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The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2020 - Page 17
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DECEMBER 2020
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What’s going on
Weblox and siobhan drop more fire content
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Page 18 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2020
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THE HOTTEST ENTERTAINMENT SUPPLEMENT
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Melanie C Spices up the Top 10 after 17 years
I
t is hard to believe that it has been 24 years since the world-wide phenomena of the Spice Girls’ debut single ‘Wannabe’ hit number one on charts all around the world. Throughout the Spice Girls reign in the late 90s, it was Sporty Spice Melanie C who stood out the most with her distinctive vocals. Now in 2020 Melanie C releases her eighth (yes eighth!) solo studio album to critical acclaim and a top 10 position in the official UK album charts and an impressive number one in the UK official independent albums chart. The self-titled album ‘Melanie C’ is, simply put, a perfect dancepop album. This album takes ‘girl
power’ to a whole new level. It is all about empowerment, honesty and being kind to yourself. The tone is set with the dance album opener, the honest ‘Who I Am’ where Mel professes “I was building my amour so I could fit in. To avoid any drama I would shut my mouth, I hid…” The song builds to selfacceptance and Mel tells us that she is not going to apologise for who she is. This is followed by a blast of dark electroncica, ‘Blame It On Me’. The lyrics tells a story of an emotionally abusive relationship “Turns out you were the poison, Said I'm hearing voices, Said it's paranoia…” Despite these difficult lyrics the album as a whole is both
positive and empowering. A highlight is the stunning ‘Fearless’ featuring Nadia Rose where we are encouraged to “Learn to be fearless, take a dive to the deepest.” They make us believe in ourselves and as you hear the song you feel your confidence and selfbelief growing. Melanie C has cowritten every track on the album which is why we invest in every word she sings. This is a personal and reflective album with an excellent blend of pop, dance and electronic and a mix of high energy tracks and ballads. The album takes us on a musical journey and when the final track ‘End of Everything’ arrives you can’t quite believe it is
the end of the album which is why, very cleverly, the deluxe album also comes with a bonus disc. The clear highlight is the cover of Rui Da Silva’s track ‘Touch Me’. A firm fan favourite, this is a great club track and shows us a side to Melanie C that we haven’t seen before. The bonus disc contains an extra six tracks comprising two remixes, one cover version and three original tracks including the party anthem ‘High Heels’ featuring the hugely talented LGBTQ+ collective ‘Sink The Pink’ which closes the album. Giving this album 5 out of 5 is a no brainer. Back in the 90s it was The Spice Girls who spiced up our lives but nearly 25 years later
it is Melanie C who is giving us well needed positivity which is so apt at this time. Welcome back Melanie C – we can’t wait to see what you come out with next. Melanie C by Mel C gets 5/5
With this being Melanie C’s eighth studio album (11th if we include the Spice Girls) my top 3 Melanie C solo albums to (re)visit are: Northern Star (1999) -5/5 The Sea (2011) – 4/5 Melanie C (2020) - 5/5
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Lady Leshurr The UK’s Queen of Grime, Lady Leshurr, says it’s “absolutely huge” to be starring in a nationwide campaign for the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, and that “Brum is always gonna be in my blood”. The Solihull-born, MOBO Award winning rapper, singer, songwriter and producer said it was an honour to represent her home city in the build up to the Commonwealth Games, the biggest sporting event in the UK since the London 2012 Olympics: “This is absolutely huge! I just didn’t think I’d ever be asked to do anything like this. I’m just really happy they chose me to be at the forefront and representing it. Obviously, Brum is always gonna be in my blood, in my veins. I scream it everywhere I go, no matter where I am in the world. I always do a song and say I’m from Birmingham.” Lady Leshurr brings her energy to Birmingham 2022’s most significant campaign to date, where she features alongside elite athletes from the West Midlands.
The Specials playing live in hometown Coventry in 2021
F
ollowing the release of their eighth studio album Encore, last year to critical acclaim, the band comprising Terry Hall, Lynval Golding and Horace Panter, hit the road again. The genius of the Specials is that they are observers, not commentators and they know that pop music is influential, important and exhilarating. They are a band embedded in this country's DNA, and especially in the DNA of Coventry, City of Culture 2021. It is impossible to envisage the musical landscape without them, from the startling, angular Gangsters in 1979, to their swan song, the epoch-making Ghost Town in 1981. They infuse ska with punk and homegrown political anxiety with wider issues. The skill of re-contextualising what has gone before and writing new songs that fuse this
Saleh Shaibi Owner of Saleh & Sons
heritage with all that is current. Throughout the decades the Special's influence has never gone away. And we need it. "I'm aware our work has been out there for forty years and I'm so grateful for what we've done, I pinch myself sometimes," says Lynval.
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"I can pat myself on the back now, and say 'Well done,' because that what my father says to me. As a band, making this record, it was the closest we'd ever been." "That's the thing with the Specials," says Horace. "We are three very different people, but you put us together
and we become the greatest rock 'n' roll band in the world, as far as I'm concerned. Something remarkable happens." Something remarkable will happen in 2021, when The Specials walk out onto the stage at the Ricoh Indoor Arena, Coventry on September 11th.
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The Sights and Sounds of ‘Minute Taker’ Who Is The Mystery Behind The Name? By Mandip Singh Taunque a cool artist name.
E
thereal, mysterious and haunting are some of the words I use to describe the massive talent of British singer-songwriter and producer ‘Minute Taker’ otherwise known as Ben McGarvey. Taking inspiration from artists such as Kate Bush, Tori Amos and David Bowie, Minute Taker’s music is both nostalgic and current blending synths with electronica with vocals that causes your heart to skip a beat and give you shivers and tears to match. You can’t help but be transported to another time and space when you listen to his music. Even the name ‘Minute Taker’ seems cryptic. The Phoenix is pleased to interview the man behind the artistry, Ben McGarvey, to discuss this and his music.
I describe your music ethereal, mysterious and haunting and Time Out describes your music as having “haunting melodies, electronic beats and soulful singing" how would you describe your music to our Phoenix readers?
I’ve always found it difficult to describe my music. When people ask me what kind of music I make I still go blank to this day haha. I think it’s very hard to hear your own music objectively. When I’m marketing my music I tend to use the words that other people use, like some of the ones you mentioned; “ethereal”, “otherworldly”, etc, as those words do seem to come up a lot so that must be how people perceive it. My music has never really comfortably fitted into a genre so it’s always been a challenge for me to describe it really, although my more recent music is more synth-pop orientated, which helps. Quite often I just tell people who I’m inspired by, such as Kate Bush, David Bowie, etc, in the hope that that might give some idea of the type of music I do, but of course they are very eclectic also!
Where does the name ‘Minute Taker’ come from?
I released my first album in 2008 under my own name but I soon realised I didn’t like using it and would prefer to use a pseudonym. It took me quite a while to find a name I liked that wasn’t already taken. I was working as a Minute Taker in an office at the time, taking minutes for meetings, and it struck me that it could be
I liked the way it could be interpreted in different ways, how to me it kind of sounded mundane and otherworldly at the same time! I used to daydream a lot at work, dreaming up ideas for songs, and I had visions of an almighty time lord reaching down from the clouds to steal the minutes, haha! So the name stuck and I’ve used it ever since.
You have produced several audio-visual shows over the years and in 2019 you produced ‘Wolf Hours’ exploring the psyches of several gay men at different points in time over the past century. What have been the inspirations behind shows such as these?
Well, when writing songs, I always start with wanting to express my own experiences and interests really. My first audiovisual show ‘To Love Somebody Melancholy’ back in 2015 explored the link between depression and creativity for artists, and looked at the impact their behaviours had on those closest to them. I’ve suffered from depression at different points in my life and that project really allowed me to explore a lot of those feelings, and to see things from the perspective of others around me. Similarly with my latest audiovisual show ‘Wolf Hours’, I’ve always been interested in hearing about the lives and experiences of other gay people, particualry at different pionts in time; the clandestine lifestyles they led, the relationships they had and the way they were affected by the attitudes and political climate of their time. It gave me an opportunity to not just reflect on my own experiences but to delve into autobiographies, documentaries and even personal accounts from volunteers I interviewed, with the aim of portraying people’s unheard stories and giving a sense of their inner worlds. I think there’s still a lot of stereotypes surrounding gay people and gay culture due to the way we are portrayed in the media. Growing up in the 80s and 90s I struggled to find a gay role model in the public eye who I could really relate to and look up to.
I’ve always been interested in putting forward different, real-life perspectives on what it means to be gay, without resorting to cliches. So I guess that was really what inspired the show, along with a fascination with time travel and visiting the world at different points in time!
For me what makes you an interesting artist to follow is your ‘Secret Songs’ subscription service, how exactly does it work?
‘Secret Songs’ is a series of albums I make that aren’t on general release. They feature unreleased songs, mixes and cover versions and I make each CD box and leaflet by hand to give them more of a personal touch. People subscribe to the series and get a new album 2-3 times a year. A lot of independent artists are doing similar things now with Patreon, Bandcamp, etc, offering fan clubs which feature exclusive content in exchange for monthly or yearly contributions from fans. It’s a great way for us artists to have a regular income so we can pay the bills while we develop new work, which is always the big challenge! It’s also great for the fans as they get lots of exclusive stuff and get to directly contribute to the artists they like, so it works well all round really. It’s been a godsend for me this year, given the current situation. I don’t know what I would have done without that support from my fans. They’re awesome.
If you could record with another artist who would you choose?
Kate Bush!
How easy or hard is it to establish yourself as a musical artist without the backing of a major record label?
Well, fortunately these days it’s much easier than it ever was for independent artists as we can use the internet to con-
nect with potential new fans all around the world. Until 10 or 15 years ago it seems it really was a case of getting a record deal or remaining unheard, but now lots of independent artists are thriving by learning how to promote themselves online and build their audiences. It also allows us to have full control over all aspects of our art too, rather than being at the mercy of label executives who only really care about getting a return on their investment. I count myself very lucky to be making music in this day and age.
Kylie Minogue has recently talked about recording the majority of her new album in lockdown, how has the pandemic and recent lockdown impacted you?
Well luckily, because I do all my stuff from home anyway in my home studio, and all of my sales and promotion too, lockdown hasn’t really affected me much. Aside from not being able to play any live shows that is, although I didn’t have any planned fortunately. It’s a real shame for all the musicians who rely on playing live for their main source of income.
What projects are you working on right now?
I’ve been busy finishing off my new album ‘Wolf Hours’ which I’m hoping to release early next year. I’ve also been demoing some new songs including a couple of collaborations with someone over in Costa Rica which I’m very excited about! I’m soon going to be recording and planning the next volume of my ‘Secret Songs’ series too which I’m hoping to put out before the end of the year.
What are your aspirations for the future?
Really all I’ve ever wanted is to make my albums and share them with people, so I just want to continue to be able to do that and hopefully build my audience more along the way so there’s more people to share the songs with. I’d love to do more collaborating too and continue to get better at making music videos which has become a big passion of mine. You can follow Minute Taker across all social media platforms including MinuteTakerMusic on Facebook or visit www.minutetaker.net.
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ENTERTAINMENT
The Return of Talking Shakespeare
F
ollowing the success of the first series of ‘Talking Shakespeare’ earlier this year, the RSC is delighted to confirm the return of the popular online conversation. Hosted by RSC Artistic Director, Gregory Doran, guests confirmed for the new series of Talking Shakespeare include David Oyelowo, Ian McKellen, Helen Mirren, Roger Allam, and Jane Lapotaire with further dates and names to be announced. The live, online event series runs weekly on a Monday from 6-7pm from 16 November – 14 December and is open to Subscribers, Members and Patrons of the Royal Shakespeare Company. The events are free as a thank you for the ongoing support given to the Company during the pandemic, but with a suggested donation of £10. Those interested
can become subscribers for as little as £20 per year. Further details of how to support can be found at: rsc.org.uk/support/ become-a-member-supporter All donations received will go towards the Keep Your RSC campaign to help secure the future of the RSC and its mission to transform lives through amazing experiences of Shakespeare and great theatre. The previous series of Talking Shakespeare, which ran over twelve weeks, attracted supporters from seventeen countries and raised over £50,000 in donations and with 400 new members joining in order to access the events. Members of the RSC’s Lead Associate School network and Next Generation participants were also able to join the events for free. RSC Members, Patrons and Subscribers can also
take advantage of a series of online talks and events which delve deeper into the RSC’s programme. On Wednesday 20 January, RSC Artistic Director Gregory Doran will be joined by John Wyver, broadcast historian and producer of ‘RSC Live from Stratfordupon-Avon’ series to discuss the highlights and challenges of adapting Shakespeare for the screen. This will be followed by an exclusive screening of ‘Julius Caesar’ on Thursday 21 January. Directed by Gregory Doran, this seminal 2012 production by the RSC relocates Shakespeare’s political thriller to contemporary Africa. The screening will be available to subscribers, members and patrons from Thursday 21 January for a limited time only.
Ninder Johal DL Nachural Records/Events/ Publisher Celebrating our Community Leaders this Christmas!
I’m Lovin’ It Live Both Lewis Capaldi and Stormzy ensured the UK was able to forget about the outside world for a few hours, with two of the best performances of 2020. The weekend of music opened on with highly anticipated performances featuring top UK artists Becky Hill and Jess Glynne, plus Kaiser Chiefs, Olly Murs and Craig David brought Saturday night entertainment to the masses British chart-topping rapper Stormzy was on top-form for his last remaining live appearance in 2020. Whether singing or rapping, Stormzy who dubbed himself ‘big Michael’ throughout the 45 minute set, had audiences captivated. The grime star connected with viewers at-home, requesting everyone joined in and danced – bringing a lift to the UK at a time when people needed it most. Bringing more than just the music, Capaldi did not
disappoint with unique moments of pure joy from the Scottish singer-songwriter. Whether it was his powerful, raw voice belting out his ‘Somebody You Loved’ favourite, or just his love for McNuggets or “nuggies” as Lewis lovingly calls them, he kept audiences enthralled with his talent. Highlights included a heartfelt rendition of ‘Bruises’ as well as his light-hearted banter to home crowds. Michelle Graham-Clare, Vice President, Marketing and Menu, McDonald’s UK and Ireland said: “We wanted to host the I’m Lovin’ It Live weekend to thank crew and reward customers during this difficult year and we’ve been absolutely blown away by the response. “This weekend was hard for many reasons, so hopefully a few hours of free, topclass entertainment from the UK’s biggest artists allowed audiences to escape and bring a smile to their faces.”
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0121 339 5885 (Birmingham) l The Stereophonics return to Arena Birmingham on February 29th
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Dream of Turning Loss into Legacy Comes True During Lockdown
l Elaine with Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes by Sheenah Alcock
J
amaicans are a passionate people, so perhaps it’s no real surprise that one of their most remarkable contributions to world cuisine is a bold, full-bodied cake that leaves you wanting more. Rum cake is a delicacy with deep cultural and historical roots: the sugar, molasses and rum which make the cake so unique, rich and enjoyable are also a reminder of hundreds of years of Jamaican history, rooted in the island’s colonial past. Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes are no different, made to a secret family recipe passed down from generation to generation, mother
“Vie was such a lovely sister-in-law and I really miss her. I’m very happy to see my niece doing something positive to keep her memory alive. I wish you all the best hun.”
- Elaine’s Aunt Lolita who has lived in Edgbaston for over 40 years to daughter, brim full of juicy fruits and real Jamaican rum. Agnes Viola Henry, aka “Vie”, was a strong, kind Jamaican woman, a descendent of slaves whose ancestors worked the island’s sugar cane fields. Like many who travelled to Britain in the 1960’s hoping for a better life, she settled and worked hard for her family, but never forgot her Jamaican heritage, becoming
renowned for her very rummy rum cakes. Sadly, Vie is no longer with us. However, her youngest daughter Elaine was determined to mark her passing with a fitting tribute to her inspirational mother and Jamaican heritage. The idea of Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes was born. Elaine was
born in Aldershot, Hampshire, spent most of her adolescent years in Ash Vale, Surrey and lived in
France for over 20 years of her adult life. When she moved to the tranquil surroundings of the Lake District in 2019, she certainly wasn’t expecting to find one of the key ingredients for Vie’s cakes right under her nose, let alone a whole host of links to her Jamaican roots.
l Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes - Flower by Stuart Turner
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l Agnes Viola Henry aka Vie
Exploring her new home, Elaine took a visit to the coastal Georgian town of Whitehaven, discovering The Rum Story and Jefferson’s. Founded in 1785, Jefferson’s is a family wine and spirits business. The company plied its trade across the globe until 1998. Like many merchants from Cumberland and Westmorland, including the Lutwidge’s (of Lewis Carroll fame), Jefferson’s had interests in the Caribbean, interests with deep-seated links to the ‘Triangular Trade’ (slaves, sugar and rum). Jefferson’s 1785 Dark Rum bears testament to that. Jamaica and Cumbria have a shared heritage which links them indelibly, even to this day, with references across the island to these deep-seated connections: Westmoreland,
Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes are no different, made to a secret family recipe passed down from generation to generation
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Check out the full range of Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes, including Gluten-Free versions!
Rummy - £11.95 Golden cakes made with a 35% spiced gold Jamaican rum, just the thing for any occasion.
Kendal, Carlisle Bay and Cumberland. Inspired by her journey of discovery, Elaine set about working with expert cake maker Lisa Smith from Ginger Bakers, to craft a superlative range of cakes - some made with Jefferson’s rum - to honour her mother Vie, her roots and Cumbria’s shared heritage with Jamaica. Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes launched a crowdfunding campaign in July to raise £5000 to buy a van for the blossoming company. Company founder Elaine Rémy chose the 6th July as it is her
parents’ wedding anniversary and the secret rummy recipe that inspired the business was her mother Vie’s. Elaine explained further: “My parent’s were married for 54 years and gave me so much in their lifetime, their wedding anniversary just felt like the right day to launch. “In all I do, I want to honour them and in particular my mother, Agnes Viola Henry, aka “Vie”. “Her family recipe passed down from generation to generation is now being enjoyed by so many people and I’m sure if mum was still here she’d be very proud.”
Rummier - £12.95 Delectably mysterious cakes made with a 40% dark Jamaican rum. A special edition Christmas cake will be made using Jefferson’s 1785 Extra Fine Dark Rum. The campaign was successful with 131 backers raising over £6,000. This was matched by NatWest Back Her Business who donated a further £5,000 bringing the grand total to over £11,000. Elaine adds: “It’s an amazingly uplifting feeling to be supported by people who want to see Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes succeed, especially as many of these people are strangers. “I am incredibly grateful to all who have supported me so far.” Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes are baked in The Lake District, Cumbria in an award-winning
Rummiest - £13.95 Boozy celebration cakes made with a 63% white over-proof Jamaican rum.
bakery which has achieved “green certification”. They are hand wrapped and sustainably packaged using biodegradable, compostable, cellulose (cellophane) food grade bags, raffia and card. Box filler is shredded paper. The cakes have a shelf life of 6 months from production and the 600g fruit cakes come whole and are best cut into 6 100g slices using a cake knife. Packaging Designs above by Claire Steele - Lil’ Creative
l Photo by Stuart Turner
COMPETITION First Prize : Any 3 Cakes Second Prize : Any 2 Cakes Third Prize : Any Cake
For your chance to win one of 3 prizes of Vie’s Jamaican Rum Cakes just answer the very simple question below!
What is the name of the family owned Wine and Spirit company that Elaine found when she moved to the Lake District? a) Jefferson’s b) Murphy’s c) Henry’s
l Photo by Victoria Sedgwick
Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Vie’s Rum Cake Competition”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 18th December 2020. There is no cash alternative.
www.viesjamaicanrumcakes.co.uk Linkedin.com/in/elaineincumbria | Facebook.com/viesjamaicanrumcakes Instagram.com/viesjamaicanrumcakes | Twitter.com/viesjrumcakes
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Page 24 - The Phoenix Newspaper - December 2020
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Christmas GIFT Chris Kamara - And A Happy New Year - £9.99 His irreverent style and infectious enthusiasm in analysing matches for Sky Sports’ Gillette Soccer Special on Saturday afternoons reporting live from matches has seen the nation take Chris Kamara to their heart as a national treasure. ‘…And A Happy New Year’ continues Kammy’s swing and
big band sound from his surprise top 10 hit album last year, featuring Xmas standards such as ‘White Christmas’, ‘In The Bleak Midwinter’, and ‘Blue Christmas’; alongside a swing cover of Wizard’s classic ‘ I Wish It Could Be Christmas Everyday’. Available online incl at Amazon.
Guylian Belgian Chocolate Bars - from £2.00 each Four individually wrapped Belgian Chocolate bars, hermetically sealed for deliciously fresh chocolate everytime. Popular flavours including Milk, Dark, Hazelnut and Salted
Caramel made with top quality Belgian chocolate and premium ingredients including 100% cocoa butter. Available up and down the high street, and online.
Beluga Vodka Celebration £39.99 Made in the heart of Siberia, Beluga Noble Vodka is an exceptionally smooth, full-bodied vodka. Beluga Vodka Celebration will bring a touch of gold to any festive celebrations. Available from Master of Malt, Selfridges and independent retailers
World Of Sport Top Trumps Quiz £9.99 Test your knowledge on all things Sports with 500 questions on a variety of sports from cycling to football and rugby to swimming. Comes in a cool, plastic portable case, 500 questions on everything Sports related Age 8+, Available on Amazon.
Virtual Birmingham Christmas Gifts Market Birmingham Museums has created The Virtual Birmingham Christmas Gifts Market for those missing the Christmas Markets this year! This online event takes place until the 13th December and supports local businesses from across Birmingham. There are over 80 stalls and 1700 members in the group with both numbers growing. Check it out at https://bit.ly/39DnS8j
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T GUIDE Black Tower Wines - £5
M
uch-loved wine brand Black Tower has the perfect offering for Christmas with their Smooth Red wine, soft, fruity and bursting with red berry flavours. Easy on the palate, the wine has notes of blackberries and a subtle spice, making it perfect for the colder months. Smooth Red is now available to buy in Tesco supermarkets nationwide, along with Fruity White, priced at £5. ASDA, Morrisons and Sainsbury’s also stock a range of Black Tower wines. Black Tower white and rosé wines can be served cold or lightly chilled for the most refreshing glass to satisfy your taste buds, while the red should be served at room temperature. Enjoy a glass of Black Tower on its own or with your favourite food
COMPETITION For your chance to win one of many bottles of Black Tower Smooth Red wine, just answer the simple question below.
What flavour notes does the Smooth Red wine have? a) Strawberries & cinnamon b) Blackberries & subtle spice c) Cherries & lemon Just email your answer, with your name, address and contact number to competitions@thephoenixnewspaper.com with the subject “Black Tower Competition”. Competition closes at 23.59 on 18th December 2020. There is no cash alternative.
Saturday Club Story Subscription Box from £19.99 Support Midlands Air Ambulance £1.50 - £20.00 Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is ensuring Christmas shoppers get their stockingfiller needs fulfilled with its brand-new range of festive merchandise, and in turn is encouraging supporters to help make Christmas missions possible.
The new extended range includes: Charity branded face coverings, Limited edition mugs, Pet bandanas, Christmas cards, Beanie hats, Teddy bears and more.Available at midlandsairambulance. com
This Christmas surprise your little ones with a Saturday Club Story box which aims to nurture empathy, introduce mindfulness and develop an emotional toolkit for kids aged 3 - 7years old. The subscription box is available as a one-time monthly purchase or as a 6 month and annual subscription from www.saturdayclubbox.com from £19.99
Truckle Cheese 14” Classic Hamper - £45.00
This 14” classic hamper contains: 200G farmhouse mature cheddar truckle, 200G Wensleydale with lemon and honey truckle, Cornish charcuterie
Dress the Birmingham Bull Christmas Card £2.40 Get crafty this Christmas and send a card that can be transformed into a fun desktop decoration. ‘Dress the Birmingham Bull’ Christmas cards feature four of the Bullring Bull’s Christmas outfits. Simply cut around the dotted line and dress the bull in your favourite. 10% of sales donated to University Hospitals Birmingham Charity Young Patients with Cancer. Available online at www.yeticardsandgifts.com
rillette pate, 200G spicy strawberry and caramelised onion chutney and a Packet of 15 Orkney caramelised onion biscuits. Available at www.trucklecheese.co.uk.
hexxas Wall Art from £14.99 Create a unique collage with CEWE hexagonal wall tiles, hexxas. The magnetic hanging system means they can reposition their pictures and rearrange the display whenever they fancy! This stylish statement piece will add a personal touch to any room in their home. This and more available from www.cewe-photoworld.com.
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IT’S CRIIISPMAAS! Richard Loftus Director of Sales & Marketing at THSH Celebrating our Community Leaders this Christmas!
Walkers and LadBaby raise money for the Trussell Trust
W
alkers unveiled its muchanticipated Christmas ad, starring sausage-roll-loving social media star, LadBaby – real name Mark Hoyle. Created in partnership with charity the Trussell Trust, which supports a network of food banks across the UK, the ad forms part of Walkers’ pledge to help LadBaby raise more money than ever before at Christmas for the charity – building on the £1 million support already pledged by the brand earlier in the year. Indeed, in a year like no other, the much-loved crisp brand has
opted for its first ever social-first festive ad campaign in a bid to spark an online conversation about the Trussell Trust and the work that they do. Walkers opted to throw its support behind the charity after new figures revealed that the need for UK food banks soared to record levels this year, with fears it could worsen in the lead up to Christmas following the start of a second national lockdown. During the first lockdown in March, demand soared by 89%, with the charity recording its busiest week on record, and food banks in the Trussell Trust’s network are now forecast to give
out one parcel every 9 seconds this winter. Shot with trademark Walkers humour, the commercial - titled ‘A Sausage CaRoll’ - features several festive tropes from past and present, including celebrity cameos from the likes of Aled Jones, East 17 star Tony Mortimer, Carol Smillie and long-standing face of Walkers, Gary Lineker. The ad – which is badged as a joint production from Walkers and the Trussell Trust - opens with LadBaby pulling into a festively decorated residential street in his red ‘Sausage Rolls Are Coming’ adorned transit van. The unlikely star is clad in a sausage roll emblazoned Santa suit, and sack packed with Walkers’ new sausage-roll-flavour crisps. The YouTuber then proceeds to tour the close, singing a sausage roll-inspired carol with a team of carol singers, all called Carol – including former Changing Rooms presenter Carol Smillie. The group are then joined by Welsh singer and festive favourite Aled Jones and his snowman, and LadBaby’s wife, Rox, clad in a green elf outfit. Next, LadBaby is joined by East 17 singer, Tony Mortimer – best known for the band’s much-loved 1994 Christmas no. 1 single, ‘Stay Another Day’. The singer, who is clad in the same outfit featured in the song’s iconic music video, enjoys a playful exchange with Hoyle about who’s had more Christmas number ones. The ad ends with an appearance from long-standing face of Walkers, Gary Lineker, clad in a ‘Bah Humbug’ adorned Christmas jumper. With trademark humour, as LadBaby exclaims that Christmas is for sharing, Gary exclaims “… well maybe not your crisps’, while stuffing as many of the newly launched flavour as he can up his jumper.
GIVE THE GIFT OF ADVENTURE WITH ESCAPE HUNT this XMAS
G
ive the gift of adventure this Christmas with Escape Hunt’s newlook gift cards and gift boxes for the festive season. Available to redeem at any of Escape Hunt’s 5 star escape room venues and on outdoor adventures, the gift cards are the perfect gift for those looking for postlockdown adventures. With a 12 month validity, Escape Hunt’s gift cards allow plenty of time for the recipient to decide when and which adventure they want to take. And, if purchased in a gift box, the gift card will be accompanied by a personalised message hidden in a puzzle to solve. The value of the gift cards and gift boxes is up to the purchaser and can suit any budget. Escape Hunt’s gift cards and gift boxes are available to purchase through https://escapehunt.giftpro.co.uk/
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ENTERTAINMENT
What’s Going On? Weblox and siobhan continue with their fire collaborations
D
onovan Webley also known as Weblox and record label owner to Webley Records has many astonishing accreditations to mention and yet still has the hunger of achieving even with many years of professional experience. His love for music started at age 17, he began to develop interests in creating beats and always had a feel and great rhythm
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in dancing. His nickname till this day has always been Michael Jackson. 25 years ago, a record with Rose Capri called ‘Passion’ was released and did very successfully on the Reggae charts. This was when Webley Records was created and started its footsteps in Jamaica and beyond. In 2016, Donovan built an in-house studio and released five singles between Bobby Woods, Tia Stuart and Peter Spence. He also released three songs with Ozzie Gad from the Naturalites which went on to do amazing. By this time, the name Webley was a household name in Jamaica. Last year (2019), Weblox released his first single in a while ‘Songbird’, featuring his daughter Siobhan, another extra-ordinary talented singer who is a rising star in the making with a history of X Factor and The Voice UK under her belt. Siobhan studied Performing Arts as a student, then went onto train as a professional
dancer featuring in multiple music videos. Siobhan was also one of the leading backing Dancers for Lethal Bizzle at the Mobo Awards 2015. With the success from ‘Songbird’, Weblox and Siobhan have teamed up again on this immense record ‘What’s Going On’, a Marvin Gaye original with Webloxs’ exceptional production skills with a Reggae sound. Siobhan describes ‘What’s Going On’ as a sign choice that seemed obvious for what the whole world is going through right now. Recording this song as a cover, “I wanted to try and put a little bit of myself into the song, to let people know it’s okay to go through tough times, but always look forward to tomorrow.” The song and its lyrics bring much joy in the crazy times we are facing. Weblox is an absolute genius when it comes to his music ear and feel for production, however, Siobhan literally has a voice than can only be described as nothing less than angelic. Siobhan also works closely alongside charities such as The Haven and the YMCA that help to support women fleeing from domestic abuse, homeless or are young and vulnerable. ‘What’s Going On’ is sure to propel Siobhan to new heights with her vocals, sexy looks and an ambition
to conquer anything and everything. Weblox and Siobhan are undoubtedly a duo to watch out for next year in 2021 with an EP that has been put on hold due to COVID-19, that is set to be released by next summer and will be available via www.webleyrecords.com Siobhan & Weblox have been in the studio day-in day-out preparing themselves for the biggest year of their lives, with performances, collaborations and a whole promotional campaign that’s set to change the reggae scene. A tour is also soon to follow. The single is going to be released and will be available only on the website. There is a competition to win a Christmas goodie bag from Siobhan. It has a signed t-shirt and edible goodies to lift a lucky fan up during Christmas. The competition will be to subscribe and purchase ‘WHAT’S GOING ON’ on webleyrecords website, follow Weblox and Siobhan on IG, tag them in a video of you singing the song and hashtag #SHIVWHATSGOINGON. Siobhan will be choosing the best and repost onto her IG page. Catch Siobhan at: Instragram: iamsiobhanofficialmusic Twitter: iamsiobhanoffic Catch Weblox at: Instagram: webloxjaofficial Facebook: https://bit.ly/3l72muA
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ENTERTAINMENT MOTORS
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THE JAGUAR CLASSIC CHALLENGE JOINS MOTOR RACING LEGENDS Peter Waite Optomestrist P.E.Waite & K.G.Miles Opticians Celebrating our Community Leaders this Christmas!
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M
otor Racing Legends is honoured to have been appointed by Jaguar Classic to run the Jaguar Classic Challenge for the 2021 season. Open to Pre-‘66 E-types, C and D-types, XKs and Mk 1 and Mk 2 saloons - the highly regarded series, founded by Jaguar Classic in 2015, is looking towards its seventh season with renewed vigour as it joins the Motor Racing Legends stable of historic race series. The 2021 season will feature UK races at Donington Historic Festival, Thruxton Historic, the new Motor Racing Legends endof-season soiree on Silverstone Grand Prix circuit; and into Europe for the Spa Six Hours Meeting in Belgium, the ‘must do’ event for the Autumn season. Further details and additions this calendar will be announced in the coming weeks. Motor Racing Legends is a natural home for racing Jaguars with many of our series already catering for the marque. The addition of the Jaguar Classic Challenge will now see nine historic race series on their books following the well-received announcement of the Amon Cup exclusively for Ford GT40s earlier this week. Owners of eligible Jaguar racing cars are requested to register with Motor Racing Legends through the Jaguar Classic Challenge page on www.motorracinglegends.com
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It’s All In A Name DVLA Personalised Registrations has ensured a large number of name-related personalised registrations are featured in its final online auction of 2020. And with Christmas on the horizon, the 10-day sale which commences on Wednesday, November 18 featuring 1,250 lots – more than a quarter of which reflect either a first or surname could well provide a solution to the annual dilemma of what to buy a loved one for the big day. From AH12 MED, which has a reserve of £400, BA11 RNY (£400) and D144 ANA (£250) which clearly correlate to Ahmed, Barney and Diana, through to DAN 141L (£250), E110 OTT (£250) and FO55 TER (£750) resembling Danial, Elliot and Foster. Popular names such as Lara, Lexie, and Meg are catered for with LAR 41A (£300), LEX 31E (£300) and 25 MEG (£1,200) meanwhile at the opposite end of the alphabet, the sale includes SAM 7P (£350), S133 ENA (£250) and SYE 33D, perfect for a Sam, Sienna or Sayeed.
BRINGING A NEW DEFINITION OF LUXURY
S
ince the market launch in 2015, around 60,000 examples of the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class have been delivered worldwide. In 2019, with around 12,000 units, more Mercedes-Maybach S-Class cars were sold than ever before. The growth rate in China was in double figures. Alongside China, the main sales markets in recent years have been Russia, South Korea, the USA and Germany. The new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class is set to continue this success story. It combines the perfection and high-tech solutions of the only recently presented Mercedes-Benz flagship model with the exclusivity and tradition of Maybach. The 18 cm longer wheelbase
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Garry Peal Events Team Birmingham City Council Celebrating our Community Leaders this Christmas!
compared to the long variant of the MercedesBenz S-Class entirely benefits the rear. In the USA and China, the first customers will receive their vehicles in April 2021. The first examples will reach dealer showrooms in Europe in summer 2021.
UK Police Forces Ready For Action
The all-new Octavia vRS is now available for blue-light fleets. ŠKODA’s performance model has been an integral part of the brand’s line-up since 2001 and the fourth-generation vRS is the latest in a longline of ŠKODA cars expertly converted for the emergency services. Equipped with a powerful 2.0-litre TSI engine that delivers 245PS to the front wheels via a seven-speed DSG
gearbox, the new ŠKODA Octavia vRS is capable of sprinting from 0-62mph in just 6.7 seconds. This performance ensures that police officers, particularly those operating in rapid response teams, can respond quickly and effectively to any incident. The bespoke conversion for the police service includes 360-degree visibility thanks to powerful LED signal lights built into the front screen,
grille, tailgate and number plate – all complemented by a three tone siren. The all-new Octavia vRS features a plethora of ŠKODA’s latest technology and connectivity systems. Ergonomics have been enhanced with selected onetouch keys for important vehicle functions and a 10-inch central display that features a touch control slider below the screen for ease of use.
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ENTERTAINMENT
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The Panto Must Go On!
B
i r m i n g h a m Hippodrome and Qdos Entertainment, producers of the city’s annual festive production, have announced that pantomime will be going ahead with an all-new production of ‘Robin Hood’ staged, for the first time in 20 years, at the nearby Alexandra. Starring the Strictly Come Dancing judge the nation loves to hate, the fab-u-lous Craig Revel Horwood as The Sheriff of Nottingham, alongside the Hippodrome’s pantomime superstar Matt Slack, the legendary pairing of Richard Cadell & Sooty and the Black Country’s funniest matriarch Doreen Tipton, Robin Hood will
play from 15 to 31 January 2021 for a Strictly limited run. The socially distanced, one-act production will temporarily change venues due to Birmingham Hippodrome’s hosting of the critically acclaimed Van Gogh Alive experience. The Christmas production is being staged as a result of an initiative between The National Lottery and Qdos Entertainment which is providing financial support for theatres to stage socially distanced, live pantomimes this festive season. Fresh from the ballroom, Craig will star as the villainous Sheriff of Nottingham and show Birmingham his real mettle as he tries to outwit Robin Hood and win the hand of the beautiful
Maid Marion. He will be joined by hilarious Hippodrome funny man, multiaward winning Matt Slack as Robin Hood; whose television credits include ‘Casualty’, ‘Doctors,’ ‘EastEnders’ ‘Law and Order’ and the feature film ‘The Rise of the Krays’. On stage he has appeared in ‘Boogie Nights’ and ‘Hot Flush’ on their UK tours, and in ‘Blood Brothers’ in London’s West End. Craig and Matt will be joined by television icons Richard Cadell as Will Scarlet, with his mischievous sidekick, Sooty and, as Mrs Tuck, will be Doreen Tipton, back for her second consecutive Hippodrome pantomime, following her star turn in ‘Snow White and the
Seven Dwarfs’ last year. In her own inimitable style, the Black Country star will showcase her dry wit, penchant for doing as little as possible and helping Robin and his Merry Men as they rob from the rich and give to the poor. And joining them will be hilarious pantomime dame and Hippodrome regular Andrew Ryan and West End musical leading ladies Landi Oshinowo, Nicola Meehan and Lauren Chia. Artistic Director and Chief Executive of Birmingham Hippodrome, Fiona Allan and Managing Director of Qdos Entertainment Michael Harrison, who has directed the Hippodrome pantomime for the past 10 years, said: “We’re delighted
to be working together to make sure that our loyal audiences in Birmingham don’t miss out on the magic of pantomime this year. “Presenting Robin Hood at The Alexandra allows us to see two of the city’s key cultural institutions open with social distancing in place. “Although on a different stage, this year’s show will be designed and created by the usual Hippodrome panto creative team, and will feature all the comedy and laughter our audiences have come to expect”. This new production will be packed full of comedy routines, audience-safe participation and all the unmissable magic that Hippodrome audiences know
and love from their annual festive pantomime in their temporary theatrical home at The Alexandra for this year only. Lisa Mart, Theatre Director at The Alexandra added: “Words can’t quite express how thrilled we are to be working with Qdos Entertainment and our friends at Birmingham Hippodrome to bring this much loved annual tradition back to the city this festive season! “This cross-venue collaboration is one of many examples of cultural organisations working together to provide audiences with entertainment during what has been a challenging time for the sector.”
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THE GREEN LIGHT IS ON FOR 2021
I
was determined this month that my article goes with a bang and is as vibrant as a flashing firework that will be going off up and down the country. For it is that time of the year, when everybody can get together and celebrate Guy Fawkes Night on the 5th November. But unfortunately this year things will go not so much as a bang but more of a fizz because of the Covid-19 Global Pandemic. So this year’s celebrations will have to be on hold until we can all have a World Party Day when (Cirus The Virus as I call it ) has been beaten and lockdowns as we know it, are no more. We will get through this together if we all remain positive, because these words are so important in our lives today. Which reminds me of an old African proverb I once heard. ‘If You Want To Go Fast - Go Alone’ / ‘If You Want To Go Far - Go Together’ Positivity is having a strong belief and confidence in someone or something. This positive mindset is what helps us get through the tough days and the major obstacles we all experience in life. So if you are facing any issues and you are feeling helpless and lost because
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of problems, just really concentrate believing there is a solution to be found if you look hard enough. Most importantly talk with others who can offer support, help and guidance to you. Talk, talk, talk, and have a Never Give Up and have a Never Say Can’t attitude in life. My life as a world strength athlete and
my knowledge of health & well-being and nutrition is something I am able to pass on but what makes me who I am and my ability in achieving what I have done throughout my career, is my mindstrength and ability to manage the mindmonkeys. As I have said so many times and I will keep on saying it, ‘Your Mind / My Mind Is The Highest Level Of Strength’. As Walt Disney is renowned for saying ‘If You Can Think It, You Can Do It’ Positive thinking can help in so many ways, especially when all doors are shut, just keep thinking those words ‘The mind is the highest level of strength, your mind is the highest level of strength’. As hard and as difficult as it is now in this negative climate do not let the mindmonkeys take over, in your mind say to yourself the following: • Never say can’t, say I can do • Things may be bad now but will only get better. • I will not let the mind-monkeys beat me. • I am strong and not weak • I can get through this dilemma • I need to stay positive and not have negative thoughts • I must go to war on myself and not on others • I am stronger than I think • I will never give up The one mantra that helps me so much is ‘‘Whatever the mind of man can conceive, he can achieve” in other words if it’s Thinkable it is Doable. You have to have an unshakeable belief in yourself, because if you don’t believe in yourself, how can you expect other people to believe in you. Because if you believe in yourself you can achieve great things and positive outcomes are within your grasp. Spread the Love and Stay Safe.
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Mind, Body & Soul
T
he word Angel comes from the Greek word Angelos meaning ‘messenger’. To study angels is called Angelology. Angels are here to guide, protect and inspire us throughout our daily lives and our entire time on Earth. They give us a deep sense of peace and love. It would seem that every religion believes in the existence of Angels and Archangels. Angels have always been depicted throughout time as celestial beings with wings , they do not always appear as large, winged Messengers, but as pure white light, brightly Coloured lights or it has been said that they have appeared in ‘human’ form whilst helping someone in need and then just mysteriously’ disappearing’ into thin air. There are many people who have encountered or had an experience with an Angel and I don’t just mean spiritual people! Angels have no desire to frighten us, they come with pure love and a desire
to expand our consciousness. There are many, many angels and they all have different roles to play. They are just waiting to be invited into our lives to help us. Archangel Michael is probably the most well known Archangel. He protects us physically, emotionally and psychically. You can call upon Archangel Michael at anytime to protect you in any situation that you feel uncomfortable or threatened and he will be there for you . Angels are not allowed to interfere in our lives, we have to ask them. For instance, when you are out and about in the car and you need a parking space, ask the Parking Angels to find you a parking space and it will be done. I do it all the time and they’ve never let me down, - try it the next time you need a parking space. Have you ever found a feather in an unusual place? Feathers are Angels calling cards. It is their way of showing us they are around and watching over us. So next time you find a feather , keep it safe and be sure that the angels are looking after you. Before you go to sleep ask your angels to surround you, your home and your loved ones with their loving protection. Visualise your Angels protecting your children going off to school. When you’re out travelling always ask the angels to surround and protect you and your family on the journey. Angels are ALWAYS by your side . So next time you feel vulnerable, need a parking space or just in need of some calm in your life - call upon your Angels and experience their pure love and devotion.
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ENTERTAINMENT
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A musical tribute to members of the Black and Asian communities who are more likely to die from Covid-19
Celebrating our Community Leaders this Christmas!
A
s lockdowns returned and Europe confronted the second wave of Covid-19, some of Birmingham's biggest and most respected artists got together to release a music track which raises awareness of the disproportionate impact of the Covid-19 on Black and Asian communities. The ‘Hidden Hands’ track
features a number of leading singers and stellar musicians; from Grammy-award winning Selwyn Brown (Steel Pulse), to chart-topping Errol Reed (China Black), and one of the most prominent Bhangra vocalists in the UK, Shin (DCS), to young up-and-coming Janel Antoneshia. Conceived and directed by Mukhtar Dar on behalf of the Simmer Down Festival, Hidden
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Hands is part of a music project funded by the Arts Council England, Emergency Fund. He said: “This project came out of a traumatic set of personal circumstances which have been echoed by many others in our communities. Within a week of the UK national lock-down, my father lost his sight and his hearing; he couldn’t walk and was rushed into hospital. We couldn’t visit him, he couldn’t call us and we lost all contact with him. At the same time, my sister in-law’s father died in the back of an ambulance, she is a doctor and her father was a doctor – he died from Covid-19.” Steel Pulse’s Selwyn said: “During the lock-down my family members put their own personal safety at risk, working in challenging circumstances to support all of us and so for me this was an opportunity to highlight their sacrifice and say thank you to all the key workers and to the NHS frontline staff” Councillor Paulette Hamilton, who is part of The West Midlands Enquiry into COVID-19 Fatalities in the Black and Asian Community said: “It speaks truthfully to power without compromise and has the potential to reach people that we as politicians can’t.” Hidden Hands’ was officially released on November 13 for download.
Phoenix Point: Year 1 Edition Comes To PC Phoenix Point, the turn-based strategy game from X-COM creator Julian Gollop and Snapshot Games, announced that the upcoming “Year One Edition”, which collects the game with all previously released DLC and digital extras, is set for release for Windows PC and Mac - one week earlier from its previously announced. Phoenix Point: Year One Edition is available from most PC digital retailers, including Steam and the Epic Game Store. Snapshot Games Head of Marketing, Eric Neigher said: “We know a lot of fans were eagerly waiting for Year One Edition since we announced it earlier this year, and that’s why we’re extremely pleased to be able to bring it to them a week
earlier than planned.” Phoenix Point: Year One Edition includes all previously released content: 3 DLC Packs (“Blood & Titanium”, “Legacy of the Ancients”, and the “Living Weapons Pack”) and a slew of updates, upgrades, fixes and new content suggested by the community. “Year One Edition is the best, most complete version of Phoenix Point yet released, and we’re excited for players to dive into new campaigns with new challenges,” said Julian Gollop, CEO of Snapshot Games and Lead Designer for Phoenix Point. “The team has worked extremely hard to get Year One Edition ready to go, and we know players are going to appreciate that hard work when they play the game.”
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