The Banter - June 2011

twin atlantic annie lennox // olly murs // the guillemots

her majesty and the wolves // yasmin // panda su Also : CD REVIEWS // GIG REVIEWS // Movies // Competitions

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Contents

16

inside

Issue 2 2011 â—? www.thebanter.co.uk

8 Interview - Twin Atlantic

Maxwell Lynas talks to Twin Atlantic ahead of their album release.

18 CD Reviews

14

Tht We take a look at the best recent releases in the music world

4

26 The Scots are coming

With the latest names to the bill, T in the Park prepares for a Scottish invasion

28 T in the Park

Former Pussycat Doll, Kimberly Wyatt, talks to The Banter.

34 Gig Reviews

A round up of some the hottest gigs in Glasgow over the last few months.

40 Interview - Annie Lennox

32

24

Editorial Team Editor

Ritchie Marshall

Photos

Daren Borzynski Kate Chambers

News Team

Maxwell Lynas Anna Gault Daren Borzynski Sean David Petra Raspel Scott Purvis Simon Cassidy Jack Chambers Natasha Reid Tony Connolly

Cover Photo Daren Borzynski

The Banter talks to Annie Lennox about her involvement in volunteering 42 Pathways to Music A look at Young Scots latest initiative Pathways to Music

46 Movies

A look at the upcoming movies to hit your screens over the upcoming weeks.

A loo

Contact

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interview

OLLY MURS Interview by Ritchie Marshall/Alyce MacPherson

Interview

Interview

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ssex boy Olly Murs is, as we all know, a nice guy, so it’s no surprise that’s he on board with volunteering. With Volunteers Week at the start of June we grabbed some time with Olly to chat to him about his experiences.

Olly was the main act at the recent Young Scot Awards, “It was a great night to be there and it great to see the young Scots, its great to see what they are doing for Scotland. People perceive young people and children as to getting up to mischief and doing all these bad things but I think it was great to show what great Young Scots are doing at the moment. It was a great honour to be there and to be a part of it, it was fantastic.”

The ‘cheeky chappy’ reckons young people are being pretty unfairly represented these days too making events like the Young Scot Awards even more important in showing support for and rewarding activity and commitment, “It’s a great showcase … whilst there are a lot of kids that are getting up to mischief there are a lot of great young people doing great things for their families, for themselves and are making a change to their communities.”

If you skip over to YouTube you can see Mr Murs doing an extraordinarily good impression of Paolo Nutini, on Radio One after covering Paolo’s song ‘Candy’ in the Live Lounge, which he also preformed at the Young Scot Awards. He laughed when asked about this, “Do you know what, I have been a huge fan of Paolo’s for many, many, many years ever since he broke through. For me impersonating Paolo used to be a thing I used to do with my mates for a gag down the pub, or round the park or playing my guitar. Now I suppose when you are in the limelight and you have a microphone in front of you and you singing in front of thousands of people I thought it was quite appropriate, especially coming to Scotland for the craic I thought I would blast it out and see what everyone thought.

So yeah, it’s good fun.”

Olly had a busy the week as ahead of the Young Scot Awards too, he was co-hosting the Radio 1 breakfast show with Chris Moyles, something he really enjoyed and used as an opportunity to talk up the Young Scot Awards while he was there, “You kind of forget sometimes you are obviously on the show and you are talking about it. Chris Moyles would ask me what I was up to and I told him and it was great to plug the Young Scot Awards as it is a big event in Scotland and probably not a lot of people down here in England know about it, it great what you guys do.”

But, being the kind hearted soul that he is, Olly’s not just been working on the Young Scot Awards, he also trekked across the Kenyan Desert for Comic Relief which he describes as “one of the best things I’ve ever done.” He was also incredibly modest about it all, “It was a great event and we had such a good time on it and I think we helped raise 1.3 or 1.4 million pounds which is pretty phenomenal really and a great achievement by

all of us as a group”.

It wasn’t all smiles on the trek though, it was an eye opening experience for Olly too, “When you go to a country like Kenya which is so behind the times the poverty over there is really bad, a very poor country, and to go from that to this it really does waken you up what you have here and how lucky we really are. I just hope in the next 10-15 years it really does change over in Africa and Kenya and it does get better and people are able to live a healthy life without there being so many diseases and illnesses. Hopefully that will happen, we are raising lots of money every year and I hope that Kenya as well as Africa can see a change.”

There were some technical hitches along the way too, “I struggled with some chafing and I had some diarrhoea problems but they were just part and parcel of it. They are small things to what some of the families and kids go through over there. So I was able to get over them and get to the end and finish the challenge.”

Ever busy, Olly is also the patron of the children’s charity Brainwave back in his home town which helps children who suffer from developmental delay. Olly got involved after going down to visit one day and was blown away by what they did, “I was actually quite shocked at whilst how small it is the great work that they do and not many people know about it which I also found shocking. So being such a good charity and to help it get the recognition it deserves I am a patron of it and be a part of it and I am hoping to do a lot more events for them in the future and raise more money and also raise more awareness of the great work that they are doing.”

So with his new status as celebrity we asked Olly if he felt like it’s good to get something back through charity work and volunteering, “Completely, that’s probably the best thing about being famous and being given this opportunity you are able to help and support other people and make a difference. I think that was the key thing because music is such a powerful thing it gets across the country very quickly.”

As I said that’s probably one of the best things about being in this industry that I am able to do that and make a difference to people’ s lives and causes. I really enjoy what I do and don’t get me wrong I love singing and performing but also help people and make a difference is one of the best things as well.”

It wasn’t all talking about his commendable work when we sat down with Olly though, we also chatted about what he’s better known for, his music. His new single ‘Busy’ will be released on the 29th of May, a cute song with a quirky video, is definitely already a favourite with the fans but it’s also a favourite with Olly, “It’s great its one of my favourite songs on the album.”

“It’s just basically a song about a lazy day on a Sunday, getting THE BANTER |

Interview busy with a partner or someone that you are very close to and you are happy to spend time with. You are not worried about what’s going on around you and the stresses of life and you are just enjoying life and getting busy doing nothing. So yeah I am really happy with the song and I can’t wait for it to come out.”

Olly’s already had a double platinum album, but being the modest bloke he is, he wasn’t expecting that at all, “You don’t know what to expect and you just enjoy the moments and once again I am enjoying them at the moment. To have a double platinum album is something I am very proud of and you want to keep selling more and it’s hopefully given me the platform to release and second album and hopefully that will be better than the first. I am always striving to do better things.”

one to watch for

ALICE GOLD A

lice Gold has just finished recording her debut album, “Seven Rainbows”, an assortment of pure pop records with all the zest and passion required to shoot her to the top of the charts.

The young Camberley singer has spent most of her youth travelling from London to America to Luxembourg, avoiding the 9-5 grind and searching for her unique sound.

In America, she moved from place to place, playing her music in bars and here, she realised that she was born to perform.

Olly’s already been to Scotland twice in May now and in a few weeks it’ll be his hat trick, and he’s looking forward to it, “I have always had a great relationship with the Scottish fans and with the people up there and I love coming to Scotland I always have a good time and the Scots are always up for a party so I always enjoy myself and I look forward to coming up at the end of month.”

She returned to London, and set about finding a producer for her album. This strong-willed woman knew who she wanted. “I needed a producer for the album,” she remembers, “So I stopped and thought, which of the producers I’ve met has come to more than one of my shows and has told me he loves what I do? And there was only one person who fit the bill. That was Dan Casey”

Looks like Olly’s got plenty to keep him busy at the moment so when volunteer week comes around, it might be an idea to get out to follow his lead and get involved? Volunteering can be fun, is really fulfilling and let’s face it, it looks great on your CV. If a double platinum artist like Olly can manage to be such an active volunteer and charity worker then why not join him.

Casey has worked with the likes of Hot Chip, Kylie and Lily Allen and when these two came together, they just “clicked like old friends”. In 22 short days, Alice Gold had created an album of powerful, punchy, pop tunes that captured all of her personality.

Seven Rainbows - Alice Golds debut album is available from 4th July.

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Feature

The Belladrum Tartan “Rabbit” Festival

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n an announcement that would have made Bugs Bunny proud and would have got music fans hopping with excitement, Belladrum Tartan Heart Festival has announced Echo & The Bunnymen are to headline the event’s second stage on Friday 5th August, and Scots indie stars Frightened Rabbit will take the same slot on Saturday 6th August.

(The bunny references and puns stop here, thankfully!)

Festival organisers have also warned regular Bella fans to buy their tickets soon as tickets are already selling at double the rate of last year’s event which sold out well in advance. “We don’t want our long-term supporters to be caught out and left without tickets if they intend coming,” said festival director Joe Gibbs.

Also just announced for the event are: Anna Calvi, Ed Sheeran, Teddy Thomson, MC Xander; Young Rebel Set; Birdy, 3 Daft Monkeys as well as Scots legends Roddy Hart & The Lonesome Fire and Glasgow-based singer Emile Sande.

Also joining the line-up will be cult Glasgow ska punk veterans, The Amphetameanies; Glasgow folk-rock sextet, Wooden Box With A Fistful Of Fivers; The Dangleberries, The Staves, Torridon, Inverness grunge popsters Iain MacLaughlin & The Outsiders who will play an opening slot on the main stag and local heroes the Rooty Ma Toot Big Band!

These acts join twin Scots rock legends Texas and Deacon Blue who are to headline the eighth staging of the festival Also announced for Bella are: Newton Faulkner, the Brit-nominated, million selling singer-songwriter; Frank Turner, exponent of passionate folk/ punk; fast-rising Scots indie band Admiral Fallow; indie rock quartet Little Comets; up-and-coming alt-folk Dry The River who mix americana, gospel and indie rock; The Webb Sisters, otherwise known as Leonard Cohen’s backing singers; Australian blues

singer-songwriter CW Stoneking and His Primitive Horn Orchestra; celtic rock fusion band Skerryvore from the island of Tiree; electro-acoustic band Saint Saviour and singer-songwriter Benjamin Francis Lefwich; and kick-ass gypsy punk band Drunken Balordi.

Other confirmations include the top international reggae act, Easy Star All Stars; Highland artiste James Mackenzie & The Aquascene; blues country rockers Cousti; and glam trash punks Diddums.

Belladrum 2011 takes place in the beautiful Highland surroundings of Belladrum Estate, near Beauly in Invernessshire. The independent festival has built a reputation for its eclectic line-ups, its offbeat non-musical entertainments and its all-ages approach. The festival won a VisitScotland Thistle Award in 2009 and is a past winner of the Grassroots Festival Award at the UK Festival Awards, the festival industry’s ‘oscars’.

Advance adult weekend tickets are £90. They include parking and camping, except for campervans and caravans which will be charged £30 per vehicle.

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Interview

CRACKS ON THE GLASS CEILING | THE BANTER

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The Banter’s Maxwell Lynas interviews Glasgow rock band Twin Atlantic

Photo // Daren Borzynski

or a lot of up and coming bands the closest they get to the big time is having their faces pressed up against the metaphorical glass ceiling peering through and wondering what to do to break on through to the other side.

Up until recently there was really just one way of breaking through that glass ceiling for bands and musicians and that was constant touring, recording and hard work but this is the 21st century and there is now countless ways to “make it”.

Bands and musicians can now go on one of the 67 or so talent shows that plague our TV listings, have their song featured on an advert or a TV show or have a music video that goes viral and those are just some of the ways new bands and artists are discovered.

But for Glasgow four-piece Twin Atlantic there was only one option for them, and that is the former, an option of hard work, constant touring and recording.

Since the band came together in 2007, they began to build up a strong reputation both locally and nationally through supporting bands such as Circa Survive and mewithoutyou.

After that the band set out to record their debut EP A Guidance From Colour at Long Wave Studio in Cardiff with producer Romesh Dodangoda (Funeral For A Friend, Kids In Glass Houses, The Blackout), The band then released this debut EP on 14 January 2008 preceded by their first single, Audience & Audio, on 24 December 2007.

The band entered into 2008, with press support from national music magazines, and this saw the band’s profile begin to rise and they began to land support slots on national tours with acts such as Biffy Clyro and they were personally chosen

by Jimmy Chamberlin to support Smashing Pumpkins at Glasgow’s SECC. Over the following months, they also supported a range of American acts such as The Matches, Blink 182, Finch and Say Anything on their respective UK tours, as well as many of the Scottish festivals; RockNess, Live at Loch Lomond and Connect Music Festival.

Shortly after that the band signed a single deal with King Tuts Recordings, and their next single “What Is Light? Where Is Laughter?” was released on 29 September 2008, this was followed up by a joint headline tour of Scotland with The Xcerts and then their first set of solo headline dates across the UK. There was still no rest for Twin Atlantic as the Glasgow four-piece were chosen as the main support for The Subways on their European tour throughout October and November THE BANTER |

Interview 2008 and the band finished the year with a UK headline tour which concluded with a sold out gig at the Classic Grand in Glasgow on 6 December 2008.

2009 was an important year for Twin Atlantic, it saw the band sign with Red Bull Records, with whom they released their debut mini-album Vivarium in early September but the year started out with a sold out gig at Glasgow’s Queen Margaret Union.

2009 also saw the release of two new singles Lightspeed , on July 29 and You’re Turning Into John Wayne on September 7.

The band toured extensively in 2009 and 2010, playing Download Festival, Guilfest, T in the Park, Sonisphere and Belladrum over the summer of 2009, as well as providing support on the Taking Back Sunday tour of the UK and Ireland in July 2009.

Once again the Glasgow boys didn’t stop there and they continued into a full headline tour of the UK in September and then set off to the United States with The Fall of Troy and Envy On The Coast in March and April 2010.

2010 saw more impressive support slots as Twin Atlantic supported The Gaslight Anthem on their British mini-tour, as well as Enter Shikari and US mega groups Blink 182 and My Chemical Romance and even more festival appearances, Twin Atlantic appeared on the bills for the Hevy Music Festival and then the sold-out Belsonic festival in Belfast with compatriots Biffy Clyro.

The band hit the ground running in 2011, playing some intimate club shows to kick off the year in style, with towns and cities such as Yeovil, Leicester, Preston, Orkney, Thurso and even Dingwall playing host to Twin Atlantic.

The band also joined Tom DeLonge’s Angel & Airwaves for a European tour.

Speaking before that intimate club tour and the Angel & Airwaves European tour, Sam McTrusty (vocals/guitar) had this to say: “We are really looking forward to this tour, we have supported so many bands over the last year with next to no headline shows & that has made us really miss the vibe & community of our wee fan base.

“This is us getting back to what we do best and it is only made all the better that we have just finished recording our debut full-length album.

“We will be playing some new songs that define the new direction for us, and we can’t wait to let people hear what we have been working on and to top it off, it’ll be great to be back on the road with Tom DeLonge and Angels & Airwaves for the shows in Europe.”

As the band put the finishing touches to their highly anticipated debut album Free at Red Bull Studio in Santa Monica with über producer Gil Norton (Foo Fighters, Pixies), the previous four years of hard work and constant touring has positioned Twin Atlantic up against the “Glass Ceiling” and the ceiling is beginning to crack.

As the Twin Atlantic boys get set to launch their new album Free, it looks like that “Glass Ceiling” is about to be shattered…

The band, composed of Sam McTrusty (vocals, guitar), Barry McKenna (guitar, cello, backing vocals), Ross McNae (bass, backing vocals) and Craig Kneale (drums), had some down time before the release of Free and their UK headline tour, so we here at The Banter HQ decided it would be a perfect time to 10 | THE BANTER

Interview catch up with the band and have a chat and take some photos before they embark on shattering that “Glass Ceiling”.

We met the band at the swish Mint Hotel on the bands of the River Clyde (unintentional cheap plug!) and after The Banter’s resident photographer extraordinaire Daren Borzynski took the excellent pictures which accompany this piece; me and the Twin Atlantic boys sat down and had a chat.

I had seen the band describe themselves as “epic” in a previous interview, and as a fan of the band it is a description I agree with but as a “crusading journalist” I wanted to find out what was “epic” about the band’s new album Free.

“I love that, what an opening statement!

“That makes us sound like idiots.” laughs Sam, he continues: “What is epic about the new album? I would say our ambition is pretty epic, we are just four normal guys from Glasgow that have had a pretty ordinary upbringing we don’t have any crazy past stories or anything like that but we are trying to make a rock album that hopefully stands the test of time and lasts for as long as people are fans of rock music.

“So I think that is a pretty epic ambition.

“When we said before that we think we are epic, I think we were just trying to get people’s attention and make a statement.”

I asked the band about their latest video for their new single Free and if they see music videos as extension of their music.

Ross said: “We are always too spur of the moment and just make the video and then look back and think I wish we could have done that.”

Craig, who is sporting a marvellous moustache that Newcastle Uniteds Joey Barton would be jealous of, chimes in: “Part of me wishes we could be one of those bands like Weezer, where the video is a talking point but I think the video can also take away from the song.”

Ross: “We had a first this morning, we had a conference call with the director for the next video and we haven’t done that before, we usually just wheel up and be like “let’s go”.”

Sam believes that the band “put so much into the music” by the time the video comes round, the band are just like “aye, cool, whatever” and they’ve learned that they need to care.

Barry :“If it was up to us, I generally don’t think we wouldn’t do videos, I’m going to be honest I don’t enjoy doing them.

“The concept of shooting a video is just so far removed for what you normal do in your job, which is rehearsing and performing for live audiences and there is a massive difference between playing in a dimly lit club and having loads of bright lights in front of you and you are miming one of your own songs to like twenty guys pointing cameras at you.

“It is such an awkward thing to do, which I think in a lot of music videos the bands look uncomfortable, and it is probably because they are.”

Ross says he would be quite happy to commission “three minutes worth of something that we thing looks amazing.”

When it came to the writing of the album Free, was it a collaborative process or does each member do individual bits and then you all sit down and bring it together?

Sam: “It is a bit of all of that, I suppose there is a driving force from me, because it is pretty much 100% my lyrical content and it tends to be the vocal melody that classical shapes the song so I suppose there is a big driving force from my end on that.

THE BANTER | 11

Interview

“I suppose on Free, that took a bit more of a primarily role, it use to be like 70% I would bring of a song then we would all work on it at practice and all making decisions on it but I think we’ve all got better at song writing that the songs I brought forward this time, all stayed a bit more true to their original vision but I think that’s because we have learned to write songs together and what we like and don’t like.

“There are songs on Free, for instance there is an instrumental piece on there called Serious Underground Dance Vibes, that Barry wrote the whole piece of music but we would all write our parts with him and push and pull on little elements.

“It is collaborative but there is usual one person directing it.”

I asked the band with the new album set to be released (it will be on shelf when you read this –Go Buy It!-) do they feel more pressure stemming from the release of Free than anything they’ve done before?

Barry: “For me, the only pressure we would feel is the pressure we’ve put on ourselves, it’s tough because as far as the album goes it is done, it is finished and there is nothing we can do, short of going into the studio to re-record the record, there is nothing we can do to change it.

“We’ve all recorded a record that we are really proud of, all four of us are really proud of it and we wouldn’t have done it another way.

“People are going to like or they are not and there is nothing we can do to change people opinion’s of the music people either like it or they don’t and it is the same with our live show, we work really hard to put on a great live show and again people will come and hear the new songs and either like them or they don’t.

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“We will just have to wait and find out.”

Sam: “Our expectations aren’t too big or unrealistic, there is nothing ridiculous, when we started the band we said as long as we move forward and progressing there would be a positive result.”

In the beginnings of the band, they received advice for their compatriots in Biffy Clyro and Aerogramme to take every opportunity they we given as being so far north of where the music industry is based had its disadvantages, Sam: “In hindsight there are probably some shows we shouldn’t have played, that confused people about the type of band that we are but the fact that we did do it, we might have opened up people to a different type of music.”

The list of bands that Twin Atlantic have supported or shared a stage with, reads like a who’s who of the rock music industry, so who do the band believe have been most important in their career?

Sam: “It is hard to pin point, individual and as a band as we have all picked up different things from supporting every band and it is hard to decipher which one is most important or which one has made us enjoy being in a band.

“When we toured with The Subways, they showed us it is important to put on a show as a rock band and just standing there isn’t enough.

“Biffy showed us how important it was to be a tight live band, Blink 182 showed us that it was important that the people that were coming to your show were coming for a good time and that you could laugh and relax, Fall of Troy showed us how to have a good time and be total “rock n roll” and Gaslight Anthem taught us it was important to write songs with honesty.

Interview “Every single band has given us little bits and pieces to learn from and hopefully gives us a whole rounded unit but time will tell.”

Any Glasgow music fan will tell you the Barrowlands is The Mecca of the Glasgow music scene and for any Glasgow band to headline and sell out The Barrowlands is a dream come true, and this is exactly what Twin Atlantic will do come May 6, I want to get the guy’s thoughts on this momentous occasion.

Ross: “At this part of the interview you should just insert a big smiley face.”

Sam: “It is a piece of Glaswegian history and to get to be included in that is pretty weird, we are embracing and we want to put on the best show that venue is ever seen.

“We don’t want to be understated, shy and reserved about it and we don’t want people to think that is where we are peaking, this is just another notch for us in what hopefully is a long career.

“It feels all our other gigs have led up to this as we’ve played in every other venue in Glasgow except the Barrowlands but if we don’t treat it like any of the other steps that we have taken, we will all probably just freak out and forget or parts and the words and stuff.”

For the upcoming tour, can the crowds expect any big surprises at the shows?

Sam: “You know what we are doing, we are embracing the idea of being a rock band and that is the only way of explaining it.

“We are trying to embrace the element of transferring our song into the live format of what people expect from a rock band.

“We are just trying to transfer our show into that format where you run certain songs together and it runs smoothly and just embrace the idea of having a lot of people in a room in front of you.

“We will have to wait and see how it turns out, we might massively fail and people might be like “what you doing, that is pure sh*t”.”

At this point, the band hadn’t been announced for any festival, so I decided to be an investigative journalist and ask the all important question, “can we expect festival appearances the year?”

Barry: “We hope to be playing them all, hopefully.”

Sam: “But currently we aren’t playing any yet.”

Ross: “Honestly, we want to play them all but we don’t know what ones we are going to get to play.”

Sam: “Also you can’t play them all because there is loads of politics; if you play one you can’t play that one because the promoters don’t like each other.”

Barry: “It is basically like school playground rules but on a much more wacky adult level.”

Sam: “But we are willing to play the game, it is quite a funny game.”

With subtle hints and winks here and there, I gathered they would be at some of this year’s festivals but not which one.

It was coincidently announced that the band would be making their third appearance at T in The Park this year the day I wrote this article, so there you go I was right!

You want to know something else that I am right about?

This band, Twin Atlantic will smash through that metaphorical glass ceiling.

Competition :WIn tickets to Rockness

R

ockNess, dubbed “the most beautiful festival in the world”, has just announced this year’s stunning list of acts lined up for this summer’s monster party.

The mighty Kasabian will headline the Main Stage on the Friday, The Chemical Brothers on Saturday and Scotland’s very own Paolo Nutini finsihing things off on the Sunday night this is not one to be missed.

Lucky for you with The Banter Magazine are giving one lucky reader the chance to win a pair of weekend camping tickets for this years event.

For your chance to win with Rockness and The Banter all you have to do is answer the following simple question.

Where in Scotland is Paolo Nutini from?

Send your answers by e-mail to info@thebanter.co.uk with the heading Competition: Rockness along with telling us your name, age, address and e-mail address.

Winners will then be chosen at random! Good luck, competition closes May 31st 2011.

RockNess 2011 takes place 10-12 June, 2011 in the village of Dores, close to Inverness in the Scottish Highlands. Full Details and more acts at WWW.ROCKNESS.CO.UK THE BANTER | 13

Interview

twenty twenty interview // natasha reid Photo // Daren Borzynski

14 | THE BANTER

Interview

H

Greenday. However more recently, they explained, the band have been really into their chart stuff, listening to the likes of Jessie J and Katy Perry in the van which they say has helped in widening both their production and writing ideas.

Of course, there have been bands since, such as McFly which have, undoubtedly, proved very successful in offering their condolences to the broken hearted. However, it is about time there were fresh, new faces on the bedroom walls of Britain’s teenagers.

“I think we have grown as better writers. We write lyrically about anything we feel like really. Sometimes we’ll go in on a day and feel like writing up-beat, sing-along songs that don’t mean much because they’re just fun to sing-along to but on other days we want to write about things that we want to get off our chest.” explains Sam.

aving just finished their tour with The Wanted, pop-rock trio Twenty Twenty are fast becoming the UK’s most exciting guitar band around since the demise of Busted which left teen fans across the country, myself included, lost and heartbroken.

And these faces have finally come in the very lovely form of new band Twenty Twenty. From Essex and Cambridge, Twenty Twenty formed in early 2009 when drummer, Sonny Watson-Lang, joined lead singer/guitarist, Sam Halliday and his brother and bassist of the band, Jack Halliday.

Sam was at University studying Product Design when he decided to take a year out to form the band. It was in this year that he and Jack met Sonny and they became very good friends.

“We never really had the intentions on doing this. We just thought we would jam out and see what we could do. When we started to actually go for it, we took it really seriously but we did not expect it to turn into this.”

Like any other band trying to break into the music industry, Twenty Twenty found it one of the most difficult challenges to face as a band so far, often playing to audiences in small bars who were not particularly interested in them.

“We just did as much promotion as we could, working hard playing the smaller shows that eventually got bigger over time.” explained Sam. “It’s definitely hard to get your foot in the door, but once you know where you are going and what you are doing you get on a bit of a roll.” agreed Jack with Sonny advising other young, aspiring bands finding themselves facing the same challenge to simply be totally committed.

“We have always said that you need to love what you’re doing and have fun with it and that is what we, as a band, are about.”

The fun factor that Twenty Twenty have is reflected in their music. Their sound is an infectious cocktail of pop and rock originally influenced by bands such as Blink 182 and

“The amount of songs that you hear from a band is so small in comparison to the amount of songs that have actually been written. We have written lots of songs that we haven’t taken on. Some days it’s like a couple of hours have past and there’s an amazing song but on others, hours have past and we have nothing.” adds Jack.

Last year, the band independently released their single “Worlds Apart” which reached No.8 in the Official Indie Singles chart and their video for “Get Down” also won the title of Kerrang Video Of The Week. Along with this success came a massive fanbase.

Twenty Twenty have created an incredible buzz with over 70,000 likes on Facebook and over 20,000 followers on Twitter and these numbers are increasing every day. They are undoubtedly a fan-friendly band which is what we love about them.

“We built ourselves up on sites such as Facebook and Twitter and they are so important for keeping in contact with our fans. Whenever we can we’ll reply to our fans online because at the end of the day, they are the ones that are coming to our shows and buying our CD’s.”

Twenty Twenty also celebrate every Tuesday as a TTtuesday uploading a video for their fans keeping them up to date with all things TT. “The videos came about because we have found ourselves a lot busier recently and we have less time to actually sit and chat to our fans online like we used to. With the videos, we try our best to interact with the fans and let them know why we have been so busy. They seem to be going down quite well.”

THE BANTER | 15

Interview

Twenty Twenty’s success so far certainly hasn’t gone unnoticed with the band recently being signed to major music label, Geffen records. “ Being signed to Geffen is definitely one of our biggest achievements and proudest moments so far. It is the level that we have always wanted to get to as it is for every band i’m sure. Not only are we signed by what, in our eyes, is one of the best labels out there but we now have a great platform for us to be able to get out there and do more.” smiles Sam. “It is a new chapter for us. I know that a lot of people think that because we’re signed we won’t be around as much, but it’s the total opposite. We are using this opportunity so that people see and hear more of us.” adds Jack.

And seeing and hearing more of them is definitely what we are going to be doing with their first single as a signed band having recently been released on April 17th. “Love to Life” is a fun, fresh and energetic track, written by the band and produced by Julian Emery who has previously worked with the likes of McFly. The song is about the chemistry of being with someone for the first time, getting together and bringing that “love to life”.

“We did it as quite an upbeat song because we knew that potentially a lot of people haven’t heard us before would hear it and it seemed like a good introduction to us.” says Sam. The single is the first to be taken from their debut album “Small Talk” which was released on the 2nd of May. “The album has something on it for everyone. While we love every song we write, we specifically chose those eight tracks on it because, even if you’re into your pop or your rock music, there will definitely be a song on there for you.”

It is clear that Twenty Twenty have worked so hard as a band to get where they are just now and they seem to have loved every second of it. They have been welcomed with open arms by the music industry and established a strong, dedicated fanbase along the way. Nothing, it seems, is stopping them from reaching their well deserved rise to superstardom and Britain’s teenagers need look no further for a fresh, exciting band to obsess over.

16 | THE BANTER

FINK

A world-class club DJ and electronic producer, Fink (real name Fin Greenall) decided to try his hand at the emotional, singer/songwriter stuff, with beautiful results.

With three critically acclaimed albums already under his belt, his new album is set to be released on June 13th this year.

“Perfect Darkness” is a collection of fiery, meaningful songs with stunning description and depth.

“Singer-songwriters always get criticised – fairly – for sometimes sounding like a scratched record,” says Greenall. “…moaning about this, moaning about that, girlfriend’s left you, blah blah, blah. With Fink we do sing about relationships and love and emotions – but we also sing about other stuff: embracing fear, Berlin dawns, looking forward. Perfect Darkness was written about a friend of mine who’s just signed a massive record deal and it’s all about to kick off. And I’m saying, ‘just roll with it man. It’s gonna get dark but you’ll survive and you’ll come out the other side.’ “ With such a wealth of experience in the music industry (Greenall has written songs for John Legend, Amy Winehouse and Ximena Sarinana), Fink has harnessed all that energy and talent from behind the scenes and channelled it into his own work.

Now, it is Fink’s time to shine and his success is set to go off like a firework.

kate chambers

Interview Su in 2008.

How would you describe your music?

Alternative folk/dark pop for the broken hearted. Someone once described my music as ‘gentle, melodic, and colourful songs that curl up in your head’.

How do you go about writing songs? Is there a particular process?

I always write the music first, followed by the lyrics. I have a fairly unconventional approach to song writing; I can’t force the creative process and that’s probably why I don’t write as consistently as your ‘typical’ songwriter. The subject matter of my songs is the same as that of most songs; things I feel, people I know, places I’ve been; but I choose to write about them in a less obvious way.

Why the love of pandas?

Panda’s are quite solitary creatures and I’m quite a private person. When I started writing music I wanted to set myself apart from all the other female singer/songwriters releasing music at the time, and the panda’s image was instantly recognisable and the perfect fit. Aside from all that, I genuinely find them incredibly interesting and endearing creatures.

What’s the new EP like?

P

anda Su has built up quite a mysterious public image around her. After the critically acclaimed EP ‘Sticks and Bricks’ last year, and her music appearing in the likes of Skins, her name has begun to float around music industry ears quite confidently, but as yet without the mainstream recognition that tends to follow such events.

The new EP ‘I Begin’ from the half-Portuguese, half-Fifer, Highlands born singer-songwriter was released last month to much underground hype, and judging from that it seems there’s plenty more complexity and depth behind those panda eyes.

How did you get into making music?

I first started making music when I was ten years old, on a Yamaha keyboard that I got for Christmas. I used to re-write the lyrics to Edelweiss and House of The Rising Sun. At school, I took drum lessons and played percussion for five years, before picking up a guitar at the age of 16. I learned my first chord in the back of my parents’ car on the way home from the music shop. I started writing music as Panda

The songs on I Begin are a little more experimental than the first EP. The four songs that featured on Sticks and Bricks were four of the first songs that I had ever written and had a fairly simplistic approach. I Begin represents a slight move in direction for me musically, I’ve picked up an electric guitar for this record and also dabble with drum programming and some more electronic instruments.

What can people expect from your live shows?

The live shows are a little different from the sound you hear on record. Because I Begin is a little more experimental than my other material, I’ve been trying to experiment with the live-set up too. I’ve been using an electric guitar on stage and we’ve picked up some weird and wonderful instruments along the way. Now all I need is a day off to learn how to use them properly…

What are your plans for 2011?

We did a preview tour for the new EP in February and had our official I Begin launch show last week. We got the chance to play some shows in Europe last year which was great, so I’m hoping to get back out there at some point this year. Other than that, we’ll be playing some sun-kissed festivals up and down the country this summer, before pilling back into the panda bus to complete another UK tour later on in the year.

THE BANTER | 17

Music

cd reviews foo fighters Wasting Light columbia  When Foo Fighters went back into the studio to record their seventh studio album, fans around the world were expecting great things. After all it was back in 2007 that their last record ‘Echoes, Silence, Patience & Grace’ was released so we’ve been waiting quite a while. And even though the band released a greatest hits record during that gap with two new tracks on it, it didn’t fill the void. Then it was announced that Butch Vig would be producing it, the same Butch Vig that is responsible for ‘Nevermind’ by Nirvana – suddenly the excitement surrounding the album grew tenfold.

‘Bridge Burning’ kicks the new album off – it’s fast, heavy and everything you imagine a great Foo Fighters song to be. It’s has that fast paced nature of previous songs which is enough to keep the old fans interested and more to bring in a whole new army of dedicated followers. It short, it’s a cracking open to an ambitious and excellent record. ‘Rope’ is the first single to be taken from the album, it’s an average song at best and with a record full of such great tracks it’s a surprise to say the least it’s being chosen to launch the album. ‘Arlandria’ and ‘White Limo’ are two highlights – both are full of energy, attitude and that classic Foo Fighters formula. But it’s ‘I Should Have Known’ that turns out to be one of the real gems of the record. Situated near the end of the album, it proves that all good things come to those who wait. It starts of slow and mellow with Dave’s voice speaking volumes over the music then towards the end of the song, the emotion and anger in his singing is a lot more apparent taking over the track leaving the hairs of the back of your neck standing tall. The song also features Krist Novoselic which for long term fans just adds to the magic of the song.

The record not only made it to number one in the UK but took the top spot in countries round the world. The record is also possibly one of the best Foo Fighters albums in the last 10 years.

SARAH MOYES

18 | THE BANTER

raphael saadiq Stone Rollin’ Columbia  Raphael Saadiq born Charles Ray Wiggan, 4th studio album, Stone Rollin’ is perfectly positioned to reach chart heights as it emerges alongside Cee-lo Brown, Amy Winehouse and Adele’s Mo-town revival with old school class which might finally garner him mainstream celebrity in the UK and widen his loyal band of followers.

The track list includes titles Go to Hell, Just Don’t and Over You which give an unnerving feeling of a darker album than expected, or indeed if you are new to Saadiq, darker than you might like but with his classic wit and charm the songs give over to reveal more the central character than whom they are being sung about. In Just Don’t Saadiq opens with a refrain not unlike classic 90’s pop and launches into a self deprecating rendition of how easy it is to lose love and the impassioned plea that people ‘just don’t’ remind him that it was his own actions that cost him the girl. With an easy drum beat and relaxed hook it is one of the most accessible songs in the album to new comers. Saadiq uses his years of experience in the industry to transport the listener from contemporary R ‘n’B to the early 20’s nightclub jazz of America’s deep south, with handclapping rhythms and double bass lines, Day Dreams brings the listener to the classic origins of soul and the heart of the album. A stand out track is Good Man which demonstrates Saadiq’s rich vocals and mature song-writing that cements his reputation where he honours as much as he borrows from, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles and Marvin Gaye.

Saadiq’s latest offering moves seamlessly from vintage soul to modern R’n’B and reminds the listener how much today’s contemporary music scene owes to the past and the final drum laden track, Go to Hell is a triumphant end that will have you shouting love has brought us to Saadiq and ‘Love has brought us together.’ heather campbell

Music panic at the disco Vices and Virtues atlantic  It’s been three years since Panic! At The Disco last released a record and during that time the band split in two. Guitarist Ryan Ross and bass player Jon Walker left the band in July 2009 for creative differences leaving lead singer Brendon Urie and drummer Spencer Smith to carry on the band and get back into the studio to produce this new record. For many fans this split was heart breaking but for others the return to the sound of their debut album was met by joyous cheers. There’s no denying this record goes back to the roots of the band, something which is clear on lead single ‘The Battle of Mona Lisa’ and even the video for the single has the hats, make up and dramatic scenery which was so prominent in their early releases. ‘Always’ is as close to a ballad as you will probably get with P!ATD and while it upbeat songs suit the band more, it’s always nice to see them try their hand at something else. ‘Sarah Smiles’ and ‘Hurricane’ are two of the real highlights of the record, both are different with the latter laced with a faster tempo yet both carry the bands distinctive sound of infectious lyrics and complex lyrics. It was always going to be a risk making a new record with half your band missing but Brendon and Urie have shown what’s possible and given us a good glimpse into the long term future of the band. sarah moyes twin atlantic Free Red bull  I am not going to lie, I am a bit of a Twin Atlantic fan boy and when I got given their debut full length album Free a few weeks before its release, I was a very happy fan boy indeed! Free had a lot to live up to in my opinion, as the band’s debut mini album Vivarium is phenomenal and still receives regular airing on my iPod nearly two years after its release. Since the release of Vivarium, Twin Atlantic have been reaching new heights and achieving new milestones and in my opinion Free is only going to take them to bigger and better places. With the help of legendary producer Gil Norton, the Glaswegian four-piece have created a special album that matches all expectations and ultimately surpasses them.

Free kicks off with the sounds of squealing feedback before launching into the jagged opening riff of lead single Edit Me, which is undoubtedly a highlight of the album. It is hard to pick out stand out tracks on the album as with every listen, you acquire a new favourite track, at first it is Edit Me then it is the title track Free then you fall in love with the instrumental piece Serious Underground Dance Vibes then it is Eight Days, I could go on to list the remaining nine tracks but I’ve got a word count to stick to! Every song on the album is different from the last but the album still achieves the remarkable feat of feeling like one piece of work rather than four singles separated by some filler tracks and this is a testament to the band and producer Gil Norton to achieve this on your debut full-length album is remarkable and their reward looks set to be bigger and better things.

maxwell lynas

the Pigeon detectives Up, Guards And At ‘Em! dance to the radio  Unfortunately for The Pigeon Detectives, it seems they haven’t quite established how to reignite the same hype that first brought our attentions to the critically acclaimed indie group.

The bands second album ‘Emergency’ lacked the same oomph as their promising debut ‘Wait For Me’ and the band soon went into hiding. Their comeback album ‘Up, Guards and At ‘Em!’ showcases a newfound experimentation with synthesizers – which can only be guessed as a common approach to try and shake up their image.

Opening track She Wants Me sounds like it should be distributed within an 80s bar – electro riffs and repetition of lyrics make this the songs perfect setting. However lead singer Matt Bowman’s voice lacks any hint of definition that could have given this track the credibility it needed. Like the name of the album’s second track Lost, The Pigeon Detectives seem unable to keep up a consistent flow of music throughout. The band appeared to have lost hindsight to where they were going with this mixed up album. A lack of energy and originality leaves the listener bored after the first track.

Throughout the album remains a glimmering hope for the indie-group, it’s clear they still retain their instrumental talent.

Catchy riffs and dance melodies in songs such as What Can I Say? and Done In Secret display some of the bands finer moments. However their attempt at a new sound withered and failed within the first ten seconds of the album, leaving them with some confused, uninspired tracks which display little progression from the band. The Pigeon Detectives may have left it too little too late. And gathering the lengthy break taken to produce this mediocre album (3 years), it doesn’t showcase half the talent apparent within their first album.

A little disappointing, don’t expect anything memorable if you’re planning this as you’re next purchase. lisa boyle

THE BANTER | 19

Music erland and the carnival Nightingale full time hobby  After hearing the single “Map Of An Englishman” a couple of months ago, personally I was looking forward to the forthcoming album from Erland & The Carnival. However I’m afraid to say that it has been a disastrous let down. Track one, “So Tired In The Morning” did start the record on an encouraging note. The rattling guitars and military drums vaguely reminded me of “The Smiths”. The second track was the single “Map Of An Englishman” which drew my attention towards Erland & The Carnival originally.

After the two opening tracks the album suddenly transforms into a clutter of experimental riff-raff that disappoints on every level. The songs are uninspiring, with dull lyrics that tend to drone on and on.

Each song splodges into the next which makes this album a chore to listen to, and when the final track concluded I was left with a bitter taste of disappointment. jack chambers

battles Gloss Drop WARP.  ‘Gloss Drop’ is a record which, while nowhere near the standards of the debut ‘Mirrored’, is well worthy of a band of Battles’ quality.

While ‘Mirrored’ delved darkly into the unknown abyss, ‘Gloss Drop’ plays around in the mud at the bottom. It still has the surroundings of an endless tomb of mystery but its attitude is more light-hearted and almost tongue in cheek, perhaps playing with elements of ironic cheeriness.

Opener ‘Africastle’ is a slow teasing burner, nothing like the rest of the album. It opens almost like a ‘previously on...’ for the band, reminding old listeners of the band’s style and giving a basic background to casual listeners, before launching into the band’s token frantic nature.

It’s with ‘Ice Cream’ where they start taking things in a happier direction. It opens with a looping of what sound like sexual grunts and soon builds a series of rhythms which wouldn’t be too out of place in a daytime TV advert, but the chopped up vocals soon bring things back to the classic experimental level.

Some of the songs are near ridiculous in their playfulness, whether it’s the ice cream van-like melodies in ‘Inchworm’ or the poppy structure of ‘Sweetie & Shag’. In a lot of ways though this only adds to what it is that makes Battles so unique, a sense of unexplainable and unrefutable experimentation without a worry in the world, the dictionary for which could easily contain the word ‘fun’, which this album is. That said there are enough serious moments to ensure the album is still tantalising enough.

It’s easy to compare the achievements of ‘Mirrored’ to this relatively sub-standard second release, but given that the very essence of Battles’ music is to not care about standards, it’s hard to find much fault with an album which focuses so harshly on the present. Not much progression, but plenty of pleasing filler.

hamish gibson

20 | THE BANTER

twenty twenty Small Talk geffen  ‘Small Talk’ is the debut, mini album from fan-friendly, pop-rock trio Twenty Twenty.

Having independently released singles including “Worlds Apart” and “Forever” over a year ago before being signed to major music label, Geffen Records, the mini album comes as a teaser of the, no doubt, exciting things to come from the band.

After the incredible buzz created over recently released single, “Love To Life”, fans will be pleased to hear that the album follows a similar theme, that of energetic pop mixed with the punk rock sound that the band originated from.

Another element of the album which fans will be pleased about are the anthemic sing-along chorus’s filled with many “woah-oh’s” as featured in the second track of the album, “Get Down”.

However, for those of you not yet familiar with the band and are perhaps not particular into your fun sing-along songs, then please do not write the album off just yet. Yes there are even tracks on here for you.

“The Puppeteer”, for example, is slower paced and is almost deeper compared to the rest, with the lyrics revealing the feeling of love being controlled entirely by the other person and your emotions being played with. Twenty Twenty really show themselves to be fantastic writers with this song and it is surely going to be a future hit.

Another great song, which is sure to be future hit also, is the closing track of the album, “Love’s a Freak”. The song is slightly more rock than pop and you’ll definitely be singing “Love’s a freak and you’re a freak like me” long after hearing it.

Overall, Small Talk undoubtedly has something for everyone, as promised by the band. If pop-rock is your thing then this is the album for you, but for all the non pop-rockers out there I am sure that this will fast become your guilty pleasure. natasha reid

Music the leisure society Into the Murky Water full time hobby  “Into the Murky Water” is the title given to the new album released by The Leisure Society. The opening track shares the same name, as well as an uncanny resemblance to a musical number from Disney’s “Aladdin”. However, the song does exactly what it says on the tin, giving the record a “murky” theme with its mysterious tune and eerie lyrics.

The album continues down a positive path, with “Dust On The Dancefloor” giving off some nice cheesy 60’s vibes. The fifth track on the record “Although We All Are Lost” would slot nicely into a Christian rock festival whereas “Phantom Life” would surely be a hit with Indie fans worldwide. “Just Like The Knife” finishes the album off nicely with some high-strung Hawaiian melodies, which help to stroke a smile on to your face.

There are many tracks within the album that bare similarities to Divine Comedy and perhaps a hint of Bombay Bicycle Club, however this is in no way a negative thing Unfortunately the record remains “murky” even when it ends.

It appears to be a collage of contrasting tunes rather than having a strong musical theme. Nevertheless the album itself is fun and easy to listen to. If you’re a fan of the Disney classics, then this is the album for you. jack chambers lets wrestle Nursing Home full time hobby  The cheeky-chaps from Let’s Wrestle display their weird but wonderful sense of humour within ‘Nursing Home.’ The captivating group stick to what works for them best in this new album, which could be deemed ageist if the lyrics are anything to go by. ‘Nursing Home’ starts off with the super-fast track In Dreams Part 2, an indie rock anthem which is typically fun but gets a bit irritating after a while. In The Suburbs is another upbeat summery rock track, however it is hard to ignore the stumbling vocals which somehow override the clever lyrics.

For My Mother is one of the albums few slower tracks, which is an endearing account of the passing of a loved one. Again, although most of the albums songs sport some impressive hooks and instrumentals, clumsy vocals and an inability to reach any high notes where needed can make some of the tracks seem unbearable after a while. I’m So Lazy is one of the best tracks on the album, a perfect number for those who love a bit of raw heavy metal to rock to. I Am Useful is reminiscent to the sound of English Indie band White Lies, with much less meaningful lyrics of course.

Nursing Home provides a change from the usual electro-tainted tracks of the music charts today. Let’s Wrestle’s alternative punk-rock sound may be difficult for mainstream music lovers to adapt to at first but there’s no doubt that fans of the bands previous albums will be best pleased with this new effort.

There’s no point pouring out a glass of red to listen to this.

Grab your wildest friends and a case of beers before popping on this wacky, energetic album. lisa boyle

toy horses Toy Horses Albino Sparrow Records  Toy Horses exceeded their status long before anyone had even got to hear their album. Tipped as the next big thing, the indie-rock duo of Adam D Franklin and Tom Wilkins has impressed music critics greatly – and it’s no surprise why. Automatically the similarities to other groups are evident. Toy Horses offer Beatles-esque melodies composed with Libertines guitar riffs topped with the poppy, cheesiness of Scouting for Girls. Although opening track Play What You Want is undeniably catchy, it appears a little too familiar to what’s been done before. Track Sordid Little World combines angelic vocals with rhythmic drumming and acoustic instrumentals, exuding a sixties inspired sound making it one of the best tracks on the album. Toy Horses genius lyrics give evidence towards the credibility of the group, however they risk being deemed copycats, as the tracks feel far too familiar.

Although each track reminds you of yet another band, this provides variety for the listener to remain tuned in throughout. Last Chance is a stunning slow ballad which conveys obvious emotion throughout the vocals, which glide smoothly alongside the slow strumming of an acoustic guitar. The flow of the album is consistently interrupted, with one slow song suddenly jumping to that of a football hooligan’s song.

Following the sweetness of track Last Chance comes Loyal To The Cause, a raucous Libertines-style track with punchy guitar riffs and Doherty style swearing. So far it’s all a tad confusing.

Despite the inconsistency of the music flow throughout this album, Toy Horses will be sure to attract audience’s attention.

With a combination of pop, indie and rock tracks this album is breezy, infectious and ultimately loveable. Expect a lot more for this endearing stepfather and son duo – There’s no doubt these horses will be racing ahead. lisa boyle

THE BANTER | 21

Music tv on the radio Nine Types of Light polydor  Amid acting, producing, film-soundtracking and various other side projects, the members of TV on the Radio somehow found the time to record their latest offering ‘Nine Types’; and thank goodness they did.

Blending elements of funk, pop and even country, they have managed to produce an admirable and enjoyable follow up to Nine Types’ predecessor, ‘Dear Science’.

TV on the Radio have come a long way since recording their first album in lead singer Tunde Adebimpe’s Brooklyn loft and, from the insanely catchy opener ‘Second Song’ to the tenderness of love song ‘Keep Your Heart’, there’s plenty to suggest that this band continue to go from strength to strength.

jack mckenna

cloud control Bliss Release

innerpartysystem Never Be Content dance to the radio  A Innerpartysystem return with their second EP ‘Never Be Content’ which sees the band shifted their sound away from the rock influences of previous releases towards a more synth dominant and dance oriented sound.

This is the bands first EP with new label Red Bull Records and it’s clear that they are out to impress. The opening track ‘And Together’ layers pulsating beats with electronic sweeps that are reminiscent of Does It Offend You Yeah and Daft Punk. The six tracks are an exciting blend of undomesticated electronic dance music with beats and rhythms that are destined to liven up any dance floor.

‘American Trash’ has a pounding techno beat underlying a fantastic serrated robotic rhythm with entrancing vocals, a real standout track full of energy. The synth breakdowns present throughout the album escalate into explosions of energetic beats and synth sounding rhythms. One of the more traditional club like tracks is ‘Out of Touch’ which consists of infectious synths and auto-tuned vocals. The final track ‘Squid’ has a distinctive industrial feel to it with a distant Nine Inch Nails echo to it.

‘Never Be Content` is an EP with enormous energy expressed through dance influenced tracks with filtered vocals and great synth breakdowns. The way the tracks build up, linger and then eclipse into captivating beats is well executed. The industrial feel to it displays the diversity which the band is capable of and fits well within the tracks. Innerpartysystem have refined their sound and illustrated their talents with this intrepid EP release.

tony connolly

22 | THE BANTER

atlas/a&m  Cloud Control’s debut album ‘Bliss Release’ opens with a soft psych-folk rhythm with, enchanting dreamy vocals from Alister Wright and Heidi Lenffer. Seconds later the cool distorted rifts kick in and you instantly feel the excitement and ingenuity of the Australian four-piece.

The band’s album was released in Australia last year where it received numerous awards, including the prestigious Australian Music Prize. Upon listening to the first few songs on the album, it is apparent that their popularity in Australia is with good reason. The album is full of standout songs and has a captivating and hypnotising flow throughout.

‘Death Cloud` is the third song on the album and really illustrates what this band is about. Distorted psychedelic rifts and dreamy chants emerge into exciting waves of rhythm on which Alister and Heidi’s vocals intertwine through in perfect harmony. The songs gentle psych-folk feel ascends to the catchy choirs of ‘Maybe it’s a death cloud’, a really beautiful and instantly awesome song.

The song ‘Gold Canary’ is one of Cloud Control’s breakthrough songs that really caught the attention of the Australian indie scene. Drummer Ulrich Lenffer and bassist Jeremy Kelshaw provide enchanting, ethereal backing vocals alongside Heidi’s Ooohs and Aaahs, to create a real psych-folk feel. The relaxing rhythm and Alister’s hypnotising vocals create a cool and alluring sound.

One of the most beautiful acoustic songs on the album is ‘Just for Now’. It has a real chilled out feel to it and displays the bands raw talents and clearly illustrates the folk elements present throughout the album. This song has elements of Fleet Foxes to it however Heidi’s backing vocals on this track are a clear example that Cloud Control is a unique and stellar band in itself.

‘Bliss Release’ is an incredibly mature and polished debut album which is easy to listen to and quickly captivates the audience. Alister and Heidi’s dreamy vocals strike a perfect harmony and intertwine beautifully with Ulrich and Jeremy’s flawless instrumentation. The perfect summers day soundtrack.

tony connolly

Music alexis jordan Credo Wall of sound  Alexis Jordan’s self-titled debut album kicks off with her two successful top ten chart hits, Happiness and Good Girl. The up tempo songs are a massive feature throughout this album which is what you would expect from this young, up and coming artist. Alexis manages to breathe a wave of fresh air into the female pop market with her catchy dance tunes – perfect listening while getting ready for a night out! Tracks to skip to definitely include new single Hush Hush, scheduled to be released on May 8, which will undoubtedly be another top ten hit in perfect time for summer. And Habit for those who like pop with an electro twist. With a lot of competition on the female artist front, this album certainly screams that Alexis Jordan has arrived.

The album features several ballads, which you would expect from a pop album. Avid Alexis Jordan fans may find this surprising as it is not her usual genre, however she pulls the tracks off with her usual flair and style.

She’s gone from an unknown contestant on America’s Got Talent back in 2006, to a YouTube sensation spotted by major record companies. She is now part of the Star Roc/ Roc Nation label who, let’s not forget, are behind massive artists such as Rihanna and Jay Z . Since launching this debut album, which is already a top ten success, Alexis has been signed to support JLS on part of their UK tour this summer. This edgy lady is certainly someone to keep an eye on within the UK chart scene based on the success of this album and the powerhouse label behind it.

rachael mchard

cats eyes Cats Eyes Polydor  The front man of The Horrors, Faris Badwan has teamed up with Rachel Zeffira, an opera singer and classically trained instrumentalist to produce this self titled album which sounds like nothing we’ve heard from either of them before. ‘Cat’s Eyes’ has an other worldly vibe to it, with a mellow, yet almost tribal sound which may sound like an impossibility but is a definite achievement! Combining orchestral boldness with outré sound effects results in a relaxing collection of sounds and vocals, rather than something which could really be identified as an album of songs. The whole album, ‘The Best Person I Know’ and ‘Bandit’ in particular remind me of lying on your back in a swimming pool with your ears underwater where everything sounds distorted, and I mean that in the best possible way, almost like watching the video for the Scissor Sisters cover of ‘Comfortably Numb’. This is an album I would listen to to help me drift off to sleep, or to chill out with, you won’t find yourself tapping your feet or dancing along but there is definitely something likable about Cat’s Eyes and I’m not even going to attempt to put this album into a genre because they have a sound all of their own, distorted and discordant sounds which come together into something which is entirely unique and surprisingly listenable.

louise anne geddes

one to watch for

ED SHEERAN

E

d Sheeran has been working hard since leaving school and moving to London at the tender age of 16, to pursue his music career. Now 20-yearold Ed is embarking on a highly anticipated sold out UK tour, playing a staggering 40 dates throughout the country.

His sound has been described as a fresh union mix of hip-hop, acoustic and folk, and this unique sound has earned him a loyal fan base, who were following him long before he was signed up to Asylum Records (part of Atlantic Records) in early 2011.

Through hard work and determination, Ed had already self-released 5 E.P’s selling tens of thousands of copies out of his backpack at gigs, his website and digital stores before any label had even heard of him.

With his fresh new single “The A-Team” being released on June 13th, Ed Sheeran is tipped to be one of 2011’s hottest artists and is sure to reap the reward of all his hard work.

kate chambers

THE BANTER | 23

Interview

YASMIN INTERVIEW BY NATASHA REID

24 | THE BANTER

Interview

DJ

and singer/songwriter, Yasmin, may have worked alongside artists such as Devlin, Taio Cruz and Example, but she is certainly ready to make her mark as an independent, fully fledged artist in her own right.

quickly signed to Levels Entertainment, a Ministry of Sound imprint, through which she released her debut single “On My Own” at the beginning of this year. The song reflects Yasmin’s individuality and independence.

Many female artists under the hip hop and R&B genre of music seem to end up as permanent residents of One Hit Wonder Central with the likes of Estelle, Keri Hilson and Ashanti for neighbours. However, it seems unlikely that Yasmin will be joining them anytime soon.

“I’m starting to realise, the more that I’m writing, that independence is a recurring theme in my songs. I am quite an independent person. It’s one of they things where if you want something done sometimes it’s better to do it yourself.

When I moved to London, I was nineteen and didn’t know a lot of people. Doing DJ gigs meant I’d be getting trains at 10pm to get to work and then at 3am to come back. I’d be sitting in Kings Cross Station with a coffee from the 24 hour Starbucks myself. I’ve never been one of those people with tag alongs or anything. I just sort of get on with it really. A lot of times when you are yourself, sitting there, you have a lot of time to reflect and think about what you are doing and you realise how isolated the business can be. That is what my song was about and indeed what a lot of my other songs have been inspired by.”

Beginning at seventeen, Yasmin realised that music was something she could seriously do as a job.

“Music has always been a passion and something I was really into. It was when I started DJ’ing and began making a little bit of money from it that I began to take it seriously.”

Yasmin was born in Manchester but moved to Glasgow when she was still young. It was here that she began DJ’ing in a few bars and clubs such as Kushion

“On My Own” charted number 39 in the official UK singles chart.

“Starting out in Glasgow was great. It was very much about the music unlike the glitz and glam in London. It can be very easy to become trapped in the superficial aspect of it all. The other Dj’s in Glasgow really installed in me how important it is to remain focused on the music and take every opportunity I get.”

Yasmin took their advice and when the opportunity came to relocate to London, she grabbed it with both hands. This proved to be a move worth making as she began to get recognition from big industry names.

“I did some stuff for N.E.R.D and then met Taio Cruz through mutual friends. His single was doing really well in America and he wanted a DJ to do some shows, so he asked me. It was brilliant and a lot of fun.”

From there, Yasmin continued to grow rapidly supporting Example on his UK tour toward the end of last year.

“This was the first proper tour that I did. It was so much fun. We are on the same label and he’s been like a big brother to me.

He bullies me like a big brother would but looks after me too.

Doing the tour was hard work. Being on a tour bus is difficult in itself because you can get a bit of cabin fever. But it is worth it.”

Yasmin also featured on Devlins single “Runaway” which reached number fifteen in the official UK singles chart.

“We made the track in May of last year. I heard their song and it had no chorus. I quickly wrote something in my head, they liked it and went for it. To see it all come to life and doing the video was a lot of fun. That’s one of the perks of the job, to do the video, get your hair and makeup done etc. You get to do what you’ve been practicing in the mirror all these years.”

Whilst DJ’ing and working with other artists, Yasmin was also writing her own material and building a body of work. She was

“It was huge for me and you can never really expect these things. I’ve not been doing this for years so to have people buy my single and get it to the top 40 was great!”

Following the success of her first single, Yasmin is set to release her second single, “Finish Line” on the 8th of May. “The song is about a situation I think a lot of people have been in where no matter how much you like or love someone and how much you want it to work, it just doesn’t. It’s like you know in the back of your mind that you have to walk away.”

“People should buy it because it’s fresh. There’s not an awful lot of songs that sound like “Finish Line” does, of what I’m hearing.

I think it’s something different and so many people go on and complain about everything sounding the same. What I’m trying to do is bring that fresh sound back. If people want to hear more of it then great!”

For those of you that will find yourselves wanting to hear more of Yasmin, we can expect an album toward the end of Summer.

It has not yet been titled as they are currently wrapping it up, recording a final bits and pieces. Yasmin is also going to be busy through Summer performing at Glastonbury, Radio 1’s big weekend and several other UK festivals and events.

Yasmin has clearly worked hard on building a name for herself and it is apparent that she will continue to do so. Already a world class DJ, it is looking likely that she will reach the same level of success with her songwriting having gained the support and belief from some of the biggest names and artists in the music industry.

Scottish fans can see Yasmin live at the SECC on Saturday 18th June at In:Demand Live. For more information go to www.indemandlive.co.uk

THE BANTER | 25

Feature

the scots are coming T

he T in the Park bill will be infused with a stream of tartan blood this year as festival organisers DF Concerts and founding partner Tennent’s Lager recently announced a proud army of Scottish acts in the form of Big Country, Jon Fratelli, Roddy Woomble, Twin Atlantic, Emma’s Imagination, The Phantom Band, Found and Jack Townes are all to descend upon Balado on the weekend of 8th – 10th July 2011 along with the already announced Primal Scream, Calvin Harris, KT Tunstall and The View.

Making their T in the Park debut on the 30th anniversary of the band are rock giants Big Country, who have enjoyed phenomenal success with number one albums, Grammy nominations, sold out European tours and millions of record sales worldwide. They’ve shared stages with Led Zeppelin, The Rolling Stones, Bob Dylan and are one of the truly great live outfits to have survived the roller coaster ride of the Eighties.

Their star continued to shine until 2001 when frontman Stuart Adamson sadly passed away and it took until 2010 before the band felt ready to perform again as Big Country with Jamie Watson and singer Mike Peters leading the band back to glory to perform at T in the Park 2011.

26 | THE BANTER

The band said: “To be able to play at T in the park is a perfect opportunity for us to really celebrate our 30th anniversary in Scotland. Because the band was basically born in Fife, T is a fitting place to return to for this occasion. Stuart would have appreciated this, and we’re all looking forward to it.”

Glaswegian boys Twin Atlantic are poised for greatness - the group of fans who once held them as their little secret is growing rapidly and this number is set to multiply when they appear at T in the Park this year.

Word of mouth buzz about their intense live shows has built a rock solid base and the band has scored a sellout gig in Glasgow’s Barrowland this Friday 6th May. Ambitious debut mini-album, “Vivarium”, is packed with enormous sweeping riffs, moods that flit from light to shade, and impassioned vocals dripping with gorgeous Scottish vowels.

Jon Fratelli will appear solo on stage in Balado for the first time with brand new songs from his debut album “Psycho Jukebox”.

Chock full of the kind of solid gold easy action that makes you want to smile broadly, chant loudly, dance wildly, sing sweetly,

Feature grapple sweatily, drum manically, scream breathlessly and shout raucously, it’s perfect T in the Park material.

Jon said: “T in the Park was the first major festival I ever played and the first time I’d played in front of a circus tent full of people, that first time is still etched in my memory. I’m really happy to be going back to T, it’s always a highlight”.

Roddy Woomble, frontman of legendary Scottish alt-rock act Idlewild will woo the T in the Park crowd with dreamy lyrics and fully charged folk foot stompers from his latest solo album “The Impossible Song & Other Songs”. He paints a picture of his beloved western isles with layers of tuneful instruments that complement a voice full of soul. Known to treat fans to a travelling story or two between songs and with the chance of some Idlewild classics thrown into the mix, Woomble’s performance is set to shine.

Emma Gillespie AKA Emma’s Imagination has rarely done things the conventional way – she’s had two singles in the top ten at once, then shortly after, she signed her first recording contract.

This summer she’ll make her debut at T in the Park to play to thousands of fans who voted her the winner of Sky One’s talent show “Must Be the Music”.

Elusive Glasgow outfit The Phantom Band released their debut album “Checkmate Savage” in 2009 and recently released current album “The Wants”. Fans can expect to hear a myriad of different genres and hits from both during their much anticipated slot at Balado.

Also appearing at T in the Park this summer is Edinburgh based band Found. Recently signed to the Scottish musical institution that is Chemikal Underground, the group began life as an experimental arts collective putting on many weird and wonderful events in art galleries, warehouses and even storage containers.

Their unusual mix of garage rock, melodic pop and glitchy electronica has propelled them to the forefront of Scotland’s alternative music scene.

Teenage rock gods in the making Jack Townes were snapped up by record label giants Columbia on the merit of just one song and already have a tour with The View under their belt - good going for a band who have been together less than a year. The teenagers will join a roll call of legends and idols when they appear in Balado this summer.

The array of Scottish talent on show this year will be joined by headliners Arctic Monkeys, Coldplay and Foo Fighters as well as a whole host of mega star talent on a knock out bill.

For more information about this years T in the Park visit the official website at www.tinthepark.com

maxwell lynas

Benjamin francis leftwich

W

ith a growing number of influential admirers (Noah and The Whale and Fleet Foxes, to name but a few), Benjamin Francis Leftwich is the latest singer/songwriter to release a soothing, mellow collection of heart-achingly beautiful songs.

With the likes of “Pictures”, it’s clear that this man is creating music that makes our busy world stop and take notice.

His wonderful, soft voice is an essential after a stressful day.

Benjamin Francis Leftwich is complete chill out music!

His debut album “Last Smoke Before The Snowstorm” will be available from June 20th and with his new single “Box Of Stones” being crowned as Zane Lowe’s “Hottest Record In The World”, he looks set to hypnotise with his dreamy melodies.

kate chambers

THE BANTER | 27

Interview

her majesty

and the wolves Interview By Anna Gault

28 | THE BANTER

Interview

W

hen you are a member of one of the biggest girl groups in the world walking away from said girl group may seem like madness. But like Geri Halliwell before her former Pussycat Doll Kimberly Wyatt has taken that leap of faith and appears to have landed on her feet.

The Missouri native first came to the UK public’s attention as one sixth of the aforementioned Pussycat Dolls but has since gone on to become a judge on the UK’s TV dance competition ‘Got to Dance’. While she exercised her vocal chords to a certain extent in the Pussycat Dolls Wyatt started her career, first and foremost, as a dancer. At 14 she earned a scholarship to New York’s Joffrey Ballet and Broadway Dance Center. She spent two years dancing on a Caribbean cruise ship before moving to Los Angeles where Pussycat Dolls founder Robin Antin discovered her.

The 29-year-old spent six years in the sizzling sextet during which the limber dancer became known for her standing oversplit move. While she enjoyed her position in one the hottest girl groups since...ever Wyatt was unable, by her own admittance, to fully spread her wings and show her full potential. That is about to change however as her new pop outfit, Her Majesty and the Wolves are set to release their debut album ‘111’. Comprising of Wyatt and Spencer Nezey, a former member of American pop group Jupiter Rising, Her Majesty and the Wolves talked to The Banter about their beginnings, their new album and of course that name.

What can listeners expect from your debut album ‘111’?

Kimberly Wyatt: “It’s very eclectic. I think that there is a lot of inspiration going into this project and I think that the album really reflects that. It’s great because we are able to have live strings and have all of these incredible instruments and to play with them. There are so many incredible sounds out there and Spencer is just so talented when it comes to production and putting songs together and as we’ve created the album we’ve really got a lot of different feelings and hearing the album, it takes you on a journey, it takes you on a trip. Every song has a life of its own and I’m a fan of this project, I connect with the music. I just hope that our album is what inspires a lot of people out there as well.

How has working together been? Was it always harmonious?

SN: We have a cool core of people we work with and we are working really hard and I feel it has worked because we have so much fun. We are making great art. We are making great music but at the same time it’s just a really good hang.

How important is chart success for you guys?

SN: I think it is very important because we wouldn’t be able to get this project out there as massive as it possibly could you know? I think Kim dreams really really big and the vision that she has, I’m a fan of. For me personally, we went to Coachella [music festival] yesterday and saw Kanye West and I just thought ‘Man, we could do this’ and it was super inspiring and going a little further with it I would love for us to have that sort of success so we could pull something off like that too.

KW: That’s what is so fun about Her Majesty and the Wolves, with Spencer and I collaborating. Spencer really has an incredible background in music. And my background really is in dance and creating shows and lighting and visuals and how to

really create experiences. So I think by combining forces we’ve really got a chance to make something incredible.

How different is Her Majesty and the Wolves from what you have worked on previously?

KW: It’s almost night and day. It’s such a different experience.

For me this was really a chance to be lost in the creation every step of the way. I may be didn’t produce the music but I got sit and watch Spencer work his magic and bring incredible artists in. Being able to have those experiences and being inspired along the way and be there while the strings are playing their sections...It’s an experience that has inspired me as an artist that’s for sure. It’s the foundation for being able to go big.

Speaking of inspiration - what is inspiration behind the name of the band?

SN: A friend of mine kind of came up with that name. We were looking for something that could be bigger than two people or like Cirque du Soleil or something like that and we just came up with Her Majesty and the Wolves. The whole concept came from when people go to a Her Majesty and the Wolves show it’s like they are going to the opera or something like that. People will have this whole experience of Her Majesty and the Wolves it doesn’t just sound like two people putting on a show.

In the UK Kimberly, you are well known as a judge for ‘Got to Dance’, is Her Majesty and the Wolves a way of reminding the public that you are a singer too?

KW: I didn’t really lo ok at it like that. I always wanted to stay connected to the dance world and ‘Got to Dance’ just gave me the opportunity to give back to the dancers and you know, share the experiences that I’ve had. I’ve been dancing since I was seven so being able to, hopefully, give that inspiration and constructive criticism is my way to really stay connected to the dance world. Her Majesty and Wolves is my place to be a little fairy, it’s where I can really be free and I can be an artist.

As Americans, do you feel embraced by the UK public?

SN: Every time I’ve gone there it has been nothing but love. I think that the fans the ones who are really into our stuff, they are awesome here. They are a part of the family. They are very active on twitter and Facebook. It’s really nice.

How much pressure is there to succeed after leaving popular bands?

SN: This has been a lot of fun for me but it has definitely been a lot of work to stay focused but at the same time this is something I have been looking forward to. Coming from my prior projects I kind of endured them but with Her Majesty and the Wolves we can create this in the way that we want. I don’t feel a pressure on that because I know I can rely on people to do what they have to do.

KW: The only reason I even came to London was because of the support that I felt from the fans [of the Pussycat Dolls] and all the shows that we did, we had experiences of a lifetime.

I would see the big signs just with my name on it and the showering of affection. It’s kept me going and it has kept me going back. And I’ve had the opportunity to do some soul searching and having that foundation of fans like that gives me the confidence to push forward THE BANTER | 29

Feature Has The Icon Tweeted It’s Last Breath?

By Jack McKenna

A

s manufactured pop acts such as Kei$ha flaunt their way into the charts on the back of major label cheques books, devoid of anything remotely resembling a personality, our minds are cast back to a simpler time. When rock stars were rock stars, acting purely on instinct, adrenaline and whatever mind-altering substance they had taken that day. When twitter was the collective noun for a group of birds.

When a group of birds were all that Jagger, Hendrix, McCartney and Co. cared for.

A quick glance at today’s charts seemingly reveals a far more subdued cast list than their luminously illustrious predecessors. Have our modern day muso’s suffered at the hands of our insatiable, social networking, celebrity obsessed selves, or are we guilty of peering through rock ‘n rose tinted spectacles when referencing the old school of rock? Has the’ icon’ wilted and died or does it remain in full bloom?

The problem is that nowadays there’s nowhere to hide. Slip up and it’s plastered all over the papers, magazines and blogs.

Perhaps those in the spotlight nowadays are unable to lose 30 | THE BANTER

inhibition the way the likes of Hendrix and Jagger did in the past.

Of course, when Hendrix or Jagger were in their prime, sharing a drink or ‘acquainting’ themselves with a female fan would have been the extent of their ‘social networking’. Nowadays, social media has become unavoidable, in fact, vital. We inhabit an electronic age where talking, at least in the pre-social networking sense, has become obsolete. And yet, never before have we known so much about everyone. We have become the Facebook generation. We know what our friends are doing that day before we have even considered our own plans. We tweet, blog, post and poke, sharing anything and everything with anyone that will listen.

Society’s obsession with social media has become all-consuming, permeating into everything that we do.

So, perhaps we can excuse modern artists for following the #trend (get it?!), but has the social media phenomenon spelled an end to the romanticism of rock ‘n roll icons of old?

Feature

Award winning radio presenter and DJ, Jim Gellatly, remains unconvinced: “I think there’s still that element of mystery about old school icons from Dylan through to Elton and Bowie,” he reasons. “But that ‘romantic’ thing still applies to Pete Docherty and Amy Winehouse. I’m not sure today’s icons getting more exposure has changed things.”

Sadly, all sense of romanticism or mystery quickly disintegrates with every front page scoop featuring Ms. Winehouse’s latest antics. Perhaps, explains Gellatly, Amy Winehouse is a victim of her time: “Had she been around 30 years ago she would probably have been perceived more positively than she is now, but only because her ‘problems’ wouldn’t have been exposed as much and her people would have been in a position to keep things quiet.”

Arguably, Winehouse may have been afforded the same level of adulation as Debbie Harry had she ‘graced’ the planet three decades earlier and yet her obvious talent has become consigned to an afterthought.

However, Amy Winehouse’s record sales and resultant bank balance suggest we needn’t be too concerned for her. On paper, at least, she is one of, if not the, most successful female recording artists of her generation. Her two albums released to date have bagged her no more than five Grammy Awards, three Ivor Novello Awards, one BRIT Award and the third highest selling album of the noughties in the United Kingdom with second album ‘Back to Black’; hardly the achievements of one so seemingly vilified and abhorred.

The successes of the Docherty’s and Winehouse’s of this world would seem to indicate a predisposition on our own part for artists that ooze dysfunction and disregard, suggests Jim Gellatly: “People still like bad boys and girls, and they make far better copy. Marketing people know that.” By his own admission, the antics of his favourite icon, John Lyndon of the Sex Pistols, would be “tame by today’s standards”.

So, for some, the ‘don’t give a f**k’ attitude has helped rather than hindered however it is clear that they are becoming something of a dying breed. Media savvy, accessible and, dare we say it, slightly bland artists now rule the rock star roost.

Perhaps amidst our unquenchable, unrelenting nosiness, we only have ourselves to blame. It seems the rise of social media and celebrity gossip has forced the majority into an insipid submission. And so, as our collective faith in rock and roll dissipates with every new ‘wall post’, let us raise a glass to the likes of Winehouse and Docherty, for they are the last remaining remnants of a glorious by gone era; one we may never see the likes of again.

Scotlands top bands compete in the DF Concerts Charity Cup

S

ome of Scotland’s biggest bands recently participated in the first ever DF Concerts Charity Cup football tournament staged at Soccerworld in Glasgow.

The tournament was held to raise money for the ‘Save The Children Japan Emergency Appeal’ which is focusing its efforts on helping those children most affected by the recent earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

Amongst those playing on the day included The View, Two Door Cinema Club, Kassidy, We Were Promised Jetpacks, Hip Parade and She’s Hit. This year’s winners were We Were Promised Jetpacks who were worthy winners in what was an eventful final which ended in a penalty shoot-out against the Ultimate Vibes team. Hosts DF Concerts joined forces with Two Door Cinema Club to finish joint third in the tournament with Kassidy. The event was a great success with donations at over £1800 to date.

The Views Kyle Falconer said about the event “It was a pleasure to be involved in the tournament, especially for such a deserving charity. The work that the ‘Save The Children Japan Emergency Appeal’ do is life changing to the kids that were affected by the earthquake and tsunami.”.

THE BANTER | 31

the guillemots interview

interview by Jack McKenna

Interview

A

s I arrived to find the Classic Grand in complete darkness, I couldn’t help but think Guillemots were taking this secret show a tad too seriously. It was only after fumbling my way up two flights of stairs and bumping into drummer Greig Stewart that was I informed we were in fact experiencing a power cut.

Despite the future of the night’s show hanging in the balance, the band remained unfazed; none more so than frontman Fyfe Dangerfield who had already excitedly suggested an acoustic gig by candle light.

With tour manager Andy anxiously waiting for the lights to flicker on and the rest of the Guillemots outside lighting up, Fyfe took the time to enlighten me on all things Guillemots…

“It’s really good! It feels like we’re just coming into our own and we’re sort of getting to know where we fit more. Before this album we had a year of just writing and playing. This album just feels like the start, we love the album and we’re really proud of it.”

He was of course speaking about their latest release ‘Walk the River’ which is out this month, their first since Fyfe’s own successful solo project. Aside from the immediate gratification of sound tracking a John Lewis ad and breaking into the top 10, going it alone has had a lasting impact on his approach to being a front man.

He explained: “I think doing my own solo gigs gave me more confidence to perform. Maybe because it had to rest on me even more I couldn’t afford to not be in the right mood to do a show and I think it feels like its levelled me out a bit when it comes to gigs in terms of having to get in that mind-set.

It’s quite hard, because I don’t like to put it on, but you have to sort of somehow get in that mind-set of wanting to play a gig even if it’s the last thing you feel like doing.”

Now on their third album, the Guillemots have managed to retain an air of credibility while remaining fairly successful.

So much so, stated a bemused Dangerfield, that the band’s fan base now encompasses ”anything from old hippies to Coronation St style mums, teenage girls and real jack the lads.”

So then, what can this eclectic mix of misfits expect of the latest Guillemots instalment?

“I’m no good at talking these things up!” he laughed. “It’s a very dreamy record. I wouldn’t call it a pop record but I think it is really melodic. There was just an atmosphere we wanted to capture; this sort of vastness, this expanse. The more I’ve thought about it i think it’s an album about rebirth and pain, but having to come through pain and knowing there has to be a future even though you can’t see it. There’s a lot of

sadness on the record but I think it’s still quite hopeful. It was all about an atmosphere.”

Aside from the recurring theme of melancholy, ‘Walk the River’ has seen the band discard the busy, instrument laden approach of previous album ‘Red’ in favour of a much more stripped back sound. An attempt, he stated, to challenge their own musical capabilities as a band.

He explained: “The other thing that’s different is that on the first record we had strings and brass and xylophones and everything. On the second record that transferred into wanting to make a mad, schizophrenic, electronic pop album. It’s kind of like the first record where, if you strip it back, we are just a band. When you strip it down we have guitar, keyboards, bass and drums so we wanted to make something a bit more like that. Not just to sound boring but to see what we could do just ourselves to make it sound interesting instead of just putting on some extra musicians. I think it’s the most ‘bandy’ sounding of our records.”

For Fyfe Dangerfield, ‘Walk the River’ is not a continuation of anything they have done previously, just another addition to the Guillemots universe…

“I just see them as little planets in the sky. They’re related in the sense that they’re by us but really your future and your past don’t matter when you’re making music.”

As for his latest album’s prospects, Dangerfield remains open minded. Whereas criticism may have affected him in the band’s infancy, experience he has taught him that indifference towards comment, good or bad, is vital for his own creativity and sanity.

He said: “For me I wanted this all my life, especially when we did our first album, it was just this dream and you’re not thinking about anything. And then you have something come out and people write about it, you can’t help but know what people say about you, good and bad. It just starts to seep into you and it’s quite hard to not be influence by it in some way. You become more self-aware and more self-conscious and I really realised in the last few years that you almost have to make a concerted effort just to shed that. Because it doesn’t matter. You’re never going to make something great by considering what other people want from you. More and more it feels like we’re in our place now.

I’ve realised even more how much I love this band and we’re just going to keep doing our thing whether it lines up commercially or not.”

As the interview drew to a close we remained in the dark as to whether or not the power was coming back on. With tickets for the night’s secret show selling out in minutes and the band’s popularity as high as ever, one thing seems certain; it’ll be a long time before the lights go out on the Guillemots.

THE BANTER | 33

Music

gig reviews

photo // Rod cable

THE WANTED Clyde Auditorium, Glasgow GIG REVIEW

Having released their debut album in November last year, The Wanted stormed Glasgow’s Clyde Auditorium for the first of three nights in Scotland as part of their headline tour entitled ‘Behind Bars’.

fantastic covers of Neon Trees - Animal and the ever popular Iris

by The Goo Goo Dolls.

The crowd were warmed up with an acoustic set from interesting new band, Lawson who were then followed by energetic, pop-rock trio, Twenty Twenty.

Just when I thought the screams from the girls could not get any louder, The Wanted emerged through the audience, hugging and kissing their fans, before taking to the stage with a brand new song, Lightening, from their highly anticipated second album.

After excitement over the arrival of Coronation Street’s Michelle Keegan, there to support boyfriend Max from The Wanted, the stage was set and the crowd eagerly awaited the boys entrance.

The boys then performed a Taio Cruz medley and a few other album tracks including, Comic Relief single, Gold Forever which had everyone, mums and dads included, on their feet and jumping.

Instead they were faced with a Sky News bulletin. News reader, Charlotte Hawkins informed the audience that a diamond ring had been stolen and that five young men identified as Nathan, Tom, Jay, Siva and Max were wanted in connection with the robbery. (Cue the screaming girls!)

After a final bulletin from Charlotte, The Wanted were declared heroes, catching the real thief of the diamond ring. They then closed the show with their massive hit and number one single ‘All Time Low.’

Appearing from behind bars on stage, The Wanted opened their show with an electric performance of appropriately named album track ‘Behind Bars’. This then followed by a selection of tracks from their album, including High and Low with which the boys proved themselves to be more than just singers playing their own instruments. They also did two 34 | THE BANTER

The boys were successful in putting on an electrifying show and it was hard to believe at times that this was only their first headline tour. They really know how to get the audience involved, leaving their fans, myself included, wanting more.

natasha reid

Music .

ANGUS AND JULIA STONE O2 ABC, Glasgow gig review

Due to take place before Christmas, Australian siblings Angus and Julia Stone’s latest Glasgow show had to be postponed due to adverse weather.

The last minute cancellation allowed for a venue upgrade to cope with demand, resulting in tonight’s near sell out show; their biggest Scottish crowd to date. Their increased popularity on these shores comes as no surprise given their platinum selling status in their homeland and their penchant for writing irresistibly catchy folk-pop. Adorning the stage with flowers and candles, the duo were quick to make themselves at home, interspersing witty anecdotes between songs.

Ably backed by bass, cello and a Jeff Buckley’s former drummer, the band appeared more than comfortable on the bigger stage.

Changing effortlessly between piano, trumpet and guitars, Julia mostly conducted affairs as her seemingly bashful brother appeared content to take a back seat. Regularly alternating lead vocals in a set which mixed new material with fan favourites such as Yellow Brick Road, And the Boys and Big Jet Plane, the pair justified their undoubted appeal with ease. jack mckenna

photo- daren borzynski

KASSIDY O2 ACADEMY , Glasgow GIG REVIEW

After the release of an album that did not perform as well as expected, a sell out crowd at the ABC seemed like the perfect way to conclude a UK tour. The Glasgow based quartet dished out some favourites, which sounded more effective live than they did on the their record (Hope St.).

The crowd started the night on good form, singing and dancing to hyped-up-hits such as “Take Another Ride” and “Oh My God”. The band themselves were lapping up the atmosphere, continuously thanking the crowd and raising their glasses in honour of their loyal fans.

Kassidy kept the songs coming thick and fast, but for me the gig peaked with the performance of “The Traveller”. Sadly, after this the party atmosphere seemed to diminish a little. The crowd became less enthusiastic and the songs began to sound a tad “samey”.

However, Kassidy continued to entertain and earned a roar of applause when they concluded the show. The encore consisted of a raved up “Stray Cat” which failed to impress as the big crescendo finish.

Overall it was an enjoyable evening at the ABC, and I don’t believe many people would have left the gig feeling disheartened.

Kassidy are a quality live act, and they proved that on the night. Though there were some moments where the performance felt a little flat, the gig as a whole was most definitely a great night out. jack chambers

THE BANTER | 35

Music THE VIEW The Barrowlands, Glasgow gig review

Rowdy fans of The View had no shortage of energy at the Dundee rockers’ second Barrowlands gig this year. Audiences were pumped full of adrenaline, delivering a rampage of chants before the rockers arrived on stage.

Fans appeared to have adopted the bands webpage mantra, repeatedly roaring: “The View is on fire!” in anticipation for the Glasgow event.

Opening with a motivational spoken intro from what sounded like a preacher, audiences looked on, bewildered. However as soon as new single ‘Grace’ was blasted into the auditorium, it was apparent the band were in full blown party-mode.

Track ‘Grace’ has clearly become a favourite with fans already, who had memorised each and every lyric of the upbeat, folk-tainted song. ‘Grace’ as well as ‘Tragic Magic’ reflected on the typical subjects sung by rock musicians – drugs, violence and rollercoaster relationships, with cheeky front-man Falconer providing the tracks with a cynical outlook on life.

‘Bread and Circuses’ track ‘Underneath the Lights’ was another commercial pop-rock piece, with punchy guitar-riffs The colourful track is deceptively addictive; you can’t help but bounce around wildly to it, somewhat similar to the way you would when your favourite football team wins.

The band wisely open the next few tracks with favourites such as ‘Wasted Little DJs’ and ‘5 Rebeccas,’ songs that pleased the crowd relentlessly, ensuring no questioning over whether The View have still got it.

Each member of the band injected a consistent, aggressive energy throughout the night, showcasing a newfound talent

for song-writing that wasn’t as acute within previous albums.

It was not just the fast-tempo alternative rock numbers that gained credibility, Falconer opened up in tracks such as ‘Girl,’ which he sings about his struggles with the ‘smokin’ girl next door, a possible thief, as well as his religious apprehension in ‘Friend.’

Just as predicted, ‘Same Jeans’ received the biggest appreciation and the feel-good poppy track was warmly reciprocated, leaving a feel-good factor throughout the rest of the evening.

The View appear to have bounced back from critics who dissed their second album by showcasing a seamless set of tracks which prove the band won’t fade into the background just yet. Falconer and co are still as fun to watch perform as before, let’s hope they can keep on delivering more charming tracks in future.

Lisa Boyle

JON FRATELLI KING TUTS, Glasgow gig review

Jon Fratelli certainly didn’t hold back at his solo album debut for ‘Psycho Jukebox’ in Glasgow’s King Tuts venue. Sporting a shorter haircut and the recruitment of some familiar faces to play alongside himself at his latest solo gig, Jon banished any critics by playing a set of upbeat, energetic songs to fans anticipating his widely publicised new album.

Jon Fratelli demonstrated his talent as a solo singer/songwriter at the King Tuts event and succeeded with the help of some previous members from The Fratellis and Codeine Velvet club - plus two drummers, one of which included Mince from The Fratelli’s. His performance was met with an ecstatic audience who warmly welcomed the new tracks he had clearly been working so hard on.

The set-list delighted former Fratelli fans and brought reminiscence of the band, with Jon sticking to their upbeat and bluestinted sound, which echoed the melodies of some of his former tracks. Songs such as ‘Daddy won’t pay your bills’ and single ‘Santo Domingo’ were memorable tracks of the night and provided the danceability factor for the crowd, who crammed together, ferociously bouncing away to the fifties and sixties-inspired tracks. The new album is nothing less than you’d expect for a rock’n’roll one and Jon showcased a fine set of tracks which have been produced perfectly by Tony Hoffer to sound still very ‘Fratelli’ yet fresh at the same time.

It is clear Jon Fratelli put every ounce of effort into his Glasgow performance, with some serious guitar work and genuine enthusiasm providing a mass amount of energy which reverberated through the crowd. Some of the well loved Fratelli’s songs also made an appearance, with ‘Everybody knows you cried last night’ and the infamous ‘Chelsea Dagger’ still grasping the greatest cheers of the night. The severely addictive track ‘Rhythm doesn’t make you a dancer’ contains some great guitar solo’s and was also lapped up by crowds, providing a glimpse of the retro sound that Fratelli also incorporates frequently into ‘Psycho Jukebox.’

The drummers provided perfect rhythm to every single track played, and Jon Fratelli showcased stunning guitar-work which his unique voice worked in harmony with.

Jon has clearly come up with even more successful tracks that are bound to please fans and music enthusiasts. By maintaining his normally catchy lyrics and providing a lively atmosphere that any crowd would wish for, Jon provides an exciting taste of what he can offer in future. This album is predicted to be as successful as the popular Fratelli’s music and his future gigs as exciting as this one.

Lisa Boyle

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Music

NOAH AND THE WHALE STEREO, Glasgow gig review

Violin. That is it one word to sum up Noah and the Whale’s grand entrance to 2011. Violin. If that’s not enough for you, how about grand-slam royal wedding-esq party hard, rock out, fist in the air, hair-waiving violin! Where have this Noah and the Whale been?

With a tour to effectively launch their third album, Last Night on Earth, the four boy set are keen to shed their monotonous roots and their musical melancholy with the introduction of Queen’s Bohemian Rhapsody they enter from dimmed lights to a stadium revved crowd cheering wildly to, well, a cramped stage filled with a vintage lamp and some travelling trunks that would have done well to remain a cow and all the while dressed in three-piece suits. Confused, so was the crowd.

To invoke the presence of one of rock and rolls legends at the beginning of a gig encompassing possibly 200people max. is frankly a big front by anyone’s standards and the boys seemed to know it as they shuffled apologetically on stage to Blue Skies. Whilst, as the title suggest the song evokes the happy, hopeful notes of spring and perhaps, if one where feeling generous, you could say it played the band’s hope for a new direction in their musical careers but it was a strange change of pace from their borrowed opener and honestly a bit of a let- down, especially when it was immediately followed by Tonight’s the kind of Night the crowd collectively came back on side with what should have been their opener and the top-collar buttoned up band got into the rhythm. From strength to slow

they played a mix of and new slowly shedding the spectre of girlfriends past and embracing the desire to be bold and brave where Charlie Fink was planning his escape in Give it all Back, which preceded Love of an orchestra that really entered crowd consciousness and began some awe-inspired air punches that thankfully gave frontman Charlie Fink something to talk about in the required ‘crowd-interaction’ phase of the evening. Not a natural speaker his obvious discomfort in speaking carried the thread of the gig which was a dis-jointed collaboration of more media friendly tempo hits and slower acoustic sessions that didn’t quite manage to meet in the middle. What emerged from the soul-bearing tunes of First days of Spring and the new more healing tones of Last night on Earth was an image of boyhood developing out of itself. The band are growing up in their musical ability and as we all remember growing up is a painful, embarrassing time where you sometimes don’t fit your skin but ultimately it’s a tremendous, inspiring time full of life affirming moments captured in perfect couplets and protectively wrapped in Fink’s masterful vocals this is a band on the verge of greatness This Noah and the whale have always been here and of course there ukulele, hippy strewn summers of past lyricism are still there too, which is great if a little disjointed and confusing for a live show so who cares if there staging requires a little tweak, who would have through a violin and a rock out were compatible? heather campbell

THE BANTER | 37

Music ALL TIME LOW THE BARROWLANDS, Glasgow gig review

KYLIE SECC, Glasgow gig review

Opening for the Queen of Pop Kylie Minogue, The Ultra Girls took to the stage. Both opening and closing their short set with their single “Girls will be Girls” these 4 young girls put on a decent set for the Kylie faithful. At a time when a mini girl group fight could be on the cards with The Ultra Girls, Wonderland and Parade all launching debut albums around the same time this showing and platform certainly wouldnt have done The Ultra Girls any harm at all.

After a short wait it was time for music royalty, or should I say Greek Godess to hit the stage.

With a two-hour show that consisted of dancers, huge screens projecting song synchronized images, and several costume changes this was a show not to be missed and a camp one at that.

With a set list featuring songs from every Minogue era, from new album, Aphrodite, to her most successful dance tracks amongst the highlights “Can’t Get You Out Of My Head”, “There Must Be An Angel” and “Love At First Sight/Can’t Beat The Feeling”.

A spectacular water finale that seen Kylie at her Diva best belt a “Night Like This” and the climactic “All The Lovers” as water sprayed all over those lucky fans that were in the Splash Zone (yes we were one of them).

Kylie proved that even at 42 she is still the queen of pop and a force to be reckoned with.

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As usual, the Barrowlands never fails to disappoint. The first time Yellowcard have been back in the country in six years (yes, I know, I felt old too) and supporting pop-punk giants all Time Low, it was bound to be a good gig.

Vocalist, Ryan Key appeared in a Scotland football top and announced that the band were ‘psyched’ to be back in Scotland after being away for 6 years before kicking into their last huge hit, ‘Lights and Sounds’. I imagine that for many of the youngsters in the crowd this was their first experience of seeing a man rock out with a violin but Sean Mackin has been doing this for over a decade so he shows the kids how it’s done.

After indulging all of us of the 1990 generation and older with some older hits like ‘Way Away’ Ryan announces the bands’ new album due out at the end of March, ‘When You’re Through Thinking, Say Yes’ and says he’d like to play some songs off it but not before saying, and I quote “We don’t care how you get the album, just get it so that when we come back in a few months you all know the words and can sing along.”

They finished up with arguably their best known songs, ‘Only One’ and ‘Ocean Avenue’ to which a larger portion of the crowd was screaming the lyrics.

I have to admit I was half expecting All Time Low to come out in their pants but apparently they were on their best behaviour.

They kicked off their set with a song off their last album ‘Keep The Change, You Filthy Animal’ and the crowd was transformed into a sea of people jumping up and down and shouting the lyrics at the top of their voice.

The song ‘Jasey Rae’ off their 2006 EP raised huge screams when the first few bars were played out and after an equally popular rendition of ‘Poppin’ Champagne’ the crowd were treated to the first single off the album that boosted them into the mainstream, ‘Six Feet under The Stars’. Any of the older generation that had stayed around after Yellowcard vacated the stage joined into the group sing-along which filled the Barrowlands with hundreds of voices imploring you to meet them on Thames Street.

We were treated to a song from the new album, ‘Time Bomb’, which most of the younger crowd seemed to know the words to already, no doubt through the magic of YouTube or downloading and then three songs from their 2009 album ‘Nothing Personal’.

There was a little group sing-a-long to Therapy for which front man, Alex, was left on stage to perform and then he continued with an acoustic song, ‘Remembering Sunday’ from album ‘So Wrong, It’s Right’. After much hugging and hand holding was broken up for the cheering as this song finished Alex left the stage and there was a return of the chant “Charlie, Charlie, Charlie f**king Sheen” which had been filmed by the band previously to send to Charlie Sheen.

The lads then reappeared for the obligatory encore of perhaps their two most famous songs, Weightless followed up by the perennial Dear Maria.

The band may already have put out two EPs and three albums with another on way but they show no signs of slowing down.

It makes you wonder what they’ll pull out of the hat next. alyce macpherson

Music WE ARE THE OCEAN Garage, Glasgow gig review

I knew little about We Are The Ocean when I went to see them play at The Garage in Glasgow but from what I could tell from their YouTube video’s I was in for a classic punk pop night.

First impressions of We Are The Ocean are that they lean towards the pop side of punk but after they played a few of their older songs you can see their background is a lot heavier and actually gives front man Dan Brown something to do. In a lot of the newer songs he sings the singing about 50/50 with rhythm guitarist and clean vocalist Liam Cromby.

Muscially, WATO are a really tight band that deliver a great performance, especially with Dan riling up the crowd and jumping into the crowd every so often. Their gigs are very crowd orientated and their fans clearly love that.

We Are The Ocean sound very much as though Oli Sykes fronted All Time Low for a very exclusive project. Dan definitely has as much energy as Oli as well, proving that you don’t need an instrument to look at home on a stage.

Despite the fact that I reckoned WATO are more pop than punk they did manage to create some of the biggest pits to crowd ratio I have seen in a long time.

Disappointingly there were some people who weren’t playing nice in this situation and there were some people who considered hardcore dancing appropriate behaviour but there were a few people who adhered to the “if they’re down pick them up” rule.

Their new single inspired one of he biggest circle pits I may have ever seen (apart from at the Lost Prophets gig circa 2006).

Unfortunately it was a common feeling that WATO were misplaced in this line-up as they were up with punk bands Veara from the US and Lower Than Atlantis from Hertfordshire.

Lower Than Atlantis have been growing steadily in popularity since the release of their debut album Far Q and Veara are one of the few good bands to boast a female member, namely their drummer Brittany Harrell.

Callum Ayers who was at the gig said that from him “Lower Than Atlantis stole the show, as they do everytime.”

For me and a few others that I spoke to at the gig, the encore that WATO preformed was the best song of the night. Confessions from their album Cutting Our Teeth starts with just Liam singing and playing guitar and gradually the rest of the band join in with some of the best screaming that Dan had presented all night.

They always say you should go out with a bang and WATO definitely did. Overall, their gigs come down to a matter of taste, whether you enjoy the softer side of pop punk or not.

There is not denying that We Are The Ocean are a band with great potential that play smart sets with professional precision.

WIN A PAIR OF BON JOVI TICKETS!

A

s part of their 2011 European Tour, Bon Jovi are set to play at the Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh, on the 22nd of June, and we are offering YOU the chance to enjoy this legendary band in person!

After three decades of phenomenal success, Bon Jovi knocked out all competition to be named the Top Concert Tour of 2010 and debuted at Number 1 around the world with their latest album, Bon Jovi’s Greatest Hits.

Beating tough competition by a long shot in Pollstar’s Top 50 Concert Tours of 2010 and claiming Billboard’s Top Touring Act Title for the second time in just three years, an achievement only two other bands in history can claim, Bon Jovi is a rock phenomenon. Yet, despite playing over 50 shows in Europe last year alone, Bon Jovi‘s fans still want more, and the band will be returning to the UK this summer. With classic anthems like “Livin’ On A Prayer”, “Bad Medicine” and new hits such as “What Do You Got?” and “When We Were Beautiful” it’s no surprise that fan demand is higher than ever.

In June 2011 Bon Jovi will be kicking off the UK portion of their tour in Edinburgh, before moving on to Manchester, Bristol and London. And with more than 2,600 concerts performed in over 50 countries around the world, Bon Jovi promise a show that you won’t want to miss! To celebrate the imminent return of the biggest live band in the world we are offering YOU the chance to win one of 3 pairs of Bon Jovi tickets. For your chance to win just answer the following simple question.

Q: Can you name all 4 members of Bon Jovi?

Send your answers by e-mail to info@thebanter.co.uk with the heading Competition: Bon Jovi along with telling us your name, age, address and e-mail address.

Winners will then be chosen at random! Good luck, competition closes June 10th 2011.

alyce macpherson

THE BANTER | 39

Interview

annielennox T

he fairer half of one of Scotland’s most successful music acts of all time, the Eurythmics, Annie Lennox is not just a pretty face. Using her celebrity profile for positivity, Annie has been recognised by the Queen for the volunteering work she does for HIV and AIDS charities, although this is the last thing she’s interested in, preferring instead to get stuck in doing the work which makes the difference. The Banter caught up with Annie to find out more….

In December 2010 the Queen issued the Christmas honours list in which you were included for the volunteering work you undertake for HIV/AIDS charities. How important are recognition awards for raising awareness, and promoting civic duty?

Although receiving awards is a nice bonus, it has nothing to do with my motivation to engage in the work I do.

Thousands of people do incredible things and never receive much recognition. They carry on doing what they’re doing in any case, because that’s where their passion lies. For me, I gratefully accept the awards I’ve been given as signs of encouragement to keep using and strengthening my platform as a campaigner and activist.

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Volunteering has been a big part of your life, from volunteering for Live AID to your recent Christmas Cornucopia album whose profits have had a direct impact on the work of your foundation. How important is volunteering to you?

I prefer to think of what I do as “engagement” with issues that I’m passionate about. In this way it’s like a two way street…I invest my time, energy and commitment to a cause because I want to catalyse some kind of positive change or response. In return I get the benefit of seeing change taking place, and taking part in the process. It’s the opposite of apathy and impotence. It’s getting off the couch and participating. Nothing could be more rewarding in human terms!

Since 2005 the Scottish CPA has built a relationship with both South African and Malawian parliamentarians. What do you see as your role as a volunteer (special envoy) for the Scottish Branch in promoting a better understanding of HIV / AIDS in our three nations and what has your volunteering work allowed you to do in practical terms?

The issue of HIV /AIDS carries a great degree of stigma, which results in the subject very often being

Interview marginalised, when in fact, it should be right at the heart of the health agenda. Western countries respond to outbreaks of swine flu and bird flu as epidemics requiring emergency actions. When these outbreaks occur, the front pages of daily newspapers are filled with stories.

HIV/AIDS has no such front line coverage, despite the fact that it continues to impact upon millions of people’s lives. I believe that my interest and passion as a campaigner can contribute to help bridge the gap between the organisations I represent, who are doing amazing work…the media, who need to “not forget or ignore”….members of the public, who possibly don’t know anything about the situation, and those in power, who can do a great deal to support those who are most affected. I work in a variety of ways. I work with various organisations at different levels..either giving presentations or interviews for TV, radio or print ( Comic Relief, UNAIDS, Oxfam, The Scottish Parliament, The Mayor’s Office in London, Treatment Action Campaign, M2M)…By making films to highlight and illustrate the human stories behind the pandemic.. or by raising money to directly financially support projects…Check out my website www.annielennoxsing.com to find out more

count, and have the means to contribute to change. I can’t tell anyone what to do..that’s up to them. But I do think that education has a tough gig over the powers of consumerism, media and corruption, from the top to the bottom. As a woman and mother, I feel so privileged to have received the benefits that arose from the sacrifices of women before me, and I want to be part of a collective voice that says that women shouldn’t have to suffer with the unspeakable misery of lives dominated by poverty and oppression.

Across the U.K. much is being made of the role of volunteers in our society, especially in the Big Society debate. Aside from the politics of it all; how do you think we as a society can ensure that social action is life long journey especially for young people?

I don’t think there are any guarantees. In my opinion the world is a crazy place, with pockets of intelligence, humanity, compassion and determination for the good. What else can I say? I have no prescription for the ultimate solution!

Along with Kate Nash, Paloma Faith, VV Brown and others at EQUALS Live you will celebrate women’s achievements, and raise awareness of the inequalities that women still face around the world. Where do you find the time?

Needless to say..Time is a precious commodity! I have a small group of fantastic people around me who work tirelessly to put my world into a viable shape that I can handle. Apart from that, it would be impossible to function!

The media spotlight is often thrown on the negative aspects of life. How important is it for you in your professional life to use the spotlight to promote work in the HIV / AIDS field especially when it impacts women and children?

Well of course we live in a media driven age that is fuelled by the alliance between “celebrity” voyeurism and exhibitionism. We’re continuously hypnotised by the ever consuming consumerist culture, so that “real life” becomes synonymous with “reality” TV. We have little idea about what exists outside the comfort zone of our own bubble….yet we’re the most over informed humans that have ever existed. I could go on…

Do you think it is important for people in public life not just musicians and artists like yourself to support the work of civic society and charitable work?

I think it’s important that we wake up to the vast inequalities and injustices that exist in the world, and realise that we all

Let me just put it like this…

Forty to 60 per cent of women surveyed in Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Peru, Samoa, Thailand and Tanzania said that they had been physically and/ or sexually abused by their intimate partner.

Women perform more than 66% of the world’s work, produce 50% of the food, earn 10% of the income, and own 1% of the property.

One woman dies every 90 seconds in pregnancy or childbirth.

Globally…ten million more girls than boys are out of school.

Women hold only 19% of the world’s parliamentary seats 75% of civilians killed in war are women and children Domestic violence causes more death and disability amongst women aged between sixteen and 44 than cancer or traffic accidents.

96% of the UK’s top 100 companies directors are men.

In the 50 largest publicly traded EU corporations, women make up a paltry average of 11% of top executives, and 4% of CEO’S and heads of boards.

The amount spent in the erectile dysfunction market is four times greater than the amount spent on maternal and newborn health in poor countries.

THE BANTER | 41

Feature

T

here is no one direct route to a successful career in the music industry. Whether you want to be a singer, songwriter, label owner, sound engineer, DJ or an events organiser, there are a variety of journeys and avenues that can lead to a job in music.

Young Scot, the national youth information charity for Scotland, want to help young people influence, participate and find employment in the music sector. So, with the support of Creative Scotland, they put together Pathways to Music, a project designed to help you do just that.

As part of this, Young Scot took over Edinburgh’s Electric Circus in March to host a special ‘Pathways To Music’ seminar. Over 80 young people came along to quiz industry professionals, including Idlewild’s Rod Jones, BBC Radio 1 presenter Ally McCrae, Island Record scout Yvonne McLellan and Scott Hutchison from Frightened Rabbit, who shared with the audience insights and advice taken from their own experiences.

to see and hear from people who have succeeded in some way – to see how they’ve done it,” says Ally. “It gives you a little bit of inspiration, a little bit of spark, that it can happen. Just a year ago, I was in the audience at events like this. And if I can do it, anyone can.”

At only 23 years old Ally showcases the finest new music from north of the border on his ‘BBC Introducing’ show, filling the post after Scottish music guru Vic Galloway left. Ally graduated in 2009 and after struggling to find employment, he and his friends decided to start their own video blog project, Detour Scotland, which harnessed their individual talents, created their own jobs and put Ally on the map.

A man who is no stranger to the demanding industry, and Rod Jones, maintained that like anything in life, experience is key.

“You can’t really teach someone how to write a great song or to form a great band, but you can certainly give them advice on how to take their music forward or make their music into something that they can do for a living.” A guitarist for indie rock band Idlewild, Rod insisted that aspiring musicians play as much as they can and remember to enjoy themselves. “Trying too hard to break into the music industry can leave you sour and eventually quite jaded and cynical,” he says.

When asked about Pathways to Music, Ally declared the project as a vital starting point for aspiring young people “It’s amazing

Someone who has clearly abided by Rod’s advice is Yvonne McLellan. Driven by her passion for new music, Yvonne has

42 | THE BANTER

Feature worked in the music industry for 13 years under various guises, from label manager to record shop owner. Currently the Regional A&R Scout with Island Records, Yvonne scours the country for all the best talent and also lectures part-time at Ayr College in Music Business. She thinks events like the Pathways to Music seminar are great because it gives young people a real perspective on how to break the industry.

“It’s a good opportunity for people to ask questions that they maybe otherwise wouldn’t get the chance to do,” she says. “My one piece of advice would be that things don’t just happen; you’ve got to make them happen. You’ve got to have a strong DIY ethic.”

GEt INVOLVED WITH VOLUNTEERS WEEK Volunteers’ Week is an annual event which celebrates the fantastic contribution that millions of volunteers make across the UK. The Week plays a huge part in raising the profile of the millions of volunteers who regularly contribute to society, while inspiring others to get involved too.

The Banter Magazine is a not for profit magazine written entirely by young volunteers. This has not only created a great platform to showcase their work but has also given them the opportunity to achieve certification in the MV Awards for the number of hours and dedication they have put in to the magazine.

This is a theme strongly echoed by Frightened Rabbit lead vocalist, Scott Hutchison. Scott used the name Frightened Rabbit as a stage moniker for his solo shows, and admits to messing around with his four-track for about six months before seriously considering performances and booking shows. “If you are inclined to give up after the first hurdle, you shouldn’t be doing it in the first place,” he told the audience. “Same if you want to give up after your 100th hurdle. It’s non-stop obstacles, but I think the pay-off is completely worth it.”

If you want to find out more about how you can get involved in the music industry, read more case studies and access “how to” guides, check out www.youngscotextra.org/ptm

Their hard work has also not went unnoticed with the magazine recently being highly commended in both the Best Small Publishing Company and Best Consumer Design categories at the last Scottish PPA Magazine Awards. More recently we have also been shortlisted for Best Print Publication in the upcoming Scottish New Music Awards.

If you would like to find out more about how you can get involved with The Banter Magazine drop us an email on info@thebanter.co.uk or if you are interested in getting involved in other volunteering opportunities within your community visit www.volunteerscotland.org.uk to find out more.

THE BANTER | 43

Interview

N

ew girl band Wonderland, formed by X Factor’s Louis Walsh and Westlife’s Kian Egan, have been touring with Boyzone and Westlife and are releasing their debut album this month. The Banter got a chance at a recent Glasgow show to find out a little more about the latest girl group on the scene.

How did the band come about?

Jodi - We formed in 2008 through open auditions that Louis Walsh and Kian Egan put together and we have been recording our album for the last year and half and we are just getting ready to release it on the 6th June so we are very, very excited.

Why the name Wonderland?

Kasey - Our manager Kian was walking down the road with two people from the record company and there was a bus with an advert of the Tim Burton film Alice in Wonderland and he asked what we thought of Wonderland. We were not very sure but the next morning the 5 of us were like “Have you still got Wonderland in your head?” and we were like “Yeah…” so we

loved it from then on.

Jodi – We wanted something organic that kind of just happened itself and this did.

Was it difficult forming a band not knowing each other?

Leigh - Well we auditioned together and the auditions went on over a few months. During the auditions we got to know each other really well and we naturally just became friends during that period. When we were picked I couldn’t believe it was these four that had been picked. We kind of had a few months just to get to know one another, we used to just go and hang out in Jodies house in Sligo and just became friends and it just went on from there.

Have you had to move since forming the group?

Kasey - We all moved. We have lived in London now for the past year, we live in apartments and yeah we are loving it. Its five girls having a laugh and living the dream.

Do you feel added pressure with a lot of hype being built

WONDERLAND photo // daren borzynski

44 | THE BANTER

Interview around Louis and Kians involvement with the group?

Jodi – I think you do feel a little bit of pressure because Louis Walsh is obviously such a big name and Kian has been extremely successful with 12 years in Westlife but at the end of the day all that they have been able to do for us is create this opportunity but once we get out on stage it is up to us to do our thing and show people we are worthy of being here. I think all we try to focus on is just how good we are on stage and anything after that we don’t really worry too much about.

Kasey – Obviously we have a great management team but after that people don’t get fooled they are going to decide whether they like or music or not You had a reality show on ITV2 how was that for you?

Corrina - Because we weren’t a well known band, and no one really knew who we were, to get the chance to do that with ITV2 was incredible. The fact that they offered it us was just amazing. It took us a while to get used to it because none of us were really used to being in front of the cameras and at the very beginning the cameras would turn on and we just all go really quiet and we’d look so bored as our personalities would just go out the door.

Jodi - We looked so scared Corrina - We said to them “Just film us and don’t even let us know when you are filming” and then it all kind of happened more naturally that way. It was a great experience and it will be great to look back on the memories of it.

them are Westlife fans and have been really supportive. We do have “Wondies”, that is what they decided to call themselves, but I don’t think it makes your career. I think its really important to connect to certain fans Leigh – It is great to fill them in on Twitter and Facebook, some ask “will you come to the gate and meet us” and we write back “we will be there in 5” and you get to go out and have a little meet and greet with them, its fun.

Jodi – Its nice to actually get their direct opinion as well as they help us become a better band. When we have done a gig and they respond about our gig we can reply to them, they are very honest with us Leigh – We weren’t doing the song “In your arms” on the Boyzone tour and they were all posting and tweeting “Please bring it back” so we ended up bringing it back in to the playlist as it was obviously having a great response.

Perez Hilton is a fan isn’t he?

Jodi – That was insane. We couldn’t believe it, Corrinas friend Corrina – We were on our way home, we had been out for the day and we all on our way back in the taxi and my friend text me “Oh my god I can’t believe…Perez Hilton just wrote about you” we were all flusterd in the car trying to get out our iphone and we got his site up on the phone and we actually couldn’t believe our eyes.

Leigh – It was so out of the blue Sharron - He wrote really nice things which was nice

You are entering the industry and a time when females are dominating the charts particularly with the likes of Adele and Rihanna.

Kasey – Obviously yeah we have a lot of competition but we are just going to work as hard as we can and sing our songs and hope people like it.

Jodi – There has always been strong females dominating the charts even back to when we were growing up with Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey and Kylie. I think there has always been those, if anything they inspire us, on tour we do an Adele cover because we are all obsessed with her as a band, as much as the rest of the world is at the moment.

Leigh – On the Boyzone tour we did a Rihanna cover as well.

Kasey– They are two biggest female stars out just now aren’t they. We even listen to their music before we perform as we always like to get pumped up before we hit the stage.

Were you happy with the response so far to “Not a Love Song” Kasey - That was our EP and it went straight in at number 7 in the albums chart and that was just unbelievable. It was just amazing how well it done, we were made up.

Jodi – I don’t think we expected the song to get such a big reaction, it had been a-listed to a lot of radio stations, major radio stations. It just got legs all of a sudden and its been building momentum and we were just delighted that it went stra ight in at number 7 in the itunes chart. We always thought we would be a slow burner anyway and just work our way up the ladder and work hard.

Leigh – Its so amazing to see when on stage people already singing back Not a Love Song, to see people sing back a song that we recorded so long ago and to have had a part in writing it is just incredible.

You are all on Twitter, do you feel its important to use these platforms to help build a fanbase?

Corrina - Yeah I think its importanat. On Twitter we have followers, we don’t necessarily call them fans just yet. Some of

Wonderlands self titled debut album is released June 6th and Scottish fans can see the girls live at In:Demand Live on Saturday 18th June. For further information visit www.indemandlive.co.uk THE BANTER | 45

Movies

movies to

look out for

X-MEN: First Class U FROM 3rd June

X-MEN FIRST CLASS charts the epic beginning of the X-Men saga, and reveals a secret history of famous global events.

Before mutants had revealed themselves to the world, and before Charles Xavier and Erik Lensherr took the names Professor X and Magneto, they were two young men discovering their powers for the first time.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid 2: Rodrick Rules U

FROM 27TH mAY

In this sequel to 2010‘s surprise hit, Greg Heffley, the kid who made ‘wimpy‘ cool is back in an all–new family comedy based on the best–selling follow–up novel

by Jeff Kinney.

Armageddon. In the process, a grave rift between them opened, which began the eternal war between Magneto’s Brotherhood and Professor X’s X-Men.

Not archenemies, they were instead at first the closest of friends, working together with other Mutants (some familiar, some new), to stop

BAD TEACHER

15 FROM 24th June

(Kinney‘s ‘Wimpy Kid‘ series has thus far sold 42 million books).

Some teachers just don’t give an F. For example, there’s Elizabeth (Cameron Diaz). She’s foul-mouthed, ruthless, and inappropriate. She drinks, she gets high, and she can’t wait to marry her meal ticket and get out of her bogus day job.

As he begins seventh grade, Greg and his older brother – and chief tormentor– Rodrick must deal with their parents‘ misguided attempts to have them bond.

When she’s dumped by her fiancé, she sets her plan in motion to win over a rich, handsome substitute (Justin Timberlake) – competing for his affections with an overly energetic colleague, Amy (Lucy Punch).

When Elizabeth also finds herself fighting off the advances of a sarcastic, irreverent gym teacher (Jason Segel), the consequences of her wild and outrageous schemes give her students, her coworkers, and even herself an education like no other.

THE BANTER | 47

Movies

Comics no longer just on the page

T

here was once generations of people who grew up reading comic books. Many of them, who are now no longer teenagers, can still be found the aisles of Forbidden Planet eagerly awaiting the release of the latest edition of their favourite comic. And even more can be found at comic conventions across the world hunting down those rare first editions.

But in the past few years a new generation of comic book lovers has been born; only these ones prefer the movie version.

While there are still a large proportion of young people reading comics every week, there’s an even larger proportion that are flocking to the cinema.

Even if you are not a fan, it’s hard to escape the comic book blockbusters which have been released in the past few years.

And there’s even more to coming out in 2011 starting with Thor which was released over Easter. Despite many people not knowing much about Thor before now, the comic book the film is based on dates back to the 1960’s and centres around Thor, the god of Thunder (also from the myths of the same name).

And it’s not the only one being released this year. X-Men First Class is out in June, it’s the story of Charles Xavier who sets up a school for humans with superhuman abilities which then forms the X-Men team. Then Green Lantern will be released later in the same month, with Ryan Reynolds taking the lead role.

Based on the DC comics that were first published in the 1940’s, 48 | THE BANTER

Reynolds will play a pilot who is granted a green ring with powers to protect the universe. But it’s not the first superhero role he has taken on. The actor appeared as marvel character Deadpool in the 2009 film X-Men Origins: Wolverine, a role he will take on again when the character gets his own movie due for release in 3 years times.

Captain America: The First Avenger is being billed as one of the big summer blockbusters. It’s another part to the Avenger franchise which will be released next year featuring the likes of Iron Man, The Incredible Hulk and Thor. And anyone who knows their comics can watch the previous films released for each character and see the links to the other Avengers. For example in the last Iron Man movie, both Thor’s hammer and Captain America’s shield appeared in shot and if you wait until after the films credits (you may have to actually wait 20 minutes after everyone else leaves the screen) there’s often a small teaser clip of the superheroes in action in the Avengers movie.

It seems these days lead role in a superhero movie is one of the most sought after roles in Hollywood, with some of leading men and women fighting to be offered the roles. While some roles like Thor went to a fairly new actor (Chris Hemsworth was best known for his role in Aussie soap Home and Away before taking on the Thor job), the likes of Robert Downey Junior, Scarlett Johansson, Samuel L Jackson and Tobey McGuire have also stepped up over the past few years. So why is the role of a hero so appealing to some of Hollywood’s elite?

Movies

Well even though hard core fans of a comic book are likely to pick apart every aspect of a film when their favourite character is turned into a big screen hero. These type of films are fast becoming some of the most popular ones being released, turning anyone who appears in them into a global name in the process and not to mention earning them a nice pay packet.

Even actors who usually pick small quirky films are jumping on board – Scarlett Johansson started her career doing films like Ghost World and Lost In Translation, both films which were known for being creative and independent and nothing like the box office hit Iron Man in which she plays Black Widow.

So what’s next for the superhero movie generation? Well it now seems Hollywood isn’t satisfied with having just one film per character. The Amazing Spiderman will be released next year starring Andrew Garfield as Peter Parker and Emma Stone as his love interest Gwen Stacy. And before you ask, yes a different version of Spiderman was only out a few years ago, with the first film released in 2002, and the most recent in 2007.And after several Superman movies, the next remake has been announced with British actor Henry Cavill being chosen for the lead role.

But surely not all the films can be remade over and over again; instead the future of the comic book movies looks set on the less popular ones, the characters which can not only make a new and original movie but also boost the sales of their paper friends on the shelves of Forbidden Planet. sarah moyes

THE BANTER | 49

Theatre & Arts

G

lee is a four letter word in theatre. The sight of those perfect skinned, perfect toned students rocking to showtunes has left many treading the boards sooner saying Macbeth than McKinley.

Yes, several characters are as flat as Rachel Berry’s over-straightened hair. Yes, its multimillion selling albums owe more than a few notes to the auto-tuner. Gleek or not, it is difficult to deny the power of Glee in revitalising the face of mainstream musical theatre.

Now here is a statement which will make the most ardent thespians clutch at their heart like Lear on the moors: Glee is distinctly Shakespearean in its storytelling. Did you hear the tragedians wail? The endless break-ups and make-ups of its many star cross’d lovers have proved throughout the series that the path of true love never did run smoothly.

Sue Sylvester meddles with the characters’ lives like an altogether less subtle Iago, pouring a little poison into their ears and watching the senseless melodrama unfold from the sidelines.

Each week, Mr. Schuester teaches the same lesson as Hamlet’s Polonious: “to thine own self be true”, Gleeks, “and it must follow as the night the day”. “Don’t hide yourself in regret”, so sayeth the Gaga, “just love yourself and you’re set”.

50 | THE BANTER

In a television schedule full of vapid teenagers with egos as big as The Hills, it is reassuring to see characters battle and conquer their insecurities. When the glee club “mash” together songs such as TLC’s ‘Unpretty’ and ‘I Feel Pretty’ from Stephen Sondheim’s West Side Story, we as viewers can share in their triumphs over anxiety and feel that heightened emotionalism which musical theatre so lends itself to.

And we are in very capable jazz hands. Amongst the cast of Glee are some of theatre’s recent successes, having previously earned themselves Tony nominations and places in Broadway’s biggest hits. Curly-haired Matthew Morrison originated the role of Link Larkin in the shimmy-shaking Hairspray and Lea Michele starred in the original cast of the angst-ridden Spring Awakening. The pair even went on to perform at the Tony Awards last year, belting out camp-classic ‘Don’t Rain on My Parade’ in the same room as Barbara Streisand, the woman who made it a worldwide hit. The Queen approves.

With the scythe swinging over the arts, it’s reassuring to see some positive representations of life upon the wicked stage.

Glee may be fast becoming an easy way to make money but its power to show that musical theatre is a lucrative industry is priceless. scott purvis

laura gallacher

Sports Development Volunteer

STAR APPEAL

Rolling out the red carpet for volunteers throughout Scotland If you would like be a star in your community visit www.volunteerscotland.org .uk contact us on 0141 941 0886 or text Volunteer to 80800

Interview

DANNY BHOY S

ince his first solo show in front of an audience of just 60 back in 2001 at the Edinburgh Fringe, comedian Danny Bhoy has become one of Scotland’s most successful comedy exports, with a huge following in Australia and New Zealand. The Banter caught up with the comedian to talk about Edinburgh, the Queen and his kitchen‌

52 | THE BANTER

Interview

“I

Interview // Louise Anne Geddes

try to avoid social events were people will be expecting me to be funny, because it’s always disappointing. I am never less funny than when someone comes up to me at a party and says ‘you’re the comedian? Go on, tell us a joke?’

The Scottish born comedian, described by the Montreal Gazette as ‘One of the most sparkling wits in the world’ is just about to embark on a UK Summer tour (2011) ‘Messenger (Don’t Shoot The) following the huge success of his 2010 Autumn tour, and he tells us that despite his international success he’s just as fond of the audiences at home.

“I still find the audiences in Edinburgh to be one of the best. They tend to start a little apprehensive at the start which I like. Kind of like 2 warriors pacing around each other before a battle, and sometimes it is a battle. Australian and Kiwi audiences are also fantastic, because they are happy to sit back and enjoy the journey, rather than have me race towards punchline after punchline. I think my favourite venue is The Enmore Theatre in Sydney, because it’s big, but feels small.

Comedy was a profession Danny Bhoy fell into almost accidentally and he enjoyed it as a child (especially Billy Connolly), he never thought it possible to pursue it as a career: “I never even thought stand up was something people did for a profession, until I got into it. I didn’t think about it as a possible career, until I realised that every other job I did resulted in me being fired for spending the whole time trying to make other people laugh. I did my first open spot in a cellar bar in Edinburgh in 2008, and it just kinda’ went from there.”

Despite his substantial worldwide following, Danny Bhoy is quite candid about the fact that his popularity in Britain is not of an equal level, but with the success of the Autumn tour and the upcoming Summer tour, it looks like that is all about to change.

But where does one find inspiration to amuse?

“Pretty much anything and everything. I don’t really set out to write about any specific subject, I just find something funny and talk about it on stage. I take each gig as it comes. I have quite a strange career, where I can be playing to 2000 people one week, and 150 people the next. It keeps me fresh and sharp as a performer, which is what it’s all about”.

Nominated for a Gemini Award for Best Individual Comedy Performance, and appearing on the prestigious All Star Gala, an honour usually reserved for veteran comics, it’s clear that Danny Bhoy is a talent to watch out for. He’s a storyteller, and for him this is the most important thing about comedy: “I like to tell stories on stage. I think the best atmosphere for comedy is making it feel like you are talking to a few mates down the pub. I try to create as intimate an atmosphere as possible” In his own inimitable fashion he shares his funniest career experience to date: “I suppose meeting the Queen was a little weird, because it didn’t feel like it was a natural part of the career path I was on. I remember the night before my Royal performance, I did a gig in a smokey upstairs pub in Soho, then 24hrs later I was in a suit at the Festival Theatre in Edinburgh with Her Majesty looking down at me” With his success in Australia and New Zealand, he spends a lot of time away from home, and claims that of everything he misses…his kitchen! ‘My kitchen. I love my kitchen, and I never get to cook on the road”. Missing kitchen utensils aside, I’m sure he wouldn’t have it any other way, given the reception he has received worldwide! So what’s next for Danny Bhoy?

“I am finishing up the Australia tour at the moment, and then I go on to New Zealand before heading back for the UK tour in June. It’s a pretty full on schedule, but I don’t know what else I would do, if I didn’t have stand up” Perhaps have a career as a language specialist? ‘I can identify any accent in the world from just one spoken word.’

Danny Bhoy performs at the Glasgow Kings on Sunday 26th June.

THE BANTER | 53

Feature

PETER KAY - The Tour That Doesn’t Tour Tour, Now On Tour! Glasgow COMEDY REVIEW It’s been seven years since his last tour and eighteen months since we bought our tickets. Needless to say, we’ll be a tough audience to please but that’s not a problem for the lovable and super talented lad from Bolton.

To start off, and to quash any naysayers, all of Peter’s material was completely new on this tour, although there were some references to old jokes for fans, and it was 100% comedy gold.

After much fidgeting and repositioning in the notoriously uncomfortable SECC seats the lights went down and everyone began cheering while smoke poured out and Peter Kay began rising out of the stage. Only for his platform to stall several times and for him to eventually step out; a staged joke, but good none the less.

Peter broke the audience in with a few typically terrible ‘so bad they’re good’ jokes and then proceeded to go about in his energetic style delivering stories that are not only wittily delivered but in such a way that you feel as though your friend might be telling you them at a party.

Peter’s ability to connect to his audience and let them into his personal life while still keeping things light and full of laughter is a talent that a lot of new comedians lack these days.

From stories about family holidays with hazardous sun loungers that will make you wince, to more classic anecdotes from his lovable and ‘sea lion’ Nan there is no base that Peter doesn’t

touch on. Even Peter’s weight doesn’t avoid the comedy as he describes how day three of a ‘starts on Monday’ diet makes him feel like a junkie, although he still won’t reach for the Rich Tea biscuits.

A lot of reviews that have come out for the tour have been saying that in seven years, he’s not come up with anything fantastically new but I would tend to disagree. Yes, the format’s the same and yes Peter is still commenting on things that are normal and average but that’s why Peter Kay is the successful comedian he is.

Peter points out the obvious and then later, while you’re carrying out your mundane everyday tasks you can remember his jokes and maybe it’ll raise a smile. Just because his comedy isn’t rude, offensive and downright shocking doesn’t make him a bad comedian, in fact, it makes him a better comedian for not pandering to the public’s need for the excuse to laugh at something that’s socially unacceptable to joke about.

For firm fans of Peter Kay this is new and fresh material with little hints of old jokes that make you feel like you’re part of the family and for newcomers to Kay’s style this is a tour that introduces you perfectly to how the way things are done in Peter’s camp. alyce macpherson

54 | THE BANTER

HEALTH & WELLBEING

CITIZENSHIP

Change Lifestyle

PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT

Placement While Studying New Services

Helping Others Getting Recognised Retirement

Give Something Back

Into Employment Career Change

SOCIAL CHANGE

Use Spare Time

Stronger Communities

Peer Support

EMPLOYMENT

Broaden Horizons

VOLUNTEER

New Skills

Bringing Communities Together

Meeting New People Use Your Skills

Change Your Community

ENVIRONMENTAL ACTION

Volunteer - Choose your destination.

Whatever you want to do, wherever you want to go....volunteering can get you there. To book your journey visit call 0141 941 0886, text the word volunteer free on 80800 or visit www.volunteerscotland.org.uk

Feature

young scot awards 2011 Here at The Banter HQ, we were privileged enough to be invited to this year’s Young Scot Awards, so we looked out the tux and dusted off the bow tie and attended a wonderful evening filled with TV and music stars and an array of aspiring young Scots, who were stars in their own right.

The overall title of Young Scot 2011 went to crofting campaigner Megan MacDonald, for her passion and forwardthinking in preserving a Scottish way of life.

The 14-year-old from South Uist, is helping to create a skills academy to show her island community how to adapt to new ways of making a living, also won the Environment Award for her vital work.

She said: “This has come as such a big shock to me. I was just doing what I enjoy.”

The brightest stars by far at our glittering Young Scot Awards were our inspiring winners.

There were more stories of hard work, courage and determination, proving that the Scottish youth are an asset to the country and one that it can be proud of.

Rachel Henderson, 16, from Dumbarton, was awarded the Unsung Hero award, due to her work as a carer for her mum, who has severe arthritis, the schoolgirl was herself diagnosed with the painful condition six months ago.

Rachel was presented the award by comedy star Greg McHugh - aka Gary: Tank Commander.

She volunteers for the confidence-building Shine project for teens and is an active church member.

Rachel said: “I’m really pleased about winning the award. It means an awful lot to be honoured in this way, especially as I was chosen by the readers. Being part of this has been so

56 | THE BANTER

amazing in every way.”

15-year-old Glasgow schoolboy Ryan McLaughlin started the Shine on Scotland campaign to highlight the links between multiple sclerosis and vitamin D deficiency.

Ryan, whose mother has MS, has petitioned the Scottish parliament and is the driving force behind a summit in Glasgow and fundraising for research and this work, saw him receive The Health Award.

Ryan said: “I’m dedicating this award to my mum. Some of the stories I heard were humbling and those nominated in my category were really great.”

The Dalmarnock Futures Forum scooped the Truth About Youth award.

These 14 to 23-year-olds act as mentors to youngsters in the east end of Glasgow, addressing issues such as alcohol and drugs. Thanks to their hard work, anti-social behaviour has dropped in their neighbourhood.

Group member Ian Wilson said: “Our area has been plagued with a lot of poor perceptions about how young people behave. We are trying to challenge and change them.”

Craig Rutherford, who set up a plant-operating business in the middle of the recession, helping support the construction and farming sector in the area, collected the Enterprise Award.

Craig, 20, from Ross of Mull said: “My business has succeeded because of sheer determination.”

Shetland islander Nicole Mouat, 18, accepted the Community Award.

She works tirelessly to represent the views of young people in her area, often travelling hundreds of miles to represent the youth of Shetland. Nicole said: “We get a lot done and I am very

Interview honoured to win an award for that work.”

The Sport Award was lifted by swimmer Adam Melville, 16, from Cumbernauld.

Adam had no idea of his talent until a PE teacher persuaded him to take part in the Scotland West swimming trials back in 2008.

Since then, he has won 15 gold medals, and 11 silver and bronze, taking part in the Special Olympics in July 2009.

Adam, who has learning difficulties, also smashed the Scottish 50m breaststroke record.

He said: “I have won lots of medals but this award is the biggest honour ever.”

Young actor Chris Robertson, 16, from Moredun, Edinburgh, scooped the Entertainment Award.

The young carer also looks after his younger siblings, was being bullied at school and was separated from his family when he enrolled in the Pilton Video Project and gained a major role in the film Mum’s Birthday.

Chris said: “I was happy enough just to be here for the night out but I am more than honoured to leave with an award.”

The Oasis Events Teams - a group of 13 to 19-year-olds from Dumfries - took the Arts Award.

They put on Youth Beatz, Scotland’s largest free youth event in Dumfries, featuring N-Dubz and local musicians.

Oasis member Thomas Nicoll said: “Our award will take pride of place in the Oasis Youth Centre.”

Liam McCluskey, 14, and his brother Shaun, 15, from Drongan, Ayrshire, won the Volunteering Award.

The super siblings are Scout leaders, members of a youth forum and tutor a guitar group. Both boys run workshops on DJ-ing, film and editing, and Shaun works in the children’s ward of Crosshouse Hospital.

Shaun said: “The night itself has been such a great reward for us. We have met some great friends.”

The Diversity and Citizenship Award was given to Voice Against Violence, a group of 16 to 22- year-olds who raise awareness of domestic abuse.

Members speak from personal experience when they lobby politicians as well as trying to make things better for others through their website.

Spokesman Chloe said: “Domestic abuse is very high up on the agenda and nobody else focuses particularly on children and young people. So we are grateful to be recognised for our work.”

Jamie O’Rourke, 21, from Grangemouth, took home the Heritage Award.

Jamie has spent two years developing history tour Ghostly Guides in Falkirk town centre, working with 10 to 16-year-olds.

Jamie said: “It’s been nice being the centre of attention even though I feel like I don’t deserve it.”

This year’s Sunday Mail Readers’ Award went to Michaela Girvan, 15, from Rhu, near Helensburgh.

Despite being bullied for three years at school, she developed a board game to help schools beat bullying, set up a website to offer advice and has spoken at anti-bullying conferences.

Michaela said: “Just being invited along to the awards made me so happy so winning is an extra bonus.”

And the In: Demand Unsigned Act award - voted for by radio listeners across Scotland, went to Glasgow band Little Eye. MAXWELL LYNAS

THE BANTER | 57

Feature

Living below the line

I

’m not sure what I was thinking when I signed up for Live Below The Line 2011. I was blinded by the bright, engaging internet campaign that made living on only £1 a day sound like a big game of “playing house”. Thousands of people from across the world were posting photos of themselves shopping and making dinner. They swapped recipe ideas. They debated what they would miss most: chocolate or crisps? It was all so exciting – all us rich Westerners getting together and pretending to be poverty stricken for five days!

So I signed up and I got excited. With my aunt and cousin, we started planning how to spend our £15 budget. We headed to Lidl where we rushed round with a calculator, shouting out the price of everything. I have never had such a fun shopping experience. We high-fived each other when we found pasta for 30p or a massive tin of peaches for only 70p. When the cashier said we owed £7.21, we started whooping and dancing at the check-out. It felt like we had won a T.V game show.

At home, we planned our meals. Spanish omelette, tuna pasta, even homemade pizza (without cheese, of course). I have never talked so long about food. It was all we could think about. We couldn’t wait to take up the challenge.

It wasn’t until the second day, as I shovelled lumpy porridge into my ungrateful stomach that I realised I was missing the point. This Live Below The Line campaign was not designed to glamorise poverty, it was created to allow our excessive nations to actually experience every day hunger. Live Below The Line took off in Australia in 2009 with the Global Poverty Project 58 | THE BANTER

looking for a way to help people better understand what poverty actually is. It was designed to bridge the gap between what people perceive as poverty and what it means in reality.

Poverty is not the hopeless picture that is painted by the media, but actually billions of ordinary people just struggling to put food on the table. They asked people to spend five days below the line and experience it firsthand. The result is that in 2011, over 10,000 people have agreed to take part, with sponsorship expected to raise £1 million for different organisations around the world.

I have to admit that there is something enjoyable about pretending for a week, about being part of something different and proving that it is possible to live below the poverty line.

But there is always that reassuring thought that it will be over soon. I know that by the end of the week, I’ll be back to gorging myself on the wonderful variety available to me at my local supermarket, without a second thought to price or where it has come from. But can you imagine living on £1 a day, every day? Can you imagine having to feed your family, educate your children, pay doctor’s bills, take the bus, all on £1 a day? It seems impossible but around the world, 1.4 billion people are forced to live this way. Not for five days, but for life. When I stop and think that 1.4 billion of my brothers and sisters spend every minute of every day thinking about where their next meal is coming from, living on £1 a day doesn’t seem so fun anymore.

To find out more about Live Below The Line, or to donate, visit: www.livebelowtheline.org.uk/

kate chambers

jennifer davidson

Sports Development Volunteer

STAR APPEAL

Rolling out the red carpet for volunteers throughout Scotland If you would like be a star in your community visit louise anne geddes www.volunteerscotland.org .uk contact us on 0141 941 0886 or text Volunteer to 80800

Maxwell Lynas

Volunteer Journalist

STAR APPEAL

Rolling out the red carpet for volunteers throughout Scotland If you would like be a star in your community visit www.volunteerscotland.org .uk contact us on 0141 941 0886 or text Volunteer to 80800