Bad Taste Magazine: Issue 4 by Timothy Ngwena

BAD TASTE UNIVERSITY OF YORK CAMPUS MAGAZINE ISSUE 4 SPRING ’08

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BAD TASTE

Contents

Editors Duncan Piper & Missy Christey Graphics Editor Timothy Ngwena

Lifestyle Good Taste by Judith Connolly & Andy Young Survival of the Freshest by Duncan Piper, Alice Bushell & Hannah Elliott The Post-graduate by Matthew Grum There’s Something About Venice by Matthew Maynard You should get out Moor by Oliver Blair An exploration of North Yorkshire The Fragrance Revolution by Sam Hogton York’s Little Gem by Matthew Grum

4-5 6-7 15 16-17 28-29 44 50-51

Arts

York Carnival by Duncan Piper Inside Photoshop by Missy Christey Graphical Book Review by Marius Karabaczek Rubber Duck Theatre Company by Sherine El-Sayed Rejuvenation - artwork by Toby Roberts The Art of the Underground: Beneath the Skin by Jo Ajayi-Majebi Cruel and Tender by Rina Nalumoso & Cheryl Gallacher This term’s Drama Soc highlight The Perfect Fiasco: A Pantomime by Matt Griﬃn Behind the scenes of Peter Pan The State of Michael Billington by Matt Griﬃn

8 10-12 14 25 26-27 32-33 35 36-37 38

Fashion Fashionable Foresight by Lauren Clancy & Alice Albery A look at 2007’s Clothes Show Live Jean Spotting by Angeline Benge Brief Encounter What makes Britain so eﬀortlessly cool? by Nina Sabey I shop, therefore I am

13 18 19-24 30-31 39-43

Music Misogyny and R ‘n’ B by Kristy Harper & Sophie Harrison Noah and the Whale by Tom Bishai York Wasteland by Emma Robson Interview with Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man by Helen Nianias Indie-view by Helen Nianias

45 46 47 48 49

Photography & Graphics Matthew Grum

Head of Marketing Oliver Blair Good Taste Editor Judith Connolly Fashion Editors Kate Bevan & Sarah Graham Performing Arts Editor Charlie Bruce Music Editor Helen Nianias Sub-Editor Lois Ashton Administrator Ola Jeglinska Publicity and Distribution Coordinators Kate Reeves and Jake Delaney Graphics Assistants Phill Smith and Marius Karabaczek Good Taste Assistant Andy Young Contributors Iain Smith, Jennifer McLarney, Alice Bushell, Hannah Elliott, Lauren Clancy, Alice Albery, Matthew Maynard, Antonia Shaw, Louisa Parry, Clare Harrison, David Coupland, Alex Forsyth, Sherine El-Sayed, Toby Roberts, Nina Sabey, Jo Ajayi-Majebi, Rina Nalumoso, Cheryl Gallacher, Matt Griﬃn, Hannah Welch, Kristy Harper, Angeline Benge, Sam Hogton, Sophie Harrison, Tom Bishai, Emma Robson, Tom Hole,Charlie Elliot, Nick Scargill, Elizabeth Cox, Bethany Marret With special thanks to: National Railway Museum, Joy clothing (Coppergate Centre, York, YO1 9NY) and One clothing (Peter Lane, York, YO1 8SW) The views expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of YUSU or of the editorial team. Every care is taken to ensure all information published is correct at the time of print. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited. Bad Taste Magazine cannot be held responsible for information provided by advertisers.

Cover by Matthew Grum If you would like to get involved with BAD TASTE please email info@badtastemagazine.co.uk. Alternatively, visit our website at badtastemagazine.co.uk

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By J And udith Co y Yo ung nolly and Des ign Ngw ed: McL ena a by Tim n arn o ey d Jeni thy ffer

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coolest Easily the Fridays shop on the reaky a Shambles, Fstereotypical image of r. knocks the shop out of the wate ird collectibles the brim with the we toys Crammed toul, from Tim Burton the and wonderf ars paraphernalia for es of and Star Wor, to beautiful canvasiss a avid collect ite film star, don’t m your favour s magical store. 0 trip to thi , York. 01904 63790 23Shambles

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Step back in time with can dysays.co.uk, cllothing and a treasure tro accessories fr ve of vintage om the 1920 colours to ﬁt s to the 1980 this season’s n s. Find bright u-rave style o which radiate r something m s original 50s ore elegant glamour. Aw uniq i ue pieces, th ash with barg e site has som ains and ething for eve no excuse no r y o t to splash ou ne - there’s t in this delec din’s cave. can ta b le Aladdysays.co.uk

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Tailored looks are back in fashion, particularly the suit and the shirt, and fine-knit classics such as the cardigan, the tank top and the V-neck. Tailoring can also be retro couture-inspired or simply minimal and well-cut with few but perfect details. Sport’s influence is evident in details like hoods, drawstrings and Velcro fastenings and materials such as nylon, polyester and sweatshirt cotton. H&M have used Oriental, Asian and African inspiration to form a modern ethnic look that can be combined with tailored and sports-inspired pieces. Think 20s Oriental with patterned and embellished shirts, tunics and dresses, and linen or khaki separates. African patterns on couture classics, metallic prints, and finishes on tailoring and jersey are contrasting combinations that work. Photographer - Peter Gehrke

rie s Monsoon Men posi ons itself at the higher end of the high street offering a range of clothes and accessories made from quality materials but offered at reasonable prices. The range for men was only started by Monsoon in 2004 and is approaching its 4th year with its latest season collec on dis nguishes itself from its compe on by offering unusual style with quirky features. Accompanying the main season collec on are a range of accessories ranging from messenger bags to fragrance. Monsoon Men can be found in the lower level of Monsoon in Coney Street. The collec on starts at £12 for a T-shirt

Beautify ify yyour look anytime, anywhere, with our swank little kit of beauty secrets. Justine case contains Benefit’s favorite one-hit wonders for beauty emergencies: some kinda gorgeous for flawless complexion; benetint for rosy lips & cheeks; california kissin’ for a bright smile & minty breath; and let’s not forget eyecon for fading action day or night. Available from leading department stores, Benefit boutiques, and Boots nationwide for £22.50. Visit www.benefitcosmetics. co.uk to see the Benefit collection.

Survival of the Freshest ragamuffin. Milk became too valuable to be left in a fridge and instead was remember first year. I remember the stored in a plastic bag, hanging outside conjugal love that everyone showed my bedroom window. one another, tolerating each other’s quirks and tics. Everyone would live I got angry. I made a poster to try and out of each other’s room, watching keep order. It failed. I got ridiculed films and gossiping into the night. We (quite understandably) and the said would play pool together and kitchen poster got nobbed in retaliation. parties would keep the floor enterSome advice? tained. How idyllic it was. Duncan Piper

And now? Here we are: it’s the middle day of the middle term, and it’s all getting a little depressing. The sky is still grey and York’s nightclubs are getting just too predictable. Something is changing.

You cannot afford to care – most don’t. You cannot change people, so I instead tolerate them and make your had existence in halls just about bearloved able. To begin? Eat well. It makes the living in most overwhelming difference, if not halls, to health, then to morale. Alice and until Hannah will show you how. that is, this day last year. I lost it. No one would ever wash up after themselves, everyone would steal your food and the shameless sound of sex down the corridor would actually lead to gathering crowds. You couldn’t wash your hands upon leaving the loo for a lack of sinks. Sleep would Alice Bushell be impeded by French bangers going never used to cook. Baby Bellings off at 4am and early morning fire drills are not my friends. Instead, I had a each week. One memorable morning, I unscrewed the lid of a (left sealed) mum and my mum, like a lot of mums, carton of orange juice, only to is the best cook in the world. She’s the find it had been drunk everything-from-scratch, fresh ingreand filled with dients, fully-stocked-pantry Nigella water by type. So why did I need to be one also? some Compounded by my first term of hangovers, I would fail to cook until I was ratty. Anyway, even then,

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thieving housemates ate my (almost inedible) food. It was decided that something had to be done – a cooking group to nurture my limited talent was to be joined. But that didn’t last long, and instead I met Hannah – a far more tolerant nurturer. Hannah’s naturally a good cook and as I wanted to get rid of that first term’s “festive” weight, I was to take a leaf out of her culinary book. For everyone, the dark, the cold, the 9.15s, the hangovers and the rain make eating well and getting your five-a-day so important – give yourself a fighting chance against the bugs that descend upon York. Between us, we’ve hopefully found an idiot-proof means to do so. Cooking should be fun. Plan your meals and you won’t spend a

fortune on food at Costcutter – food, which may well be unused. But still keep an open mind/eye so you don’t miss that amazing deal. Try shopping around (a favourite of mine is the grocery store on Heslington Road that does a student discount). Hit the town.

The key to culinary success in student digs is to start with the basics. Food essentials include pesto, basil, oregano, the spices tu-

meric and paprika, bacon, cheese, garlic, onions, tins of soup, tomatoes, chickpeas or butterbeans, a curry in a jar and a good cooking oil. Basic equipment (always worth getting parents to contribute ﬁnancially for these) includes a good deep frying pan or wok, a cheese grater, a blender, scales and a colander. The creation of “Slop”

equipped, disgusting dive is daunting, but it should not put you oﬀ cooking.

Slop got its name from my astute housemate, Hannah Welch, who claimed after eating the culinary delight that, “well it’s just red and sloppy isn’t it!” – a new age of cuisine was born.

I told Hannah about my top-notch butterbean and chorizo stew. Hannah was like, “yeah, I make that – we call it Slop”. Fine, “Slop” is amazing

If you’re going veggy, cook the courgettes ﬁrst, along with the spices. Once the courgettes are golden brown and a little soft, add the peppers. It is vital that you keep moving the food with a spatula, or else it will burn. 5 – 6 mins after putting the vegetables in with the cooked meat, pour on two tins of chopped tomatoes, put on a mid heat and leave to simmer. Drain and add the chick peas (they only need 5 minutes).

and absolutely foolproof. It involves the minimum of washing-up and can be tarted-up with king prawns, sausage or chorizo for a dinner party, or dressed-down just Method: for you, freezing the remnants for a rainy day. Over to her, then, for a Roughly chop everything up. quick explanation. Put a tablespoon of olive oil (or sunflower oil, it’s ofHannah Elliot ten cheaper!) into your o, Slop was created in my first frying pan and whack term as a mere fresher. I made the up the heat. As soon as key mistake of believing, like many the oil starts to bubble others, that £1000 was a lot of money or hiss, drop in the diced and that I was rich. I soon realised onions, and keep them that buying all my meals from M&S moving! was the best way to go about becoming bankrupt and I had to face the hellhole If you’re having any meat, dice it and that was my C-Block kitchen! drop it in the frying pan too, and before Seventeen people shar- the meat has formed a seal (a cooked ing one poorly outer skin) sprinkle in the tumeric and the chilli powder, so that the flavours gets into the meat!

Taste! Tasting is very important. My mum told me so. Give it a decent pinch of salt and ground pepper. Don’t be afraid of adding more chilli if you like it HOT! Remove from the heat and serve with a dollop of natural yoghurt.

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Freeze the leftovers and it will last you forever (although, only freeze if you cooked the chicken from fresh!) 7

to change. Come the May bank holiday weekend, everyone will be pulled out of their beds on Sunday morning for a day of incomparable jollity as York

image of people from all sects of society holding hands as they engage in a universal embrace, but I’m convinced that through dance, music, drama, workshops and a massive By Duncan Piper Carnival shakes up our historic and parade which will snake through the supposedly peaceful city in a whirlwind city, this really will be the cultural ve tended to avoid the city centre of cultural celebration. date for York’s calendar. come weekends, be it during the day or at night. Daylight attracts York Carnival is a massive collaboration There is so much going on in York. On frustrating and dawdling swarms of between a group of volunteers studying campus, hundreds of creative societies tourists to York, whilst the evening at the University and the City of York get not nearly enough exposure. In calls local residents to hit the clubs Council. Founded in 2004 by Music the city, organisations like Space 109 and bars. We’re not invited so instead, student, Jessica Brand, its overarching (a community centre for children in we hibernate in our rooms and nurse aim was to build upon the social linkage the Walmgate area) host arts and the headache that we’ve acquired over between the city and the university – crafts workshops each week. There the past week. something that has always been rather are middle-aged women who expose weak (some residents feel that we just their midriﬀs whilst belly dancing in This, however, is set come to their city and abuse it for three the city, and there are church rock years, throw up on their doorstep, and groups and community artists who leave). all get on with their own thing. To get every grain of artistic talent from the If this is really what they think, it’s a whole of campus and York together in massive shame. I really don’t think one day would be truly amazing, and we’re all that bad. Hopefully York it will be. Get out your diaries. Carnival will go some of the way to reduce this sundering – an event York Carnival: Sunday 4th May in the through which schools, community City centre. groups, OAPS, after school clubs, professional performers, residents and To get involved, ﬁnd out more or to university students can come together volunteer, email with a common aim: to have fun. contact@yorkcarnival.org or visit www.yorkcarnival.org Good lord, how clichéd all this sounds. To top it, the York Carnival Weekend (which is to include Dance York and Music Live as well) has a theme for this year’s event: ‘Around the World’. I have an

I’

UNIVERSITY OF YORK CAMPUS MAGAZINE Here is an opportunity: run the University of York’s Campus Magazine. The following posts will be up for grabs in Week 5: Editor Deputy Editor Managing Director Graphics Editor Head of Photography Features Coordinator Good Taste Editor Fashion Editor (x2) Performing Arts Editor Music Editor Web Master Sub-Editor Administrator Advertising Manager (x2) Publicity and Distribution Manager (x2) Graphics Assistant (x2) Good Taste Assistant

All you need to do is: Choose to stand for one of the above Email info@badtastemagazine.co.uk to register your interest or ﬁnd out more Come to our Bad Taste AGM on Friday Week 5 (keep an eye on www.badtastemagazine.co.uk for the time/ venue) Give us a little schpeel about why you are running Get voted in and become an integral part to one of campus’ most prominent media outlets

Inside Photoshop By Missy Christey

ost people who pick up a magazine have no idea what goes into creating the perfect picture. Missy Christey talks to Matthew Grum, Bad Taste’s Photography Editor and Photoshop guru, to uncover the mystery. Q. Can you explain how long this particular photo took to ‘do up’ and what processes you went through to get the desired effect? A. In this particular image I was aiming for impact. The entire skin area was smoothed and the effect toned down to retain some of the original texture. Prior to this, any imperfections and hairs were edited out manually allowing me to keep more of the original skin. The eyes are an important part of any portrait and in addition to tidying up eyelashes etc., I enlarged the pupils – psychologists have demonstrated that this increases the perceived level of attractiveness and veracity. Colours were adjusted and a soft-focus effect was applied with a particular blending mode in order to emphasise the lighting. Finally, a selective defocus was used to concentrate attention on the face. The amount of time varies greatly depending on the image. The images shot for the fashion section have fantastic hair and make-up to start with so it’s more a case of refining what is already there.

Q. Improving the clarity of images is understandably an important process as a photographer. But what are your moral/ethical views towards ‘photoshopping’ or ‘doing up’ photos for the sake of

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beauty? Is it a necessary procedure? A. Most people see the camera as a sort of scientiﬁc instrument which accurately records the world around us – something which is simply untrue. The instant you open the shutter the angle, lighting and zoom will combine to distort the resulting photograph, meaning there is no ‘unprocessed’ image. Photoshop merely widens those possibilities. In life, glances are ﬂeeting whereas you could stare at a picture for hours. There will be many things that you wouldn’t otherwise have chance to

or getting access to buildings out of hours to do what you like. You also get to meet a lot of people, again some of whom you wouldn’t ordinarily speak to. I don’t mean celebrities, but genuinely interesting and important people; Greg Dyke, the Archbishop of York, the manager of Ziggy’s! I’d say the least enjoyable thing is the English weather! It’s the one thing that is completely out of your control. The Lazy Daze picnic scene was shot in February. We were working with about ﬁve minute windows of sunshine where we had to get the models out, posed, and back in again before they froze, all without touching the ground with their shoes! Even in the summer it’s not much better – we had to rearrange a time for the Capoeira shoot (Flip York) in the last issue due to a massive downpour and then, on our second attempt, the glorious sunshine we’d had all morning was promptly interrupted by a huge grey cloud which hung over us for the entire duration! Q. What is the most diﬃcult task you can perform when photoshopping an image? A. Generally it would be removing unwanted objects from a scene. These are often unavoidable. For Issue 2, I had to remove a plastic sheet from underneath a picnic rug used as a prop in the Lazy Daze outdoor fashion shoot – the rug had been borrowed from a shop and had to go back in pristine condition!

notice, and that’s why the image has to photographer? be ﬂawless – better than real life. A. The most enjoyable thing I agree that this sets an impossible is getting do things and go places Sometimes you get lucky, and you standard to live up to. I think the that you wouldn’t ordinarily be able can just paint over it with a constant more people know about what goes to, whether that’s going backstage shade or texture. However in some on to produce the images they see, the less they will feel pressured to achieve the same standard. After all, it’s not a slice of life – it’s an image designed to be looked at. At the risk of sounding pretentious, it’s a piece of art. Q. What is the most and least enjoyable thing about being a BAD TASTE N04

cases, especially when the object is large, you have to actually draw in what was behind. A good example of this was removing a tripod which was supporting the traffic cone in an image from last issue’s A Tale of Two Filmakers (my apologies to Nic for destroying the illusion of her immense strength!). The floor could just be filled in but the banister had to be recreated by copying the surrounding bars, being careful to replicate the shift in brightness across the area and the shadow, cast by the traffic-cone, on the left hand side. Q. Who is your photographer and why?

favourite

A. If I had to pick one I think it would be Chip Simons, not just for his photos but for his general attitude and complete indifference to any of the traditional rules of photography. With no experience whatsoever, he bluffed his way into working for some of the leading magazines of the day, and proceeded to shoot as if he was doing it only for himself: “Once upon a time I shot a computer big wig...and he was such an ass, I thought (and said), “you know... I don’t think people care what you look like anyway...but they do care what you say” ... so I proceeded to shoot him out of focus and as a silhouette.” of the strangest but most interesting much over detail – the most important and captivating images recorded. thing is to just be creative. Over the years his approach has He serves as useful reminder to me produced a portfolio comprising some whenever I find myself obsessing too Q. Finally, has taking photos ever got you into trouble/ been awkward or caused offence etc.? A. When it comes to people I tend to err…strongly stick to the side of caution. We seem to be living in an age of paranoia, where the default assumption is that you have some sort of shady purpose. Most of the flak I’ve received has been from being somewhere I shouldn’t – to keep things interesting you need to get away from the traditional viewpoints and climb up, over or under things. It’s not always received too happily. 12

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Fashionable Foresight By Lauren Clancy & Alice Albery

ork was getting dreary, and so we headed to one of the largest beauty and fashion events of the calendar: Clothes Show Live, Birmingham. 2007 certainly saw lots of legs. Whether they were hugged by pencil skirts, shorts, or those teeny-weeny Chanelinspired hot pants, we embraced them. But don’t snuggle back into your comfy jeans just yet, because it looks as though the leg trend is here to stay. A good excuse to prepare those legs is, of course, a good holiday. Short of that, we got into the mood with the beach section of the fashion show, which featured gorgeous cut-out swim suits, bandeau tops and huge shades. There were lots of golds, reds and royal blues, and those teeny-weeny hot pants made quite an appearance when they were teamed with tailored shirts and long cardigans. Although baring all that skin may seem a bit daunting, hair coiffed to perfection, big sunglasses and oversized accessories should be enough to fill you with the confidence of those 50’s poster girls. Sticking within the glamour era, the evening section echoed Christian Dior’s original ‘New Look’; the premiere of couture fashion. Anything goes really, as long as it’s long, sumptuous, and seductive: indulgent satins and silks in jewel-coloured tones, one-shoulder gowns or strapless empire lines, and one perfectly red-lipsticked pout. Think Ava Gardner and add your sexiest smile. Covering up a little more, the catwalk showed us glimpses of next season’s

70’s “girl-about-town” look. Hair was lived-in straight, and eyes were smoky, but not quite Kate Moss smoky. Instead, the grey-kohl eye shadow was very angular, drawing straight lines from the inner lashes outwards, rather than covering the whole eye socket. This subtle statement matched perfectly with the edge of the clothes. There was masculine, simple tailoring in beige and khaki, high-waisted ﬂared trousers, military style shorts, and boxy cropped jackets, but quirky accents were found in intricately printed tops and injections of vibrant colour. This included all sorts, from wild animal and exotic bird prints to oversized accessories and unsuspecting bright yellow piping. Although all this talk of legs and glamour sounds fun, fashion and The Clothes Show are both about individuality and the promotion of individual designers. The market stall layout means that each exhibitor needs to stand out from the crowd, and that they did, with inspiring ideas to spruce up any wardrobe. So get your old t-shirts, cardigans and jumpers and do whatever you want to them. Use buttons, and lots of them, ribbons and bows wherever you like, and stencil silks or cottons you’ve scavenged from second-hand troves. Take inspiration from the likes of Agyness Deyn, Daisy Lowe or Alice Dellal who are all in the spotlight for their own individual styles. Because in years gone by, this year, and for years to come, fashion is about creation. Dress for you, and for no one else. If you missed it, catch The Clothes Show Live 2008 this winter. -

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The Post-graduate By Matthew Grum

ost-grads. You’ve probably seen them. They’re those strange people who have finished their degree but yet are still here. For some it’s only one more year, to specialise or gain an extra qualification, or to allow more time to decide what they want to do with their lives. The others have most likely embarked upon the dark and perilous voyage in search of a mythical artefact known as the Ph.D. You know that dissertation you’re currently struggling to finish (the third years are all nodding at this point)? Well, the outcome of a Ph.D. depends solely on your thesis: one single piece of work which is the fruit of three or more years labour. So why would anyone be willing to prolong their no-money, even-less-respect student status in order to subject themselves to this sort of ordeal?

January exams, 9.15 lectures, terms: they’re all a thing of the past. Treat it like a regular 9 to 5 or become fully nocturnal, it’s up to you.

older, but at the same time, wiser. I can remember the giant Woodstock stages on Vanbrugh bowl and when you could drive through Walmgate bar. I remember a little place known as With all this freedom, however, lies the Ikon & Diva, and I’ve been present in greatest problem: motivation. It’s all the Derry to watch England play in the too easy to get stuck and find you have final of the Rugby World Cup. Twice. wasted the entire day on facebook and then go home feeling depressed about Yes that’s right – you can still go to the it. So depressed, in fact, that you feel pub if you’re a post-grad. And take part the need to go on facebook to update in sport clubs and societies. In fact, your status, thus beginning the cycle all unless you choose to grow a proper over again. Certainly it’s true that the academic’s beard, you’ll find most of light at the end is very small and the the undergraduates you know never tunnel long, but it is also wide. Pretty remember that you’re no longer one of much everyone is in the same boat so them – you often end up repeating the there will always be someone to talk to following exchange: who is going through exactly the same thing. Of course being an intelligent “What was your summer like?” and well educated individual, this “Erm, just like last term, but with never occurs to you at the time. fewer interruptions…” As the degree progresses, you also get the feeling that you’ve been in the same place for, well, forever – particularly if you managed to successfully con your current institution in to keeping you on as a post-grad. However this one is more of a mixed blessing – feeling

Firstly, provided you make it out the other side, you get to call yourself doctor – with the one caveat that you keep shtum should you ﬁnd yourself at a restaurant where a fellow diner has passed out choking on a vol-au-vent. In addition to this (and what really ought to be the main reason), is that it allows you to focus completely on what interests you the most and grants you complete freedom to go oﬀ and pursue this subject.

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It’s a lot of work, but if you don’t hate your course to death and there are parts of it that really interest you, then signing up for four more years is an option whereby you can keep some of the best parts of being a student whilst undergoing personal development and gaining a universally recognised qualiﬁcation, not to mention a bloody good way of putting oﬀ getting a real job. -

There’s Something About Venice Words and Photos by Matthew Maynard

enice sits like a floundering fish off the western quayside of the Italian mainland, adrift amongst an archipelago of lesser crustaceans. A marvellous, magical and romantic fish enveloped in history and culture, yet sadly cast askance and deserted by its countrymen, who find the fish to have taken on a rather convoluted and artificial flavour: an attraction for the masses, rather than the expecting connoisseur. Set aside by the discerning Italians, this Brit abroad, picked it up and welcomed it to his plate. Venice is a city of astronomical delight. Entering a coffee shop to start the day will bring you right to the heart of Italian cuisine. The aroma of strong coffee, fresh orange juice and hard liquor assaults the nostrils and you are momentarily overwhelmed. You come to with a glass of orange, a multitude of ornate and sugary little cakes and a few mouth size pizzas and, in your best Italian, you are ordering a Macchiatoni, a drink that sounds more like a character out of the Godfather than a modest café au lait. You leave the smouldering orange husks and the chattering spritz sippers (men and women on a midmorning break from the office – how Italian!), you tear yourself away from the tantalising football sized Lindt chocolates adorning the window display, and head back into the throng. Leisurely you stroll in the direction of St Mark’s Square, but your pace quickens as you approach the baying gondoliers. You hurry your more reluctant girlfriend, congratulating yourself on your resolve to not be wooed by their coaxing Italian lilt and in turn, part with your entire 16

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life savings. Canals are the arteries of Venice, whilst simultaneously they are its destroyer. Rising insidiously, year on year, they threaten to soon sail Versace, Armani and Louis Vuitton handbags silently into the Adriatic. In a futile attempt to abate disaster, the gondoliers selﬂessly pump essential touristic lifeblood around the canals, for a nominal, small charge of €60 for ten minutes. As more water is taken on board, the faster they must punt. The tours become shorter and the prices more outrageous. There must be something about Venice because still the tourists come. Pedestrians are at a disadvantage in Venice. Its waterways, and distinct lack of roads, ensure that you have to jolly well walk the longest way around possible, taking in your fair share of touristic paraphernalia along the way. For every sensible shop in Venice, there are a dozen exclusively selling the synonymously Venetian gift that is the perennially successful facemask. When venturing down certain streets in Venice, any unwitting tourist would be excused for thinking they had landed in the ﬁfteenth century when masked balls were all the rage. These shops must surely cater for every man, woman and child in Venice, as well as

those who have already visited, and return to spruce yourself up before a indeed those who would like to. The night on the town. array is such to cover every animal design that Noah had afloat in his arc. Venice at night, especially at Christmas, really is romantic. Before Eventually you arrive in St Mark’s you know it, you find yourself wobbling Square, having promenaded down in a gondola, and even quicker, parked the Grand Canal, past the river back up again with the €1,000 smile taxis loaded with their wowing, of the gracious Italian gondolier as camera sporting tourists, and you are he gratefully empties your wallet. confronted by the imposing Cathedral But it’s worth it...there’s something of St Mark’s. Having momentarily about Venice which makes you not peered inside with wide-eyed wonder care, and as the lights loom down the at its fantastical scale, it is high tide length of the gently winding Grand for some more urban crazing, and Canal, like the beady cat’s eyes of a to explore a new side street eatery. magical motorway, you fall into a Artichoke hearts, paninis, sun dried nearby restaurant to be confronted tomatoes and pizza slices are the by pizza. Just as Betty’s is blown out bread and butter of this cultured Brit’s of the water in York, Pizza Express is Venetian diet. Back in St Mark’s, it sent plummeting to the bottom of the is as if Julie Andrews has floated into canal in Venice. Pizza really is an art town on her improbable umbrella and here– Enjoy Responsibly! you are in the ‘Feed the Birds’ scene from Mary Poppins. Pigeons are big Feeling like a true Italian and in control business in Venice and for €1 you can of at least half a dozen words of the pick up a bag of bird seed and have language, you order two Limoncellos hours of fun with these unruly, belly in a funky jazz bar as a sugary minded, fowl creatures. nightcap. You don’t know why you like this outrageously offensive drink The light is dying from the brilliant or, indeed, why you did half the things crystal-blue washed sky, and the you did today, but there’s something temperature is dropping further, so about Venice and you can guarantee you head back to the hotel, passing a you’ll be back for more tomorrow. film set that is packing away for the day in one of the side street plazas, and

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Jean Spotting By Angeline Benge

eans, they’re everywhere.

diet is still jeans. If I were to do the same study a few decades ago, I could predict a similar result. Having been a youth style icon for over fifty years, it’s Venturing out onto campus and amazing to think how long jeans have interviewing a massive number of been around. students (two), it seems that the staple of the student fashion The jean was born in 1873, when Nevada tailor Jacob Davis approached Levi Strauss, a Bavarian bedding, clothing and underwear wholesaler in San Francisco. Together they began to make tough workmen’s trousers from strong indigo cotton denim, with copper rivets to strengthen the pockets and base of the fly. This new wonderpant was in instant high demand and the gold miners, lumberjacks and farmers of the West couldn’t get enough of them. By the 1920s, they were market leaders. But it was during the 1950s that true denim domination occurred. Suddenly made ‘cool’ by film icons such as James Dean, Europe’s teenagers wanted in on the action. With their rock’n’roll rebel attitudes, what better to wear than tough Levi 501s. The teens of the 1980s kept up the trouser trend, demanding that their jeans were ripped and torn; while those of the 90s wore theirs low on the waist, baggy and evocative of the skater boys of the time. As for today, it’s clear that the skinny jean gets the biggest vote. Casting a sweeping (and in most cases hungover) eye around the campus, you don’t need to look far to spot one. They’re white, they’re pink, they’re tucked into boots or held up by belts – but most importantly, they’re straight and narrow.

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Maybe it’s because there’s an element of the eﬀortless about them, or perhaps it’s because of their versatility and durability. Whatever the reason, jeans are the uniform of the young. But maybe by now their look is getting a little worn, and it’s time for the trouser to revolutionize once more. Your guess is as good as mine. -

Brief Encounter

Models: Antonia Shaw, Louisa Parry, Clare Harrison, Jake Delaney, David Coupland and Alex Forsyth Photography: Matthew Grum and Tom Hole Stylists: Sarah Graham and Kate Bevan Assistants: Alice Albery and Lauren Clancy All items from Joy clothing, Coppergate Centre, York, YO1 9NY (01904) 672772 (Student Discount: 10% oﬀ on Tuesdays) Antonia wears: Red gathered rose top, purple pencil skirt - Joy. Belt and shoes - model’s own Louisa wears: Black sequin top and long elephant pendant - Joy. Jeans and shoes - model’s own

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Top Left - Clare wears: Pink tailored dress - Joy. Pearl bracelet, tights and shoes - model’s own

Above - Alex wears: Black and white heavy knit button cardigan, lucky strike t-shirt - Joy. Jeans and shoes - model’s own

Top Right - Antonia wears: Red seam dress, green circle and square stone pendant and amber three row glass bead necklace - Joy. Shoes - model’s own

David wears: Black v-neck knitted jumper and boot cut ‘washed’ jeans - Joy. Shoes - model’s own

Left - Louisa wears: Black and white embellished lace dress - Joy. Hair piece - model’s own

Jake wears: Mustard leather jacket - Joy. Trousers and shoes - model’s own

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Left: David wears: Black ¾ length trench coat and boot cut ‘washed’ jeans - Joy. Shoes - model’s own Above: Antonia wears: Red wide collar 50’s coat - Joy Clare wears: Mustard double breasted belted coat, yellow long jersey top, oval bead necklace and large gem stone ring - Joy Louisa wears: Purple short button up collar coat - Joy. Jeans - model’s own Overleaf: Louisa wears: Red contrast button 50’s dress, and red hexagon ring - Joy. Tights and shoes - model’s own David wears: White polo, black shawl neck cardigan and boot cut ‘washed’ jeans - Joy

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Leggings, boots & belt: stylis

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Words by Sherine El-Sayed

Photograph by Tom Hole

he Rubber Duck Theatre Company is not really a company at all. More accurately, it consists of a group of friends who share the desire to let their artistic imaginations run wild by directing, acting and adapting children’s plays. Indeed, the lighthearted nature of founder and director, Ollie Jones and joint- director, Emma Miles, shines through instantly during the photo shoot; as Jones scoops Miles up into his arms, she kicks up a leg, holds her head back so her hair tickles the air, and laughingly confesses to having posed in this position with Jones before. She even asks if I would like a shot of her pretending to wallop him as he lowers her onto the ground.

making up the audience, which can feel somewhat limiting. Nonetheless, all members of Rubber Duck which Jones and Miles have recruited are also former or current members of Drama Soc. Moreover, Rubber Duck’s ﬁrst production was of Michael Frayn’s comedy, Clouds, and was performed in the Barn.

Duck members’ own personal funds, so Jones lucidly asserts he will not give the go-ahead for a project he feels will lead to financial loss. Nonetheless, he is willing to “at least break-even”. Indeed, when producing their most recent play, Prophetess Libuše and Other Czech Fairytales which debuted at the Friargate Theatre, Miles states it was the “artistic experience” alone Interestingly, Clouds is not a children’s which they had in mind. play. Jones explains that going “niche”, by choosing to concentrate on children’s So what does the future hold for productions, only came after the Rubber Duck? Jones is currently in success of Fantastic Mr Fox which they the process of adapting productions performed at the Edinburgh Festival of The Jungle Book and Treasure Island. Fringe last summer. The decision to He is keen for one to be an outdoor do Edinburgh was an impromptu one, performance and the other to be as Jones simply claims, “we wanted held at the Theatre Royal during the to have some fun”. Mr Fox sold out summertime. When I ask whether completely and the excellent reviews they will consider expanding Rubber which followed meant “the extra edge Duck to other parts of the UK, Jones of gaining publicity” had flavoured and Miles seem ambivalent, for, the palates of Rubber Duck members, despite being serious about making a leading them to become “more serious” success of their efforts, they describe about their roles within the “un-official Rubber Duck as being more a “highcompany”, particularly as the potential quality hobby” than a serious career for financial profit was realised. prospect. Jones makes it clear that as soon as Rubber Duck “stops being fun” Perhaps the monetary issue is his participation will also cease. For what establishes Rubber Duck as a the time being, their main priority is to professional network and not just a take each step as it comes, and achieve group of friends larking about. Capital optimal artistic satisfaction. for insurance and hiring theatre space sometimes comes from the Rubber Visit them at www.rubberducktheatre.co.uk -

Jones and Miles are graduates from the University of York and former members of Drama Soc. Miles explains that Rubber Duck was founded upon the aspiration of “branching out” of the Drama Barn. Jones elucidates that performing in the Drama Barn means “you only get a certain cash of people” BAD TASTE N04

Rejuvenation by Toby Roberts BAD TASTE ‘Rejuvenation’ by Toby Roberts

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You Should Get Out Moor Words and Photographs by Oliver Blair

aving a car at Uni gave me an amazing sense of freedom, but it is almost more hassle than it’s worth. Before I knew it, I felt duty-bound to offer friends and housemates lifts across town. Now I’m giving them lifts across country. But saying that, it’s great to get away from York for the day. It gives you that little sense of adventure that a trip to Ziggy’s may no longer offer. My top four places to go: Roseberry Topping (47 miles from campus) Roseberry Topping is just a hill. But, as hills go, it is reasonably interesting – it’s a rather funny shape. This, I am informed, is due both to geographical stuff and also because of a mining collapse “in the early 20th century”. The view it offers, however, from its 320m summit is breathtaking. On a clear day it is alleged that you can see as far as Teeside in one direction and

the Yorkshire Dales in the other. You their opening times before going, really do feel “on top of Yorkshire”, to something I regrettably forgot to do. coin a phrase. Unfortunately, when I visited it was cold and hazy but Entry to house and gardens £9.50 luckily this added to the atmosphere and gave it a mystical edge, so don’t let the weather put you oﬀ. There are several pubs nearby for a well earned luncheon once you have descended. Castle Howard (16 miles from campus) Castle Howard was the location for the 1981 ITV production of Brideshead Revisited and in the Summer of last year it was used again, this time for the Hollywood production of the same drama. The house oﬀers a beautiful backdrop to a casual afternoon stroll around the grounds. This should ideally be follow by civilised afternoon tea in their café and a glimpse inside some of the public rooms of the house. A word of warning: be sure to check

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Whitby (44 miles from campus) Don’t be deceived by Whitby. On the face of it, it’s just your average working fishing town with above average fish and chips (the Magpie Restaurant is legendary). It may look dull, but the town actually has a lot to offer: it is thought to be one of the earliest centres of Christianity in England, Captain Cook’s home port, and (perhaps its biggest claim to fame) it is where Bram Stoker’s Count Dracula came ashore in the form a dog. A visit to the ruins of the Whitby Abbey which stand on the cliff overlooking the town should definitely be on your list of things to do and perhaps the ‘Dracula Experience’, if that’s your

kind of thing. If you really want to “fit in” you may want to consider dressing as a Goth – it’s entirely optional, but most people in the town seem to. Speaking of which… Goathland (41 miles from campus) You wouldn’t realise it from its bizarre name, but you’ve probably seen Goathland before. It is better known as ‘Aidensfield’: the setting for the TV series Heartbeat. You cannot but be drawn to the ‘Aidensfield Arms’ (or the ‘Goathland Arms’ as it is actually named) and although the food maybe below average, it didn’t matter. I felt I should make the effort to lap up the TV history that the building sweats. But if you are not a Heartbeat fan, you may know the village from “Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone” in which the quaint station features as Hogsmeade station. The line unfortunately no longer runs to Hogwarts but it is still used by steam locomotives and can take you to Whitby if needs be. -

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What makes Britain so effortlessly cool? By Nina Sabey huge increase in teenagers at the start of the 60s, nurturing a new realm for the fashion-conscious. The Mod look spread around the world’s fashion centres, and it all began in Britain.

age of twenty and working for Vogue, Bailey was a celebrity in his own right. He transformed fashion as it is today and perhaps, without his insight, Twiggy would not have become the ‘Queen of the Mods’ or dominated Mary Quant, the influential figure in fashion photography. the late 60s made Britain so naturally ‘cool’ – a fashion designer who dared to lift the hemline, producing the ‘I wanted to be Fred miniskirt. Not only was this a fashion Astaire, but I couldn’t so aturday afternoon. Starbucks. statement but it was also revolutionary instead I went for the next Skinny cappuccino in hand. I look for women, giving room for greater best thing, which was to be out the window. Outside lies something female expression. a fashion photographer’. unexpected – the substance which makes me realise that York isn’t so David Bailey. boring after all. I see Britain’s diversity The 70s were, I have to admit, a time that gives her its soul and explains its when America was the dominating prominence in the fashion world. I force. Nevertheless, Britain stood her hadn’t stopped for some time: it takes ground in style and music. Fashion still only a moment of thoughtless musing exposed itself thanks to the Bee Gees’ to notice that we are the fashion capital success helping create the disco scene of the world – Britain is so effortlessly on both sides of the Atlantic. Disco cool, and this is how we got here… fever saw tough men from Yorkshire getting perms and platforms, before Let’s start with the ‘swinging sixties’ heading out for the night. A particular – an age of great innovation from favourite of men’s fashion in this the Conservative 50s, when Jackie-O decade was the ‘angel flight suit’: a represented an image of conservatism fascinating coordinating disco suit in women’s “pastel palette” fashion. with jacket, vest and flared trousers. We remember the time of Mods and Shirts of course had to be shiny satin Rockers (although I warn you now, it with a large collar. will be biased in favour of the Mods). The post-war ‘baby-boom’ caused a Men became increasingly experimental with fashion: the former ‘quiff’, a staple The 80s was all about ‘money, money, of the ‘Teddy Boy’ movement, was money’. Fierce Thatcher was in, and replaced by The Beatles’ style ‘mops the ‘yuppie’ culture was taking over. Everything was big. Big perms, big tops’. mullets. It was a time when straight The Rolling Stones, The Beatles and The men wore pink, boys wore eyeliner, Jam contributed to a fresh canvas for and women wore jump suits and blue men’s fashion, comprising of brightly mascara. Disaster struck, so let us coloured patterns and fitted styling. move on. Smooth and ‘cool’ turtle necks, a favourite of The Beatles, were a key The 90s is a time which most of us can relate to. A time when Britain, in the feature to the man’s look. second part of the decade, moved away Fashion photography was transformed from tiresome and corrupt politicians, by artists like David Bailey and to a New Labour Party, under smiley Terrance Donovan. At the young Blair. Regeneration was in order.

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Anything was possible and once again Britain was on a par with the ‘swinging sixties’. Britain reasserted its identity in music, art and fashion.

It seems we are still an inspiration to the world. This isn’t arrogant – but it would be ignorant to say there wasn’t something special about Britain. In a few decades from now, we will look As Britpop developed, Blur, Pulp and back on the naughties with pride, for Oasis became role-models for the huge following of the Britpop scene. Who could forget Noel Gallagher’s Union Jack guitar or Geri’s Union Jack skimpy dress? Born-and-bred Brit, Kate Moss, changed the face of fashion at just ﬁfteen with her ‘heroin chic’ look, and became the face of Calvin Klein – she sent tidal waves of excitement across the fashion world, not seen since the time of Twiggy. As our economy recovered, there was a renewal of the 60s style optimism driven by Cool Britannia.

being another era which maintained the coolness of Britain. Cool Britannia, let it reign! -

Well, what can be said of the naughties? London Fashion Week is as exciting and busy as ever, and we have the most inﬂuential models in the world. Lily Cole and Agyness Dean are the new faces dominating their ﬁeld (Agyness having just won Model of the Year). Sienna Miller is always in everyone’s ‘best dressed’ category and no one touches us in the current vintage trend – not even New York – with shops like Beyond Retro and gorgeous boutiques in York, such as Priestley’s Vintage Clothing.

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The Art of the Underground: Beneath The Skin By Jo Ajayi-Majebi

he act of tattooing dates back as far as 4,000 years ago as recent discoveries in ancient Egyptian mummiﬁcation techniques now indicate. It is an act which has survived throughout history and has inﬂuences from all over the world. The Chinese were known to have tattooed their warriors as a sign of power, whilst the Greeks regarded tattoos as a symbol

of nobility. The Duke of York (later to become George V) was also known to have acquired a tattoo in 1882, whilst serving on the HMS Bacchante. However, it was Captain Cook who in 1769, introduced this ancient practice to Europe after his voyage to the South Sea Islands. The smoke of oily groundnuts was used by the

natives to produce a black ink which could be stored in coconut shells. This was followed by the preparation of a serrated-edge comb, from either a bone or a shell, which would be dipped into the ink and then pierced into the skin with a sharp tap. However, it was the Japanese that were at the forefront of this worldwide phenomenon, developing their own styles and methods, which can still be seen in modern day tattoo techniques. But from the skull and crossbones, to crucifixes, hearts, dragons, butterflies and even the periodic table, tattoo fashion has clearly changed over the years, and it is also clear that tattoos have become both increasingly accepted and coveted. Unfortunately, the work often has been unrecognised by the art world or branded with the abhorrent stamp of ‘alternative art’. It most certainly is an alternative: a breath of fresh air from some of the nonsense seen in modern galleries. Art, after all, is defined by all things creative and expressive, requiring both patience and dedication. In its purest form, it denotes the use of skill, ingenuity and imagination to essentially produce something with an aesthetic result. Many artists devoted time, energy and their lives to this, so why has this beautiful manner of expression been shunned from the art world until recently? One reason is that, traditionally, tattoos were associated with prisoners, beggars and drunkards, and so were deemed a social taboo. Tattoos were a defamation of creation and, in short, were not an embellishment of the human form, but rather the desecration of it. On top of this, tattoos are a symbol of individuality and a form of expression. Tattoos scream ‘I am me regardless of the consequences!’ Wearing your ink with pride shows a person that is courageous enough to break away from what is deemed culturally acceptable in the western world. I’ve even heard tattoos described

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as ‘etches of defamation’, the process seen as a grotesque and horrific ritual. It is fuelled by each generation’s need to rebel against fashion and fight what was seen as ‘cool’. Tattooists tend to use stencils. Does this make it any less of an art form? No, simply because even the replication of an image requires the tattoo artist to utilise his or her skills to create designs which are often extremely complex. To the critics, it seems almost farcical to label tattoos as art, when you compare it to the likes of Renoir or Monet. However to belittle the beauty created by tattoo artists all over the world and discredit this ancient practice, solely on the grounds of aesthetics, is laughable. Tattoos may not be pretty, but who says they should be? One simply has to observe some of the black paintings by Goya, whose artwork is beyond exceptional. His pieces redefined the meaning of art, introducing horrific, intensely disturbing images, which provoked a whole host of emotions and did not fit the traditional sense of art. And yet, we love Goya.

for its well overdue exit. Fortunately, artists such as David Yurkew (organiser of the first national tattoo convention), Bernie Luther, Paul Booth, and Filip Leu (pioneers of the art fusion experiment) have dedicated their skills to this art form. They paved the way for exceptional artists like YZ Tattoo and continue to inspire other young artists to expand, refine and re-define this genre. The ‘Art Fusion Experiment’, a recent movement in both art and tattooing, was brought together by Booth and Leu in 2000 Tattoos are spotted on everyone and aims to expand the boundaries from the angst-ridden teenager to within this genre. the star-studded celebrity. We are constantly bombarded with images Currently, in York, there are only four of superstars sporting various tattoos tattoo parlours. In the past, clients – something worthy of immediate were from local areas. However, the emulation. Statistics actually show revival in the popularity of tattoos that ‘the illustrated man’ that rests and the quality of the York tattooists proudly on David Beckham’s back is have led to clients coming from the now a popular choice for men aged neighbouring areas, and even all over from nineteen to twenty-five. Critics the globe to be tattooed in the city. argue that female celebrities such as The city boasts our own international Angelina Jolie and Victoria Beckham award-winning star, Mick Tomo of have also resurrected the image of the Ruby Arts, who has an unbelievable tattoo, causing what was once labelled amount of trophies to prove it. He tacky and hideous to become ‘all the has competed internationally, in rage’. Critics therefore, use this as conventions in Berlin, Vienna, Spain, ammunition to disregard tattoos as an New York, as well as locally in shows art form. Our fashion-savvy generation such as Derby, Durham and Newcastle. is known to be fickle. Trends are here Although some styles desired by his today and gone tomorrow and so clients may be similar, Mick agreed that tattoos as an art form are expected to each design, to him, was different and do the same. However, if this was the it is clear that he infuses his creativity, case, this art form should be preparing skill and imagination into each piece BAD TASTE N04

of work. If considering a tattoo, Ruby Arts is highly recommended. The experience is understandably painful but the Neumatic machine (Neuma) is set to launch this year, which will make the tattooing process even safer and aims to reduce the pain by fifty percent. The masses are beginning to see that tattoos can have spiritual and symbolic connotations. Each tattoo represents a certain moment in life: the birth of a child, the death of a loved one, or the celebration of love (whether mistaken or true) is immortalised forever. By branding or defining tattoos as merely the scarification of the body, we lower this beautiful and expressive art form and belittle it to nothingness. I believe that some are intimidated by this genre of art simply because it proudly breaks away from traditional art forms and all that is familiar, carving its own niche within the art world, and questioning our perceptions. -

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Cruel and Tender By Rina Nalumoso & Cheryl Gallacher

shirt smeared with a love-charm she was once given by the beast, Centaur Nessus. She realizes far too late that the charm was in fact deadly poison.

‘’EVERY CHILD WITH NO SHOES

Crimp keeps true to Sophocles’ narrative. Amelia, based on Deianeira, begins to doubt her husband’s involvement in what is emerging as corrupt insurgency. Enter Laela, the so called victim (or perhaps the controlling mistress). With a slick new government minister pulling the strings, and the well-meaning warnings of an investigative journalist, Amelia is faced with the realities of a far-away battle seeping into her domestic sphere: terror begins at home. She becomes a one-woman wrecking crew; an annihilating force as pure as her husband’s, giving rise to the possibility that women have the capability for instinctive violence just as much as men. While it thrusts forth ideas of political hypocrisy and emotional terrorism, the simple boundaries between love and betrayal are at the heart of this play.

WANDERING UP TO A CHECK-POINT EVERY GREEN TREE LINE EVERY QUIET EVENING SPENT READING IS A THREAT AND EVEN THE LAMP ON THE BEDSIDE TABLE EVEN THE COILED FILAMENT INSIDE THE LAMP IS A THREAT.’’

ruel and Tender aims to jolt the average University of York student into taking an interest in politics. At the end of the day, theatre is about turning up on the night and enjoying the show but, as students, we have the luxury of taking risks and putting on drama that questions the world we live in. This is vital if we want to have an impact on any audience. With the recent withdrawal of the Arts Council’s funding of the National Student Drama Festival (NSDF), it is more important than ever to use the Drama Barn on campus to champion our own student writing and the kind of challenging “theatre of the future” that theatre practitioner, Martin Crimp, represents. With the overwhelmingly successful shock-and-awe factor of the ‘War on Terror’, it may seem tempting to apply this type of theme to every new piece of theatre that is created today, post the invasion of Iraq. Martin Crimp leaves it to the David Hares of this world to be so banal. Instead, Cruel and Tender transposes the issues of the ‘War on Terror’ onto the blueprint of the Greek tragedy, The Trachiniae by Sophocles. Written in 2004, Crimp’s most recent full-length play, Cruel and Tender, is a re-telling of Sophocles’ story adapted for the modern world. him, she soon discovers that Heracles has successfully captured the town of In the original myth, Deianeira Oechalia. However, among a train of (the wife of the greatest hero ever, women captured by Heracles is the Heracles), awaits her husband’s princess Iole with whom Heracles return after a ﬁfteen-month absence. has fallen in love. Deineira, upon Sending her son Hyllus in search of learning of this, sends her husband a BAD TASTE N04

Premiered at London’s Young Vic, Cruel and Tender gave us instant inspiration. The decision to include a choreographer to work on dance and movement within the production team was as easy as the continual twisted journey of pleasure and surprise in Crimp’s razor-sharp dialogue. His asinine wit never lets up for a moment as this play whizzes through to a stunning conclusion with all the ingredients of a thriller. Cruel and Tender will be on in Week 7 in the Drama Barn and features an eclectic cast. Don’t miss it. Tickets available at Vanbrugh Stalls from Wednesday Week 7, 12-2pm and limited availability on the door. -

The Perfect Fiasco: A Pantomime

more for their own amusement, but this only added to that hysterical ‘panto’ atmosphere. At recalls, I was amazed by the amount of female talent available. Indeed, many who were not cast in the major roles would By Matt Griﬃn have been just as suitable as those who were. Yet there seemed fewer men of antomime, for me, is deﬁned by a similar standard – out of merely ten over-the-top dames, ridiculously males that auditioned, seven had to be improbable storylines, and well- invited back for recalls. choreographed song and dance hybrids. However, a good pantomime Auditions over, it was time to get down is so much more: laughs are constant to the hard work. Sets had to be made: and the story has to have a semblance an overly ambitious project involving of linkage. Could our very own the construction of a giant pirate ship Pantsoc come up with the goods? This with masts holding television screens. year’s production of Peter Pan found originality and the possibility of comedy within the script, but did the infamous Will Seaward as director transform this into the real deal?

I ﬁrst hooked up with the society during the auditions process. This was, in itself, a bizarre experience. The room set aside for the rehearsals was double-booked, meaning that potential performers had to audition outside in the quiet entrance: a less than ideal circumstance. However, the work put into the rehearsals was overwhelmingly impressive. Script reading was mixed with singing and improvisation, which involved the organisers putting the actors through the most improbable scenarios. My favourite had to be the ‘changing room of death’: a highly unlikely scene in which a door became locked and tried to kill its occupants. Seaward and writer, Marc ‘Goose’ Vestey, seemed to conduct the improvisation scenes 36

As imagined, the turnout for this waned pretty soon, and just a handful of hardened veterans were left painting and sawing away. It was here that I was faced with the problem every society has: budgeting. All the money came from the previous year’s takings as the SU had repeatedly refused to fund this wacky group. According to Seaward, the last application submitted was rejected because Pantsoc donates their proﬁts to charity. This is, apparently, a bad thing. Yet I was informed by Sam Bayley, YUSU’s Societies and Comms Oﬃcer, that if a reasonable application was submitted this year then money would probably be awarded. Scepticism BAD TASTE N04

oozed from the emails I received, but I remain optimistic. Surely the SU couldn’t deny money for another year whilst ﬁnancing Drama Soc and the Gilbert and Sullivan society, could they? The plot was very much York-based with Peter (Sean Rushden) wanting to attend our university. This was much to the dismay of Tink (Paul Young), a drug dealing fairy, and the other lost boys until they received their new hero, Gutso (Catrin Jones). Gutso took Peter’s heroic role with a jovial and arrogant swagger, seeming more like a sexually crazed ‘Buzz Lightyear’ than the more timid Peter Pan. At university, Peter met a self-centred, ‘popular’ Wendy (Nicola Leyshon) and fell in love with her in Ziggy’s, wooing her by drinking beer from his shoe. Meanwhile, Hook (Vestey), a video pirate, returned to Neverland and took the lost boys and fairies as hostage, only to be saved by Peter and his reversal of a ‘freeze gun’. Luckily, the ridiculously improbable ending consisted of Hook and Gutso turning out to be Peter’s parents.

The play was well rehearsed with the lead roles as polished as pantomime could allow. It was full of the usual clichés, though it lacked the famous

from Tiger Lily (Avisha Patel) – a very ﬂirtatious seductress who would even have got the Vanbrugh Provost hot under the collar, as well as Michael

‘he’s behind you’ moment. Most of the humour came from the minor characters with Smee (Joe Peach) frustrating Hook at every turn with his hopelessness, whilst spouting unrelated one liners concerning plums and cows. His camp fellow pirates, meanwhile, cared more about celebrity gossip than guarding their prisoners. The Dutch duo (Woody Williams and Matt Hawkins) were pointless with regards to the plot but provided many comic moments while Mrs. Hook (Matthew Lacey) played the dame rather well (although she was often underused). Other notable contributions came

either that pantomime is not supposed to run to deadlines, or the more common, ‘but we love Will’. While the ﬁrst statement would follow with the classic pantomime stereotype, the second is more telling, and perhaps a tad worrying.

I felt that the play was held together by Mr Seaward and without his presence I worry about the future of Pantsoc. Indeed, before Seaward, it was Rosie Egginton – the self proclaimed ‘Queen of Panto’. I certainly think very few people within university would fail to (Ben Duncan), Wendy’s brother. recognise Seaward in a police line up – There were also cameos from all the his famed waistcoats and ﬂamboyant production team. hair, as well as his sparkling lines, really set him apart from the rest. This being

While the choreography and acting was absorbing, this may not have been through careful planning and preparation. Pantsoc has a nonchalant air about it: an attitude that everything will just fall into place. At any hint of criticism of the organisation, you were greeted with one of two answers: BAD TASTE N04

his last year, and without the existence of a similar personality in younger undergrads, next year’s pantomime could be at serious risk. I’m told that a summer panto is on the cards. If you’re interested, and you should be, email Pantsoc to get involved: pantsoc@yusu. org. It may be your last chance. 37

The State of Michael Billington As the renowned theatre critic divulges his knowledge of Britain’s dramatic history, Matt Griffin finds out what his latest book is really all about the audience found more not written for a casual or non-informed reader. For a humorous than damming. theatre-adoring audience, ‘a comparative piece it is a sublime piece of literature which will make between society and you think and, if nothing culture’ else, promote nostalgia. If, on the other hand, you I was disappointed that cannot recall every play he did not refer more written in 1953 and don’t to Margaret Thatcher, know your David Hare although often pressed to, from your Sarah Kane, for he is more than a little then you could not begin critical of her. Indeed, the to understand the depth of was determined to dislike chapter of the book covering the book. I did appreciate Michael Billington; It was hard not to be the Thatcher years is entitled some of the thinly veiled his being an Oxford impressed by his knowledge. ‘Scenes from an execution’. humour and insights on graduate and writing for After watching over 8000 He is, as such, very liberal, the late fifties and early The Guardian since 1971 plays and writing for forty- though it was obvious he was sixties. However, most being more than sufficient two years, he is the longest an ‘old fashioned guy’, as he references I struggled relate ammunition. I expected standing theatre critic in put it. Being sixty-nine he is to. Hundreds of plays are him to be self-interested the country. He is, I’m of a former generation, and mentioned and the audience and snobbish. This was not informed, an institution. for three quarters of the talk is expected to know the a popular view as turnout ‘The man or woman who is he spoke about less than half plays as if they had watched to his book review last term bored with theatre is bored the book which consisted of them the night before. So, was unexpectedly large. with life’ would seem a pre-1970 plays: an area most if you’re not the experienced fitting eulogy, although he of my generation are hard theatre-goer, then pull up is no nearer to retiring now pressed to relate to. He also an armchair next to me and ‘As he talked his than he was ten years ago. overlooked his critics over stick with Lord of the Rings. face glowed with His new book ‘reinvigorated’ the years. Indeed only a a sentimental passing reference was made him as a journalist. regarding a review by Craig nostalgia, a genuine The book he referred to, Raine, which Michael called smile beheld his ‘State of the Nation’, is a a ‘hatchet job’, ripping apart face, and to be fair, comparative piece between his performance piece by he owned the room.’ society and culture, or piece in an uncharacteristic more directly, between the attack - a joking reference After a warm introduction, theatre and world events. understood by only half the former New York Times Why did he write this? the audience. He was also writer started talking, Playwrights, supposedly, labelled on The Guardian and he clearly adored the pick up the ‘real feel’ of the blog spot as neither ‘broad’ spotlight. As he talked country as opposed to the nor ‘open’ minded. This also his face glowed with a ‘official feel’. From a vastly went unmentioned. sentimental nostalgia, a knowledgeable audience, the genuine smile beheld his main criticism came when As for the book itself, while face, and to be fair, he owned the book was condemned by it is a great idea to compare the room. I was warmed by one local playwright for not society to culture (and I his sheer arrogance mixed mentioning York – an issue feel he does this well), it is By Matt Griffin

with a feigned modesty. ‘All critics are fallible, but some are more fallible than others’, he cheekily claimed after explaining that he had condemned Harold Pinter’s ‘Betrayal’: a play which was shunned by critics before becoming arguably the deﬁning play of the age. This led Michael to produce the deﬁning literary piece of his career – the autobiography of Pinter.

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I shop, therefore I am

Models: Hannah Elliot and Nina Courtney Sabey Photography: Matthew Grum Stylists: Sarah Graham and Kate Bevan Assistants: Hannah Welch, Kristy Harper and Angeline Benge All items from One clothing, Peter Lane, York, YO1 8SW, (01904) 675987 Hannah wears: Cream cotton dress - One. Belt and Jewellery - modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

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Nina wears: White sleeveless long cardigan - One. Jewellery - stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

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Nina wears: Silk patterned dress (seen as top), tweed waist skirt - both One. Tights and accessories - stylistâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

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Hannah wears: High-waist trousers - One. Top - modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

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Nina wears: Cream shift dress, stripe blazer, long glove and scarf set- all One. Jewellery - modelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own

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The Fragrance Revolution

Jean-Paul Gaultier ‘Le Male’ ; DKNY ‘Be Delicious’; Sean John ‘Unforgivable’.

By Sam Hogton

new age is dawning. The time has finally come to challenge man’s seemingly unending ignorance on an issue that is far too important to be neglected any longer. The F word… Fragrances! We’ve all been there and suffered in silence long enough; how many first dates have been ruined by the copious application of Brut, or, horror of horrors, those guys who find it acceptable to go out au naturel? Well no more. The smoking ban has lifted the cloudy veil of nightlife mystery; hundreds of people crammed together in a confined space isn’t sexy, in fact it’s quite reminiscent of ground meat. I need not impart to you the potent

obviously haven’t heard that song. It is a well-known anthropological fact that early homo sapiens used scent to distinguish friend from foe, in finding mates and even in abstract tasks like hunting and finding territory. This begs the inevitable question: if the cavemen of eons past can master the art of the fragrance, how can Yorkmen continue to get it so wrong? To answer this, you just have to look in any of the main hangouts of York. I can’t see a group of lads enjoying a round of pints in the Charles whilst mulling over the pros and cons of the new Chanel. For men here, it seems, the subject is still borderline taboo and a touch too feminine. Well don’t fear, all the answers you seek (or at least require) lie below. Ultimately, choosing a scent is an intensely personal choice, an expression of your self. The preconception of perfume as optional needs to be dispelled – it’s as integral to your overall look as your clothes, style, voice or smile. The right choice can make an unforgettable impression and will forever provoke memories in those you meet. Lacoste Essential will always remind me of my best friend, whereas Ralph Lauren Polo Sport never fails to conjure up images of a particularly bastard ex I’d rather forget. A friend recently came out with their new ‘fresh’ spring scent, thinking they smelled a million dollars; I didn’t have the heart to tell them they were more like a Persil wash personified. To get started, here are my tried and tested five scents for the run up to Valentine’s, all available locally and between the £30-50 range.

miasma of B.O. and Lynx that pervades Ziggy’s and its peers. Bob Dylan once wrote, “These times, they are a’ changing” – and reliably, like the cast of Thou shalt apply: Chanel ‘Platinum Anchorman, the men of York Égoïste’; Penhaligons ‘Endymion’; 44

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These are all crisp, spicy yet warm fragrances, perfect for these colder months. The freshest is easily Platinum Égoïste, but this is counterbalanced with a woody, oriental undertone. The ﬁfth choice is the fragrance from Puﬀ Daddy; I’ve included it because, although the smell reminds me of Sex Panther, it contains Tonka bean, which is the world’s most potent aphrodisiac and illegal in several countries. This should hopefully encourage you to leave your vials of rohypnol at home this Valentine’s. In general, I would never endorse a celebrity fragrance; much like a man with a Porsche, the fancy bottle design and emblazoned brand name are generally trying to compensate for something. To apply, spray the bottle a few times into an open space and walk into the mist. In a similar vein, play it safe with eau

de toilette. The only thing worse than no fragrance is too much! With these precepts in mind, I believe you are ready to step out into the world reborn: a new man. Now do your bit to change the tragic state of scents here. Spread the word, the revolution is coming. Let’s just hope that York’s male contingent is not, once again, left behind. -

Misogyny and R’n’B By Kristy Harper and Sophie Harrison

ong before ‘pimp’ was a verb used by Radio 2 presenters and Fiddy Cent alike, there was once a time when R’n’B simply meant rhythm and blues. Blues and jazz, similar to rap, originated as an expression of African American struggles, tackling the issues of slavery, racism and a desire for emancipation. The New York ‘Bronx’ created a breeding ground for many an individual to express their hopes and fears, and their disgust at US white supremacy in the form of music.

the artist advertises the sexual empowerment that they apparently wield. We thought we’d make a point by counting how many diﬀerent shots of half-naked women there were appearing in 50 Cent’s ‘P.I.M.P’ music video in under a minute. The number of scantily clad ‘bitches’ exceeded twenty.

How can you take such a lifestyle so far removed from your own seriously?

It would be unfair to generalise about R‘n’B artists in this way, as some, yes only some, never use the misogynistic image to sell records. Kanye West’s more tender moments stand in sharp contrast to Snoop Dogg. He states for example, ‘through the ﬁre, to the limit, Considering R‘n’B was once a type of to the wall. For a chance to be with music with a political agenda, the so- you, I’d gladly risk it all’. called ‘American dream’ has created an image which the majority of those, Ultimately, it appears that R‘n’B is from the same background and merely a commercial entity, where neighbourhoods, cannot access. political and humanitarian issues no longer hold sway. This type of music Those that are still living in poverty, was originally about changing things in areas such as the Bronx, can hardly for the better, as Grandmaster Flash identify with 50 Cent’s helicopters portrayed in his ‘Message’. Now it has and the Louis Vuitton interior of his moved on to promote an unrealistic Rolls Royce. The commercial nature lifestyle which is not only misogynistic, of the music world has caused R‘n’B but also deeply unrepresentative of to portray this unattainable and the people and causes from which it misogynistic lifestyle. came. -

One of the better known founding artists of this movement was John Lee Hooker. His music addressed poverty, unemployment and the struggles of every-day life at the time. ‘Hobo Blues’ was the ﬁrst of many songs dealing with the segregation of American society and the problems it created. In their music and their videos, a woman is equated to a car, and is seen If these were the social messages as nothing more than a car. Think of conveyed in the music, how did we the images associated with the “fuel end up with some pointy-shoed, fur- pump”, and you can see not only how coated, bling-encrusted self-labelled degrading, but how appallingly lazy ‘P-I-M-P’ as the stereotypical R’n’B the R‘n’B imagery is. artist of today? The ‘gangsta rapper’, and their ‘bitch’ The roots of this music genre seem character, are used as a means of to have become lost under a shroud amusement for an audience, which are of misogynistic smoke. Think of as a matter of fact,, largely g y suburban Snoop Dogg’s lovely ‘bitches,’ 50 Cent’s white teenagers agers who wish that boastful pimp lifestyle and Akon’s Usher wass their boyfriend. classy reference to the female anatomy, The idea that hat the misogyny is ‘‘cause pussy is pussy and baby you’re perpetuated d by an audience pussy for life.’ who don’t really take the whole deal too In music videos, misogyny seems to be seriously cannot c be a recurring theme. Scantily clad, igno ored. ignored. thong-wearing women gyrating on

Noah and the Whale By Tom Bishai

nother day on Last.fm brings us another band heralding from London. Intriguing name aside, one can only hope this four man, one woman outfit, known as Noah and the Whale, can offer at least a change of direction from the norm. One thing is overwhelmingly clear – they fall into the, rather all too fluid, concept of Indie. It is increasingly easy to argue that there needs to be a restriction on Indie bands that are hysterically declared to be ‘up and coming’ – the London music scene is already overpopulated. Thankfully, the self-styled Folk Rock group have their roots in something

altogether unusual; juxtaposing Punk and Folk in a mixture which is rarely seen or heard. Given their sound, it is not a great leap of faith to assume that Bob Dylan is an inﬂuence. Meanwhile the inspiring use of the ukulele adds a quaint sound to their music. Signed to Young and Lost Records, the band has company in quite eclectic stock; other signed bands comprise of Larrikin Love, Good Shoes and Pull Tiger Tail. From a musical perspective, one cannot label them as merely mainstream.

The amateurish video, which depicts the band in what appears to be a pub playing homage to the Monkees, is slightly overbearing. One hopes the farcical dancing that accompanies will not follow in their next release. Whilst adding an element of fun to the video, it has all been done before, and Noah and the Whale’s offering is no improvement. Personally, I believe the band’s longevity is more likely to be influenced by unreleased singles such as ‘Mary’. The songs melodic charms are undeniable, although sadly this Having given their new single, ‘Five particular record will probably not be Years Time’ a whirl, I have some so well received in today’s climate. inkling why Gary Crowley of London Calling was happy to endorse the band. Essentially there is little wrong with The upbeat, jovial tune will appeal to this progressive London ensemble, the masses. Although admittedly the but unhappily they appear to be far occasional nonsensical lyrics, such from the finished product. However, as ‘there’ll be love in the bodies of my mood is optimistic, so perhaps I the elephants’, portray a band yet to will close with the fervent hope that mature. Given their relatively young surely there is a niche for another age, this may come as they develop London band offering something (here’s to hoping for their fans’ sakes). ‘unsurprisingly different.’ 46

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York Wasteland By Emma Robson been able to truly expand outside the city walls, meaning that the music scene cannot expand outside the runof-the-mill fare. The irony of this is that students are crucial to the music scene. Openminded enough to embrace innovative new music, and so often with distinguishable fashion-music styles, students, quite simply, care about good music. The Klaxons wore coloured skinnies - their fans could be spotted a mile oﬀ. Such unashamed enthusiasm and loyalty is always appreciated by artists. And this can be found in York.

ust what is it that causes reputable Finding a society that celebrates your artists to bypass York on the music music taste isn’t hard – in that respect, map? York has plenty. Jazz, gospel, blues, folk music… whatever tickles your You like a band or solo artist. You taste buds, the chances are someone try to find tickets to see them on will feel the same. I’ve found an oasis tour. Alas! The closest venue they are in the Barfly venue, Fibbers. Doubling playing at is in Leeds – more often up (somewhat dubiously, given that it than not, at either the University’s or has no windows) as a café during the Metropolitan’s Union. Laziness isn’t day, it is an unpretentiously intimate a factor in my annoyance; travelling, venue offering some unexpected gems. and the cost of doing so, barely figures. More Fridays than not, I’ll be found at What bothers me about going to see a the clubnight, downing the horrifically band in Leeds is that I am leaving my cheap Sambuca and bothering the DJ University, only to travel to another.

with song requests. (quick tip - if you request the Yeah Yeah Yeahs, he will always reply “yeah yeah yeah.” See how many times you can get him to say it.) However, the problem with Fibbers is that bands often don’t get the reception they deserve: any band with even a small quota of charisma is hardly going to be inspired playing to the York audience tapping their toes and clapping politely. And yet, if Indie - or the broader ‘Alternative’ genre - isn’t your thing, where can you go? There is the Stone Roses Bar and Certificate 18; both generally rock-orientated, but the latter also offers nights for those inclined to punk, emo or hardcore. Sunday night Gallery is aimed at Hip Hop and R‘n’B fans; steer clear if grinding up against a stranger doesn’t appeal. Some kind of attempt, has been made at musical diversity in Toffs and Gallery, allocating specific rooms or floors to different genres. Ziggy’s, as ever, appeals only to those drunk enough to appreciate another painful rendition of “Living on a Prayer”. Better see what’s happening at The Faversham in Leeds then. A bleak portrayal, perhaps. But all is not lost. Get involved, continue to care – and, whatever you do, continue to complain. -

The lack of a decent Union venue is, arguably, the most intrinsically detrimental factor in York’s shocking music scene. A Union has the potential to become not only a thriving social centre for all students, regardless of college allegiance, but also a location for touring artists to perform. Take Leeds and Sheﬃeld; York can boast superiority in many respects, and yet (apart from the very formal York Opera House), where in York can one book a large-ish gig? When a small city is so close to Newcastle, Leeds and Sheﬃeld, it isn’t that surprising that we are missed out with such infuriating frequency. York has never BAD TASTE N04

Interview with Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man By Helen Nianias

t’s a shame that frontman Fred Macpherson (aka. Fred Les, Frederick Blood-Royale or Fred the Jew) is more famous than his band. It is also a shame that his relationship with notorious “party girl” (make of that what you will) Peaches Geldof was so public, because that is all I really want to ask him about. This does not for a comfortable interview make (although I do now know what her favourite type of Ribena is - blackcurrant, if you’re interested) and I eventually have to actually ask questions about the band. That’s not to say OELM aren’t any good. They are. Watching them play Leeds’ Brudenell Social Club, the particular skill of drummer Edouard and guitarist Shaun, matched with Fred’s prowess as a frontman, is enough to impress even the most embittered, anti-celeb music “ journo”. It’s just that the hype, endless taking the piss out of the audience and image of the indie-in-crowd is challenging. The band presents themselves as

mysterious. They do this well: I am Fred, who does most of the talking. mystified. I don’t think I quite “get” That is all the explanation given, with them. no justification for footnoting the Bible. Having disbanded previous outfit, Les Incompetents, to focus on a more Although they certainly aren’t stupid, serious and much “darker” musical the fact that they have just picked up project, OELM have left behind the on stuff in the Bible and shoved it middle-class whimsy London living. into their band name implies they are Gone are the days of singing about frantic to form an intellectual “image” “waking up in Hackney Wick” and for themselves, rather than creating getting off with girls named Mandy something that makes complete sense. (or blokes named Andy) in rubbish In trying to be epic, mysterious and nightclubs. Criticised for being a brooding, they rely on clichés from “novelty” band back then, Fred and co. films, books and religion which do now focus on friends waking up from not sit too happily together. In trying comas and the bleak disillusionment to reject the fun and flounce of Les of post-adolescence. Quite a change Incompetents, they have almost made of direction, which Fred describes as themselves seem more adolescent – “like a phoenix from the ashes” of Les this is the band equivalent of Adrian Incompetents, before he launches into Mole painting his room black. I a convoluted brick-turning-into-a- desperately hope they will prove me flower analogy that lasts twenty long wrong, because they have the tunes minutes. and the talent, but this particular outfit doesn’t showcase this. I get Announcing “Every generation has the feeling that this isn’t their final a legend. Every saga has a beginning. incarnation, and that we haven’t heard Every journey has a first step” on their the last from these boys. MySpace, the “epic” nature of this band is most definitely a preoccupation. As See them play Levis’ ‘Ones to Watch’ a name, Ox.Eagle.Lion.Man suggests at York Fibbers on 16th February. strength, power and all the rest of it. But why these specific things? “Oh, they’re just things that are repeatedly repeated in the Bible” says

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Indie-view By Helen Nianias

BAD TASTE GIG GUIDE – Fibbers, York Don’t wallow in Leeds envy this term! Providing a mix of the fairly obscure and the fairly mainstream, Fibbers presents an eclectic line-up for the rest of term. Thursday, February 7 I Was A Cub Scout. Younger than most ﬁrst years. But much more talented. Thursday, February 14 Pete & The Pirates. Poppy, punky boys-withguitars. Don’t miss.

s Toffs’ Indie room a mainstream monstrosity or just unpretentious? Arctic Monkeys, The Killers, The Fratellis. These three names strike fear into the hearts of many “too cool for school” kids who roll their eyes when Mr Brightside leaks from the sound-system for what seems like the thousandth time that evening. But is there some merit in such a predictable playlist? Or should we be dancing to hysterically hyped “fresh new talent” that drownedinsound.com tell us to listen to? Ade, Toffs’ Indie room DJ, seems to think not. He hit back at the glorification of obscure Indie, pointing out that a really good night involves dancing and singing – something most people couldn’t do to a Patrick Wolf album track. Toffs is all about hit “Indie” singles, and unashamedly so. Of course, this isn’t that popular. The fact that “you really get used to people slagging you off” suggests that being inclusive doesn’t go down too well with the music snobs amongst the crowd.

Saturday, February 16 Cut Off Your Hands. Spector-influenced and totally Although Ade admits that he “hates The danceable. Fratellis”, his choice to play music that other people will like, even if he can’t Sunday, February 17 Art Brut. stand it himself, reflects an inclusive and Sardonic Indie: surely the best kind of totally unsnobby mainstream attitude. music. While Chelsea Dagger may be a knife Tuesday, March 18 Long Blondes. through the heart, it is surely more fun Stompy, glamorous purveyors of than pretending to love a Radiohead dancefloor classics. B-side. Tuesday, April 8 Poison The Well. Ridiculously famous US hardcore. Tuesday, April 29 iLiKETRAiNS. Ethereal, haunting, fantastic. All tickets available from ticketweb. co.uk -

York’s Little Gem By Matthew Grum Mr. Sandwich (not a lesser known character in the “Mr. Men” series but an unassuming delicatessen) can be found along The Shambles – one of the narrow cobbled streets which wind their way through the older parts of York’s city centre. Estate agents would describe the interior as cosy (and would almost certainly make note of the original 16th century wooden joists). The shop seems completely at home amongst the top-heavy Tudor buildings with their quaint tenants: restaurants, curiosity shops and other tourist-oriented outlets. It has a certain timeless quality to it. However, looks can be deceiving. Following the success of Mr. Sandwich over the past four years since it opened, Sayed, Mr. Sandwich himself, is now selling franchises which will see replica stores in a range of sizes popping up around the country.

Sayed attributes the success of Mr. Sandwich to three factors. First is the product - a range of snacks, drinks and homemade biscuits, and of course freshly made sandwiches available on brown or white bread, or in a wrap. The menu of fortyseven choices includes many original creations that you are unlikely to find anywhere else: tuna, celery, cashew nuts in mint mayonnaise with cucumber, anyone? Try it. And Sayed’s favourite sandwich is? “Number Twenty-One”: the Motadella salami, cucumber, tomatoes & gherkin. Next is the price which is alluded to by the sign which hangs proudly outside the shop – just £1: a refreshing change from the inflated prices seen elsewhere in the city centre. It is therefore no surprise that Mr. Sandwich has a strong following amongst students, as evidenced by the by the facebook group, “Mr £andwich Appreciation Society”. Here, amongst discussion of fillings and the existence of Mrs. Sandwich, debate rages as to whether the name is supposed to be pronounced “Mr Sandwich”, “Mr. Poundwich” or the somewhat tenuous, “Mr. Poundand-wich”. Well maybe not ‘rages’, for such a word is entirely inappropriate to describe anything to do with Mr. Sandwich. Indeed, the final piece of the puzzle is the personality and general good humour with which you are greeted every time you visit the shop. It is these qualities that Sayed is most keen to ensure franchisees take on board, even in the larger outlets. With these principals at heart, I can’t imagine how the venture could be anything other than a success. However, regardless of the number of Mr. Sandwiches worldwide, York will always be special in having Sayed himself, serving sandwiches daily and thanking you sincerely for your custom. -

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