Issue 120 - February 2012 - Labrinth

MUSIC STYLE SPORT GAMING FILM TECH NEWS

february 2012

LABRINTH A Head of the Rest...

EDITOR’S LETTER

Editor Deputy Editor Senior Staff Writer Contributing Editor Online Editor Contributors

image by Jake Green

There’s nothing like a brand new year to feel like a brand new you. 2012 is here, so it’s time to leave all that nonsense and bad habits and dark times far behind in 2011. This year we have loads of exciting developments at RWD. Website, RWD TV, tours, tournaments, apps, album, mixtape... there’s a lot to look forward to over the next 12 months.

One other, non-RWD related something we’re anticipating is the debut album from the supertalented young man that we have on the cover this issue. Labrinth’s Back! After causing seismic tremors with his Tinie featuring smash Earthquake, we expect Lab’s album to be off the richter scale! We caught up with Timothy McKenzie to find out what he has in store for us, our ears, and the popular music charts in 2012.

Lab isn’t the only person to keep your eyes on this year. We first featured her back in 2006, but now Charli XCX is signed and ready to blow. Another girl we’ve waited (and waited and waited) to release is the incredible Rita Ora. We’re almost scared by how big this chick will be in the coming months. Huge. Massive. Youngman is also a name for you to drop if you want to look ahead of the rest; working with Skream and Benga, this Sony-signed singer is sickity sick, as are production outfit TMS. Dappy, Pro Green, Tinchy... you name it, they’ve produced them. Outside of music, we catch up with the cast of Skins (when we could stop them all snogging each other during our photoshoot!), the InBetweener’s Emily Atack, Olympic athlete and painter Vanessa Raw, footballer Ashley Young, actor David Gyasi and the inimitable Warwick Davis of Life’s Too Short fame. All this and fashion, news, books, gadgets as well as a catch-up with RWD’s oldest and dearest pal Dynamo.

2012 just got that much more brilliant!

RWD TEAM @hattiecollins @dannywalker1 @Nardenescott @chantellefiddy @tegosigel Alex Johnson, Ralph Hardy, Greg Bond, Francesca Dunn, Jerry Gadiano, Natasha Parris, ‘Lil’ Jake Walker

Art Director Dacre J. Bracey Designer Chidi Ubani Fashion Stylists PC Williams, Neesha Sharma, Style Pages Editors Irene Asanji Sophie Robinson Style Assistant Cheyenne Davide Illustrators Art Jaz, Jiro Bevis, David Flanagan Photographers James Pearson-Howes, Andres Reynega, Response London, Adrian Nettleship, Verena Stefanie Grotto, Simeon Coates, James Carnegie, Ravi Sidhu, Kieran Pharoah Publisher Sales Director Senior Sales Opperations Mngr Thanks

Nigel Wells Paul LeFevre Matthew Richards Martin Ferguson Bob Austin

CONTACT RWD

@hattiecollins

CONTRIBUTOR OF THE MONTH JAKE WALKER Despite being called ‘Aaron’ for 23 hours and causing his mother and father – our very own Deputy Editor and CEO of Fun – a little bit of stress on arrival, this little bundle of food-loving joy, Jake Walker, has already had an eventful life. Contributing to the magazine in the only way he knows how, a gurgling critic of the last issue, the colic controller has the world at his feet. “He can be anything he wants to be,” a drained Danny divulges, “as long as he just sleeps through the night soon... please, just sleep through the night.”

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

CONTENTS 02/01/2012

REGULARS

FEATURES

8-9 10-11 12 14-17 18-21

INBOX 1&2 CHECK IN/ CHECK OUT ENOUGH ALREADY: THE SUGABABES ADISLAM ASICS ONE TO WATCH: RITA ORA, GUILTZ, MATTHEW WALKER, CHARLI XCX, C4 22-23 ABOUT TO BLOW WITH *ECKÕ UNLTD: YOUNGMAN 24-25 UPFRONT: ASHLEY COLE 66 FINAL WORD: WARWICK DAVIES

42-45 46-47 48-51 52-53 54 56

STYLE GUIDE

UNWIND

27-31 TROUSERS 32-39 FASHION STORY: MELLOW FELLOW 40-41 FASHION NEWS

59-61 GAMES 62-63 UNWIND INTERVIEW: DAVID GYASI 64 FILMS

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COVER STORY: LABRINTH VANESSA RAW SKINS DYNAMO TMS FONC

INBOX

After tucking away all that turkey and clearing those New Year’s hangovers you still managed to send us comments, complaints and emails. The best comes from Sean from Leeds who wins Sony’s Acid Pro 7 software, ideal for all you budding producers out there...

Send all your letters to: Attn. Editor, RWD Magazine, W107 Holywell Centre, 1 Phipp Street, London, EC2A 4PS or staff@RWDmag.com Lawrence family for sticking in there for so long, it just goes to show good will always prevail over evil - RWD Team

LETTER OF THE MONTH:

Re: Stephen Lawrence First I’d just like to say Happy New Year to all the staff at RWD. Today after 18 years two people have been brought to justice for the killing of Stephen Lawrence. After 18 long years for his family they have finally got justice of some sort.

Having grown up with this case what stands out for me is the strength and courage of a mother throughout the past 18 years. Doreen Lawrence has tirelessly campaigned for justice for her son and family and has never even contemplated giving up. Even when the first trial collapsed due to lack of evidence she still kept fighting and striving for justice.

I think we can all learn a lot from the perseverance and tenacity of Mrs Lawrence, in that we should always fight for what we believe in and never give up even when it is easier to do so.

RIP Stephen Lawrence Sean from Leeds Hey Sean. Never a truer word said Sean. Our hats go off to Doreen and the 8 / RWDMAG.COM

Re: NEW SHORT FILM: Fifty Pence Hi, my name is Eric Kolelas and I am a London based actor. As a result of not getting much work, I have written, produced, directed and acted in my own short film - Fifty Pence - which is currently in the official selection of the 9th Annual London Short Film Festival.

The film took me nearly a year to complete, and a lot of effort and work.

Fifty Pence will be screened alongside six other films, one of which is directed by established actor Adrian Lester. I was wondering if my film, or myself as an actor might be worth writing about in your magazine/ or on RWDmag.com. Thank you for taking the time to read this.

Eric Kolelas Thanks for your letter, after watching Fifty Pence, we’d just like to say well done and tell you that we posted the video on RWDmag.com straight away RWDmag.com Online Kru Re: Mandem On The Wall My company is currently producing a comedy sketch series called Mandem On The Wall, which has had 15,000 Views in ONE week! The concept is about a trio of friends meet at the place they love to jam – The Wall. Together they discuss their daily antics as youth in today’s society!

We have tried to push on the stereotypes of youth today and also bring forward subjects people find hard to talk about and bring humour to them.

We feel it fits the market RWDmag appeal to. Enjoy Glen Yo Glen. We like the concept, keep working hard and you’ve got yourself a brand - RWD Team

THE MONTH IN TWITPICS Just when you thought posting a simple pic on the Internet was a private affair, Tego Sigel makes things mega mega public...

@KREAYSHAWN: Chilli cheese spaghetti!

Not much has happened for Kreayshawn since Gucci Gucci so she’s taken to food fusion. Looks very...congealed.

@Nardenescott: The way @dannywalker1 is always cussing me and @hattiecollins and this is the way he stays #stank We should never have let Danny start making compost in the office.

@diplo: Moderately racist candy packaging from lebanon #BrilliantBitOfRacism

RWDMAG.COM QUICK QUESTION: RWDmag.com Users Cast Their Vote

12%

Yes, and I stick to it

Thobejane Raymond “No, got year planned already”

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

This month:

13%

Yes, but I don’t stick to it

18%

Do you still make a New Year’s Resolution?

36%

Sometimes, when I can remember

Never have, never will

21%

Rayz “Do people still do that?”

RWD POLLS: WHO WILL BEYONCÉ AND JAY-Z’S BABY, ‘BLUE IVY’ LOOK LIKE MORE?

No, not in ages

WILL HENRY’S LOAN SPELL AT ARSENAL BE A SUCCESS?

72%

56% 18% 44% 10% BEYONCÉ

YES, I THINK IT WILL BE LIKE OLD TIMES

JAY-Z

NO, HE’S PAST HIS BEST LIKE LUMPY MILK

?

iamaflanagan.co.uk

MAYBE, WE’LL HAVE TO SEE HOW HE FITS IN

TOP TWEETS @RWDMAG: 1 @ChloeFletcher_x: Ohhhhhh man! Hurry! You guys make my timeline more

entertaining/ jokes while watching TV :( 2 @hattiecollins: Ahead of the mixtape, reminiscing @RWDmag over the time I

watched a topless @rickyrozay perform in Dominican Republic in front of 5 people.

3 daniel_newman4: Loving the #alanpardyou jokes! Making me giggle even as a

united fan! Keep them coming...

CHECK IN/ CHECK OUT

TV:

HOMELAND Perfect viewing for the square eyed among us...

BOOK:

CULO Back it up with this brilliant new book about booty...

Check out... Pictures of bums, basically what more could you want from a book?

Edited by Jimmy ‘Interscope’ Iovine and P. Diddy, this 248-page glossy tome boasts artistic pictures of the batty by Raphael Mazzucco. The photographer, who has shot everyone from Matt Damon to Rachel Weisz, was ordered to travel the world, taking hot shots of the bot before Diddy and Jimmy chose the finest for this tasteful coffee table book. Titled Culo, which means bottom in Hispanic (word to Pitbull), you can bet your bottom dollar it’s worth a buy!

Order yours for £35 from Culo.interscope.com

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Check out... The pilot of Homeland, starring Claire Danes of My So-Called Life and Romeo & Juliet fame. Do you miss Jack Bauer in 24? Yearn for more heart-stopping psychological twists a la The Wire? Want a conspiracy-laden mind-boggling plot like Lost? Then this series could be for you, as a troubled CIA agent (Danes) investigates a potential set-up involving Iraq, a prisoner of war, Al-Quaeda and a plan to blow up the US. Also co-starring Damien Lewis, Danes was recently nominated for a Golden Globe, with critics in the US tipping it as the series to watch this year.

The pilot screens on Channel 4 early 2012.

ART:

BRITISH DESIGN: 1948 - 2012 Be inspired by some of Britain’s Greatest designs...

Check in... To the V&A at the end of March where you can experience some of the greatest designs of our time, from some of the UK’s greatest designers including Norman Foster to Paul Smith. This exhibit gathers together iconic, innovative images and artefacts of everything from the e-Type Jag, to Concord, a Mary Quant dress, a David Hockney picture, the brownie camera and a painting of the Aquatics Centre for this year’s Olympic Games. Edumacate yourself and be inspired all at the same time.

Opening on 31 March, tickets are available to buy now. Vam.ac.uk

2012 IN NUMBERS A look at the next twelve months in digits...

GADGET:

BAYAN 7 Start your party right with this super sound system...

Check out... The answer to your impromptu party problems thanks to the Bayan 7, which adds serious boost and clarity to your average dock. Plug in your iPod or iPhone (there’s also a rear connector for you Androids out there), and prepare your ears as 120W of power blasts through the speakers. Thanks to the superior definition, depth and zero distortion, even the dirtiest dubstep at the highest volume won’t warp and contort. Charge your [insert Apple product here] while listening to your favourite tunes and look super stylish, with the solid-wood casing, 8” subwoofer and sleek design. All this and there’s voice mode for audiobooks and podcasts!

Note: this product doesn’t also make tea and put the washing on for you. It can’t do everything!

RRP £299 plus VAT from Bayanaudio.com

The number you get if you add together the digits in 2012. #mathsgenius

FIDDY’S

WORLD OF WHATEVER Seeking some self-improvement in her life, journo, consultant, blogger and mentor, Chantelle Fiddy (tries to) find a life. This month: Schooling England If you’ve ever been to one of Urban Development’s Industry Takeover events you’ll know what’s popping – seminars, workshops, new sounds and a great opportunity to network if you’re looking for a career in the music industry. But why should you care now? Well, for the first time ever Industry Takeover is coming to a town near you as part of the regional MOBO Tour that kicks off on 22 February. Where there’s a show by night, you’ll find Industry Takeover by day - so Birmingham, Liverpool, Glasgow, Newcastle, Bristol and London, it’s your time. If you want to get the lowdown on blogging, branding and making the right noise, industry experts from SB.TV, RWD Magazine, PRS for Music Foundation, SJM Concerts, and artists on the MOBO Tour will be on hand to sort your life out. The best about it is tickets to Industry Takeover and the MOBO Tour itself are FREE thanks to funding from Arts Council England and PRS for Music Foundation.With demand high, get registering sooner rather than later lovely people.

To register for free tickets Mobo.com/mobotour

The date in December that the world is due to end. If the Mayan’s predictions are anything to go by. We’re not convinced.

The years, this year that the Queen has been on the throne. Boy, Queenie needs to get some Dioralyte or SUMMIN! Her Maj celebrates 60 years as the Sovereign of this country.

Total number of people working on the Olympics in London this year, including paid workers, volunteers and conractors.

Estimated global audience expected to watch the opening ceremony on 27 July 2012 in billions.

11

ENOUGH ALREADY: THE SUGABABES If you’re confused as to who’s in the ‘Sugababes’ and even more perplexed after finding out the ORIGINAL members might be reforming, then join the club. Danny Walker gets to the bottom of this talentless brainteaser. Whilst investigating what the pop is going on, he also ponders if people give a flying flop...

Let’s go back to the beginning... Starting with Siobhán Donaghy (the ginger one who looked like a shoe) and Mutya Buena (the slick-haired one who looked like a shoe with peircings) the original ‘babes’ were joined by Keisha Buchanan (the girl who Siobhán later dubbed as a “bully”...

Who also looked like a shoe) to form the ridiculously named ‘Sugababies’ in 1998. We know, terrible name, that’s why management transformed them into ‘Sugababes’ who then went on to receive mediocre chart success with hits like Overload, Overload and Overload. They did actually have other tracks in the early years but they were sh*t and as a result they were rightfully dropped by their label.

With average looks and even less than average singing ability it wasn’t long before Siobhán was out the door to be replaced by Atomic Kitten castaway Heidi Range. No offence to Siobhán but that’s when things went well for the band and with their second line-up they scored No.1’s with Freak Like Me, 12 / RWDMAG.COM

Round Round and Push The Button. Let it be said that this was when Sugababes were actually good. With rumours rife that they were bitchy to each other backstage they should have stopped in 2005. The downward spiral soon saw Mutya leave – to be replaced by average Amelle Berrabah – and then in 2009 the last surviving member Keisha left.

After being replaced by Jade “Sung in Eurovision and for Andrew Lloyd Webber ohdearohdear” Ewen, Keisha of course denies being sacked from the group but RWD can exclusively reveal that we don’t really care.

So now you’re up to date with all things Suga – the FOURTH line-up consists of Amelle, Heidi and Jade – it’s all about concentrating on the music. Someone tell them that. Their latest song, Freedom, was so terrible it went from a comeback single to a free download “as a thank you to fans”... the iTunes pre-order link was actually removed. How embarrassing. We also think it was being used in Iraq as a

form of torture but that’s unconfirmed.

It seems it’s only a matter of time before Sony RCA pull the sugary plug and concentrate on, well, anyone else.

With all eyes on the singer scrapheap – Paddy Power should start taking bets as to who will sign-on first, our money’s on Jade – it’s a perfect time for... you guessed it, more Sugababes.

The rumour mill is suggesting the original line-up are back in the studio, working with decent producers and trying to conjure up a record deal. WTF?!?!? Surely they had their moment to shine over 10 years ago!?!?! We suggest they call it a day while they’ve still got their [insert what’s left here]. Is there even enough hair gel for Mutya to survive a comeback?

And who is Keisha going to bully, they know her tricks now? And Siobhán, no one even remembers Siobhán. The Sugababes are dead (and so are the old new old Sugababes), long live Little Mix or whichever manufactured girl band are doing it when this goes to print.

adiSlam

WE FLY HIGH

Only if you’re totally out of touch would you not know about the recent adiSlam event, easily the biggest celebrity basketball tournament to hit our shores. If you weren’t there get ready to feel like you were, with our rundown of what the likes of TOWIE’s Mario, SBTV, Roll Deep and, of course, our victorious selves had to offer out on the courts. images by Jake Green

Amongst the best b-ball skills Essex has ever witnessed (this only applies to anytime the RWD Rockets touched the court) there was some of the most entertaining basketball to be played since the invention of the game - shout out Last FM! Skillful surprises came in the form of Roll Deep who definitely held their own on the court and even more so Grime Daily who stormed their way to the final but unfortunately couldn’t match the level of talent we provided.

Manny Norte kept proceedings running smoothly as the host with the most, he had the adiSlam revellers in stitches during the heats with his banter, whilst Swerve and Rattus Rattus held it down on the decks spinning everything from grime to dubstep and hip hop. Of course the adiSlam ballers may have looked the part in their customised adidas kits but they definitely needed a break in between games which enabled the sexy cheerleaders to entice the crowd and freestylers, beatboxers and dancers do their thing.

Wretch 32 literally drew the revellers in

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as they encircled the Tottenham spitter during his exclusive set in which he got personal alongside Etta Bond for his single Forgiveness and tore apart his smash hit Traktor. We had to actually rescue the No.1 hitmaker from fans as they steamed the stage to show their love. As ever, Wretch was gracious and cool - one of the nicest rappers you’ll ever hope to meet!

All in all you should have really been there guys but we’re guessing that due to the hype surrounding this year’s event they’ll be adiSlam 2012 - watch this space!

For video footage of the event check adiSlam.co.uk

15

adiSlam

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ADISLAM IN NUMBERS Just before we call it quits on adiSlam we thought we’d break down the whole event into a few digits...

The size of the adiSlam crowd in the Brentwood Centre.

Amount in pounds that adiSlam donated to the London Youth Support Trust charity.

Number of days in total it took to organise adiSlam. Yep we know we’re amazing.

The amount of minutes RWD absolutely slaughtered Urban Nerds for. Seriously, we can’t even remember the score.

Number of scantily clad cheerleaders shaking their pom poms at adiSlam.

The size of the RWD film crew - look out for the footage.

17

ONE TO WATCH RITA ORA We tipped her as far back as 2010, but finally Rita Ora is set for release and we predict she’s going to be mega-massive. Teaming A-List hitmakers with VIP friends, Hattie Collins meets the Albanian born singer...

“It’s finally happening,” laughs 21 year-old Ora. “It’s been a wait but finally I’m getting there.” Despite being signed to Roc Nation, home to K.Koke, Jay Electronica and a certain other Jay (Z) back in 2009, it’s taken time for Rita to see a release. Thankfully, being with a label that’s more of a family than your regular record label has allowed Rita the time to create a record that’s she proud to unleash. “I’ve been able to develop as a writer and find myself as an artist,” she notes. “I had things going on in my life at the time so I found stuff to write about and sing about. My love life wasn’t great, so I wrote about that,” she exclaims. “When I was signed I thought I was ready but I wasn’t. I’m glad I took time and listened to my big brothers!”

Her elder ‘siblings’ include Jay Brown and Jay-Z of Roc Nation, as well as pals Tinie Tempah and Drake, the latter of whom personally requested the appearance of Rita in his video for Over back in 2010 and who will appear on her album. “I’ve got a lot of time for Drake, he’s a great guy.” While she’s reluctant

to reveal the specifics of the Disturbing London rapper’s involvement in her forthcoming debut (“I want it to be a surprise!”), she’s keen that despite the likes of Stargate, Will.I.Am, The-Dream and Tricky Stewart being involved, she’s keeping her sound strictly UK.” I want to keep it British cos that’s where I’m from.

It’s very upbeat, party. I’m thinking of calling it Party & Bullsh*t,” announces the Stefani, Kartel and Jamie XX fan.

Having already made a huge impact with DJ Fresh’s Hot Right Now smash, we’re confident that Ora will be 2012’s standout star. Ridiculously

“BEYONCÉ IS MY IDOL, SO TO HAVE HER THERE TO OFFER ADVICE IS AMAZING.” beautiful, effortlessly cool, incredibly talented, she also has pals like Jigga’s Missus on hand to guide her. “Beyoncé is one of my idols, I grew up listening to her, so to have her there to listen to me, and offer advice? I pinch myself all the time...” Up next for Ora is her own single in March, followed by the album later in the year. “I just want to make great music that people understand. This is all I’ve ever thought about. I’ve never had a Plan B. Not in this game.”

Hot Right Now is out on 12 February. @ritaora

Verena Stephanie Grotto

GUILTZ

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This east London born producer, rhymer and songwriter grew up listening to everything from R&B to hip hop, soul, reggae and soca. “I live and breathe music,” the 24 year-old enthuses.

Beginning his professional life at 11 as a songwriter he began producing at 14, before forming a group at 18. “Although we went our separate ways, the buzz that I got from performing onstage was incredible. I told myself that nothing would stop me from achieving my target,” reflects the rhymer. With an EP of rhymes over popular instrumentals (The New Me) in the works, next up is an original CD due to drop in a month or so. Featuring bangers like One In A Million and the persuasive Doin Wot I Like, there’s no reason to feel guilty for feeling this MC. “My confidence is peaking. Being able to entertain people is something that I was born to do!” @guiltz01

MATTHEW WALKER

If you haven’t seen the phenomenal video for JME’s 96 F***ries yet, don’t even talk to us. “JME and I vowed not to reveal the exact method,” laughs its director Matt Walker of the technically puzzling piece. “All I can say is that we shot all around London over three days. The energy was so crazy that the visuals had to match it.” Since finishing his digital animation degree before meeting Scorcher in 2007, Matt made his directorial debut over at Scorch’s production company, Staple House, with the Skepta V N-Dubz So Alive vid. Since then he’s lensed Mike Lowrey and Hold On for Skeppy, Wretch’s Forgiveness and created FX for Dark Knight. Future ambitions for the Staple House co-CEO include visuals for Tinie Tempah before taking on Hollywood. “I want a summer blockbuster - no rush though!” Staplehouse.co.uk and @mattstaplelucas 19

ONE TO WATCH CHARLI XCX “I WANT TO HELP MOVE POP MUSIC AWAY FROM FLO RIDA AND PITBULL AND ALL THAT RUBBISH.” Now 19, we’ve had our peepers on this Bishop’s Stortford singer since she was 15. With tips from MTV and HMV, we’re not the only ones who think Charli is about to go XXL... Words Hattie Collins “I make dark pop,” decides Charli Aitchison of her sound, often described as ‘industrial goth’ on the numerous blogs that have raved about her sonically arresting aurals. “I’ve been going down a darker road and I feel that’s what pop music needs at the moment; realness,” Tracks like the recent single Nuclear Seasons and its predecessor Stay Away solidify that Charli has grown up a whole lot since RWD first

featured her back in 2008. “I’m still very left,” she insists quickly, laughing that chucking glitter over herself in grimy east end raves might be long gone, but, “my style has stayed the same, it’s not like I’ve been turned into a fake tanned bimbo overnight!” Now signed to Atlantic Records, not only does she sing, sometimes rap, she’s also studying art, promotes her own parties and edits a magazine called Shut Your Pretty Mouth. “I love photographers like David LaChapelle, and directors like Chris Cunningham, I’m inspired by them as much as I am by Grace Jones and Kate Bush,” says the crazily creative teen. “My music is real pop music with beautiful, visual, cinematic lyrics that

C4

will hopefully put interesting pictures into people’s heads.” Working on her debut album with Patrik Berger (Robyn) and Ariel Rechtshaid (Glasser), Charli is ready for the success that has been sniffing at her heels for the last five years. “I’ve been doing this for a while and I feel like I’ve worked really hard,” she decides. “I want my music to be heard, even if people don’t like it. I want to help move pop music away from Flo Rida and Pitbull and all that rubbish.”

Charli, please, please, please make good on your word and save us all from the electro-Europop-hell.

Charli plays XOYO, London on 8 February. Her debut album is due out this April. @charli_xcx

Starting out by singing the lead vocals in groups and church choirs alongside acting in plays isn’t the typical entry into the MC scene, but Birmingham’s C4 took that very route to become one of 2012’s ones to watch. After being introduced to garage and then grime by older brother Preditah, freestyle upon freestyle began to drop with Detention showcasing his humorous side it also helped convince his mother he wasn’t going to be making typical grime music. “I like to be creative that’s the main word for me, I can’t just go to the studio and make a track like bars and a chorus,” the 1Xtra tipped talent explains. The G FrSH and Donnie McClurkin appreciator now has upcoming single Off Track recorded alongside the skippy, tongue in cheek Oorite and laid back hip hop track Time. Recently joining the BBK family, you’ll be hearing and seeing a lot more from this explosive lyricist. @C4_Oorite

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SUPPORTED BY

YOUNGMAN This Derby lad has been courting the D&B, dubstep and near enough any scene with a crazy amount of bass since his teens.

Touring the world with Croydon dons Skream and Benga, plus bass lords Shy FX and Breakage, has prepared the highly tipped Youngman with all he needs to truly blow up in 2012... words

by Nardene Scott styling by Sophie Robinson image by Adrian Nettleship video by Greg Bond

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If you check on Simon Smith’s (aka Youngman) MySpace you’ll find his very first experience in music; a photo of the Midlander behind the decks situated in his living room at just four years-old. It’s been an inevitable career for the singer/ spitter/ straight vibe provider. His father, D&B’s finest Simon ‘Bassline’ Smith taught the youngster the ropes before he started school and by the time the hype act was 17 he had created the dubstep anthem Kick Snare alongside early collaborator Crissy Cris, which opened up a door to delve further into dubstep and slightly away from his D&B roots.

“I remember seeing this Rolex on his wrist and he had a Rolex bag as well... I thought to myself ‘SICK! This is someone I need to be hanging around with,’” explains Youngman of meeting the untamed afro sporting Benga years ago in France. Following an impromptu PA together the same night, the pair soon discovered they had a lot in common; of course the music but also the fact they’re equally obsessed with fashion, partying and girls. A regular phone call discussing their wild weekends ended up in one of Benga’s unfinished beats being vocalled within the hour and eventually falling into the hands of Shy FX, who didn’t hesitate to sign up Youngman.

Fast forward a few years and the Digital Soundboy recording artist has worked with the best of bass, touring the world with Skream & Benga as their hypeman. “It’s always an honour to get on stage with those guys, to be honest with you.” 2011 also saw the Tear It Out singer rack up three separate sets at Glastonbury not forgetting a ridiculous amount of solo and Digital Soundboy shows, including an epic introduction to 2012 performing to 30,000 ravers in New Zealand as the clock struck 12am.

No wonder he’s being tipped as the male Katy B; Annie Mac didn’t waste time making his chilled dustup, Skream produced single Who Knows? her track of the week, whilst sister station 1Xtra say he’s one to watch in 2012. Example has invited the first class business graduate on his arena tour, so we’re not lying when we say he’s about to blow with a broad spectrum of interest in his music. “I like to describe my style as the smooth with the rough, soulful vocals with edgy beats,” the relentlessly hard-working MC says of his style as he reveals that he’s already recorded 60 potential tracks for upcoming album Me And My Music. Executively produced

by Shy FX and Benga, there are cuts with MJ Cole, Breakage and Sam Frank on the way. How does he keep himself sane with so much studio and onstage work, especially with party animals Benga, Example and Skream around him? “I’m tryna be the picture of perfect healthiness now, having green tea, staying off alcohol and fizzy drinks,” he insists. “I’m tryna, like, go to bed straight after shows.”

His name is going to be on a lot of lips this year, but the last thing Youngman wants you to think is that he’ll go all commercial. “If I can go on to have mainstream success as well as making relevant cool music then so be it,” he decides decisively. We doubt the star will change - he’s got bass in his blood.

Who Knows is out 30 January. Make sure you keep up to date with @youngman and @ecko_unltd_UK on Twitter and check out the full Ecko Unltd collection at JD Sports.

“I REMEMBER SEEING THIS ROLEX ON BENGA’S WRIST AND HE HAD A ROLEX BAG AS WELL… I THOUGHT TO MYSELF ‘SICK! THIS IS SOMEONE I NEED TO BE HANGING AROUND WITH.’” YOUNGMAN FACTS When he’s at a loss in the studio he plays Fifa, grabs a Nando’s or does a spot of online shopping Youngman performed at an amazing amount of shows last year, 300 to be precise!!! #RWDSalute He’s an avid reader, his latest books being The Alchemist and Steve Jobs: The Exclusive Biography Youngman was told by his university lecturers to apply to Oxford and Cambridge after getting a 1st in Business Management and admits he would have gone to work in the city Youngman has his own video diary called The Night Is Young and it’s strictly after dark so “more stuff” is included

23

UPFRONT WITH...

ASHLEY YOUNG With the football season entering the important months (where every point counts) Danny Walker caught up with Manchester United and England’s matchless midfielder Ashley Young. He talks Drake, overcoming rejection and getting beats from his mum?!?!

I DEFINITELY HAVEN’T GOT A BIG EGO. MY MUM AND DAD WOULD STILL SLAP ME DOWN.

24 / RWDMAG.COM

Hey, how’s is going?

I’m good thanks.

Tell us about growing up, how was home life as a kid?

Yeah, I have three brothers, an older brother called Martin and two younger brothers Lewis and Kyle, it was just nonstop football. Pretty much every weekend travelling up and down with my mum and dad playing football. Anytime my mum and dad went out we were always breaking ornaments [laughs]. I remember gluing things back together thinking she wouldn’t know. She come straight in and knew.

What do your brothers do now?

My oldest brother is a bank manager now... and the youngest one [Lewis] is at Northampton and then Kyle is at Arsenal.

Ah, he’s at a good team.

[Laughs hard] He keeps telling me he’s at a good team. He’s a confident person. To be honest, I’ve always said that out of all of us, even though it hurts me to say, the younger one is probably the best.

The youngest is always the best...!

Growing up, what did you do for fun, and what did you have to ignore to make it to the Premier League?

We were into all sorts I used to ride a BMX bike, all sorts of different stuff. I think the way my mum and dad brought us up we weren’t to hang around the streets, they drummed that into us...

Did you say drum or beat?

[Laughs] Erm... beat. Yeah definitely beat. They just made sure we weren’t hanging around on street corners. I think – especially with us as boys together – we knew what was right and what was wrong. We always focused on football.

What’s it like being referred to as one of the best summer signings and England’s answer to the left sided problems? How is your ego?

[Laughs] I definitely haven’t got a big ego. My mum and dad would still slap me down.

Good good, that has been beaten out of you.

Of course, I’m a humble person. I’m down to earth. It’s always nice to hear things being said about you, that you’ve been playing well and you’ve started off the season well and the same for England, but I’m a player that always wants to better myself and I do that in training everyday and I work hard. If it gets me better than I am now, hopefully, fingers crossed I can continue to put in the good work I’ve shown so far and continue it to the end of the season.

Was there ever a time when you doubted yourself and had to refocus?

I’ve never doubted myself, I remember a stage in my career when I was 16 and I was offered a YTS at Watford, that was quite hard. I understand how hard it is when 16 year-olds get rejected. It happened to me.

Watford turned around to me and said that I could, ‘leave and go somewhere else or stay on part-time as a YTS.’ Since I’d been there since I was 10 years-old, I thought I’d stay on and show them that they’d made the wrong decision. Within a year I was offered a professional contact.

What do you do before a match?

I always listen to music. Always just got my headphones on, that is what makes me concentrate. Before a game [I listen to] hip hop and R&B, UK garage...

What was the last thing you downloaded (legally of course)...

I think it was Drake Ft. Nicki Minaj.

What do you think of Drake?

He is a good performer. When he came over I got to see him and he was brilliant. I think there are so many artists that are out there and that I put alongside him. I listen to a lot of Jay-Z and Lil Wayne. I tend to listen to a lot of their music.

What are your hopes for the season?

Erm, I joined United at the start of the season to play in big competitions and fight for titles and win a couple of competitions that I was involved in before.

All I can say is it’s a long season and we’re only a part of the way through it so far, if we keep doing as well as we have been... we just look forward to each game.

I unfortunately have to wish you luck; as an Arsenal fan that pains me. What about your hopes for Euro 2012?

Of course the main focus is to go and win it. Fingers crossed that I keep playing the way I have, and I keep showing the form that I have so far and when it comes down to it, I’m there when the squad is being announced.

We’re overdue a trophy...

I believe so as well. ...So if you can tell the lads to sort it out that would be great.

[Laughs] Ok. And lastly, how would you sum up Ashley young in one word?

Dedicated.

Ashley Young is wearing the new adidas F50 miCoach boots – launched in November 2011; the revolutionary boots will allow players to monitor their performance on the pitch giving feedback on speed, distance, and active zones. Check adidas.com/football

LET’S PLAY THE NAME GAME...

Which ‘Ashley’ said what, as we try and puzzle the tricky winger with quotes from Ashlee Simpson, Ashley Cole and himself...

“Referees and linesmen are killing teams.”

Ashley Cole.

“I’ve always loved rock music. I went to ballet school and had orange hair. I’ve always been out there.”

[Laughs] Ashlee Simpson.

Are you sure about that one?

I would say Ash, but he won’t be happy.

“I see a lot of games in Europe, I watch a lot of football, and you see a lot of players in the game who are very functional. Some are decent, some are more than decent and some are very, very good. And then you have the players” Ashley Cole, I wouldn’t say that.

That is you!

That’s from me? I honestly don’t remember saying that.

Well you did! Are there a lot of things that come out that you don’t remember saying?

A lot of time there is stuff that comes out and you think to yourself, ‘I actually didn’t say that’... there are obviously people who will try and just say whatever to the press but it’s one of those things that when you have an interview, you want to talk to people and make sure that is exactly what you said.

We just twist what you say, this whole interview will be about you hating Fergie... and how you want to go to Arsenal on a free...

[Laughs]. Yeah.

CTS (COMPLETE THE SENTENCE) Ashley does our work for us...

If you could play Upfront With anyone, who would it be... Probably Ian Wright.

If I wasn’t playing football I’d be... Something to do with sports I think. I’ve been asked that question so many times, I dunno.

My favourite player at United is... Erm, I can’t pick one. I’d be biased if I picked one person.

When I’m not playing football... I relax, chill out, play computer games on the Xbox.

At FIFA I’m... Not too bad at all. There’s a lot of boys at the club who talk themselves up.

I know everyone is giving themselves like a month to practice but we’ll soon find out who’s been talking and who can actually play.

Who talks the most?

[Laughs] Yeah, there are a few, Wazza being on the front cover, he’s got to be good at the game. Rio, Danny Welbeck, Phil Jones, erm, Fletch... I’m not too sure because some of them play on PlayStation. They need to convert and get on the Xbox.

25

STYLE GUIDE STYLE | FASHION | FASHION NEWS | REFRESHED

>>

WHAT TO WEAR AND HOW TO WEAR IT...

LEG OVER

NATURAL SELECTION Skinny grey nsdenim.com, £125 BRIGITTE JEANS Ruby Red urbanoutfitters.co.uk, £125 NATURAL SELECTION DENIM Pablo cord Fawn nsdenim.com, £140 CARHARTT Khaki Racket pant carhartt-wip.com, £75 THE DUFFER OF ST. GEORGE Rough Neck denim jdsports.co.uk, £49.99 VOI Berry twisted chino voijeans.co.uk, £39.99 MONKEE GENES dark denim skinny monkeegenes.com, £60 MINIMUM Green Skinny £80 www.minimum.dk.

RICHARD CHAI FOR ORIGINAL PENGUIN Check Blue cords originalpenguin.co.uk, £120

as en it w ys wh ims; this a d e h re t den Gone a e between statement ic o a h e c k a ma os and spring oloured chinsafe c with rds, or play . co ans.. with je

PHOTOGRAPHY: KEVIN JOSEPH STYLING: SOPHIE ROBINSON >> 27

STYLE GUIDE

NATURAL SELECTION Smith Skinny grey jean nsdenim.com, £125

MINIMUM Dark charcoal skinny jean minimum.dk., £80

CARHARTT Klondike pant carhartt-wip.com, £70

28 / RWDMAG.COM

ETO DENIM cuffed combat chinos etojeans.co.uk, £39.99

NATURAL SELECTION Shun Chino nsdenim.com, £175

LUKE Khaki green trousers with braces luke1977.com, £90

29

STYLE GUIDE

FLY 53 Greenhill chino fly53store.com, £60

QUIKSILVER Eggplant chinoi surfdome.com, £125 BOXFRESH Navy Chino boxfresh.co.uk., £65

NANNY STATE @ BANK Tobacco Chino bankfashion.co.uk, £35

30 / RWDMAG.COM

MARSHALL ARTIST Royal blue cords threadsaddiction.com , £85

NATURAL SELECTION Pablo cord nsdenim.com, £140

LUKE Sand cords luke1977.com, £90

GABICCI Berry Cords 01422 233 700 £85

31

This page: Curt wears gilet by Nickelson, vest by adidas, shorts by Alpinestars, socks

by American Apparel, watch by Ltd Opposite page: Curt wears jacket by adidas, T-shirt and chinos by B-side

by Wale, glasses

by Ray-Ban, hat by Crooks & Castles 32 / RWDMAG.COM

PHOTOGRAPHER: JAMES PEARSON-HOWES STYLING: NEESHA SHARMA & GEMMA SWAN GROOMING: SIMMY LO @ RND CREATIVES MODEL: CURT ROBERTS @ NEVS

33

This page: Curt wears shirt

by The Duffer of St George, chinos by Bellfield, hoodie and shoes by Pele Sports, hat by New Era, watch by Triwa Opposite page: Curt wears sweatshirt by Money Clothing, gilet by Lavenham, shorts

by Marshall Artist, hat by Crooks & Castles 34 / RWDMAG.COM

35

36 / RWDMAG.COM

This page: Curt wears shirt

by Carhartt, outer shirt by Luke 1977, shorts by Alpinestars, socks

by American Apparel, trainers by adidas, watch by Kennett Opposite page: Curt wears T-shirt

by The Duffer of St George, denim jacket

by Topman, jacket

by Luke, chinos

by Ben Sherman, socks by American Apparel, shoes by Topman, cap by New Era

37

This page: Curt wears T-shirt

by Henri Lloyd, cardigan by adidas, watch by Ltd, hat by New Era Opposite page: Curt wears shorts

by Original Penguin, T-shirt by Weekend Offender, jacket by Sinstar Clothing, glasses by Ray-Ban, socks by American Apparell trainers by Nike

38 / RWDMAG.COM

39

FASHION NEWS

ROC THE LOOK

The super-stylish, always immaculately dressed Irene Asanji lets us in on next season’s secrets... for more news on fashion, competitions and exclusive content go to RWDmag.com/fashion

The fashion brand, formed by hip hop heavyweight Jay-Z launches their new footwear collection, heralding a whole new era in street style for Rocawear.

ENTER THE 36 CHAMBERS! GORILLAZ IN THE MIST The military inspired camouflage print, taken from the cover of the Gorillaz self-titled debut album, is also the signature design.

The military theme is also featured on the canvas hi-top shoe in black/ brown, including an image of their famous Pazuzu character. The lining of both designs have an exclusive print, featuring a collage of images from their album artwork, all made specially for this collab. The collaboration between the two came through Converse’s connectivity project, with the brand teaming up with some of the most influential artists in the industry, giving them the opportunity to create truly unique works of art.

Converse x Gorillaz Chuck Taylor All Star priced at £45, available at converse.com 40 / RWDMAG.COM

WeSC and American Grammywinner, director and producer, RZA have teamed up for a special collaboration this season.

RZA, not only the driving force behind the incredible Wu-Tang Clan, who produced all of the group’s albums and most of their solo projects, he has even supplied soundtracks to cult animation series Afro Samurai, and produced the soundtrack for close friend Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill series too. As one of the most noted music producers of all time, working with everyone from Bjork to Kanye West, who better then to work on a device that we all use to hear tunes on?

The new premium DJ headphones collaboration are called ‘Chambers by RZA’ and are available in all WeSC stores nationwide. Chambers by RZA - Premium DJ Pro £250. wesc.com

The new casual sneaker styles express the new direction of the brand, and the more, preppy, and matured aesthetic they’re gearing towards. The range includes a selection of high tops, espadrilles, chukka wedge boots and hiking styles, all demonstrating the future style appeal for Rocawear. Highlights in the range include the Volley Docka, and the Volley Slip-ons: jute, espadrille, stitched onto a woven mid sole, both styles are made with a stone-washed upper canvas. The slip-on option comes in either stone or black, and the laced up version is available in khaki or black.

Rocawear Volley Docka priced at £45 and Volley Slip-On £45. For stockists and to check out the rest of the exclusive range online at RWDmag.com

SLIM SHADY BE MY They kept your feet dry last VALENTINE season, now Palladium are back

KAWS AND EFFECT

to keep your feet looking real cool this season.

One of our favourite street wear brands PXL, spreads the love.

The new SLIM range by Palladium takes 60 years of brand authenticity and heritage into a completely brand new range, which still manages to retain the signature elements of the brand. The SLIM consists of 100% jute espadrille foxing, low profile rubber moulded outsole and a hemp and cotton blend textile upper. The SLIM are lightweight, durable, and perfect for the countless summer nights out ahead, and most importantly, a true piece of Palladium history.

The SLIM range is priced at £55 available at Selfridges.com

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, the romantic team over at PXL have release the I LUV U sweatshirt. First released as a T-shirt favourite by Ed Sheeran, the popularity of the limited edition piece has spurred the brand to re-release the style on a black sweat shirt and grey marl T-shirt. With a unique cut featuring stretch side panels, flocked heart and back stitch this is definitely one for all those with a Valentine’s present to buy...

Check PXLclothing.com

Original Fake reveal their Spring/ Summer collection...

The collaborative brand by Medicom and celebrated street artist KAWS recently revealed their latest collection. Staple items, including jeans, polos, hoods and T’s, all get the KAWS treatment. His signature teeth and eye crosses can be seen throughout the range but cop a T if you prefer some actual artwork...

Check original-fake.com for more...

EYE OF THE TIGER Onitsuka Tiger has a strong sporting heritage with many shoes from its history relating to the Olympics.

The brand has chosen to celebrate the iconic 2012 event with a range of vintage styles. Inspiration was taken from the gold, silver and bronze medals through to the five colours of the Olympic rings. All shoes in the range have undergone a series of distressing techniques to create the appearance of vintage footwear. Models within the range, which have incorporated the Olympic theme in their designs, include the CALIFORNIA 78, which has been created in the Olympic medal colours.

California 78 shoe, priced at £70, available at onitsukatiger.com 41

COVER STORY LABRINTH

“WHAT YOU WEAR MAKES A STATEMENT AS MUCH AS YOUR MUSIC DOES, ABOUT WHO YOU ARE AS AN ARTIST, AND AS A PERSON. I PRESENT MYSELF IN THE SAME WAY AS I MAKE MUSIC; I’M AS CREATIVE AS POSSIBLE...”

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He’s one of the most innovative artists the UK has seen in recent years and despite the delay between smash hits Let The Sun Shine and Earthquake, the self professed studio hermit has racked up 35 weeks in the charts with his signature sound. Fresh from some well needed time away in LA and the Maldives, Timothy McKenzie aka Labrinth sets Nardene Scott straight on the new album, his upcoming tour, working with other producers and something sick on the way courtesy of his label, Odd Child Recordings. images by Jake Green styling by Ayishat set design by Linea Apelqvist and Ben Hughes grooming by Oriona Robb

Talk us through the shoot today... how did you find it?

I think the shoot was really cool. Very innovative, it was like, they took an idea and ran with it. They kind of took the whole Earthquake idea and turned it into something quite exciting. It went really well.

A lot of people are saying that Earthquake was their favourite song of 2011, did you expect it to blow up the way that it did?

Well I kind of said it on the song (laughs), but I didn’t know it would happen in real life! It’s just amazing to see fans supporting and I felt like the record did what I wanted it to do, and it’s really helping me man. It’s even taking me across the border, I’m happy man. It has been a bit crazy, I’ve recently got Busta Rhymes on Earthquake, he’s done another version for the US so that’s playing out there at the moment.

What was the delay because obviously Let The Sun Shine came out late 2010 and then there was quite a break

between that and Earthquake?

The delay was because I just thought it wasn’t necessary... I wanted to get a record and a video that was worthy of the time and I feel like I want to make a statement with every record I put out.

I feel like it [Earthquake] came out at the perfect time – I had enough time to grow, and yeah, it’s time for Lab to come out 2012! Let’s go, let’s go!

Is that part of the reason for the delay, you were waiting for the right sound?

Yeah, I’ll wait ‘til I hear the right song. As an artist, I like to make sure I know what I want to present to people. I think that you can’t say something without knowing what you’re saying and I feel like, as Labrinth, I’ve become a lot more sure about what I want to say and do.

Obviously you were working with people in between like Yasmin and Ms. Dynamite but what can we expect from you in terms of collaborations?

It has been a bit crazy. We’ve got this record out at the moment, with a few special artists, people like Kano, Tinie,

Wretch, all on the record, so it’s really cool! Um, then next year it’s gonna be crazy collabs, loads of like duets and stuff going on. Yeah you can expect some exciting collabs.

Who would you like to work with?

Well, I’ve worked with Emile Sandé before, she’s doing an amazing job. I saw her on the Graham Norton show with Madonna – she smashed it! I like what Lana Del Rey’s doing. There’s loads of artists at the minute that I’d love to work with. They’re not the same old artists, they’re bringing their own energy.

Who has been the most fun person to work with?

I really enjoyed working with Mike Posner. Also Busta Rhymes – he’s a really, really cool guy. I would say that Pro is very funny too.

The singles have reached #2 and #3 so there’s definite hype for Electronic Earth.

What can we expect from the album?

It’s a great introduction, that’s what it is.

It’s kind of hinting at what’s coming up next. Me and my manager, Mark Williams, 43

COVER STORY LABRINTH believe in musical freedom, and I think that’s what you’ll get from me as an artist. I want to be as free as possible as an artist. I don’t just want to be an urban artist, I want to be a commercial artist as well, pop, jazz, soul...

Are you working with any other producers for Electronic Earth?

Do you know what? I would love to work with other producers. I’ve worked with a few writers but I think it just ended up being me on this album. I’d like to work with more people in the future though. It is hard, because when you’re not pressing all the buttons and giving all the orders, it’s kind of scary... not scary, but kind of like ‘Don’t tell me what to do!’ [laughs]. Now I know how the artists feel.

Is there a ‘Labrinth sound’ to it at all?

My music is a protest against being formal. Everything is created by our experiences, so I don’t think someone

should stay within one sound their whole life. My album is going to be a collage of everything I’ve experienced.

Did Simon have a listen yet?

I think Simon had a listen to the album ages ago. He heard some songs that weren’t even gonna be on the album, well, that aren’t gonna be on the album now.

What about the tracks that don’t make the album? Are you gonna make an EP or mixtape?

I am gonna put together a mixtape, with my crew that consists of me, a girl called Henrietta Bond, and Raf Riley. They’re very, very talented. We’re also gonna get some of our friends on the record too, and just have a smashing time!

When can we expect the album?

March 19, and of course I’ve got a tour as well, which is in February. Get ready!

What’s the tour gonna be like? How are you gonna beat the craziness of

“I WANNA TEACH OTHER PEOPLE, I THINK THAT’S VERY IMPORTANT AS AN ARTIST, NOT JUST TO KEEP IT TO OURSELVES BUT TO PASS IT ON. I WANNA HELP PEOPLE BUILD THEIR CAREERS INTO RESPECTABLE ARTISTS THAT WILL STAY AROUND FOREVER.” 44 / RWDMAG.COM

this shoot?!

Do you know what, I’m as arty as they come – I’m sure I can keep up with the shoot! [laughs]. The tour, I think it’s gonna be really exciting, I’m kind of happy that I’m on my own tour and I’m glad I’ve got there man.

And lastly, what are your ultimate goals as an artist?

I wanna study music theory even more.

I wanna teach other people, I think that’s very important as an artist, not just to keep it to ourselves but to pass it on. I wanna help people build their careers into respectable artists that will stay around forever.

Electronic Earth is out 19 March.

Check @labrinthda1st and Labrinth.tumblr.com. Labrinth wears Reebok apparel and footwear available from reebok.com and JDSports.co.uk.

For more on Reebok Classics visit Werclassic.com

LABRINTH ON... ...the shoot’s garms.

You know, Reebok back! I like the fit of the snapbacks and the look of the logo. They came back hard, man! I like to mix and match everything I wear - so I’ll put on a Classics T with a bowler hat and braces.

What you wear makes a statement as much as your music does, about who you are as an artist, and as a person. I present myself in the same way as I make music; I’m as creative as possible. I’m not always best with the names, a bit like with music; I don’t know the name of every piece of equipment or designer, but I know how to use it right. ...whether he’d marry a Kardashian for 72 days.

A real one? Like an actual one made out of human flesh? But they’re not! They’re not made out of human flesh! [laughs] I wouldn’t marry any of them, because it’s not good to marry a woman with plastic surgery – you know what happens when they get older... it’s scary. You don’t wanna be going out with Sylvester Stallone’s mum! [laughs]. It’s not a good look! Nah, I like real women. ...the best item in his wardrobe.

I have too many I think...I always talk about my blue suede shoes – I actually have them, and it always reminds me of Elvis, so probably them. But my most prized possessions are my instruments. I have my studio in my house, so if there was a fire, I wouldn’t care about my clothes! ...the worst thing in your wardrobe?

The worst thing? I had some really shiny shoes, very, very, shiny. They look like church shoes. They were the first thing I bought when I started becoming an artist.

I’m very happy that I didn’t wear them [laughs]. I also have a blazer that looks like curtains cut out from a granny’s window.

You know those ‘90s old school Boyz II Men old school big blazers? Yeah, it’s one of them [laughs]. ...prank calls.

I prank people all the time man! Thing is man, I lost my phone – I had Tinie’s number, Wretch’s number, all their numbers, but I’ve lost my phone so I can’t prank anyone. I should bow my head in shame shouldn’t I?

45

INTERVIEW VANESSA RAW

I LIKE IT RAW

When this talented triathlete isn’t busy topping podiums in the lead up to the Olympics, she’s at Elton John’s house having dinner with George Michael and painting the likes of Sir Ben Kingsley. Nardene Scott chats to Vanessa Raw about her love for art, gruelling training schedule and being let down by Rihanna.

You’re just on the way back from training and it’s 4pm. Is your schedule always intense?

I train probably three times a day.

Before it felt like I was training all day whereas now we kind of load everything at the beginning of the day. Also, the fact that I have an altitude tent to sleep in at night adds an extra element. It’s just for single people, not good if you’ve got a boyfriend! It’s like a tent that you zip yourself into and the mattress goes inside it, you sleep better because it feels like kind of a comatose state. It’s a little bit hot, that’s the only thing but it will be worth it in the end.

What would you say was the best and the worst thing about being an athlete?

The worst thing is that I have to get to bed early and I can’t go out and I suppose not being able to socialise as much as I want to. I’ve got to compromise on that.

The best thing is being able to see the hard work and feeling like you’re getting fitter and fitter and the fact that this is all going to pay off one day.

You’re also painted portraits of everyone from Stephen Fry to David Haye and many more. How did you get into art?

I’ve always wanted to be an artist since I was seven years-old and then I went to Loughborough University to study art because I could stay sporty as well.

Then that kind of took over for quite a few years. It was really hard to keep the art going once I finished the degree. It’s only the last four months since I got injured that I’ve put more focus back into my art.

Do you get as nervous when it comes to painting as you do with triathlon?

No, I don’t get that nervous; art is much more natural to me than triathlon. I met Ben Kingsley the other day - well, Sir Ben - that was probably the biggest experience of my life. He’s just how you’d expect him to be, very personal but also so intense like the characters he plays.

Everyone is equal, they’re all the same so I see them as who they are. I suppose

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it’s good because I can really get to know them in order to paint them well.

What do you think about the attention that you’ve been getting at the moment? Dinner at Elton John’s, tweets from celebs...

(Laughs) I find it a bit of a laugh really, it’s not real, it’s all part of the game and the art world. I’ll tell you who I really love as an actor and would like to paint, Ralph Fiennes and someone like Nelson

“ART IS MUCH MORE NATURAL TO ME THAN TRIATHLON. MEETING BEN KINGSLEY WAS PROBABLY THE BIGGEST EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE.” Mandela or the Queen. Actually I’m not that bothered about the Queen.

What do you do to wind down then other than paint? I heard you went to see Rihanna the other day?

Yeah I went to see Rihanna, I wasn’t very impressed actually, I’m not sure that she sung the whole show, she seemed to mime a lot of it. She acted like she was drunk and that really affected things. I prefer films and going out for dinner. @nessrawart

THE RAW FACTS Vanessa is tipping Jessica Ennis, Mo Farah and Mark Cavendish for 2012 Olympics.

Vanessa herself has been tipped by everyone from Wayne Rooney and Jamie Oliver to Liz Hurley for her sporting and artistic prowess.

Look out for the gorgeous Ms. Raw in the upcoming issue of Vogue magazine where she features in a special photoshoot Vanessa ended 2011 with a bang bagging first place in the Eilat ITU Triathlon European Cup a whole three minutes ahead of the competition.

Before competing she listens to classical music to calm her nerves or starts dancing around to some pop music.

095

SKINS SERIES 6

SKINNY JEANS

Yep, it’s back on our screens, so Francesca Dunn and Danny Walker met up with the cast to get the, ahem, skinny on series six... images by James Pearson-Howes styling by PC Williams grooming by Oriona Robb

48 / RWDMAG.COM

“I’D HAVE LOVED TO BE IN FEAR AND LOATHING – HUNTER S. THOMPSON IS NUTS! TARANTINO CHARACTERS ARE ALWAYS FUN TOO. BASICALLY SOMETHING I CAN SINK MY TEETH INTO.”

SAM JACKSON At 18, Sam Jackson aka Alex is in his final year of sixth form.

Despite *ahem* skiving the odd week or so in the name of Skins, he’s going for gold in the grade department. Sam’s celeb crush is new-MILF Beyoncé, who he claims he would take out to the most expensive restaurant in Scarborough! Who wouldn’t, hey?

Describe your character...

Alex is quite a confident flirty character that does some pretty crazy stuff. He’s also a caring guy, lives at home with his Gran and looks after her. He’s a nice guy.

Who is your favourite Skins character?

Sid - I just think the whole situation with him, Tony and Michelle was really funny.

Cooke’s another great one... and Chris from the first series too.

Is it hard to keep up with the legendary first series?

Yeah totally – it’s a massive pressure.

I’ve been watching the series since it started, so it’s crazy being a part of it!

What are your plans for 2012?

I’d love to get another acting job, but first I’ve got to finish my A-levels. I’m studying Maths, English and Drama.

Drama’s all about the magic ‘if’ and imagination and all that b*llocks they try and teach you!

What’s your ideal role?

My dream role would probably be the Joker in Batman. @sambjackson_

SEAN TEALE The self-proclaimed Grandpa of the group, Sean Teale plays badboy-turned-good guy Nick. The 19 year-old Tom Vek fan worked his magic on a couple of short films before his Skins gig came along, confessing “I was just lucky as hell man!”

Describe your character in three words...

Heart of gold.

Nick is involved in quite a few fight scenes. How fun are they?

Oh, they’re the ones man! You don’t have to act! Nah, it’s actually quite serious, and health and safety is really quite repetitive and boring... three hours of swing and one punch, man! But yeah, it’s really fun.

What about sex scenes?

Being 18 back then, I was like the flagbearer of sex along with Laya. They were like ‘You’re 18? Great - you’re f***ing’. It’s not nice - you’ve got a director sitting behind you going ‘Okay,

climax in 10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, okay, you’re c*mming... 4, 3, 2 1.’ You’re surrounded by people and it’s really weird.

Who is your favourite Skins character?

Chris. Joe Dempsy is a lovely, lovely guy, just like his character. Incredibly funny and such a lovable guy in the story that he went through.

Who is the most attractive person in the world?

Amber Heard from The Rum Diary – bisexual, gun-loving, car-driving. She’s amazing man! She’s incredibly talented, loves her Mustangs and goes against the grain, which is good.

Dream role?

I’d have loved to be in Fear And Loathing – Hunter S. Thompson is nuts! Tarantino characters are always fun too. So basically something I can sink my teeth into.

Plans for 2012?

To not be on the dole. To get a job - try and make it, you know! @seanjteale 49

SKINS SERIES 6

JESSICA SULA Stunning 17 year-old Jessica Sula joined Skins as Grace Violet Blood straight after her GCSE’s.

Dreaming of her future acting career, she noticed the Skins auditions advertised on the E4 website, convinced her dad that the trip was worth the petrol money and the rest is history!

Describe your character in three words...

Loving, charming and smart.

Are you and Grace similar?

Yes. I think there has to be an element of similarity between you and your character. It’s very much like, you take a section of yourself and amplify it and you become... Grace, for example. I’m not as studious as her but I think the way she is, the way she doesn’t get involved in fights and tries to get along with everyone, I like to think I’m like that.

Who is your favourite Skins character?

I really liked Tony. He was very mean, very, very naughty, and quite a sinister 50 / RWDMAG.COM

“I THINK THERE HAS TO BE AN ELEMENT OF SIMILARITY BETWEEN YOU AND YOUR CHARACTER. IT’S VERY MUCH LIKE, YOU TAKE A SECTION OF YOURSELF AND AMPLIFY IT AND YOU BECOME...”

character. It was really awful the way he treated Michelle.

Who is the most attractive person in the world?

Extremely tricky! Umm... Alexander Skarsgard, but he’s about 37, so that won’t happen.

What music are you into at the moment?

I know it sounds silly, but I’ve only just discovered Nirvana and their album Nevermind. I also really like the Black Keys.

Who would you love to work with?

Probably someone like Meryl Streep, but I would just be so nervous. I don’t know... Jeff Bridges or Jeremy Irons.

What would your dream job be?

I would love to be in a big American TV series like True Blood or Mad Men or Gossip Girl. I wouldn’t mind living there either, I mean, I have a green card because I lived there when I was little. So I’d like to maybe spend a couple of years doing independent films or theatre. @jesssula

WILL MERRICK 18 year-old ginger ninja Will Merrick got three A’s at A-level before heading straight for Skins stardom. Describing his character Alo as pretty much his ideal role, he’s gutted to have to give up the part. Time for a spin-off?!

Describe your character in three words...

Massive ginger knob.

Are you and your character similar?

Not really - he’s sort of like a confused puppy. When you tell a puppy off, they look at you like ‘What the f**k have I done wrong?’ He’s like that - he just doesn’t understand.

What did you think of the first series of Skins?

You can’t touch series one and two.

Like, even if they make more, it’ll never be as good. We’re not as good. Our stories aren’t as good.

Who is the most attractive person in the world?

Leticia Knight – she’s one of the Skins

producers and a hot, mature, careerdriven lady!

Music-wise, what are you into at the moment?

I’m not usually into the mainstream poppy thing, but Ed Sheeran, he’s a fellow ginger representing! I like ginger guys doing things they shouldn’t do, and this guy raps. There is a boundary though – I feel like saying to him ‘Man, you’ve cracked the music business, but rapping?’ But maybe the two of us can go for a drink and just sit there bigging each other up. I’m picturing him, me and Rupert Grint on the front of a magazine with the title ‘HOW THE F**K DID THEY DO IT?’ What are your plans for 2012?

Try and get another job. Obviously collab with Ed Sheeran – I’m not sure what I could bring to the table though, but I’m good at humming and whistling. I wanna go travelling too. A bunch of friends and I are gonna go take some ‘shrooms in a dingy hut in Madagascar or something. @willmerrick

“I’M NOT USUALLY INTO THE MAINSTREAM POPPY THING, BUT ED SHEERAN, HE’S A FELLOW GINGER REPRESENTING! I LIKE GINGER GUYS DOING THINGS THEY SHOULDN’T DO, AND THIS GUY RAPS.”

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INTERVIEW DYNAMO

MAGIC MOMENTS After being nominated for a National Television Award for his River Thames-walking television series Dynamo: Magician Impossible, the man with the supernatural skills is promising more in 2012. Danny Walker quizzes Bradford’s finest on that second series, style selections and who he’ll be spending Valentine’s Day with?!?!? image

by Jake Green

DYNAMO INTERVIEW IN NUMBERS:

The number of Twitter followers Dynamo has.

The number of times Dynamo looked at his broken iPhone (and/ or iPad).

Number of drinks Dynamo had (an extremely creamy hot chocolate).

The number of phones Dynamo had.

So you’ve been up to a zillion things since we last spoke...

Well, yeah, I had my TV series Dynamo: Magician Impossible, you might have seen that, it was pretty successful in that it featured my walking across the River Thames. ...as you do.

It’s possibly been one of the biggest pieces of magic to happen in the UK in quite a long time, so it’s definitely helping to build the legacy I’m trying to create. Also in the series, I predicted the future on Radio 1, with Scott Mills. I done a lot really, I’m just giving you the CliffsNotes [laughs].

How was your Christmas and New Year?

I done quite a lot to be honest, I mean everyone has Christmas parties but being a magician, I bring the party to the party so Christmas Day I was at Gordon Ramsey’s 52 / RWDMAG.COM

house, at Gordon’s Cook Along... we cooked the whole Christmas dinner. Well, he didn’t actually let me cook. I spent New Year in hospital with my Grandpa, he got me into magic. He’s quite old, he’s 84 now, he’s had a few strokes in the past. This year, tragically, he had another stroke which put him in hospital, so I spent New Year’s in hospital with my grandpa. He’s like the most important man in my life so there was no better place to be.

The support he’s got... he’s got fans of his own.

He was number two, worldwide trending topic on Twitter on New Year’s Eve. Everyone was praying for ‘Grandpa Dynamo’. He doesn’t fully understand what Twitter is [laughs] but we were grateful - him and my whole family.

That’s good to get that love at such an important time.

Yeah, he’s back at home now. He’s still old,

he’s still not 100% but he’s happy, he’s merry.

In terms of the series, did you think it would be so big/ successful?

I always thought it had potential to be massive, I didn’t think it would be as quick as it was. I thought it would be a slow burner but it was literally, the next day, things seemed to change for me. You know, I’ve had notoriety for a few years but things have changed now.

Things feel different.

Now you’re nominated for a National Television Award. We didn’t think anything from Channel Watch would be nominated for anything...

I’ve got to do a massive shout out to Watch for putting me on in the first place. They are the ones laughing now, they’re doing alright.

I think we’re the only cable channel that is nominated, one of the few anyway.

I’M NOT DOING THIS FOR THE MONEY, I LOVE TO DO IT AND MOST IMPORTANTLY, IT’S ALL ABOUT KEEPING MY GRANDFATHER’S LEGACY ALIVE.

If they did offer you a second series – I know you can’t talk about it – but what would you like to do?

Erm, even better magic. You’ve definitely got even better magic to look forward to in the future. Where he’s gonna pop up, I don’t know.

Follow me on Twitter (@Dynamomagician) and you’ll know. I’ll keep you posted.

The DVD is doing well as well...

Yeah, it’s doing amazingly well.

Dan [Dynamo’s manager]: It’s sold over 175k copies so far.

If someone offered you a million pounds to reveal a trick, would you?

[Thinks hard] A million pounds ain’t cool anymore... a billion pounds? I’m not doing this for the money, I love to do it and most importantly, it’s all about keeping my grandfather’s legacy alive.

One thing you’re noted for is your sense of style; describe your fashion game...

I’d like to say that I was relatively understated. I do like to wear good quality clothes. My typical style is I’d wear a plain pair of jeans, they’ll be a good quality denim, with some blacked-out shoes. Everything is plain but the accessories. Like a designer belt and a fancy watch or a fancy pair of trainers. I like to let my magic speak for itself [but then shows us a blacked out, matt black Rolex]... this is 1 of 25 in the world. But from a distance, it’s understated. I like cool stuff. I like blending into a crowd... and then, as Labrinth would say, ‘Cause an earthquake up in here’.

What will you be doing on Valentine’s Day? Probably spending it with a lady. Yeah.

What’s been you best Valentine’s present?

And what did you do last year?

Probably having a girl on Valentine’s Day. Especially if you get past that and... things of a sexual nature.

Dan [Dynamo’s Manager]: Everyday is Valentine’s Day for you [both laugh].

Who handles your love mail?

[To Dan] I used to get loads of pictures, what’s happened to them? [Both laugh]. I’ll be having a good day with a lady. I think she might be around for a little while longer too [laughs].

Do you know what you’ll be getting her?

I’ve got a couple of ideas. I sure she reads RWD so I don’t want to jinx it. Whatever you guys are doing make sure you treat your girl like a princess [insert ‘ahhhhh’ here].

Dynamo: Magician Impossible is out on DVD now. For more check @Dynamomagician

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RWD PROMOTION TMS

ST-ST-STUDIOUS Now he’s one third of the hottest hitmakers in the UK; but it’s CM’s Creative Music Production course that helped put Tom ‘Froe’ Barnes on the path to production glory discovers Hattie Collins...

Froe, Ben Kohn and Peter ‘Merf’ Kelleher had quite an impressive 2011; No.1’s with Professor Green (Read All About It) and Dappy (No Regrets) and album cuts for Wretch and Tinchy, we find out how practical experience helped Froe make major moves in the music industry.

What was your experience of CM? Obviously it gives you access to all the equipment and more than that, the teachers are good, they teach outside of the box a bit. I got quite a lot out of it.

Plus I was working with other people in a similar situation. At the time, CM were doing Pyroradio so it gave us a platform.

How did you find out about the course?

A mate of my mum knew about it. I’d been kicked out of school, no GCSE’s.

I had nothing really going for me, and they were the kind of place that didn’t 54 / RWDMAG.COM

care about that, all they care about is your musical ability. It was about putting people like me on the right track.

How did it prepare you for your career?

A lot of the teachers were working as musicians at the same time. One was a DJ, the band Asian Dub Foundation were upstairs, so that showed you the real way, rather than just sitting in a room completely detached from the music industry. Even if you’re an aspiring rapper, to understand the studio, and be in that environment is the best way to learn the trade.

How has it popped off so hard for you guys this last year?

We decided to start making the music that we enjoy. If you’re trying to do stuff that you don’t enjoy, it’s never going to come out that well. You’ve just got to go with what you believe in. We did

Spaceship for Tinchy and Dappy, that was our first single, and from then on we’ve just been really going for it.

Who are you working with right now?

We’ve got Dappy’s next single, Rockstar, he’s got Brian May playing the guitar!

We work well with Dappy – he’s like a driving force. If you’re doing a tune with him and it ain’t right, he’ll tell you to fix it. He’s a perfectionist. Dot [Rotten] is someone we also work well with. We’re also doing stuff with Syco for Little Mix, which is cool. We’ve got Professor Green, we’re doing stuff with Wretch and Dot, we’re really excited about that.

We’ve got a single with Devlin coming soon. What else? (Laughs) There’s a kid that we’re working with in the next few weeks called MNEK– he’s one to watch. We’ve got a single coming out with Devlin and Jagger, it’s a TMS featuring record called Keep On The Light. It’s us exploring our non-pop side. We want to cement ourselves as being consistently at the top of the UK music scene. @tmsldn and facebook/tmsldn To apply for a two year full-time course Creative Production & Business, go to CMsounds.com. Email everyone@ cmsounds.com or call 020 7377 0621

RWD PROMOTION MR FONC

WHAT THE FONC With the world’s top artists clambering for that dance-floor dominating European sound, it’s time for the new David Guetta to control the charts across the planet. As the industry’s most powerful A&Rs scour the continent for that next breakthrough beatmaker, they’d do well to check out London-bound Mr Fonc... words by Tego Sigel Born and raised in Amsterdam, Mr Fonc first got the ears of Axwell, Guetta and Morillo twitching in the early throes of 2012 with his unique sound described as, “House mainly, but with bits of hip hop, funk and pop”. Following breakout success in his homeland, which has spawned millions of views on YouTube, an Usher remix, four Dutch club chart smashes as well as German club chart success with Miami’s Dominica, it’s the UK that Fonc’s got his eyes set on next. “Moving to London is such a big step for me. It’s something I’m very proud of,” the laid-back Fonc smiles, before crediting his hometown with his 56 / RWDMAG.COM

demeanor. “Amsterdam is a very laidback city, and I am a very laid-back guy, I think.” With an Anglophile’s gaze across the pop climate, the heavily tipped producer is shooting for the stars, while planning his next-step.

“I like a lot of artists in the UK; Tinie, JLS, Adele...”

Backed to the hilt by a very ambitious team, Mr Fonc is ideally placed to mount a serious chart offensive in 2012 with his favourite production so far, which is yet to be released. “Nobody has heard it yet, but it’s the best beat I’ve made so far. I did it two weeks ago and I think it’s going to

be a big one for me.”

Taking inspiration at a very young age from his musician father, it’s his original love, the guitar, which he relies on to get him started. “I begin with the guitar. That’s what I played as a child, I play a bass though, I can drum a loop, I play keyboard and the song starts to take form.” Following a huge hit in waiting, Fonc will be completing his debut disc. “For my album, I would like to get a load of different artists and different styles of music together.”

Before that though, he’s got a far simpler goal in mind. “I want to have my music touch people, to get a reaction out of them. That’s what I want.” @Mr_Fonc and Foncproductions.com

“I WANT TO HAVE MY MUSIC TOUCH PEOPLE, TO GET A REACTION OUT OF THEM. THAT’S WHAT I WANT.”

UNWIND

GADGETS | GAMES | FILMS | GIG GUIDE | ALBUMS

>>

THE BEST OF STAYING IN... AND GOING OUT...

PLAYSTATION VITA

uk.playstation.com/psvita The next evolution of handheld gaming from Sony is nearly upon us – they seem to re-jig the portable PlayStation every six months – and it looks, feels and plays like they’ve finally cracked it.

A L E V I V A! VIT

>> 59

UNWIND GAMES

GAMES 2012 should be renamed as 2000 and Hell, because your thumbs are in trouble...

PREVIEW

ADVANCE PREVIEW MONTHLY MUST PLAY PlayStation Vita Sony The PlayStation Portable was on its last legs when Sony introduced the Vita. Amidst techy talk, chatroom chatter and annoying analysis from aficionados it heralded a buzz greater than the release of the PSP Go and a LOT less than the 3DS. That said, when you finally get to grips with the duel analog stick, 5-inch OLED touchscreen, rear touchpad, two VGA camera sporting, Sixaxis motion sensing, Bluetooth, WiFi and (optional) 3G enabled device, you too will be impressed. Despite a rocky start – holding the unit is a bit tricky when trying to access the rear touchpad – we can’t wait to put our hands through hell as they release more titles.

SSX Released 02/03/2012 EA PS3/ Xbox 360 When at an EA event last year we didn’t really get much hands-on time with the new instalment of SSX, especially as so much was on offer. What we did see/ play though is an all new reworking of the title that focused more on the map/ gameplay than insane, outrageously random, neck-breaking stunts... although they are still there. With real life mountain peaks (apparently “borrowed from NASA”, we’re told) we can’t wait to get to grips with the final version.

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OUT THIS MONTH: SoulCalibur V Namco PS3/ Xbox 360 Cast your mind back to 1999 – the same year that if you didn’t get a Dreamcast for Christmas you might as well have moved in with Gary Glitter – SoulCalibur was the one.

Flash forward and the series is somewhat waning against the might of first person shooters, long running football series’ and... outside. Nightmare and the weapon-wielders are back in what is ultimately a solid title for your next gen console, it’s a shame they’re not bring anything new new.

Modern Combat 3: Fallen Nation Gameloft Android/ iOS With quite-great visuals/ motion graphics/ framerate, Modern Combat 3 sees gamers plunge into yet another first person shooter... after downloading the 1GB of content of course. Starting as Corporal James Walker it’s you versus the bad guys again and whilst ripping off paying homage to the Call of Duty series you soon realise it’s about the biggest guns, throwing grenades (if you have them) and taking everything that appears on your screen out... Good stuff.

Final Fantasy XIII-2 Square Enix PS3/ Xbox 360 Apparently people still buy this game.

Temple Run Imangi Studios, LLC iOS After overhearing our editor Hattie Collins gassing about a game it was straight to iTunes to find out what she was blithering on about. Quite embarrassing, Hats knowing about something first but we’ll give her this one. Imangi’s Temple Run is an unputdownable app that sees gamers on the run from beasts that remind us of the aliens from Attack the Block. So addictive, Wiley even played it onstage at Eskimo Dance!

Send us your scores via @RWDmag.

TEMPLE RUN FEVER Temple Run Gaming Facts The highest score of all time on Temple Run, according to the Gamercentre, is 2,147,483,647 by ‘torresky’.

The last three comments on the App Store are “So addictive I keep playing it at work! Brilliant game.” by Uggidoo.

“Addictive or wat!! Worth downloading definitely.. Thumbs up :-)” by Chavvy 1 “Really good game however could be improved by having lives and different stages with different scenery !!!!!!!” by Mdjahbj Top tip You can resurrect twice in one run if you buy two resurrections and once you go 1000m after using the 1st one, you can use a 2nd one. @JMEBBK on Temple Run: Temple Run is taking over our lives people. Every text I get “beat that Bruv” The RWD teams’ Scores @Gr0gson: 4,836,414 @TegoSigel: 572,125 @HattieCollins: 275,000 @DannyWalker1: 34,776 (man only played for a hour...

A HOUR) 61

UNWIND WITH DAVID GYASI

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Unwind With DAVID GYASI

There’s nothing we love more than when one of our own strikes deep into the heart of Hollywood. From tiny parts in The Bill back in the day to box-office smash The Dark Knight, the forthcoming Cloud Atlas, and a lead role in BBC2’s forthcoming series White Heat, David Gyasi is on of the UK’s fastest rising acting talents. Ralph Hardy finds out how the dad of two unwinds... image by James Pearson-Howes styling by PC Williams

Do you ever find yourself acting outside of acting? Like when you go to the post office, do you find yourself being a character?

When I went to LA, I had to work on my accent so I’d go into the post office and speak in an American accent. And then I really had to test myself so I went into a barbershop and spoke in an American accent and got away with that! So I do stuff like that, but it’s quite nice to just be neutral, just sort of be the father and the husband that I am and be myself.

How are your family finding your fame?

It’s very interesting for them because my 12 year-old daughter was around when I was a student. So she’s seen everything of me, the fat times, everything (laughs).

I was saying to my wife, she’s 12 now and we’re going to premieres and things like that and that’s quite exciting for her as it would be for any 12 year-old.

When she was three, she was at the cinema watching Winnie the Pooh and an advert I’d done came up on this big screen. She was with my mother-in-law who said ‘Look there’s Daddy’ and she went ‘Yeah I know’ (laughs) like it was normal. My son, we went to the Happy Feet 2 premiere, but I don’t think he quite grasped what I do for a living. He thinks I work for the trains, because they drop me off at the train station. It’s great because they see me and my wife working hard and that’s great.

What can you tell us about The Dark Knight Rises and your film with Tom Hanks, Cloud Atlas?

I can’t tell you much about the Batman film because it is so secretive. What I can tell you about Cloud Atlas is that I saw seven minutes of what we’d shot and it is epic. It is mind-blowing.

What’s your role in Cloud Atlas?

I play three roles in it. So in this film, there’s six different sections, one in 1836, another one in 1870, one in 1939, 2012, 2145, 2300. So I play a

I’m all about saluting a young man.

What do you do to unwind?

I exercise a little bit, I read. I like Andrea Levy who did Small Island. I tend to like stories that are based on history.

So yeah, I do that and I hang out with friends, in bars, restaurants...

What’s the type of conversation a typical 31 year-old speaks on?

We’re into politics and football. I’m quite a big football fan. I support Liverpool. I like watching football as well as playing.

How often do you play?

About once a week. But when I’m working, I’m not insured to play so that is quite frustrating; if I damage my leg, it’s a problem. So I’m not allowed to play.

What’s your favourite film?

Coming To America is up there, Apocalypse Now is up there too.

Hurricane and Life is Beautiful as well; watch that, it’s amazing.

White Heat airs on BBC2 from March.

“I CAN’T TELL YOU MUCH ABOUT THE BATMAN FILM BECAUSE IT IS SO SECRETIVE. WHAT I CAN TELL YOU ABOUT CLOUD ATLAS IS THAT I SAW SEVEN MINUTES OF WHAT WE’D SHOT AND IT IS EPIC. IT IS MIND-BLOWING.” role in 1836 called Autua, who is this amazing man. He is a sailor who is captured as a slave who manages to run away and then save someone’s life.

His whole thing is about him needing to be free. So in a way I play a soul. The first one says, I need to be free and this situation is bad for me. The second is a journalist like yourself who sees injustice taking place in the world and takes pictures and writes articles and the third one is during the last period of the film and he is a president-like figure who is dealing with everything, helping people. So the soul evolves quite nicely.

What I loved about Autua was his spirit, because even in 1836 he says ‘This is wrong’. He thinks outside of the box and that’s what attracted me to the film.

Have you ever thought about fighting crime? In the sense of being a hidden hero, like Batman.

Yeah I do, (laughs). On a serious note, the certain stereotypical views that people hold of us and our people, I think it’s important to hold yourself well and encourage and build young people up.

NANDOS SKANK: Do you eat at Nandos?

Yes, I do eat at Nandos.

What’s your favourite selection of meals?

I’m a half chicken kind of man.

Medium hot? Extra hot?

I’m a medium hot guy. Although, I do like very hot food, I tend to like very hot food at my mum’s house because I get sweaty. I like to do that at my mum’s house, where it’s safe.

But when you’re at Nandos it’s half chicken, medium hot. And obviously you can have some hot sauce on the side, so when you get to the end you need to deal with the bones. You can dip a little bit; I know that’s not decorum but you need to eat!

Last question! What question would you like me to ask you that I haven’t? (laughs) How a journalist covers his tracks! Well I liked the Nandos question, it’s an important question to ask Ralph!

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UNWIND FILMS

FILMS The only resolution you need this year is to only watch good films...

This Means War 20th Century Fox Cert TBC Much like the computer game Spy Vs. Spy – which originally appeared on the Commodore 64 and later the PS2 – this Tom Hardy (Inception), Chris Pine (Star Trek) and Reese Witherspoon (Legally Blonde) starring, McG (Charlie’s Angels) directed, full-on, actionloaded comedy, sees two agents go head to head. Kicking off when the best friends realise they’re dating the same girl, their missions for the CIA suddenly become less important.

This is well worth a trip down to the local cinema – via Tescos to pick up chocolate raisins, sweet and salty popcorn and a mango Rubicon of course. With the final Dark Knight on the way, it could be a very good year for Tom ‘Bain’ Hardy.

ADVANCE PREVIEW Goon E1 Entertainment Films Cert TBC Thinking this would just be a toothless Steve Stifler on skates, zinging around on the ice like a headless chicken whilst punching people in the face, Seann William Scott comes out of his prank-pulling comfort zone to play a toothless Doug Glatt on skates who zings around on the ice like a headless chicken whilst punching people in the face. Goon is not the greatest flick but it is funny in many places, especially when ‘Doug’ sees red, which is every five minutes.

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Payback Season Revolver Cert 18 Two of Britain’s fastest rising acting talents - Adam Deacon [Jerome] and David Ajala [Baron]- are childhood friends headed in very different directions. Jerome’s football skills have carried him to the verge of an international call-up, while local gang-leader Baron aims to seek financial recompense for protecting the hotly tipped ‘baller, and his family, from the ills of the old estate. As Jerome’s career continues to skyrocket, his mental state approaches breaking point, with the cerebral assaults of Baron and his star-struck henchmen almost certain to end in disaster. A modern tale of exploitation and jealousy, this stylish thriller pulls no punches in filling the gaps between rags and riches. (TS)

FINAL WORD WARWICK DAVIS

FINAL WORD: WARWICK DAVIS Starting out in Star Wars at the age of just 11, Warwick Davis went on to star in a mental line up of movies including cult film Leprechaun and the Harry Potter series. Currently making us lol with Life’s Too Short, Francesca Dunn caught up with everyone’s favourite little man, Mr. Warwick Davis.

You just launched the new Star Wars game, The Old Republic. Have you tested it out?

I have! It’s most impressive! Who said that in Star Wars? Darth Vader probably...

But anyway, it’s cool and just so big. I love the fact that even if you don’t want to have a fight, you can just jump in a spaceship and fly to another planet. It’s amazing! When I was 11 I was in Star Wars, and I used to go on set as Wicket the Ewok and battle Storm Troopers and things like that. Nowadays we can step into a virtual world and do pretty much the same thing!

You’ve worked with some fantastic directors, including George Lucas. Who else would you love to work with?

I’ve never worked with Spielberg, so that’s an ambition as far as directors go.

But I’ve been lucky, I’ve worked with the best in the industry. Also JJ Abrahams – I loved Super 8 and I think to work with him would be cool!

What’s the best story you have from the set of Life’s Too Short?

Working with Johnny Depp, whilst in a toilet is definitely up there as one of the 66 / RWDMAG.COM

weirdest things that I’ve ever done in my life. Also just Ricky and his schoolboy kind of attitude to stuff. I mean, he’s a brilliant director, but sometimes he just goes off on a tangent and will play practical jokes. One time we were filming a shot that is in the outtakes where I go up to the door of my house and my wife has changed the locks - we got the take, and as I went up to the door Ricky jumped up behind the window and went ‘RARGHH’! I must have at jumped at least two feet backwards. He was still laughing about it the next day.

You’ve worn some legendary costumes what’s your favourite?

Marvin in Hitchhikers Guide To The Galaxy was an amazing costume – the technology in that thing was incredible!

I had battery packs, fans for oxygen, two TV monitors so I could see where I was going, The most low-tech part of that costume was my script, taped into the inside of the head so that I could read all of my lines! It was perfect! Griphook in the last Harry Potter was, I think, the most prosthetic makeup that I’ve ever worn. It took four hours every day.

You’re married with children, but do you have any celebrity crushes?

Not really! My wife’s gonna read this and I’ll be snookered then!

Have you got any bizarre fans?

Sometimes you get fans that are a bit.. a bit... different. Star Wars fans are lovely.

Leprechaun fans are slightly strange... more extreme, slightly deranged... but they love those films! We’ve done six of them. They come and try to speak in an Irish accent to you and dance around doing a bit of a jig as they’re talking to you [laughs].

Can you still speak any Ewok?

“Yubnub” I believe means yippee.

‘Chucha’ I don’t know what that means... and ‘Lurdow’ means idiot.

What else are you working on right now?

Well I’ve always wanted to have a talk show, and I’ve started making some progress in that field. And obviously to play Star Wars: Old Republic as much as possible! Now, animal!

Warwick was speaking at the launch of Star Wars: The Old Republic, out now on PC. @warwickadavis. Watch the interview online at RWDmag.com