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Since Urban Edge Mag’s first days of inception, we never dreamt that we could come this far with a free collaborative magazine. The ever popular debate of web versus print made us squirm in our cozy seats, and everyone thought they had it figured out. But looking back now, I see we have been nurturing a baby – a nine month infant born from collective and collaborative efforts. It is not just our baby, it is yours too. Your support and keenness to collaborate has made Urban Edge Mag successful. And as every baby yearns to grow, so does this colourful and creative entity. We are still an infant in the industry, but we are reaching for the stars. Like all babies, we need help to grow, and have taken on a very exciting partner within the Music and Beverage Industries - Yes! Lifestyle (www.drinkyes.com). Of course growth comes only with change, so there will be some slight changes - most importantly our name, but don’t be mistaken, this is not the end of our Urban Edge brand! Urban Edge Mag will become Yes! Lifestlye Mag from our launch issue on 13 July 2012 - lucky Friday the 13th we like to call it! This partnership will also make national distribution possible, which means we’re looking forward to seeing Yes! Lifestyle Mag accross South Africa in Tertiary Educational Institues and other high traffic areas such as Pick ‘n Pays. Most importantly, we will always be FREE! But now we can also focus on bringing you mindblowing competitions, the best reads, amazing event coverage and even more rocking content! Thanks for all your support these last nine issues, we’re really looking forward to blowing your socks off in the next half of this year!
Published by KayEye Publishing (pty) Ltd. Printed by Sun Media. MD: Nick Kruger, Editor: Danielle Illman. Contents Page images by Hanro Havenga, Melissa Kelly, Vetman Van Der Naam, Al Nicoll Photography
DISCLAIMER: No part of Urban Edge Mag may be reproduced or transmitted electronically without the written consent of KayEye Publishing (pty) Ltd. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily the views of KayEye Publishing (pty) Ltd, its management, editor, or advertisers. Images not credited are used in fair use. Images credited where used with a creative commons license for attribution.
EDGE CONTENTS
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s t n e t n Co WHATS BEYOND THIS PAGE 21
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25 31
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Features DISPELLING THE HEMP HAZE
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TRENDS HEATING UP THIS WINTER
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PASCAL AND PEARCE: LIFE’S FULL OF EXITS
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THE MAN CAVE
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REVIEW: DIE ANTWOORD 21 BLOWS STELLENBOSCH AWAY PHOTOGRAPHER PROFILE: 29 HANRO HAVENGA THE GREAT SHARK ISSUE
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Regulars
TRAVEL FOOD
4 5 6 8 12 13 16 18 20 26 30 31
CHARITY
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COLLABORATORS OPINION TREND REPORT NEWS/ INTEREST HEALTH/ BEAUTY FASHION EVENTS EVERSON’S CIDER GIG GUIDE REVIEWS MUSIC
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EDGE COLLABORATORS
ur o t e e M
dmond
Angelique Re
PIECES: Opinion: ‘Debating the Info Bill’ (pg5), Trends: ‘Rooftop Vegetable and Herb Gardens’ (pg7), Music: ‘The Great Apes’ (pg26), Art: ‘Photographer of the month’ (pg29) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER?: “I will be hibernating in Cape Town and can be found sipping cocktails or drinking red wine in front of a roaring fire, in and around Kalk Bay.” GET IN TOUCH: angelique.redmond.1986@ gmail.com
Dee Theart
PIECES: Reviews: ‘Die Antwoord Blows Stellenbosch Away’ (pg21), ‘Peachy Keen EP Launch’ (pg22), Music: ‘Peachy Keen EP Review’ (pg24), ‘Natasha Meister Album Review’ (pg24) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER?: “I’m really not a winter person and dread this season every year. I’ll be hibernating anywhere where there’s fluffy blankets, fireplaces and hot chocolate.” GET IN TOUCH: deetheart@gmail.com, @deetheart
m Kelly Thuyns
PIECES: Health: “Winterize your body” (pg12) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER?: “I don’t think I can hibernate. I’m the restless type, so I’ll be out trying new stuff. I also intend on playing hockey again.” GET IN TOUCH: kellythuynsma10@gmail.com, @kellythuynsma
Kimberleigh
Muller
PIECES: News/Interest: ‘Celebrating Winter around the World’ (pg8), ‘Jump of Death’ (pg8). WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER?: “My local watering hole. There’s nothing like a bit of Dutch courage to face the cold during wintertime!” GET IN TOUCH: flutterbybabybutterfly@gmail. com, kimbochops.blogspot.com, @kimbelina87
eden Nadine Van E
PIECES: Reviews: ‘VanFokKingTasties Album Launch’ (pg20), ‘A Night of Scoundrels’ (pg23), Music: VanFokKingTasties Album Review’ (pg23) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER?: “In Bohemia of course. That place is always warm!” GET IN TOUCH: @naztwi
rdice Seamus Alla
hon
Grace McMa
PIECES: Trend Report: ‘Trends Heating up this Winter’ (pg6) GET IN TOUCH: consumethis.co.za, @trendytitbits, LinkedIn: Grace M Mcmahon
der Vyver
PIECES: Reviews: ‘Warm up your winter at Daddy Long Legs’ (pg20) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER? Anywhere they serve yummy red wine, give you a blanky and offer some sort of heating device. Daddy Long Legs and Beleza are definitely at the top of my list. GET IN TOUCH: facebook.com/jeanine.jellybean
PIECES: Sports Opinion: ‘The Great Shark Issue’ (pg32) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING IN WINTER?: Ideally I’ll be hibernating in Betty’s Bay, alternating between ice cold winter surfs and the couch in front of the fire. Maybe with a OBS to help the warming process from the inside... GET IN TOUCH: seamusallardice@hotmail.com
rf
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OUR TEAM
Nick Kruger
MANAGING DIRECTOR WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER? “Having recently discovered coffee, there’s no better season than this to delve further into my new found obsession.” GET IN TOUCH: nick@urbanedgemag.com, (021) 821 9896
an Danielle IllmEDITOR
WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER? “Not much hibernating going on - I’ll be focusing on bringing you the best reads with our new venture.” GET IN TOUCH: dani@urbanedgemag.com, (021) 821 9896, @danzibaar
DO YOU WANT TO
COLLABORATE? Urban Edge Mag has had nine successful issues and is now expanding!! We’re going national and wanting YOU to be our eyes and ears on the streets of your town. Report back on trends, gig reviews and more! Send us a sample of your writing to info@urbanedgemag.com and your articles could be published in our first issue of Urban Edge Mag as Yes! Lifestyle Mag
PIECES: Comic Sketch: ‘Warm Winter?’ (pg33) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER? “When I’m not drawing pictures in squares I enjoy patrolling the streets fighting off zombie car guards in grey spadex tights with thermal underwear, can’t forget those!”
PIECES: Music: ‘Grassy Spark’ (pg26) WHERE WILL YOU BE HIBERNATING THIS WINTER? “I’ll be hiding in a cup of soup this holiday!” GET IN TOUCH: yvetteyadams1@gmail.com, @yvette_adams
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T C A T N CO US
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n o i n i p My O DISPELLING words Marce Du Toit
“Hemp” is simply the name given to certain strains of the cannabis genus of plant that does NOT contain the psychoactive cannabinoid delta-9-tetrahyrdocannibol (THC) which is responsible for getting you stoned; on the contrary, these “industrial” strains contain high amounts of Cannabidiol (CBD), another cannibinoid that has actually been shown to block the effects of THC on the nervous system. So why the big fuss, or why should we fuss over a plant that’s only going to give you a headache if you smoke it? Considered by some as the answer to the rapidly declining state of our planet, hemp is the world’s most sustainable crop with every part of the plant being used; the outer stalk for textile fibres, the inner stalk for building materials and cellulose, the seed kernel for nutritional oils, the seed husk for biodegradable plastics and the leaves for retilling and fertilizing the soil after harvest. Other than cigarette rolling paper, hemp has another 49999 recorded uses. These include nutritional foods made from hempseed (an excellent source of Essential Fatty Acids and Protein), paper that is stronger and can be recycled more times than wood-
n o i n i p My O
DEBATING THE INFO BILL words Angelique Redmond image dreamwhile
With the proposed e-toll system having been halted by the Pretoria High Court, it seems the people of SA have made their voices heard and refused to go quietly. The next issue up for debate may very well decide South Africa’s future, the Protection of Information Bill. The behemoth policy which will see a country that fought and won its freedom slip back into the ‘partially free’ category. There has since been the proposed addition of a clause into the draft act
EDGE OPINION
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THE HEMP HAZE based products, textile fabrics that are more durable than cotton and help to better regulate body temperature because of open fibres found in hemp as opposed to closed fibres in cotton, insulation and building materials (there’s a hemp house in Noordhoek), plastic and composite materials and so much more! What’s more, hemp can be grown without the need for pesticides, has a high rate of photosynthesis (more oxygen for us) and is one of the fastest growing biomasses known to man.
“Not only would it provide economic relief in the form of job creation, lower-cost government subsidized housing, a source of sustainable income, nourishment and clothes for those less fortunate but also consider the environmental impact.”
The problem in South Africa is two-fold; there’s a general lack of hemp awareness and an emotion-over-reason fuelled “racist” attitude towards this wonder crop. Currently the South African government does not distinguish between THC and non-THC containing cannabis, making it illegal to farm; therefore existing industries import all their raw materials, a bit of a backwards way of thinking. So why should South Africa join countries like Australia, Portugal, New Zealand etc in what is already a multi-billion dollar industry? Not only would it provide economic relief in the form of job creation, lower-cost government subsidized housing, a source of sustainable income, nourishment and clothes for those less fortunate but also consider the environmental impact as we become less dependent on forest-based products meaning fewer trees are cut down and a greener future for everyone!
through parliament. What type of reflection does this signify to the world? Has history taught our current leaders nothing? Freedom is the right of every person, and without certain levels of freedom civil war, corruption and dictatorship can arise. In every regime that has suffered at the hands of tyranny, the first civil right to go was the freedom of speech. If this constitutional right is abolished the general public won’t be able to say anything as we see our other freedoms follow suit. Once you allow the government to gag the media, you allow their crimes to go unheard and “Once you allow the unpunished, as well as doing your fellow government to gag the media, freedom fighters a monumental disservice. you allow their crimes to go People like Steve Biko and Nelson Mandela unheard and unpunished, sacrificed their freedom and dedicated their lives to ensure the clear and transparent as well as doing your democracy we have today. We are slowly fellow freedom fighters a witnessing their once celebrated ideals drain monumental disservice.” from the sole of this country. If government wants to silence the freedom of speech then speak louder, shout and say ‘no’. The Another disturbing fact is the cost of alternative suggests a future where people advertising the bill, which has fallen to will not be able to hear our voices. Fear will the Ministry for State Security. And the give way to truth and justice, and we will amount: R2.686 million. As a law abiding tax payer whose income is from journalism, become another puppet state too afraid to say or do what is morally required of us. I am ashamed that this bill has made it
to protect those who expose ‘classified information’ to uncover corruption since its initial inception. But even with this addition the protection this clause adds is under existing whistleblower protection laws, and applies only to the offence in clause 43 which relates to the offence of disclosure, but not to clause 44 which still makes it a crime to merely posses classified information, or clauses 36, 38 or 49 which still carry the sentence of 5yrs-25yrs, and contain no public interest defense.
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EDGE TREND REPORT
MZANSI
TRENDS HEATING UP THIS WINTER words Grace McMahon
Our Local Hip-Hop
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Keeping’ it fresh by nurturing the home grown love... Cruising round town on a weekend nowadays, it’s a site to behold. The streets are alive with homemade bunting, people spilling out into the lazy streets and tempting smells that infuse the fresh Sunday air. The rise of city markets seems to be keeping locals nourished and delighted, every weekend. From the City Hall on Grand Parade to the Old Biscuit Mill, which was first to set-up shop in the now trend-savvy lower Woodstock, to the latest homegrown treat the CBD local produce market in Gardens. From its rustic charm of hay-bale seats, to an array of locally grown veg, home sprung clothing, designer chocolate, gorgeous dried fruit and blissful biltong. There’s something to keep any and every palate as cheerful as can be. Plus, sharing the local love is a good step towards sustainable unity throughout all of our fair country.
Local acts and fellow native DJ’s of late have begun infusing their beats with more traditional sounds, bringing our SA heritage into the 21st century, with the public devouring their musical fare, one beat at a time. And music isn’t the only branch of the culture making a statement of late, Bboys across the country are gaining international acclaim, resulting in top brass like Red Bull initiating sub-cultural creative platforms to showcase and develop our home-breaking style makers. The annual Red BC1 championships are on the 7th of July and if the hard-thumping qualifiers which images Kirstin Geldenhuys at Blaauwklippen Market in Stellenbosch. took place last month at Assembly is anything to go by, its going to be one not to miss. The fresh DJ Switch laid down a funky blend of old-school beats, that inspired the host of Bboys battling to keep the moves flowing. With great competitors like Bboy Evolution, the panel of renowned industry judges and Redbull fuelling the event, it’s was a street battle of epic proportions that saw our homegrown talent showcase its true awesome worth. As a prelude to the finals is now an event the whole city’s waiting to see, and also the world will be watching how we do in reclaiming international acclaim for the local industry, at the World Finals later this year.
Trend Splurt Alert The renowned NYC, Tribecca film festival, is said to be headed to our shores in 2013. And it’s about fynbos blooming time. At last our immensely talented local film industry is being more closely regarded as a world leader. Just in time as an appetiser to the 2014 Design Capital, Tribecca would be a huge boost to our economy and industry development, as it would be hosted for 5 years in ours truly. With major films being shot on a monthly basis, from the latest Bond film to Mad Max that is currently in production, being shot in Namibia. Tribecca’s possible arrival once again shines light on Africa’s major role and contribution as a rival to be reckoned with, within the world of Arts and story telling.
Art depicts life, or so they used to say... Its true, you hear it everyday, our generation was raised on after school TV shows and video games. So it comes of little surprise that visual communication is making headway as the next generations form of communication. Infographics, data visualizations and motion graphics are all forms of the next lead-generations communication consumption. And, naturally, there’s a next-level local making relevant data as visually appealing as Carmen Electra’s buttocks, the unique Afrographique. What distinguishes Afrographique is the truly local palette of design inspiration evident in each work, which also offers-up relevant and topical info. His works will keep you coming back time and time again, for information that sees SA creativity surpassing to new limits, through making information art. 06
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LATEST TREND
ROOFTOP VEGETABLE AND HERB GARDENS
words Angelique Redmond images Danielle Illman at The Upper Eastside Hotel Rooftop Organic Herb Garden Launch City rooftops are generally unused empty spaces, but a new trend has sprung up and is seeing more and more rooftops converted into gardens. After all, if you were going to put a garden anywhere why not your roof? There is plenty of sun, natural water systems provided with rain and the space becomes a sustainable green way to grow your own veggies and herbs. With London and New York embracing the trend, it would seem rooftop gardening has come ashore to Cape Town, and our very own hotel and restaurant in Woodstock, The Upper Eastside Hotel.
Where to start?!
The first thing to check is how the local ordinances, rental agency or home owner regards rooftop gardens, they may require you to gain special permission or require special treatment and it is better to find out before spending your time and money. Once you have the green light its time to get your hands dirty, try to use as little weight as possible, use lightweight potting soil, plastic, fiberglass or foam, and use Styrofoam peanuts for drainage rather than rocks. You will need to incorporate windbreaks into your rooftop garden design, think along the lines of trellises or some other latticed windbreak, these work better as they disrupt the wind instead of trying to stop it completely. If you attempt to stop the wind completely you may find your windbreak airborne.
Tips!
What to grow?!
Once you have gotten your windbreaks and tools for your garden the next step is to decide what you will grow. As we are in winter there are certain plants that will grow better in the winter conditions and these are: Broccoli, Cauliflower, Endive, Kale, Spinach, Garlic, Onions, Parsley, Greek Basil, Lemon Thyme, Rosemary, Oregano, Coriander, Thyme, Chillies, Bell Peppers.
5 THINGS YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
COMIC BOOK DAY words and images Nadine Arendse
The annual International Comic Book Day happens the first Saturday of every May. Cape Town’s queuing ETA for fanboys and fangirls is 7am for Free Comic Book Day held at Readers Den, energising into the Stadium on Main centre. This growing attraction allows you to get your costume play game on, mega-power up and transform into a raging green monster, maybe an Avenger genius strapped in ‘prop’ iron, perhaps a Game of Thrones rogue warrior, or a distractingly hot chick displaying her talents in Lycra Spandex.
Freebies, Fun, and Fame is the agenda
Readers Den offers limited goody bags, beverages on urn, pretzels to sustain the queue and most importantly, free comics - with Marvel’s Number 1 issue of Avengers, Archie comics, Mega Man and so forth... Find your collectible figurine, sought-after comic and retail entertainment fix amongst the cosplay crowd.
“With great power comes great responsibility.” Cosplay is a trend on the increase where superheroes slash villains meet. It is taken very seriously with individuals posing in character, accompanying prop slash weapon in hand, addressed only by their character name and in character at all times!
The right herbs and vegetables for the right growing conditions will ensure your plants thrive. Also it is best to get transplants when you first start out, and start with simple easy to grow plants while you gain confidence. A good local nursery will point you in the right direction. But most of all have fun, your rooftop garden is your own veggie patch and is helping the environment at the same time.
Cape Town Top Cosplay Winners
Winners are chosen by Nizar Abrahams, the Readers Den co-owner for twenty years, who has been hosting the event for half of his career and ultimately found this a mission in itself. Top three cosplay participants were V for Vendetta, Black Widow and in first place, Iron Man, who fashioned his garment out of cardboard. V for Vendetta I felt was too typical a-costume-hire look, and I am partial to the good-looking runner up, the infamous Loki, who many felt was more deserving due to his concerted garment efforts.
Top Tips
Shoes must blend with your outfit. Try wearing comfortable shoes because you’re a celeb for a few hours. Gals, suit up in sheer stockings to give that slicker finish. Never leave headquarters without seamless undergarments otherwise it can impact on your overall finish and remove the power from your dressing. Readers Den hosts an entertaining Free Comic Book Day and I’d encourage fashionistas and those who embrace fanboyism to participate. See my lastminute Sith outfit made overnight for Hylton Arendse, in honour of “May the Fourth” – something Star Wars’ fans will appreciate. Visit: www.readersden.co.za and the Readers Den Facebook Fan Page for more information. JUNE 2012
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W TO HOCELEBRATE WINTER
AROUND THE WORLD
words Kimberleigh Muller image drewleavy
Winter is synonymous with hot chocolate, blankets and hibernating. But every once in a while our wonderful world surprises us with some strange traditions. Here are some of the weirdest ways to usher in the season...
Night of the
Radishes
OAXACA, MEXICO
Essentially a Christmas holiday, this is a night for all artists looking to be inspired. Most of the world’s craziest winter celebrations happen around this time, because in places north of the equator, it’s coldest between December and February. In Oaxaca (pronounced wa-ha-ka) artisans gather to construct some of the most impressive figures of the nativity scene...out of radishes! Thousands travel to pay tribute to their favourite patron saints and stock up on Mexican baked sweets. Prizes are given for the best radish sculptures, and the evening is ended with a dazzling fireworks display.
e The Viking Fir , a A y ll e H p U Festival SHETLAND ISLANDS, UK
Shetland, originally part of Norway, has a rich Viking heritage. Because this heritage of raiding, pillaging, and wild partying became a bit of a problem, in 1870 locals decided to channel those high spirits in true Viking fashion. Enter Up Helly Aa. This 24 hour party begins with a series of Viking events during the day and culminates in a torchlight parade and the burning of a Viking long boat. The galley typically takes about four to five months to build, and over 5,000 turn up on the last Tuesday in January to watch this towering inferno. Participants don their best Viking costumes to celebrate and generally drink themselves into the ground!
Battle of the
Oranges
IVREA, ITALY
Thousands gather in the town of Ivrea each February to take part in a violent carnival that stretches over three days. Legend has it that the count of Ivrea was a nasty piece of work who slept with every maiden on her wedding night. One such lady wouldn’t hear of it and cut his head off. Chaos ensued between the townsfolk and count’s soldiers, and the carnival was born. Tonnes of oranges are shipped in for this glorified food fight, and participants are divided into nine teams who do considerable damage to each other. 08
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Night of the Radishes
F O P M U J ATH DE
There are few things more terrifying and exhilarating at the same time than extreme winter sports. From skiing to snowboarding and even ice racing, the list is endless and cold. Very cold. But if you’re an adrenalin junkie and aren’t afraid to brave temperatures below zero, why not try one of these crazy jumps this winter. words Kimberleigh Muller
POLAR BEAR PLUNGE
Some wear wetsuits, others, next to nothing. This doesn’t stop thousands across the globe from gathering at a body of icy water and diving in! This ‘sport’ will be the death of your nerves, but why not give it a try? You’ll feel more alive than you’ve ever been, guaranteed.
SPEED RIDING
This stomach-in-throat sport is actually a mash up of base jumping and skiing. It might be a bit difficult finding snow around Table Mountain, but if you’re a regular thrill seeker, this one is bound to excite you. The plunge is taken from an incredible height, skis ready, and as the jumper lands, he hurtles off at top speed through the snow. The jump has to be precise, though, or things could go horribly wrong...
BUNGEE JUMPING
Polar bear swim by janheuninck
Although in fairness, this sport is great for all weather, jumping face first from a dizzying height is so much more fun when you have a nice cold breeze to set the tone! Your guides will explain the process thoroughly, but nothing can prepare you for that sudden fall of freedom. Every bungee experience is different, and if you’re looking for some insane fun close to home, this is a must.
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LIFE’S FULL OF EXITS
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We live in some interesting times. The quality of art has become quantified in monetary terms, and now even our great words Scone Malone human ability to wonder and create is images Al Nicoll Photography/ Just Music subject to a system of very consequential Who of you can remember Flat Eric? What is adjudication… To make a living as an artist, it that made Mr. Oizo’s cheap-ass little yellow your work needs to be accepted by other hand puppet so goddamn memorable? Is it artisans, and there is an Industry that because he can puff a vienna like Churchill? governs who gets acknowledged; to a large Or is it because he can head-bang as stylishly degree, man’s hankering for money has as a black man would? The answer is neither. come to sculpt the landscape for both the We remember him because it was done artist and those interested in enjoying the properly. And the legacy is there to prove it. arts. Now how many of you knew that Flat Eric Just look at the South African music industry. exists thanks to Levi Strauss & Co.? Eric is There is no governing body, inclusive essentially a remake of Mr. Oizo’s Stéphane conference or authoritative forum where the character, made to promote a new line of various Industry participants can officiate. shirts or some shit. No-one cares about the There is no space where venue owners, shirts, but Flat Beat will be remembered for promoters, record labels, radio stations and eternity. Some serious money went into the artists can openly state their intentions and planning of that little guy, people took note, affairs. And so, to the detriment of all, what and the thoroughness bred permanence. ends up happening is that the Industry is often ‘mismanaged’, as such. Flat Eric The fact that artists need to sell art, in this case, requires the artist to have a space where they can openly discuss the Industry, somewhere where people show a formal PR face to what they do. Similarly, for the Industry to really establish itself and become recognised, long term planning and investments are key. The current status quo of some people being in it for a quick buck is destroying all the others’ good work.
“Just look at the South African music industry. There is no governing body, inclusive conference or authoritative forum where the various Industry participants can officiate.” But if you think this picture is grim, you’re missing the point. Opportunities, my friends, are everywhere. Yes there are big investors needed for it to work, but we have those available here in SA. Just think of Trinity or ZAR. The problem here folks, is just to manage it better… I recently met up with two guys who probably qualify as Cape Town’s most promising producer/DJ pair at the moment, Pascal & Pearce, to hear what they have to say about the Industry. I meet them in their stylish little Sea Point studio where they’re chopping away at some new tracks and new strains. Being super nice guys, we immediately get talking about their recent escapades and successes. The last two years saw them sign a number of record deals and their new single, ‘Disco Sun’, is set for release in Europe pretty soon. Yet, somehow, they’re still completely down to earth blokes, and keep talking about all the positive things in the Industry today. JUNE 2012
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Though, through the duo’s alluringly chilled demeanour, you can still see that glint of excitement and high hopes they have for the future of South Africans’ love of partying. And let me tell you, these two lads are all about Making it Reign. Well officially they said their whole game plan is one of “longevity and consistency”, “slow and steady”, but I’m pretty sure that falls under the Making it Reign umbrella. To give me an idea of what they hope to help create, they started telling tales about the most famous club in Ibiza, Pacha. Up there in the Med these people have got it down. They aim to please their guests, catering for the entire experience: from touching down at the airport, to beautiful promoter girls guiding your way, to bouncers remembering VIPs faces, to being well waited on, to the most mental DJs, to drinking tumblers of ice-cold Vodka, neat, on the dance floor at twenty past four in the morning. The industry surrounding Pacha’s goal is to make it an extraordinary occasion, resulting in an unforgettable experience. So people keep going to these parties. And everybody wins. “You get treated like a guest. That’s one thing we need to pick up on very very soon.” P&P emphasizes. I sit there wondering what such an Ibiza-style-hooked-up Cape Town would be like.
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“It’s a difficult thing to change, it’ll take time. But we got lots of good people in this country, you know, a lot of positive people who want to see this thing grow.” “That’s why we just gotta continue working hard and Making it Reign.” They concur. Another thing I gather from Dave and Pasci’s hilarious ranting away is that promoters seem to come and go fairly regularly. Some, like the Urban Wave parties, are sorely missed, and then a few others, not so much. “There are some promoters that really only seem to see numbers, even see us DJs “...through the duo’s as numbers. Pay x and hopefully y come through the door.” This is the entertainment alluringly chilled demeanour, industry. You should aim to create and you can still see that glint of please, not just cash in. excitement and high hopes Ironically, the problem is that it is potentially they have for the future such a lucrative business to be in. One would think that a situation involving lots of South Africans’ love of of people, great music and a fair supply of partying. And let me tell you, alcohol is a winning recipe. And it is. But these two lads are all about people need to be in it for the long haul, Making it Reign.” making lasting relationships and working to a common goal. From what they’re saying, it would seem that “Otherwise it just becomes a vicious circle.” On the topic of people making proper a few people in the South African Industry relationships and that, Just Music feature right now do not have the long term vision high on their list. Since the signing, the label needed to benefit the greater collective. has opened so many doors for them, and People may have the best intentions, but the guys really feel that Just Music only has there are those who tend to go about P&P’s “best interests at heart”. business the wrong way. This is a stalwart in the Industry. But I can’t One clever counter measure the guys keep help feeling it’s somewhat of a lone beacon. on suggesting is the outsourcing of certain I mean this is the label that brought us roles. The picture I’m getting from them is LARK... that a club should definitely hire an agency I ask about the roles of fans. They say it’s both to do the marketing and run the frontall about staying informed. Not only about of-house. Also, to ensure the quality of the what party’s when and where, but also experience, venues should not try to host too many parties and rather make sure each who the featured DJs actually are… It’s so easy with the internet today to keep event is of the standards that would ensure up with these things, and SA has recently another full house next week… Just look at brought over some really big acts, only to be those H2O things – okes hit the gym days in disappointed with the poor turnouts. advance.
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Piracy comes up in conversation, and again the two lads prove their level-headedness. “As long as there are those people who buy our music... We’re not greedy – it’s great exposure, you know?”
“The Industry needs to grow, both in terms of becoming more established, and also in terms of becoming better managed. Size and maturity.” As for what fellow DJs can do, the guys should just “keep making good music. We’re very happy and very lucky with the people here in SA; there are very motivated and inspirational artists around us.” Conversation drifts into the dingy world of race politics. I wince, but keep listening. The guys are talking about “different markets” and how to “integrate” them, when they make a very interesting point: what better way for people to come together than through mutual pleasure? We all appreciate good art, so what this country really needs is positive support for those here to Make it Reign. The Industry needs to grow, both in terms of becoming more established, and also in terms of becoming better managed. Size and maturity. I pack up my things and look at these two talented lads, who surely seem to have their hearts in the right place. What does the future hold for these two humans? Pacha? Space? Podcasts? There is a lot to be done if we want the Industry to flourish for us here in SA. I say my tally ho’s and leave, thankful that some of this great responsibility has fallen on such blessed shoulders.
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EDGE FOCUS
DIGITAL DARING & DAFTNESS – CREATIVE LARGE FORMAT PRINTING
AT THE EDGE OF SANITY Want to rev up your retina’s? Stop in at the ArtLab in the Old Biscuit Mill in Cape Town and check out what these well armed digital crazies can do. The ArtLab are specialist large format digital printers with a serious difference ... they are “CREATIVE” digital printers. And they use the very latest technology to turn your daftest digital visions and dreams to reality. Large Format Digital printers are dime a dozen in Cape town and the rest of SA. What makes the ArtLab different is that they have chosen and refined a very special
niche in the industry - concentrating on décor, fine art and photo applications. They use cutting edge technology and creative tech heads to produce the most amazing graphics in the history of electricity. The ArtLab founder Craig Whyte pretty much pioneered commercial digital printing way back in 1983 ... and then hi-res large format printing right here in Cape Town in 1992. The ArtLab was started three years ago using all this experience and passion with the aim of creating a specialist facility at the very cutting edge of sanity. The ArtLab’s latest cheeky move has been to kick off a true direct to fabric printing process that is the real deal! A commercial reactive process that you can use to print your own designs and creative ideas onto a wide range of cotton based fabrics, linen hemp and even silk. The benefits of the digital process is that there is no minimum run required. Even one meter is possible and the colours and detail are awesome! Full photographic quality with colour accurate output and strong vibrant colours that are completely colourfast and washable - exciting stuff for the design and fashion
industry. To have been invited onto TV twice in the last two months gives an indication of the stir-up this new service is causing. The ArtLab is now even producing custom silk prints for couture - the very first of their kind - opening up a whole new range of opportunities on and off the catwalk. The ArtLab intends to drag the local textile industry kicking and screaming into the digital age and help resurrect some of the local industry, bringing it home to Cape Town where it belongs!
JOB OPPORTUNITY! ArtLab is looking for a suitably talented and daft person to join their hi-res scanning, fine art printing and colour retouching dept. If you think you fit the bill (and you better know what you are doing - see above) please send your CV to contact@artlab. co.za. You might just be so wrong you would be right!
EDGE HEALTH AWARENESS
E’ ‘WINTERIZYOUR words Kelly Thuynsma
@Urban_Edge_Mag
BODY
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p
Get enough slee
Getting 7-9 hours of sleep can’t be stressed enough. With a busy schedule, we all know that sleep sometimes doesn’t seem to be on the top of the priority list, but it needs to be. Our bodies are more prone to catching illnesses when our system is down. Feeling groggy in the morning, due to a lack of sleep, is also not something anyone enjoys.
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TIPS FROM THE ECO DIVA
A global citizen and entrepreneur, having Staying fit and healthy in winter is always worked and lived in such a drab as winter calls for snuggling up in England, South Africa bed with movies, hot chocolate and all things and the USA, Nicole yummy (and unhealthy!). It is also the time of Sherwin has become a year when we are most prone to falling ill. Try trailblazer in the areas these 10 tips for beating ‘the winter blues’ and Social y ta S of environmentalism, preparing for those hot, summery days. Believe it or not, many people become wellness and social responsibility inspiring depressed in winter months (also known Keep hydrated people to make more conscious choices The cold, winter days dries out your skin and as seasonal affective disorder); social for a healthier, more sustainable life. mucus membranes around the nose, throat and interaction being one of the reasons. Through her online tv show celebritysoul. lung area, which makes you prone to airborne Don’t allow for winter to ruin your social com, Nicole interviews the ‘soul’ behind illness. By keeping hydrated, you are decreasing life – arrange a sleep over, a movie night the stars to find out how they are making your chances of attracting illnesses. or this might be the perfect excuse to a difference in the world and inspiring try out a new recipe by hosting a dinner others through their charity work and Take a vitamin Take a vitamin supplement. Our bodies require party. environmental activism. Nicole is also the extra nutrients during the cold, winter months, Opt for soup editor of Simply Green Magazine, South so stock up on vitamins especially fish oils We all know how nutritious soup is, but Africa’s premier green lifestyle magazine (omega 3, 6 & 9), vitamin C &D. it can also help you stay in shape. If you and is also currently working on her first are trying to lose or maintain your weight, book: How to be an Eco Diva - a cool Eat in colour Eat plenty of colourful veggies as each colour adding soup to your regular menu could guide to living a more sustainable life plays a specific role in building up our immune be an amazing weight loss tool. without losing a luxury lifestyle. Nicole has system and fighting off certain disease. Hygiene d oo G worked with some of the biggest names ries Our parents couldn’t tell us enough Burn winter calo in Hollywood and In Los Angeles in 2009, If it’s too cold to head off to gym, get a home how important it is to wash our hands founded The Green Lounge Experience, a work-out DVD and burn those extra calories or regularly, well, they were right once again. carbon-neutral Buddha Bar style eco ultra put on some good music and dance away. Practicing good hygiene protects us from lounge expo and conference. Positioned d in m ur yo unwanted germs and might just save you as the most exclusive, trend-setting Relax Winter seems to be a very stressful time, take from a nasty, winter bug. global green event, convening industry time out of your busy schedule to put your Stay warm leaders, government officials, celebrities, mind at ease by doing yoga. I’ve tried this and I don’t think we need an explanation or international media, consumers and social it’s amazing how stimulating yoga can be. an excuse for this one! entrepreneurs, Nicole is bringing the world to Cape Town in 2013 to identify clean technology, energy access and sustainable lifestyle opportunities for the African continent.
THE ECO DIVA
WINTER ENERGY SAVINGS TIPS
Winter is fast approaching and it’s time to look at the pros and cons of keeping warm this winter and how to save on your electricity bills and conserve water. It is a known fact that our bills almost double in winter because we are using so many more appliances to keep warm. We make warm nourishing foods; use tumble dryers much mores, take luxuriating hot showers, soak in hot baths and use our electric heaters and electric blankets. In an average household in South Africa, water heating is the greatest expense when it comes to energy costs. Obviously, the more hot water you use, the more electricity you use and the greater your monthly bill will be. By installing water saving showerheads and tap connections, you can significantly reduce the amount of hot water you use each month and therefore reduce your electricity bill. You will also be doing your part for the environment by decreasing the amount of water you use on a daily basis, something that is of utmost importance in South Africa where water shortage is a very real issue. 12
URBAN EDGE MAG
JUNE 2012
General Energy Saving Tips
Lights
1.Don’t leave the water running when you brush your teeth/ wash hands 2.Use solar powered lamps or soy candles as much as possible 3.Unplug all electrical appliances when not in use 4.Take 3 minute showers instead of baths 5.Use gas heaters or fireplace to warm up your home
1.Buy AAA electric appliances – they save energy and are more efficient 2.Use ‘energy saving’ option on all electrical appliances 3.Boil only the amount of water you need in the kettle, don’t fill it up 4.Partly dry your clothes on Geysers a clothes line before using 1.Turn off Geyser when you the tumble dryer go to bed and back on 2 hours before you shower in the morning 2.Get a timer installed to @ecogreenlounge turn Geyser on and off greenloungeexperience.com automatically Get the latest Simply Green 3.Replace existing Geyser Magazine on shelves or app with Solar Water Geyser for ipad and iphone (speak to your insurance company)
Showers/Baths 1.Choose to shower rather than bath – this saves an enormous amount of electricity & water 2.Install Water Saving Shower Heads and faucets R200R400pm Saving (30%) 3.Use biodegradable shower gels / soap / shampoos – much better for you & the environment
Electrical Appliances
1.Replace old light bulbs with energy saving light bulbs 2.Switch off lights when you aren’t using them 3.Buy solar powered lanterns to create light and ambience in your home or use soy candles to light your rooms
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r e t n i W
TRENDS
EDGE FASHION
@Urban_Edge_Mag
Pattern/Texture Blocking This is the new colour blocking leather and wool combined with fur and silk patchwork lead to interesting graphic designs and body styles. High quality fabrics like rough silk, and inventive ways of attaching unexpectedly detached parts again are used to create new looks and highlight the best parts of your body.
N-value butterfly sleeve blouse blue, polyvor.co.za, R309
As winter approaches, many of us have already ascended into a hibernating state - but that doesn’t mean that fashionable choices have to go out the window. Here’s three winter trends you should be following... Madame Range Vintage Bow Belt dress, polyvor.co.za, R315
H&M top, polyvor.co.za R265 Tribal Print Jersey, The Lot, R450
Accessories
Adding accessories to an outfit is a great way to spruce up a bland outfit this winter. We’re looking at hats, gloves (the new essential), fur wraps, structured frame bags and leggings.
RE: Sherpa lined leather look sleeveless jacket, Woolworths, R450
Boots
Tall Riding Boots and ankle boots are in for this season! Stay away from fur on the top though we’re looking at clean browns and blacks.
Tortoise Shell Sunglasses Woolworths R79.95 awear stitch saddle bag, polyvor.com, R330
Fadora Hat Studio W, Woolworths R180
Fred Tsuya Neon Checked Scarf, zando.co.za R99 Misselfridge snake print leggings, polyvor.co.za R150
Footwork Knee-high boots black, zando.co.za R429
Leather Gloves, Woolworths R160
Misselfridge Border Print Scarf, polyvor.com, R210 Ax Paris Aztec Print Leggings, polyvor.co.za R160
Bronx Knee-high boots brown, zando.co.za R529
Firenze suede leather black, zando.co.za R199
Ruched laceup boot-shoe, Woolworths, R399
Heeled worker boots with cuff, shoe city, R249.95
JUNE 2012
URBAN EDGE MAG
13
EDGE MAN CAVE
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THE MAN CAVE SHOW HER YOUR COOKING SKILLS
Dames love to be taken out on the town, and especially love to have a lad splash some cash in a fancy restaurant. However, very few will deny that they love to see a man cook for them. Providing you have a stove and a workable kitchen, plan a night to impress your bird with some Gordon Ramsey techniques. Our suggestion is a few home cooked fillet stakes, potatoes, mushroom sauce, veggies and a palatable bottle of red wine. Sure, steaks are available at your local supermarket, but for the ideal cut visit Frankie Fenner Meat Merchants, 8 Kloof Street. You can’t have her eating rubber or your ass is on the line.
Marshall, the music amplifier company, recently released a bar fridge which resembles a stage speaker. The cooler settings for the fridge are adjusted by the same knobs that would be used to adjust the sound setting. This is a must for anyone who has a bar in their place of residence. We can picture this being a customary appliance in your average rock bands dop den.
SARAH STEELE
14
URBAN EDGE MAG
JUNE 2012
We found that Urban Edge Mag was getting a tad feminine lately - not that it’s the worst thing - but just to add something for the oakes, here’s a Man Cave setion for ya! The topics will be stereotypically male, but that’s the point. So enjoy the schweetness!
COOL LITTLE NUMBER FROM MARSHALL
E I T T O H JUNE
Model: Sarah Steele (23). Photography: Gary Huddlestone at GMH Photography. Make-Up and Styling: Sara Clackett at Tickle Pink Styling.
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Although yet to start shooting, Robert De Niro recently confirmed on Letterman that he will be reuniting with director Martin Scorsese and actor Joe Pesci in a gangster biopic about Frank ‘The Irishman’ Sheeran. Also set to star is Al Pacino, who is best known for his gangster roles in Scarface and The Godfather. This would be his first time joining the aforementioned trio on a project. Few details have been revealed, but we can only image that missing this one could be one you’d regret when it hits theatres.
SCORSESE, DE NIRO AND PESCI REUNITE
EDGE EVENTS
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Y L U J UNE/
J
16
LISTINGS
MARKETS
THEATRE
PAN AFRICAN MARKET, Long Street, Every Friday CITY BOWL MARKET Hope Street, Every Saturday WELLNESS NATURAL AND ORGANIC MARKET Gardens, Every Saturday FRENCH MARKET Alliance Francaise, CBD, Every Friday NEIGHBOURGOODS MARKET Woodstock, Every Saturday BAY HARBOUR MARKET Hout Bay, 31 Harbour Road, Every Saturday, Sunday and Friday evenings BO-KAPP FOOD AND CRAFT MARKET Bo-Kaap Civic Centre, Whale Street, Every first Saturday of the month CAPE QUARTER VILLAGE MARKET The Square, Cape Quarter, Every Sunday 10am-3pm EARTH FAIR MARKET St. Georges Mall, CBD, Every Thursday, 11am-4pm BLUE BIRD GARAGE FOOD AND GOODS MARKET Muizenberg, Every Friday, 4pm-10pm CONSTANTIA WALDORF MARKET Constantia Waldorf School, Every Friday, 11:30am-3pm KIRSTENBOSCH CRAFT MARKET Kirstenbosch Stone Cottages, Last Sunday of Every Month, 9am-3pm WILLOWBRIDGE SLOW MARKET Willowbridge Lifestyle Centre, Every Saturday MILNERTON FLEA MARKET Marine Drive, Milnerton Saturdays, Sundays 7am STELLENBOSCH FRESH GOODS MARKET Oude Libertas, Saturdays 9am-2pm BLAAUWKLIPPEN MARKET R44, Sundays 9am-3pm COBBELWALK LIFESTYLE MARKET Sonstraal Heights, Durbanville Every first and last Saturday 9am-3pm WOODMILL LIFESTYLE MARKET Vredenburg Road, Stellenbosch Every Friday 5:30pm - 10pm
THE BROTHERS SIZE Flipside Studio, Baxter Theatre Present – 9 June R90 – R150 MOVES Artscape Theatre Present - 09 June R60 CINEMA SERENADE Golden Arrow Studio, Baxter Theatre 02-16 June R100-R120 FACE THE MUSIC Kalk Bay Theatre 06-23 June R95-R295 PANTS ON FIRE Kalk Bay Theatre 10 June R85 – R180 ADAPT OR FLY Main Theatre, Baxter Theatre 11-30 June R100-R140 GREEN MAN FLASHING Artscape Theatre 12-23 June R65 TOPSY TURVEY Theatre On The Bay 13 – 30 June R80 – R275 YEOMAN OF THE GUARD Artscape Theatre 16 June – 01 July R130/R150/R195 THE BIG TIME PROJECT Artscape Theatre 16 June R70 A TEACHER IN THE BUSHVELD Golden Arrow Studio, Baxter Theatre 18 June – 3 July R100 – R120 MAC-DON’T-SAY-BETH Kalk Bay Theatre 27-30 June R85 – R135 DEFENDING THE CAVEMAN Theatre On The Bay 04 July – 04 August R160 – R285
URBAN EDGE MAG
JUNE 2012
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COMEDY JOU MA SE COMEDY CLUB The River Club, Observatory, Thursdays, R70pp/R35pp students COMEDY ON LONG Zula Bar, Long Street, Mondays, R50pp/ R40pp members, R30pp students FUNNY BONES COMEDY CLUB Purple Turtle, Long Street, Tuesdays (9pm), R40pp COMEDY NIGHT The Armchair Theatre, Observatory, Sundays RUSTUM AND FRIENDS Stand-up comedy Pig and Swizzle (Rondebosch Main Road) First and last Monday of the month 9pm, R20 Blizzard (28 Wellington Rd, Durbanville) First Tuesday of the month 7.30pm - R120 incl. a two course meal Fuzion Cafe (8 Gorlay Rd, Ottery) First and last Wednesday of the month 9pm start - R40 Mercury Live (43 De Villiers Rd, Zonnebloem) Last Wednesday of the month 9pm start - R30 cover OPEN MIC COMEDY NIGHT Ragazzie Lounge (33 Long St) Follow @RAFComedy or like Rustum & Friends - Stand Up Comedy on FB JEFF DUNHAM TOUR Grandwest Grand Arena, Grandwest Casino 5-6 June 8pm, R250 - R500 VODACOM FUNNY FESTIVAL Concert Hall, Baxter Theatre, Rondebosch 11 June - 7 July R140 - R300
OTHER ART-A-FARE 70-72 Bree Street, Beautifull Life Building, Cape Town 2, 16, 30 June 14, 28 July 10 - 5pm IMPERIAL RUSSIAN BALLET Baxter Theatre 4-8 July R130 - R250
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THE 14TH ANNUAL ENCOUNTERS DOCUMENTARY FILM FESTIVAL Nu Metro V&A, The Fugard Theatre, Cape Town 7-24 June R40 FIVE FLIES WINTER MURDER MYSTERY Five Flies Restaurant, 14-16 Keerom Street, CBD 29 June, R300 RSVP before 15 June ROBERTSON VALLEY’S WACKY WINE FESTIVAL Robertson Wine Valley 7-10 June R90 SUNDAY SHOOTOUT: GREENPOINT BIKE RACE Greenpoint 10 June, R5p/p, 3pm CAPE TOWN BOOK FAIR CTICC, Foreshore 15-17 June R30 - R50 STORMERS VS LIONS Newlands, Cape Town 30 June, 5pm, tickets available at computicket HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE AND ECO FAIR EXPO/ EXHIBITION Gardens Commercial High School 01 July, R10p/p, 10am-4pm CRYSTAL NEXUS CHANGE Festival Spitzkoppe Dessert, Namibia 04-08 July, R300 DISNEY ON ICE, SA CTICC, Foreshore 06-10 July, R150 - R300, Various times
hese t r o f h c t Wa ming events upco
FRANSCHOEK BASTILLE FESTIVAL 14-15 July 2012 Franschoek
CAPE TOWN INTL. FASHION WEEK 13-16 July 2012 Cape Town
OPPIKOPPI FESTIVAL Sweet Thing 9-11 August 2012 Northam, Limpopo R700/R750
CAPE TOWN INTL NANDO’S COMEDY FESTIVAL
03-09 September 2012 Artscape Theatre, Foreshore, Cape Town
08 JUNE
AURIOL HAYES THE MELTING POT, MUIZENBERG
DISCOTHEQUE THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
SIXGUN GOSPEL EP LAUNCH + DAVE KNOWLES OBVIOUZLY ARMCHAIR BACKPACKERS AND PUB
BENGUELA + GARY THOMAS + SANNIE FOX LIVE THE KIMBERLY HOTEL, CBD
IT’S ALWAYS BETTER LIVE - THE DANCE OFF FEAT. THE PLASTICS MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
ROXETTE LIVE IN CAPE TOWN GRANDWEST ARENA
THE SURE THING THE DRAGON ROOM, CBD
THAT MAGIC SHOW FEAT. GRASSY SPARK ZULA BAR, LONG STREET
MAKE A CHOICE TOUR 2012 FEAT. THE POVERTY OF IDEALS + TRUTH AND ITS BURDEN + WITH DAWN R.O.A.R., OBZ
FRI
10 JUNE
11 JUNE
12 JUNE
ACCOUSTIC TUESDAYS ARMCHAIR THEATRE
STUDENT NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB
TUES
SENTIMENTAL MONDAYS ASOKA, GARDENS
MANIC MONDAYS + SIXGUN SESSIONS MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
2 FOR 1 NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
AKOUSTIK SESSIONS PURPLE TURTLE, LONG STR
MON
SUNDAY JAZZ TABLE BAY HOTEL
COLD TURKEY AMADODA BRAAI, WOODSTOCK
SUN
16 JUNE
JONNY BUD + PASCAL (THE PLASTICS) + DONNY TRUTTER (TALESWAPPER) OBVIOUSLY ARMCHAIR BACKPACKER AND PUB
LOOPED SATURDAYS THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB, CBD
ESCAPE - 6TH SENSE AND NEXUS MEDIA - BIOGENESIS SIDESHOW (the old Fez), CBD
LAURIKA RAUCH DORPSTRAAT TEATER, STEL
SAT
ETHAN SMITH TRIO FEAT. BRYDON BOLTON & CLAUDE COZENS THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
THE SURE THING THE DRAGON ROOM, CBD
FLYING NEEDLE PROJECT 2012 BENEFIT GIG: TOMBSTONE PETE + SIXGUN GOSPEL + NOMADIC ORCHESTRA MERCURY, ZONNEBLOEM
GOODHOPE FM AND TRINITY PRESENT: KINKY AFRO TRINITY, GREENPOINT
21 JUNE
22 JUNE
THE SURE THING DRAGON ROOM, CBD
RIVERTONES OVIOUZLY ARMCHAIR BACKPACKERS AND PUB
FRI
IT CAME FROM THE JUNGLE FEAT NISKERONE AND FRIENDS FICTION BAR, LONG STR
TECHNO OVER MATTER THE MELTING POT
JUG NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
THE BLUESTOWN SESSIONS MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
THURS
DUBSTEP, D&B, RAP GANDALF’S, OBZ
LIVE BAND KAREOKE MOJO, OBZ
OPEN MIC NIGHT THE MELTING POT, MUIZENBURG
STUDENT NIGHT THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB
24 JUNE 25 JUNE
26 JUNE
27 JUNE SEE YOU NEXT WENESDAY THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
GRASS ROOTS ZULA BAR, LONG STR
WED
JAZZ NIGHTS TUESDAYS TRINITY, GREENPOINT
ACCOUSTIC TUESDAYS ARMCHAIR THEATRE, OBZ
STUDENT NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
F#CK THE RECESSION GANDALF’S, OBZ
TUES
SENTIMENTAL MONDAYS ASOKA, GARDENS
2 FOR 1 NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
MON
SUNDAY JAZZ TABLE BAY HOTEL
SUN
30 JUNE
SUN
01 JULY
GOODNIGHT WEMBLY LAUNCH PARTY MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
A DANCERS BODY IS HER TEMPLE BELLYDANCING THE SUGAR HUT, ZONNEBLOEM
LIVE MUSIC @ HQ HQ RESTAURANT, CBD
LOOPED STAURDAYS THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB, CBD
BOOTLEGGERS BRINGS YOU ‘HOUSE BLUES’ THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
JOSH ROXTON & GAVIN COETZEE OBVIOUSLY ARMCHAIR BACKPACKERS AND PUB
SAT
CHARLES LOUW COLLECTIVE, 6 PIECE DYNAMIC ORIGINAL JAZZ THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
LOUISE CARVER DORPSTRAAT TEATER, STEL.
TOMBSTONE PETE OBVIOUZLY ARMCHAIR, OBZ
09 JUNE
13 JUNE
VERY APE + ANTON SYNDROME + DARKSTEEL THE RABBIT HOLE, DURBANVILLE
SUPER SATURDAYS FEAT. LYLE MASTERS (JHB) THE LOCAL, BLOUBERG
SIXGUN GOSPEL ALMA CAFE, ROSEBANK
7TH SON + GRASSY SPARK THE BRASS BELL, KALK BAY
ERROL DYERS THE MAHOGANY ROOM, CBD
15 JUNE
TAPE HISS & SPARKLE & MESMER OBVIOUZLY ARMCHAIR BACKPACKERS AND PUB, OBZ
FRI
TECHNO OVER MATTER THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
IT CAME FROM THE JUNGLE FEAT NISKERONE AND FRIENDS FICTION
STUDENT NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
SLUMBER PARTY AND LINGERIE RUNWAY SHOW TIGER TIGER, CLAREMONT
IN THE DEEP END THE JOLLY ROGER, PLUMSTEAD
20 JUNE
THE RED UNDERGROUND LIVE OBZ CAFE, OBZ
SEE YOU NEXT WEDNESDAY THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
GRASS ROOTS ZULA BAR, LONG STR
EQUINOX WEDNESDAYS FICTION BAR, LONG STREET
WED
F#CK THE RECISSION GANDALF’S, OBZ
19 JUNE
ACCOUSTIC TUESDAYS ARMCHAIR THEATRE, OBZ
TUES
JUG NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
THE RED UNDERGROUND LIVE BARLEYCORN MUSIC CLUB
SENTIMENTAL MONDAYS ASOKA, GARDENS
MR CAT & THE JACKAL DIE BOER, DURBANVILLE
14 JUNE
18 JUNE
2 FOR 1 NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
MON
LAURIKA RAUCH DORPSTRAAT TEATER, STEL
FREE THURSDAY DORPSTRAAT TEATER, STEL
THURS
17 JUNE
SUNDAY JAZZ TABLE BAY HOTEL
SUN
WOODSTOCK MAFIA + REBURN + DOGTOWN + LLEVADO BUCKLEYS, DURBANVILLE
RUBADUB: DOCUMENT ONE “TAINTED DUB EP TOUR” MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
THE RED UNDERGROUND UNPLUGGED &UNION, BREE STR
LEANDI FRANKEN DORPSTRAAT THEATRE, STELLENBOSCH
EQUINOX WEDNESDAYS FICTION, LONG STR
STUDENT NIGHT THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB, CBD
URBAN DECAY AND KAOS KREW PRESENT: URBAN KAOS NISHA, CAMPS BAY MAIN ROAD
GRASS ROOTS ZULA BAR, LONG STR
WED
DAVE KNOWLES AND LONDI GAMEDZE OBVIOUSLY ARMCHAIR BACKPACKERS AND PUB, OBZ
LOOPED SATURDAYS THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB, CBD
METAMORPH THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
SAT
23 JUNE
NO STOPPING THE HIPHOP FEAT. 7 MC’S THE MELTING POT, MUIZENBERG
SIREN MUSIC & PRODUCTION PRESENTS “THE PERFECT CIRCLE” MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
DAVID VAN VUUREN DORPSTRAAT THEATRE, STELLENBOSCH
LOOPED SATURDAYS THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB, CBD
SINDULGENCE RECOLLECTION ALBUM LAUNCH R.O.A.R., OBZ
MERI KENAZ THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
SAT
NOMADIC ORCHESTRA THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
MUTHA FM FRIDAYS @ LA VIE LA VIE, SEA POINT
FAKING IT TRINITY, GREENPOINT
28 JUNE
29 JUNE
02 JULY
03 JULY
04 JULY
MCCREE & THE RESCU MERCURY, ZONNEBLOEM
FAKING IT TRINTY
IG FREE G G LISTIN
EMAIL info@ urbanedgemag. com
OPEN MIC NIGHT MOJO, OBZ
THE SURE THING DRAGON ROOM, CBD
05 JULY THE BLUESTOWN SESSIONS MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM
THURS
LIVE BAND KAREOKE MOJO, OBZ
SEE YOU NEXT WEDNESDAY THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
GRASS ROOTS ZULA BAR, LONG STR
WED
CRIMSON HOUSE BLUES BAND MOJO, OBZ
ACCOUSTIC TUESDAYS ARMCHAIR THEATRE, OBZ
TUES
AKOUSTIK SESSIONS PURPLE TURTLE, LONG STR
2 FOR 1 NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
MON
SUNDAY JAZZ TABLE BAY HOTEL
MUNGUS FUNGUS PURPLE TURTLE, LONG STR
DISCOTHEQUE THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
FRI
IT CAME FROM THE JUNGLE FICTION BAR, LONG STR
JUG NIGHT SPRINGBOK PUB, NEWLANDS
ACCOUSTIK SESSIONS MOJO, OBZ
THURSDAYS LADIES NIGHTS GANDALF’S, OBZ
THURS
EQUINOX WEDNESDAYS FICTION BAR, LONG STR
KARAOKE NIGHT LONG STREET CAFE, LONG STR
OPEN MIC NIGHT THE MELTING POT, MUIZENB.
TATUM EP LAUNCH MERCURY LIVE, ZONNEBLOEM MUNGUS FUNGUS PURPLE TURTLE, LONG STR
STUDENT NIGHT THE LOOP NIGHTCLUB, CBD
DISCOTHEQUE THE ASSEMBLY, CBD
EDGE REVIEWS
@Urban_Edge_Mag
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er
t n i w r u o y p u m r a W
AT DADDY LONG LEGS
words Jeanine Van Der Vyver image Sailor Jerry
VANFOKKINGTASTIES ALBUM LAUNCH
words and images Nadine Van Eeden
Expectations and assumptions should have been on a list of things not to take along to the Vanfokkingtasties acoustic album launch on Thursday the 26th of April. After eagerly waiting in the beer tent to escape the cold, Die Heuwels Fantasties started the show off and offered up the most acoustic performance of the night. It included a beautiful acoustic version of ‘Oorlewing 101’ and a new track called ‘Tyd’, the last song on the new album. I think I speak for the majority of those who attended the launch that the highlight of their set had to be Hunter singing lead vocals for the first time that I’m aware of and pulling it off perfectly. As Van Coke Kartel took to the stage I became more and more curious to hear what some tracks of such a generally raucous band would sound like acoustic. I was pleasantly surprised by ‘Voor Ons Stof Word’, which is featured on the new album, and although overall their set was not as acoustic as I had hoped, the crowd seemed well satisfied by their performance which included ‘Buitenkant II’ and of course, ‘September Fools’. Once aKING started their set with the new version of ‘Face Brick Constellations’ (another track on the album) I decided that giving up on the expectation of a chilled out acoustic show was essential and once I had done this I could enjoy the show for what it was, an acoustic-ish night of great music where the gang seemed to be having just as much fun on stage as the audience themselves (or possibly even more!). Their new track, the opening song on the album, ‘Dead End Avenue’ (Over a Long Distance) 20
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features Pierre of Heuwels and I can’t wait to have it on repeat as soon as I get my hands on that album.
“...an acoustic-ish night of great music where the gang seemed to be having just as much fun on stage as the audience themselves (or possibly even more!).” The last act of the night was, of course, Fokofpolisiekar and by this time the barrier in front of the crowd was breaking and security was trying their best to keep the crowd from destroying it completely because, as I’m sure you know, Fokof fans are renowned for their general crazy behaviour. One disappointing thing about the night is that the barrier was quite far off from the stage, which at times led to some disconnect between the bands and the crowd. Their new song off the acoustic album, ‘Dagdronk’ caused Ramfest flashbacks to the first time I heard their collaboration with Die Antwoord, ‘Doosdronk’. I’m not sure how fitting it is for an acoustic album, but if they continue to perform it like they did at the launch then I foresee that ‘Dagdronk’ will become somewhat of an anthem just as ‘Doosdronk’ did. Oh and did I mention how catchy it is? Overall it was a successful night and definitely worth braving the cold and the trip to Hillcrest Farm in Durbanville, which is, with good reason, quickly becoming a popular gig venue.
Daddy Long Legs, the name may evoke a sense of fear in even the mildest of arachnophobes, but let me assure you there is nothing to fear about this unique art hotel, situated on vibrant and bohemian Long Street. In fact, their hospitality extends not only to guests staying in one of their 13 rooms, each designed by different artists with inventive names like Palimpsest and Emergency Room; but also Joe and Josephine Public, making it the perfect spot to defrost this Winter. Head to Daddy Long Legs at the end of a tough workweek, for their popular Long Legs Friday. Events start around 17:30 until late and entrance is delightfully free of charge. “We planned it that way to accommodate people leaving work and looking for a place to have a chilled evening drink, while listening to some good live music,” says General Manager, Jason Rodwell. The bar is well-prepared for thirsty visitors and during the upcoming colder months, their balcony will be winter-proofed with gas heaters, fleece blankets and freshly-made glühwein, to put a glow in your cheeks. Pick this original venue as your playground and rub shoulders with both locals and tourists, engaging our visitors in a true Capetonian experience and fitting into the interactive side of this quirky hotel. Other good news is that the venue may be used for birthdays, get-togethers, screenings or art exhibitions, without any hiring fee. nts Upcoming Eve 8 June – The fun and fantastic, Wine Flies Wine Tours, will be celebrating their 1st birthday, together with the heartfelt acoustic sounds of Stefan Dixon. 22 June – Come and listen to the sweet sounds of the roots and blues band, Sixgun Gospel. 29 June – Join the modern rock fusion band, Signal Hill and singer-songwriter, Chris Tait for an enjoyable evening.
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D R O O W T N A DIEBLOWS STELLENBOSCH AWAY
words Dee Theart images Vetman van der Naam/ Vetman design and photography special mention www.samusicscene.co.za @CapeTownMusicSc May 2012 kicked off on a musical high note with the news that an international act would grace Stellenbosch’s non-existent shores. The act: Die Antwoord. Yes, I realise that they are as local as the Cape Flats and Sandton yuppies, but let’s face it: this zef rap-rave krew from da dark dangerous depths of Afrika have paid their dues. They are set to kick off their European Summer Tour in June, but decided to entice the Stellenbosch masses with their presence for the first time in two years before they leave for overseas yet again. As a central spot in Stellenbosch, the Town Hall was the chosen den for this once off Bass vs Zeffness event on the 9th of May 2012. The online tickets were sold out a few days before the event already, but luckily a few snoozers could buy tickets at the door. As The Suspect, DJ Sideshow and Narch (PH Fat member) mixed some sick beats behind the DJ decks, the crowd eagerly started pitching to see the fre$, futuristic group, Die Antwoord, strut their stuff. From the excited murmuring it was clear that most of the crowd would be seeing Die Antwoord for the first time. Some even decided to dress up for the occasion with home-made T’s covered in Die Antwoord slogans and lyrics written in koki. No one dared to mimic Yo-landi Vi$$er’s hairstyle though. Wise decision. It’s not likely that anyone would be able to own Yo-landi’s unique undercut. Not to mention her new dark eye look… As it was my fourth time seeing Die Antwoord live in action, my heart started making jolts of excitement when their distinctive tribal =ntro music started to play. Ninja and Yo-landi appeared in orange overalls and the crowd started going nuts as they kicked off their performance with the
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first song from their second album, Ten$ion. If you don’t know what the track is called, Google it – two of the three words in the song’s title are swear words. DJ Hi-Tek was the ever mysterious character in the group, with his usual mask hiding his identity. Basic smoking and lighting was used throughout their performance, but it’s the visuals on the background that caught the attention of the crowd. The images and video footage enhanced every song’s already strong impact.
reason for their huge success as a live act. They understand and react on the others’ every motion and allow the other members to take the shine in different parts of the songs. Yo-landi’s ass shaking, bum revealing dance moves and Ninja’s pelvis thrusts all led to the crowd’s madness. Their costume changes were smartly executed and revealed the different layers of the group’s persona. As Yo-landi mostly portrays the sexy, sweet girl image, Ninja takes on the role of communicator with the crowd. He even motivated the crowd to follow in Die Antwoord’s footsteps, explaining how easy it is to gain popularity through the Internet and social media platforms these days. He said that if they could do it, anyone would be able to. Very humble for a group that have sold millions of records to date and even recently caught the attention of international TV host, David Letterman.
“...Ninja takes on the role of communicator with the crowd. He even motivated the crowd to follow in Die Antwoord’s footsteps, explaining how easy it is to gain popularity through the Internet and social media platforms these days.”
“Die Antwoord are probably one of the most entertaining acts our country has ever delivered. They are a piece of art that makes you think, laugh, sing, shout, dance and go wild.” Die Antwoord are probably one of the most entertaining acts our country has ever delivered. They are a piece of art that makes you think, laugh, sing, shout, dance and go wild. The majority of people that would disagree with this statement have obviously not seen them live before. They know what their fans want and deliver exactly that … and more. Performing most of their debut album’s hits, like ‘Enter The Ninja’, ‘Wat Kyk Jy?’ and ‘Wat Pomp’, as well as the brand-new track, ‘I Fink U Freeky’, it was clear to see why they have become a global phenomenon. The crowd was appreciative and was clearly in awe of Die Antwoord’s every move. The way Ninja and Yo-landi interact with each other and with DJ Hi-Tek is a further
They ended their performance after coming back for an encore, still leaving the crowd begging for more. Die Antwoord succeeds in fusing real musical talent with the entertainment element. As Dublusion started his DJ set behind the decks, the crowd slowly but surely left the Town Hall. Happy, bewildered and hoping to see Die Antwoord back in SA very soon! JUNE 2012
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Classic
DON PEDRO’S
words Urban Edge Mag
n e e K y h Peac‘BACKSEAT BINGO’ EP LAUNCH words Dee Theart
A South African band releasing a debut EP always calls for a celebration. Especially when the band succeeded to create a niche sound and market for themselves in the space of less than a year. Now the time has come for the band to make it official: the launch of their ‘Backseat Bingo’ EP at Mercury Live on the 11th of May 2012. By the look of the big crowd that pitched from early evening, it was clear that this was going to become a musical night of note. Jozi band, Rambling Bones, kicked off the evening with a bang. We Capetonians aren’t lucky enough to see this retro band in action very often, so this memorable occasion called for a serious party. Jay Bones is well-known as lead member of the punk ska group, Fuzigish, and is undeniably also the main focus and driving force behind Rambling Bones. His enthusiastic stage presence intrigues you and keeps your attention throughout the whole performance. The other two members Danger Dawg Bones 3000 (drums and vocals) and Angie Bones (bass and vocals) bring their unique flavour to the group, but one’s attention always diverts back to Jay. Especially Angie’s shyness makes one feel a bit uncomfortable and does not contribute to the band’s crazy vibe. After Rambling Bones set the tone for the evening, it was the Nomadic Orchestra’s turn to captivate the Mercury crowd. And that is exactly what they achieved. Not usually being a big fan of pure instrumental bands, this five-piece Capetonian band simply blew my mind! They’ve stated in previous interviews that their primary goal is to get people moving. Well guys, mission accomplished. Their music and stage presence is catchy and vibey beyond measure. Their self-composed songs consist of a fusion of traditional music from SouthEastern European countries, as well as gypsy and circus music and contemporary Western party music. The point is: you will dance. Guaranteed. It’s clear that these five guys are amazingly talented multi-instrumentalists with formal training behind their names. They play 22
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images Nadia Horn
the trumpet, saxophone, tuba, drums and guitar with such ease and enthusiasm, keeping the smoothness flowing throughout. The Nomadic Orchestra makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside, as well as slightly out of breath from all the fanatical dancing. With the show well on the road, it was time for the main act to strut their stuff. As the two ladies and three guys of Peachy Keen walked on stage, it was clear that they’ve worked out everything to the finest detail. All were dressed up super glam, setting a 1950’s atmosphere: red heels, Monroe hair styles and neat waistcoats. The five-piece looked set to wow the audience. From the first song, it was obvious that they have the right outlook on the SA music scene by creating a unique flavour that the crowd bought into from the start. The leading ladies, Dom and Alex, had that determined look in their eyes throughout their performance. The one aspect of the girls’ image that stood out for me was the ease in which they adapt from sexy, desirable girlie girls to strong-willed, tattooed women who oozes independence. They succeeded to subtly change the mood without disturbing the ambience that was set at the beginning already.
“...it was obvious that they have the right outlook on the SA music scene by creating a unique flavour that the crowd bought into from the start.”
Don Pedro’s, on popular Roedebloem road in Woodstock, is a special kind of restaurant. Part of the Madame Zingara family, it is unlike any of its siblings. A wonderful classy ambience provides the perfect atmosphere for a romantic evening for two, or a special evening out with friends. Recently renovated, Don Pedro’s offers a fantastic variety of meals. We recommend you splurge out and experience their great selection of entrees – Duck and Dumplings, Avocado Ritz Marie Rose, and our personal favourite Phyllo Parcels. Though their menu offers a great variety of dishes, it is a small menu. For a main dish we recommend their Duck Egg Ravioli and Ballentine of Chicken. Their main portions were a perfect size after an entree. For a dessert, which you cannot deny yourself, we found their Creme Caramel a perfect time trap, and their Banana Boat Split a great temptation!
Slightly pricier than the other restaurants within the Madame Zingara family, we recommend that you treat your visit as a special evening – it will be no ordinary restaurant experience. The live piano music adds to the already cosy ambience created by candlelight, busy walls, and red tones. This classy restaurant takes you back to a different era in time offering a wonderful balance between great food and ambience – both key points in creating the perfect restaurant experience. Their staff was well managed and we’re looking forward to the experience again in the near future!
Peachy Keen’s music is catchy, without the almost omnipresent cheesiness that we find so regularly in music these days. It’s difficult to single out a favourite song from this diverse five-track EP, but ‘Shot A Man Down’ and ‘Baby Girl You’re Gonna Burn!’ created quite a dancing mosh pit in front of the stage, with devoted tact Peachy Keen fans going wild to the soulful beats Con Don Pedro’s Restaurant and lyrics. They are undoubtedly a fresh breeze 113 Roedebloem Road, Woodstock in the mass of indie and rock bands clearly (021) 447 6152 ruling the industry at the moment. If this EP www.donpedros.co.za launch was anything to go by, we will be hearing donpedro@madamezingara.co.za loads more from Peachy Keen in the future.
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are not on the EP, are definite favourites. Due to the unfortunate event of my regular gig buddy fainting and somehow managing to cut her lip and chip her tooth I was only able to catch Mr Cat & the Jackal’s last two songs but those were eventful enough! With an array of instruments strewn across the floor and a few shoes floating around the crowd (clearly I had arrived just after ‘Where’s my Shoes’) it was immediately clear that it would take a lot from the UK band, Scoundrels, to top their performance. Security was a bit of an issue on the night as someone managed to climb over the barrier, onto the stage and mumble a few words and images Nadine Van Eeden drunken words over the mic before falling off the stage and nearly taking a monitor UK blues rockers Scoundrels headed to South off with him. Mr Cat & the Jackal may be Africa to play seven shows in just two weeks a crazy bunch but even they seemed quite on the Hunter’s Debut Down South road trip. unimpressed with his antics and the lack of The mastermind behind this tour is Global security to stop him. Mr Cat & the Jackal’s Moguls - an artist promotion, distribution live shows are truly something to behold and and investment platform, focused on the I advise anyone who hasn’t seen them live to music industry, that have now extended their do so soon. scope to include touring. The local bands chosen to play with Scoundrels at their stop “If a minute was taken to close off in Cape Town at The Assembly were one’s eyes and really listen, Bicycle Thief and Mr Cat & the Jackal. their mature bluesy sound Bicycle Thief played their set to a fairly large crowd seeing as they were the first opening would transport you to a booth act. I was glad to finally see them live and in a smoky old blues club in although personally I think the bass guitar the 20s.” could have done with a more bassy tone, especially on their track ‘Past the trees’, I Last up were Scoundrels who are made was impressed by the overall set. It left one up of Ned, Josh, Billy and George. They wondering why they didn’t record a full formed the band with the idea of playing the length album from the get go! Their songs ‘Running out of time’ and ‘Waterhole’, which authentic British blues found in their record
A NIGHTnd OFrels
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collections and have worked with Seymore Stein, the man responsible for the careers of The Ramones and others. Although usually one to do some pre-show research on a band that I don’t know, this time I was going in blind due to an overload of work. Each member looked as if they could be from a British boy band but my worries about the style of music that would ensue were swept away immediately when they began to play. If a minute was taken to close one’s eyes and really listen, their mature bluesy sound would transport you to a booth in a smoky old blues club in the 20s. ‘Sexy Weekend’ was a definite favourite of the night with its quirky lyrics including “…as I hug on my pillow and sip on my beer, no I haven’t had this much fun stalking on Facebook before”. They take their time to feel every note and chord and the atmosphere it creates is tangible. It was great to see an international band in a venue such as Assembly and I can’t wait for the next band that Global Moguls decide to bring down to South Africa.
surprise. It’s guaranteed to get stuck in your head and put a smile on your face. ‘Dead End Avenue’, although not very acoustic is a great “feel-good folk song” and reminds one of why aKING is one of SA’s most successful bands. ‘Tyd’ is, without a doubt, my favourite track on the album. words Nadine Van Eeden Die Heuwels Fantasties brought something new to the The VanFokKingTasties concept table in that Hunter sings lead on the verses with Pierre manifested for the first time on coming in on the chorus and harmonies. It’s the perfect song to listen to on those days when everything just the 29th of July in 2009 in the Stellenbosch Town Hall. It’s hard becomes too much. ‘Almal is Bang’ is also a favourite and according to the band “has an old school rock feeling, but to believe that almost three years have passed but the boys can also remind you of the grunge era.” It also allowed the electric guitar wizard, Jedd, to show that he’s just as are back in full force with their first collaborative album release, prolific with an acoustic. the VanFokKingTasties Acoustic The acoustic versions of old tracks that truly stood out are Die Heuwels Fantasties ‘Nare Kaskenades’ with its Album. It is made up of two sighing violins, aKING’s ‘Face Brick Constellations’ with its acoustic versions of old tracks and one new track from each band. The three new tracks on the album western feel and Van Coke Kartel’s ‘Buitenkant II’ in which are ‘Dag Dronk’, ‘Dead End Avenue (Over a Long Distance)’, ‘Almal is Bang’ the violin, cello and piano create a thick, dark and moody and ‘Tyd’ by Fokofpolisiekar, aKING, Van Coke Kartel and Die Heuwels atmosphere. Fantasties respectively. ‘Dag Dronk’ is a fun, catchy song and, although Overall this album is a gem and deserves a place in your it isn’t something you would expect from Fokof, it’s not an unpleasant music collection.
Acoustic Album
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NATASHA MEISTER BAND Halfway
words Dee Theart special mention www.samusicscene.co.za Although Natasha Meister seems like quite a newbie in the SA music scene, she has in fact been around the block. Playing at big fests like Splashy Fen and Synergy last year, South African music enthusiasts could not help but notice this immense Canadian-born vocal talent. And now she can also boast with her debut album, ‘Half Way’. From the first track already, it becomes clear that Natasha’s music will be ideal to listen to after a long day at the office. The melodies are mellow and her strong voice pulls you in for an easy-listening musical journey. Her talent is raw, unpretentious and solid. No one can deny her that. You feel like you are listening to an international blues and soul songstress, such as Aretha Franklin or Etta James. It might be the Canadian roots that shimmer through, giving Natasha that musical edge above other local artists. The songs are not all pure blues, however. Natasha varies the intensity of the blues genre, mixing it up with a good dose of different genres, such as pop, rock and folk. Singing songs epitomising some of every individual’s struggles and joys in life and love, Natasha gives a fresh take on these mostly hackneyed themes.
“ The SA Music Scene is yearning for more of this at the moment: song-driven music with a bluesy, soulful twist. ” The songs are very honest, emotive expositions of where Natasha is currently at in her life. At times the song choruses become almost irritably repetitive though. Blues lovers will know, however, that this repetitive element is simply a characteristic of the musical genre. It’s difficult to identify a favourite track on the album, but I predict that the title track, ‘Half Way’ will gain tons of support on local radio and music video charts. Other favourites are ‘Winter Storm’, ‘This Desire’ and ‘Good Thang’. The album ended off somewhat bluntly, but luckily the listener is surprised with a bonus track, concluding the album on a grand note. This album review would not be complete without making special mention of Natasha’s two fellow musicians on the album, namely Roger Bashew (bass) and Paul Tizzard (drums), also known as The Lonesharks. It would be a shame if the compositions and instruments did not match Natasha’s immense voice. Fortunately I was not disappointed. Listening to the album, I can imagine them performing in a smoky bar, where the guests are all dolled up in fancy dresses, long black gloves, neat suits and bow ties. A typical scene out of a 1950s movie. Natasha Meister Band’s ‘Half Way’ album came at just the right time. The SA Music Scene is yearning for more of this at the moment: song-driven music with a bluesy, soulful twist. Similarly to the UK’s Adele, the essential focus remains on the music. Even the simplistic album cover and photo’s conveys this message to the listener. Well done to Natasha, fellow musicians and production team on a fantastic product. Urban Edge magazine give it’s stamp of approval! Fans and critics agree that the album does not do total justice to Natasha Meister Band’s talent.
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PEACHY KEEN
Backseat Bingo words DeeTheart image Hendrik Hviid
The concept of new bands bringing out an EP before a full-length album, I find quite clever. Enabling the band to test out the market, it becomes almost a taste of bigger and better things yet to come. Peachy Keen has established their distinctive rock-a-billy sound loud and clear to SA music fanatics in the past year. Therefore, the time was ripe for something official. The end result is their five-track EP, ‘Backseat Bingo’. Recorded at Cedric Samson’s renowned Tree House Studios in Hout Bay with Samson himself at the head of production, ‘Backseat Bingo’ already gets our stamp of professionalism. The album art work done by One Horse Town is chic, but yet fun and enticing. It links well with the idea behind the EP title. ‘Backseat Bingo’ is a 50s slang term for fooling around in the backseat of a car, but is also associated with the band’s love of the 50s musical era. Mixing the naughty with the classy is what Peachy Keen is all about and this EP is a perfect representation of this concept. Kicking the EP off with a mainly keyboard-driven instrumental solo in the track ‘Do I Have To Explain?’, the listener is taken on a time travelling journey back to a smoky, jazz bar in the golden 1950s. The groovy rhythms are contagious and you can’t help bobbing your head, tapping your toe and maybe throwing in a bit of good ol’ twist and shout dance moves. The second track, ‘Shot A Man Down’, is Peachy Keen’s well-known, first single of which they have also released a music video. There is a clear sense of independence in Dominique and Alexia’s strong-willed voices throughout the EP. They complement each other perfectly and one is left in awe of how smoothly their voices overlap, especially in the third and fourth track, ‘Don’t Call Me Baby’ and ‘Baby Girl You’re Gonna Burn’. It’s also clear that Brandon Shore, Greg Abrahams and Ryan McArthur brought their own unique spice to the success recipe of Peachy Keen. The EP ends off with the only mildly slow track, ‘Oh! Darling’, also definitely the vocally strongest track on the EP. This track also contrasts very well with the rest of the songs, in that the vulnerability of the female shimmers through, confirming the Peachy Keen ladies’ softer, sexy side. All in all this EP is the most diverse offering I’ve heard from a band in a long time. The sixteen minutes are over in a flash and you will be left craving more of the soulful goodness. Let’s hope the wait for more from Peachy Keen won’t be too long.
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WHEN IN BROAD DAYLIGHT, I OPEN MY EYES written by Greg Lazarus published by Kwela
A psychological thriller set in a familiar yet sinister Cape Town. It explores, in evocative and erotic fashion, the ways in which people prey on one another. Greg Lazarus is the pen name of husband-and-wife writing duo Greg Fried and Lisa Lazarus, who launched the novel three years after they first put pen to paper. Lisa and Greg, like the internationally popular Nicci French, also a husband-and-wife team who write psychological thrillers, say that they ‘love exciting, tense novels, where the stakes are high’. They add: ‘We also admire fiction in which the complexity of people – our contradictory desires, our mixture of goodness and malice – is taken seriously, as well as novels that explore fundamental questions such as how a person’s worldview influences her life.’ The novel explores the aftermath of psychologist Maria Petros’ mother’s sudden death, and the disturbing questions she confronts. What is the secret society that her mother frequented? Who is the philosopher Maria meets in a therapy session, and why is he pursuing her with such vigour? As she delves into her mother’s strange life, she finds herself seduced and facing grave danger. Published in April by Kwela, When in Broad Daylight I Open My Eyes has already received numerous positive reviews. The erotic nature of the novel enhances its eerie mood. Their latest novel can be purchased at all leading bookstores as well as online.
MIEKE ROCK UIT
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written by Jana Du Plessis published by Tafelberg
Divorced at 25, and with only a BA degree to her name. What on earth is Mieke going to do – to the world she looks like just another blonde Pretoria poppie with no work experience at all! She can’t stay another minute in her mother’s house, and on the spur of the moment she goes on a road trip with her sister and the band Siek. The rock star lifestyle is a revelation to Mieke, and not in a good way. It’s all too much, yet Siek and their issues start to become Mieke’s key to the future – although nothing is gained without a price. About the author: Jana du Plessis was born in Bellville in 1980. After completing a BA in Publishing at the UP, as well as a postgraduate diploma in copy writing at Vega Johannesburg, she was a copy writer at Jacaranda 94.2, travel writer for in-flight magazines, and lecturer at Vega and the UJ.She currently works as digital content manager and uses her nights to hone her writing craft.
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New App/Book tren
BONSAI AND GERONIMO go to the park
Cape Town-based agency, Domino Digital Design Company, has announced the launch of a new children’s book available as an iPad app and soft-cover book. Bonsai and Geronimo go to the Park features a South African first - an in-app record my voice option. Conceived, produced and published by the agency, the story is the first in a series aimed at teaching children important life lessons through the eyes of two adorable pet poodles in an engaging, entertaining way. Designed as a literacy tool, the record my voice option provides unique audio functionality that allows you to record and play the story back to your children in your own voice in the accent they are familiar with, so children need never go to sleep without hearing their parent’s voice again. Cape Town will be introducing itself as Design Capital of the World 2014 to an international audience at an exhibition in Helsinki in September. The Bonsai and Geronimo go to the Park project has been selected by the Mayor’s World Design Capital Task Team as one of six pieces to represent Cape Town at this exhibition.
kshakes in Town! Best MilPROTEA FIRE AND ICE HOTEL AND BAR
The Protea Fire and Ice Hotel in Central Cape Town, offers a perfect location for early evening drinks. If you haven’t been to this quirky yet trendy hotel and bar, I’m sure you’ve heard of it! Their popularly themed bathrooms – the outhouse, stage fright, and the long drop to name but a few – serve as a great attraction for sightseers and locals who visit the bar. Other attractions include the coughin room (for smokers), decorated with coffins and slick red tones, and themed elevators. Perfect for an evening of drinks with friends, the hotel bar is ever so popular for its milkshake creations and unforgiving cocktails. Among the most interesting milkshakes available are The Belly Dancer (Turkish Delight), Tick Tack Kit Kat (Kit Kat), Peanana Nutter (Peanut and Banana butter), and The Green Iguana (Avocado and Green Apple). Our favourites were definitely the Lindt and Aero Milkshakes – a sure experience not to miss out on! Left: Stage Fright bathroom; Far Left: Coughin Room
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Upcoming Band
GRASSY SPARK words Yvette Adams
images Thor Rixon
Grassy Spark is a collection of musicians with a passion for groove. They blend reggae with rock, funk, ska, latin and whatever else makes them ‘jolituuiiit’, all coming together to form a unique sound that is fueled by the love they have for music. Originally created by guitarist and vocalist Josh Riley and Yanick Bathfield, current guitarist of 7th son, Grassy Spark is a play on the name of a suburb in Cape Town, Grassy Park. The name ‘Grassy Spark’ encompasses all the associations
Band Interview
THE GREAT APES words Angelique Redmond image Michael Ellis
The Great Apes - if you have not seen them live in Cape Town, where have you been hiding? Familiar faces on stage at The Assembly and known for their distinct sound and frenetic but infectious energy onstage they are firm favourites and crazy rockers on the local Cape Town music scene. The Apes consists of Yusif Sayigh on vocals, Antonie Gunther on Lead guitar, Pienaar Du Plessis on Rhythm, Jacques Stemmet on Bass and Jeakan Coetzee on Drums. Each one of the Apes is as individual as the next and their music is a reflection of the distinct personalities that make up this energetic, balls to the wall, stand up and scream rock band. I recently had the pleasure of chatting to Yusif about music, some politics and the Apes. Don’t be deceived by the pretty face, Yusif is one ‘serious about music’, eccentric, talented, rock vocalist. 26
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one would have about the diverse cultures and mannerisms of life in Cape Town, and of course those of reggae - like cannabis/ marijuana. Previously, both commerce students at University of Cape Town, Josh and Yanick have similar musical backgrounds and formed part of metal band Wings of Aggression in their early music career.
“Their ‘reggae-nouveau’ music comfortably takes your soul to different places. Their onstage performance will leave you pleasantly surprised.” Yanick went on to study Jazz Guitar, and joined 7th son in mid-2010 – though he was originally approached by the ‘rude rock reggae’ band while still in High School. Since graduating, Yanick has gone on tour with Hog Hoggidy Hog and is now focusing on his already successful music career with 7th son, and Grassy Spark. Josh and Yanick played their first reggae gig together in 2011, sparking Josh’s interest in the genre. There’s loads of talent in the South African Music Scene at present, but it’s nearly impossible to make a living of it so perhaps it’s not growing as fast or as much as it could. In some countries like Holland or Norway the government subsidizes artists to contribute and cross-pollinate with other countries. That kind of thing would be great for the industry of arts in SA. It would mean poorer people could invest themselves in their art and we’d have a lot more international artists interested in moving over here rather than the other way around. There’s a lot to complain about regarding the South African Music Industry, but actually I think it’s a really exciting time for SA music. The Internet has helped people hear what’s happening on the other side of the country and in totally different scenes; I think that’s really cool. I dig Spoek Mathambo and I probably would never have heard of him if things were still based on record-sales and radio-play. The age of Record Label Supremacy is over and it was never going to help SA music grow the way that the internet can if bands are willing to do it themselves at least in part (here’s hoping we get round to it). Our sound has evolved since we first started playing. It’s cleaner, surprisingly - for better or worse. We’ve obviously improved a lot and we’re a lot more
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According to Yanick, their performance in the ‘Sublime’ tribute show in early Jan 2012 at Mercury Live in Zonnebloem, “sealed the deal”, and Grassy Spark was born. Lawrence Jaeger, a previous member of Wings of Aggression and a current member of melodic black metal band Crow Black Sky, started playing drums when he was eight years old, and is the third member of Grassy Spark. Other talented members include Kevin Kok on bass – a two-time MK Award Nominee; and brothers Nick and Matthew Hurworth on keyboard, sax and trumpet. This new and fresh six piece ensemble is adapting to the new trend in South African Music – blending genres and exploring different sounds. Their ‘reggae-nouveau’ music comfortably takes your soul to different places. Their onstage performance will leave you pleasantly surprised. Catch them at The Jolly Roger in Plumstead on 8 June at 9pm, and at Brass Bell in Kalk Bay (R40) on 9 June at 8pm, opening for 7th Son.
et In Touch G@grassyspark grassyspark@gmail.com
Booking Agent: Yvette Adams (0826981767) confident in terms of delivery and improvisation. Now it’s time to see what all the drilling has produced when we let go of some of the tension. What we have planned for our listeners this year is lots of building. We have to build a website and online distribution for the music and visual media, not to mention physical distribution for the album. We have a lot of new material that needs to be worked into compositions. We have a music video to release and another to create. We have a fan-base to build up, globally. Once we’ve got new material and we feel like the machine is well oiled we’ll hit the road again, hopefully for a more sustained tour to raise money for the next phase - international touring. All of this will, of course, happen over night with little or no grafting. I’d go completely mad without music. It’s empowering, therapeutic and sexual. It allows me to empathize and feel like I can communicate with great artists and with people of totally different - and nearly identical - circumstances on a deeper level than speech might allow. I can commune with the dead. It’s a beautiful medium for the collective unconscious. Before a gig we all have our rituals. I eat loads, warm up my voice, and stretch. Post-gig? A lot of fetal-spooning.
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Playing in HOT
EDGE MUSIC
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WATER
“Hot Water’s style both musically and in business is to both reach forward and reach back - so I can envisage a vinyl and online release soon.” We’ve collaborated with many artists in the past and our favourite has been David Kramer We’ve done a lot of touring in and around Europe...it’s now time to visit the US...
The name ‘Hot Water’ came about when I saw the words printed on a piece of paper stuck on a trolley at Century City. When it came to decide a name for the project I had in mind, this (was) the only option that felt right. Our sound, in three words, is Dynamic, South, African Internationally the band is now known as Donovan Copley’s HOT WATER and this expresses how the band operates. It’s basically a band (brand) based on a vision I had \ have to express and experience an oasis of unity through music. There are musical roles which have become more and more defined that many different musicians have played over the years. These roles serve to fundamentally support the central drive which is to draw and deliver water from the South African well.
ourselves. This is what I am working on in Hot Water, this question of fundamental identity. I also think we are going to see South African art and culture break through into the international scene powerfully in the next period of time.
We’re at the Drum Magazine’s Celebrations in JHB on 02 June 2012 and it also looks like we’ll be performing at the Comrades Marathon on 03 June. For news on shows please check our gig guide at www.hotwater. co.za or visit us on Facebook. From July our international touring starts and we have some great surprises in the pipeline on this front!
uch o T n I Get hotwater.co.za
info@hotwater.co.za youtube.com/watch?v=U6Wn8Eq0eCI
All of our albums are quite similar in that they’re broad and cross quite a lot of styles and genres - they’re exploratory albums... they’re the beginning of a process of exploring what it means to be South African at this time. The next album is going to hit that nail on the head directly. Kirstenbosch Summer Sunset Concerts are I think one of the best shows to play in the country. We recently performed there again and something very special happened for us (again)...we also launched our first album ‘Home’ at Kirstenbosch back in 2006, which basically launched the band, so the venue holds a special place for Hot Water. I’d like to see more bands playing South African music. I think music, art, film reflects a country’s identity and how we feel about JUNE 2012
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EDGE ARTIST PROFILE
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SARA CLACKETT
tells us about upcoming trends, her favourite products and her new courses on offer. What is Tickle Pink all about? Tickle Pink is all about make-up! We offer hair styling and make-up for any occasion. We specialize in, but are not limited to, bridal and photographic hair and make-up. I wanted to teach people the basic techniques the correct way and help them grow their own personal style. I want to make sure they go into the industry knowing what they are doing and doing it well. I have kept the classes very small to ensure each student gets all the attention they need. I offer a couple of different courses and all the information is on my website www. ticklepink.co.za.
Image by Fern Evans Photography Model: Jessica Pearse, Styling: Sarah Clackett (Tickle Pink)
t s i t r A p Maked-uStylist anMake-up artist, stylist and owner of ‘Tickle Pink’, Sara Clackett,
What do you think a stylist needs to be equipped with to make it in the beauty industry? I think the most important things to know are that there is always more to learn, don’t take things too personally and don’t lose your inspiration.
“I think we get a lot of inspiration from leading international countries and follow their seasonal trends, but South Africa has some amazingly talented artists that create their own style.” How would you describe your signature look and what is it about your style that sets you apart from other makeup artists/ hair stylists? I would have to say ‘big and colourful’ I love creating and experimenting What is the most important beauty advice that you can give someone? Prevention is better than cure. What are some common beauty/styling mistakes that women make? Wearing too much make-up. Start with less and build up the look you want to achieve.
Image by Gary Huddlestone (GMH photography) Model: Sarah Steel, Styling: Sarah Clackett (Tickle Pink)
“It looks like bright colours are back-my soft spot! This season’s hair trend is soft wavy locks. Think the Kardashian sisters.” 28
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What are some of your favorite products in your makeup kit? I use a make-up brand called Ofra and use the same products as student kits. Ofra has so many amazing products; a lip sealer to ensure your lipstick doesn’t smudge, amazing gel liner and such a large variety of foundations one of which starts as a mineral powder and gives a full coverage. What products do you think should be a staple in every woman’s purse? Lip Gloss-it’s the easiest way to quickly freshen up a look.
What are the current beauty/ hair styling trends that you are noticing for winter? It looks like bright colours are back-my soft spot! This season’s hair trend is soft wavy locks. Think the Kardashian sisters.
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Photographer of the month coordination Angelique Redmond
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EDGE PHOTOGRAPHER
HANRO HAVENGA
“It’s a strange thing, every photo I choose to take is like a wake up call, a point in time that I can exactly relate to, it’s like everything in between is really just a blur. I’d say poetically the photographs I take are: Blurs in Time, Stills in Motion.” -
Hanro Havenga
whyhelloclarice.wordpress.com
IT VIS500 Days of This
500daysofthis.wordpress.com
500daysofthis.wordpress.com
hanrohavenga@yahoo.com
“500 days was a project I started to keep myself busy. Taking at least one photo a day of things I see, places I visit and people I meet...It evolved to a point where I knew I couldn’t just go on as I was at first, shooting friends at parties and people around me... I realised that there is so much more going on around me that it forced me to mission out of my comfort zone.”
JUNE 2012
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EDGE TRAVEL
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R A C S A G A MAD
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BAOBABS, LEMURS, A BIT OF RUM AND A BLOODY GOOD TRIP. THIS IS MADAGASCAR. words and images Greg Bertish
I first went over to explore the SW coast of Madagascar back in the late 90’s. I had crossed the Indian Ocean to find waves and to explore the coast after seeing some maps and hearing stories about amazing surf and kiteboarding spots. I was to meet my mate Jumpy and his catamaran in the big SW port town of Toliera. As is with Madagascar, things did not quite go as to plan. My plane from the Capital, Antananarivo, was delayed for 2 days, and Jumpy’s Yacht hit a whale and broke a rudder during the crossing. However, it all finally came together, and as they say, the rest is history. Located off the east coast of Africa, the Red Island is one of the poorest countries in the world, and by no means easy to travel and find surf. The second largest island after Australia, 4 time’s bigger than England, with 4th world poverty and very little infrastructure, yet I have come to love the place, its people and its waters. My first week was spent looking for a sail on the horizon, and hoping my floating home would arrive from across the sea. This delay in my plans turned out to be a blessing, as it allowed me to not only explore the South West coast, but also the South East. Toliera is a place with no equal. Rickshaws (Puss Puss’s) ply the streets for a measly 2000 Airy Airy per trip. Their drivers are lean and limber, and all but comfortable in their plastic sandals that look nothing more than lucky packet prizes. I hopped a Taxi Brusse (local Bus) and headed north, just a short few hours, to the more quintessential tropical beach and lagoon lined coast of Ifati. The crystal waters welcome all weary tourists traveling in from the great deserts and barren planes that cover this coast and interior for mile upon mile. The lagoons barrier is located far off shore, and the waters here are protected and still most mornings until the daily southern trade comes in to ruffle and tussle its water into a windsurfer and kiteboarders dream. The beach is lined by great Fir (type) trees and other palms. And nestled below these are quite a few Lodge, Resort and home stays. From rustic to Madagascan 4 star, there is almost something for all. I scubadived, snorkelled, surfed and windsurfed. I wondered inland and saw the Baobabs and unique coastal succulents and the magnificent spinney cactus forest. 30
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When I received word that my boat was doing repairs and waiting for parts on Europa Island, I made plans to see some local attractions while I had time and local money to burn. From Toliera it’s just a short 1 hour flight across the base of the country to the antithesis of the dry and flat south west.
“...full throttle we wound our way through the coral reefs, the turquoise bays and the barren landscape to a little fishing village on the edge of nowhere.”
capital, people scattered and small children hid when my boards and I pulled in. And if the raw meat, road side toilets, and other mass chaos had not sent me home the first time, then the road ahead was to be no problem. All part of the adventure and always amazing to new comers is the Zebu (local Cow with a hump) cart ride, with boards and all, through the muddy shallows to the awaiting boats. Once aboard the boats we set off in search of the catamaran, full throttle we wound our way through the coral reefs, the turquoise bays and the barren landscape to a little fishing village on the edge of nowhere.
Landing in Fort Dauphin is something special. I’ve done it many times now and it still has not lost its magic. The white beaches and wild coast from the air is spectacular. Its mountains and Peak Louis, which towers over the town, are majestic and beautiful, providing a look and feeling of adventure . This village is one of a kind, situated on two mini peninsulas, lined by white beaches, which are backed by lush waterways, backed by thick and tropical mountain peaks. The beach of Libanona is lovely. Chez George serves amazing cocktails and seafood platters. The Lava Lodges wooden chalets nestle in the bays hills, and the Libanona Lodge’s rim flow pool looks out to the infinity of the Indian Ocean and horizon beyond. Only a short stroll away is a surfer’s dream wave, a South African run restaurant with amazing local cuisine and the town square with all manner of happenings at night and in the day. By night the new Disco is the place to laugh and experience the taste of local Rum and 3 Horses Beer. By day the local market will open your eyes and mind to just how rural and poor this world really is. I flew back to the West just 5 days later. The Cat had arrived but was now moored down the coast and all I had to do was get to her. Being pretty battle hardened by now and having travelled with surf & kite boards for the past 2 weeks I knew the deal. In the
And there she was. Tranquil looking, so clean and modern out in the bay. The catamaran, the Sweet Sunshine, was all that her name proclaimed. So I spent the next 2 weeks exploring the coast of the south by sea, living and loving the other side of the travel coin. I have since returned to Madagascar 8 times. I love her people and her Faddy (Local beliefs and rituals). I love her towns and cities; their mix of new Europe and old Africa. I love her highs and lows; her mountains, her canyons, her rivers and her hills. I love her by land and I love her by sea. This is Madagascar and there is no other place on earth like it.
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EDGE FOOD
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WINTER MEALS
BEEF TATAKI
by Executive Chef Simon Kemp
Simon Kemp is the executive chef of the four star Upper Eastside Hotel and Conference Centre – the first luxury hotel in Cape Town’s up-and-coming suburb of Woodstock. Renowned for his professional creativity, attention to detail and ability to excel under immense pressure, Kemp’s experience spans some of South Africa’s top four and five star hotels and convention centers. With international experience in the UK, Ireland and Germany, Kemp enjoys experimenting with different cuisines, from South African, Thai or Japanese to Chinese, German, fine dining and health conscious food. Since the launch of the Upper Eastside Hotel in June 2010, Kemp has been responsible for overseeing the food at Liberty’s, the hotel’s 100-seater restaurant. His responsibilities include the planning, organization and execution of all kitchen department functions, as well as creating weekly special, pairing and seasonal menus. Kemp also oversees the catering for the hotel’s conference centre – his team of 30 regularly cater for up to 1 000 covers in across the restaurant and conference centre in a single day.
WILD MUSHROOM GNOCCI
Rocket and walnut pesto 200g rocket leaves, washed and patted dry 100g walnuts 2 cloves garlic, peeled 50g freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano 2 teaspoon sea salt 1 teaspoon black peppercorns 200ml Extra Virgin / Cold pressed olive oil Method 1.Lightly roast the walnuts under the grill till light golden to release the oils. 2.Finely blend the garlic, sea salt and peppercorns with the olive oil till smooth. Remove from blender and keep in a jug. 3.Place rocket leaves, roasted walnuts, cheese and olive oil in blender and “pulse” till you have a grainy / chunky pesto (do not over blend smooth pesto is not as nice as chunky pesto).
Wild mushroom sauce 1 cup sliced fresh wild mushroom mix, such as, shimeji, shitake, enoki, king oyster 1 tsp chopped organic Italian parsley 30ml olive oil 5ml white truffle oil 200ml cream 50ml grated Pecorino Romano Pinch sea salt and cracked black pepper
Japanese marinated grilled flame seared beef fillet, Asian marinade, with watercress and daikon. From the hotel’s rooftop garden - watercress. (serves 4) Watercress salad 200g organic watercress, washed 1 small daikon (Japanese Radish), finely shredded or grated 2 Tablespoons rice wine vinegar 1 teaspoon toasted sesame seeds Beef 500g trimmed beef fillet 80ml soy sauce 20ml rice wine vinegar 20ml mirin 40ml castor sugar 1/2 tsp sesame oil 20ml canola oil Sea salt and cracked black pepper
Method 1.Trim the fillet into two rolls, season with the salt and pepper and grill in a hot griddle pan. Grill until your preference - rare or medium rare. 2.Remove and allow to cool. Place in a plastic bag with the marinade and allow to marinade for four hours or overnight. 3.Arrange the watercress and shredded daikon, drizzle with a little rice wine vinegar and toasted sesame seeds. 4.Remove the beef from the marinade and thinly slice. Arrange over the watercress and daikon and drizzle with a little extra marinade.
White truffle infused sauce, rocket and walnut pesto, Pecorino Romano and sautéed wild mushrooms. Fresh wild mushrooms have a wonderful woody flavor and this is a perfect winter warmer. Chefs note: Making the gnocchi yourself is time consuming, but definitely the most rewarding part of the dish - you can buy par cooked gnocchi to save time but the result will not be the same. From the garden - Rocket, Italian Parsley. (serves 4)
Method 1.Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan and add mushrooms give them nice colour in the pan. 2.Season with salt, pepper, chopped parsley and truffle oil. 3.Remove half from the pan and keep on one side for garnish. 4.Add cream to the pan with cheese and reduce till a sauce consistency is achieved.
To Serve Fresh organic rocket leaves Pecorino shavings 1.Cook / re-heat the gnocchi (when it rises to the surface of water it is ready). 2.Toss the gnocchi in the mushroom sauce 3.Divide between 4 bowls and garnish with fresh rocket, wild mushrooms, Pecorino shavings and rocket and walnut pesto.
JUNE 2012
Read more about the new trend of
ORGANIC HERB AND VEGETABLE GARDENS on page 07
Images taken at Upper Eastside Hotel in Woodstock
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EDGE SPORTS OPINION
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THE GREAT SHARK ISSUE words Seamus Allardice
surf image Melissa Kelly/ gilmoregirlworks.co.nr
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sea birds are feeding nearby, don’t surf a reef or sandbar on the edge of a steep drop-off, don’t surf alone, only surf where there are shark spotters on duty and the list goes on. In reality, even in the worst possible conditions, the risk of an attack is actually minimal. I’m not suggesting I’d paddle out if I saw a shark in the water, but common sense does need to prevail.
“...we must support shark research and refrain from finger pointing at other industries.”
Since the tragic events of that sunny, April afternoon, when David Linfield, a young Springbok body boarder lost his life in the surf off Caves in Kogel Bay, things have not quite been the same. I never met David, but still the loss of his life, affected mine. We shared mutual friends and more importantly we shared a sport, a pasttime, a lifestyle. His horrific death has cast a long shadow across the surfing community and in the ensuing months the spotlight has been turned on the shark issue like never before. Perhaps I’m being melodramatic, but it seems barely a day goes by without a spotting being retweeted, reposted or rereported. It’s become impossible to ignore. The men in grey suits are cruising through our collective consciousness, tapping into our primeval fears. To non-surfers, our continued desire to brave the waters must seem strange. As a surfer and skater I’ve been questioned many times in the past how I can subject myself to the risks of longboarding public roads, with the combined dangers of cars and crashes. But recently people seem less concerned about the skating and more so about the surfing. The macabre Jaws fantasy – a massive, hungry shark always lurking – has taken a root, regardless of the facts and real risks.
“Danger wise, there is significantly more chance of you requiring medical attention from cutting your foot on a sea-shell.” 32
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“...it was generally accepted that great whites were anthrophagous (they ate people) by choice. Now we know that almost every attack on a human is an accident.” The man responsible for the popularisation, for want of a better word, of the shark hysteria is arguably Peter Benchley, the author of the Jaws novel. The book would go on to become the biggest box office hit of the time, when Steven Spielberg made the film adaptation in 1975. Benchley was wracked by guilt in the years following the film’s release and became a highly active shark conservationist. A few years before his death in 2006 he wrote: “considering the knowledge accumulated about sharks in the last 25 years, I couldn’t possibly write Jaws today ... not in good conscience anyway. Back then, it was generally accepted that great whites were anthrophagous (they ate people) by choice. Now we know that almost every attack on a human is an accident: The shark mistakes the human for its normal prey.” Even if sharks were anthrophagous, surfers would still surf. There are few feelings more euphoric than gliding down the face of a wave. Words cannot possibly do it justice, and for a good fix most surfers would risk almost anything. We all know the warnings: don’t surf during dusk, don’t surf in murky waters especially near river mouths, don’t surf with an open wound, don’t surf while
There are on average about 100 shark attacks world-wide every year, of those less than a quarter prove to be fatal. Danger wise, there is significantly more chance of you requiring medical attention from cutting your foot on a sea-shell. We live in a world which is trying to kill us and sharks are easier to vilify than hypertension. Yes, anecdotal evidence suggest the dreaded Carcharodon carcharias (Great White Shark) population is rising, and so too are the numbers of people looking to the ocean for recreation. Encounters between us and them will occur. Alas tragedies will take place. But vilifying the shark is not the solution.
image Michael Heilemann
At this point in time, large scale risk mitigation alternatives are not viable. How could anyone condone the hunting out of an animal because we are infringing on its territory? And in the Cape waters, the use of extensive shark nets is also impracticable, though the Fish Hoek corner is reportedly going to experiment with them on a smaller scale. Unfortunately, we as ocean users must come to terms with the possibility of shark encounters. Because of that we must support shark research and refrain from finger pointing at other industries. Sharks behaviour is still largely a mystery and sensationalism does nothing to further our understanding of them. So please, support the Shark Spotter project (sharkspotters. org.za), it’s a good place to start and act rationally, not sensationally when dealing with the shark issue.
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TRIVIAL PURSUIT
1. Which Formula 1 driver has the nickname ‘The Iceman’? 2. What breed of dog was Jock from the autobiographical novel Jock of The Bushveld? 3. Which Southern African coast has the highest sand dunes in the world? 4. What famous American horse race is held at Churchill Downs? 5. What low plain, once under the sea, connects the Cape Peninsula with the mainland of Africa? 6. What does a man suffering from diphallic
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terata have? 7. What city has the world’s largest underground railway system? 8. Which movie did Nicolas Cage star in which won him a Best Actor in a Leading Role Oscar in 1995? 9. Who was Emperor of Rome when Jesus Christ was crucified? 10. Which actor/martial artist is known as The Muscles from Brussels? 11. Who led the revolt of Roman slaves and Gladiators in AD 73? 12. How many hearts does an Octopus have? 13. The Hip Hop duo OutKast consists of rappers Big Boi and _____?
14. How many suspects are there in the game of Cluedo? 15. Who is currently the Captain of the South African National Football Team? 16. What is the name of Dexter’s sister in Dexter’s Laboratory? 17. Where does Bruno hail from Sacha Baron Cohen’s 2009 film Bruno? 18. What city is Find the surrounded by Rome? 19. What is the answers at national bird of South urbanedgemag. Africa? com 20. What colour does a bride wear in China?
JUNE 2012
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EDGE CAUSE
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e t i s i u c x E
BUNNY CORPSE
Cape Town design blog/collective/collaboration ‘sweet ‘n soutie’ started the Exquisite Bunny Corpse, a little project where all their members contributed to creating and making collaborative designer bunnies, to be auctioned off to raise money to buy the things on ‘Skiereiland Maatskaplike Dienste’s’ wish list.
How it all began - sweet ‘n soutie
Created by two very creative ladies, Henriette Rademan and Chantelle Arpesella, ‘sweet & soutie’ is a creative network of local cape town designers, crafters and thing-makers. Every 6-8 weeks the ‘sweet ‘n soutie’ creatives get together with a theme in mind and chat, network and play over coffee and good food.
What it’s all about - The exquisite bunny ‘Paris’ above – this oh-so glamorous bling bunny, spends long hours in the spa, wrapped in her monogrammed gown and slippers, oh the life of a kept bunny! ‘Hector’ right – Previously from Mexico, he has a kind soul, a strong religious backing, and what he lacks in smarts he makes up for with his charitable inclinations to the aged.
The Charity
“We made the decision that we’d rather make a big difference to a small charity than a little difference to a big charity. The challenge was to find one that was doing amazing things with very little support or resources. Not exactly something that you can type into Google and get a list of! So we began by asking everyone that we know, and that they know, and started getting feedback on all sorts of charities, what a difficult decision to say , ‘oh no sorry you’re not what we’re looking for’, as if every charity doesn’t deserve!!!” explains the founders. Eventually, one of their members, Tessa, suggested they contact a colleague, Katherine, who has adopted two kids already and was so moved by the charity that she is now personally involved. They are based in Elsiesrivier, and are called ‘Skiereiland Maatskaplike Dienste’ (translation ‘peninsula social services’). They are not well supported at all, and seem to need a lot of help. How they work is, they have a drop-off point or collect babies/kids that mom’s no longer want or are unable to take care of. They then place these ‘abandoned angels’ in one of two children’s homes and begin the task of finding foster/adoptive care for them. The kids that ‘arrive’ at their office in Elsiesrivier are often very sick, filthy and starving, and they have a supply cupboard of essentials that they use, and then often have to rush the babies/kids off to the closest government hospital for treatment. They are always in need of the following: Nappies (all sizes), Formula (Infacare), Wet wipes, Baby toiletries (wash/shampoo, baby powder, bum cream, aqueous cream/soap), Baby clothes, Furniture/accessories (changing mats, baths, prams, cots, camping cots etc), School stationery (pencils, rulers, rubbers, round tip scissors, exam pads etc).
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www.sweetandsoutie.blogspot.com Skiereiland Maatskaplike Dienste email: sdd@telkomsa.net
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This meetings’ theme was ‘with these small hands...’ we can make a difference. They wanted to physically make a difference with their own hands by hand-making something to raise funds for a charity. As all of their members so far are women, often with small kids, they all agreed that they wanted to choose a charity that supports babies or children. “We were inspired by the dada movements ‘exquisite corpse’ idea. Our idea was that as a design collaboration, we make these designer bunnies, the bunnies started off as basic forms and then got passed through the group, and anyone who was keen, added a little something, whether it was a face, tail, ears, scarf, jersey, teddy etc. Each bunny had a very specific personality, and often a whole story of their background. The result is that each unique bunny was finished by at least 3+ creatives, who physically added to the form as well as added to their particular story/ personality.” explains the founders. Each bunny also has a book of life, designed and handmade, where every step of the way the creative process was documented. Each contributor got to write in the book, telling a little story or explaining what and why they added that particular detail. Often adding little illustrations and/or fabric swatches etc. Finally, with the help of ‘Haas Collective’ the bunnies were auctioned off in early May, and the funds raised were used to buy the things on our charity’s wish list. ‘Reggie’ right – our only recycled bunny, started out as a teddy bear from 3 years ago, was recycled into a ‘two-sided’ bunny. Initially a sad pathetic little soul, who was adopted and loved so much that he is now one of our favourites.
‘Edna’left – this 70’s ‘haasvrou’, ready to cook and clean, with her bent ear and frilly apron, makes us all reminisce of our mothers and grandmothers with a tray full of rusks or cookies.