Issue 1 - Winter 2011

South Wales’ creative and lifestyle magazine

Issue 1 Winter 2011

Don’t call it a comeback

REAPER IN SICILY Plus

kids in glass houses photography romesh dodangoda the guns movember exit international santa macabre

pritchard vs. dainton Dirty Sanchez favourites up to their old tricks!

Miwili jewellery Photos and interview with award winning designer

1 www.synecticmag.co.uk

from the editor

kevin barnes Well hello. It’s here! And you’re here too. After months of planning, discussions, ideas, blood, sweat…. (yada yada), what started as a casual conversation has come to fruition. Yes, Synectic Magazine is here!

www.synecticmag.co.uk

Our main aim is to bring the plentiful creatives of South Wales (and eventually, further afield) together in one place, providing a definitive quarterly guide of the best bits. Whilst we acknowledge we still have a long way to go, I’m very proud of the efforts of the team who have made this issue possible, and I look forward to working with them to make it bigger and better every time we release.

kev@synecticmag.co.uk

In these pages this quarter you will find a brilliant, frank interview with Reaper In Sicily – a recommended read. We’ve also done our best to squeeze some fashion content, and we hope you’ll enjoy reading about MiWiLi Jewellery, as well as local jeweller Santa Macabre. Music wise we’re bursting at the seams with reviews of Kids In Glass Houses, The Guns, Exit International and many more. We’ve also thrown in those cheeky lads from Dirty Sanchez for good measure!

I’m delighted to introduce you to some brilliant local photographers, models, and especially contributors (even the writing itself is a showcase of somebody talented and local). We’re also incredibly humbled to have the wisdom of experience Josephine Jones and Charis Talbot-Jones providing you with some great insights in their columns.

And importantly, in a matter which I know is close to many of your hearts, we are supporting Movember this quarter – a great appeal, reminding men of the importance of their health. Please join us if you wish to take part, we’d love to have you! It’s important to us, as a publication to acknowledge and support charity wherever possible, and Movember is just the start.

I’m delighted with the content we’ve assembled through creating this issue. I truly hope you enjoy reading and sharing this as much as we all enjoyed putting it together.

Thank you for taking the time to read, we’ll see you again in January.

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Editor-in-Chief

Kevin Barnes Style Editor

VICKI ROACH

vicki@synecticmag.co.uk Press Richard Meyrick, Kevin Barnes, Vicki Roach press@synecticmag.co.uk Journalists Laura Kenny, Natalie Lam, Richard Meyrick, Martin Izzard, Phoebe Gorman, Vicki Roach, Kevin Barnes, Jessica Brown, Emma Hathway, Andrew Roach Photographers Kevin Barnes, Vicki Roach, Jessica Brown, Phoebe Gorman, Emma Hathway, Craig Thomas Columnists Josephine Jones, Charis Talbot-Jones Sales & advertising Sally King sally@synecticmag.co.uk

SOCIAL NETWORKING

synectic magazine

@synecticmag

Contents ISSUE 1 - winter 2011

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GALLERY

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A selection of images from Cardiff Big Weekend, Swn Festival and some local creatives

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COLUMN: charis talbot-jones

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column: josephine jones

Our resident photographer talks about inspiration and shares her summer’s work Self proclaimed model agony aunt gives you some basic pointers on getting involed with modelling

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Movember newcomers: boy set sail REAPER IN SICILY

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PRITCHARD VS. DAINTON

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miwili jewellery craig thomas romesh dodangoda intensive square lady noctis charity fashion show ryan bater santa macabre reviews: live

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26 28 29 30 32 34 37 38

Aberdare’s own tell all about struggles with cancer and future plans as they continue to grow as a band The Valleys’ favourite dare devils talk about their experiences and future plans

Live reports of Kids In Glass Houses and Boy Set Sail

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goatstock reviews: releases

Latest releases reviewed from Kids In Glass Hosues, The Guns, Exit International along with singles and demos

listings

Listings of upcoming local events, gigs and clubnights November through January

the green rooms 3

Gallery

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Cardiff Big Weekend CARDIFF CIVIC CENTRE | 5-7 AUG 2011

The Admiral Big Weekend invaded Cardiff Civic Centre again this summer.

Amongst the fairground and fireworks there was an strong line-up across three days of music.

Swn stepped into the fray on the Friday night, bringing giants Funeral for a Friend to the stage, along with support from Attack Attack, OK and Death Before Sunrise.

Saturday saw the MAS Carnival line-up feature such eclectic artists as Gabrielle, Vintage Trouble, Hayley Scarlett and Hypnotic Brass Ensemble.

The Feeling provided the headline punch to the festival on the Sunday night, their set culminating in a third firework display of the weekend. Local ‘Big Gig’ winner Ffred Jones had the privilege of opening the stage in the early afternoon. Along with the main act, Nerina Pallot and Friends Electric also graced Sunday’s stage.

Photographer Craig Thomas has been kind enough to share some of his work from the weekend with us. Check out his blog at http://oppositeimages. wordpress.com for more photos.

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Swn Festival Gallery

CARDIFF | 20-23 oct 2011

Swn Festival graced Cardiff City Centre for the latest installment of South Wales’ premier music festival.

In its fifth year, the festival offered as diverse a range of local and national acts as ever before. Including The Joy Formidable, The xcerts, Sam Duckworth (best known as Get Cape. Wear Cape.

Fly), Caves, Town, Veronica Falls Cuba Cuba, Dirty Goods and Tiger Please.

That’s just a brief selection of the 150+ acts on offer in 14 venues throughout the city. From large venues within Cardiff Students’ Union, to the tiny confines of Spillers Records.

With the festival growing year-on-year, and Swn gaining more recognition for their work in local music (including the inaugrual Welsh Music Prize), we look forward to seeing what this festival holds in store in future.

Here we include a very brief selection of photos by Synectic’s style editor and resident photographer, Vicki Roach.

Check www.swnfest.co.uk for highlights of the event.

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Gallery

Local Creatives Photo: James Graham Model, Make-Up & Hair: Katra Knight

There’s a lot of talented creatives in South Wales. We like to help them share this with the rest of the region.

This is just a brief collection of some of our favourite work produced recently. We will be bringing you more in issue 2.

If you’d like to be considered for this section, please contact kev@ synecticmag.co.uk with a link to the work you’d like featured.

We’re keen to see photography, modelling, artwork and inkwork across any genre.

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Photo: Vicki Roach Model: Olivia Rose O’Brien Make-Up: Kayleigh Oliver

Photo: Ceri Vale Model & Make-Up: Kitty Smith

Photo: Srephanie Rose Model & Hair: Liam Fitzgerald

this Could be the start of something beautfiul...

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Charis Talbot-Jones

COLUMN

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My name is Charis TalbotJones, I am a somewhat complex creative type. I am both a painter and a photographer with a passion for social history and a thirst for knowledge. Most of my time is spent in front of a computer editing my own photos as well as editing for others. I was a model for four years before I decided to eat pies and enjoy lie ins. I am a fully qualified Art & Design teacher with a background in camera retail. I was born in West Germany and moved to Wales when I was six. The most important thing you need to know about me is that I am a geek and very proud!

“

My photos from this summer were based around one ideal and desire: to somehow illustrate our idealist memories of favourite summers- that sweetheart from summer camp, that party when you thought you’d all the friends for ever or that time you fell in love and didn’t get home to till after your curfew but you didn’t care.

”

Notes from a photographic scatterbrain Initially when asked to write a column about photography I immediately imagined drafting long laborious essays on camera use, best models, tricks and photoshop. But before I do that I want to simply write about the one thing that unites us in the field of photography and the one thing we cannot develop our skills without. Creativity When I first started my PGCE we had a lecturer come to chat with us about promoting creativity in our pupils. My first thought was “pssff as if I need help with that” but as it turns out we all do.

Like writers block creativity block is a horrible deterrent from our quest to achieve results. My main source of creative block is not knowing how to get the results I so crave. I’ll pore over beautiful images by famous photographers, some several years younger than me then berate myself for not being able to do the same. But there is hope and there is a way you can support yourself when you have these moments. My failsafe is simply this: the greatest artists didn’t produce their masterpieces until they were at least in their forties. The amazing images produced by these teens and young go-getters... are they really timeless classics? The main factor in a master piece is that it transcends decades. Think of David Bailey’s images of Twiggy? Fashion revolutions and world changing events later and it is still being reproduced on large canvases for us to put up in our houses.

My own creative thought process generally starts from a colour or a word. I developed it using music as an inspiration. During my Fine Art degree I used to pick the titles of my bodies of work by picking a song title at random. Some artists I know use their raw emotions, find muses or even take drugs to get to their ether so they can find what it is they’re looking for (I don’t condone that).

To understand what it is that fundamentally rules your creative side you have to go a little deeper. I started painting portraits to achieve perfection and reflect beauty in paint such as I didn’t see in myself. I started photography because I wanted my work to make people ask questions about each piece and have their own interpretations of my ideals of perfection.

When I got a job managing a camera shop my technical knowledge came back slowly, ebbing out of the depths of my mind from when I worked in a camera shop during university. Restoring photographs and seeing the curious quality of ‘professional’ photographers whose work I printed I finally got it together, rang the darlings at Pentax and got my camera. Suddenly I was reborn again. The Charis that wowed people with her energy and creativity came back. But worse than ever in my life I burn out.

My need for perfection thwarts me and then every now and again it’s the blurry badly lit picture that works. It somehow looks damn good... what is this sorcery? I tweak in Photoshop and it looks genius, perfect etc. Of course that is until you find a thread on Facebook attacking you and your work. The trick with this is not to get too bothered unless the people questioning your ability and product are (in your opinion) ‘better’ than you. Are they creative?

Do they put in hours of pixel by pixel corrections? No pssf, don’t listen to them then. Stick on the music, read a novel, watch a film and find that thing inside of you that makes you take photos.

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Josephine Jones

COLUMN

12 Photo: Ryan Bater

Photo: Rich Swash

Photos; Top: Nigel Painter, Bottom: Ryan Bater

Photo: Steve Layton

My name is Josephine Jones.

With a degree in Fine Art and a keen interest in modelling, fashion and MUA (makeup artist) work, I am here to help provide advice and tips to any new aspiring models, while also dropping hints to anyone who is keen to keep up with all the latest trends.

I welcome you to send in any questions or concerns you have about working within the photographic model community. Think of me your own personal agony aunt for all your modelling and makeup needs. Whether you want advice on how to handle yourself as a model or if you just want a few pointers on what makeup shades will work best on you, I’m happy to help.

“

”

columns@synecticmag.co.uk

Ask around, find people who work as models/photographers and see if you can attend a local “meet and greet” event. There you can meet creative individuals in a safe environment and chat with them to gain advice, information and hopefully book your first modelling shoot. If you plan to send images to agencies, I would recommend that you do a couple of shoots locally to gain some experience. Then pay for a good portfolio shoot from someone with a very good standard of work and a glowing portfolio. These shots will provide you with a better platform when applying to agencies and will show you off in the best light.

When working as a model you should always remain safe.

Check out people and agencies before meeting/working with new people. Read up on whom you are about to work with and check references/feedback left by others who have worked with them. If need be send an email to a few of the models who have worked with this person and ask them directly.

The best way to learn poses and expressions is to look through magazines and practice them in your mirror at home. It sounds a bit silly and rather vain but trust me; it will show in your performance during your photo shoot if you have no idea what you are doing. It is always better to arrive over-prepared than completely clueless. You will gain more respect from those working with you and will likely be recommended highly to others leading to more model work for you to build your portfolio.

Photos; Left: Scott Chalmers, Right: Alex Mills

We will be putting your questions to our columnists in future issues. If you have any questions about photography, modelling, make-up or music you can get in touch via e-mail:

As this is the first issue, I shall start with the basics: “How do I get into modelling?” Not an easy question to answer directly, as there are many ways in which to start a path towards becoming a model. The path I would recommend is how a lot of internet models get started.

Always tell someone you trust where you are going and provide them with a contact number and address for the person you will be working with, so they can check up on you if need be. Most people in this creative community are lovely and great fun to work with. But as always in life there are a few snakes in the grass you may want to avoid. Your safety must be your number 1 priority.

Working as both a model and MUA within the photographic community gives me a great deal of perspective on the world of “internet modelling”. I have featured some of my own model work to provide you with a general idea of the kind of image I have produced with a selective group of talented creative minds.

Pardon me?

How do I get into modelling?

Don’t spam people. We all start somewhere and it is tough getting your name out there. Spending every waking moment online bugging people to look at your work or “vote for you” will annoy more people than it impresses. It’s far better to chat with people and build a relationship with creatives you want to work with. Ask for tips if they are happy to give you any. This way you remain on their mind and in time it may secure you the shoot you were looking for.

Once you have done a few photo shoots with various photographers, I would advise you join a model-networking site like ModelMayhem, net-model or Purestorm. These sites provide you with a platform to meet and work with more people in your local area. They also provide feedback features on profiles so it’s a great way to follow up on what people are like to work with.

Spend time reading some of the things that go on in forums on these sites but if you can, avoid getting involved in the discussions until you know more about what you are doing.

There is always information available online if you look for it.

Unfortunately I cannot squeeze everything you need to know into this column, so stay tuned for a few more tips next issue!

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charity

It’s that time of year again. Where men the world over grow moustaches and collect money in aid of Movember. The craze began in 2003 with just 30 registrants, and has since snowballed to have almost 450,000 last year, raising a whopping £48.5m (worldwide). To celebrate the month of Movember, Synectic Magazine (namely our editor, Kevin Barnes) will be taking part in this fundraising initiative. For 30 long days, he has agreed to donate his face to be a symbol of fundraising and gratuitous abuse everywhere he goes!

If we had you at the mention of “moustache,” then you can find the donation details at the bottom of the page. If you still need some convincing, then read on.

Movember raises awareness of men’s health, primarily prostate and testicular cancer. Money raised is donated to The Prostate Cancer Charity and the Institute of Cancer Research. Through this, they encourage the development of innovative programs relating to education, survivorship and research.

In the UK alone, there were 112,000 registrants last year, raising £11.7 million between them (that’s over £100 per registrant!). Help us here at Synectic to both raise awareness and raise funds to help educate, treat and prevent this terrible disease. We don’t want to let the team down, and we’re committed to raising as much as possible to help this cause.

We will be featuring our progress and the efforts made by all involved with our team in our next issue. We’re also currently attempting to arrange a gig/party at the end of the month to celebrate our achievements and boost our fundraising, please keep an eye on our Facebook page for updates.

DONATE

JOIN US

We appreciate times are hard, so we thank you in advance if you’re even considering making a donation.

If you wish to make a donation to Kevin, or to the Synectic team in general, please visit the link below where you are able to do so.

We want as many of you as possible getting involved. If you’re raring to grow, then visit the link and click the ‘Join My Team’ option, we’d love to have you. We will feature our entire team in the next issue of the mag, with before and after photos as proof of their growth. If you’re not quite sure, please consider the difference you could be helping make to family, friends, or yourself if the worst should happen. We’d love to have you onboard.

http://www.movember.com/m/1385334

Unfortunately, we are unable to accept cash donations – but can take donations through Paypal if you wish.

Please use the address paypal@synecticmag.co.uk and include a message stating that it’s for the Movember appeal.

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http://www.movember.com/m/1385334

NEWCOMERS

BOY SET SAIL

Interview: Kevin Barnes

So tell us, how did Boy Set Sail come about?

Tell us about your plans for the band over the next 12 months.

Boy Set Sail are the remaining 4 members from previous band Take The Floor.

We’re shooting a new video in January for our single. We’re about to announce a UK tour for December to promote the ‘We’re Almost There’ EP we’ve just released (reviewed on page 42 of this very issue!) so that should be sick. And then, I believe we’re going to write and record an album which will be amazing.

What sort of music do you guys make?

We make pop rock music, you may call it pop punk, that sort of genre.

Tell us a bit about yourselves.

We formed in Newport University in 2007 under a different name, so we’ve been going for about 4 years. One member left back in 2010 so Gareth started singing and here we are.

A few of you have been dotted around various bands for the past 5 years or so in South Wales - what drives you to keep going with a new band?

New directions are what keeps us going mainly and trying to write songs that are better than the songs from previous bands we’ve been in. It’s all about writing songs that you enjoy playing, because thats the main part of being in a band.

Everything else is a bonus, because we know people are digging the music too.

I think just habit of being in a band a love of writing music and performing.

What was it like recording the first EP together?

The EP process was sweet. We’ve never had a product really, so we really worked hard on it and worked on the songs for about 2 months before laying them down in the studio. Recording was awesome ‘cause we recorded with our good friend Jon Maguire, so it was relaxed, and I think that helps to get better takes and what not.

What bands did you look up to and feel inspired by when starting this band?

We’ve all got different tastes. Gareth writes all of the songs initially and is influenced by artists such as The Rocket Summer, Four Year Strong, This Providence to name a few. As a band we all love bands like Four Year Strong, Emarosa, You Me At Six, Francesqa, yeah loads ha.

How do you feel about the current music scene in South Wales?

I think its died down a bit in the past few years. Big local venues such as Barfly and TJ’s have closed so i think thats had an impact. Obviously theres still loads of quality bands dotted about, but as a whole theres not as many local gigs to go to.

Are you happy with the outcome of the EP?

What impact do you hope to make on the local and wider music scene as a band?

Super stoked. It’s a bit weird with it being released now cause its been done for about 5 months, and the release date was pushed back loads but yeah we are happy, just hope everyone likes it too.

We just want people to like us and to come see us, simple. If people like us that’s the main thing that’ll inspire us to write more songs and keep the dream alive.

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reaper in 16

When you win a national competition, and are thrust into a recording studio, in front of a camera to record a music video - it’s easy to be overwhelmed. Add to that one of your members being diagnosed with leukemia, just as you’re touring with Fightstar, and things can be pretty traumatic.

Merthyr-based fivesome Reaper in Sicily have already had quite a journey. Now, with the leukemia successfully treated, a massive comeback at the Leeds & Reading Festival in 2010, an EP under your belt and another one on the way at the start of November, things are just getting started for Reaper, and Synectic hopped along to chat with frontman Rhys Bernardo, to find out exactly where the band came from, and where they’re going...

Words: Richard Meyrick, Photos: Abigail Lewis How and why did your form Reaper In Sicily?

We formed because all our other younger bands had split up and we wanted to do something different. So me and Johnny stuck it together, then we got Tom on drums and Mike on bass. We recorded our first two songs, but we realised we needed a second guitarist, so we got Matt in, and then we did another two songs to add to our four track EP. From that then things started to take off.

What did you set out to achieve when you started Reaper In Sicily?

I don’t know, we were eighteen when we kinda started doing all this stuff. We’ve all dreamt of making it big, but this band was more like a hobby and something to do in our spare time. But it turned out to be the complete opposite. We just loved it and loved the music we were playing. We never dreamed of doing anything with Kerrang! or stuff like that.

I always wanted to be a big local band like Midasuno, Dopamine, SaidMike, and The Blackout when they were coming through. Bands like that I looked up to.

I wanted to do that and headline some shows and be the centre of attention really [laughs]. I think we’ve done alright, but at the same time we have a lot more to offer.

What was it like being part of the Kerrang! competition? You played with Fightstar

n sicily

at the end of it all, bet that was fun!

It was all a bit mental to be honest, it happened way too quick! I think if it happened now we’d be able to make a lot more out of it. I mean our fourth ever show was the final! To be fair we played a blinder, probably the best we’ve played to this day. What we did after that then we could’ve exploited it more, instead of letting management run everything. We could’ve stood up more and controlled ourselves, but that’s part of the learning curve. Overall as an experience it was amazing; it’s like the things you dream about!

So after winning the Kerrang! competition you went on to make your first music video, in the place where you had your first gig, what was it like making a professional music video?

Again, it was being so clueless and not knowing what we wanted and everyone was like, “you’ve gotta do this, gotta do that, your make-up artist has to do this”.

How much input did you have then?

Not a lot. You just get told what to do. That’s why we wish we were more forceful and said “we want to do this.”

But because we were young as well, people thought “we’ll direct them, tell them whats best.” It was great doing it in our hometown, and that was probably the biggest say we got in it. Other than that we didn’t get much say in it. We

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didn’t even get much say in what the single was gonna be! We had other songs we wanted to record, but because they heard ‘We Are The Show’ they wanted that one.

‘We Are The Show’ pretty much won the judges over at the Kerrang! competition didn’t it?

Yeah pretty much, we opened with ‘We Are The Show’ and I think that swung it.

I think your first song is always your first impression. When you walk out onstage you’ve got to take the room, and if you don’t take the room with your first song things can start off slow. But we still open with that song and I still love playing it live.

Would you ever consider re-recording it for a future release? I know you weren’t entirely happy with the recording.

I’d love to re-record it to give it the justice it deserves. But that’s not taking anything away from the producers, it was because we were young and we took too long doing drums, time got on top of us.

In the end everything was a bit rushed.

The label wanted us to do four songs in three days, which can be hard work when you’ve got pressure on you. I find if you put pressure on yourself it runs smoothly, but when the big boys are on top of you it’s a lot more daunting. I would like to re-record it, but the new stuff is a step beyond now.

diagnosed with leukemia, which set you back quite a bit. You did a lot of charity work after that, could you tell us a bit more about that?

‘We Are The Show’ was released on March 8th, we went on tour that day with Fightstar. Then by March 16th he was diagnosed with leukemia. So that was like a kick in the teeth big time for us, ‘cause that was our first ever tour and we had to cancel a lot of shows. But Matthew being like a brother, not even a friend or band mate, you didn’t wanna be playing music then especially not without him. We just got our heads down writing some new stuff and standing outside Argos with buckets, just everything you could do.

There’s like this weight on you that makes you feel like you have to do something to help. The TCT is a wonderful thing and Matt was well looked after, and he was out by six or seven months.

You sort of came back at the Reading and Leeds Festival then didn’t you?

Yeah, that wasn’t going to be the

deserved it almost.

Most recently you released your five track EP ‘Eden,’ which brought you back to the forefront almost.

Yeah, we did the comeback shows, and we were actually recording ‘Eden’ when Matt was in hospital, but we released it beginning of this year. We were really happy with that, it was more of our ‘poppy’ side, I think everyone that’s heard that would agree, we had quite a lot of interest off that too. We met with a couple of major labels, which we were really happy about, but nothing really came of it. At the time we think it was the live performance side of it that was holding us back. The fact that we hadn’t gigged enough, because we were only playing three shows a month before Matt was diagnosed. Then when we came back with the CD we hadn’t really done anything gig wise, so things had happened so quickly. We were really proud of that CD and production wise Rory Meredith did an awesome job with it, that’s something that I want to show

What sort of direction have you taken with the new material?

I think it’s a little bit heavier and more grown up. In the sense that the lyrics used to be tongue in cheek and now they’re about real life things. Not just about girls [laughs]. But it’s just showing that we are growing up and it’s where we wanna be now, and if things don’t happen now then the only people to blame our ourselves. That’s a good position to be in because you can turn around and say “I wish I did that differently”. I don’t know how to describe the style we’re fitting into at the minute, because I think it’s still power-pop but it’s more edgy to what we’ve done before, and having the boys singing more has given it that extra punch.

So if we can take it back a bit, after you released ‘We Are The Show,’ Matt was

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comeback, but when you get that offer it’s very hard to refuse. We were due on a couple of festivals but we said to Alex [manager] “we don’t wanna know about it, everything has to be cancelled” and that’s the way it was. But then one email came through to the band, not even through management, asking us to play Reading and Leeds. We were hesitant to do it but Matt was like “yeah we gotta do it!” Matt was in remission at the time.

But it was a great experience, especially after the year we’d had. We thought we

my kids when I grow up.

You’ve recently had some pretty good support slots with bands like The Subways and Not Advised, how was it sharing a stage with bands like that?

Brilliant experiences. That’s what we’re begging for as a band, just one tour with a big established band; it’s everyone who’s in a band’s dream. That’s what all bands want. Now with the live set being as strong as it’s ever been and the

new songs better we feel like we can go somewhere with this. Getting these support slots is a massive step in the right direction. Just to tour for seven days would be amazing!

After you toured with You Ate My Dog you made your own music video for your newest track ‘Worlds End.’ Yeah we did a our own video for ‘Worlds End’ off no budget at all. We had a budget at the start of the summer for a video for ‘Save The Cheerleader’ but we decided to buy a camera [laughs]. We were really happy with how the video turned out, with the torch and loads of graffiti, it was cool!

It was really well done considering you did it all yourself.

To be honest Matthew did it and he shocked me as well [laughs]. I was like “that’s pretty good Matt fair play... don’t want your head to get big love but it’s alright” [laughs]. Just trying to get him to do another one now, but he’s like “I haven’t got any ideas.” That goes to show though that you don’t need to throw money and everything, I think that’s the mistake we’ve made in the past. With time and effort you can do anything and do it yourselves. The same goes for touring, if you had the money it’d be easy enough to buy onto the tour, but you’re not earning that tour then, you’ve got to earn it. Music’s a funny business.

What do you make of the Welsh music scene currently? In the past it was rampant, but now it seems to have died down don’t you think?

In a sense it’s died down but I still think it’s a fantastic scene. The bands are different to what they used to be. You have bands like Straight Lines, who are one of my personal favourites, Tiger Please, and he’s like a poet when he sings and you could listen to him all day. And even bands like Caesars Rome, they’ve got that different edge to them. I don’t know what it is about the Welsh music scene but it always seems to attract me more than any other scene.

It’s quite alternative isn’t it?

Yeah, and then you can go to the roots and bands are so passionate about what they’re doing. We get so many emails

asking “Can we do this gig with you?” and that’s awesome, that’s really good to see.

It’s also very hard as you have so many people asking you it’s hard to share them out, and we ourselves are trying to get on bigger shows. So we do know where they’re coming from because we’re trying to do it ourselves. They’ve just got to keep going and keep trying. Wales will always have a fantastic music scene.

Rolling on from the music scene, you are doing your own shows with Reaper Productions aren’t you?

Yeah it’s kind of like a time passer really.

We’re sitting back with the band and not pushing it too hard before we go off and play our own shows or tour. So it’s nice to help bands out that need the shows that we wouldn’t be able to give otherwise. It also helps the scene a bit too; it shows that we’re giving back. I mean our fan page has like 2,400 fans, I can’t see why our fans wouldn’t like some of these other bands. So we’re trying to open people’s eyes to the Welsh music scene a bit more. We’re promoting them, through us, it’s like giving something back because everyone has been so supportive of us. I was promoting shows when I was 14/15 and I stopped when Reaper came about, so it’s nice to get back into it after so many years. With Matt’s help too, because he’s a really enthusiastic person, it’s really helpful. We can push something together.

You played Merthyr Rock most recently, that was more like a homecoming festival for you. How was it playing in front of so many familiar faces?

Absolutely brilliant!

What an achievement for Merthyr in general, what a great experience! Just to see everyone from the scene was brilliant, you had The Blackout mingling with the crowd, you had Funeral For A Friend mingling in. It was like being back in RM’s and The Studio Bar! Fingers crossed that we can have that again next year, I don’t care if we play it... well I do care, but I want the festival there again. It was an amazing weekend, not only playing it but just going to it and seeing some of your favourite bands playing in a field in Merthyr [laughs]. The people at the Hay Festival, who organised it, know what they’re doing.

What are the future plans for Reaper In Sicily?

Get this EP out which we literally finished yesterday, so everyone’s a bit tired and over practised. We look forward to see what sort of reaction we get from it, we’re really excited about playing it live!

We have the launch on November 3rd at The Globe in Cardiff, that’ll be a really big show for us as we’re trying to pack it out with as many A&R and PR guys as possible.

It’s also a good chance for the other guys on the bill too. Hopefully Kerrang will be down to do a review as well, but our main aim now is to get support slots on some tours, and if we don’t get that we’ll go back up to Scotland ourselves and even go on a 10 day tour before the year is out. We are trying to get this agent in, but like I said earlier not to let him do all the work, but he’d help us out an awful lot. That’s what’s next for us really!

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PRITCHARD VS. DAINTON Founders, and stars of Dirty Sanchez; Matthew Pritchard and Lee Dainton have taken their unique brand of daredevil, stomach churning stunts on the road in Prithcard vs. Dainton. Throughout 2011, Wales’ top wince-inducing exports have visited most of the UK, along with shows in Portugal, Greece and Spain.

Synectic recently caught up with Pritchard to discuss Dirty Sanchez, their touring show, rusty drill bits and future plans.

Interview by Richard Meyrick

Where did the concept of ‘Dirty Sanchez ‘come from?

Myself and Dainton made a video called ‘Pritchard vs. Dainton’ which MTV watched and called us in for a meeting and that’s how Dirty Sanchez came about. The concept was based around the cameras following us in our crazy lives pranking one another and doing stupid stunts. It was more or less an extension of our video ‘Pritchard vs. Dainton’ Do you have a process when thinking of new stunts?

Not really, no. They normally come from the situations we are put in. There are a few “planned” stunts but the best are the spontaneous ones. There are also childhood stunts that I’ve always wanted to do, so doing Dirty Sanchez was a great way of putting those into practice.

Are there any stunts that you’ve thought up but didn’t do?

There is one rule in the Dirty Sanchez camp; “If you named and thought of the stunt and said it out loud, you have to do it.” I’m proud to say we have all not chickened out, yet.

Have any of you had any serious injuries from performing some of the stunts you’ve done?

I spent 8 days with blood poisoning. After losing a game of Trivial Pursuit, I had my hand drilled right through with a rusty drill bit.

Daint has broken a lot of bones but mainly from skateboarding. There

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have been many stitches, bruises and grazes. I once let Daint stitch my head up DIY style!

What’s the worst prank you’ve done to each other?

I think all the stitch ups myself and Daint have done to Pancho when he’s been asleep have to be the best. We’ve shaved his hair and eyebrows. Painted him green, pulled him out of a tent at speed etc, the list goes on.

When Daint stitched me up about being in the Guinness Book of Records had to be a good one too.

The git.

What made you decide to take a slice of Dirty Sanchez on the road?

Are there anymore ‘Dirty Sanchez’ Movies or TV series’ in the pipeline?

dangerous situations thanks to their thundering noise, ace.

We would love to do another series or movie but MTV aren’t interested anymore. There could possibly be another movie but myself and Daint are working on getting another show. Watch this space

How do you rate the Welsh music scene?

You’ve both been part of the Gumball 3000 Road Rally recently.

How was that experience?

I did it in 2009 driving coast to coast from LA to Miami for the first time and it was everything I expected, quite literally the time of my life. However, this year I did it with Daint so we both shared the experience together which was ace. A total lack of sleep for obvious reasons, plenty of glamorous parties and a lot of driving. So so good.

We had a massive fan base so it just made sense to take it on the road and do it live. It was very successful. Doing what we do is very visual, so it wasn’t hard to put Moving in a musical direction, a few stunts together to please the what sort of stuff do you have on masses. Myself and Daint still tour your iPod at the moment? to this day and love it.

I have everything from ABBA, What sort of reaction did you Spice Girls, Slayer, Motorhead, expect to get?

AC/DC. A load of dance music but seriously if you were to look We never realised touring would what’s on my iPod you wouldn’t have been as successful as it has believe it. I’m very open minded been. But the reaction has been when it comes to music although great. Over the years we’ve my favourite type is metal, rock & made fans faint, even security dance. guards watching us have been known to faint whilst watching Are there any particular songs that us. People have been visually ill get you pumped while skating? whilst watching us and we even made a woman go into labour Anything by Slayer. Saying while we were on stage. But she that Slayer has a lot to answer refused to leave until she’d met us. for, because most of my life Dedicated fan right there. they have put me in numerous

I don’t know much to talk about it really. I’m no music critic but I will say my favourite Welsh band have to be Stereophonics, Lostprophets and of course Tom Jones. The Welsh music scene is massive now. We have given birth to many good bands like The Blackout, The Guns, Funeral For A Friend, Super Furry Animals to name a few.

For the people that are unaware, you both appeared in local South Wales band The Guns music video for ‘It’s On Like Donkey Kong’ in early 2010. Is there any other local talent that you think people should check out?

Hahaha yep that was a great day out, top fun. The lead singer Alex is one hell of a character.

And lastly, what does the future hold for Dainton and Pritchard?

Trying to get a new show out, keep having fun and making people laugh.

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MiWiLi Jewellery Words & Photos: Jessica Brown What first inspired you to become a jewellery designer?

Have you always been an artist?

I grew up in St. Ives, Cornwall which is a very inspiring town to live in, lots of galleries and independent shops. I was always inspired to

quirky and ambitious colours, The use of Neoprene (wetsuit) material for the jewellery, allowed me to create colourful, statement pieces without weighing down the wearer. It’s light, airy and beautifully feminine.

Where did the name Jewellery come from?

Miwili

The MiWili name is an abbreviation of Make it, Wear It, Love it.

Which of your personality traits comes through in your work, do you think?

I’ve always been creative – so for this range I would say ‘the queen of the dress-up box’. I think my work can be thoughtfully fun with a humorous element.

What is your favorite part of the design process?

work in the creative sector and jewellery was always something I was passionate about.

Who or what influenced your current collection?

I wanted something that was both beautiful and versatile in design.

Since this was my first collection I needed a blend of commercial appeal and on-trend style. But also I wanted interactive elements, a design the customer can make and wear however they please, so that it could be targeted to appeal to different audiences.

What inspired the colour palette within the range?

This was a spring summer range so I wanted to make the pieces feel as if Summer was here! I chose bold,

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I enjoy working with materials that are a challenge to manipulate. But I think the sense of uncertainty in the design process is what I enjoy – mixing designs and letting it all wrap up together.

When designing, do you have a particular customer in mind?

This collection, in my opinion, is definitely targeted towards people who see no limits, who have a dream and chase it, regardless of setbacks. I wanted the wearer to be able to take the creative process into their own hands and adapt the design into something that suits their style.

Have you developed a ‘signature’ style yet?

If you have, how would you describe it?

I’ve always felt as though I was making little treasures of shapes and patterns and that’s the feeling I have when I’m in my studio. I

guess, its creating statement pieces from a weird and wonderful range of materials.

What advise would you give to graduate jewellery designers?

You have to believe in yourself, which is not always an easy thing to do. It’s a very competitive industry now, and it’s inevitable that some doors won’t open if you’re not prepared for some hard graft! But don’t ever lose heart.

What are you currently working on?

I have currently set up a small studio in the Jewellery Quarter (Birmingham), and I’m working on a smaller range of precious jewellery suitable for the bridal market.

What can we expect next from Miwili Jewellery?

I’ve met some great people at trade shows and have been in talks about distributing the product with some international retailers.

Craig Thomas

PHOTOGRAPHY

Photographer Craig Thomas (aka Opposite Images) is fast becoming known as one of the best, most consistent music photographers in South Wales. Having worked with such local bands as TOWN & 4th Street Traffic, Craig has also covered some of the biggest shows in South Wales in recent memory, including Snoop Dogg, Merthyr Rock & Stereophonics, to name but a few. We caught up with Craig to get a few words about what drives as a photographer, where he wants to be, and how you can follow in his footsteps. Interview by Kevin Barnes

What got you photography?

started

with

My Dad. When I was a kid I used to spend many nights in the kitchen where he would turn it into a make shift dark room. I always remember sitting on the work top with the red light hanging from the door. As a result I did photography as a GCSE and my passion for it has grown ever since.

And what specifically pushed you towards music photography?

A lucky break, thanks to my brother. I bought a ticket for the Stereophonics gig last year at the Cardiff City Stadium. My brother was working on the Stereophonic’s Security team and asked me if I wanted a photo pass, in return for taking some PR images for the company he was working for. It was a no brainer. I have to say though, to shoot the Stereophonics as your first ever gig for me was a baptism of fire. I loved every second of it and haven’t looked back since.

What was your favourite band shoot, and why?

There have been a few bands that I have loved shooting, but it was the Stereophonics gig that always has the fondest memories of shooting. I am a massive Stereophonics fan, so to shoot them on one of the home coming gigs in Cardiff. It was a sell out the atmosphere was just electric that night. Just an epic gig.

And what was the best show you’ve ever covered?

That’s a tough one. There are a few worthy of a mention. Like Elbow, Judas Priest, Black Label Society and Bullet For My Valentine. My favourite, however was when I shot The Blackout when they were supporting My Chemical Romance in Cardiff. That night The Blackout were simply amazing to watch, as a photographer they are a great band to shoot anyway because of the energy they put into every show, but that night they were on a whole different level; just awesome.

Who’s work are you inspired by?

There are lots of very good music photographers out there. But the ones that really inspire me are Andy Willsher, Danny North, and Todd Owyoung, On a whole, how do you rate the local music scene nowadays?

The Welsh music scene is buzzing at the moment. With the likes of The Blackout, Funeral For A Friend (who everyone has heard of) and the new crop of bands. The likes of TOWN, 4th Street Traffic, Tiger Please, Straight Lines, Friends Electric & Save Your Breath to name a few, who I have no doubt will achieve bigger things.

If you could shoot any gig past or present, which would you choose and why?

If I could have shot one gig I think it would have been Live Aid. There has never been a bigger gig, with a bigger line up and I doubt there ever will be. It made history for all the right reasons through the celebration of music. It was an iconic event in the music industry and to have been there to capture it would, to say the least, have been a little bit special.

What’s your greatest achievement in your work to date?

Music photography is my passion and I have been lucky enough to be noticed for my images, which gives me a huge buzz. This has lead to me being asked to cover gigs for a local music website stereoboard.com which is the first step on the ladder for me in where I want to get to with my music photography Do you have any long standing ambitions or goals as a photographer?

I am just like lots of other music photographers. I want to get published in the big music magazines; like NME, Kerrang, Rocksound, Metal Hammer etc. on a regular basis. But I would also love to tour with a band to document it from start to finish, one day hopefully I’ll get that lucky break.

Finally, what advice would you give to any aspiring music photographers?

The way I started was to get in contact with a local band and ask them if you can shoot them live in return for some images.

I did this with 4th Street Traffic. I shot them 3/4 times a month for a year and learned the trade, shooting and getting useable images even in poorly lit venues.

Particularly as most large venues don’t allow the use of flash.

Also go to smaller venues as they don’t normally have photo pass restriction. This will help build up a portfolio of images which you can then use to showcase your work to people. Get plenty of variety in your work, not just the mic in front of the face shots, which I did when I first started. The key is to persevere, you will get knocked back a lot but you just have to have that “never say die” attitude.

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Q&A

ROMESH DODANGODA such a ridiculously talented band and such good friends. We had a great time making it and I’m really proud of how it came out. It’s just been nominated for the Welsh Music Prize too which is great! There are too many good memories, there are pretty much great stories to go with almost everyone I’ve worked with.

What do you think is on the cards for up and coming music?

Hopefully Oasis will reform and my life will be complete.

Can you introduce yourself and what you do?

My name is Romesh Dodangoda. I’m a Record Producer and Mixer from Cardiff. I also have a studio in Cardiff called Long Wave.

Can you tell us some of the names you have worked with since you have started?

I’ve been really lucky to be in the studio with some incredibly talented people! I’ve worked with bands like Motorhead, Lostprophets, Funeral For A Friend, Kids In Glass Houses, The Blackout, Twin Atlantic, lots!

How was it starting out on your own and building your business to what it is now?

I’ve been doing it for 10 years now and I have faced a lot of challenges along the way. The difficult or stressful moments are totally worth it though when you see people enjoying a record you worked on.

What was your main intention or specific goal when you started?

there is not really any competition. Everyone helps everyone and when a band breaks out of here, more often than not, they take one of the next generation of bands out with them.

We all know each other and go out and have a good time, it’s a really great scene we have.

There is a band called Town who are from Newport who I have decided to give a bit of a helping hand with. I got involved with them because it was something a bit different to what was going on, but still really simple, catchy songs. They take influence from bands like The Jam, The Clash and but put their own spin on it too.

Apart from Town, people should definitely check out Save Your Breath, Tiger Please, Exit International, Broken Vinyl Club, The Last Republic, Straight Lines, Cuba Cuba, too many to mention!

Are there any tracks/bands/albums that you have worked on that you have a particularly fond memory of?

What do you think about the state of the music scene in Wales at the moment? Are there any bands you think people should keep their eyes out for?

I have a lot of fond memories of so many records its quite hard to select a few. I had such an enjoyable time working on Smart Casual with Kids In Glass Houses. It was such an exciting time, the band had got so big from this little EP we did called E-Pocalypse and when we got to make an album, everyone just seemed to have a really fun time every day.

Definitely a lot of fond memories from that session.

Wales has been producing incredible bands for years and years. It’s such a community here,

I loved working on Funeral For A Friend’s ‘Welcome Home Armageddon’ too. They are

I just love to work with bands and try to help them get what they want out of their songs and being in the studio. I haven’t really thought about it in any other way!

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We have seen on your Twitter that you are currently working with the Music Video Production crew Sitcom Soldiers. Is this cross media work something you want to establish and work on more?

Basically I had this idea that I wanted to do a series of Live Sessions, almost like a “live from Abbey Road” kind of vibe. So I started making plans for it, and then Ben from Sitcom Soldiers phoned me with pretty much the same idea!

So I thought it would be great for us to do it together. Ben has directed videos for so many artists I work with so it was a great chance to do some work together. We just launched series 1 with Rocksound Magazine and it has gone down so well. I am already looking to start planning series 2! I think it was a really good chance for people to see bands play in a different enviroment than they might usually get to experience them, so yes, I’d love to carry on making some more of the live session episodes.

Are there any future/past/present artists that would be a dream come true to work with?

And why?

Noel Gallagher, if you’re reading this, call me!

Hah! I don’t know, I just love working with bands who are really into what they do and write great songs. If I can keep doing that, I’ll be very happy.

Finally, if you could give one single piece of advice to someone thinking of setting up their own creative business, what would it be?

I would say if theres something you want to do, and you want it bad enough, then go for it and don’t let anybody stop you!

Interview by Martin Izzard

Q&A

Intensive Square Congratulations firstly on winning Metal to the Masses, you beat off some stiff competition. What does it mean to a band like yours?

It’s a big deal for us. We had a laugh being in the competition. There are some good bands around here so we played real heavy, and we’re just glad it paid off. As for the prize itself Bloodstock was unreal.

And what was it like taking to the stage at Bloodstock?

Just incredible. There was a wild atmosphere and the sound was huge.

The pit looked savage f r o m where we were standing.

It was just class to play at such a big festival where everyone’s into heavy music.

Did you learn any tricks/secrets from some of the headlining acts?

We didn’t meet many of the heavy hitters, but just seeing Triptykon’s set was an education. They were incredible. Motorhead proved that you can never drink enough. They were awesome.

You must have a taste for more festivals and big shows after that?

It’s the biggest thing we’ve done so far and it made us hungry to play more festivals and gigs like it. We just want to play some massive gigs and break a pile of necks. The more the better.

How has playing Bloodstock impacted and influenced the band?

It’s definitely given us a kick up the arse. The main thing it showed us

is that the big slots are there for the taking. You’ve just got to get your balls out and make sure enough people have a look at them, so that’s what we’re going to do.

How do you feel the metal scene in South Wales is doing at the moment?

The scene’s definitely growing, and it’s been a much better laugh to play around South Wales over the last 12 months than it used to be. There’s some awesome bands, and some of them seem to be doing pretty well.

There are a few good promoters putting on gigs that pull the crowds in, like Cadence Metal Carnival. The last one of those we did was rammed.

The only downside is that decent support slots around here are pretty hard to come by. Some of the bigger promoters seem reluctant to make use of the serious local bands while they can get them for cheap.

What inspired the band to come together and write music?

We got bored of hearing other bands write music that sounded lame. The whole metal scene was and still is saturated with watered down music by bands with zero attitude beyond their own proclamation that they have an attitude. None of it comes across in the performance and it all sounds weak to us, so the reason we started is because we knew we had a handle on something that was heavier and more aggressive than what was coming out, and we wanted to hear that for ourselves.

What are your future aspirations for the band, how far do you think you can take it?

We fully intend to take it all the way.

We just want to play as many gigs as we can and get our name around.

We’re about to start recording our first album so we’re going to sink our

teeth into that and then find the right people to release it with. Our sound is growing with every riff we write and we’re fully in control of it, so we’re confident that every new song that we put out is going to get progressively heavier. Ideally we’ll get to the point where people have to leave the room when they hear us.

What’s been your biggest influence musically?

Just anything that sounds stinking. In terms of bands - you can obviously hear Pantera, Crowbar, Meshuggah and Mastodon in there. We’re also influenced by some jazz guys like Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy and Naked City but we go for anything that stinks - regardless of genre or even format. I mean - we get a lot of inspiration from Stanley Kubrick and David Lynch films and other films in that vein, and with that in mind I would say that another huge inspiration is porn.

What advice would you give to people looking to get involved with the local metal scene, promoters, musicians, bands?

Musicians and bands - drink more, stop whining, turn your amps up louder, get to know the other bands around here, and leave that hat at home.

Promoters - book Intensive Square on all your gigs.

Interview by Kevin Barnes

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MODEL profile

Lady Noctis Model, illustrator, there isn’t much a multi-disciplined creative like Lady Noctis can’t do. Synectic sat down for a chat about all things creative with one of South Wales’ favourite alternative ladies. This is what we came up with.

Interview by Kevin Barnes

How did you become interested in modelling?

I had always had an interest in the modelling industry; however I never really pursued it until the end of my first year in University.

During that time I would part-take in a lot of student photographers projects.

My first professional model experience took place in March 2009 when a model based in Swansea posted a casting looking for non-models for a group shoot based around the classic film, ‘Labyrinth’. The results from that shoot were published in the August 2009 issue of Alt Fashion magazine, resulting in a few photographers contacting me for more shoots. This furthered my interest and enabled me to build up my portfolio; then I set up an account on Model Mayhem and have been trying to make my little foot-print on the industry ever since.

Did you quickly have an idea of your own style as a model, or is that something you had to develop?

I have always dressed within the alternative genre of fashion, my key influences are from the Victorian and Edwardian era, combined with steampunk and gothic Lolita. I have always kept these elements within my shoots, however I am more than happy to branch out into other styles/ genres if the project requires it. I have recently branched out to work within latex

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clothing, which I love to do. Latex is such a beautiful material to work with, the way it feels next to the skin and the way it works with the contours of the human form is just beautiful.

Who was your greatest influence when you started modelling?

I think it’s fair to say there are clear influences of Emilie Autumn within my first few sets. As previously mentioned I used elements of the Victorian era and there is a clear wayward Victorian style which could be seen in my early shoots and is still present today in my opinion.

Other talented and beautiful models that are inspiring to me are Mosh, Opehlia Overdose, Kato and Ulorin Vex. I look at their works and I am constantly blown away, they never cease to amaze me.

How do you feel about what you’ve achieved through modelling, are you where you wanted to be, or is there more to come?

This industry is a huge pond, and I have only made a few ripples on the surface, but even with that I never expected to be where I am now. It amazes me every day to see the following I have gained, the amazing creatives I have had the opportunity to work with and the publications I have achieved. Anything I get

related to modelling is a bonus, I never in a million years thought I would achieve what I have; it’s not a large amount but it’s huge to me.

How do you ultimately view modelling?

How do you feel about the attitudes towards modelling from a creative vs. profit perspective?

For me it’s another artistic outlet. I am an illustrator first, a model second; however I like to view modelling as another dimension to illustrating. I love to create with fellow creatives and this enables me to do that. The majority of my collaborations have never involved any form of profit, any money I have made from modelling (which is very small) has gone straight back into it. This may be in the form of travel, wardrobe, hair etc. It’s quite an expensive creative outlet, but I enjoy doing this so much.

I would be lying if I said I wouldn’t like to be making a living out of this, I think it’s fair to say most creatives would like to make a living out of what they love creating. But the reality of it is that road is a long way from me. Who knows? Maybe one day I will live off my modelling and illustrating but in the meantime I am happy just creating.

What’s the best advice anybody’s ever given you with regards to modelling?

Stay true to yourself and never let anyone make you stray from your comfort zone; and most importantly always enjoy yourself.

And what advice would you give to somebody starting out in modelling?

I would say the above, which is exactly what my mother said to me. If you’re not enjoying yourself then it’s not the thing for you; this should be something you love.

You get to create all the time, what’s not to love?

What’s your favourite shot from your portfolio, and why?

Another Bizarre highlight for me was when I was first published in the magazine as an Ultra Vixen back in August 2010. It was their 166th issue and I can be found on page 53 and yes I can still remember the page and issue. *giggles*

me I would.

My most recent achievement was being on the cover of DarkFaery Subculture Magazine. I ended up being on the cover and getting a 2 page spread on their Heroes and Villains special dressed up as D.C Comics Character Harley Quinn. As a Batman fangirl this was a big achievement for me.

I have been interested in art for as long as I can remember, it’s something I have always done. I can’t remember a time I was not drawing or creating.

This is always such a tough question as there are so many shots from my portfolio I love. However there is one that has become an identity for my alias of Lady Noctis. It captures my quirky nature as well as all the fashion elements I love and inspire me. (left of opposite page) Who would you most like to collaborate with on a shoot?

Now this is a really tough question, due to the fact there are so many talented creatives I would love to have the opportunity to work with in the future. Currently though, the top four photographers I would love to work with are Julian Kilsby, Switch Photography, Robert Alvarado and Scott Chalmers. The location would have to be something derelict, Victorian inspired or Miles Murder Studios and I would love to be wearing something by Bibian Blue, Eustratia or Violaceous Latex. Make-up Artists I would love to work with are RyoLove, Maja Stine or Gypsy Tramps and Thieves. I adore all these creatives and their works, so if I ever got the chance to work with any of them it would be an absolute honour as well as being an unforgettable experience.

What’s your greatest achievement as a model?

There are a few achievements that make the top of my list. So rather than just naming one, I shall mention a few.

My first, most surreal and exciting experience was being a Bizarre Ultra Vixen representative at the Bizarre Ball last year with 9 fellow models. It was honestly an incredible experience. We had a mini shoot too at the Bizarre Balls photobooth which was featured in the magazine.

Away from modelling you’re a keen artist, what got you interest with art in general?

And what can you tell us about your art work?

I have always been an artist of illustrative contradictions, I can be found using a bright palette which is a contrast to my quirky style and dark subject matter. My art can be described as Pop Surrealism, seductive with an air of melancholy. I am highly inspired by the Victorian era, the emotions of ones individual state, dark romanticism and all things timeless. I also like to explore and develop different subject matters and mediums as it enables me to grow and develop as an artist. My work exists in a sensually esoteric realm yet at the same time possesses a sense of accessibility that draws the observer to them.

Do you have any other creative talents that people may not know about?

If you could change anything about the world today, what would you change and why?

There are honestly far too many things about the world today that if I could I would honestly change. Discrimination in the work place is certainly one of them, I really dislike the fact that people with piercings, tattoo’s and/or different coloured hair are made to feel like they have to cover up. I was once declined a job because my hair was red, it wasn’t even a bright red at the time; but apparently it was deemed to be unsuitable for the working environment.

I do not see how any of these elements make a persons work ethic any different from the next, and I really do feel that this is a view point that does need changing.

Another thing that upsets me is how art is being censored on networking sites. Then there are the usual factors that frustrate me and the rest of the world, such as global warming, the economy, world hunger, cures for cancer etc. Sadly I don’t see any of these changing in my lifetime. If there was something I could do in the world to change or contribute to the change believe

Not that I can think of, I am a pretty open book about my creative talents, I used to do gymnastics and ballet however that had to stop after I managed to dislocate my foot in three places. Sadly there is no amazing story to go with this, I just tripped over my own foot so it’s a weak point me for now. Which is why I had to quit both, due to the fact my foot could no longer take the support of it all.

What goals have you set yourself in the next 12 months?

I have recently relocated to Southampton, so I am currently getting my life settled there. I’m working on a new series of artworks which I hope to have exhibited in Lincoln before the end of this year.

Updates will be available on my website, www.ladynoctis.co.uk In addition to all of this, I also hope to bring out a new range of jewellery featuring my illustrations, a new book and a few more t-shirts.

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STYLE

Charity Fashion Show Grovesend Miners Club, Gorseinon Saturday 24th September 2011

On the 24th of September, local model Rachel Cox organised a charity fashion show, which was held at Grovesend Miners Club, Gorseinon. The event was organised for the benefit of two national charities; Headway and Rainbow Child Foundation. As well as benefitting charity, the event also offered local, new, young models the opportunity to try a catwalk show for the first time. A total of ÂŁ50 was raised in donations on the night.

taking to the stage. Lucy covered an array of artists from Amy Winehouse to Adele. Lucy gave a great performance, maybe there’s an X Factor appearance in her future? The event laid on food & drink to compliment the great selection of dresses and musical entertainment. It was certainly an important night, and one not to have been missed.

Organiser Rachel put the event together as part of her efforts to win the Face of Cardiff beauty For a small locally-organised event, the night ran pageant. Rachel was pleased with the outcome as smoothly as that of an experienced fashion of the evening, and the money raised for charity. agency, credit to Rachel Cox for this. It was a really Further events are planned for the future to fantastic night for everyone involved. Models and expand on the good work started on the night. audience alike enjoyed a fun evening. The models Rachel answered a few questions for Synectic on walked really well, especially considering many of the night (opposite page). them were walking a catwalk for the first time.

As well as fashion, there was something of a musical showcase with local girl Lucy Shellard

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Words & Photographs by Phoebe Gorman

An interview with organiser Rachel Cox How did this evening go for you? Do you think that it went well?

on this project with you tonight?

I think that it went well overall. Next time a bit more time and preparation would have made it a much better show. But I am very pleased with the overall result.

Adele Griffiths, Rebecca Davies, Angharad Davies, Chloe Lloyd Bowen, Shannon Rush and Rachel Coppin.

Who supplied the beautiful dresses that appeared in tonight’s show?

Are you planning to hold more events similar to this one in the future?

Kylie Hearne, who owns a company called Stardust Boutique. She is hoping to open a boutique in Cardiff soon as she is based totally online at the moment.

Are you working on any other competitions right now besides Face of Cardiff?

No, at present I am just working on Face of Cardiff as it is a big competition.

Are you considering a future in modelling for yourself?

I can’t see myself modelling in the future as my height in against me. I would like to stay in the modelling industry working with local photographers and I wish to open my own modelling agency in the next few years.

Who are the young models that worked

Yes. I plan to hold the next one in November.

Is there anyone you’d like to thank for contribution to this event?

I would like to thank the company that sponsored me in the Face of Cardiff event. The people who generously donated the food for the buffet on the night, the girls that turned up on the day for giving their time and making the night great. The owners of Grovesend Miners Club for allowing me use of the hall and Kylie Hearne from Star Dust Boutique for the beautiful dresses that were there on the night.

I would also like to thank Synectic Magazine for coming to this event.

Photographs, Above: Face of Cardiff ’s Kylie Hearn (left) & organiser Rachel Cox. Opposite page: All of the models showcasing the dresses on the catwalk finale.

Below: Various models showcasing some of the dresses.

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R ya n B at e r

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At just 18, photographer Ryan Bater has already carved out a niche in the South Wales scene. Creating photos of which many more established photographers would be jealous, Ryan is an upcoming talent whom should be firmly focussed on. Creating breathless, stunning images - there is a sure to be a big future ahead for this young man. See what he thinks about his prospects, his place in the world, and what he feels is necessary for longevity as a photographer.

What inspired you to pursue photography?

Good question, inspiration came from my environment and the people around me.

At the time I wanted to capture scenic views, and document where I lived. From then on, my creativity grew in stacks and photographing people was my next big challenge.

You’ve certainly developed your own style, what has influenced your style of photography in particular?

I like to capture a particular mood, both with how I light the photograph, and how I treat the image in camera.

I usually shoot in a sepia tone in camera; I feel it really adds a lot of dark neutral tones to the image, which wouldn’t have been the case if I had photographed in colour. It’s just a personal taste than anything, but I need to change my style if I want to grow as a photographer, my work is far too personal to sell myself in this industry as of now.

When you started, did you have a clear style in mind, or has it developed over time?

It has certainly developed in time; I think it’s natural for style of photography to change with age, same with all things really; everyone changes in time, hopefully for the better though. I want to keep developing my style, until I have reached my goal. I need to produce much cleaner work; my work is far too moody and full of atmosphere. Instead of art work, I need to produce a product. That’s my goal, to produce a portfolio of work that will sell to clients.

What does it take to stand out in an often over-saturated environment?

It takes a lot to stand out, you need to bend the rules in every way and express your views until they are noticed. You need be able to network, networking is key to success, both in person and on the internet. Having great contacts is far better than just having a great portfolio of work and not every photographer/artist knows this. If you produce work different to everyone, sure you are going to stand out, but think about the quality of your work as well, it’s just important.

What would you be shooting if you weren’t shooting fashion?

Quite easy really, I’d be a documentary photographer; I find it super fascinating to photograph things in a documentary

style, and it’s both beautiful and makes you overlook the image, asking more than just questions. There are a lot of other things I would like to be ‘shooting’, landscape photography is one of them, and so is travel photography, emotive, and interesting portraits during travels is so inviting. But, as of now, all these choices are unrealistic; they would all have to be just a hobby if anything. They do not produce profit, nor a living. I think it’s important to think what will sell, and what will not, fashion isn’t a money making category either. In fact, it takes time in the fashion industry to produce a living off it, as a photographer. You simply need the right contacts, and if you do not have them, you won’t succeed in making a living from it.

What photographers/creatives do you look up to, and why?

There are quite a few photographers that inspire me currently; the following are just a few of those peopleGrant Thomas, Annie Leibovitz, & Paolo Roversi.

Can you tell us about any exciting upcoming projects you’re working on?

I’ve currently been employed as a creative director of an American based fashion magazine. Due to release in stores across America, and online towards the end of October. It’s quite fascinating being involved in the graphic design world.

One word that comes to mind whilst having this job title is – productive. I keep coming up with fresh ideas, being involved in a big team, and producing fascinating results to a wide audience.

It’s very good to have more than one career choice in mind to work towards in life; I give my all in everything I work towards. Time will only tell on what I will work towards the most to have a career in. Otherwise, I’m going to keep building up my photographic portfolio, producing cleaner and much professional end results.

Next year, I have a lot of things planned, including relocating to London.

What’s your opinion of the South Wales photographer/model scene?

There are definitely a lot of potential models and photographers coming from South Wales. The majority of models in my portfolio are people I have scouted from South Wales, and I’m confident to say there are plenty more people in this

large area of the country that could easily make it in the London fashion scene, or even the fashion industry in general.

There is some serious talent coming from young photographers in South Wales, it’s very exciting really. But, there isn’t an industry in South Wales, if you want to make it as a fashion photographer, or model, you need to relocate to London, period.

If you could shoot any model, any clothing/accessory line in any location, what would you pick and why? Model; Daphne, location; underwater- I have too many favourite designers, but very couture pieces, if anything.

Finally, what advice would you offer to any aspiring photographers and models?

Keep pushing yourself, if you are a model, and you feel you really have the potential to succeed in the fashion industry, and have the self-confidence to make you survive in the tough industry that it is, forget about having a professional portfolio. Take some simple shots of your face and body, front and side, and send it to all the top agencies and smaller boutique agencies in London. You will then know if you have the potential to be a fashion model or commercial model in the industry. Because, that is all top agencies want: snap shots. Yes, a portfolio is great to have for building confidence and experience, but to impress such a big agency all you need to have natural photographs of yourself.

For up and coming photographers, the advice I would give is to keep setting goals and achieving them. Forget about making art work and personal work for now, you need to produce work that sells to a number of clients. That’s if you want to do this as a career in the future. It’s hard to make it in the fashion industry as a photographer; pay is usually very low at the start, quite un-motivating. But, if you really push yourself, and most of all- network. You will make it as a photographer in the industry. Just keep selling yourself and your work, and great things will happen. Being productive constantly goes far. Being in the industry is something, but being noticed is another thing.

I’d recommend doing work experience with top photographers too, and entering competitions, anything to really make your name stand out.

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kevin barnes freelance photography & web design

music | portrait | wedding www.kevinbarnes.co

local designer

Santa Macabre Words: Vicki Roach, Photos: iamsuko

Santa Macabre is a Cardiff-based jewellery company run exclusively

by Maria Junko. Every piece is handmade and styled uniquely in its own way. Started in 2009, Santa Macabre Jewellery first sold at Wolverhampton vegan festival, and has since gone on to sell at many other craft fairs. As well as Maria starting her own craft fair in Cardiff, Vintage Pretty. Now being stocked in several stores, tattoo and piercing studios across the UK, Santa Macabre is growing fast.

As well as jewellery, Santa Macabre is also making custom faux fur collars, which have had a huge demand. Lots of order have been made for customers and models alike, being featured in several photo shoots all over the UK. Santa Macabre is also customising bars and other accessories.

Maria has said: “it is so touching to me that my customers come back time and time again. It really warms my heart!� Santa Macabre is going strong and taking custom orders now, so whether you want a necklace, cute bag or your very own faux fur collar - check out and support this local designer.

Where to Buy

Online: www.santamacabre.bigcartel.com Facebook: Santa Macabre Jewellery

Next Craft Fair Vintage Pretty, at 10 Feet Tall, Cardiff Saturday 19th November (12.00 - 17.00) Saturday 10th December (12.00 - 17.00)

Are you a local designer? Do you want to be featured in a future issue? Contact vicki@synecticmag.co.uk for more info

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REVIEWS

kids in glass houses ‘in gold blood’ release show

Review by: Natalie Lam Photographs: Craig Thomas When you become a band that successfully dominates the top 40 UK chart and plays sold out shows across the country, sometimes it’s easy to forget your roots and the area that your band originates. However, this is not the case for Kids In Glass Houses as, after being a signed band for almost 4 years, they regularly return to play hometown shows. In this case, the release show for latest album ‘In Gold Blood’.

Eager, dedicated fans who have been queuing since 9am rush into the venue as though there’s no tomorrow, with expressions of excitement scrawled upon their faces. Newport pop-punkers, Save Your Breath take advantage of this opportunity and flood the venue with their melodic, catchy sound. They open with the newest single ‘Nothing Worth Having Comes Easy’ and immediately initiate a circle pit.

Up next are Straight Lines, who keep the crowd satisfied with their unique sound - a cross between Jimmy Eat World and Bombay Bicycle Club.

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cardiff uni / 14 aug 2011 support: Save Your Breath, Straight Lines Despite a good set, they seem to have hidden their full potential tonight.

represent how much movement went on.

Following the impressive performances of both Straight Lines and Save Your Breath, all the attention turns to the headlining act.

When the lights go down, the piercing screams and cries of their fans drown out the backing track, but Kids In Glass Houses are successful on a memorable entrance, launching into ‘Gold Blood,’ which sounds different from the free download. Sounding more ballsy and more rock than the pop tint of the recorded version.

Their set clearly demonstrates the diverse sound that the band have produced since 2008. Although the crowd are somewhat unaware of the new tracks they perform, they are nothing but enthusiastic. No prompt is needed for fist bumps to the “HEY!”’s during ‘Youngblood’ or claps to the verses of ‘Undercover Lover,’ and it’s hard to believe the roof doesn’t collapse with the crowd jumping so eagerly. Only a sweatdrowned t-shirt sweat can accurately

With a live set stripped down to its basics, Kids In Glass Houses are proof that a band doesn’t need gimmicks to impress a crowd.

9/10

boy set sail hornblower, newport / 23 sep 2011 Review & Photo: Kevin Barnes

support: man of the hour

GOATSTOCK Synectic chatted with the organisers of Goatstock to discuss the success of the inaugural charity all-dayer this October, along with plans for next year.

So, the inaugural Goatstock has been and gone, was the day a success?

In so much that we actually managed to get to the day without losing our minds, jobs or body parts, yeah. The day itself was incredible, usually all day events start off quiet and get busy in the evening, but the vast majority of people showed up early and stayed all day. Particular mention for all the bands, who were brilliant in performance and many showed up hours before their set to watch the shows.

And how much did you manage to raise for Ty Hafan?

Biker bars and punk rock, perhaps not the ideal combination? For newcomers Boy Set Sail, any stage time is vital, the same is true for their support, Man of the Hour. Being relatively new, Boy Set Sail aren’t really a known name around here yet, but expect that to change.First up is an enthusiastic Man of the Hour. Who sadly lack the intensity and cohesion to go with what are undoubtedly catchy and promising songs, certainly a band to keep an eye on over the coming months.

Boy Set Sail come onto the stage initially in the guise of Gareth Jones and his acoustic guitar. The front man plays some well-known covers, along with promising sounding original material.

Add another guitar, bass and drums to that and Boy Set Sail’s appeal is instant. For such a small stage, the quartet produces an almighty sound.

Introducing fledging tracks from debut EP ‘We’re Almost There,’ it’s quickly evident that Boy Set Sail have the talent, material and drive to set their sights on bigger stages and support slots in the not too distant future.

This intimate show feels like the best kept secret in South Wales tonight, it won’t stay that way for long.

8/10

We’re still totting up, but it looks like we’ve covered the costs of putting on the day and raised a little bit. Just a tip for anyone wanting to do a charity show - try and cover your costs before you open the doors. These things are costly to run, and while any all day event that breaks even is a success, I have to say personally I wanted to raise much more. It’s a learning curve for everyone.

Are plans already underway for next year?

Yesterday we had a preliminary meeting to debrief from this years event, and to talk about what could be done next year.

We have learned a lot on the organisational side, and we will be actively seeking sponsorship next year to run a bigger event and raise more money for Ty Hafan.

What was the highlight of the day for you?

Musical highlight for me was the performance of Anterior. Every band on the bill played out of their skins, and I was (foolishly) worried for a moment that bands like Chaos Trigger, Fourth Autumn and so on would set the bar so high that the headliners might fall flat. Just goes to show I know nothing about anything, as Anterior come out with that harmonised sweep picking stuff and everyone loses their minds. Flawless. Other than the music, it was great to see so many people having a great day, all together. I have to give special mention to Mel Cracknell who has been in on the Goatstock team since the beginning and stage managed the show. By the time Anterior were doing their stage set up, we were running I think 7 minutes behind schedule, which for an all day event with very tight change over times is practically unheard of.

The local metal community seemed to come together well for the event, was it like that from an organisers perspective?

Inspiring. With an event like this (which to my knowledge has not been done in Cardiff before), to build the show from scratch and to see all these great people forgo their sunday dinners for metal and charity, that was really something. We as a team began Goatstock with little more than the idea and experience from playing and going to shows. So for an event that was run on basically good intentions and no experience it was great to have them come out in such a great way.

Did you achieve everything you set out to achieve with the event?

We didn’t raise as much as we’d hoped for, but it wasn’t a one off. We achieved what many people thought could not be done, which was to have an entire day of metal and have all the profits go to charity. I’m not saying that promoters that do this sort of thing for a living are wrong, because without the many great promotion teams in Wales we’d have no scene for metal at all. I think we proved that with enough preparation and strength of will you can achieve really good things.

Having done it, what would you do differently next time?

Next time around we’re taking a bit of a broader approach, Team Goat has expanded to take on more members. Definitely we’ll be looking at sponsorship to help cover costs. The exposure for a business to be affiliated with a popular, charity-supporting show should gain enough support to enable us to go into Goatstock 2012 without having to worry about overheads.

Who would you most likely look to next year?

Goatstock 2012 is still in the planning stage, so the line up hasn’t been looked at just yet. I have a couple of bands in mind that I want to see play, but all that will have to stay under wraps. Next years show will be a bit earlier in the year.

We’ve got to begin organising things straight off the bat. The most important people we can attract to GS2012 is anyone who is reading this and likes music. Without the people supporting the scene, going to local shows and coming 39 to events like Goatstock, none of it happens.

REVIEWS album

KIDS IN GLASS HOUSES

IN GOLD BLOOD OUT NOW // ROADRUNNER Review: Kevin Barnes Three albums is a long time in music nowadays. Reaching this milestone is a sure fire way to say you’ve made it, or at least you have a lot of perseverence (or money).

In Kids In Glass Houses’ case, it’s the former. Cardiff’s favourite five piece have been a long time getting to this point, but their follow-up to 2010’s ‘Dirt’ feels right. It almost feels like a sense of how it should always be. ‘In Gold Blood’ feels like the album Kids In Glass Houses have

album

EXIT INTERNATIONAL

always been working towards.

It’s undeniable, this band have grown up a lot over the years. They’ve honed their raw, unadulterated passion and energy with a finesse and refinement that screams of maturity. Tamed are the instant hooks (although very much still there), interlaced with a deeper, more profound songwriting craft. Time was a Kids In Glass Houses track could sell you on an impossibly catchy chorus, now they grab you through every millisecond.

‘Gold Blood’ kicks off at an almighty tempo after almost a minute of ambient noise. The drum rhythm drives through with vocals overlayed before pushing into a simple, yet effective chorus. There’s an energy and ferocity to this track which one may not instantly associate with Kids In Glass Houses. Rest assured, it’s them.

‘Teenage Wonderland’ has that instant endearing feeling, there’s a dreamy quality to the opening sequence. If ‘Gold Blood’ was a departure from the sugary sweet Kids In Glass Houses of old, then ‘Teenage Wonderland’s’ sweet melodies transform the band back into the old friend that many people will recognise.

Building towards a crescendo, ‘Teenage Wonderland’ will surely be one of those instant classics - and immediately recognisable.

Kids In Glass Houses have a habit for writ‘Black Junk’ feels like band finding its feet, and realising some of its potential.

Whether you call their music amazing, quirky or “just noise,” it’s difficult to find too many reasons to criticise their attempts.

At just over 33 minutes, the 13 tracks combine to create a fast paced sonic frenzy of loud noises, wails and downright dirty, rocking beats. Be warned, it will assault your senses. It’s how you come out the other end that really counts.

black junk OUT NOW // undergroove Review: Kevin Barnes Exit International are arguably one of Wales’ best known “obscure” bands. Delivering, as they do, a high octane, fist to the face, no bullshit sound, there are queues of equal length to both praise and criticise the band’s sound.

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‘Glory Horn’ sets the tone brilliantly, falling through phases of noise before eventually getting to the point with vocals.

The bands abrasive style is fully flaunted and worn proudly throughout the album The mixtrue and change up within each song resembles controlled chaos, expect carnage, but in a pleasant manner.

Pleasant? Give this album chance and you may understand the use of word.

‘Sex w/ Strangers’ is an instant departure from the opening track. It’s vibrant and upbeat, rushing by in no time. At this

ing tracks like that, and the trio of ‘Diamond Days,’ ‘Not In This World,’ and ‘The Florist’ are all immediate and catchy in their own ways.

‘Animals’ is an edgier affair, more in keeping with the mature sound Kids In Glass Houses have been gradually honing.

‘Only The Brave Die Free’ is more downtempo, subdued, but still brilliantly Kids In Glass Houses.

‘Annie May’ follows up and feels like a steadily accelerating V8 building to a massive crescendo. Chorus lyrics “let go” almost sound wailed by Aled Phillips, chilling and stunning simultaneously.

‘Fire’ has a similar, although less profound vibe, it doesn’t work quite as well, sadly. ‘Black Crush’ feels like experimentation, a distorted intro works its way into distant sounding vocals. Different. Closing track ‘A God To Many Devils’ shares similar characteristics, although is much closer to the trodden path.

It almost seems as though, with the closing tracks, the band have dropped some of the intensity which was creating such a top record. Overall ‘In Gold Blood’ is a coming of age, and top album. But there’s an unshakable feeling that it could somehow have been better.

7/10 point, see if you can call the changes.

There are such profound changes within the songs that it’s hard to pick where some songs end and others begin. The blending is superb, it’s quite possible you will listen to this album dozens of times and always hear something new.

‘Voices’ is probably the stand out track of the record. There’s a slightly more accessible feel to this track, when compared to the others - and the hook in the chorus is more prominent. ‘Bowies Ghost’ is a close second in terms of accessible hook fodder.

It’s difficult to pick much more out of this record to highlight. Hearing is believing.

It’s chaotic, accomplished, epic and disastrous all at the same time. A frankly stunning effort, but not quite definitive.

There’s a sense of better to come in future, but if this is the sighter, then make sure you stay tuned. Credit to Exit International however, they’re doing their own thing, and aren’t ashamed of it.

8/10

REVIEWS EP

EP

THE GUNS

JACOB EYNON ing Girls” - guaranteed to get the listener singing along almost immediately. It’s undoubtedly one for the set-list in the future.

FUCK THE DEMON OUTTA ME out 21 Nov 2011 // SELF-RELEASED Review: Andrew Roach The Guns’ new EP is very much like a trip to the buffet, some stuff is great but there are other parts which could be better. It’s almost as if they want to know what direction to go in, but are tempted by numerous directions, taking the edge way from the final product.

One thing The Guns know how to do is produce a really up-tempo, energetic songs. This is where the band is as its best, with the powerful constant driving in “All Aboard” and “Answers.” The latter flaunting a reminiscent late 90s college rock vibe. This driving tempo really helps the band to pull off other devices well, such as an energetic duet in “Treacle and Ice.” Giving the chorus a real kick and solidifying their undoubted energy and passion. There are some nice hooks throughout the EP, mixed with the gang vocals in the breakdown of “Miss-

Unfortunately, when the band moves away from the energetic and pulsating sound, ‘Fuck The Demon Outta Me’ goes off the boil a little. It’s especially noticeable when the band slows things down.

‘Stranger Than You’ really highlights this, it never really gets going and seems underwhelming when compared to some of the livelier songs on the EP. Meanwhile, ‘Voodoo Boogie’ has a southern rock vibe.

But the mixture of a slow beat, powerful vocals and echoing guitars doesn’t quite gel together, or sound as convincing as it could be. However, The Guns can pull off different sounds sometimes with the calm, bluesy first half of ‘Daughter of a Bad Man’ countered by an explosive finish, creating a nice contrast that keeps the listener interested until the end.

THANKS MUM out NOW // SELF RELEASED Review: Kevin Barnes Cardiff’s Jacob Eynon unleashes his acoustic serenades in debut four-track EP ‘Thanks Mum.’ Boasting a vocal delivery similar to that of Charlie Simpson, his brand of chilled out, lazy acoustic songs are a perfect blend for quiet winter afternoons. Eynon bellows through innocent, upfront, life affirming lyrics in an assured manner.

‘Fuck The Demon Outta Me’ may have its ups and downs, but this EP is certainly a solid effort from The Guns. Listeners will find a wide mix of sounds on here. The main energetic, dynamic sound that The Guns present on the majority of songs is a good platform to build upon and will give both fans and the press something to keep an eye on in 2012.

There’s quite a mix between the four tracks. ‘Excuses’ stands out as a simple, beautifully melodic track. Contrast that with the more complex fret work of ‘Summer Nights’ and you’ve got a remarkably accomplished blend. ‘Summer Nighrs’ alone feels like a melodramatic movielike closing soundtrack. Given time, Jacob Eynon could well be one of the foremost names on the local acoustic scene.

7/10

6/10

Automatic, Super Furry Animals) to record ‘Meat and Razorblades’. With just four tracks, it is refreshing to hear that a band generally labelled as an ‘indie’ band can create such a diverse sounding EP.

A heavy indie aspect of the band shines through ‘Goodnight Soho,’ with a repeated chorus line of the same, and lyrics that would feel at home with Kelly Jones. This song will be in your head for days. Lastly, closing the EP is ‘Sex in the City,’ which opens with a slightly melancholic sound, a way of drawing us into the strikingly upbeat track. Loaded with catchy hooks of ‘Kiss Kiss, Bang Bang’ and constantly changing textures.

EP

ERIC UNSEEN

MEAT AND RAZORBLADES out NOW // SELF-RELEASED Review: Natalie Lam It cannot be denied that the first EP from a band hailed as ‘the best live band to come out of Wales’ is greatly anticipated.

This is exactly the case for Eric Unseen, teaming up with Richard Jackson (The

The punk aspect of their sound is immediately recognisable with opening track ‘I’m The King.’ Almost reminiscent of The King Blues’ ‘Under The Fog’. The minor key and syncopation techniques used make it difficult not to stop your daily activities and dance along. By contrast, ‘Meat & Razorblades’ begins in a more mellow direction, yet is filled with extra orchestration and vocals, including adventurous use of brass instruments.

Overall producing a track with prominent elements of folk, a prime example of originality within new Welsh music.

Having toured with the likes of Ocean Colour Scene and Stiff Little Fingers, Eric Unseen have gained a loyal fan base that will not cease to grow. With the benefit of a fresh sounding EP to hand, this band can do nothing less than impress.

9/10

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REVIEWS EP

KILL IT WITH FIRE

we’re not coming back your way out NOW // HANG TIGHT RECORDS Review: Richard Meyrick Kill It With Fire! is a Pop-Punk band with an attitude and their new EP ‘We’re Not Coming Back Your Way’ shows that they are certainly a band to look out for.

Opening track ‘Afterparty’ kicks us straight into the chorus, which is filled with catchy hooks and an addictive synth line. It must be noted that Kill It With Fire! have released a video to accompany ‘Afterparty’, so for all intents and purposes ‘Afterparty’ can be seen as the “release” on ‘We’re Not Coming Back Your Way.’ Kill It

EP

boy set sail

WE’RE ALMOST THERE out NOW // i am mighty records Review: Martin Izzard

Being a huge fan of pop-punk music, I am constantly answering the question: ‘how can you listen to bands who all sound the same?’ My answer is always; ‘why does everyone insist that each new band have to break ground with their music?’

I am happy to listen to bands who are really tight and excel at what they do.

Enter Boy Set Sail. This four piece Newport-based pop-punk band burst onto the scene with their 5 track EP, ‘You’re

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With Fire’s sound is reminiscent of recent breakthrough hardcore/pop-punk bands like Four Year Strong, Set Your Goals and The Wonder Years. There’s even a guest appearance from Pook of Blackpool poppunkers Me Vs Hero on the track ‘Ales, Fails and Whale Tails.’

EP

HOT DAMN / TAG YOUR TARGETS

With all the chugging guitar riffs and catchy hooks, I can’t but feel there’s going to be a mammoth beatdown around the corner. But that, there isn’t. That’s not to take anything away from ‘We’re Not Coming Back Your Way,’ as I think that this EP is one of the best EP’s to come from a local act for quite some time!

The brilliantly titled ‘We Don’t Need Fireworks To Look Good’ is a track that has pride of place as the EP closer, and what a track it is! Easily my personal favourite on ‘We’re Not Coming Back Your Way.’ Drew’s opening line “this town ain’t big enough for the both of us” followed by “that’s what she said” had me at the start.

Although there is no innuendo there, they still put “that’s what she said” into a song, and that’s a winner in my books!

Overall, this EP is a really good example of what the Welsh music scene can produce. So, if you’re a fan of pop-punk with a bite then Kill It With Fire! is definitely a band you should be checking out.

9/10 Almost there.’ They were picked up by I Am Mighty Records before releasing the EP, on the strength of ‘Rewind.’ This track is an absolute staple of punk rock music, with a guitar led intro and catchy chorus.

Like the other songs on the EP, it has elements which really show off the technical abilities of the band.

Throughout the EP, there are plenty of treats. From off the cuff drum fills on ‘All These Things’ to the impressive backing vocals on ‘Believe.’ The guitar exerts confidence throughout and sits perfectly with the bass, marching through each track. Drumming in pop-punk bands is commonly attacked for being predicable, but each track oozes a cock-sure beat, with no shortage in style. All of this is topped off with vocals much edgier and rougher than your typical pop-punk band, they provide an energy to the EP that can’t be faked in production.

split ep out NOW // hang tight records Review: Martin Izzard

When it comes to a split release, you have to be careful with a number of things. It must involve two bands who are of the same genre, but who have a different enough style to tell apart. One band must not overshadow the other, making half of the EP obsolete, and songs must be carefully selected to show the audiences what the band is about, in less time. Hang Tight Records have released two bands on this 4 track EP, namely Tag Your Targets and locals, Hot Damn. Both punk rock bands somewhere between the styles of The Wonder Years and Man Overboard.

Both bands immediately tell us who they are and what they are about, with the EP is fast paced and aggressive from start to finish. Both bands are technically and musically on top form, with Tag Your Targets slightly less charged as Hot Damn.

Sadly, Hang Tight Records have put two bands together who people could mix up.

The Hot Damn tracks could well be Tag Your Targets tracks and vice versa, but that could be more to do with this split than a true reflection of the bands.

All these things add up to a band who are showing their genre just what it can do.

So, if I were you I’d keep your eyes and ears on guard for Boy Set Sail.

That being said, there is an energy to the whole EP which progresses right the way through. Tag Your Targets’ ‘Rollin Hills, Broad Skies’ is a testament to catchy choruses and melodic verses. Hot Damn’s ‘Loyalties’ has an old school aggression that any punk band should be proud of.

Just from listening to this EP, I can imagine a show with either of these bands being an absolute killer, surely with every person in the venue on their feet. This EP is well worth a listen and is an indication that pop-punk is definitely on its way back to the top.

9/10

7/10

REVIEWS SINGLE

single

single

PYRAMINDS

THE ONLY WAY IS MERTHYR

a modern day epic

JETS TO ZURICH

START! START!

man of the hour

out 11 Nov 2011 // self-released

out NOW // POINTLESS RECORDS

out 14 nov 2011 // self-released

Review: Martin Izzard

Review: Andrew Roach

Review: Kevin Barnes

With certain genres of music being as they are these days, a lot of songs described as ‘catchy’ are of a pop-related genre. South Wales based band, ‘Jets To Zurich’ have turned that idea on it’s head.

The release of their new single ‘Pyramids,’ from their second album, has seen ‘Jets To Zurich’ gain considerable recognition.

Once ranked in the ten worst places to live in the UK, Merthyr Tidfil has taken a lot of stick publicly. Start! Start! have taken this on-board, producing a track based around the image. It has it all; screaming, rapping, synths, and a guitar solo for good measure.

Having once been involved with Man of the Hour, it’s difficult to not feel a connection with what they’re trying to do.

New single ‘A Modern Day Epic’ is a bold statement of where this band see themselves.

The song opens with a meaty guitar riff, which wouldn’t be out of place in a Rage Against The Machine song. This then carries into a strong vocal melody, belting out the lyrics in an highly convincing manner. The chorus bears a somewhat simple, but incredibly catchy hook, demonstrating the musical talent of the entire band. Having already beaten the likes of the Arctic Monkeys to the number one spot in an alternative chart, while this alt rock band may not be everyones taste, they are certain to make noise much further afield than South Wales.

6/10

DEMO

MOMENTS BEFORE OBLIVION Review: Martin Izzard When Hardcore metal is done properly, it can be huge. Combining some incredibly heavy guitars and vocals that Parkway Drive would be proud of, Moments

The song has its moments. There are some funny quips in the rapped verses, (teenage pregnancies and those on the dole - likely to raise a smile), and the main chorus is catchy enough to get people nodding along until the end. However, at almost 5 minutes, the song is a little on the long side. Whilst the look at MT’s problems has some funny lines, the rapping can grate at times, lacking insight.

This track hasn’t got a serious bone in its body. Most listeners will appreciate the jokes and quips about the town, and the band’s humour. Others will look elsewhere for quips about society.

Epic is just what it is. The song is on a constant build towards a crescendo as a picked guitar riff is gradually joined, and amplified by drums and bass. As an instrumental, the track is glorious.

Unfortunately, the vocals are a little disjointed from the rest of it. The melodies play it safe, but there seems to be a bit lacking in depth and production has isolated the vocals - putting unecessary scrutiny on the delivery.

Overall, it’s a promising track, and if Man of the Hour can tap into the potential they clearly have in abundance, expect this to be the start of something new.

5/10

6/10

Before Oblivion’s demo track, ‘Drag Me Down’ is surely about to propel them into the local music scene. They possess a seamless ability to bounce from metal chugging verses and breakdowns to melodic choral vocals. With a very specific formula similar to A Day To Remember

songs, it would be easy to fall into a trap of the genre, but Moments Before Oblivion are bringing something fresh to the sound as they set out on their musical journey.

7/10

NEW RELEASE?

live show?

IF YOU MAKE MUSIC IN ANY CAPACITY, AND ARE BASED IN SOUTH WALES - WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU.

IF YOU MAKE MUSIC IN ANY CAPACITY, AND ARE BASED IN SOUTH WALES - WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU.

SYNECTIC MAGAZINE IS DEDICATED TO AIRING THE VERY BEST LOCAL NEW MUSIC. IF YOU HAVE A RELEASE ANYTIME BETWEEN NOW AND THE END OF MARCH 2012, AND IT’S READY FOR REVIEW BY MID-JANUARY, CONTACT US ON THE BELOW EMAIL ADDRESS SO WE CAN INCLUDE IT FOR REVIEW IN ISSUE 2!

SYNECTIC MAGAZINE IS DEDICATED TO AIRING THE VERY BEST LOCAL NEW MUSIC. IF YOU’RE PLAYING A LIVE DATE BETWEEN NOW AND JANUARY 24TH 2012, AND CAN PROVIDE GUESTLIST AND/OR PHOTOPASS CONTACT US ON THE BELOW EMAIL ADDRESS SO WE CAN INCLUDE IT FOR REVIEW IN ISSUE 2!

BAND-SUBMISSIONS@SYNECTICMAG.CO.UK

press@SYNECTICMAG.CO.UK 43

LISTINGS nov 2011 - jan 2012 EVENTS 16-20 November

Soundtrack International Film and Music Festival Cardiff www.soundtrackfilmfestival.com

(preview on opposite page)

CLUBNIGHTS Weekly / Tuesday / 22:30

Hammertime

90’s club night Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Weekly / Wednesday / 22:30

Listen Up!

Indie Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff Weekly / Thursday / 21:00

HAMMER’D

monthly / 2nd friday / 21:00

exit ten

NICE N’ SLEAZY

sunday 6th / 19:00

goth, new-wave & more bogiez, cardiff MONTHLY / 3RD FRIDAY / 21:00

manowar

MONTHLY / 4TH FRIDAY / 21:00

wednesday 9th / 19:00

METAL & BURLESQUE BOGIEZ, CARDIFF

the globe, cardiff thursday 10th / 19:00

CADENCE METAL CARNIVAL

GIGS

Indie & ROCK NIGHT SIN CITY, SWANSEA Weekly / SATURDAY / 22:00

DIRTY POP

arctic monkeys

great hall 2, cardiff

w/ the vaccines cardiff motorpoint arena

sunday 13th / 19:30

wednesday 2nd / 19:30

cf10, cardiff

bogiez, cardiff

friday 18th / 19:00 soundtrack festival

reaper in sicily w/ colours of one the globe, cardiff friday 4th / 19:00

fozzy

w/ jett black cf10, cardiff

rock, metal & alternative bogiez, cardiff monthly / 1st friday / 21:00

tombstone

classic rock & metal bogiez, cardiff

cardiff coal exchange

futures

hobos, bridgend sunday 20th / 19:30 soundtrack festival

dimmu borgir

great hall 2, cardiff

cardiff motorpoint arena

w/ anti vigilante, tyrannosaurus alan bogiez, cardiff

sunday 6th / 19:00

BOGIEZ

guillemots

monday 21st / 19:00

Weekly / SATURDAY / 22:00

Weekly / Wednesday / 22:30

lacuna coil

saturday 5th / 18:30

incubus

Indie, ROCK’N’ROLL & CLASSICS Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff (UPSTAIRS)

solus, cardiff

madina lake

ELECTRO POP & DISCO Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff (DOWNSTAIRS)

VINYL VENDETTA’S

alkaline trio

TUESDAY 1ST / 18:00

thursday 3rd / 19:00 ep launch show

FACE/OFF

los campesinos

friday 11th / 19:00

Weekly / FRIDAY / 22:30

Weekly / FRIDAY / 22:30

great hall, cardiff

NOVEMBER

blackfoot

MIX-UP, ALL GENRES Clwb Ifor Bach, Cardiff

w/ fei comodo, never means maybe clwb ifor bach, cardiff

GLAM METAL BOGIEZ, CARDIFF

CONTEMPORARY ROCK & METAL BOGIEZ, CARDIFF

XEROX

tuesday 8th / 19:00

dark party

manowar

great hall, cardiff

carcer city

w/ against the flood, the soulless bogiez, cardiff monday 7th / 19:00

arcane roots

w/ 22, solutions clwb ifor bach, cardiff

voodoo glow skills wednesday 23rd / 19:00

alter bridge

w/ black stone cherry, theory of a deadman cardiff motorpoint arena

frank turner & the sleeping souls w/ against me!, emily barker, the red clay halo newport centre thursday 24th / 19:30

anti-nowhere league bogiez, cardiff

monday 28th / 19:30

twin atlantic cf10, cardiff

44

tuesday 29th / 19:30

sunday 11th / 18:00

clwb ifor bach, cardiff

w/ i am hope, colours of one, our tomorrow, coppola hobos, bridgend

wolfsbane

wednesday 30th / 19:30

flogging molly

clwb ifor bach, cardiff monday 28th / 19:30

twin atlantic

cf10, cardiff wednesday 30th / 19:30

kasabian

cardiff motorpoint arena

december

Thursday 1st / 19:30

ginger wildheart & friends w/ oat, exit international sin city, swansea FRIDAY 2ND / 19:30

warbringer bogiez, cardiff

saturday 3rd / 19:00

the red jumpsuit apparatus & hawthorne heights cf10, cardiff

xerath

blitz kids

/ 19:00 rocksound tour 2011

every time i die w/ spycatcher great hall 2, cardiff tuesday 13th / 19:00

straight lines vs. tiger please vs. cuba cuba clwb ifor bach, cardiff thursday 29th / 19:00

hondo maclean

clwb ifor bach, cardiff friday 30th / 19:00

the blackout

clwb ifor bach, cardiff

january 2012

thursday 19th / 19:00

asking alexandria solus, cardiff

friday 20th / 18:00

gwar

w/ intensive square, fourth autumn bogiez, cardiff

w/ viking skull, sister sin city, swansea

sunday 4th / 19:30

thursday 26th / 19:00

i am the avalanche

canterbury

w/ hostage calm, apologies, i have none cf10, cardiff

w/ proxies clwb ifor bach, cardiff

monday 5th / 19:30

sunday 29th / 19:00

w/ robot safari glee club, cardiff

great hall, cardiff

electric six

all time low

tuesday 5th / 19:30

the swellers

clwb ifor bach, cardiff

planning something?

if you’re planning an event of any kind between february 1st and april 30th 2012, send us the details and we will list it here - press@synecticmag.co.uk

Soundtrack international film & music festival cardiff / NEWPORT 16- 20 NOVEMBER preview by laura kenny After taking a break from the event scene last year, partly due to funding shake-ups, the Soundtrack International Film and Music Festival is back on the 16th-20th November.

The Festival is based in Cardiff but this year will also branch out to Newport, allowing as many of you as possible to indulge in the cinematic and musical delights on offer.

Tickets are now available online.

Over the last four years Soundtrack has been graced by a number of innovative minds within the music and film industries. From guests such as Danny Boyle and Oscar winning composer Gabriel Yared, alongside DJ and composer David Holmes, actor Jonathan Pyrce and Velvet Underground founder John Cale, who mesmerised audiences with his album ‘Paris 1919.’ Equally as impressive, if not more, Danny Boyle screened the second ever showing of ‘Slum Dog Millionaire’ as the opening night film.

We have a little peek as to what to expect this year. The festival will be opened by Steve McQueen’s ‘Shame.’ Artists such as Mercury-nominated Guillemots will also be featured with improvised sets at the Coal Exchange and to contrast with this, as Stanley Kubrick’s ‘A Clockwork Orange’ celebrates its 40th year anniversary the festival will give it the creative credit it deserves and will be featured between an exclusive exhibition of documents from the Kubrick Archive and a Discussion Panel. Comedians will also be featured throughout this spectacularly diverse event, showcasing Adam Buxton who will have us in stitches with his show; ‘Bug: The Evolution of Music Video’ that sold out for all five nights at the Edinburgh Festival, and will enchant Cardiff for the first time.

The Soundtrack International Film and Music Festival focusses on an ethos of bringing music and film together in an exciting and engaging way, that aims to captivate audiences of all ages and interests. So grab your ticket and check the Soundtrack website. www.soundtrackfilmfestival.com

45

q&a

THE GREEN ROOMS Being among the newer venues in South Wales, The Green Rooms in Treforest has quickly gone about establishing itself as one of the most popular, friendly and comfortable places to play and rehearse in the region.

Securing itself as the base of Metal 2 The Masses in South Wales & The West, it’s a venue which is really punching above its weight.

Interview by Richard Meyrick Could you tell us in your own words what you guys at The Green Rooms do?

We provide rehearsal rooms and a live showcasing venue for upcoming and established bands and musicians. We pride ourselves on providing clean, tidy rooms with well maintained equipment and the added bonus of a relaxed, licensed lounge where bands can meet up before and after their practise to have a beer or two!

We also stock strings, sticks, batteries and all the other stuff you may need for your rehearsal.

What made you open the green rooms?

We trekked around Cambodia, Vietnam and Thailand for our honeymoon. Whilst we were over there we vowed never to plan anything ever again after the wedding. However we got inspired in Cambodia, came back and started our own business. We always wanted to do something we both loved, which is music. We felt that a good way to do this was to open rehearsal rooms and a live venue all under the same roof. We also get a lot out of trying to be useful and we like helping bands in any way that we can, opening The Green Rooms gave us a good opportunity to do that!

How did you come up with the name?

It just popped into our heads, it seemed like a good idea and we couldn’t think of anything better. We should have come up with a better story for this really!

Why did you choose Treforest?

46

We chose Treforest because it’s a bit of a hub of musical talent and bands from around the Valleys. It’s easy for people to get to by car, train or bus, we have good parking facilities and its less than 10mins from Cardiff city centre, Caerphilly and its just off the A470.

What was your aim at the start and has it changed?

Our aim was to provide really good facilities and to give bands and musicians the opportunity to play live in a comfortable environment. I don’t think anything has changed about our aims, but we have certainly learned a lot.

What type of feedback have you had from the bands and artists that have practiced/ gigged here?

Really, really good. The rehearsal rooms are really busy which is a good sign and people always seem to enjoy playing the venue. We always seem to attract a friendly crowd and the atmosphere is always pleasant and relaxed.

You’ve had some insane shows at The Green Rooms, what’s it like putting on shows like your recent Metal 2 The Masses gigs?

Wicked, the support and feedback from the Metal 2 the Masses shows were phenomenal. In fact it was so good that we have obtained the Wales and West Metal 2 the Masses competition for 2012. It’s always really enjoyable to put on your own shows, that turn out to be a success.

We also run quick sets nights which are also great fun, with a good turn out and seem to be becoming increasingly popu-

lar. They are short sets nights that are mixed genre, it’s essentially an organised plug and play or sometimes organised chaos (depending on how you look at it!). They encourage bands that wouldn’t normally be in the same room to network and give the crowd an opportunity to enjoy varied types of music. We also put on some free food so its more of a relaxed party atmosphere Other than practice space and putting on shows, is there anything else you do to help local bands?

We have learned a lot over the course of the last two years and try and pass on as much information and help as we possibly can. Nothing is too much trouble for us and we like to help!

Are there any future plans on The Green Rooms front?

Watch this space, who knows! Its been such a massive thing for both of us over the last two years and certainly starting a business in the recession was a major leap of faith, we are always open to new ideas and if anyone wants to approach us with anything we are certainly open to suggestion!

How can bands contact you for a show or to hire practice space?

Easy one, We are available by phone, email, text and Facebook. All our details including directions are available on our website. You can also see a video walk-though of the venue and rehearsal rooms. www.thegreenroomsonline.co.uk

what did you think? we pride ourselves on delivering the very best local content through the magazine, and we’d love your feedback and this issue, as well as any suggestions for future issues.

Contact our editor

kev@synecticmag.co.uk

next time in-depth coverage and analysis of the soundtrack international film and music festival valentines day gift guide - all the very best of local trade for that special occasion the best new releases and live music coverage along with all the usual creatives

Issue 2 Available Monday 31st January 2012

Are you a writer? photographer? designer? join the team! we’re always interested in working with new staff. interns required in the above fields, we’re always looking for people to grow and improve our team

contact

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