he gets letdown and I understand but I want them to [win] and they can if they just pull their fingers out and go for it. ill Manors is out 6 June. For more follow @NickDSagar

COVER STORY DANIEL STURRIDGE EVERYONE’S PLAYING FIFA 12 Mr Sturridge’s views on his gaming skills...

T K OUEO C E CH E VID AT TH VIEW M/ R INTE MAG.CO RWD SPORT 52 / RWDMAG.COM

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Daniel wears Nike Regional Logo T shirt

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You claim to be good on FIFA... Why d’you say ‘claim’, there is no need for that [laughs]. I just think I’m decent like [laughs]. What do you think of your stats and who is your team? I don’t play the game that much. I don’t really play as much as I’d like to. I’m not saying I don’t really practice but the team I play with varies from time-to-time; I play with Bayern Munich, with Real Madrid, with Milan but it depends on my opponent and what plan they’re coming up with.

GROWING UP The Sturridge family have a long line of footballing talent (with Dean and Simon Sturridge being your uncles). Where do you see yourself compared to them? Obviously I come from a long list of Sturridges that have played, but for me there has never been a competition about ‘who’s the best’? Or ‘who’s done the most’? Them guys and my father have done a lot for the game, a lot for myself, and my family and I’ve got the upmost respect for them. It’s never been a competition and it never will. With any of the other Sturridges – I know there are a few on my tail... There are more coming up? I’ve got two younger cousins who are playing; one’s at Aston Villa, one’s at Coventry, they’ll be exactly the same. I think they’re gonna wanna achieve as much as I can and as much as I do. I like to let them get on with their football in general and just enjoy being young; enjoy the moment, no pressure. If they ever need any advice they’ve got me at the end of a phone. What have you had to overcome to make it as a football player? I think the main thing is when I was younger and growing up in Birmingham – I grew up in Hockley – and there were a lot of people getting shot and stabbed. A lot of drugs were being sold and gangs, the list goes on. That was easily there for me to get involved with but my family kept me out of that. From the ages of 10-13, I was playing football a lot of the time. Of course you do want to keep the affiliation with your friends that you’ve always had, but at the end of the day, you’ve got to realise they might not have the same path as you. They might not have the same ambition as you. Can you remember a pivotal moment? It’s quite strange cos I’ve never really had one moment when I thought ‘This is it’. Maybe when I moved from Birmingham, when I thought, ‘This is a big change for me,’ moving from a big city to Congleton, which is a small town in Cheshire. It was basically my household, with my mum and dad and brother and sister, moving together as a unit. Speaking of your mum, when was the last time you were in trouble and she shouted ‘Daniel Andre Sturridge’? [Laughs] I don’t think she’s ever used my middle name. I still get shouted at now though. 53

COVER STORY DANIEL STURRIDGE

DANIEL IN DIGITS...

This is Daniel’s squad number for Chelsea, it’s also the number for his pal Tom Cleverley.

CHELSEA, 6TH, CUE THE BANTER…

Tell us about the highs and the lows of the 2011-2012 season? I think the high point in my season so far has just been playing football and to get that England cap was a good point. The low points of the season so far was the dip in form that the team had when we weren’t winning many games, but that comes with the territory. You just have to deal with those types of things. The cameraman [Felix] and I are Arsenal fans – cue the banter – do you think Arsenal are basically better than Chelsea? Come on now... I don’t think Arsenal are better than Chelsea, obviously not. When I was younger I always loved Arsenal – cos they had Ian Wright, Thierry Henry, Dennis Bergkamp, the list goes on. They even had my mate Ashley Cole, and Anelka, who I also looked up at also played for Chelsea, but for me, Chelsea all day. [Booooo] Sorry, just clearing my throat...

GROUP D...

The number of Premier League goals Daniel Sturridge scored this season, this is the same as Tottenham’s Jermain Defoe and seven more than Andy Caroll #justsaying.

The year Mr Sturridge was born – the same week England drew 0-0 with Sweden in a World Cup qualifier and Yazz was No.1 in the charts with The Only Way Is Up.

The number of assists Daniel Sturridge got in the Champions League.

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What do you think of our chances at Euro 2012, realistically... Realistically I think England want to win, but the expectation of everybody is too high for what we’ve achieved. We haven’t won many tournaments but we have great players playing all the time. Are you glad The FA have said Hodgson is the England manager... Yeah, it’s great times now the England manager has been announced. It makes everybody relax a little bit, they know who the manager is, they know what he wants from players, he obviously is going to pick the players that he likes. And the teams in Group D... France have world class players in Franck Ribéry and Benzema. Sweden have got Ibrahimovic and players like that. Ukraine, I don’t really know too much but they have great individuals. If England wins Group D, we get to play runners up in Group C (with Spain, Italy, Ireland, Croatia)... Who are you looking at there for second, Italy? Ireland? It’s a hard one. I don’t know [who the runners-up] are going to be there but you can never rule out Croatia as well.

HAS STURRIDGE GOT STYLE?

Who’s got the most style in the Chelsea team? You know you can include yourself... I don’t want to sound cocky... There are quite a few players that have their own dress sense. Raul Meireles has a vibe... Is that bad? ‘Vibe’ sounds bad... Nah, he’s doing his thing, he’s a funky guy. He likes to dress a little bit different. Er, Ash is more stylish and I’d say Frank Lampard as well, he’s more of an elegant type of dresser, he has a bit of class about the way he dresses so I’d probably say that those three are the ones that stand out to me. And who’s got the worst? The worst? I don’t wanna put any of my teammates on blast right now [laughs]. Well, who maybe wore something in the changing room that was a bit... [Laughs]. There’s been an incident hasn’t there. [Laughs] There have been a lot of incidents but I can’t name names. All I can say is certain people have walked into the changing room and there’s stuff’s hung up for everyone to see. Trainers, the lot. I’m not going to say I’ve not had a pair of trainers put up there before cos I have but at the same time, it’s all banter, it’s all love. I just leave them to it. What’s on your iPad/ iPod? I have The Weeknd, J.Cole and a guy called Higher Tone, from Jamaica. What track do you listen to it your car cos there’s that Alex OxladeChamberlain video of him goin’ in on Nicki Minaj? Jill Scott – A Long Walk; that goes off. Can you remember the first album you bought? What was it? 50 Cent’s Get Rich Or Die Tryin’. That was my first album, bought it straight away. So what is happening with your hair? I might get S-curl next season, cos you’ve got to switch it up. And finally, your hopes for the future... To be starting for my club, obviously to be a regular in the England team would be amazing. And on a personal note, to be considered and looked at as one of the better players around, that would be good, I think that goes for everyone. For more on Daniel Sturridge check chelseafc.com. To find out what he’s wearing, check nikesportswear.com and JDsports.co.uk. For the exclusive behind the scenes video, log on to RWDmag.com/tv

DANCING ON ICE JAMAICAN TV

Daniel wears Nike Firefly Seersucker and Nike Grand Slam Polo

RWD finally get to the bottom of his live TV dance moves... [I ready the iPad] We wanted to show you something to get your views [shows a clip of him on YouTube dancing on Jamaican TV]. Please explain what this is... [In shock/ embarrassment] Ah man... Look at those moves... [Laughs] They put me on the spot really didn’t they? We’re on the spot now... Naaaaaah [laughs]. I’m saying... Could you teach us some moves? I don’t know, they just put me on the spot so I just had to do it. ‘Can you do a dance?’ What would you rate your moves out of 10? Ah man, I dunno. I’m not the best of dancers... it was live on television, I couldn’t say no.

CHARLOTTE JACKSON’S GUIDE TO...

CHARLOTTE JACKSON’S GUIDE TO EURO 2012

Fans of Sky Sports News, 71 Degrees North and Take It Like A Fan will be well aware of Portsmouth born Charlotte Jackson. As well as being a popular presenter, an avid golfer and a loyal Liverpool fan, this former singer can be heard on Tony Christie’s Is This The Way To Armarillo and was in the girlband Nebula 101. After breaking basically every bone in her body (sort of) playing lacrosse, skiing, water-skiing and football, Jackson switched playing sport to commentating on it. When it comes to England at Euro 2012, she has high hopes for us, just as long as we get out of the group stage... Story told by Danny Walker

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“I DON’T HAVE A MASSIVE THRONE AT HOME WHERE TOPLESS MEN COME IN AND COOK FOR ME, NO. I MIGHT GET MY BOYFRIEND TO DO THAT THOUGH…!”

FINALLY, AN ENGLISHMAN IN CHARGE

TEAM TALK

“I’m very glad that The FA have finally appointed someone for the job. I think everyone just presumed Harry Redknapp would get the job. And everyone thought they were waiting until nearer the end of the season to announce it, but Roy Hodgson is an English man, which is good. I am pleased with the England Manager, and I actually think he’ll do well.”

“Ukraine are hosts, but I don’t see them getting many good results. Sweden – you know, they’ve got Ibrahimovic and that’s it. France will probably be another team that qualifies. Laurent Blanc is seen as the Renaissance Man, he’s got Benzema... I just think that we could have had a lot worse. So I think we should win that, and that should give us confidence. As long as Spain win their group. Nothing to worry about there!”

ROY HODGSON, REALLY?

IRISH LUCK

“Everyone is like, ‘Why Roy?’ but if you look at his CV, he has managed all over Europe. He’s done like six different countries and sixteen different clubs – in Switzerland and Finland. Obviously their expectations aren’t going to be as high as England’s but still he seems like a very nice guy and a people’s person as well, and after Fabio Capello, I think they wanted someone who would be more personable with the players, like Harry Redknapp. In actual fact, Roy is very much like that. I think it’s also difficult for him to takeover so close to the Euros. You can’t really judge him too much, but I think everyone will. He was saying he wants the fans and players to get behind him, because obviously the media could completely slate him. I think he’s also got a four year deal with a chance of qualifying for the World Cup in Brazil as well. We’ll see what happens... everyone has high expectations for the Euros, everyone’s built up and getting really, really excited.”

AND REPLACING ROONEY IN THE FIRST TWO GAMES IS…

“Going purely by stats, Peter Crouch. On an international level he has an amazing goal to game ratio. With foreign defences he always causes problems and I don’t know whether they’d be able to handle him. He’s done well for Stoke; I think it’s five goals in the last nine or something. I think it should be him, and he’s got experience as well playing for England. So yeah, I think it should be Peter Crouch.”

GAZZA’S THE BEST

“Out of the group we’ve got, it’s a reasonably kind draw I think. We avoided Portugal, Germany, Spain, so I think we should do alright. We’ll just see who’s selected for the squad.”

“Gascoigne is my favourite English player purely for his potential – you know, he was world class... and entertainment value. It’s such a shame how it is now really. I play golf with Ian Wright as well, so he’ll be like, “Why didn’t you say me?!” But yeah, I’m gonna go Gazza for pure entertainment value and passion for when he was crying.”

THE DREADED GROUP STAGE

WHAT ARE WE GOING TO DO ABOUT LIVERPOOL?!

IT’S NOT WHO YOU PLAY, IT’S WHO YOU AVOID

There is a lot of talk about this year’s European Championships – especially as The FA only appointed an England manager about 10 minutes ago – so who better to fill our brains with knowledge than someone in the know. Not only does Charlotte Jackson love playing sports – she once broke her metatarsal playing footy – but she’s presented on just about every sports show going, including Sky’s Champions League coverage and 2009’s FIFA World Player of the Year. The Girl With The Dragon Tattoo fan tells it how it is...

“I think Ireland could actually win their group! I have a bit of a feeling about that. Ireland are becoming the force they once were. I think they could do quite well in the big tournaments, they don’t have any world class players but... Obviously Croatia you can’t really write them off. But Ireland could do quite well... which would be good wouldn’t it?”

“I think we’ll qualify from the group, actually I think we should win the group. But it’s always a bit of a lottery for England. You never really know what’s going to happen. I don’t think we’re gonna win it, though obviously it’d be lovely. I think we are due a bit of luck because we never have much luck – it’s always a bit of a rollercoaster ride with all the anticipation... but yeah, I think we’ll win the group.”

“Skrtel has been my favourite player this season – despite scoring an own goal the other night – and with Agger, when he was fit, he was brilliant. Despite all of [the many controversies], I would say Suarez too because of his work rate off the ball; he’s constantly running here, there and everywhere, always fighting for the ball. We do create a lot of goal chances though – I think we need to find a prolific >>

CHARLOTTE SWEENY’S GUIDE TO... << striker that can convert them all. But then it’s like, well, who do we need? Bellamy comes off the bench all the time, but when he does really well actually. Yeah, we need a few players to go, and we need to bring in some world class players too.”

THE SEXISM SITUATION WITH ANDY GRAY

“Obviously I always get asked about this, but I wasn’t actually involved in the situation, I was just in that clip. It was off camera, and he said something to me that I didn’t even hear. You know... I actually always got on with him, had nothing against him and had a laugh with him. I think it’s like with any workplace, like when you go into the city, people say jokey things all the time.”

WOMEN AT SKY

“If you were to come into Sky, there are so many women, not just in front of the camera, but writing the scripts, on the news desk, in the gallery producing/ directing... and it’s just the norm. It’d be the same at the BBC or ITV, there could be a woman producing and directing a whole sports show. Obviously years and years ago, even Doctors and stuff like that, it was like “Oh women, really?!” But nowadays it’s not even thought about really.”

TYPICAL DAY OFF Charlotte Jackson talks about life off screen...

WOMEN STILL NOT EQUAL

“Look at football – the women’s England team has always done really well, better than the men’s in fact! There really are some unbelievable female players across the world. But if you go to a stadium, it’ll be the male football teams that will sell-out the stadium. It’s like a business really. [Men] get the bigger deals because they’ll bring in the greatest revenue. I’m sure in years to come it’ll get better. It’s just getting people to watch women’s football really. I mean, in tennis at the moment, the prize money is going up with both male and female players.”

AND FINALLY, ADVANCES FROM MEN ON TWITTER

“Twitter is a good tool for finding out what is going on in the world as well, if you follow different journos, different news people. Obviously you can have a laugh on it as well, you can get quite good banter on it. You can also get abuse on it. [With advances] I just say yes to everyone [laughs]. It’s very

flattering but I’m not rude to anyone. I have a boyfriend so... They’re just really funny, half of them don’t really mean it anyway. You do get the odd person who tweets you like nine times a day. There are very, very few, most people are just normal. If there is anyone who you think is a problem you can just block them, but I haven’t had to block anyone actually.” For more check charlottejackson.tv, follow @CharLouJackson or watch ITV’s sports special of The Big Quiz which airs just before the Olympics and Keith Lemon: The Film which Charlotte cameos in, out later this year

It all depends on the weather really! If it’s a nice day, I’ll probably go and play golf because I don’t get that much time for it. If it isn’t nice weather I’d probably go and see friends that aren’t working because they have children, and then go shopping or to the gym for kickboxing. I’d then go and eat some Japanese food and watch a film... Not on my own [laughs]! Favourite food? I love all food to be honest. I love Japanese, Thai as well, and I love a good Italian. I love making paella. Isn’t that easy, just throw loads of food into a massive dish? Yeah, it’s a lot easier than it sounds. I prefer to be cooked for. Do you have a massive throne at home where topless men come in and cook for you? Erm... No [laughs]. I might get my boyfriend to do that though [laughs]. Favourite drink? Very boring non-alcoholic one would be water and alcoholic one would be a nice red wine or a Mojito. Favourite item in your wardrobe? My All Saints leather jacket. I’m not a shoe person, I love my jacket cos I can just chuck it on.

INTERVIEW AARON LENNON

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MAKE PACE, NOT WAR

AARON LENNON NUMBERS

Consistently terrorising Premier League defences for the last seven years, it’s easy to forget that Aaron Lennon is still only 25. With Euro 2012 on the horizon, Tego Sigel grabbed the England international at the launch of Nike’s new Mercurial Vapor VIIs, to talk about the tournament, the Olympics, style, music and more...

First thing’s first; what do you think of your new Mercurial Vapor VIIIs? Very nice, obviously I’ve only just got to back wearing them but I tried the prototype a few months ago and straight away I knew then it was probably the best one I’ve ever had. Have you allowed your mind to start thinking about Euro 2012? Yeah, you definitely look forward to it. It’s a great experience. Obviously now, as it gets closer, your mind starts to drift towards it, but because of my injuries and stuff I’ve just been concentrating on getting back in the Spurs team. How’s the game changing, do you think? Each year the Premiership’s definitely getting faster, so I’m constantly adapting. Everybody knows each other’s game now, you can see how defenders approach you, sometimes they’ll drop-off because they know you’re quicker than them and they’ll give you a bit of space, or sometimes they’ll go tight hoping you won’t get a start on them. So you notice teams and how they play against you now. Do you see yourself playing abroad at any point in your career? I’ve never really thought about it but I’ve always said I wouldn’t mind playing abroad at some time in the future, but I don’t try to look too far ahead. I just take each game and each season as it comes. I just play it like that really. Who’s got the best music taste in the Tottenham dressing room? My iPod goes on a few times, but we share it to be fair, so if we get beat at the weekend somebody’s iPod will change to somebody else’s. It’s superstitious, but that’s how it is. Who’s got the most swag at Spurs? Mine ain’t bad to be fair. There are a few rascal ones, especially a few of the foreign players. I’d say [Vedran] Corluka is one

“GOING TO THE FIRST ONE WORLD CUP WAS A HIGHLIGHT. I’D JUST COME TO TOTTENHAM, SO TO GO WAS SUCH A MASSIVE STEP IN MY CAREER AND IT TAUGHT ME SO MUCH…” of them, he’ll just put anything together and he won’t care so... but yeah, he was probably the worst. And not bothered about it either; so it was funnier. How do you relax between matches? I just chill-out. Chill with my friends. Watch TV. FIFA at the minute is the one for all the boys, we play each other online all the time and sometimes when we travel as well. Are you looking forward to having the Olympics in London this summer? I could only go to 100 metres, I don’t think I could go any further than that, but yeah, it would be 100 metres only. I think I’d be alright. Obviously I don’t think I could compete with them guys, but I’d be ok. You’ve played for England, you’ve played in massive Champions League matches and you’ve won a trophy at Wembley... but what’s your overall career highlight? I would say going to the World Cup to be honest, especially the first one. I think at such a young age and I’d just come to Tottenham, it was like my first season. So to go was such a massive step in my career and it taught me so much and gave me so much experience just being around it. Obviously getting on as well was great and it helped me to develop as a player, just that first experience. Watch the full video interview with Aaron Lennon on RWDmag.com/sport

Aaron Lennon’s Tottenham Hotspur shirt-number.

The number of times Aaron Lennon has been capped by England.

Aaron Lennon was just 16 years and 129 days old when he made his Premier League debut for Leeds United, ironically against his current club, making him the youngest player to appear in the League.

The diminutive winger’s pace and low centre of gravity make him one of the most feared attacking players in the Premier League.

Aaron Lennon made his full England debut against Jamaica in a 6-0 win.

FAVOURITE THINGS

“I’M NOT AN EXPERT AT FOOTBALL, D’YA KNOW AFTER SIX YEARS I HAVE NO IDEA ABOUT IT, I’M AWFUL.”

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ABBEY CLANCY’S FAVOURITE THINGS FAVOURITE PLACE IN THE WORLD

My favourite place in the world is being at home with Pete and the baby, like being in all our snugs and sitting on the couch.

FAVOURITE RESTAURANT

Since I had the baby I can’t be bothered to cook (laughs). I’m quite a fan of gastropubs, I always have ham, egg and chips but I eat anything really. I like Hakkassan and The Grove Hotel.

FAVOURITE SONG

The best place to visit has got to be St. Barts, it’s just paradise. We went there on holiday a few years ago and absolutely loved it. Amazing beaches, amazing food, just amazing!

FAVOURITE DRINKING HOLE

I’m very lucky I’ve got a very close family who will mind the baby when I want to go out. In Liverpool, Playground is quite good and Panache, but to be honest I’m more of a fan of a local pub.

FAVOURITE FILM

I love True Romance. I watched a really good film last night, Contraband and I like Departed, American Gangster. I love fun films, Overboard, anything with Goldie Hawn but at the minute Beauty and The Beast is a fave. samcookephotography.com

Well me wedding song is up there! (laughs) That sounds so cheesy but it’s U2 Sometimes You Can’t Make It On Your Own - I feel really embarrassed saying that! But me favourite band in the world is me brother’s band.

FAVOURITE HOLIDAY DESTINATION

FAVOURITE SHOP

It’s more about the baby now, I absolutely love my fashion, like Helmut Lang and Alexander Wang, but I tend to steer away from anything which is dry clean only cos it only ends up covered in chocolate and food.

FAVOURITE FUTURE PROSPECT

I’m in the middle of bringing out my own ranges and meeting up with designers. I’m absolutely obsessed with bikinis and underwear so I’d like to bring out my own ranges.

Model, presenter, mother, wife, fashion fanatic, Abigail Clancy is used to hitting the headlines. Nardene Scott speaks to the stunning scouser about the things she actually likes - plus what’s next to add to the CV. image by Frank White @ matrixstudios.co.uk Relaxed and sipping on a strawberry daiquiri, Abbey is taking a quick break over in Spain when she drops RWD a call. The past year has seen Abbey juggling newfound motherhood, married life with Stoke City’s Peter Crouch and a whole load of other new enterprises, so we’ll cut the 26 year-old siren some slack. It was as a model that Abbey came to acclaim, featured on the covers of Esquire, FHM (three times), modelling the official England kit for Umbro and being featured in Sports Illustrated wearing a painted on England shirt! “I’m not an expert at football; after six years I have no idea about it, I’m awful,” she laughs. Then there was the copresenting of the late night World Cup programme in 2010 alongside James Corden...#LeaveItYeah.

LIVERPOOL IS ALWAYS A FUN NIGHT OUT BECAUSE PEOPLE ARE ALWAYS REALLY FRIENDLY AND IT’S A GOOD ATMOSPHERE. “When Pete comes home he totally switches off because he keeps his work at work and so do I, we’re just a family to be honest,” Clancy points out, which is fair enough. Although the leggy blonde doesn’t need to console the two metre tall striker being missed out of the England squad this year, she still points out that Crouch “Deserves it; he’s played really well.” Looking forward to their upcoming honeymoon after Pete’s career got in the way of the pair getting away last year, he’s set to splurge on a luxury trip of his choice on their first anniversary this month. “It’s his thing, so I think I’ll leave it up to him to surprise me,” the cover girl says excitedly. Follow @OfficialClancy

INTERVIEW MAYA JANE COLES

UP IN THE HOUSE Last year saw the London producer/DJ receive just about every credible accolade she could dream of; Nardene Scott speaks to house music’s No. 1, Maya Jane Coles, about her plans for 2012, being added to the SW4 line up, breathing some life into house music and her amazing new compilation... On plans for 2012... All the festivals are coming up now so I’m gonna be here, there and everywhere, gig wise. I definitely didn’t expect all that happened in 2011 but I couldn’t be happier about it. I’d been working towards it for so long, but I thought it would be just another year of trying to push things forward. On SW4 festival... It’s always nice playing events on your home turf. You get to have all your friends there and have a proper party and you can really feel the love. SW4 will be one of my biggest London gigs to date, so I’m looking forward to it. On producing... It’s mad to think I’ve been producing music for almost a decade. I’ve always listened and taken influence from so many different areas. I’ve never really just stuck to one thing, I did get into production through hip hop, but when I started partying and hearing good underground house I got inspired to create my own take on it. There’s a lot more different sounds to come. On Have Your Say... I don’t know really why it had such a widespread appeal. I just like making music without thinking about who’s gonna buy it. I don’t wanna try and fit into a certain scene or do stuff to suit people’s taste. I just want to make music that I love and hope that others will enjoy it just as much. On house music now... House is such a broad genre and there are so many different scenes within it, so I think that freedom attracts a wide audience. There’s something for everyone. The simplicity of four to the floor leaves so much space for everything else so you can really go wherever you want with the genre. It’s really cool to see more underground acts reaching out to bigger audiences recently too. On her upcoming debut album... 64 / RWDMAG.COM

“I JUST LIKE MAKING MUSIC WITHOUT THINKING ABOUT WHO’S GONNA BUY IT. I DON’T WANNA TRY AND FIT INTO A CERTAIN SCENE OR DO STUFF TO SUIT PEOPLE’S TASTE” It’s mostly song based electronica, with a hint of club influence. It’s fairly bass heavy and beats driven, but very melodic and moody. I have some really exciting guests and I’m also doing a lot of the vocals. It’s really personal music and it’s not aimed at the dancefloor. On being an instrumentalist... If I didn’t have that side of it my music wouldn’t be the same. In the dance music world there are a lot of producers that just use loops and presets. There’s nothing wrong with that, if that’s what you do but I like to create everything and enjoy the actual compositional side of making music. On her remix game... I’ve just done one for Lianne La Havas and there’s one coming up for Florence + The Machine. I really love working with female vocals. Anything strong or unique. I like remixing stuff outside of my scene and taking it in a different direction. I’ve had to say no to a lot of stuff I’ve wanted to do which sucks, but you can’t do everything! On her DJ Kicks compilation... I got approached by K7 after they’d seen me play out. I’d always been a fan of the series so I felt really honoured. I wanted the mix to reflect my diversity as a producer. The series isn’t just about house music, each one is about the artist in their own right and their story. Maya Jane Coles DJ-Kicks compilation is out now through !K7 Records. For more information please visit mayajanecoles.com and @mjcofficial

SW4 Maya Jane Coles isn’t the only one taking the stage this August at SW4; the Clapham Common fest is spread over the Bank Holiday weekend (August 25 - 26) with guests including Skream & Benga, Skrillex, 2ManyDJ’s and Chase & Status amongst house legends Roger Sanchez and Carl Cox. It’s gonna go offfffff. Head to southwestfour. com for tickets.

COMPLETE THE SENTENCE The craziest thing I’ve done at a festival is... Hmm it’s probably too explicit to say. My most memorable festival experience was... Watching Björk last year at Bestival was pretty epic. My festival drink of choice... Depends on the weather... Sangria? That’s a summery favourite. My groupie situation... Maybe a few. Male and female. The track I wished I could have made is... Portishead, Sour Times. My favourite place in the world is... Home. If I could have a special power it would be... To teleport so I never have to waste time at airports again when travelling to gigs.

INTERVIEW DISCLOSURE

BROTHER’S IN ARMS…

Whether it’s niche blogs or national radio, brothers Guy and Howard Lawrence aka Disclosure are bringing their take on dance music to a new audience every day. Nardene Scott Skype’s the pair to chat about their rise in popularity, unusual sporting background, diverse influences and their addictive new EP... Photography by Michaela Letang

It’s not often that plays on Soundcloud reach into the hundreds of thousands, especially when compared to the meagre 6K Twitter followers that the dance duo have so far, but Disclosure seem to have fans all across the world. “Last month we had more plays in America than we did in the UK, and we’ve never even been there,” says younger sibling Howard. Howard and his brother Guy have been working together musically since forever, picking up the sound and name Disclosure around two years ago; they kicked things off with the subdued Offline Dexterity on Moshi Moshi and then the likes of soulfully jazzy cut I Love...That You Know and the feel good grooves of Flow. The duo are more interested in developing their musical skills than churning out tunes, the current EP being only their third release. “We’ve both just been learning to play our instruments. Guy’s been playing drums and guitar and I’ve been playing bass and piano,” the instrumentalist tells us of the dedication to developing their sound. Brought up around ‘80s tunes drip fed from the Londoner’s parents plus a love for UK dance music partnered with old skool hip hop, you’d think it would be hard for them to pick a major influence in their productions. “We listen to A LOT of J Dilla that’s probably a big influence in terms of production... in terms of the sounds he used and his mixes,” they say, before continuing. “We took Joy Orbison style synth sounds, Dilla-esque beats with a garage sound. We wanted to mix all of that into one sound.” What helps tie in all of these influences and imprint that Disclosure stamp on tracks has to do with the

choice of vocal features. “I think we just go for people that we get on with and have similar interests... with Sinead [Hartnett], she listens to a lot of garage and we do as well. And also, her great voice was definitely a factor,” 18 yearold Howard explains of the lusciously soul tinged house number Boiling taken from the new EP The Face. From the aforementioned Boiling to the summery Lividup and arguably amazing What’s In Your Head, we think it’s impossible to question the recent Greco Roman release, other than we’d love even more tracks please! Before we let them go, we have to mention touring with SBTRKT (“Amazing”) and of course the Jessie Ware Running remix - but we’re told remixes aren’t part of the plan right now. “I think we’re doing one for the rest of this year... It’s not a big current artist but you’ll definitely know them. Classic pop. We’re gonna revive something for the summer.” Having happily been part of Radio 1’s underground bass documentary, the labelling of music isn’t important to them as long as you don’t call it bass music. “If I had to explain to my nan what we make, I’d just say we make electronic dance music, simple as, you can sub-genre it however you please,” the newly legal drinker says, setting the record straight. You can catch the electronic dance musicians playing out everywhere from Poland to the French Riviera and Ibiza where Guy celebrates his 21st birthday very soon, probably eating cheese and ham with a tipple or two of Grey Goose “We’re so tame on the rider” - until then buying The Face EP isn’t a bad shout. @disclosure_uk

“IF I HAD TO EXPLAIN TO MY NAN WHAT WE MAKE, I’D SAY ELECTRONIC DANCE MUSIC, SIMPLE AS YOU CAN SUB-GENRE IT HOWEVER YOU PLEASE...”

AFROBEATS

BEAT THAT!

It’s the sound that’s breaking around the world right now; hailing from Nigeria, Afrobeats is Africa’s answer to grime, dubstep, hip hop and every other club-based sub-culture that ends up hitting the mainstream. We meet the star of the scene and one of its leading DJ’s to find out more about its incoming invasion... For those who know nothing about Afrobeats, can you explain the vibe? Afrobeats is amazing and is uniquely African. But I don’t really want to call it Afrobeats because if you look at music in general today, the rap of the ‘90s is different from the rap we have now, and the same goes for R&B and other genres. When Afrobeats was called Afrobeat the pioneer was the late Fela Anikulapo Kuti. What he stood for was beyond measure and he is celebrated for it now and will continue to be celebrated all around the world. For my own generation, Afrobeat has evolved; I would like to call my genre Afro-pop. Oliver Twist is a break down from Afrobeat but it’s also pop. That is the kind of music that I do now and it’s what I stand for. I’m letting everybody know that this is our own African culture and we still sound so “now”. You lived in the UK for some time. Where did you work to support your music hustle? I tried to do music here ohh, I was working hard. I thought I was going to blow quickly. I thought I was going to

D’BANJ Meet D’Banj, the self-proclaimed ‘African Michael Jackson’ who’s getting everybody hyped in clubs and on the airwaves with his newest track Oliver Twist. Co-signed by Kanye West, and signed to Mercury/ Universal, the Nigerian mic-destroyer who describes his sound as Afro Pop, is part of the reason why Afrobeats is breaking into western consciousness Words by Danai Mavunga. Images by Verena Stefanie

“I DON’T WANT TO SOUND ARROGANT, BUT I KIND OF FEEL LIKE I’M ONE OF THE BEST MUSICIANS IN THE WORLD. I JUST HAVE TO PROVE IT NOW. THAT’S IT.” For those who still don’t know; can you tell RWD who you are and where you are from? [Shouts] I’M D’BANJ! I am an entertainer from Nigeria. I entertain people. That’s what I do. My music is from the genre of Afrobeats. It’s good music with an African accent that brings joy to all. I have a single called Oliver Twist out 14 May.

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become Craig David now, now, now. I thought that being here in London would make it happen fast and my music career would click into place. But it was so hard. I ended up doing security and I did Mcdonald’s... Hearing Oliver Twist on the radio was my first time yesterday, and it was really emotional. What was going through your mind the moment Kanye hung his GOOD

“FOR MY OWN GENERATION, AFROBEAT HAS EVOLVED; I WOULD LIKE TO CALL MY GENRE AFRO-POP.”

Music chain around your neck at Hammersmith Apollo last year? (Shows his blinged out Jesus piece) He didn’t tell me about the chain. He surprised me. I didn’t know he was coming and when he came onstage I was stunned. I was so excited and I just went into performance mode but behind my glasses I did shed a tear. When he put the chain around my neck, it was real. I was just thanking God. I didn’t want that moment to end. How did you guys meet? I met Kanye in Dubai. I had a concert out there. So on my way out I pulled up at the airport with my entourage at the first class entrance. At that point the Emirate’s woman came running up to me with the airhostess and she had a plaque, which said ‘Mr. Kanye West’ on it. Maybe it’s because of the way I was dressed... (brushes his shoulders). I said ‘It’s not me, I’m D’Banj’. But I knew that meant Kanye West was coming. Opportunity comes but once so don’t dull yourself. We were at check-in when we saw him. So my manager quite confidently went up and spoke to him and Kanye gave me five minutes, five minutes became 30 minutes and so on. He listened to all my songs and liked my sound. What’s Kanye’s favourite D’Banj track? I can’t say just yet because it’s the next single after Oliver Twist and Kanye is on it so keep your ears open. Oliver Twist has become a big tune over here. How did that happen? God! I don’t know who the DJ is or whoever submitted the playlist, but I’m looking for that person because I need to personally thank them. I never come here during winter, but that is what brought me back. It was then that I heard that the UK music industry was looking for me. From Taponeswa at

Atlantic Records to Semtex at Universal I had no clue that the UK was interested. Many people have covered your track, which is your favourite? I like Ryan Parrett and the Rumours version and Sneakbo. I like Skepta and Estelle’s too... I like all of them. What I like about Estelle’s one is that she’s telling everyone that she’s an African sistaaaa! It’s such a big step for the African music scene in general. I’m so excited and I just can’t wait and I’m so humbled to be chosen to be on this platform. What can we expect from Wireless and Hackney Weekender performances? You can expect to see an entertainer. The African Michael Jackson they call me. Those that know me will know what I’m going to bring, but those who don’t, just be ready to be entertained and have an open mind. What British artists do you like? Tinie Tempah. I’ve never met him but I’m impressed with the way he has worked. Everybody knows that I am an entertainer and I am not just about the music alone - I’m also into fashion. So for him to incorporate Disturbing London as well, I was really impressed. I like Labrinth, I like Jessie J, and I like Adele and Amy Winehouse, there’s so many to say. Who would you like to work with next? I’m already working with so many people; I cannot wait for everybody to hear what I am working on with Mr. Hudson. He is my G.O.O.D Music brother. He is already teaching me how to drink tea and eat English breakfast, and I am teaching him how to eat some pounded yam and we will live forever young. But please expect some fantastic collaborations very soon. I can’t say much just yet but just stay tuned. Olive Twist is out now. @dbanj

DJ NEPTIZZLE DJ Neptizzle is one of Afrobeats leading DJ’s; if you need a full audio explanation into the scene, just grab his mixtape Azonto to be enlightened. Hattie Collins catches up with the London living Vietnamese DJ... How does a guy from Vietnam, living in London, end up DJing African music!? I guess I’m just a product of my society. I was raised in Hackney and 99% of my friends were either African or Caribbean. I started out heavily into the grime scene in 2003, when one of my boys introduced me properly to High Life/Hip Life. He gave me a week to learn the tracks as he wanted me to DJ at his event. A week later I dropped it at the party and the crowd response was crazy. From then on I was hooked. What’s a typical Afrobeats night like? It’s a party vibe so expect champagne bottles, beautiful women and serious dance moves from the beginning till security kicks you out. Tell us about your Azonto mixtape. The thing about the music is, even if you don’t understand the lyrics, the underlying thing is dancing. This is party music. So I don’t need to say anything... download my mixtape and dance. Azonto is a type of dance that originated in Ghana...It’s a call and response type vibe and anyone who starts doing it will get hooked. So be warned, you will be azontoing to everything here on after. Check out an exclusive Wretch 32 remix to a very popular song on the mix CD too. Wretch goes in! Dbanj is looking to be this year’s big breakthrough. Who else should we be checking out? Dbanj is definitely the guy to bring Afrobeats into the mainstream. He also has a great producer behind him in Don Jazzy who is an absolute genius. Also, check out Tiwa Savage and Wizkid. These guys are massive! Where can people next see you play? I am constantly up and down the UK, be sure to come down and dance to some Afrobeats. Hotter Than You on 22 June at Hysteria in Dalston. Make sure you come down! DJNeptizzle.com and @djneptizzle

UNWIND GADGETS | GAMES | FILMS | GIG GUIDE >>

THE BEST OF STAYING IN... AND GOING OUT... As you know J and K are back in their Primark suits and are ready to take on the world (and beings from other worlds). This trip back to the ‘60s is all about discovery, and with Josh Brolin’s excellent portrayal of a young Tommy Lee Jones, only time will tell if viewers think it’s better (or even just as good) as the original classic.

’RE THEY... IN BACK E! TIM

>> 71

UNWIND RWDMAG.COM/FILM-AND-TV

FILMS With so much sport on this summer, remember to take a break from time to time... The Raid Momentum Cert 18 Rarely do you see a trailer for a virtually unknown film (with no stars, overhyped blog buzz or unearthly Hollywood budget) and still have the same excitement to see it almost a year later. It takes a special film to keep us coming back to that same clip and that’s what this action-packed fight-a-thon is. It’s actually hard to describe the brilliance of Gareth Evans’ The Raid, apart from its absolutely ruthless from suspensefilled-start-to-furious-finish. With every other fight scene involving a Mortal Kombat-style finishing move it’s also hard to say which hapless henchman gets it the worst (maybe the goon who has the clip emptied into his temple from a millimetre away #stoptheviolence). Despite being outnumbered about 100 to one; out of energy, ammo and backup, SWAT team solider Rama does very well in this nod to John Woo’s Hard Boiled. Great lighting, cinematography and incredible hand to hand combat... Asian cinema at its finest. 72 / RWDMAG.COM

MEN IN BLACK IN NUMBERS

The number of years Agent J travels back in time in Men In Black 3

Men In Black 3 Columbia Pictures Cert PG There’s nothing left for Agent J (Will Smith) and Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones) to do with this franchise, right? Surely the writers have run out of one-liners by now, right? You couldn’t be more wrong as the third film in this ever-popular series involves a trip back to 1969 to answer all of those questions. In fact there’s LOADS for them to do; round-up suspicious aliens, discover why K is so weird and generally save the world one lame joke at a time. Unworldly 3D, out of this world cast, terrestrial story.

The number of likes Willard Christopher Smith, Jr. aka Will Smith has got on Facebook. By the time MIB3 comes out it will be at 31m+ as it currently stands at 30,985,731.

ADVANCE PREVIEWS

This was the year the original Men In Black came out, it made $84,133,900 in its opening weekend of 6 July.

Prometheus 20th Century Fox Cert 15 – Out 1 June 2012 Fans of Ridley Scott’s Alien films will be pleased to know that their film of year/ decade is shaping up nicely. With all the right names involved (Michael Fassbender, Charlize Theron and our very own Idris “Luther” Elba) this might just go down as a few people’s favourites. After watching trailers, extended trailers (see RWDmag.com for yours), this nonprequel/ sequel, that smells like a sequel of a prequel, might just have its very own sequel. Dark, cinematic and bloody scary... just how we like it.

Victim Kaleidoscope Entertainment Cert TBC – Out 8 June 2012 We’ve already given you a few heads-up to this gritty Jason Maza, Ashley Chin and Michael Maris starring thought provoker which also features great support from Letita Wright (Top Boy), David Harewood (Homeland) and Anna Nightingale (former RWD One To Watch). Packed with powerful performances from the UK’s next wave of film stars, this is one to check out.

This is the date principal photography began on the film in New York City in 2010. Just over 18 months from when Men in Black 3 was announced.

The year the U.S. government finally owned up to Area 51; who knows there might be some real alien chasers working there.

UNWIND RWDMAG.COM/GAMING

GAMES When you’re not watching footy, make sure you play Burning Skies this month... PREVIEW

MONTHLY MUST PLAY Resistance: Burning Skies Foosball 2012 Coming Soon Grip Games PS3, PSV We don’t know when it’s out or if it will ever be out, or if it will be any good but something tells us Foosball 2012 will be a pick-up-andplay classic. That or a really, really bad piece of cow dung not even Roy Hodgson could fix. Either way it might just entertain those who dreamed of owning a foosball table (after watching Chandler and Joey have so much fun) for about nine minutes. Exactly the same amount of time it takes to calm down after England go out of Euro 2012 on penalties.

Sony PSV It’s 1951 and Europe has fallen. America is keeping its people in the dark, but there are those who know, and those who know are sure they’re next. So when an unexplained explosion draws Tom Riley’s firetruck to a building in New York, it comes as quite a surprise to our hero, who has to save a colleague from the grips of a seven foot alien Chimera, armed with a comparatively pitiful axe. Burning Skies answers so many questions about the capability of the PS Vita and offers as satisfying a handheld game as we’ve known; we’d go as far as to call it a must play.

Sleeping Dogs Coming Soon Grip Games PS3, PSV This open world title – set in the hustle and bustle of Hong Kong – sees shoot-outs, big bad fisticuffs and all kinds of adrenaline action fired from your screen. As the role of Wei Shen, the undercover cop, your job is to single-handedly take everyone down by any means necessary. With combos, kicks and a myriad of takedowns there’s no way this should be laid to rest, although we’re not quite sure about the graphics, playability and stories. This is an interesting one.

Score! Classic Goals First Touch Publishing LTD iOS It takes a special kind of game to capture the hearts, minds and attention spans of the RWD office. Once again a simple-yet-brilliant game has done just that. Utilising the ‘classic goals’ of yesteryear – like Beckham’s amazing World Cup qualifying free kick against Greece, Michael Owen’s (remember him) defence confusing, knife-throughbutter-like goal versus Argentina and bucktooth Ronaldinho’s angle defying shot that somehow beat David Seaman – Score! is enjoyable, addictive and informative. A little repetitive in places but what can you do.

LIVE REVIEW: CONVERSE BLOCK PARTY

THE BLOCK IS HOT When we see line ups, we don’t normally get that excited. But the Converse Block Party had a setlist to end all setlists...! Having teased the main event with MC clashes up and down the UK over the past few weeks, we got ourselves down sharpish to the London event...

The Old Vic Tunnels is fast becoming the revellers haunt of choice so naturally the underground party mecca was the ideal spot for the Converse Block Party. On entering we turned a corner to find a customised skate ramp and a tunnel dedicated to live graffiti. Throw in the mix a load of Converse clad grime fans on a daytime skanking session, and it felt a lot like what would go down at only the very best block party back in the day. With performances from Mic Righteous, Lady Leshurr and Clement Marfo & The Frontline who all lit up the stage, as well as an explosive MC clash, DJ Rattus Rattus was on hand to ensure revellers were kept on their feet in-between acts. Stopping

briefly to devour some of the tasty jerk chicken, we discarded the barbie for a special set from DJ Magic (No Hats No Hoods) alongside some of grime’s finest, including Kozzie and Scrufizzer who hyped up the crowd before Mz. Bratt stepped up to represent for the ladies. Next minute there was a Bluku Bluku from the back of the stage meaning only one thing; the Newham Generals had arrived. D Double E packed his set to the brim with big hits before finishing with a little honorary bogle. Footsie followed up with his own bangers backed up by his partner in crime, as both MC’s gave the crowd exactly what they desired - grime! BBK legend Skepta ran through too many tunes, taking it all the way

“D DOUBLE AND FOOTSIE, CLADDED OUT IN THEIR CONVERSE HOODIES, GAVE THE CROWD EXACTLY WHAT THEY DESIRED GRIME!”

back for his original fans with a brainblowing freestyle set. P Money did what he does best, rhyming along to wobbles and bass brilliantly. Despite incredible performances from the aforementioned, we have to give Wiley the title of Man of the Match! The Godfather of grime impressed Converse Block Party goers with ease, delivering the perfect end to an incredible event; massive thanks to Converse for putting on a crazy event that is definitely the best we’ve seen down at the Old Vic Tunnels... and trust us, that’s saying something...! Head to converseblockparty.com to see exactly what you missed.

UNWIND WITH BENGA BENGA BREAKS DOWN A BIT OF THE NEW ALBUM. I Will Never Change “That track means a lot to me. I spent days and days mixing it until I got the punch exactly right. It might send me mental but ultimately it’s about the weight, the fatness and the punch. I spend days finding new and clever ways to get that balance. Open Your Eyes That’s Benga from 2007 but in 2020. It’s really hard... really, really hard. I’m trying to push it, to see what people make of me doing a major label record with some edgy, raw sounds. Some of the record is pop, but I’ve also done some really hard, mental songs. All Your Love That features a fairly new singer called Marlene Strand. She was unknown, she just sung on that record and now everyone wants to sign her. I’d love to say that I found her, but it was [publisher] Guy Moot at EMI. He put me in touch with her. I really like her. Yellow That was the first song I made that made me feel like I was back on the album vibe. I don’t know why... I probably hummed it into my phone, that’s what I normally do when I get an idea.

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Unwind With BENGA

In fact, besides his mate Skream, Benga is the last man on earth we reckon gets much time to chill out. When he’s not presenting a show on BBC Radio 1 or releasing amazing new singles, he’s working on his own solo album as well as Magnetic Man albums and touring the world as a superstar DJ. Hattie Collins has a quick catch-up with the dubstep don...

“I EXPECTED MAGNETIC MAN TO DO BETTER TO BE HONEST, WHICH DID MY HEAD IN A BIT. I HAVE HIGH EXPECTATIONS I SUPPOSE, I’M REALLY AMBITIOUS.”

What’s going on! I just got back from LA. I’ve been producing for people out there. Basically I went into the studio with loads of people and never got anything done (laughs). Certain days I’d end up having a drink at 2pm and then I’d end up drunk and wasting the whole day. It’s a weird city like that. I did end up doing three tracks though; I did a song with Example, one with Kelis and another with Autumn Rowe. Whether they will be for my album or theirs though, we’ll have to see. We saw on Twitter that you’ve hollered at Ed Sheeran too. He hit me up yesterday after that Twitter thing actually so I sent him a song. He likes it so hopefully we can make that happen. Who else would you like to work with? Keith from Prodigy. I bumped into them a few times but I could never get them to do anything. I have the beat they want. Maybe I should just Tweet at them. I’ve kinda got used to telling everyone what I’m thinking now, it feels weird when I’m not Tweeting (laughs). How do you feel about being solo again after working with Magnetic Man? Well I had an album ready a while ago but I had to hold it back because some beats and stuff were needed for Magnetic Man. It took me a while then after that to get onto this album because I had so much on... I expected Magnetic Man to do better to be honest, which did my head in a bit. A lot of the music was amazing, I don’t know. I have high expectations I suppose, I’m really ambitious.

What’s the worst DJ set you’ve done? The worst thing that’s happened to me - it was horrible... I left my house to go to Russia to do my own 5000 people headline show and left my CDs at home. I was at the airport and I had to get on it and burn tunes off my laptop. I ended up with four CDs with no writing on... it was real Russian roulette (laughs). I ran out of music as well and I had to play for an hour and a half. I was so ready to smash it and they were so up for it as well. I think I crowd surfed around eight times and had to play Nirvana twice! I got away with it... I think. What are you making these days? Dubstep? Bass? Something else? I’m not afraid to say that my music’s dubstep. Other people are. I don’t care. They can call it whatever they wanna call it. I’ve always just made this mental music from pretty much day one. What were your thoughts on Skrillex winning at the Grammy’s? Looking at Skrillex, this is the beginning of where we can take it. Where he’s taken it, we can better that. We’ve brought it to this stage, to a place not many people thought possible and what Skrillex has done, people didn’t see that as possible. It’s like, what’s next? Massive stadium shows? If we wanna do that, we can take it there. Where do you want to take it? I want to do private jet living (laughs). And I want awards, I want to win a Mercury. I want to do things that producers don’t normally do. I don’t want to sound arrogant, but I kind of feel like I’m one of the best musicians in the world. I just have to prove it now. That’s it. Icon is out 24 June. The album, Chapter 2, is due 27 August. @benga for all tour dates, release info and random thoughts from the man himself... 79

CHARLOTTE DEVANEY x HERCULES

CHARLOTTEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WEB Despite having a schedule that often spins out of control, Danny Walker managed to catch up with DJ/ producer/ actress/ model Charlotte Devaney to talk Hollywood and narni shaking and to test out the latest club-ready gadgets from Hercules... Photorgaphy by Odi Caspi 80 / RWDMAG.COM

I NEED AIR Charlotte gets to grips with the Hercules DJ Controller AIR...

What goes on in the world of a DJ, producer, actress, model and animal lover? [Laughs] Well loads actually. This week I’ve been doing promo for my new track Nice, which is coming out on new label Stone Village Records and also working on a new track, features Snoop Dogg. As well as that I’ve done a shoot for a new charity calendar. Charity calendar sounds good. Which do you enjoy doing more? I love everything creative! We know you as the face/ creator of the Narni Shakers, various industries must have changed over the years... Narni Shakers is where it all started for me, and the company, run by myself and Kirstie, is still going strong. As well as being a successful dance agency, I take the girls all over the world with me when I’m DJing. The industry has changed so much over the years, I’ve seen so many girls come and go; things are definitely harder for everyone these days due to the global recession. We just watched THAT clip of you acting in How to Lose Friends starring Simon Pegg – how did that come about and what did you learn from the experience? I got a call from my agent saying about a role in a Hollywood film and the directors were really interested in me... The only thing though... I had to wear a prosthetic penis [laughs], ‘I’ll do it,’ I said. I have no shame and am a general joker so I jumped at the chance! I had a

“I HAD TO WEAR A PROSTHETIC PENIS [LAUGHS], ‘I’LL DO IT,’ I SAID. I JUMPED AT THE CHANCE!” great experience filming and everyone I worked with was amazing including Simon Pegg who’s a great guy. I got a great insight into how a huge film like that is put together. What’s next acting-wise? A British film called My Horrible Love. Talk us through a typical DJ set... I play a mix of hip hop/ R&B, funky commercial house and slamming electro as well as hosting the mic in some clubs; my Narni Shaking roots will always be there! What’s the worst chat up line you’ve heard from a guy? Wow now you’re asking, over the years many men have tried many different ways to impress me and get my attention - the best probably being one time a guy in a van crashed into a lamppost as he was looking at me instead of the road [laughs]. Will you be watching Euro 2012? Probably not, football bores me. For more check djcharlottedevaney. com and narnishakers.com

We hear you like technology, are you a real fan of gadgets? Which is your favourite one? I love gadgets I have an iPad, iPhone, Macbook Pro, BlackBerry, Straighteners (of course). I think my phones are my favourite gadgets as they are glued to my hand most of the time. What are your views on digital controllers like the Hercules DJ Controller AIR... I think they are great for house parties and events where you don’t want to have the hassle of carrying all the heavy equipment. I have also seen DJ’s using them in clubs so I think if you get used to them they’re great. I really liked the AIR and would definitely consider using it in the future, very neat, compact and does a great job. We thought the Hercules Controller was pretty sick, in fact we love the crossfader and the size... It was great and considering how small it is, it worked just as well as a normal set of decks and a mixer, I could cue up and mix just as well as on my setup at home; yeah, the crossfader was fast, I really liked it. So you’ve been been Djing for the longest time, can you give us any tips? Hard work, dedication and love of music is all you need!

SNOWBOMBING

SNOWBOMBING 2012 9TH– 13TH MAY For the second year in a row we were blown away by the sheer class of the event and also the amazing line up that over delivered. It’s always reassuring to be amongst the cream of the world’s finest DJs and entertainers with no hang ups or inhibitions. Casually strolling around like every day people. You can walk around the town and quite easily bump in to Artwork, Benga, Ben Westbeach, Pat Sharp. I can only recommend to not smoke in the vicinity of Mister Motivator, wow. Too many high lights to mention including Urban Nerds Rompa Reggae Shack and their amazing night with Marcus, Shy FX who smashed the tunes literally. The Back Country gigs were outstanding with Labrynth, Dizzee Rascal, Mistajam, Squeaky & Raffle Mafia the ultimate entertainers. Looking forward to SB13.

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FINAL WORD MARCO MATERAZZI

FINAL WORD: MARCO MATERAZZI Say Marco Materazzi to a room full of football fans and it’s likely that the first thing they mention is “that head-butt” in the 2006 World Cup final. But the Italian legend has a trophy cabinet that tells a different story [five Serie A titles, four Copa Italias, a Champions League winners medal and of course; a World Cup]. While in Munich for the Champions League final Tego Sigel grabbed for his Final Word... Who do you think are the favourites at Euro 2012? I think Germany and Spain and afterwards Italy, France, England and Holland. What, no England? Who are you expecting to be the key players in Ukraine and Poland? Cristiano [Ronaldo] and [Antonio] Cassano. Cassano because he’s a very strong player and he’s a very good friend of mine, he’s my brother. Cristiano because he’s really strong too. So what do you make of Italy’s squad this summer? I am happy about Italy’s team at Euro 2012 because we had a lot of handicaps, with Cassano, who had heart problems, [Guisseppe] Rossi is handicapped too, but there are other very important players like Mario Balotelli who can make a difference and score a lot of goals. You played with Mario Balotelli so you’ll know better than most, how crazy is he? He’s not crazy, he’s just a child, but he’s very strong. He’s also my brother. I hit him as well once. In the face and everywhere. But now he is a friend and 84 / RWDMAG.COM

he talks about me, a few times he’s done interviews where he talks about me and that means that he likes me. It’s

takes time and playing and winning in the Champions League takes time. You only lasted one year in the

“HE’S NOT CRAZY (BALOTELLI), HE’S JUST A CHILD, BUT HE’S VERY STRONG.” the same with my son. Italian football seems to be coming out of a pretty rough-patch; do you think it will ever be the dominant force it once was? I think nowadays, with the crisis that we’re living in, the countries who pays less taxes will be able to pay the better players. So Spain and England are fortunate to get the best players. Do you think Manchester City can pushon and be one of the biggest clubs in Europe next season? They won in the last minute, but they’ve improved step-by-step. I still think this season Manchester City are far stronger than Manchester United, even if Manchester United are raising so many young players. But it’s difficult to build a very good team in just one year, so it

Premier League; why do you think so few Italians have been successful in England? It’s not easy. It depends on which team you play for. At Chelsea, Zola won, Vialli won, also Di Matteo. Do you still follow Everton? I still follow [Everton]. They had a few strong years and this year wasn’t so good. But I’m still following them. I came to the UK too young, my son was just six months-old. I left too quickly. Maybe I had to leave a little bit later. What do you think Inter Milan needs to do to challenge for the title next season? Everything they didn’t do this year. The Chance is a talent search designed to find 16 undiscovered footballers. Go to nikefootball.com for more info