The Edge – Issue 6 (May 2018) by The Edge

ISSUE SIX MAY 2018 FREE

EDITORIAL

Issue Six

Editor’s Note

It’s fitting that, as the Avengers face their ‘Last Stand’, so do we. This is the final issue of the academic year, and the end for many of us golden oldies – although, like the MCU, The Edge will soon be reborn with a whole new bunch of heroes. So, as they prepare to tie on their capes, I’ll get introducing the issue, one last time. Hot off the press, we’ve got our review of Avengers: Infinity War on Page 28. Don’t worry, it’s not horrendously spoilerific, but given the level of secrecy surrounding this film, read at your own risk! If you’d rather, you can play it safe with some MCU Quotes to Live By on Page 7, or if you fancy discovering the world of Marvel comics, we’ve got suggestions for you on Page 30. But if you’re sick of superheroes (we don’t blame you), we’ve got the lowdown on this year’s festival season with our annual guide. If you’re still deciding where to explore this summer, we’ve got previews of the best local and national festivals on Pages 17 and 18, and we turn the spotlight on our very own Common People on Page 15. On Page 21, our writers have come together to name their festival essentials – a list with everything from sunglasses to boxes of wine. It’s been a fantastic year for The Edge. We launched a beautiful rebrand, which earned as nod amongst the student publication heavyweights at this year’s SPA Awards; we triumphed as the Best Department at the university's Media Ball; we made the third annual Student Film Festival bigger and better than ever; and, most importantly, our writers consistently delivered the goods when it came to amazing print issues like this one.

The Team EDITOR

James Barker

editor@theedgesusu.co.uk

DEPUTY EDITOR

Rehana Nurmahi

deputy-editor@theedgesusu.co.uk

Head of Design Teague Hipkiss

design@theedgesusu.co.uk

NEws EDITOR

Robert Pratley

news@theedgesusu.co.uk

Features EDITOR Thea Hartman

features@theedgesusu.co.uk

recORDS EDITOR Meg Holland

records@theedgesusu.co.uk

film EDITOR

David Mitchell-Baker

film@theedgesusu.co.uk

Culture EDITOR Josh Nicholson

culture@theedgesusu.co.uk

Live EDITOR

Carly-May Kavanagh

live@theedgesusu.co.uk

Head of Relations Xavier Voigt-Hill

relations@theedgesusu.co.uk

Our little ol’ entertainment magazine is constantly surpassing expectations and making huge leaps forward. Behind all that is our committee, who constantly blow me away with their passion and dedication for The Edge. I can’t thank you all enough.

Head of publicity

So – best of luck to your new Editor, Thea Hartman, and her new team of caped crusaders as they assemble for the new year. The Edge is in safe hands! In the meantime, have a brilliant summer.

Online Manager

James Barker Editor 01

Maddie Armour-Chélu

publicity@theedgesusu.co.uk

Head of events

Octavia Woodward

events@theedgesusu.co.uk Hannah Dadd

manager@theedgesusu.co.uk

VP Creative Industries Evie Reilly

vpdci@susu.org With help from Sophie Jones (General Executive) and Sam Law (Records Executive)

EDITORIAL

Contents 28

for a Lifetime: 11 Lyrics Arctic Monkeys Edge’s Festival 14 The Guide for 2018 return of 29 The Kingdom Hearts

Editorial

01 Welcome to Issue Six 02 Contents

News

03 Newsbox 05 Nostalgic News

Features

07 Quotes to Live By: The MCU 09 Stage versus Screen: The Death of Theatre? 11 Lyrics for a Lifetime: Arctic Monkeys

Film

25 One to Watch: Hereditary 26 In Defence of Avengers: Age of Ultron 27 Actor In Focus: Josh Brolin 28 Review: Avengers: Infinity War

Culture

29 On Edge: Anticipating Kingdom Hearts III 30 The Best Comics for Fans of the MCU 31 Nine (totally serious) predictions for E3 2018 32 On Edge: Anticipating The Haidmaid’s Tale 33 Listings

Records

12 Rewind: Arctic Monkeys – AM 13 Rewind: Arctic Monkeys – ‘505’ & ‘Mardy Bum’

Festival Guide 15 16 17 18 19 20 21

Preview: Common People 2018 Common People Through The Ages Local Festival Previews National Festival Previews Local Live Acts: Festival Edition Up and Coming Acts this Festival Season The Edge’s Festival Essentials

Records

23 Artist in Focus: Beach House 24 Single Review: Chvrches – ‘Miracle’ Single Review: ZAYN – ‘Let Me’ Single Review: James Bay – ‘Wild Love’

Follow Us! /theedgesusu @theedgesusu @theedgesusu Front cover image courtesy of Marvel/Imax Contents background courtesy of wallpaperup.com

NEWS

Special Thanks News in Brief 1

Mistajam and Charlie Sloth announced for Graduation Ball 2018.

Edge alumni Barnaby Walter secures coveted book deal with Avon Publishing.

Nuffield Southampton Theatres announce new £10 ticket scheme.

Music icon Avicii, known for tracks ‘Levels’ and ‘You Make Me’, passes away in Oman aged 28.

Hamilton wins 7 Olivier Awards, while Cursed Child opens on Broadway.

A special thank you goes out from me to three absolutely amazing individuals who have massively helped me with the news section this year. Firstly, my executive Sophie Jones who has been absolutely invaluable. She has been a brilliant friend and I am forever grateful with her handling of Nostalgic News and Daily News. Secondly, Katja Stout for her consistent contributions to the section all year – it is that kind of consistency that helps news thrive. Finally, Lia Dent for taking my crazy idea of a monthly gaming news round-up and turning it into a fantastic series of articles that are consistently excellent. You all have my massive thanks.

THE EDGE’S ENTERTAINMENT PICKS EDITOR: ARCTIC MONKEYS, TRANQUILITY BASE HOTEL + CASINO, DOMINO RECORDS, 11/05/18 “The long awaited debut from Sheffield rockers Arctic Monkeys is still shrouded in mystery. At the time of writing, there’s been no singles released, only a short tease put on Twitter. What can we expect? Bloody brilliance, if Alex Turner and co. are involved.” NEWS: TASKMASTER, SEASON 6, DAVE, RETURNS ON 02/05/18 “The ridiculous gameshow featuring comedians doing outrageous tasks returns for a sixth season under the stewardship of cruel Taskmaster Greg Davies and faithful assistant Alex Horne. Sit back and enjoy Alice Levine, Asim Chaudhry, Liza Tarbuck, Tim Vine and Russell Howard attempting to out-idiot one another.” RECORDS: BEN HOWARD, NOONDAY DREAM, ISLAND RECORDS, 01/06/18 “Everyone’s favourite (okay maybe just mine) English singer songwriter is back after a four year hiatus and serving up luscious helpings of what we know and love from him, with the new addition of electric guitars...” FILM: SOLO: A STAR WARS STORY, DIR. BY RON HOWARD, 24/05/18 “Ignore the petty men children of the internet- Star Wars is not dead. And with Ron Howard’s upcoming gangster-heist prequel for everyone’s favourite scruffy looking nerf herder, you can bet anything that it ain’t going anywhere anytime soon..” CULTURE: STREET FIGHTER 30TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION, CAPCOM, 29/05/18 “The legendary fighting game is back! Just watch out for that Hadouken!” LIVE: COMMON PEOPLE 2018, SOUTHAMPTON COMMON, 26-27/05/18 “Boney M, Lily Allen and The Jacksons on our very own Common, literally what more could you want? Find out more in our Festival Insert, found on pages 15 to 21...”

NEWS

NOSTALGIC NEWS 40 YEARS AGO

20 YEARS AGO

Joe Williams One of the best musicals ever made, Grease became the ultimate summer movie after being released on 16th June 1978. The songs have certainly lasted the test of time: in particular, ‘Summer Nights’, ‘Greased Lightin’’ and ‘You’re the One That I Want’ are positively contagious. This is John Travolta at his sexiest and most charismatic, while Olivia Newton-John perfectly embodies the ‘girl next door’ character in its 1950s variety, an image of innocence subverted by a dramatic makeover late on. Stockard Channing’s Rizzo has the cynicism and worldweariness of someone three times her intended age, but she brings real attitude and bite: as does Jeff Conaway, who makes an electric pair with Travolta as the two alpha T-Birds. The iconic costumes and colourful set design are a crucial part of the charm, all in all creating a world where anything seems possible.

Sophie Jones

Grease was released

Disney’s Mulan was released

Disney’s tale of a cross-dressing warrior in Han dynasty was first released twenty years ago, on 19th June 1998. Mulan’s story is based on the legend of Hua Mulan, a young woman who takes her father’s place in the Chinese army. Disney added a love story between her and her captain, ancestral guardians, and musical numbers, to tell the story of identity and strength that has shown so many young girls that they don’t have to be a perfect bride, or be a man, to save China. Disney’s upcoming live action remake has already met backlash for possibly omitting Li Shang, a character hailed by many as bisexual, and for its introduction of a new magical female villain. Why fix what isn’t broken? The original animated classic is perfectly clear in its message that all you need to defeat the Huns is drag, a dragon, and a sweet training montage.

1993 1978

1998

25 YEARS AGO

Sleepless in Seattle was released

Amber-Louise Large Nora Ephron’s romantic-comedy was nominated for ‘Best Screenplay’ at both the Oscars and the BAFTAs - but how does it manage to turn a highly unbelievable (and honestly stalker-like) storyline into something so lovely? This film shouldn’t be romantic. Annie practically stalks Joe, travelling to Seattle from Baltimore and, after seeing him leave his house just as she is approaching, following him and watching him play on the beach with his son. You may need to be a romantic at heart in order to appreciate the soundtrack, too, which is unabashedly sentimental. But then with songs by the likes of Louis Armstrong, Nat King Cole, Gene Autry and Jimmy Durante what else could be expected? Jimmy Durante’s ‘Make Someone Happy’ epitomises this film. It sends the message that your life will be brighter if you can brighten up someone else’s. Sleepless in Seattle persists as one of the best romantic comedies of all time and it’s clear to see why. It’s also quite clear, however, that this is a film that could only have been made in the 90s. Let’s just be grateful it was! Images courtesy of Lionsgate. Tristar Pictures & Disney

NEWS

15 YEARS AGO

10 YEARS AGO

Tom Hills

Robert Pratley

Beyonce released Dangerously in Love

On the 23rd June 2003, Beyoncé Knowles released her debut solo album Dangerously in Love. Transitioning from being part of a hugely popular group to solo artist does not always guarantee success. For every Diana Ross there is a Victoria Beckham, for every Michael Jackson there is a Matt Willis (yes, he went solo) and for every Robbie Williams there is a Mark Owen. Dangerously in Love marked Beyoncé’s departure from Destiny’s Child and boy, was it a success. Scooping five Grammys, the album went multiplatinum and sold over eleven million copies worldwide, setting Beyoncé on the path to superstardom. Looking back on Beyoncé’s solo career, I firmly believe that this is her best solo album. Purely on density of hits, this album stands out from the crowd and also appears to be Beyoncé at her freest. Unburdened by expectation, creative restriction and the stresses of life, Dangerously in Love is an exhibition of an artist in full flow.

Iron Man was released

In what seems like an eternity ago, Marvel Films took a tentative leap into the unknown with Iron Man, released on 2nd May 2008. Starring Robert Downey Junior in a comeback role as the titular metal hero, the film sowed the scenes for the incredibly popular MCU that we know and love today. Billionaire playboy genius Tony Stark dons the suit to fight off Jeff Bridges’ Obadiah Stane, whom to the day remains one of the franchise’s best and most menacing villains. Gwyneth Paltrow works well as love interest Pepper Potts whilst Terrence Howard’s James “Rhodey” Rhodes adds extra charisma and a great dynamic with Downey Jr- if only staying shortly in the MCU himself. Iron Man was a critical and commercial success, making $585.2 million at the Box Office and spawning two sequels, plus a whole Avengers initiative. And by the time you read this, we’ll know whether Stark and co. have managed to fight off Thanos, or if their doom has finally arrived.

2003

2008

2018

2013

5 YEARS AGO

Daft Punk released Random Access Memories

Harry Fortuna Legendary French electronic duo Daft Punk released Random Access Memories five years ago on 17th May 2013, and with it, they provided not only their best and most complete album to date, but also gave us one of the decade's finest. It is justifiable to call Random Access Memories a modern classic, not just for its renowned birthing of the ultimate club classic ‘Get Lucky’ which soared to the top of the charts in 30 separate countries, but for its success as a fully formed package of dance-inducing genius. Track for track, the album is unrivalled in its field. The thirteen songs on the track list are perfected with a splattering of enticing collaborations, from the Strokes’ Julian Casablancas, to Chic’s Nile Rogers, and to the multitalented producer and singer Pharrell Williams. Littered with the highest of accolades, Random Access Memories topped the charts in over 25 countries, and sold over 339,000 copies in just its first week, going on to win Album of the Year at the 56th Grammy Awards, and more importantly, ‘Get Lucky’ can still be found on every party playlist. Images courtesy of Sony, Colombia/Daft Life & Marvel/Disney

FEATURES

QUOTES TO LIVE BY MARVEL CINEMATIC UNIVERSE Rehana Nurmahi

“Compromise where you can, but where you can’t, don’t. Even if everyone is telling you that something wrong is something right. Even if the whole world is telling you to move. It is your duty to plant yourself like a tree, to look them in the eye and say, no, you move.” - Sharon Carter (Captain America: Civil War, 2016) It’s a long quote yes, but one where every part of it is filled with such rich goodness. Spoken by her niece at her funeral, these words of the late Peggy Carter are a symbol of what true integrity looks like. In a world where people are so easily swayed by the various narratives being told around them, to remain firm in our beliefs is one of the strongest things we can do.

“Just because something works, doesn’t mean it can’t be improved.” - Shuri (Black Panther, 2018) Such wise words from everyone’s new favourite teen tech prodigy. Shuri constantly wants to do better, and I think that is such an example to the way we should approach our lives, especially our work. As easy as it is to just do something ‘good enough’, it is so much more satisfying and rewarding to strive for the best we can. Everything in life is a work in progress, and that’s not a depressing thing – it’s actually super exciting!

“I can’t control their fear, only my own.” - Scarlet Witch (Captain America: Civil War, 2016) Spending your whole life trying to control people’s perceptions of you is honestly so tiring. However, you can control your own mind, your own thoughts, and, as Scarlet Witch says here, your own fear. Worrying about what others are doing and feeling is just going to cause you unnecessary stress, and I know that sometimes it can’t be helped, but at least try and focus on your own feelings first!

FEATURES In its 10 years, 3 phases and 18 films, the Marvel Cinematic Universe has dominated our screens (and our lives) with epic action sequences, hilarious moments, and loveable heroes. However, as well as being raucous fun, the films have often provided tidbits of wisdom. Here are my picks of the inspiring, helpful and memorable quotes from the MCU that actually offer some life advice.

“I look around at us and you know what I see? Losers... I mean like, folks who have lost stuff. And you think life takes more than it gives, but not today. Today it’s giving us something. It is giving us a chance.” - Star Lord (Guardians of the Galaxy, 2014) Life doesn’t always give us a perfect hand, in fact, it often gives us a sub-par one. However, that often provides us the opportunity and the chance to make the most of it and do something worthwhile. We’re all losers, every single one of us, that’s not an experience individual to you – so don’t use it as an excuse to not stand up and do what’s right.

“It’s an imperfect world but it’s the only one we got.” - Tony Stark (Iron Man, 2008) Admittedly, Tony uses this as a way to justify selling weapons, and I don’t condone that. I do, however, think we can learn something from this outside of its context. Because it’s true – we live in a pretty messy and broken world – but it’s also true that it’s what we’ve been given, and we do have to make the best of that. The only way things will change is if we embrace the world around us and choose to be an active agent in it.

“I still believe in heroes.” - Nick Fury (Avengers Assemble, 2012) As we’ve established in all these quotes, sometimes life is really tough, and the world seems to need saving more and more. It can be easy to despair that we don’t live in a comic book world in which we have superheroes with superpowers on hand to save the day whenever it gets hard. What we do have, though, are the everyday heroes who fight constantly for freedom so that the people around them can have a fulfilling life. Look out for these guys more, and I promise that you’ll have a greater appreciation for both life and for humanity. I definitely still believe in heroes – I see them every day when I look around me.

FEATURES

STAGE v SCREEN THE DEATH OF THEATRE? Sophie Jones

odern cinema is spoilt with the powers of modern technology. With all the wonders of monsters and superheroes at our fingertips, it can be easy to see why less young people are choosing the theatre. Does the stage have anything left to offer young people, or is it reserved for the elite, the Shakespeare worshippers, and the technophobes? Here in Southampton, we have access to numerous touring productions at the Nuffield or Mayflower theatres, but there’s still the question of their relevance to young lives. Shakespeare can be complicated, modern theatre too abstract, both distant and inaccessible. However, there are productions out there trying to prove they can be otherwise. The Bridge Theatre’s production of Julius Caesar is one of them. This production prioritises audience engagement, opening with a live rock gig, the crowd in the pit following the moving stages and the Roman leaders and rebels who walk amongst them. While in the original Shakespearean, the play is clearly updated, with guns instead of daggers, referencing modern events such as Trump and Brexit in its exploration of the power of language to sway a crowd. It was also broadcast in cinemas nationally through National Theatre Live, but this was underwhelming compared to the irresistible adrenaline of being shoved around by the mobs and being told to get down as the rebels shot Caesar.

A new musical also appealing to younger, more modern audiences is Lin-Manuel Miranda’s historical musical hit, Hamilton. America’s founding fathers are reimagined as people of colour, reflecting the truth of modernday America, and stating the importance of immigrants in America’s history. The energy of this production is phenomenal. The Victoria Theatre is transformed into revolutionary America with bone-shaking booming canons, cleverly directed lighting, spinning stage parts, and intricate choreography. It also helps that Miranda’s music is more suited to modern ears, taking inspiration from hip-hop and pop, with speeding rap sequences and upbeat love ballads. While it might seem that theatre is not for you, there’s almost definitely something out there that will appeal to your interests. Love quiz shows? Quiz tells the (true) story of a contestant who tried to cheat on ‘Who Wants to Be a Millionaire’ by getting his friend in the audience to cough in code. R&B more your thing? A new musical biography of Tina Turner recently opened, by the director of Mamma Mia!. Writer of The History Boys has written a new play (directed by Julius Caesar’s Nicholas Hytner) and 2016’s A Monster Calls is coming to the stage. In terms of big names you can see live, Gandalf takes on Shakespeare as Ian McKellen is King Lear, while the 9th Doctor, Christopher Eccleston, is taking on Macbeth. Aidan Turner stars in The Lieutenant of Inishmore, and Emma Thompson appears in Chess, with music by half of ABBA. The cinema offers many things a stage cannot, but the theatre is unique in its opportunity to be part of the action. To see actors’ faces up close in real time, witness their raw emotion, mistakes and all, in a way that will only happen once, or whole battlefields and ballrooms materialising on the stage in front of you. The theatre world is also beginning to realise the importance of relating to young, modern audiences, and things are starting to change.

FEATURES

LYRICS FOR A LIFETIME: Harry Fortuna Since their inception, Arctic Monkeys have been the sound of a generation. Frontman Alex Turner is a lyricist so sophisticated and consistently poignant that he is unparalleled in the current day. In the midst of the band’s return after a four year absence with Tranquillity Base Hotel & Casino set to be released on the 11th of May, it seems poignant to delve back through their juicy back catalogue to find the indie rock giants’ finest lyrics so far. So, put on your leather jackets and slick back your hair, because here are some of the best...

“I’d probably still adore you with your hands around my neck / or I did the last time I checked.” – ‘505’

Favourite Worst Nightmare’s closing track tells the story of Alex Turner returning to his lover in a hotel room, simultaneously showing the frontman’s kinkier side.

“Sunglasses indoors par for the course / lights in the floors and sweat on the walls.” – ‘No. 1 Party Anthem’ This vivid depiction of a grungy night out is in equal parts nostalgic as it is mildly disgusting.

“Now then Mardy Bum / I’ve seen your frown / And it’s like looking down the barrel of a gun.” – ‘Mardy Bum’

Proving that north-eastern slang can make it on the world stage, ‘Mardy Bum’ harks back the band’s Sheffield roots in poetic fashion.

“Oh there ain’t no love / No, Montagues or Capulets / Just banging tunes and DJ sets / And dirty dancefloors and dreams of naughtiness.” – ‘I Bet You Look Good On The Dancefloor’ Showing his literary awareness Alex Turner channels Shakespearian romance into the modern day.

“You’re rarer than a can of dandelion and burdock / and those other girls are just post-mix lemonade.” – ‘Suck It And See’ The title track from the band’s fourth album again plunges into the questionable romanticism of adolescence.

“Arabella’s got some interstellargator skin boots / And a helter skelter ‘round her little finger and I ride it endlessly.” – ‘Arabella’ Plucked from AM, ‘Arabella’ is full to the brim with quotable lyrics, this one being the crowning glory.

Image courtesy of Domino Records

RECORDS

Rewind Albums

AM James Barker

t may be their fifth studio album, but AM introduced the Arctic Monkeys to a whole new generation. Hailed as “the greatest record of the last decade” by NME’s Mike Williams, this twelve-track masterpiece doesn’t have a duff note on it. From the pacy ‘Snap Out Of It’ to the soothing tones of ‘I Wanna Be Yours’, AM showcases a impressive versatility; even if moody guitar isn’t usually your type, you’d be weird not to fall for this intensely charming record. Alex Turner – or “a lyricist…unparalleled in the current day”, as my colleague deftly put it – flexes his creative muscles for his most vibrant, fun, sexy storytelling yet. It’s rare to find a musician that can balance thoughtprovoking lyrics with irresistibly catchy melodies, but Turner consistently delivers on AM. Every single composition offers something different but equally brilliant. From their genesis as angsty Sheffield teenagers, the

Arctic Monkeys have blossomed into one of the most significant bands in the 21st century. AM shows this maturation most starkly. Blending glorious American rock with distinctive British indie, this record offers something for everyone. Glorious highs include the seductive ‘Arabella’, where Turner’s tongue-twisting wordplay will leave you spinning; ‘Mad Sounds’, a soul bearing pause in the chaos; and the incredible ‘Why’d You Only Call Me When You’re High?’, which is as ingenious as its title would suggest. AM is the album that solidified the Arctic Monkeys as musical gods, and with Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino arriving imminently, the stakes are high. What little we’ve seen of Turner and co.’s new work hints at a completely new direction for the band, and nerves are running high. Whatever journey the Arctic Monkeys are about take us on, they’ve got a lot to live up to – but perhaps we should just trust in Turner’s genius, sit back, and enjoy the ride.

Image courtesy of Domino Records

RECORDS

Rewind

ARCTIC MONKEYS ‘505’

Harry Fortuna It is borderline impossible to avoid the name Arctic Monkeys at this moment in time, with the indie rock legends set to release their sixth studio album Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino. However, whilst the internet mulls over some of the questionable titles from the forthcoming release (‘The World’s First Ever Monster Truck’ and ‘The Ultracheese’ causing particular concern), it seems poignant to delve back into the Arctic Monkey’s discography and pluck out one of the best tracks from the lavish history of Britain’s biggest band. Harvested from 2007’s Favourite Worst Nightmare, ‘505’ continues the precedent set by ‘A Certain Romance’ in finishing with a hefty flourish. Fresh from the success of the band’s debut, with Favourite Worst Nightmare

Singles

the Arctic Monkeys had already shown a reluctance to standstill, a mobility that transformed Alex Turner from a chirpsy, angsty Sheffield lad to a deep brooding embodiment of suave machismo, and nowhere was that more clear to see than on the apprehending ‘505’. Lyrically, Turner is at his poetic best, as he makes his pilgrimage back to his awaiting lover in hotel room 505, he displays his tendency for the explicit as he croons over the lines “I’m always just about to go and spoil the surprise/ Take my hands off of your eyes too soon”. The song has become a ubiquitous presence in any Arctic Monkey’s live set list, and even with the introduction of Tranquility Base Hotel & Casino, it is unlikely that they’ll find a better track to close the night on.

ARCTIC MONKEYS

‘Mardy Bum’ Meg Holland

No look back at all things Arctic Monkeys can be complete without mentioning a track from the band’s now classic debut album Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not. ‘Mardy Bum’ is one such track from the now classic album, which features quintessentially northern Alex Turner singing all about adolescent love and heartbreak. With lyrics which have been sung at every single house party I’ve ever been to (“Remember cuddles in the kitchen/ Yeah, to get things off the ground” being a particular favourite), ‘Mardy Bum’ is

one of those records you can stick on in any situation. As we look forward to Tranquility Base Hotel + Casino, it’ll be interesting to see if the Arctic Monkeys will replicate the sound we’ve come to know and love from the band, or risk trying something completely new. Although it may be important for a band to continue growing their sound alongside their image, I hope they opt for a revival so we get to have another collection of ‘Mardy Bum’-like tracks on our hands.

Above image courtesy of Arctic Monkeys/Facebook; Image opposite courtesy of Surge Radio

FESTIVAL

GUIDE 2018

FESTIVALS

FESTIVAL PREVIEW:

Thea Hartman

fter bringing Sean Paul on the stage of our very own Common last year, local festival Common People is returning, bigger and better than ever! With a brilliant line-up spanning from ‘70s legends to upcoming bands playing across three stages, local food and drink, and the World’s Largest Disco Ball – all within a half an hour’s walk from our university – May Bank Holiday Weekend promises to be one of a kind. On Saturday the main stage is headlined by 2000s rebel pop queen Lily Allen (mere weeks ahead of the launch of her fourth album), along with Manchester rockers James, veterans Sparks, and the recently reunited girl group All Saints. These icons are accompanied by indie newcomers The Sherlocks, whilst Honeybloods and Milk Teeth are heading up the Uncommon Stage among other fresh rock’n’roll talents. Sunday has its own set of legends ready to knock it out of the park: The Jacksons (yes, those Jacksons) will hit the stage with undying hits such as ‘ABC’ and ‘I Want You Back’; Boney M. are bringing disco vibes to town with ‘Rasputin’ and ‘Daddy Cool’; while The New Generation, Prince’s band for twenty-five years, will bring one of the world’s greatest musicians’ legacy to the Common. While they definitely can’t go wrong with

Image courtesy of Surge Radio

such a dynamic line-up, the entertainment provided by Common People goes beyond live music. I mean, who can say no to dancing next to the World’s Largest Disco Ball while disco legends are playing the main stage? The organisers themselves are encouraging fancy dress on ‘Sequin Sunday in Southampton’ for what seems to be a rejuvenating day for disco. However, the fun doesn’t stop here; the big attractions also include Bestival’s Inflatable Church, Hampshire Cricket, Llama Karma, the Wall of Death, a bouncy castle, and a vintage fun fair. Of course, you’re not expected to have this much fun on an empty stomach. As always, the festival brings a variety of local street food for everyone to enjoy: from Indian Kitchen to The Gourmet Cheese Company, you’re sure to experiment with some fresh flavours at Common People. This is valid in terms of drinks as well, especially since the organisers are bringing The Great Solent Gin Festival to the table - a festival within a festival (how cool is that?), with more than 50 kinds of gins and its own artisan food market. However, if you’re not a gin fan in particular, there’s craft beer and ale on offer, a cocktail bus, and surely the occasional water. With music, food, drink, and entertainment for all tastes and ages, Common People is surely Southampton’s biggest event of the year. As organiser and Bestival co-founder Rob Da Bank said, “Come and join the party,” and come you should.

FESTIVALS

through the ages This year marks Common People’s fourth year providing entertainment to the Southampton masses. The Edge has been present for every glorious May weekend, with headliners including Sean Paul, Grace Jones, Duran Duran and local hero Craig David. To get an idea of what’s in store this year, check out these excerpts of years gone by.

COMMON PEOPLE 2017

Jessica Rose-Hector & James Barker Thousands of people flocked to Southampton common on the May Bank Holiday weekend for the much anticipated Common People Festival – and it certainly didn’t disappoint. With headliners Pete Tong, Sean Paul and Tom Odell, it’s no wonder the festival attracted so many students and families – and the weather certainly delivered too. […] From the vibrant light show courtesy of Pete Tong on Saturday, to Sean Paul’s energetic set on the Sunday evening, the music offered something for everyone. Fast establishing itself as the beating heart of Southampton’s live music scene, we can only hope Common People’s around for years to come.

COMMON PEOPLE 2016

Xavier Voigt-Hill Such is the adoration felt towards Craig David in his hometown of Southampton, he could easily have just stepped onto the stage at Common People on Saturday night to motionlessly croon a hit from the turn of the millennium before retreating to his Miami abode without a word and still cause a city to collectively swoon. Instead, he reminded us all just why he is a national treasure exploding for the second time as he brought a taste of that atmosphere to his family and thousands of friends with an emphatic display of cross-generational skills. […] Surveying the Common People site from atop a ferris wheel early on Sunday afternoon, a gentle reggae lilt emanating from David Rodigan and friends on the Uncontained Stage combined with a sky tinted the clearest of blues to paint a picture of sheer tranquility. Lazy days on the Common are tempting enough even without the allure of a fledgling festival.

COMMON PEOPLE 2015

Hannah Mylrea & Cameron Meldrum Common People is the latest addition to England’s festival season and the next in the growing trend of urban festivals. Run by the team behind Bestival and Camp Bestival, Rob da Bank and the gang have ditched the tents and wellies for a weekend and instead created a two-day festival in the heart of Southampton. […] Headliner Fatboy Slim pulled out all the stops in his performance; with a live choir performing a the beginning and end of the set, a grand piano being wheeled out for the finale of ‘Praise You’, a vibrant light show and zany visuals being projected behind him throughout. Astoundingly, the energy didn’t dip throughout, and was topped off by an impressive firework display, which rounded off day one at the festival.

Image courtesy of Surge Radio

FESTIVALS

LOCAL FESTIVAL PREVIEWS: 2ND – 5TH AUGUST

Harry Fortuna You drowsily peel open your tent on a sun drenched Lulworth Estate. As you finish rubbing your sleep deprived eyes, before you passes a hoard of clowns, fire-eaters, acrobats. A circus tent throbs in the distance. You can only be at one place: Bestival. This year’s circus themed extravaganza sees the likes of London Grammar, M.I.A. and Silk City take to The Castle Stage, whilst Mura Masa, Thundercat and Chaka Khan also adorn the Rob da Bank-curated line-up that brims with indie and dance excitement. Since the festival moved from the Isle of Wight in 2017 it has become one of the UK’s largest and quirkiest, and is certainly not one to be missed.

21ST – 24TH JUNE James Barker

It’s nearly time to venture back to the idyll that is the Isle of Wight – and in 2018, the festival is bigger than ever before. As it celebrates its 50th anniversary, organisers have pulled together their most memorable lineup since Jimi Hendrix and The Who headlined in 1970. Rock kings Kasabian will take to the stage as Friday’s headliners, while on Saturday, Oasis legend turned solo superstar Liam Gallagher is set to bring his rugged charm to IoW – sharing headliner status with the one-and-only Depeche Mode. To complete a line-up of incredible bands, American rockers The Killers are set to bring this landmark weekend to a spectacular close. Add that to four days of (hopefully) scorching June weather, and you’ve got the best weekend of the season sorted.

VICTORIOUS 24TH – 26TH AUGUST Carly-May Kavanagh

Much like Bestival 2017 where I saw The xx were going and I knew I had to go, when I saw The Libertines were going to be in Portsmouth I was compelled to ask our Head of Relations to send me. Here’s the thing: a festival with The Libertines, The Pigeon Detectives, Kaiser Chiefs, The Prodigy, The Amazons, Jerry Williams and Stereo Honey can only make for a fantastic late August weekend, even if they’ll be in Portsmouth when Southampton is, as we know, superior. Also, Victorious has a seaside stage, and if THAT doesn’t sound like the best way to listen to bands then I don’t know what is.

9TH – 12TH AUGUST Jed Wareham

BoomTown Fair is back for its tenth chapter in the heart of Hampshire this August bringing along some of the biggest names in the music industry ranging from the likes of American rap rockers Limp Bizkit, hip-hoppers Die Antwoord and the vastly popular Gorillaz. The festival, held in the beautiful town of Winchester, has a capacity of over 60,000 and has become its own buzzing metropolis amongst avid festival goers and ravers of all ages. After selling out in February of this year, 6 months before the event you can expect BoomTown to be an incredible spectacle and standout of 2018.

FESTIVALS

NATIONAL FESTIVAL PREVIEWS: >LL POINTS E>ST 25TH – 27TH MAY Harry Fortuna

In its debut year, the organisers of All Points East festival have pulled out all the stops from the offset, clearly keen to make an immediate impact. The line-up is an alternative and indie Valhalla, with the likes of the legendary LCD Soundsystem and the enticing eccentricity of Bjork. The brand-spanking new event is the first of its kind in the UK, dedicated almost entirely to alternative music. That being said, the three days brag an arsenal of a range of artists including Grammy nominated Lorde, rising rap star Stefflon Don, and the return of indie rock legends Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

THE GREAT ESCAPE 17TH – 19TH MAY

Carly-May Kavanagh The fact that it’s taken me my entire life to seriously entertain the thought of attending The Great Escape is frankly, upsetting. A festival that’s essentially hundreds of tiny gigs across various venues, in one of the most brilliantly alluring cities in the south, with a line up featuring the next big things in music? Sign me up. But who’s actually going? Børns, the 25-year-old dreamy indie pop artist; Jerry Williams, a BBC Introducing, unsigned, self-funded/releasing singer from Portsmouth who recently crowdfunded her way to SXSW; Superorganism, The Edge’s most recent cover stars who live together and make ridiculous music; and Wild Front, possibly my favourite Southampton band who make dreamy indie pop music and are big fans of hummus.

9TH – 10TH AUGUST Xavier Voigt-Hill

With Parklife, as brought to life by the folks behind Mancunian institution The Warehouse Project, you can forget about trudging through muddy fields for a week – the June 8th/9th weekend takeover of the picturesque Heaton Park has easily the most enticing lineup of this festival season. Headliners The xx and Liam Gallagher are about as guitary as you’ll get, as big names from the pop (Lorde, Sigrid), urban (N.E.R.D., Skepta), and electronic (Bonobo, Justice) worlds fill out its wide-ranging bill. Elsewhere, it’s party town with Elrow, Circoloco, and Pryda stages and amazing new names like Aussie oddballs Confidence Man and Nao’s protégé Tom Tripp. Also, free phone charging! It’s literally perfect.

24TH – 26TH AUGUST Sam Law

Once the UK’s main “rock festival”, Reading has recently been diversifying its lineups to reflect the changing face of modern popular music, and this year has reached a tipping point: out is the burger & chips, and in is the tapas. Saturday headliner Kendrick Lamar will absolutely be one to watch, but look beyond the main stages for acts as varied as The Magic Gang, Brockhampton, and Rex Orange County. Wolf Alice and The Vaccines will look to keep rock alive, while Skepta, Dua Lipa, and Travis Scott keep things diverse. Make no mistake: Reading is the festival to watch this summer.

FESTIVALS

LOCAL LIVE ACTS FESTIVAL EDITION Carly-May Kavanagh

Wondering where the best that Southampton has to offer will be this festival season? You’re in the right place...

CRAIG DAVID

Southampton superstar and “big in Florida’ Craig David graced Common People with his presence two years ago. Alas, he’s now taking TS5 all the way from Sheffield to Clapham, and what a shame I won’t be at any festivals he’s at this year! He shot to fame in 1999 after appearing on Artful Dodger’s ‘Re-Wind’. With six studio albums under his belt and 15 million records sold across the world, he’s a pretty big deal, having won two Grammy Award nominations for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance and thirteen Brit Award nominations. If his sets are anything like his intimate run of shows at Southampton’s Mayflower Theatre, it’ll certainly be a slick set.

2018 Performances:

Friday at Tramlines, Sheffield Wednesday at Boardmasters, Newquay Friday at Rize, Chelmsford Friday at The Big Festival, Kingham Saturday at South West Four, Clapham

JERRY WILLIAMS

This fantastic Portsmouth singer/songwriter is not only good friends with our pals over at Surge Radio, but recently crowdfunded her way to SXSW in Texas. If she isn’t signed soon, there genuinely might be something wrong with the A&R going to her shows because she’s nothing short of incredible. You know those people who are around your age and make you think “Wow, what am I doing with my life, they’re already smashing it”? She’s definitely one of those. Her gigs are always a joy to attend - naturally, with songs like latest release ‘Grab Life’ and ‘Mother’, which to date boasts over 5 million streams - and I am beyond excited to see her at The Great Escape.

2018 Performances:

Saturday at Roundhouse, London Thursday at The Great Escape, Brighton Saturday at Neighbourhood Weekender Friday to Sunday at Wychwood, Cheltenham

WILD FRONT

It shouldn’t be a surprise to know we love Wild Front they’re lovely people, half of them are vegan, and (perhaps most crucially) they make some beautiful music. Their dreamy indie rock music has made them incredibly popular in Southampton (how many other bands could sell out three gigs in three months at one venue?), and they’ve just released an EP called Stripped, featuring five already existing tracks which have been - you guessed it - stripped back to gorgeous acoustic versions. Wild Front really is a band to check out if you want to hear some beautiful music. Background image courtesy of Georgina Harrison

2018 Performances:

Friday at Tramlines, Sheffield Wednesday at Boardmasters, Newquay Friday at Rize, Chelmsford Friday at The Big Festival, Kingham Saturday at South West Four, Clapham

FESTIVALS

UP & COMING ACTS

THIS FESTIVAL SEASON Xavier Voigt-Hill

Exploring festivals this year? Here’s some names you can expect to see dominating line-ups across the UK in 2018...

DREAM WIFE

2018 Performances:

Saturday at Common People, Soton Thursday at The Great Escape, Brighton Friday at Reading Festival Thursday at Standon Calling, Standon Friday at Hidden Door, Edinburgh

Although even Arctic Monkeys seem to have abandoned straightforward guitar music now, reports of its death have been greatly exaggerated. Dream Wife – the AngloIcelandic punk trio of singer Rakel Mjöll, guitarist Alice Go, and bassist Bella Podpadec – were the first to prove that in 2018, with their self-titled glorious racket of a debut making a rambunctious mark on listeners in January thanks in no small part to radio support on singles ‘Hey Heartbreaker’ and ‘Let’s Make Out.’ One stop on their English summer is Southampton, where they’ll be bringing their thunder to the headline spot on the Uncommon Stage on Sunday evening.

ICARUS

2018 Performances:

Saturday at Parklife, Manchester Saturday at SW4, London Friday at Beat-Herder Festival, Lancashire Saturday at Mint Festival, Leeds

Bristolian house fraternity Tom and Ian Griffiths are a rare double threat, with each new release flitting between the gutwrenching and emotive (‘They Are Not Like You,’ ‘Home’) and outright bombastic dancefloor smashes (‘Love Has Come Around,’ ‘King Kong’). April’s In The Dark EP – including four tracks and their own melancholic reimagining of new single ‘Flowers’ – is the latest fodder for their repertoire, and with talk regularly surrounding a full-on extended project, festivalgoers are sure to be treated to the next big thing as Icarus returns to their instrumental roots with their all-new live show, as exhibited via a sell-out headline tour earlier this year.

REX ORANGE COUNTY

2018 Performances:

Saturday at All Points East, London Saturday at Primavera Sound, Spain Friday at Best Kept Secret, Netherlands Sunday at Dour Festival, Belgium

In 2014, The Guardian described a rush hour train to Haslemere as where to go “to feel what it’s like to be a 57-yearold financial services analyst,” such is its adherence to leafy suburban stereotypes. 19-year-old BRIT School alumnus Alex O’Connor is pitching himself towards a very different life, however, after a rapid ascent that has seen him on stage alongside Skepta for his Mercury Prize homecoming and feature across Tyler, The Creator’s acclaimed Flower Boy. Two albums deep (2016’s bcos u will never b free and 2017’s Apricot Princess) combining tender musings on love and life with jazzy, soulful inflections and introspective rap, a panel of industry experts voted him second only to Norwegian pop royalty Sigrid in the BBC’s Sound of 2018 poll in January.

All images courtesy of PR groups.

THE

FESTIVALS

EDGE’S

FESTIVAL ESSENTIALS

Everyone has different priorities at a festival - maybe yours is getting in as much time at the stages as possible, desperate to see that new up-and-coming artist or your all-time favourite. Whatever your priorities are this festival season, here are our writers’ festival essentials.

BUM BAG

Corrie David All your essentials safely stored around your waist. Plus someone decided they’re fashionable again so double win (and a cheeky hip flask to put inside, student life doesn’t budget for £5 ciders). Glitter to cover up five day old festival skin. Bandanas too, the weekend festival exclusive garment to fool people into thinking your hair isn’t greasy. Bonus points if you go into a crowd wearing it and come out without it.

SUNGLASSES

James Barker Optimistically packing your shades is a must for festival season. There’s nothing worse than watching [insert your favourite indie band here] but not being able to see a bloody thing thanks to a massive, beautiful, extremely bright sunset. Undoubtedly, you persevere and stare at the great old fireball for the entire set – only to end up with a miserable headache by the time the headliner arrives.

WATERPROOF TROUSERS David Mitchell-Baker

You may look like a middle aged man on a rainy bank holiday hike, but damn if they’re not useful as all hell at festivals. You can literally sit down anywhere without concern, they’ll keep your shoes dry from rain and will leave you at least 50% less soaked through by the end of the day. But mainly the sitting part, literally anywhere you want. I cba to stand for 12 hours straight – man needs his sitting time.

LUNCH

Carly-May Kavanagh A loaf of bread, a condiment you like, a way of spreading said condiment, and a tub or tinfoil/ clingfilm. Technically multiple items, but when combined you have a sandwich which you can make every morning for breakfast, and possibly a second for lunch. This way you’ll save a ridiculous amount of money; even if you don’t like sandwiches, you should be too exhausted/drunk/busy to care.

BOXES OF WINE Jake Willis (surprise surprise)

Multiple boxes of red wine, preferably three or more. This will get you through both the good and the bad of the festival, even those times when your friends try and drag you to Digital Farm Animals and you would rather jump off those Newquay cliffs into the Atlantic Ocean below. You should all try Boardmasters btw.

Image courtesy of Surge Radio

RECORDS

IN FOCUS Beach House Tom Brewster Beach House Tom Brewster

he way that Baltimore dream-pop duo Beach House talk about their music is endlessly inspiring. Vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Victoria LeGrand talks of their creative process in vague, yet pertinent terms – how their technique involves discovering ‘what the song wants’, leading to ‘an emotional colour that starts to come out of something’ – and if you ‘love [that] something… that’s what going to take you somewhere’. This approach has led to the band to produce music that’s elegant, truthful and emotionally complex. Across six albums, they’ve been instrumental in defining the dream-pop genre, carving out a niche sound that wraps its listener in layers of soothing, soporific noise. The inside of your eyelids look their best when listening to Beach House. In 2006 Beach House released their self-titled debut to much acclaim – its low fidelity dream-pop sound capturing those that listened closely, paving the way for what was to come. It immediately installed Victoria LeGrand and Alex Scally as the mysterious newcomers to the indie scene, the single ‘Apple Orchard’ landing on Pitchfork’s Infinite Mixtape series, and ‘Master of None’ being used in the Aziz Ansari show of the same name. Held within these simple melodies were songs concerned with heartbreak, and reflections on lost love that leapt out of their bedroom-pop setting. Their second album, Devotion, followed soon after, but Beach House didn’t reach the peak of their early sound until their third album, which truly pushed them into the limelight with the duo seeking to amplify their sound whilst keeping their core ethos intact. The result was the opulent, glimmering Teen Dream, an album that oscillates between ecstatic

ballads of joy and mournful epitaphs of heartbreak. Bloom, Beach House’s 2012 masterpiece, presented the most radical departure from their bedroom roots. Album opener ‘Myth’ is the record’s mission statement – exploding outwards into a soaring, grandiose cathedral of sound, that immerses its listener fully into its world. The album is full of songs like this, incorporating more live drumming into their sonic palate to create bigger songs to fill bigger spaces as their popularity grew exponentially. After the album’s release, Beach House set off on a rigorous touring schedule, followed by a short hiatus before returning to the studio to record Depression Cherry, soon followed by Thank Your Lucky Stars. These albums were reversions to their earlier work – moving away from the grand scale of previous records to refocus on a smaller, more intimate sound. The desire to stay away from the more commercial aspects of the music industry has stuck with the band – not letting themselves really exist ‘on social media… or [as] anything besides music’ – letting their songs act as their mouthpiece. And this brings us into the present, with the duo gearing up for their latest album, 7, one with a title so simple the listener is ‘encourage[d]... to look inside’ to see ‘some kind of heavy truth’ that drives the music. The album is shaping up to truly be what the band is promising – a record of fearless exploration into new territories, of total creative freedom and of boundless wonder in the world around them. Beach House’s seventh studio album, 7 is out May 11th via Bella Union Image courtesy of Bella Union

RECORDS

SINGLES REVIEWS: CHVRCHES

ZAYN

Harry Fortuna

Tom Hills

LET ME

MIRACLE

Glaswegian trio CHVRCHES have released new song ‘Miracle’, a pop-fuelled feel good anthem that completes the four preview singles for their upcoming album Love is Dead. With the introduction of ‘Miracle’ it would seem we have now witnessed the climax of not only the forthcoming Love is Dead, but also arguably of CHVRCHES’ career so far. As shown on the previous releases

supporting the album, we’re already aware that the band are straying from their typical synthridden sound into a more pop-like realm, and ‘Miracle’ shows that this is not some throwaway experiment. The electronic furnishings, partnered by a restricted use of their traditional synth, results in a song born to be blasted out of a car window on a summer night. Love is Dead is out May 25th via Virgin Records

In the two years since he released the charttopping Mind of Mine, ZAYN’s release schedule has been sporadic yet successful. The release of solo venture ‘Let Me’ is a welcome change which offers positive signs for his upcoming album. ‘Let Me’ is pure, smooth R&B designed to tug on the heart strings and make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. Written eight months ago when he was still in the midst of a blissful relationship with supermodel Gigi

Hadid, the lyrics are now a bittersweet reminder of the past. Matching up gentle guitar chords with a subtle bassline and persistent synths, the track builds effectively to a crescendo of ZAYN’s aching falsetto. Look out for this one to rise the charts rapidly – despite his acrimonious exit, ZAYN is still able to exert considerable control over the hearts of Directioners. ‘Let Me’ is out now via RCA Records

JAMES BAY

WILD LOVE

Ivan Morris-Poxton James Bay‘s award-winning debut album, Chaos and The Calm, was always going to be difficult to replicate. So why replicate, when you can move into an entirely different direction? Well, simple really – don’t suffer the fate of ‘Wild Love’, which falls short as the ambition behind it is not matched by its execution. A heavy synth overlay dominates the track, with a modern-pop oriented sound, as opposed to Bay’s previous indie rock. Whereas ‘Hold Back the River’ produced an increasingly pacy refrain of “Hold back the river, let me look into your eyes”, ‘Wild Love’ rarely breaks out of a lethargic rhythm.

It’s not an entirely negative verdict on ‘Wild Love’. For one thing, Bay’s vocals do maintain an intense allure, drawing the listener into the track and into considering the feelings of immediate yearning for someone, which Bay is seeking to evoke. Ultimately though, what makes ‘Wild Love’ a rather forgettable track are its lyrics. There’s no particularly fine hint of subtlety to it, with the chorus and repetition of the line “I Wanna Give You Wild Love” becoming irritating, rather than a catch. It’s hard not to come away from ‘Wild Love’ with some degree of disappointment. Electric Light is out May 18th via Republic Records Images courtesy of Virgin Records, RCA Records & Republic Records

FILM

ONE TO WATCH Hereditary

Sophie Trenear

lready branded as the “most insane horror movie in years,” upcoming horror flick Hereditary didn’t just play early audiences like a fiddle when it premiered at Sundance Film Festival earlier this year. It slammed their insides like a grand piano. No doubt about to join the legions of clever horror helmed by the likes of The Babadook, It Follows, Get Out and, most recently, John Krasinski’s A Quiet Place, Ari Aster’s blood-curdling debut has been praised for its raw “emotional terrorism” which couples impeccable haunted-house genre thrills with deeper anxieties that niggle long after the film’s final moments. Hereditary is set to anchor its terrors to unbearable emotion and the warped genius of using these raw feelings to enhance to potency of its scares and set pieces. Not much is known about the film’s plotline, apart from its sinister synopsis which involves a family caught in an inwardly collapsing spiral of grief. Toni Collette has been heralded for her performance as Annie Graham, a diorama artist who creates small models of her spaces, both emotional and physical, whose unloving mother has just passed away. The loss has created something of a storm cloud over the family’s home, straining Annie’s relationship with her family, leaving them under threat by a strange supernatural force.

The latest trailer focuses on Charlie (Broadway’s Mily Shapiro), Annie’s disturbed young daughter. Some of the best horrors feature creepy, evil-esque children, but Hereditary might be the next great horror child to rival The Exorcist’s Regan, Orphan’s Esther and The Ring’s Aidan Keller. The trailer shows Charlie entranced by a stack of tree branches and sticks piled on her desk, cutting off the head of a dead bird with a pair of classroom scissors, and just generally be sort of, well, out of it. Currently sitting at 100% on Rotten Tomatoes, what is perhaps most exciting about the film is its meditation on all too real issues. “I wanted to make a film that worked as a family drama first before even attending to the horror elements,” Aster noted. “The film is a family tragedy that curdles into a horror film.” Perhaps plenty of viewers may have trouble handling the mix of bleak family drama with impeccably staged, nightmarish horror. But I’m equally sure it’s a challenge plenty of horror fans will gladly accept. They’ll get their chance soon too, with its release coming in June. Just don’t say you weren’t warned. Hereditary (2018), directed by Ari Aster, will be released in the UK on June 15th 2018, certificate 15.

Image courtesy of A24

FILM

IN DEFENCE OF Avengers: Age of Ultron

Alice O’Hare

t the time of its cinema release, Avengers: Age of Ultron was a massive hit. Fans swarmed in their masses to go and see the sequel to 2012’s The Avengers, going on to become the seventh highest grossing film of all time at the worldwide box office. Yet, after the hype, those same audiences began to bash it from all angles, it has unfairly been associated with a sense of what could’ve been. Sequels never have it easy, but when you’re following one of the biggest films of all time, the pressure is undoubtedly ramped up to unheard-of levels. Much of the criticism that Age of Ultron received was based on the suggestion that it wasn’t as good as the original. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with thinking one film is better than another, but to expect a director to copy the original when producing a sequel restricts creative freedom – how can a filmmaker take risks and move a story forward if they are expected to produce the same film? It’s clear that director Joss Whedon tried to sustain the charm of the original, whilst moving the franchise forward and tying the phases together. Everything we’ve come to expect from the MCU is present and, simultaneously, Whedon manages to add a touch more maturity that develops the story further; for even attempting that, he should be applauded. The draw of the MCU has always been that it brings everyone’s favourite heroes together, yet Age of Ultron was criticised for not doing enough to make us like the new characters. The original team were joined

by Scarlet Witch, Quicksilver and Vision, paving the way for more heroes in Avengers: Infinity War. The introduction of some of these new faces was smoother than others, audiences failed to warm to Vision in particular. The unlikable qualities of his character are nothing new as even avid fans struggled to get on-board back in 1968 when he was introduced into the comics – it seems unwarranted to therefore blame these flaws on a film made 50 years later. Many expressed their disappointment in the lack of emotional depth to the film, but it’s worth remembering that this is a blockbuster, designed to excite, rather than provoke. It’s great when films can do all of these things, but the main function of a film like this is to provide enjoyment for the masses and it delivers on this front; the jaw-dropping climactic fight sequences hold their own against the similar showings in The Avengers. We’re all entitled to have different tastes, but there is nothing harmful about a film that makes people smile from ear-to-ear and provides a thrilling break from the outside world. Perhaps it doesn’t quite deliver the same amazement as The Avengers, but to expect Age of Ultron to be the same film and make us feel the same way places it at a disadvantage before its even begun. It does everything a superhero film should do and more, providing excitement, suspense and heart-wrenching moments in equal measure – what’s wrong with a little bit of smash-em-up fun every now and again? Image courtesy of Marvel/Disney

FILM

ACTOR IN FOCUS Josh Brolin Joe Williams

osh Brolin has always been surrounded by celebrities, with James Brolin for a father, Barbra Streisand for a stepmother, an engagement to Minnie Driver, and a marriage to Diane Lane. His first performance came in 1985’s The Goonies when he was still a teenager, making him a member of the ‘Spielberg Club’ - the pantheon of child actors who have given great performances under the filmmaker. He has since emerged as one of the most natural character actors of his generation. If you want aloof, rugged, or a perfect Tommy Lee Jones impression, Brolin is the best bet. He followed up The Goonies with skateboarding movie Thrashin’, but lamented his own performance and stepped away from the screen for a while. He wouldn’t star in another film until The Road Killers in 1994. Before he rose to prominence with No Country for Old Men in 2007, Brolin worked with a number of celebrated directors in bit parts and supporting roles, including David O. Russell (Flirting with Disaster), Guillermo Del Toro (Mimic) and Woody Allen (Melinda and Melinda). Then the Coen Brothers came calling. Brolin’s performance in No Country for Old Men is often forgotten, almost all the attention given to Javier Bardem’s psychotic hitman Anton Chigurh, but his Llewelyn Moss is a neo-western cowboy we sincerely root for. 2008 was a political year for Brolin, first playing George W. Bush in Oliver Stone’s biopic W. and then murderer Dan White in Milk alongside Sean Penn.

The latter earned him his first and only Academy Award nomination, for Supporting Actor. Brolin is the perennial supporting player, though this is a position he seems more than happy to be in. His choosiness with roles was perhaps reinforced by the misstep that was Jonah Hex, where Brolin played the titular character. He’s been a prolific performer over the last ten years, appearing in both highbrow fare and popcorn entertainment. One of his best performances came with Paul Thomas Anderson’s Inherent Vice in 2014, demonstrating genuine comic chops as part of his usual gruff demeanour. The scene where Joaquin Phoenix’s Doc looks on in horror as Brolin’s Detective Bigfoot goes to town on a phallic frozen banana is utterly hilarious. 2014 was the same year that Brolin first appeared as Thanos in Guardians of the Galaxy, becoming a tantalising threat that has bubbled under the surface of the epic MCU for what has seemed like an eternity. Though he has only showed up sparingly so far, Brolin appears to bring a genuine gravitas to the supervillain hoping to end all supervillains. But Thanos isn’t the only iconic comic-book character he’ll be playing this year: Brolin has signed a fourfilm deal with Fox to play Cable in a more human capacity, starting with this May’s Deadpool 2. If these two roles are going to be his most-beloved, Josh Brolin will have done it his way - as the supporting man, elevating the work of everyone around him.

FILM

REVIEW:

INFINITY WAR Joe Williams

o say too much about Avengers: Infinity War would be to spoil it. After all, this is possibly the most anticipated movie of all time. 10 years in the making, it’s the culmination of multiple narratives and brings together characters from all corners of the MCU. With immeasurable hype, comes high expectations, and desperate hope that it won’t disappoint. With the Russo brothers in control we should never have been in doubt. Simply put, there has never been a film as epic as Infinity War. This is Marvel’s most ambitious story so far, considering the lofty nature of the material, with an intergalactic scale of events, jumping from planet to planet. Earth is still involved, but that can be temporarily forgotten with the frequency of shifts from one landscape to another. Some may fault this, the brevity of certain scenes meaning we cannot invest in the actions taking place. Though this is true in a few cases, the galaxy-exploring provides the grandiose quality that Marvel’s biggest bad demands. Thanos is everything to Infinity War. In order for the drama to work, he must be convincing. Fortunately, he steals the film. In one fell swoop, he has rocketed straight to the top of the list of

Marvel’s villains. This is in part due to astonishing visual effects work, with both Thanos and the movie itself. Though he resembles a mix of Bruce Willis and a purple grape, the extraordinary detail of the VFX means that we deeply believe in Thanos as a character. The writing of this portion of the story, which is of sizeable focus, is stellar. His motivations are laid out in a defined way, with goals that have a surprising resonance in a real-world context. The brutal terror he inflicts on our heroes means that we cannot go as far as to sympathise, but we can understand why he is doing what he does. Assembling such a significant quantity of beloved characters means several possibilities for fun interactions, an opportunity the Russos don’t miss. There are great team-ups, whether momentous or brief, with one trio of female heroes coming together in battle being a highlight. Some characters fall by the wayside, even those you might expect to be central, though it becomes clear why this is the case as Infinity War draws to a close, likely as there is a sequel due next year. However, it does not fall into the trap of Deathly Hallows or Mockingjay, there is enough excitement in this instalment alone to keep us satisfied several lifetimes over. It’s also funny, almost effortlessly so. Marvel Studios has never played it entirely straight-faced, though this may be their most seamless blend of levity and pathos yet. With the likes of Star-Lord, Thor and SpiderMan around, this was never going to be unbearably bleak. But it does succeed in doing what critics have long chastised the Marvel Cinematic Universe for: high stakes are established almost immediately, the breathtaking third act raising them to staggering levels. As the film ends, we are left in a position where anything could happen next. With elements of Greek tragedy, Infinity War is everything audiences wanted and then some. Thanos has arrived in style. Image courtesy of Marvel/Disney

CULTURE

Anticipating Kingdom Hearts III

David Mitchell-Baker

years. That is how long gamers in the western world have waited for the next main, numerical entry into the Kingdom Hearts franchise. But that’s not to say that fans of the RPG cult franchise have been short changed: in total there have been ten entries into the series, across eight different console platforms. But whilst there is story advancement and lore development in each instalment, the two numerical PlayStation entries are the ones that fans live for. Which is why the seemingly forever elusive release of Kingdom Hearts III, is such a highly anticipated event. The story of Kingdom Hearts, Game Boy Advance follow up Chain of Memories, and Kingdom Hearts II told the story of young Sora (voiced by Haley Joel Osment), a boy torn from his home world, along with his best friends Riku and Kairi, after an attack by the hordes of darkness known as The Heartless. What follows is an epic fantasy adventure, where Sora is bequeathed with the legendary Keyblade, a powerful, mystical weapon that has the power to end the spread of The Heartless, and he finds himself teaming up Donald Duck and Goofy (don’t adjust your screen) to save the worlds from The Heartless, and later a dark force called Nobodies and the mysterious Organisation XIII, find Sora’s

friends and Donald and Goofy’s king, Mickey Mouse. If you hadn’t guessed already, the Kingdom Hearts series sees Disney meet Final Fantasy, by way of some typically cyberpunk/fantasy original content from Square Enix. Yes, seriously. The levels of the games are set in a different Disney film, complete with hero team ups like Tarzan, Jack Skellington and Peter Pan, where Sora and co. must battle to defeat the evil conglomerate of Disney big bads, including Jafar, Scar and even deep cuts like Sark and the MCP, headed up from behind the scenes by Maleficent. Whilst an official release date is yet to arrive, Kingdom Hearts III is hovering over 2018, waiting to be dropped into the gaming pool, causing a tidal wave impact of fandom when it does. Fan anticipation is that damn high, because it’s finally happening, it’s finally definitely happening, bringing with it the conclusion to the wonderful journey many gamers started on fifteen years ago when they picked up Kingdom Hearts for the very first time. Simply put, it’s the game franchise of a generation, and it’s about to reach its zenith. Kingdom Hearts III is scheduled for release in 2018. Image courtesy of Square Enix

CULTURE

The Best Comics for MCU fans Sam Law The Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) has been one of the greatest cinematic successes of our generation, with the original Avengers raking in a box office of over $1.5 billion and the recent Black Panther receiving a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. With excitement for Avengers: Infinity War taking the world by storm, now would seem an ideal time to venture into the world of the comics that inspired the recent spate of terrific superhero flicks.

Thanos: The Infinity Gauntlet, The Infinity War & The Infinity Crusade

Try saying those with your mouth full! Long-winded titles aside, this trio of early-’90s Marvel crossover events serve as the direct inspiration for Avengers: Infinity War and next year’s asyet untitled Avengers 4, so are clear starting points for fans enthused with this summer’s blockbuster. Although The Infinity Gauntlet looks to be the most closely adapted of the three, War and Crusade are series well worth reading if you’re at all interested in the more cosmic side of the Marvel universe. That said, as they are such huge crossover events, the going can be a bit hard at times, so for all those put off by the sheer scale of the Infinity storyline there is of course...

Secret Wars

Probably the most crazy, far-flung, and yet wildly fantastic comic book crossover event to have ever featured in the Marvel universe, the original 1984/1985 run of Secret Wars saw heroes including the Avengers, the Fantastic Four, the X-Men, and Spider-Man transported to a battle planet to do combat battle royale-style against villains such as Doctor Doom, Doctor Octopus, and Ulysses Klaue. It’s mad, fun, and surprisingly touching all at once, but also featured plot twists that affected the whole of the Marvel universe at the time, eventually going down as one of the most beloved runs in Marvel’s history.

Watchmen

Finally, if the Infinity trilogy’s depth and scope put you off that classic run, and if you’re not drawn in by Secret Wars’ absurd hijinks, there is of course the classic satirical series that featured in Time’s list of the 10 greatest graphic novels of all time. Since adapted into an entertaining but often muddled film in 2009 by Zack Snyder, Watchmen took place in an alternate 1985 America where superheroes existed, but had been outlawed. Exploring themes of corruption, power, and of the implications of the Superman walking among us, Watchmen is one of the deepest and most insightful examinations of human society in popular culture. A story designed deliberately for graphic novelization, it is beautifully brought to life by Dave Gibbons’ masterful artistry, with each panel working to the medium’s strengths, each image popping from the page and oozing with character. Wherever you choose to start, the world of comics is rich, exciting, and extremely rewarding. The success of the MCU has catapulted these stories to the spotlight they have always deserved, with more people than ever investing in physical subscriptions or checking out the wealth of comics available digitally. With ever more superhero movies scheduled to hit theatres for years to come, these can only be good times for fans and authors alike of the wonderful world of comic books. Image courtesy of Marvel Comics

CULTURE

(TOTALLY SERIOUS) PREDICTIONS FOR: Ellis Murrell Every gamer knows that June may as well be our national holiday. E3, or the Electronic Entertainment Expo, is an annually-run event taking place in Los Angeles where game publishers and developers have an opportunity to showcase their works for an audience of enthusiastic gamers. The show is often host to the most exciting announcements on the gaming calendar, with recent years revealing a Final Fantasy VII remake, Bloodborne and The Last Guardian, as well as some of the most tedious, cringeworthy PR stunts you will ever see. I fully expect this year to be no different. So, bearing in mind the traditions and trends of E3 past, lets do a run-down of what we should expect!

Microsoft, in order to try and match the recently-announced Nintendo Labo, announces a new ‘Make Your Own Lootbox’ service, where they will personally hand-pack and deliver your onlinebought gaming lootbox. Games expected to make use of this service include Destiny: Whatever the Hell We Call Our Next Expansion and Loot Wars: Battlefront II.

343 Industries announces the latest entry in the Halo series, Halo 6: The Search for a Subtitle. Refreshing updates to the core gameplay and online multiplayer are expected.

Microsoft finishes their conference in typically-underwhelming style, with a half-hour long presentation on the new football kicking technology they’re implementing in FIFA 19. Despite Twitch stream viewers quickly departing the livestream in vast numbers, everyone still buys the game anyway.

Sony debuts a new trailer for the aforementioned Final Fantasy VII, confirming that the release date is still at least five years away. To tide you over they also announce a new DLC for Final Fantasy XV, allowing you to cook hotdogs for some reason.

Hideo Kojima, the famous developer behind the Metal Gear Solid game series and the forthcoming Death Stranding, comes onto the stage to the sound of spurrious applause, says ‘Hello’, and then leaves without showing anything. His appearance is nevertheless the highlight of the show.

To close out the conference, Sony announce Playing Outside Simulator for the Playstation VR. The gameplay includes walking your virtual dog, making daisy chains and sunbathing.

A new Mario game taking place during the Second World War is revealed, called Super Mario Dunkirk. Gameplay involves throwing fireballs at German Panzers and liberating Princess Peach from Bowser’s fortress in Vichy France.

Ubisoft shows off Assassins Creed: Martyr, a new title set in Shirley, Southampton. The series’ iconic hidden blade is replaced with a special syringe that the protagonist can use on his enemies. Portsmouth FC are all templars.

Donald Trump tweets “Still no Demon Souls remake, Sony? Sad!” And then the conference wraps up, leaving everyone with a crippling disappointment which they will subsequently forget when the next year’s E3 rolls around.

CULTURE

Anticipating The Haidmaid’s Tale Season 2

Amber-Louise Large

he finale of the first season of The Handmaid’s Tale left Offred in the same place that the original novel left her: in a black van, putting her trust in Nick, unsure of whether she is being driven towards freedom or towards punishment. What the show left out, however, was the epilogue of the novel which is set in 2195 and takes the form of a transcript of a meeting between historians. What is revealed is that the preceding story is supposed to be a reconstruction of audio tapes found in what was, during the Gilead period, a waystation on the ‘The Underground Femaleroad’. These audio tapes are Offred’s and their location is the only indication of where the black van may have driven her. It’s all speculation, however, and the historians cannot confirm whether our protagonist reached ‘the outside world safely’ to build a new life, whether she was ‘discovered’ and ‘sent to the Colonies or to Jezebel’s, or even executed’. In the last line of the novel the lecturer asks: ‘are there any questions?’ Readers, and now viewers of the first season, have many. The second season promises to give us some answers. Some of the answers are already alluded to in the season two trailer. What the epilogue of the novel does tell us is that Frederick Waterford ‘met his end…in one of the earliest purges’ after being accused of ‘liberal tendencies’. It appears that the second season will continue to focus on Waterford and his impending punishment, but it is not certain whether his end will be the same one he meets in the novel. The first season did change the fate of a lot of characters. Janine, for example, is last seen

at the Particicution in the novel. Offred notes that she looks mentally unstable after her baby’s death and the reader has no idea what happens to her after this point. In the first season we saw the same character sentenced to death after putting her surviving baby at risk but saved by the handmaids who, in a powerful moment of solidarity, refused to partake in her execution. From the trailer it looks like her future in season two lies in the colonies. Viewers will therefore also get their first glimpse of the world outside of Gilead. Moira’s story, too, was expanded on in the first season and, whereas in the novel we have no idea what becomes of her after she sees Offred in Jezebel’s, we got to see her escape and reunite with Luke (who also got his own storyline). We will also see Nick trying his hardest to protect June and their unborn baby whilst in Canada Luke persists in his search for his wife and daughter. This will surely lead to some sort of domestic conflict. Finally, we wonder: what is June burning at the end of the trailer and what does it represent? The past? The future she once thought she might have? The caution she exercised in the first season? What is for sure is that her troubles are far from over; when she stepped into that black van she was stepping neither into the ‘darkness’ nor the ‘light’. The future is never as simple as that. The trailer closes with her declaring: ‘My name is June Osborne. I am free.’ But is she? The Haidmaid’s Tale is airing now on Channel 4. Image courtesy of Hulu

EDITORIAL

Listings Theatre:

May 15th-19th – Joseph & the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat at The Point, Eastleigh May 19th – The Carpenters: We’ve Only Just Begun at Concorde Club, Eastleigh May 16th-June 9th – War Horse at Mayflower Theatre May 25th-26th – Tipping Point at NST City May 26th – Ink at The Joiners May 28th-30th – Deeds Not Words at The Bargate, Southampton June 5th-6th – A Streetcar Named Desire at NST City June 20th-23rd – Oh What A Lovely War at NST Campus

Live Music:

May 17th – The Undercover Hippy at The Joiners May 26th – 5ive and S Club 7 at Engine Rooms May 26th-27th – Common People 2018, Southampton June 1st – Twin Atlantic at Engine Rooms June 2nd – Sean McGowan at The Joiners June 9th – Benjamin Folke Thomas at Swiss Cottage, Winchester June 15th – Craig Charles Funk & Soul Club at Engine Rooms June 16th – Winchestival, Winchester June 16th – Coast at the Talking Heads

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