SIXTYNINE DEGREES ISSUE 75 by Fraser Urquhart Media

SIXTYNINE DEGREES WWW.69-DEGREES.CO.UK

THE FESTIVAL EDIT: New Midlands Music London Grammar Vintage Style WIN Festival Tickets

FREE

SPRING/SUMMER 2014

NO. 75

THE FESTIVAL EDIT 12. Streetstyle We look at Nottingham’s best dressed in partnership with INTU Nottingham

18. London Grammar We talk to Dan from London Grammar about their amazing success, studying in Nottingham and their upcoming summer of festival performances.

22. STYLE Festival fashion is where we’re at. How to look stylish without washing for a weekend and the best way to keep groomed and beautiful in a field. 31. ADULt tOYS Summer fashion shot by the team at Smokescreen.

34. Vintage Darling We all love a little bit of vintage! We visit some the regions specialist outfitters on the lookout for all things fabulous.

42. Beats and Treats New music in the Midlands as well as what to download this spring.

46. FESTIVAL GUIDE Our guide to some of the best and some of the more unusual festivals taking place this summer.

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES:

HEAD OFFICE: 69 MAGAZINE LTD, 59 FRIAR LANE, LEICESTER, LE1 5RB INFO@SIXTYNINE-LTD.CO.UK 0116 262 0728 WWW.69-DEGREES.CO.UK

52. SHORTLIST Stuff’s happening; find out what, book your tickets and have a great night. 60. SOCIAL We went out, it was great. Here’s the pics. Did we see you? Maybe you should have come? 66. LAST WORD We talk to Mr LUKE.

CREW.

Next Edition is out: JULY 2014 Call us to be a part of it

MANAGING DIRECTOR Kevin Urquhart Kevin@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07713 740 272

MARKETING Caroline Spence Caroline@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07587 056 969

GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF Jonathan Fraser Jon@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07725 809 654

ADVERTISING SALES Lilith Hunt-Sheppard Lilith@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07975 970 711

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Matt Blackwell Matt@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

HEAD OF FLUFFINESS Teddy Teddy@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk

www.69-degrees.co.uk

COVER IMAGE: SMOKESCREEN

06. UPFRONT Thirty things for Spring Summer- new, nu, noo.

Disclaimer: No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means - electronic, mechanical, photocopy, recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the publishers. Whilst every attempt has been made to ensure accuracy in compiling this publication, the Publisher cannot accept responsibility for any inaccuracies, omissions, breach of copyright or otherwise since compilation. The Publisher cannot be held responsible for any material submitted to the publication, not excluding advertisements. The views expressed within this title are not necessarily the views of the Publisher. Acceptance of advertisements does not imply recommendation by the Publisher. © 69 Magazine Ltd 2014.

PARK LIFE, CITY LIVING WITH AS LITTLE AS £6,250 DEPOSIT!*

Just a mile from the centre of Birmingham, Park Central is within easy reach of all that makes this city such an exciting place to live, yet its generous green spaces and striking modern architecture create an oasis of calm in this urban area.

Park Central | Mason Way Birmingham | B15 2GE Sales Office open daily from 10am–5pm

WWW.PARKCENTRAL.CO.UK

With Birmingham’s business district less than a mile away you could easily walk to work. The cities ever changing, glittering array of shops, restaurants, nightlife, culture and entertainment is just as close.

With Help to Buy you could buy at Park Central with just a 5% deposit and a 75% mortgage. The remainder is funded by an equity loan from the Government that’s interest free for 5 years.*

STUNNING NEW SHOW APARTMENT NOW OPEN!

Last remaining 2 bedroom apartment from £149,500 Just £119,600 with Help to Buy*

1 & 2 bedroom apartments from £125,000 Just £100,000 with Help to Buy*

Call 0121 666 4666 for more information

*Help to Buy is available on the purchase of your primary residence up to the value of £600,000. You must fund a minimum of 80% of the purchase price. The equity loan will need to be repaid when the property is sold or after 25 years i.e. up to 20% of the property’s total sale price. You will also need to ensure you have sufficient funds to pay other fees on completion e.g. legal fees. To be eligible, you must meet the criteria set down by this Government scheme, details of which are available from the Crest Nicholson sales advisor. The amount of deposit required may vary depending on the scheme rules and the lender for the mortgage finance. If you are in any doubt about this scheme please seek independent advice. Crest Nicholson does not provide mortgages and cannot give any financial advice. Photography taken at Park Central. Show home interior. Prices correct at time of going to press. YOUR HOME MAY BE REPOSSESSED IF YOU DO NOT KEEP UP REPAYMENTS ON YOUR MORTGAGE OR ANY DEBT SECURED ON IT.

PARK LIFE, CITY LIVING WITH AS LITTLE AS £6,250 DEPOSIT!*

Park Central | Mason Way Birmingham | B15 2GE Sales Office open daily from 10am–5pm

WWW.PARKCENTRAL.CO.UK

With Help to Buy you could buy at Park Central with just a 5% deposit and a 75% mortgage. The remainder is funded by an equity loan from the Government that’s interest free for 5 years.*

STUNNING NEW SHOW APARTMENT NOW OPEN!

Last remaining 2 bedroom apartment from £149,500 Just £119,600 with Help to Buy*

1 & 2 bedroom apartments from £125,000 Just £100,000 with Help to Buy*

Call 0121 666 4666 for more information

T N O R F P U 6 30

things for Spring Summer

1 New Design Talent Unleashed in Degree Shows Nottingham Trent University will once again exhibit the work of graduating artists and designers in a celebratory festival of design and innovation this summer. As well as showcasing the original, innovative and inspiring work produced by final year students, the festival will this year take on added significance as the university celebrates 170 years of art and design heritage. The main degree shows get under way on 30 May, running until 7 June. The image featured is by Photography student Lolita Cameron of work by Textile Design student Erika Leadbeater, titled Technoshaman. Technoshaman is a â&#x20AC;&#x153;sound suitâ&#x20AC;? made entirely of recycled media selected for its audible quality. It has also been made into a collaborative track and a filmed performance. Details about the shows are available on the Nottingham Trent University website at www.ntu.ac.uk/degree_show_festival www.69-degrees.co.uk

Cook Posh Nosh at Home Michelin starred brummie superstar chef Glynn Purnell has launched a book full of recipes and tales of the afterhours exploits of a celebrity chef. Learn how to cook and party like a wild man. Published by Kyle Books. £19.99

7 Small Speaker, Big Tunes Bye bye tinny mobile speakers, the world’s first thumb-sized Bluetooth speaker, designed for smartphones and tablets, the X-mini WE is small enough to hang off a keyring but still able to deliver a big sound! £29.99 from John Lewis www.x-mini.com

4 Tutus are Cool No longer reserved for little girls and ballet classes, the tutu gets an edgy twist for festivals from Angels Face. Perfect teamed with biker jackets or Hunter wellies, the tutus are available for £58-£65, all in a fabulous range of colours and styles from: www.angels-face.co.uk

5 It’s in the Kiss MAC Patentpolish Lip Pencil is your new magic wand for lips, giving you an instant luscious shine with a single swipe. A unique blend of creamy emollients keep lips soft with an ultra-smooth texture that isn’t heavy or sticky. Available in a dazzling range of 12 new shades that stay bright and true on all skin tones. RRP £14.50

Showcasing Style Crest Nicholson has revealed the first show apartment in the second building at Central Plaza, showcasing why Park Central continues to rise in popularity with young professionals wanting to live in Birmingham. Apartments boast a modern open-plan layout with high quality fixtures and fittings, including designer kitchens by Symphony and bathroom suites by Roca. Prices start at just £120,000. To view the show apartment at Park Central contacting the sales team on 0121 666 4666 or visit the marketing suite @ 61 Mason Way, Birmingham B15 2GE. For more information www.69-degrees.co.uk visit www.parkcentral.co.uk

7 8

Remote Controlled RascaL This nifty little buggy from wireless accessory manufacturer BeeWi is controlled via an app on your smart device and relays live footage back to the driver from a video camera mounted on the front, meaning you’re able to go where no remote controlled car has gone before without even moving. We’ve had hours of fun watching our co-workers’ unimpressed faces as the Scara Bee bursts into the meeting room… again. It can be controlled from up to 50 metres away and the in-built VGA camera allows for some serious mischief making! The Scara Bee is available for £89.99 from www.maplin.co.uk. Compatible with both iOS and Android devices

9 WE LOVE!

Couch Potato Pooch

Scruffs have released a luxurious Regent faux leather sofa for dogs; perfect for those who spend more time pampering their pooch than they do their other half! Prices start at £119.99 and the sofas are available in two sizes from www.petslovescruffs.com

Five Guys, 250,000 Burgers American burger brand Five Guys continues its assault on British culinary consciousness with the opening of a new restaurant – the first in the Midlands – at the iconic Bullring. Five Guys focuses on serving high quality customisable, burgers and fries; the huge choice of toppings means there are 250,000 possible ways to order a Five Guys burger! The restaurant will also include Coca Cola’s Freestyle touch-screen soda machine, offering over 100 flavour varieties. At least you can’t complain about a lack of choice! Five Guys will open this summer on the Middle West Mall @ Bullring, Birmingham

Connected Camping Designed and engineered exclusively in the UK, we’ve fallen in love with POD Interconnecting tents for the amazing new twist they’ve put on an iconic summer staple. POD tents come in two sizes – Maxi and Mini – and are designed to connect together, allowing you to build your very own warren of bespoke accommodation, whilst taking the social element of camping to another level. The best bit is, with no complicated instructions you won’t have to grapple with groundsheets or wrestle ropes, making them the perfect way to party into the night at this year’s festivals! Going to a festival this summer? Head to our Festival Guide on page 51 where we’ve got a POD Mini to give away! Prices for POD tents start at £399. For more information go to www.podtents.com

11 Powder Power

When label.m’s Powder Pink Spray became one of the brand’s fastest selling products to date after launching a few months back the next move was simple; release more! Which is exactly what they’ve done, introducing three new colours into the fray, allowing for temporary ‘Art Attack’ splashes of bold colour to your ultimate accessory – your hair. Available in Powder Pink, Powder Blue, Powder Purple and Powder Red. Now go forth and colour! On sale now from specially appointed label.m salons, TONI&GUY and essensuals salons and online at www.labelm.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Funky Florals

It seems Heston Blumenthal is not content to restrict his unorthodox methods to the kitchen, as revealed with the launch of his signature range of glasses that fuse artisanal techniques with hand-sourced raw materials. Liquid nitrogen is used to freeze and shatter the flowers and plants that go into the frames, giving you a bespoke product that reflects Heston’s creative nature and takes inspiration from the purest pigments of nature. Different.

10 Bye Bye Jet Lag

If you’re jetting off anywhere exotic this summer, make sure you pack some of these beauties in your hand luggage. Containing NADH (no we don’t know either, but it’s approved by NASA), Wild Traveller reduces symptoms of jet leg by providing the body with micronutrients that combat the general tiredness and energy depletion caused by long-haul travel, meaning no matter where you’re heading, you’ll be able to rock up and rock it. £28 for a month’s supply from www.wildnutrition. com

Prices start at £209 including lenses. See more at www.visionexpress.com

SUMMER MUST HAVE!

Dance Into Summer Nothing says summer more than kicking back in the garden with some serious tunes. Enter the fully customisable Ruark Audio R1 MkII with options of wireless speakers (£300) a leather carry case (£40) and a 10hour battery pack (£50), making it great for outdoor listening and perfect for picnics and parties! Ruark Audio R1 MkII £180 from Around Sound Leicester and Audio Affair Birmingham

Derby Does Al Fresco With the weather starting to promise better things we’re absolutely itching to get outside, and the first place on our hitlist is the newly refurbished Pitcher & Piano in Derby! Rumours of their luscious roof terrace have got us daydreaming about lazy afternoons in the sun spent sipping crisp fruit ciders and sampling hand-crafted cocktails, perhaps even partaking in a grazing board of flatbread from their newly launched food menu. We had a sneaky peek before the menu went live in early May and were seriously impressed by the fresh summerinfused ingredients that go into each home-made dish. Come 5pm, you’ll know exactly where to find us! Pitcher & Piano Derby is @ 19 – 20 Friargate, Derby, DE1 1BX. Tel: 01332 206 790 www. pitcherandpiano.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Slurp Yourself Slim Is it a juicer? Is it a blender? No, it’s an extractor! Whereas the aforementioned close relatives of the Nutribullet are often accused of stripping ingredients of their healthiest qualities, the new product taking the health and fitness market by storm actually breaks down its contents to their most nutritious, most absorptive state. The Nutribullet is £99.95 from Selfridges www.selfridges.com

World Cup fever is set to descend once more when the month-long tournament kicks off on 12 June and Seven Restaurant in Derby will be celebrating the summer of sport, regardless of whether England go out on penalties or not. Seven have bottled a bit of the Brazilian spirit and released it on their new range of cocktails, designed to get everyone in the carnival mood. The restaurant will also have live screenings of all games, along with private football packages available for booking, giving you access to a private screen in one of their two secluded dining rooms and personal waiter or waitress.

Seven Restaurant is @ Wheelwright Way, Pride Park, Derby, DE24 8SQ. Tel: 01332 332 277 www.sevenrestaurant. co.uk

MUST TRY!

World Cup Carnival

Spring Summer Staples:

Apple & Elderflower Martini We love a good cocktail and this one, designed by the mixologists at 34 Windsor St, has certianly caught our eye, sending our sweet tooth into overdrive.

BROWNS Lingerie & Beachwear

Equipment Boston Glass and Shaker Strainer Martini Glass Ingredients 12.5ml Zubrowka bison grass vodka 12.5ml Absolut Vodka 25ml Sauvignon Blanc 25ml Apple juice 4 lemon wedges 20ml Elderflower cordial 12.5ml Gomme (sugar syrup) Cubed ice

Lingerie Swimwear 8-20 Bikinis Kaftans Cover Ups Beach Dresses Hosiery Nightwear

Recipe • Chill the Martini Glass with ice • Add all ingredients to the Boston glass with the ice last • Cap the shaker and shake vigorously for 2-3 seconds • Strain the mix into the chilled Martini glass Learn more at your own fun private Cocktail Master Class, available at the Burbage-based restaurant and cocktail lounge. Contact bar manager Nathan to arrange your event on 01455 234342 or visit www.34windsorst.com

T: 0116 2707188 35 Francis Street

Stoneygate Leicester LE2 2BE

www.BrownsLingerie.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

Nottingham’s Got Style

StreetStyle

intu Broadmarsh and intu Victoria Centre joined forces recently in their search for a national Style Hero. SIXTYNINE Degrees had their style snappers out in force over three weekends, scouring both Shopping Centres, as well as Nottingham’s streets for suitably chic candidates who would be fit to represent the city against other centres from around the country - and as you can see, Nottingham folk are a stylish bunch! After an extensive Facebook poll, it was Leanne George who emerged top of the shoppers and will go through to carry Nottingham’s torch in the national competition; you go girl! The overall winner was set to be announced on the 19th May - check out who won on the intu Broadmarsh and Victoria Centre Facebook pages: Facebook.com/intubroadmarsh and Facebook.com/intuvictoriacentre

REGIONAL WINNER! Leanne

Style Icon? Rihanna

What influences your style? Music videos, blogs and mannequins

What are you wearing?

IMAGES BY JAMES TOOK

Cropped jeans and white shirt – Superdry, black cut out boots – Topshop, leather jacket and leather tassle bag – H&M

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Kyle

Dominic

Laura

Style Icon: Me

Style Icon: Me, Myself & I

Style Icon: Olivia Palermo

13 Lisa

Matt

Selina

Steff

Style Icon: Victoria Beckham

Style Icon: Olly Murs

Style Icon: Rihanna

Style Icon: Alexa Chung

Tom

Rory

Tyra

Tom

Style Icon: William Smith

Style Icon: Leon Scott

Style Icon: Louisa Cousin

Style Icon: Topman

Layla

James

Hannah

Astrat-Anais

Style Icon: Nicole Scherzinger

Style Icon: Grunge

Style Icon: Alexa Chung

Style Icon:Rosie

Huntington-Whiteley

STREETSTYLE IN ASSOCIATION WITH INTU BROADMARSH AND INTU VICTORIA CENTRE www.69-degrees.co.uk

May The Onesie Be With You The warmer weather may be with us but there is always a time and a place for a good old onesie. Ever wanted to be a character in Star Wars when you were younger? Now you can! Or at least you can pretend you are with this officially licesensed range of comfortable get ups. These are the onesies you are looking for. Star Wars Onesies £39.95 from Red5 www.red5.co.uk

22 Pick Your Poison

Experiment on yourself with this crazy set of shot glasses and you never know, you could end up improving the chemistry between your friends! Each set of four glasses comes with minipippettes for stirring so grab the food colouring and see what concoctions you can cook up!

24 Laboratory Shot Glasses £16.95 from www.thegiftoasis.com

Rock up, Rock Out

For all you musical folk out there the Pickmaster Plectrum Punch means you’ll never get caught without a plectrum again! Ingeniously simple, the Pickmaster works in exactly the same way as a standard hole punch and is a great way to recycle unwanted credit and gift cards, giving you an instant plecturm. Pickmaster Plectrum Punch £19.95 from www.prezzybox.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Grill-iant!

We’re big fans of funky barbecues and this one may just take the breadbun. With plenty of cooking space the Portable Notebook BBQ Grill is light enough to take just about anywhere, making it perfect for festivals or any spontaneous outings you may have in the pipeline. Re-ignite your passion for barbied bangers and burgers! Portable Notebook BBQ Grill £24.95 from www.firebox.com

Cat-Nav! Let your furry loved ones roam as freely as God intended with the G-Paws Pet GPS. The ultra lightweight weatherproof tracker easily attaches to any collar and can be used for eight hours continuously and automatically powers down after five minutes of no movement. The G-Paws website has been set up as a social networking platform where you can create a profile for your pet and upload their journeys!

23 G-Paws Pet GPS £49.95 from Red5 www.red5.co.uk

Smoked Goodness After opening initially as a pop-up restaurant, The Smokehouse is set to become a permanent fixture above the O Bar in Braunstone Gate. With dishes such as Fourteen-hour Pulled Pork, the restaurant brings the mouth-watering concept of Southern-American inspired smoked food to Leicester, all cooked on an authentic grill imported from the States. Find them on Facebook:THE SMOKEHOUSE

Emma Brown Hair salon, based in the heart of Leicester offers a premium service at affordable prices

MAKE A RESERVATION TODAY

(including NUS student discount). We have award-winning stylists trained in the latest trends, cutting

0116 270 4374

techniques and colouring skills in order to help you create a new image or simply give you a refresh. Our busy Clarendon Park salon has a warm and friendly atmosphere, which makes every visit a relaxing

salon@emmabrownhair.co.uk emmabrownhair.co.uk

and memorable experience. We offer free consultations, which are totally without obligation and

EMMA BROWN HAIR

an unrivalled reputation for innovation, quality and the very best in hair care and advice.

140 Clarendon Park Road Leicester LE2 3AE (Opposite the library)

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Trippy Tees

Styled on the glory days of 60s festival chic, this range of clothing uses Augmented Reality to create wild and wonderful effects when viewed using the free AppDappa app. If what you’re drinking doesn’t do it for you, these t-shirts are bound to take you on a trip! AppDappa clothing starts at £19.99 and is available from www.appdappa.com

GEMMA CAIRNEY

Moving in the Dark After flinging opening its glamorous doors in Manchester, The Tia Maria Dark Room hits Nottingham on 4-5 July. The unique events, which have been curated by radio and TV personality Gemma Cairney, will be a celebration of all the best bits of a girls’ night out, with complimentary manicures from WAH Nails, hair styling from Toni & Guy and Tia Maria mixology lessons, all set to a soundtrack of upbeat dance floor fillers mixed with live performances from local singer songwriters. The venue is currently secret but will be announced soon, search Tia Maria Drink on Facebook to keep updated. WIN! We’ve got a Tia Maria, Toni & Guy and WAH Nails goody bag to give away. Visit www.69-degrees.co.uk to enter!

28 Tank It

Stuck for a Father’s Day idea? Not anymore. Put him in a 17 and a half tonne tank just watch the smile creep across his face as he is transformed into a vital link in an elite tank crew, taught how to drive the tank and operate the paintball cannon fitted to the turret. Amourgeddon is located at Southfields Farm, Husbands Bosworth and offers full-scale Tank Paintball battles for all, as well as military vehicle driving, hovercraft experiences, quad safaris and whole host of other things! Throw in a top-notch military museum and we think we’ve uncovered one of Leicestershire’s sparkliest hidden gems. To see the full range of activities on offer go to www.armourgeddon.co.uk

De Stress and Mositurise This sumptuous all over moisturiser is the latest addition to Aveda’s bodycare collection. Stress-Fix™ Body Creme features a proven stress relieving aroma enveloped in intense hydrators that lavish and help protect even the most dehydrated skin for a full 24 hours. Available from £36 from Aveda salons across the Midlands.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

30 Soccer Rally 2 Are you ready to be a champion? The original and best Car Soccer game for your smart phone is back and better than ever. Drive to glory with your chosen Country as you smash, shoot and score your way through the Soccer Rally Euro Tournament in completely revamped cars which are super realistic to manoeuvre- you can even hear and feel gear changes! Available from iTunes.

THIS FEELING,

FROM £599 A MONTH.*

JAGUAR F-TYPE COUPÉ. Even the price of the F-TYPE Coupé has the power to raise your heartbeat. Now imagine how you’ll feel experiencing these class leading features as standard every single day… • A choice of 340PS and 380PS V6 and 550PS V8 engines, all featuring a twin vortex supercharger for instantaneous performance. • 8" touchscreen navigation system with route guidance • Xenon headlamps with signature lights • Quickshift 8-speed automatic transmission with gear shift paddles Contact us today to book your test drive. STURGESS JAGUAR 445 NARBOROUGH ROAD, LEICESTER LE3 2RE WWW.STURGESS.LEICESTER.JAGUAR.CO.UK 0116 416 1437

*PLUS DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT. REPRESENTATIVE EXAMPLE On the Road Price Customer Deposit Total Amount of Credit

£51,250 £11,565 £39,685

Credit Facility Fee (included in final payment) £285 Purchase Fee (included in final payment) 36 Monthly Payments Final Payment

£25,920

Total Amount Payable

£59,049

Duration of Agreement (Months)

HOW ALIVE ARE YOU?

Representative 7.9% APR available on new Jaguar F-TYPE Coupé registered between 1st April and 30th June 2014 at participating dealers only. We may receive commission or other benefits for introducing you to Jaguar Financial Services. With Jaguar Privilege Personal Contract Purchase you have the option at the end of the agreement to: (1) subject to the vehicle being in good condition, return the vehicle and not pay the Final Payment (if the vehicle has exceeded the allowed mileage a charge for excess mileage will apply – in this example 14p per mile for any excess mileage up to 4,999 miles and 28p per mile for any excess mileage exceeding 4,999 miles). (2) pay the Final Payment to own the vehicle or (3) part exchange the vehicle subject to settlement of your existing finance agreement; new finance agreements are subject to status. Representative example is based upon an annual mileage of 10,000 miles. Finance is subject to status and only available to applicants aged 18 and over resident in Mainland UK and N.Ireland. Indemnities may be required. This finance offer is available from Black Horse Limited trading as Jaguar Financial Services, St William House, Tresillian Terrace, Cardiff, CF10 5BH.

£10 £599

Representative APR

7.9% APR

Interest Rate (Fixed)

7.41%

Official fuel economy figures for the Jaguar F-TYPE range in mpg (l/100km): (l/100km): Urban 17.8-22.8 (15.9-12.4); Extra Urban 34.0-42.2 (8.3-6.7); Combined 25.5-32.1 (11.1-8.8). CO2 Emissions 259-205 g/km. The figures provided are as a result of official manufacturer’s tests in accordance with EU legislation. A vehicle’s actual fuel consumption may differ from that achieved in such tests and these figures are for comparative purposes only.

Mind Your 18

Grammar.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Since graduating from Nottingham University Hannah Reid, Dan Rothman and Dominic ‘Dot’ Major, the trio that make up London Grammar have been very busy indeed. Their debut record went straight into the UK Albums Chart at number two and with a summer diary that reads like every band’s Festival Wishlist (including a headline slot in their adopted second home), it’s safe to say that London Grammar’s ethereal and haunting melodies have struck somewhat of a chord with people the world over. Matt Blackwell caught up with guitarist Dan in a rare moment of down time to take stock of his immensely successful fledgling musical career and find out where it all went so right.

nervous because we want to achieve as much as we did with the first album. I don’t doubt that it will sound pretty different, knowing us it will probably be ridiculous and experimental or something! [Laughs] A lot of focus has been put on your music’s ability to reach people on an emotional level through the soul-searching nature of Hannah’s lyrics. Was this a deliberate approach and what inspires your songs, typically?

It’s been a bit of a whirlwind 18 months for you guys, since posting ‘Hey Now’ anonymously you’ve gone from playing underground shows to international performances. Has the musical learning curve been a steep one?

To be honest with you, it was quite a natural thing that just happened. When we began making the record, we realised over time that the songs that were more sad were much better suited to our sound and to Hannah’s voice in particular. Coupled with Hannah’s lyricism it became darker and darker, but it was a really natural process and we felt that it was the right music to be making. Then we started to look for inspiration from other bands who’ve achieved that same kind of darkness, bands like Massive Attack or Talk Talk. We’re not sad people or anything – in fact people are often surprised by how upbeat we are – but we just felt that that was the right noise to be making at the time.

I reckon it’s been about as steep as they come! [Laughs] We went from playing our very first show to spending two years in the studio making a record. It’s happened pretty fast considering we were all completely inexperienced. The learning curve has been very steep but incredibly enjoyable.

The three of you met and formed in Nottingham, do you think this has helped shape London Grammar as a band? It must be very different to, let’s say, London? Has it helped or hindered do you think?

What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learnt do you think? That’s a good question. I think probably understanding how your band works and how the other people in the band function. It’s important to approach things in a way that’s going to get the best out of everybody, because if you don’t consider your band member’s thoughts or feelings it can be damaging and cause arguments. We never really argue that much, but it can really test you as people being on the road for so long. Thinking back, was there a catalyst point where it all began to change and did this affect your university studies? We got spotted by a record company whilst we were playing a gig in London and our lives changed massively from that point. Hannah and I were finishing our degrees at the time but Dot still had another year. We were struggling through our exams, whilst in the back of our minds we were thinking about record companies and managers and stuff like that. Dot made the record with us while he was doing his degree, so he was affected more in some ways. He managed to finish his degree and obviously it all turned out well in the end, but he had to split his time a lot. He’s always been good at multitasking! Is the band’s musical style something that is still developing, or are you happy with everything how it is right now? In terms of the first record, we developed to a point but then we took it on the road and you can’t really go any further. I think coming back and even just thinking about another record you can tell that we’ve all developed in terms of taste, aspirations and thoughts of what we want do with the next album. I think that’s a natural thing because every band develops over time. None of us have ever been in a position where we have to make a second record and obviously we’re

I think it’s definitely helped; ultimately I wouldn’t have met my band had it not been for Nottingham. We were going into the unknown and didn’t really know anything in terms of the local music scene, but were able to find pubs and bars to play in Nottingham and everyone was always very welcoming to us there. I think it almost made us work harder as a band if anything. I chose Nottingham because I knew I could get a good degree whilst playing music at the same time. I think the city deserves a big credit for giving students the kind of lifestyle it does. Nottingham is enjoying somewhat of a musical renaissance at the minute, with Jake Bugg, Saint Raymond, Kagoule and Indiana all on the Radio 1 playlist. Is there a strong support network for musicians in the city? It’s funny actually, I was talking to Saint Raymond yesterday and I had no idea that he was from Nottingham until he mentioned that he’s a Notts county fan! I guess in a sense the city does [have a strong support network] and it was developing when we were coming through. We would play in and around the city and you could sort of sense that Nottingham was gearing up with music. ‘Strong’ has been recently nominated for ‘Best Song Musically and Lyrically’ at the Ivor Novello Awards. What is your creative process and do you all have an equal input? It changes really; sometimes it’s more equal than others. ‘Strong’ was quite collaborative and we tend to write the music together as a three and then Hannah will go off to work on her top line and her lyrics. That’s the most normal process but on some occasions we may have more fully formed ideas that come out in different places. It’s amazing that it got nominated though. The band’s remixes often perform very well; I’m thinking of The Freemasons mix of ‘Nightcall’ in

www.69-degrees.co.uk

“The learning curve has been very steep but incredibly enjoyable.”

particular here. How important is it getting the right remixers on board and do you get involved in that decision process? It’s very important and it has been from an early stage. We have a lot of remixes and they permeate quite strongly sometimes; fans can have a mixed perception but ultimately the point of a remix is not to please people, it’s to find a new audience. You remix your music to carry the track into other areas and so it’s incredibly important and we’ve always had a massive say in what we like or don’t like. Do you ever listen to fan mixes and mashups that people post on Soundcloud and other platforms? I do! In fact the remix that became the official mix of ‘Hey Now’ was done by a guy called Arty. He’s an established DJ but it was a bootleg mix that he’d done; he put it online and it garnered a lot of attention through Above & Beyond [British trace group] who were playing it at huge concerts around the world. We then realised how massive a remix it was and we made sure it was then going to be the official mix. It took on a life of its own and was getting played a lot on Radio 1 and other stations around the country. Often a bootleg can be the most impressive mix because they stay quite true to the original song in some sense. Your debut album went straight in at number 2 in the UK album chart, what’s

www.69-degrees.co.uk

it been like translating that into live performances for your tour? It was difficult at first. It was a lot of work because we had to figure out how to bring it all together and play all these different parts in a live setting. It was quite taxing at the time but fortunately we developed a method that worked really well and we’ve stuck with that ever since. You’ll be playing at festivals all over the world this summer, are there any particular highlights that you’re looking forward to?

Are you able to give us any early hints about what the second album may sound like? Have you got any ideas bouncing around? I’d love to but it’s really, really early days. I think as far as we’re concerned the only the thing we’ve really discussed is making a record that’s a bit more dynamic than the last one. We’ll be trying to make it louder in places but then quieter in others so that it’s more contrasting and less consistent in terms of the dynamic. Beyond that I don’t really have any idea what to expect.

Glastonbury is an amazing festival that every band earmarks out as the one to play. We’re also headlining Wilderness, which will be a big deal for us. In fact we’re actually headlining a brand new festival in Nottingham called No Tomorrow before then; that will be interesting because we’ve never really headlined a show, so it’ll be a test.

Any collaborations in the pipeline?

After your long and busy summer will you guys be taking a bit of a break or is it straight back into the studio to work on the second album?

Where do you see yourselves going in the future, do you have any long-term aims?

We’ve got a bit of touring to do in Europe and America and then after that I think we’ll try and have a break over Christmas to gather up our thoughts and start writing some music, either individually or together. Once we get to the New Year, that’ll be the time we’ll start working in the studio.

There are some that I can’t really speak about! The problem is finding the time to do them really. I think we can say publicly that we’d like to do some work with a producer called Jon Hopkins. There are a few others but I don’t know whether they’re going to happen or not.

Just existing really and you know, making more music!

London Grammar will headline No Tomorrow on 7 June

BEAUTY ESSENTIALS

L’OCCITANE AT

DON’T MISS BERT & GERT’S VINTAGE CRAFT MARKETS EVERY LAST FRIDAY AND SATURDAY OF THE MONTH!

PLUS CHAR WALLAH EVANS.H&M.LAURA ASHLEY M&S.MOSS.PHB AND A 700 SEAT FOOD LOFT

So you’ve booked your tickets, bought your tent and worked out how many beer tokens you’re going to need to last the full weekend; now what about your wardrobe? Yes you may end up covered in mud and smelling like an unemptied bin, but you can’t get tagged or tumblr’d if you’re not in your best togs can you?

SIXTYNINE degrees Fashion Editor Sy Ann Holden has put together the perfect backpack for boys and girls who like to play. Enjoy!

Style.

THE FESTIVAL EDIT

www.69-degrees.co.uk

23 2

GUYS

7 6 2

ACCESS’ORIES ALL AREAS

Practical and stylish, if the sun shines down you’ll need a hat and shades to stay out all day and party- statement accessories are also a killer way to make it look like you’ve changed your outfit so pack wisely and prepare to be worshipped!

GIRLS 5

9 8 10

6 10

7 GUYS: 1. Eye Respect x Oliver Spencer Bob Glasses-brown crystal, Atoo Menswear £185. 2. Blink Time Watches, Red5 £6.95. 3. #5 cap, Harvey Nichols £35. 4. 5 Panel Cap in Floral with $ICK Patch, ASOS £14. 5. Yellow Wayfarer Sunglasses, Burton £12. 6. Feather Cap, Primark £4. 7. iPhone cover, Paperchase £12. 8. Bracelets, H&M £3.99. 9. Vivienne Westwood Belt Ring, Cruise £135. 10. Rain Poncho, thegiftoasis £34.99. GIRLS: 1. Floral Paradise Print Fan, Accessorize £5.00. 2. Heart Lens Flower Sunglasses, Primark £3.00. 3. Ray Ban Wayfarer Sunglasses, Cruise £120. 4. Sunglasses,Topshop £16. 5. Alexander McQueen Classic Skull Print Silk Scarf, Cruise £165. 6. Henry Holland Umbrella, Debenhams £18. 7. Bibi Bijoux Snake & Crystal Wrap Bracelet, Cruise £115. 8. Wire Looped Necklace with Crystals, Kirsty Ward, www.youngbritishdesigners.com, £295. 9. Marc by Marc Jacobs friendship bracelet, Harvey Nichols £40. 10. Konplott Earrings, £37.50 www.69-degrees.co.uk

3 4

5 2

1 7

GIRLS 2

CO-ORDS 4

GUYS

Be sure to work this season’s hot ‘Co-Ord’ trend to your advantage and save on vital packing space. Mix or match prints for maximum effect; co-ords work hard for your wardrobe and can be integrated with your festival favourites.

7 9 6 5

9 10

GIRLS: 1. Washed black denim skirtwith chiffon panels by Rejina Pyo; £245 www.youngbritishdesigners.com. 2. Top, H&M £24.99 3. Shorts, H&M £24.99. 4. Gucci Art Nouveau Silk Shirt, Cruise £740. 5. White Fray Denim Cycling Shorts, Topshop £32.00. 6. Wildfox Leopard T-Shirt, Cruise £67. 7. Wildfox sweatshirt, Cruise £110. 8. Markus Lupfer smacker print sweatshirt, Harvey Nichols £155. 9. Juicy Couture embellished jersey pants, Harvey Nichols £175. 10. Mexican Top, TOPSHOP £56.00. GUYS: 1. Markus Lupfer shorts, Harvey Nichols £250. 2. Adidas Originals x Jeremy Scott Shorts Flowers, Atoo Menswear, £60. 3. Camo Shirt, Superdry £54.99. 4. Camo Shorts, Superdry £44.99. 5. Dsquared2 sweatshirt, Harvey Nichols £210. 6. Tye Dye T £18, shorts £16 Topman. 7. Brian Lichtenberg T-shirt, Harvey Nichols £65. 8. Tshirt, Zara. 9. Joggers, Zara.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

What a year! It’s hard to believe that 12 months ago salon owner and stylist Emma Brown was celebrating the celebrity launch. Since then, with fiancé Dennis and French Bulldog Pierre by her side, Emma has established herself as one of the Midlands’ leading hair salons bringing a London experience to Leicester in terms of style, technique and customer service. “We really do want people to walk out of the salon not only feeling and looking a million dollars, but to be styled and equipped to stay looking fabulous for up to six weeks. ‘Sustainable Style’ is our aim” says Emma as she talks to us at her Clarendon Park salon.

26 BEAUTY SURVIVAL KIT

Following an illustrious career managing one of the city’s leading salons, Emma returned to her roots in Clarendon Park to use the experience she’s gained to create a salon built on three key principles:

CITY SALON CELEBRATES FIRST BIRTHDAY WITH EXCITING EXPANSION

Late nights, communal washing and all-weather weekends? Let’s face it, the festival season does little for your beauty regime. Whether it’s Glyndebourne or Glastonbury, ensure you look your party best with hard-working essentials that scrub, cleanse and put some colour back in your cheeks. HELEN GOUGH, BEAUTY MANAGER AT HARVEY NICHOLS BIRMINGHAM, shares her makeup bag must-haves. From deep-cleaning wipes and dry shampoo to lip balms and the tastiest toothpaste, don’t leave home without these little luxury life-savers!

All products featured are available from Beyond Beauty and Space.NK Apothecary at Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

1. The Elite Experience: to bring a sense of affordable luxury and a London salon experience to the Midlands in terms of style, technique and customer service, whilst retaining a regional price. 2. Sustainable Style: providing in-depth personal consultations that address the hair and the lifestyle needs of each client, so they leave with the best, and most appropriate style, for them to maintain on a long term basis. 3. Top Training: all members of Emma’s staff are highly trained in the latest cutting and colouring techniques and strive to be at the very pinnacle of their profession. The style of the salon was key in creating the ’Elite Experience’ and this is where fiancé Dennis really came into his own, transforming a ramshackle derelict shop into a stylish salon that has its own sense of ‘sustainable style.’ The look is clean and welcoming in equal parts and with a relaxed atmosphere that encourages conversation, Emma’s client list has grown over the year to read like a who’s who of the city. The creation of a sustainable style is definitely a major factor in the salon’s first year of success, “we work hard to ensure people are equipped to maintain their style and ensure that both cut and colour grow out in the right way. There’s nothing worse than when you start spotting problems a week after a haircut with the shape or how the colours are blending; it’s frustrating and so disappointing!” says Emma.

1: Dr Nick Lowe menthol facial scrub, £13. 2: Elemis Pro-Radiance Illuminating Flash Balm, £33. 3: EOS organic lip balm in Lemon Drop, £7.50. 4: Marvis ginger mint toothpaste, £6. 5: Moroccanoil hand cream, £20. 6: NARS lip gloss, £18.50. 7: Ole Henriksen Pick Me Up Face Mist, £23.50. 8: Ole Henriksen Truth To Go cleansing wipes, £13.50. 9: Show Beauty dry shampoo, £30. 10: This Works In Transit cleansing pads, £17. 11: Benefit Posie Tint, £24.50. 12: GHD Straight & Smooth spray, £14.50. www.69-degrees.co.uk

Emma’s approach to hair is proving so popular that she’s had to accelerate her business plan and is set to bring forward an extension of the salon that will see it double in size. “We’re working at full capacity at the moment – with a waiting list – so I can’t wait for more space and to see what the future has to offer” she says with a boundless enthusiasm, which prompts a reminder not to cut any corners in the rush. “Oh no,” says Emma, “we don’t do that here. We just cut hair, and we do it well.” Emma Brown Hair is at 140 Clarendon Park Road, Leicester. LE2 3AE. Tel 0116 270 4374 www.emmabrownhair.co.uk

www.cruisefashion.com

AVAILABLE IN OUR LEICESTER STORE CRUISE LEICESTER 12/14 EAST GATES, LEICESTER, LE1 4FB 08433 325 388

GUYS 7 6

FEST FOOT FORWARD Choose your footwear carefully – you’re gonna be on your feet a long time so comfort is key – that doesn’t mean you should sacrifice style though… 1

GIRLS

5 4

GUYS: 1. Kris Van Assche suede hi-tops, Harvey Nichols £465. 2. Saint Laurent Blood Luster Skate Shoes, Cruise £260. 3. Bucketfeet trainer, Tinfish Shoes £44.99. 4. Mocks Slip on, TinFish Shoes £45. 5. Bernard Slip on, Office £59.99. 6. Givenchy rose print sandals, Harvey Nichols £400 (Click & Collect). 7. Converse 70s Chuck Taylor All Stars, £70. GIRLS: 1. Hunter Shoreditch wellies, Harvey Nichols £95. 2. Elgin Ditsy Ankle Wellington Boot, Cath Kidston £35. 3. Elron Black Ankle Boots, Atlanta Weller, www.youngbritishdesigners.com, £145.00. 4. Mel pop special pump, Tinfish shoes £35. 5. Michael Kors Boerum Studded Trainers, Cruise £130. 6. Fernando Chuncky Sandal £50 Topshop. 7. Saint Laurent Croc Effect Trainers, Cruise £305.

DESERT ISLAND WISH LIST Private Shopper at Harvey Nichols, JOHN PAUL MCGUIRK is spoilt for choice when it comes to the latest men’s grooming must-haves. But if he was stuck on a desert island with just four products to his name, what would they be? www.69-degrees.co.uk

ACQUA DI PARMA COLONIA INTENSA AFTER SHAVE BALM, £39: This luxurious balm is designed to hydrate and minimise irritation after shaving. Lightly perfumed, skin is left scented with the delicate fragrance of the label’s signature Colonia Intensa scent. It’s also jam-packed with natural ingredients, including aloe vera gel, grapevine extract, almond oil and wheatgerm.

DR JACKSON’S COCONUT MELT BALM, £10: With only 100% organic coconut oil, this little pot of magic is solid at room temperature but melts to the touch. It is ideal as an all-over everything cream, but is a marvel for soothing dry lips. Don’t get stranded without it!

£130 - HANS @ LIQUOR STORE

PACK’TICALITIES

It’s not just a rucksack that’s required; think somewhere for wallet, keys, purse, lippy – everything you don’t want to leave in your tent to get pee’d on. Practical doesn’t have to mean plain – why not stand out from the crowd with a statement satchel?

GUYS

£25 - BURTON £59 - DRIFTER @ CRUISE

£39.95 - RED5

£190 - KENZO @ HARVEY NICHOLS

£495 - MCM @ HARVEY NICHOLS

£15 - MATALAN

GIRLS

£29 - RED HERRING @ DEBENHAMS

£36 - CATH KIDSTON £25 - ACCESSORIZE

£29 - ACCESSORIZE

£25 - MARISOTA £375 - KATE SHERIDAN @ YOUNG BRITISH DESIGNERS

£55 - KATE SHERIDAN @ YOUNG BRITISH DESIGNERS

£315 - MICHAEL KORS @ CRUISE

ELEMIS TIME DEFENCE EYE REVIVER, £39: The skin around your eyes is way more sensitive than the skin on the rest of your face so you need an eye cream which is effective but does not overload. This lightweight anti-ager is clinically proven to reduce the depth of wrinkles and increase hydration, great after sun exposure.

LAB SERIES BB TINTED MOISTURISER, £35: Already a favourite of the fairer sex, BB creams just about do everything .. camouflage imperfections, SPF protect, hydrate, improve tone and boost radiance. This summer essential also adds a little colour to your cheeks.

All items featured are available from Harvey Nichols Birmingham.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

TAKE COVER

Come Rain or Shine these tactical fashion moves will keep you dry, comfortable and focused on the festivities.

GIRLS 2

3 4

1. Barbour waxed jacket, Harvey Nichols £200 2. Pure Silk Devore Jacket Disorder Boutique, £69.99. 3. Pinko Mayor Reversible Tropical Parka, Cruise £336 4. Debenhams, H by Henry Holland Bomber Jacket £45. 5. Kissy Jacket, Monsoon £79. 6. Lemon Yellow Washable Waxed Batwing Jacket, Kate Sheridan, www.youngbritishdesigners. com, £245.00

4 3 1

1. Short Coach Jacket NY Giants, Majestic Select, Liquor Store, £135. 2. Festival Macs from, River Island £20. 3. Moncler quilted gilet, Harvey Nichols £445. 4. Gant Rugger Chambray Varsity Blue, Atoo Menswear, £150. 5. Stone Island Jacket, Cruise £295. 6. Moncler camo-timmed shell jacket, Harvey Nichols £715. 7. Emporio Armani Jacket, Cruise £120.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

GUYS 7

Monique Lee Millinery Roof Wedding Hat www. moniqueleemillinery.com £460, M Missoni Animal jacquard cotton blend dress £470.00, Harvey Nichols Birmingham, Christian louboutin marinere 100 multicolour strap bootie £875, Harvey Nichols, Birmingham, Mulberry lily pink shoulder bag £750, Harvey Nichols Birmingham

Art Direction/Production: SmokeShow Images www.cargocollective.com/ smokeshowimages Photography & Design: Ian Davies www.iandaviesphoto.com Fashion Styling: Sy-Anne Taylor www.bysy.co.uk Fashion Styling Assistant: Akansha Seth MUA/Hair Styling: Arman Milind www.armanmilind.com Models from Alan Sharman Agency www.alansharmanagency.com - Luke Grimley, Ryan Noble, Alex Kelly, Chelsea Thorpe Shot at www.boxxed.co.uk

ADULT

S Y TO

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Alex: Hughes Jennifer Jade graduate collection - Coventry university www.hughesjenniferjade.com, Lolita Black & White Pumps by Joanne Stoker £375.00 available at www.youngbritishdesigners.com, Luke: KTZ Jewel Embroidered Patch Shorts in Black £230.00 available from Autograph Menswear, Birmingham, Paradis Lunaire Bomber Jacket in White £532.00 available from Autograph Menswear, Birmingham, Giuseppe Zanotti metallic silver and gold straps £695 available at Harvey Nichols, Birmingham, Alex David Lee graduate collection - Coventry University Visor Hughes Jennifer Jade, Christian louboutin paralili 100 sling back PVC detail available at Harvey Nichols, Birmingham

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Luke: Paradis Python Leather Bomber Jacket in Silver £665.00 available from Autograph Menswear, Birmingham, Sons of Heroes Leather Trousers £260.00 available from Autograph Menswear, Birmingham, Giuseppe zanotti black high top croc gold strap £455 available at Harvey Nichols, Birmingham, Alex: Hughes Jennifer Jade graduate collection Coventry university www.hughesjenniferjade.com,Ty Court Shoe by FURY in Natural Python £375.00 available at www.youngbritishdesigners.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

www.69-degrees.co.uk Clements & Church Camouflage Print Suit Blue/Grey £1699.95, Clements & Church, White Shirt £139.95, The Hillside Tie, Plum Flower Blue £69.00 available at a too menswear, Birmingham.

Monique Lee Millinery Formula Fun Hat - www.moniqueleemillinery.com £430, Fazane Malik ‘Kay’ Purple/Blue silk satin fitted shift dress £169.00 - www.fazanemalik.co.uk, (15% discount for 69 readers quote ‘SS1415%’ at checkout to redeem the discount), Jewellery - Sara Preisler 2014 ‘Equator collection’ - Earrings £82.00, Necklace £222.00

www.69-degrees.co.uk

VERY V I N TA G E It’s official: vintage-mania has well and truly swept the nation. Which is absolutely fine by us because it’s amazing – full stop. Moving away from the homogeneous high street allows you the chance to express your own unique style and image like never before and the best thing is, getting the vintage feel doesn’t need to stop at clothes! As we embrace the past, new shops are springing up all over the Midlands offering everything from smokes to hairstyles. Check out these local gems we done gone found and believe us when we say that old is the new new!

FLAPPERS & GENTLEMEN Putting an edge to a classic Vintage image, cutting edge salon Flappers & Gentlemen has created its own take on Flapper style in its latest photoshoot. Using an androgynous blocky style, Creative Director Blake Edwards has created an image that brings the spirit of the Flapper bang up to date “It’s all about attitude. The original Flappers were boundary breakers – they changed the way women dressed forever by dressing for their own style rather than adhering to what society expected, and this is very much at the heart of the Flappers & Gentlemen philosophy.” Flappers & Gentlemen will be conducting a photoshoot every six weeks with images that challenge modern perceptions of beauty.Photography by Brett Heathcote. For more information contact Flappers & Gentlemen, St Martin’s Square, to book an appointment call 0116 2629840, visit www.flappersandgentlemen.co.uk, or join them on Facebook , Twitter @f_and_g_hair or Instagram.

PINK PIGEON & DOLLYMIX VINTAGE Head down Leicester’s Cank Street and you’ll be treated to not one, but two great vintage shops, all in the same building! Dollymix Vintage offers two floors of men’s and women’s clothing dating right back to the 1900s, with a eclectic sprinkling of taxidermy, homewares, accessories and vintage bikes thrown in for good measure. Nestled below Dollymix is Pink Pigeon, one of the best places in the city to pick up retro and vintage clothing from 1950s – 1990s. Both are independently owned and all items are handpicked, sourced internationally as well as here at home in the UK. Pink Pigeon is @ 17a Cank Street, Leicester, LE1 5GX www.pinkpigeonvintage.com www.dollymixvintage.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

SHEENA HOLLAND

Situated in Old Blacksmith’s yard at the heart of Derby’s Cathedral Quarter, Sheena Holland specialises in vintage wedding headbands, jewellery and fashion. As the original creator of the vintage Feather Side Tiara, Sheena can boast the impressive accolade of a client list that includes singers Pink and Lily Allen. Sheena has also recently established a Vintage, Arts and Food Market in the courtyard outside her shop to give fledgling designers an opportunity to showcase their talents. The market is held on the first Saturday of every month and offers a wealth of vintage beauties, with everything from vinyl records and bric a brac to clothes and handmade work on offer. Sheena Holland is @ 10 Old Blacksmiths Yard, Sadler Gate, Derby, DE1 3PD www.sheenaholland.com

THEE VAPEORIUM Electronic cigarettes are the stylish and modern alternative to their tobacco cousins and Nottingham’s Thee Vapeorium are the undisputed experts. The Vape shop offers premium E-liquids from leading brands in a dizzying array of flavours and nicotine strengths and also stocks genuine Innokin, Kanger, Aspire, Vision, ProVari products, all packaged in a setting reminiscent of a vintage Tobacconist with an almost Steampunk feel.

All employees are ‘vapers’ themselves, so whether you’re a recent convert or part of the E-Cig elite, you’ll be able to benefit from the wealth of knowledge on offer, bolstered by extensive after sales support. Thee Vapeorium has two sites in the city, both offering the chance to ‘try before you buy’ on all liquids… don’t forget to ask for a loyalty card! Thee Vapeorium is @ 12 Goosegate, Hockley, Nottingham, NG1 1FF and 29 West End Arcade, Nottingham NG1 6JZ. Search ‘Thee Vapeorium’ on Facebook for more information. www.69-degrees.co.uk

HEALTH

SHAPE UP FOR SUMMER!

With the arrival of lighter nights and spring blossom in the air, most of us have one thing on our minds – SUMMER! And with this comes the annual fear of baring all on the beach… Luckily for us Alexis Fletcher, Personal Trainer, blogger and nutritionist is on hand with her basic 4-week guide, designed to firm up those problem areas through a combination of high intensity workouts and healthy eating. There is no such thing as a miracle fix, but this will certainly set you well on the way to achieving that fabled beach bod!

Warm Up Perform each exercise for 1 min: - Star jumps. - Jog on spot. - Lift alternate knees up to chest. - Kick alternate feet back up to bum. - Arm circles forward and back.

Resistance is NOT Futile Choose one exercise from each muscle group; perform it for 1 minute before repeating the circuit a further two times (with 30 seconds rest in between). Increase exercise time to 1.5 minutes after week two

Bum Squat Jump (plyometric):

Crash Course Cardio Perform each exercise for 1 min and carry out 3 circuits in total: - Skipping - Burpees - Hula-hooping Finish your cardio section with 10 minutes of running or cycling alternating between fast and slow pace in one-minute intervals. Use the discount code FLEXGRID to get 10% off some great equipment such as hula-hoops and skipping ropes at www.GymRoom. com www.69-degrees.co.uk

Stand with your feet hip width apart, push your hips back and jump up as high as possible landing in a squat position and repeat.

Lying Bridge: Lie on your back with a weight on your stomach (a few copies of SIXTYNINE will do!) knees bent and feet flat on the floor. Squeeze your glutes together to lift yourself up and repeat.

Leg Lift: On all fours, lift one leg parallel to the floor behind you, flex your foot and lift your leg towards ceiling. Lower down and repeat with the other leg.

Arms

Stomach

Push Up (plyometric):

Flutter Kick (plyometric):

In a normal push-up position, lower yourself to the floor, then with an explosive force push off the floor so that your hands leave the floor. Repeat.

Lying face up squeeze your abs and glutes as you alternately kick your legs up towards the ceiling, ensuring you keep them off the floor the whole time.

Tricep Dips:

Lunge Twists:

Find a hard, heavy surface around knee height then sit on the edge, with your hands either side of your hips. Straighten your legs and lower your body down as deep as you can before lifting yourself back up. Repeat staying as close to the edge as possible.

Stand holding a weight with two hands. Stride out into lunge position and twist with your obliques to the side your leg is out on. Return to the starting position and repeat with the other leg. Twist and shout if you feel the need to!

Tricep Raise: Kneeling down grab a suitable weight. Holding with both hands lift behind your head and straighten your arms up. Dip the weight down towards the floor before straightening the arms again. Feel the burn!

Wide Row: Sitting on the floor place elbows on 2 sturdy chairs. Bend knees 90’ and lift feet off floor. Press elbows into chairs and push chest forward as you pull your knees in. Row, row, row your boat…. Try and do this 4-5 times a week and mix it up each time for variation. It’s important to keep your body guessing and helps with motivation!

Meal Plan

Though vital to get in good shape, exercise is not the be all and end all. To achieve the physique of your dreams, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need to assess all areas of your life,including the dreaded D-word: diet.

Snack:

First thing:

Piece of fruit or unsalted nuts

Dinner:

Hot water with lemon for detox

Breakfast:

Smoothie: Choose your own selection of fruit or veg. For protein add nuts or protein powder and if you want some extra liquid add water or almond milk. A healthy fat such as flaxseed oil or coconut cream always goes down well, as does some extra flavour in the form of cacao or ginger.

Half a plate of veg like broccoli or spinach, a quarter of protein such as fish or chicken and make up the rest with low-GI carbohydrates like quinoa or millet.

Protein is important first thing in the morning as it keeps your blood sugar levels low and will help keep you from reaching for the biscuit tin later in the day!

Lunch:

1 lot of raw veg like cherry tomatoes, 1 filling veg such as avocado, 1 dressing like olive oil and balsamic and 1 protein like chicken (grilled), top with chili flakes (optional).

Dessert: Natural yoghurt with berries, grapes or cherries (good to eat at night as grapes hydrate you and cherries help you sleep) or a couple of pieces of dark chocolate (minimum 75% cocoa). Drink lots of herbal tea and water and if you need that caffeine fix have a coffee an hour before your workout to give you that extra buzz! Use natural products such as honey to sweeten things and season everything to enhance taste; easy on the salt though!

www.69-degrees.co.uk

The Critical List

BIG SCREEN, SMALL SCREEN, YOUR SCREEN. HANNAH SARGEANT LOOKS AT WHAT WE CAN’T WAIT TO WATCH, READ AND PLAY THIS SEASON.

GAME - Watch Dogs Set in near-future Chicago, where personal information and technology is controlled by the corrupt ctOS; the player’s role as vigilante Aiden Pearce is to hack the system in order to destroy ctOS for good. Controlling bank vaults to street lights, and with 65 vehicles to aid the quest, the player is given Chicago city to watch over in a bid to restore justice. Watch Dogs will be available on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Xbox 360, PlayStation 3 and PC on the 27th of May and Wii U in Summer 2014.

TV - Penny Dreadful

Highly anticipated Penny Dreadful reunites Skyfall director Sam Mendes and writer John Logan for what is expected to be the top psychological-horror TV series to grace the screens this year. Set in Victorian london and starring Josh Hartnett, Billie Piper and Eva Green, the series will include some of literatures’ favourite monsters including Frankenstein, Dracula and Oscar Wilde’s Dorian Gray. To air on Sky Atlantic from the 20th May.

TV - Gracepoint

FOX has revealed its plans to remake UK’s critically acclaimed crime drama, Broadchurch. Starring Breaking Bad’s Anna Gunn and Doctor Who’s David Tenant, who also played the same character in Broadchurch. The drama tells the story of the investigation into the murder of a young boy lead by detectives Emmett Garver and Ellie Miller. Written by the Chris Chibnall, the name behind the original Broadchurch and popular TV series Torchwood. Premiere date TBC.

FILM - Tammy

Marking Ben Falcone’s directorial debut, Tammy takes its place on our list of must-see comedies this summer. After loosing her job at a greasy burger restaurant, learning that her husband has been unfaithful and realising she is broke and without wheels; Tammy sets off and hits the road with her boozy grandmother. Staring Melissa McCarthy – best known and loved for Bridesmaids and award-winning actress, Susan Sarandon. In cinemas from 4th July.

BOOKS - To Rise Again at a Decent Hour by Joshua Ferris

‘There is nothing like a dental chair to remind a man that he is alone in the world’. To Rise Again at a Decent Hour encapsulates the meaning of life, the proverbial certainty of death and the importance of personal oral health. 40 year-old dentist, Paul O’Rourke is discontent with his mediocre life of a steady income and reoccurring routine until he discovers an unknown person posing as himself on Facebook and Twitter as a seemingly better version of himself. Ferris’ dazzlingly slick and comical novel is set for release in June, £16.99

www.69-degrees.co.uk

BOOKS - I am China by Xiaolu Guo Winner of the 2013 Granta Best of Young British Novelists and the 2005 Pearl Award for Creative Excellence, Xiaolu Guo latest novel around the lives of two lovers, separated by an oppressive political regime and making desperate efforts to be reunited. Set in England, China and America, the novel explores themes of alienation, personal journeys and unattainable love. Born in China, Xiaolu received critical acclaim for her other works such as Village of Stone and UFO in Her Eyes. I am China will be released on 5th June.

FILM - A Million Ways to Die in the West

Directed, produced and co written and starring the guy who brought you Ted’ - Seth MacFarlane, A Million Ways to Die in the West features Amanda Seyfried, Liam Neeson, Charlize Theron and Neil Patrick Harris, it tells the story of a cowardly sheep farmer who, after falling in love with a beautiful woman, must test his newfound courage when her notorious criminal husband seeks payback. A Million Ways to Die in the West hits the screens on 30th May.

TV - Made in Chelsea: New York MIC fans can anticipate a twist on the normal London setting of cobbled paths and up-market dining locations as the cast set out to America’s Big Apple this summer. The series will hit our TV screens on E4 in the summer.

WANNA BE

TOP DOG?

WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE RECRUITING NEW SALES PROFESSIONALS Competitive salary and great benefits available for the right candidate with the best pedigree.

EMAIL YOUR CV TO JON@SIXTYNINE-LTD.CO.UK www.69-degrees.co.uk

www.69-degrees.co.uk

SCAN TO WIN!

BEATS

BEATS AND TREATS THE SIXTYNINE DEGREES SOUND MONKEYS HAVE BEEN HARD AT WORK LISTENING TO ALL THINGS NEW.

by JAYEFF And Disgraceland.

SANDWICH ISLAND BASSAFTERHOURS

SEBASTIEN TELLIERL’AVENTURA

SINTILLATEMARBELLA 2014

Sandwich Island Bass has developed a unique sound that is getting international airtime. Making their debut on Generation Bass with Moombahtech anthem Silver, the Mauibased trio from Maui, London and Paris dropped a series of underground hits, entering the Beatport House 100 with their debut Sandwich Island Bass Vol. 1. In original form the ‘Afterhours’ is a whip-snapping, crackling bit of boisterous house music with tough metal chords, well swung percussion and nebulous synths lending it plenty of presence. www.beatport.com/release/ afterhours/1283621 DISGRACELAND

Tellier’s sixth album, L’Aventura is French singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist’s concept album set in a part-mythical Brazil. Cinematic and adventurous, musically it adds exquisite Brazilian tones to Tellier’s usual idiosyncratic palate of Gallic pop & chanson, baroque and electronic. Sung mostly in French, but with the occasional English & Italian phrases, L’Aventura marrys complex chords and melodies but remains accessible, light and sunny. A unique and hugely talented artist, Tellier’s identity can be found in the triangle between genius, eccentric and enigma. JAYEFF

One of Europe’s biggest club brands, with 15 years’ experience of hosting VIP parties, SINTILLATE have released their latest soundtrack to the massively popular club scene that has grown up around their parties. SINTILLATE Marbella 2014 includes 60 tracks across 3 mixes including Route 94 - My Love and Clean Bandit - Rather Be (Magician Remix). Other massive tracks include Gorgon City - Ready For Your Love, Katy B – 5AM as well as smashes from A-lister artists Disclosure, Tinie Tempah, Rudimental plus party classics like Basement Jaxx, Cassius, Rui Da Silva and Jamiroquai. JAYEFF

With World Cup fever about to hit Brazil and the world this summer, Brazil Beats packs more than 60 tracks over 3 CDs and celebrates the ‘latino’ vibe, tapping into the dance rhythms and downtempo beats of Brazil and Latin America. Disc one is a full of carnival flavour featuring the likes of Basement Jaxx, Fatboy Slim, Dario G and Tim Deluxe. Disc two includes soulful house tinged classics from Masters At Work, River Ocean plus Brazilian Funk-Rock from Edu K and CSS whilst disc three turns down the tempo including classic tracks from the likes of Sergio Mendes, Quincy Jones, & Asturd Gilberto. JAYEFF

MARVIN & GUYDON’T CHOOSE THE LOTION

PURO DESERT LOUNGEVOLUME FIVE

DIGITALSHAKA ZULU / ARCHIVE

SENSPROOF RUNNING AWAY

Here’s the perfect soundtrack to an afternoon drinking in the sun - yep, Summer Time is upon us and this cracking edit from Marvin & Guy is an ideal accompaniment. For me, this is a perfect example of the type of disco re-work that actually stands up, in terms of production, to current dance music whilst retaining the acoustic dynamics that defines the era. soundcloud.com/marvin-andguy/marvin-guy-dont-choose-the DISGRACELAND

Volume Five’ is the latest instalment in this highly-regarded series. Two discs of down-tempo desert vibes, and hypnotic deep house grooves, mixed and compiled by Seamless label don, Ben Sowton, and Puro Group resident, Sebas Ramis. CD1 offers the listener an alternative combination of North African and Middle Eastern inspired tracks with CD2 featuring a deeper, darker mix infused with a certain rawness and intensity. JAYEFF

Fuelling my love of emotion filled DnB anthems, old skool veteran, Digital, brings a huge slab of bass fuelled adrenalin to the table with this release. Without any hesitation I’d say that ‘Archive’ is my favourite track on this stellar release with a riff so atmospheric that it gives me goose bumps. soundcloud.com/ingredients/ sets/ingredientsuk041 DISGRACELAND

There’s little doubt that the soundtrack to this year’s festival shenanigans will be Deep House & Nu Garage. On that note, here’s a lovely example of the latter from Sensproof. A stunning mix of emotive chords, vocals and an absolutely banging piece of bass all glued together with some razor tight betas. soundcloud.com/futuregarage/ sensproof-running-awayedmcom-exclusive DISGRACELAND

www.69-degrees.co.uk

BRAZIL BEATS

TREATS

by Marie Wood

43 Conor Oberst –

Upside Down Mountain

Conor Oberst brings it all back home with Upside Down Mountain, his most intimate solo album in years. His first major label debut and written solely by Oberst, it’s a return to his early confessional and observational songwriting set to a simple country soundtrack. Opener ‘Ziggzagging Toward The Light’ is an exhilarating strummed stomp, ‘Night At Lake Unknown’ is a swoonful barely uttered letter to a lover and ‘Enola Gay’ is a lost Big Star country anthem. Obviously a Conor Oberst album is not a Conor Oberst album without guests. Beautiful harmonies caress most tracks and producer Jonathan Wilson’s omnipresent slide guitar draws the tracks together. Upside Down Mountain is Conor Oberst coming back out on top.

The Horrors – Luminous The Horrors’ first emerged with a whiplash of gnarled voracity that made everyone stand to attention. Now, nine years on they have reclined so far into a beige leather sofa of Simple Minds meets baggy blandness that it’s hard to even notice them. Only ‘First Days Of Spring’ and ‘Falling Star’ punctuate the suffocating swirl of reverb immersing ‘Luminous’. Bands can’t stay young forever, but it’s a small ask that they keep a pulse.

Little Dragon – Nabuma Rubberband Sweden’s Little Dragon earned universal acclaim with their last release, Ritual Union, and their fourth is set to bring more accolades. RnB, dance, soul and jazz are woven effortlessly together into a rich audio canvas with singer, Yukimi Nagano, velvety vocals working as the common thread: tracks like the treacle groove of ‘Cat Rider’ sit easily next to rapid beats of ‘Paris’. Nabuma Rubberband harnesses every contemporary pop sound and emotion.

Nick Mulvey – First Mind English singer-songwriter Nick Mulvey’s debut leaves firmly behind his jazz past, as part of Mercury Prize nominated Portico Quartet, to recount his tales armed only with the intricate strumming of an acoustic guitar. The title and the songs themselves encourage open mindedness, from the touching ode of ‘Fever To Form’ to the honest observations of a daydreamer selling laughing gas on ‘Nitrous’. Nick Mulvey is here to walk you through the streets of 2014.

Le Sera – Hour Of The Dawn Ex-Vivian Girl Katy Goodman’s dream to have her third album sound like “Lesley Gore fronting Black Flag” is granted with an extra sprinkling of 80s power pop. Opener ‘Losing To The Dark’ is a 3 minute takedown of hipsters to gnarled guitars, ‘All My Love Is For You’ channels The Chiffons in their darkest powder blue hour and ‘Control’ is a silky harmony ode to rebellion. Hours Of The Dawn may not shed any new light, but it’s pleasant to bathe in its glow.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

GREAT EXPE

It seems like the Midlands are taking over as the UK’s capital of new musical talent. Artists such as Jake Bugg, Kasabian and ex Nottingham students London Grammar (see our exclusive interview on p18)have flexed their musical muscles whilst both the X Factor and The Voice have seen midland’s talent in their top threes with singers like Leicester’s Sam Bailey and Wolverhampton’s Liam Payne adding the commercial to the credible.

Indiana From: Nottingham. Sound: Synth-pop with an edge.

Projects like Nottingham’s Nusic and Birmingham’s Digbeth based new music scene are not only encouraging young musicians in the region to create but with sites such as youtube and Soundcloud they are also finally being heard.

Why we love her: Her edgy sound is very unique and blends well with her sultry voice. Her new single Solo Dancing is haunting and uber cool.

SIXTYNINE degrees’ Maddy Longford and Jon Fraser scoured the region for some of the hottest new sounds you should be listening to.

Where you can see her: 7/06/14 at the No Tomorrow Festival, Wollaton Park, Nottingham.

Wanna listen? We’ve put together a Youtube playlist of some of our favourite tracks from the bands above as well as a few more treats. Search for SIXTYNINE DEGREES MAGAZINE on youtube to view.

Lucy Ward From: Derby. Sound: Folk.

Jaws From: Birmingham. Sound: Indie-Pop.

Midnight Wire From: Leicester. Sound: Indie

Saint Raymond From: Nottingham. Sound: Rock/Pop.

Why we lover her: Winner of the BBC Folk Horizon Award (2012), Lucy Wards’ début single “For The Dead Men” is a modern protest song which showcases her purity of tone.

Why we love them: A reassuringly Madchester reminiscent guitar based sound enables instantaneous accessibility to some seriously well-crafted songs. Another keeper…

Why we love them: Anarchic, unashamedly feel good with a spoonful of punk spirit and fifties rockabilly to keep you pogoing. Never Gonna Leave LA needs to be on everyones’ playlist.

Where you can see them: 3/05/2014 at City Sound Project, Canterbury.

Where you can see them: Only upcoming gig is 13/05/14 at The Amersham Arms, London.

Why we love him: A Caribbean flavour to the melody, sweet tenor voice makes the insanely catchy Fall at Your Feet a sure fire hit for Saint Raymond – if you’re a Bombay Bicycle Club fan be prepared for a little slice of heaven.

Where you can see her: 2/08/2014 at the Riverside Arts Festival, Nottingham, 2/10/2014 at the Hare and Hounds Heath, Birmingham.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Where you can see him: 3/07/14 at Kendall Calling, Nottingham.

ECTATIONS

By The Rivers From: Leicester. Sound: Reggae

Swim Deep From: Birmingham. Sound: Indie-Pop.

Adelphia From: Nottingham. Sound: Alt Rock

Molly Smitten Downes From: Leicester. Sound: Pop.

Why we love them: Slick sounding reggae from a band who’s live performances are becoming legendary. Single Take Control has that big brass sound with a blissed out melody and meaningful lyrics.

Why we love them: The drifting, ethereal south coast grunge pop sound of Swim Deep just scream long summer days drinking cider in the park and blowing dandelion clocks into a sunlight. The equivalent of an aural sigh.

Why we love them: We’re loving single Lost at Seaaccessible alt rock with killer vocals, a deep and dirty bassline and a melody that’ll stay in your head all day long.

Why we love her: Choosing to write her own songs, Molly, as part of BBC’s introducing scheme was selected to compete in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest and did a sterling job- how can you compete against a bearded drag queen though?

Where you can see them: 26/07/2014 Simon Says Festival, Leicester.

Where you can see them: 1/08/2014 at Y Not Festival, Derbyshire.

Where you can see them: 06/09/2014 at Macmillan Fest, Rescue Rooms Nottingham.

Where you can see her: On the telly.

SEARCH SOUNDCLOUD FOR :

Jamie Joseph From: Derby. Sound: RnB, Soul. Why we love him: An amazing soul voice, Jamie’s falsetto enchants on feel good track Hit The Ground Running, we’re loving the old school organs and hand clapping too. Where you can see him: follow him on twitter @ jamiejoseph

Troumaca From: Birmingham. Sound: Bass Escapism, Soul and Dub. Why we love them: We’ve written about Troumaca before being big fans of their fusion of Caribbean inspired sounds and electronic trickery that offers a modern, interpretation of a dance hall sound. Where you can see them: 23/05/2014 at Leftfoot, Birmingham and 24/05/2014 at Hare and Hounds Heath, Birmingham.

Haiku Salut From: Derby. Sound: Baroque Pop / Electro Why we love them: A little slice of electro loveliness with the added bonus of accordion and glockenspiel – spellbindingly perfect with single Glockelbar’s accompanying video becoming an instant favourite. Where you can see them: 23/05/2014 at Nottingham Contemporary (supporting Pentatronix), Nottingham.

Liam Bailey, Ronika, Joel Baker, Amber Run, The Swiines, Kappa Gamma, Lacey, Spotlight Kid, Loophole Project, Ryan Thomas, Mahalia, Charlotte Carpenter Wanna listen? We’ve put together a youtube playlist of some of our favourite tracks from the bands above as well as a few more treats. Search for SIXTYNINE DEGREES MAGAZINE on youtube to view.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

2014 FESTIVAL GUIDE

This year’s festival season sees Midlanders spoilt for choice with a host of top class events happening right on our doorstep this summer. It’s the perfect excuse to pack up your life in a rucksack and not wash for a weekend. For those who want their tunes without the trench foot we’ve looked further afield to some of the world’s most sun soaked resorts to experience some epic sounds in the sunshine, whilst we’ve looked into some alternative options for those that like their music new. Writes Ifrah Murki

LOCAL HEROES

WIN! We’ve got a huge amount of festival tickets to give away. Visit www.69-degrees. co.uk for your chance to win!

Leicester Music Festival

WIN!

25 – 26 July, Leicester

WIN!

Global Gathering

25 – 26 July, Stratford-upon-Avon Renowned for its electronic music and for playing some of the biggest and best live artists and DJs EDM has to offer, it’s essential for all music festival fans out there to hop along. With a myriad of global talent including Chase & Status, The Prodigy, David Guetta and Knife Party, this will be a memorable experience for dance lovers. Make sure you pack your camping gear, as a huge campsite only adds to the hub of the festival ambience. www.globalgathering.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Welcoming the biggest and best music artists to the city for the very first time, LMF has announced a huge line up for its inaugural event. Top acts like Professor Green, Katy B, The Saturdays, Labrinth, Sam Bailey and even Diversity will be performing at the Welford Road Stadium this summer. With 16 acts across two days spanning soul, urban, rock, reggae, pop and R’n’B, this promises to be an event for everyone and Leicester’s most impressive music event in recent history. www.leicestermusicfestival.co.uk

Wireless Festival 4 – 6 July, Birmingham

WIN!

This year’s Wireless looks like it could well be the festival to beat across Britain. Featuring the biggest artists, DJs and dance acts as well as the stars of tomorrow, if you can name it, the chances are Wireless will have it – well nearly anyway. With Ellie Goulding, Outkast, Pharrell Williams, Drake, Knife party and Bruno Mars already on the bill, you’d be mad to not want to go to this. Get your tickets now to avoid disappointment! www.wirelessfestival.co.uk

Godiva Festival 4 – 6 July, Coventry

WIN! Noisily Festival

11 – 13 July, Leicestershire

Supporting local music and upcoming artists is one of the things that makes Godiva so popular. Showcasing unknown acoustic artists across mini stages allows the audience to hear something different against the bigger artists such as Happy Mondays, The Selector and Buzzcocks. Amidst live music covering all genres, there are history and conservation tents, a fun fair and much more, all spread over Coventry’s glorious War Memorial Park for three remarkable days. Oh and it’s free.

Visit www.godivafestival.co.uk for more information.

Rave to some, techno, house, disco and a diverse range of dance music in the wooded valleys of Leicestershire. Across three main stages and some smaller ones too, await an awesome line up including Max Cooper, Slam, Tristan, EVP, Totally Enormous Extinct Dinosaurs, Greg Wilson and many more. With this diverse collection of performers, anticipate a soundtrack like no other in the Midlands. www.noisilyfestival.com

WIN! Simon Says

26 – 27 July, Leicester Returning to Leicester for its second year at De Montfort Hall, Simon Says provides a stage for local talent, with nationally recognised acts complementing the lineup. Headlined by The South, with a bill that features By The Rivers, The DTs, Vibronics, Kingsize, Pressure Tenants and Hells Addiction amongst others, you simply have to be in Leicester this weekend. With action taking place across De Montfort Hall’s gardens as well as the iconic hall itself, this festival will have a rural feel in an urban setting, creating a great festival ambience. www.demontforthall.co.uk

1 –3 August, Derbyshire

The beautiful surroundings of Wollaton Park will welcome the likes of Tom Odell, The Happy Mondays and Scouting For Girls this summer, with more acts still to be announced! Alternative entertainment will also be on offer in the form of a comedy stage, fun fair and dozens of market stalls. Following on from last year’s huge success and a triumphant homecoming headline slot for Jake Bugg, this year is set to push the boundaries of awesomeness even further.

It’s small. It’s Fresh and it’s loud. For one weekend a year, the gorgeous Peak District countryside of Derbyshire becomes home to the Y Not Festival. Keeping the music aside, there’s a fully stocked bar of local ales and ciders, a huge range of tasty food and of course, more live music than you can shake a stick at. With a melting pot of artists; from the best of local talent to the cream of the international crop, such as Dizzee Rascal, White Lies and Frank Turner, you’ll definitely find something you’ll love.

www.splendourfestival.com

www.ynotfestivals.co.uk

Splendour Festival WIN!

Y Not? Festival

19 July, Nottingham

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Alternative Action

WIN!

Tramlines

25 – 27 July, Sheffield Swapping fields and camping for innercity Sheffield, over a dozen venues in the city will play host to Tramlines’ biggest line up to date, as the festival enters its sixth year and continues to grow. The prices are refreshingly low, as at the core of the festival is the belief that people shouldn’t have to pay the earth to see their favourite acts. Which means you’ll be able to see the likes of Public Enemy, Katy B, The Cribs, The Rifles, Annie Mac and Catfish And The Bottlemen along with loads more for the crazy price of just £28 for a weekend ticket! www.tramlines.org.uk

Latitude

WIN BIG!

18 – 21 July, Suffolk Set in rolling hills and fairylight lit woods, Latitude is a festival that truly has all bases covered. Top musical talent is the order of the day along with comedy, theatre and dance, spoken word, film and cabaret! Check out the flock of multicoloured sheep, before watching Damon Albarn, Two Door Cinema Club and The Black Keys: definitely not one to be missed!

SEE OUR EXCLUSIVE COMPETITION ON PAGE 51!

www.latitudefestival.com

WIN!

Green Man

14 – 17 August Crickhowell, Wales Get lost in the Welsh Wilderness (in a good way) at this intimate festival with a 10-year tradition of championing great music, good times and good causes. Mystical leylines converge amid ancient oak trees, giving Green Man a stirring magical quality that draws people back year after year. The four-day festival boasts 1500 performers over 10 entertainment areas, including music from Beirut, Neutral Milk Hotel and The Waterboys, as well as comedy, poetry, literature, art and science. With the UK’s only 24-hour festival licence, you really can dance until the cows come home. www.greenman.net

www.69-degrees.co.uk

SUMMER SOUNDS How about combining your hollibobs with a spot of festival going? Don’t let the threat of rain spoil your play this summer, here’s our choice of some of the coolest and most unusual festivals to visit in 2014.

Stop Making Sense 31 Jul – 3 Aug, Croatia

World Body Painting Festival June 29 – 6 July, Austria

If you’re looking for something slightly different to your average music and dance event, then pop along to Austria’s Body Painting Festival. Walk into a melting pot of art as artists from more than 40 different nations do their best to stun and entertain. The high-quality art creates a very special experience, as well as having live international DJs, fashion and food. Located in Portschach, you’ll be surrounded by the beautiful turquoise water of Lake Woerth, making it worth the flight for setting alone. www.bodypainting-festival.com/en

Promising one of the most incredible atmospheres in the history of ever, this is THE festival that could define your summer. Its own bay and private beach, situated on the beautiful Croatian coastline, means you can dance under the sun right next to the sea to cutting edge dance music, as well as latin, jazz, house, dubstep, and even reggae. If you’re a fan of a particular record label involved in the festival, you can head out on one of the label-curated boat trips to party onboard with your favourite artists. Top-notch stuff! www.stopmakingsense.eu

KJ IHQ greeN maN

POLNM 14–17 august

beirut C Neutral milk HAtel C bill CallaHaN C CaribOu C first aid kit C tHe waterbOYs C daugHter C tHe war ON drugs C aNNa Calvi C sHarON vaN etteN C POliCa C real estate C NekO Case C kurt vile & tHe viOlatOrs C PaNda bear C maC demarCO C OtHer lives C aNgel OlseN C suN kil mGN C simiaN mObile disCO PerfOrm wHOrl C tOY C JONatHaN wilsAN C HamiltON leitHauser C JeffreY lewis & tHe Jrams CtHe 2 bears C bOY & bear C NiCk mulveY C i break HOrses C tuNNg C rY X C fraNCAis & tHe atlas mOuNtaiNs C fraNk fairfield C miCHael CHaPmaN C telemaN C east iNdia YOutH C sPeedY Ortiz C laNterNs ON tHe lake C fat wHite familY C mutual beNefit C staNleY briNks C adult Jazz C samaris C wOmaN’s HOur C william tYler C zaCHarY Cale C 9 baCH C O’HGleY & tidOw C samaNtHa CraiN C geOrgia rutH C garetH bONellO C mariam tHe believer C mY sad CaPtaiNs C all we are C faraO C laura grAves C HaPPYNess C PlaNk! C HOCkeYsmitH C HigHasakite C aliCe bOmaN C famY C eaves C miCHael a grammar C sONs Of NOel & adriaN C we are CatCHers C tHe rails C babe C valleYers C JOHN mOuse C tHe maY birds C Plus mOre aCts tba greeNmaN.Net

grass rGts festival award uk festival awards 2�12

glaNusk Park breCAN beaCANs sOutH wales

–2O14–

tiCketliNe.COm/ greeN-maN 0844 888 9991

best medium sized festival uk festival awards 2�10

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Rainforest World Music Festival 20 – 22 June, Malaysia

Unlike other festivals where you’re in an empty field with stages, this one is set in the forest of Sarawak! Not only do you get to experience some amazing music, but you also get a jungle adventure as soon as you enter! At Rainforest Music festival, chances are you’ll see stars walking around, participating in intimate jam sessions during daily workshops and simply enjoying the show along with their fans and not just hiding away backstage after performances. Bet you’ve never seen that before! www.rwmf.net

Fusion Festival 26 – 29 June, Germany

Fusion takes place on the airstrips of an abandoned Soviet military airport, which makes it immediately and unequivocally awesome. The festival hosts artists from all around the world but uniquely, the lineup is only announced in the Festival Guide you receive on arrival, which only adds to its awesomeness – oh, the suspense! Four days at an abandoned military airbase in the middle of nowhere, with eclectic music pumping out everywhere you turn? Count us in! www.fusion-festival.de

Zurich Street Parade 2 August, Zurich

Street Parade Zurich has perfected the art of throwing a daylong musical parade with 30 love mobiles, 600 acts and 7 stages, attended by one million people. You get to party around the stunning Lake Zurich and if one day isn’t enough, you can always stay for the whole weekend and join in one of the hundreds of parties in the surrounding neighbourhoods. Don’t forget to bring some extra change if you’re going to be having a few drinks. Cheap it ain’t. www.streetparade.com

Le Festival Du Mot

28 May – 1 June 2014. France Over a period of five whole days, an amalgamation of artists, writers poets and scholars share their work with the aim to inspire; The Festival of the Word. With a load of booksellers and an extensive literature programme full of creativity, workshops and some visual arts, if you’re a lover of words you can’t NOT pay a visit to the Charite sur Loire in Burgundy. www.festivaldumot.fr

Sziget Festival

11 – 18 August, Hungary Get your holiday and festival fix all in one place at one of Europe’s biggest multicultural events, set on the beautiful Óbudai Island in the heart of Budapest. Nicknamed the ‘Island of Freedom’, Sziget could almost be regarded as an independent state, attracting nearly 400,000 fans annually with a huge programme of music, theatre, circus and exhibitions. The musical talent that will be playing this festival is mind-blowing and includes Queens of the Stone Age, Blink 182, Jimmy Eat World, Cee Lo Green, Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, Outkast, The Prodigy, Lily Allen, The 1975, Bastille, Calvin Harris, The Kooks, Placebo, Imagine Dragons, London Grammar Tom Odell and Manic Street Preachers amongst loads of others. Just wow. www.szigetfestival.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

WIN...

We have absolutely everything you could possibly need to have the most amazing festival experience ever including all of these amazing goodies.

AN AMAZING FESTIVAL EXPERIENCE WORTH OVER £2000 INCLUDING TICKETS TO LATITUDE! 1

7 5

6 2

4 8 3 9

1. belVita Breakfast Cocoa & Live Yogurt Crunch £2.79, Available in Supermarkets. 2. BOGS mens wellies £80, www.anatom.co.uk. 3. Mel Millis Organic Trio £40, www.melmillis.co.uk. 4. Hemingway Design Typo wellies £29.99, www.briersltd.co. 5. Orchid tulle skirt flat £58, www.angelsface.co.uk. 6. Leather Biker Jacket, £90, www.il2l.com. 7. Centurian Camo Bomber £95, www.luke1977.com. 8 & 9 Lip Flask £10 and Lunch box £10, www.justmustard.com. 10. Cheap Monday Presription Sunglasses £150, Specsavers. 11. Vango Boulder Rucksack £40, www.vango.co.uk. 12. POD Mini £399, www.podtents.com. 13. Thirst Aid Drink bag £5, www.justmustard.com. 14. The House of Marley Liberate headphones £99.99 www.thehouseofmarley.co.uk. 15. SOS Rehydrate £8, www.sosrehydrate.com 16. Men’s and Women’s Mocks £45, www.mocksonline.com.

We’re giving one lucky reader the chance to win it all including a pair of weekend camping tickets to Latitude! For your chance to win this amazing prize visit www.69-degrees.co.uk and click on competitions.

SHORTLIST.

Mark Grist: Rogue Teacher

23 May @ Assembly Rooms, Derby If you’ve not seen Mark Grist’s freestyle battle versus Blizzard, go and Google it now. Then buy tickets to this show. Uniquely fusing the spoken word with hip-hop this immensely talented former schoolteacher challenges the conventions and stereotypes of both. He’s proved to be one of the country’s most entertaining and thought provoking artists and will take you on a journey from over enthusiastic English teacher to world wide rap battle sensation, as he leaves teaching to pursue his life long dream of being a full time artist. www.derbylive.co.uk

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Andrew O’Neill: Heavy Metal – A History 6 June @ Assembly Rooms, Derby

A stand up show with a difference, Andrew O’Neill is offering the uninitiated a whistle-stop tour through all things heavy metal, including instructions on exactly how to headbang, an insight into what actually happens in a moshpit and the difference between blackened thrash and grindcore, which is good because we’ve always wondered. Did you know it takes the average metalhead 10 minutes longer to get ready in the morning due to their all-black wardrobe? Neither did we, so go learn your stuff!

Birmingham Pride 2014 24 – 25 May @ Hurst Street, Birmingham

Khandan (Family)

22 May – 7 June @ Birmingham Repertory Theatre Jeeto has a strong sense of her past and her principles. She has spent her life making sacrifices for her children and now looks forward to retirement. Yet with a restless son, a daughter’s dark secret and the arrival of a destitute cousin, Jeeto’s family’s destiny is about to change forever. This new play by Gurpreet Kaur Bhatti features Sudha Bhuchar and Preeya Kalidas.

The biggest and friendliest twoday street party in the UK returns in May 2014! Birmingham Pride is a weekend long LGBT festival event annually held in the Gay Village on Hurst Street. The colourful and vibrant festival never fails to generate a fantastic atmosphere, welcoming everyone to dance from dusk ‘til dawn. The event features a carnival parade through the city centre, plus the Main Festival Site includes a great dance arena, cabaret marquee and funfair. www.birminghampride.com

www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

Wicked

9 July – 6 September @ Birmingham Hippodrome Wicked has been casting its spell over audiences across the world for a decade, collecting international awards is if they were going out of fashion, and will be making its magical way to Birmingham this summer. Wicked brilliantly reimagines the stories and characters in ‘The Wonderful Wizard of Oz’, to tell the incredible story of an unlikely but profound friendship between two sorcery students who will go on to fulfil their destinies as Glinda The Good and the Wicked Witch of the West.

A Complete & Utter History of the Roman Empire...with Jokes 27 May @ Theatre Royal, Nottingham

If you often wonder what the Romans ever did for us, here’s your best (and most amusing) chance to find out, as experienced comedian, graduate historian and Huffington Post blogger Ed O’Meara attempts to cram over a thousand years of history into one hilarious evening. This is a great opportunity to see the cult stand-up comedy show of 2013’s Edinburgh Fringe set in the intimate and informal surroundings of the Theatre Royal’s Dress Circle Foyer. www.69-degrees.co.uk

Omid Djalili

29 May @ Loughborough Town Hall

The British-born Iranian stand up is back on tour with a splash, following a sellout West-End residency and a soldout season at the Edinburgh Festival. One of Britain’s freshest and most original comics, Omid hams the accent and underlines the clichés, before pulling the Persian rug from under the audience. Join him for some razor sharp and expertly crafted observations on the diversity of modern Britain and our cultural behaviour.

Rock of Ages

9 – 14 June @ Theatre Royal, Nottingham Still rocking after five years on Broadway, three years in the West End and a 2012 film adaptation starring an ensemble cast headed by Tom Cruise, Alec Baldwin and Russell Brand, the legendary Rock of Ages is now heading out on a UK tour. Hair bands and sexual innuendos abound in this hilarious 80s-themed musical which features over 30 eyebrow scorching tunes including Don’t Stop Believin’, We Built This City, The Final Countdown, Here I Go Again and I Want To Know What Love Is.

Austentatious

12 June @ Nottingham Playhouse Undoubtedly one of the most talked-about shows on the UK comedy scene right now, Austentatious is an hour-long comedy play spun in the inimitable style of Jane Austen, based entirely on audience suggestions. The play’s seasoned cast will perform in period costume with live cello accompaniment, putting on a great – and unique – show for fans of literature and improvised comedy alike. After sell out runs in London and Edinburgh, the critically acclaimed show now comes to the Nottingham Playhouse as part of its national tour.

Penn & Teller

15 – 16 June @ New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham The legendary comic magician duo will be touring the UK for the first time this summer, performing their classic magic tricks live, with a dash of their unique humour and audience participation thrown in for good measure. The pair have defied labels and at times, good taste, as they have redefined magic over the past 40 years with a series of sold out runs on Broadway and world tours to boot. Birmingham is one of only three cities lucky enough to host one of magic’s most outrageous and innovative teams so make sure you don’t pass this opportunity up! www.69-degrees.co.uk

Woman in Mind

13 – 28 June @ Birmingham Repertory Theatre One afternoon Susan finds herself lying on the lawn of her suburban garden, concussed by a garden rake. The family doctor is tending to her and soon her handsome husband and the rest of the family arrive home to spoil her. But when her real husband – a vicar whose main love is writing the 60-page history of the parish – arrives home, it becomes clear that Susan has created an entire fantasy family as an antidote to her real one. A devastatingly funny and poignant play about a woman slowly unravelling from one of the world’s most frequently performed playwrights; Alan Ayckbourn. www.birmingham-rep.co.uk

Derby Comedy Festival

13 – 22 June @ Various venues, Derby The positive effects of laughter and comedy are well known, so whatever tickles your fancy, make sure you head down to Derby this summer for some of life’s best medicine! Derby Comedy Festival will grace the city for the first time ever this year and has already bagged nationally renowned acts such as Dawn French and Jimmy Carr. In addition to straight talking stand up, there will also be intimate comedy club experiences, plays, puppetry as well as a programme of events suitable for kids.

NATIONAL THEATRE PRESENTS

ONE MAN, TwO GuvNORS

dIREcT FROM LONdON’S wEST ENd

TO kILL A MOckINGbIRd Adapted for the stage by Christopher Sergel Based on the novel by Harper Lee

HHHHH The Times

HHHHH Daily Express

MON 6 – SAT 11 OcT

MON 13 – SAT 18 OcT

FRI 17 OcT – SAT 8 NOv

HIccuP THEATRE PRESENT

PINOccHIO

cIRcA: wuNdERkAMMER

A new verison by Michael Rosen

Music by

RichaRd RodgeRs oscaR hammeRstein ii Lindsay and RusseL cRouse

Lyrics by

Book By howaRd

Suggested by ‘The Trapp Family Singers’ By Maria Augusta Trapp

DirEcTED By PauL

wEd 5 – SAT 8 NOv

KeRRyson

FRI 28 NOv – SAT 17 JAN

wEd 10 dEc – SAT 3 JAN

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Sebastian Faulks’ Birdsong 17 – 21 June @ Curve

The critically acclaimed stage show based on Sebastian Faulks’ popular novel Birdsong is coming to the Curve Theatre in Leicester. Prepare to be moved by the haunting and emotional story of Stephen, one of the millions of young men who had their lives irreversibly changed by the First World War. The show comes complete with a hit cast, including former Blue Peter presenter Peter Duncan and Hollyoaks’ Jonny Clarke. Kleenex at the ready folks. www.curveonline.co.uk

Kasabian

21 June @ Victoria Park, Leicester The recently announced headliners of Glastonbury 2014 will be stopping by in their hometown on their way down south for a HUGE one-off show in the heart of the city. Currently holed up in the studio recording their fifth album, the Leicester lads say they have been planning to bring their hit-laden set list back to the place where it all began for years and will be doing it in spectacular style in the first show of it’s kind to be staged at Leicester’s Victoria Park.

An Indian Summer

23 – 29 June @ Cultural Quarter, Leicester Diversity and multiculturalism are two things that give Leicester its unique feel. An Indian Summer gives you the chance to experience the wonderfully colourful and varied culture of India, with an enthralling mixture of film, food, music, dance, literature, talks, workshops and exhibitions. The festival has grown yearly since it began in 2011 and is now an established part of the cultural quarter’s calendar. www.indiansummer.org.uk

Cycle Live Nottingham

21 – 22 June @ Various venues, Nottingham Nottingham will be engulfed by a wave of appreciation for all things two wheeled this summer when Cycle Live hits the city in June. Comprised of events such as the Nottingham City Ride, the Nottingham Grand Prix and the Great Notts Bike ride, which enters its 33rd year, professionals and part-timers alike will take to the streets and pound the pedals in a collection of competitive and non-competitive rides. There’ll be designated feed stations en route, offering snacks and treats, all to keep you pedalling with a smile on your face.

Flash Mob

26 June @Royal Concert Hall, Nottingham 27 June @ New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham 3 July @ De Montfort Hall, Leicester If you go to one dance show in your life, make it this one! Flash Mob is a spectacular introduction to the wide and varied art of dance with a gourmet menu, comprised of, well, a little bit of everything. From Strictly to Street, Jazz to Jump Jive, the many worlds of dance collide in this amazing celebration of movement to music. Headliners include Kevin Clifton and Karen Hauer from Strictly Come Dancing, World Street Dance champions Flawless from Britain’s Got Talent, as well as Olivier nominated Tommy Franzen from So You Think You Can Dance

www.69-degrees.co.uk

The Dandy Warhols

1 July @ Recuse Rooms, Nottingham 3 July @ O2 Academy Leicester

Remember the band that sang ‘Bohemian Like You’? Yeah, them. They’re coming to the Midlands this summer! The Dandy Warhols have been in business since the mid 90s and have recently released their eighth album, meaning they have more than enough of a back catalogue to call upon as they distribute a joyful barrage of anthemic indie-pop in both Leicester and Nottingham. Worth going, if only to dance around and shout ‘Cos I like you, yeah I like you and I’m feeling so bohemian like you!’

Brindleyplace Dragonboat Festival 28 June @ Brindleyplace, Birmingham

The festival, supported by Free Radio and in aid of HelpHarryHelpOthers takes competitiveness up a notch. Now in its 14th year, the Dragonboat Festival sees 22 teams race head to head in traditional Chinese longboats on the Birmingham and Fazeley Canal at Brindleyplace, from Pitcher and Piano to the winning post at The NIA. One of the most popular events at Brindleyplace, fancy dress is optional but encouraged!

Honk!

27 June – 5 July @ Curve, Leicester. We caught one of Curve Young Company’s productions last year and can vouch for the fact that there is some serious talent on show. Based on Hans Christian Andersen’s The Ugly Duckling, Honk! tells the story of an odd looking baby duck, and his quest to find his mother after being seduced away by a wily cat. Throw in a love story and a ton of memorable songs and what you’ve got is one heart-warming musical from the talent of tomorrow… not one to be missed!

HHHH BIRMINGHAM MAIL

CARTOON CLASSIC COMES TO LIFE!

JOE LONGTHORNE

THE ELO EXPERIENCE

WED 20 - SAT 23 AUG

MON 25 - WED 27 AUG

FRI 29 AUG

SAT 30 AUG

AN INTIMATE EVENING WITH

WED 3 SEP

0844 871 3011 GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3031 (bkg fee)

JETHRO

SUN 7 SEP

TUE 9 SEP

WED 10 SEP

BLESS ‘EM ALL

www.atgtickets.com/ birmingham (bkg fee)

A G

ART GARFUNKEL

PSYCHIC SALLY ON THE ROAD

‘THE END PRODUCT IS REMARKABLE’

THU 11 SEP

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Emergency

3 July @ The Y, Leicester

This intimate event offers cabaret by candlelight as some of the region’s brightest emerging talent in theatre, dance, performance poetry, short film, music and comedy showcase their new work. Emergency is a one night only line up of six performances, all with the opportunity to offer feedback to individual artists and influence the direction of their future work.

Brindleyplace Outdoor Film Festival 7 – 13 July @ Brindleyplace, Birmingham The Outdoor Film Festival showers glitz and glamour on Brindleyplace for one week each year and it’s back this July. Visitors will be treated to nine momentous movies, as voted for by the general public, all enjoyed for free from the comfort of beanbags amidst some promised sunshine! The theme to this year’s films is 80s vs 90s… where does your heart lie? Cast your vote at www.brindleyplace.com.

Caitlin Moran: How to Build a Girl

Joe Lycett 9 July @ The Cookie, Leicester

14 July @ Nottingham Playhouse

Joe Lycett is one of the strongest emerging comedy talents in the county right now and will be stopping by in Leicester to test run his Edinburgh material in a special preview show downstairs at The Crumblin’ Cookie this summer. With his unaffected, relaxed and effortless stage presence, Joe is appealing, engaging and a natural performer destined for future greatness. The best thing about Edinburgh preview shows is the fact that you get to see topnotch comedy for ridiculously cheap prices.

The Dreamboys 17 July @ New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham Following a massive sold out 2013 UK tour, one of the UK’s top male glamour acts is back with a two hour-long show full of music, muscle, mayhem and magic. After performing on TV shows such as The X Factor, Britain’s Got Talent and The Only Way is Essex, The Dreamboys have become the only male strip group in history to earn themselves celebrity status! If you’re looking for the perfect girls’ night out, then look no further than these incredible stripping hunks. They’ll literally have you begging for more!

www.69-degrees.co.uk

16 July @ New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham In order to get out of doing her share of the childcare, author Caitlin Moran is coming to Nottingham and Birmingham and will be insisting the bar stays open late. Caitlin will be on hand to deliver highlights from How To Be A Woman, Moranthology and her new book: How To Build A Girl. We’re heavily assured that the blueprints for changing the world WILL be issued, and then most probably lost in a nightclub later.

Rent 31 July – 1 August & 4 – 7 August @ Curve, Leicester After the raging success of last year’s community production of Sweeney Todd, Curve are inviting the people of Leicester to get involved in a new production of the smash-hit rock musical Rent. Set in the struggling Lower East Side of New York City, this prize-winning musical follows the highs and lows of filmmaker Mark and his artist friends over the space of one year as they fight to keep the bohemian spirit alive. www.curveonline.co.uk

Friday 23rd May - Free Entry! Alfie Bird’s & The Oobleck Oompah present

MOSELELE SINGALONG BREATHTAKINGLY WEIRD PLUS STAND UP COMEDY FROM The

FANTASTICALLYASTOUNDING

EXTRAORDINARILY SPLENDID

DIVINELY ABSURD

BARBARA NICE (PHOENIX NIGHTS) HANNAH SYLVESTER & PAUL SAVAGE Saturday 24th May

Heducation & Jam Hott present The Soundwave Festival Launch Party

SCRATCH PERVERTS

BIG BAD & BOSTIN’ SWIM DEEP OPENING WEEKEND

Alfie Bird’s & Birmingham Promoters present

EXTRAVAGANZA! FELIX MA

Sunday 25th May

Alfie Bird’s & Chicks Dig Jerks presents

RTIN

THE CUSTARD FACTORY, DIGBETH, BIRMINGHAM

Friday

23rd

Saturday

24th

Sunday

25th

MAY

FOR TICKETS HEAD OVER TO WWW.SEETICKETS.COM 190X136 LISTINGS AD V2:Layout 1 14/05/2014 18:21 Page 1

HOT CHIP (DJ SET)

THE CUSTARD FACTORY • DIGBETH • BIRMINGHAM • B9 4AA KEEP UP WITH ALL THINGS ALFIE AT WWW.ALFIEBIRDS.CO.UK FACEBOOK: ALFIE BIRDS / THE OOBLECK TWITTER: @ALFIEBIRDS @THEOOBLECK

birmingham-rep.co.uk Box Ofﬁce 0121 236 4455

4 – 20 Sep

22 Sep – 4 Oct

10 Oct – 1 Nov

16 Oct – 1 Nov

12 – 15 Nov

Birmingham Repertory Theatre and Hackney Empire present

Martin Dodd for UK Productions presents The Nottingham Playhouse Theatre Company and Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse production of

Birmingham Repertory Theatre and The Touring Consortium present

Birmingham Repertory Theatre Company, Baxter Theatre Centre and The Print Room present

Frantic Assembly and Theatre Royal Plymouth present

RUDY’S RARE RECORDS By Danny Robins Starring Lenny Henry

THE KITE RUNNER Adapted by Matthew Spangler Based on the novel by Khaled Hosseini

OF MICE AND MEN By John Steinbeck

SOLOMON AND MARION By Laura Foot Performed by Dame Janet Suzman & Khayalethu Anthony

OTHELLO By William Shakespeare Adapted by Scott Graham & Steve Hoggett

Birmingham Repertory Theatre is a registered charity. No. 223660

Facebook.com/birminghamrep

@birminghamrep www.69-degrees.co.uk

SOCIAL. After initially opening last December as a pop up bar, Norjske has made the announcement that they are here to stay. Set in the heart of Edgbaston, overlooking St George’s Church and the Michelin-starred Simpsons Restaurant, the Scandinavian-inspired bar boasts floor to ceiling windows, minimalist lines and warm fabrics, all designed to provide solace and comfort in a cold world. Norjske is a place for refined drinkers and the well thought out menu reflects this, showcasing the very best in Scandinavian and locally sourced offerings. From craft beers to champagne, a glance down Norjske menu takes you on a trip around the world, making the first Scandinavian themed bar outside of the capital well worth a visit.

Scandinavia Comes to the Second City

Norjske is @ Highfield Road, Edgbaston B15 3DP Tel: 0121 448 1216 www.norjske.com

Happy Birthday Danique

Leicester’sDanique Hairdressing celebrated five fantastic years in business with a sparkling drinks reception at the salon, followed by an after party at Maiyango. Copious amounts of both Champagne and canapés were kept in constant circulation; whilst the fun photo booth captured the celebrations. Over the last five years salon owner Keri Daniel has become one of the most respected hairdresser’s in the Midlands with the salon offering a boutique experience and more services than you can shake a stick at, working with top brands such as Label M and Cloud 9. Here’s to the next five years! Danique Hairdressing is @ 74 Highcross Street, Leicester, LE1 4NN. Tel: 0116 262 0491 www.69-degrees.co.uk

Turtle Bay Opens with a Bang in Brum Birmingham’s coolest cats were out in force recently for the opening of the city’s newest restaurant offering, Turtle Bay. City centre foodies were whisked away to an island paradise as they enjoyed bite size tasters of the Caribbean restaurant’s food, washed down with complimentary rum cocktails. And yes we can confirm the food was very nice and the cocktails very strong. Live music from reggae bands Troy Ellis & Hail Jamaica and Laid Blak got guests on the dance floor and kept them there for the majority of the evening!

Turtle Bay is @ 81-91 John Bright St, Birmingham, B1 1BL. Tel: 0121 643 1303 www.turtlebay.co.uk

48 Hours of Fashion Wows Nottingham Over 2,000 of Nottingham’s seasoned shoppers and style hunters were treated to a weekend of stunning catwalk shows and fashion master classes as 48 Hours of Fashion made a triumphant return to the city in spring. Old Market Square was transformed for two days, with a purpose built marquee housing some unique, theatrical performances that not only highlighted the best in high street, designer and independent fashion, but also showcased Nottingham itself as a great destination be it morning, noon or night! The fashion media were out in force as well as designers including Stuart Trevor, the founder of Bolangaro Trevor, who was full of praise for the event. Find out more about 48 Hours of Fashion, including where to find all the outfits featured at www.itsinnottingham.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Champers in the Sky

The Laurent-Perrier Champagne Bar at Marco Pierre White in The Cube re-launched with a grand party attended by Birmingham’s great and good, showcasing the fruits of a dramatic and luxurious transformation led by the fabulous interior designers Mr McQueen. The re-launch comes following a new two-year deal with the high end Champagne brand. The 25th floor bar, which stands proudly overlooking Birmingham as the city’s only sky bar alongside the main bar in Marco Pierre White restaurant, offers a leisure experience that up until two years ago was only available to those in London and Manchester. Marco Pierre White Steakhouse Bar & Grill is on the 25th Floor of The Cube, 200 Wharfside Street, Birmingham, B1 1PR. Tel: 0121 634 3433 www.mpwsteakhousebirmingham.co.uk

Catwalk Commanders Harvey Nichols Birmingham flexed their impressive fashion muscles with an exclusive catwalk show recently, featuring some of the choicest trends for SS14. With a VIP guestlist of Birmingham’s best dressed in attendance, champagne flowed as models served up fashion fierceness from the likes of Christopher Kane, Jimmy Choo, Alexander McQueen, Kenzo and Markus Lupfer. We loved almost everything on display and think that you beautiful bunch need a lot of these clothes in your life – go shop! Harvey Nichols Birmingham is @ The Mailbox, 31-32 Wharfside Street, Birmingham B1 1 RE. Tel: 0121 616 6000 www.harveynichols.com

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Welcome to Nottinghamâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s world class arts festival

SUNDAY 1 JUNE 2014 10 days of incredible events â&#x20AC;&#x201D; premieres, pop-ups and performances. A festival full of the best theatre, dance, film, music and art. Nottingham Playhouse / Lakeside Arts Centre / Theatre Royal & Royal Centre Broadway Cinema / Nottingham Contemporary / New Art Exchange / Dance 4

www.the-white-peacock.co.uk www.neatfestival.co.uk /neatfestival @neatfestival Box Office: 0115 9419419

www.69-degrees.co.uk

64 Take Me To Rocket! Eight eligible Midlands bachelors, including cricket stars, personal trainers and our very own Matt Blackwell, took to the stage for a very special Take Me Out style event at Nottingham’s Rocket@Saltwater recently. The night was in memory of local teenager Bronte Doyne who lost her battle against a rare form of liver cancer last year and raised over £1,370 for Teenage Cancer Trust. Tom and Claire from Capital FM guesthosted the evening and over 200 tickets were sold as Nottingham’s singletons clamoured over each other for the chance to bag a date with one of the bachelors. Insert witty Take Me Out wordplay here. To make a donation to Bronte Doyne’s fund, which aims to develop the Teenage Cancer Trust Units in Nottingham, please visit www.justgiving.com/mybronte

West is Best Braunstone Gate’s first ever festival of music and arts was a raging success, with Westival’s carnival atmosphere drawing crowds in the region of 8,000 over the course of the all day event. Proceedings kicked off at midday with a full schedule of musical acts ranging from steel bands and reggae DJs to a gospel choir. The street also saw 30 market stalls selling jewellery, gifts, handicrafts along with a range of locally produced food & drink. As day turned to night the action switched to Braunstone Gate’s bars and eateries with venues such as O Bar, Natterjacks and The Toucan hosting live music way into the small hours. For more information visit www.facebook.com/WestivalUK or follow @WestivalUK on Twitter. www.69-degrees.co.uk

What IF... IF you go down to Bushwackers this Saturday it’s not a surprise you’ll be sure of; it’s one amazing night out. Fact. Because everyone who’s anyone knows the Edmund Street venue is one of the hottest spots in Birmingham (literally hottest, just look at the some of these lovely-looking folk)! IF never fails to attract a stylish and sexy crowd and keeps them rocking from 1am right through to 7am. The legendary night is now in its eighth year and will be celebrating with a very special bank holiday birthday bash with Grant Nelson on 25 May! Search Bushwackers Birmingham on Facebook for more information

With 19 Pitcher & Piano bars across the UK we are very proud of our beautifully designed venues and you’ll never see two quite the same. Many of our bars are situated within listed buildings, each one having its own unique character where you can enjoy tasty, fresh food and a premium range of spirits, wines, beers and soft drinks – all served by the brilliant people that work for us.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

LAST WORD I got interested in fashion from quite an early age. I grew up in Walsall Wood and my mum was a really talented dress maker and watching her create master pieces started the fire burning. I started to help her out and before I knew it the football boots were sharing time with the sewing machine.

LUKE has changed the way that men dress. The trademark effortless style that nods its head at the trends rather than slavishly follow them has, since 2001, been a practical interpretation of contemporary menswear. The brand draws strong influences from the tough elements of its native Birmingham. Foundry worker meets fashionista, Luke’s ethos is to put a fashionable twist on any men’s garment but without over designing to retain a cool masculine look. SIXTYNINE degrees caught up with founder and Midlander Luke Roper to find out how he at first broke into the world of fashion and then found himself at the forefront of it. www.69-degrees.co.uk

By my mid-teens I was making one off shirts and trousers for my friends and this escalated with lads from all over the area putting in their orders. My mum still inspires me; 77 years old this year and still a legend with more energy than most people half her age! Growing up there was a certain degree of support in the Midlands and I am very grateful for that and very humbled. The people inspire me and I love the sense of humour. I’m also immensely proud of the region’s fantastic industrial heritage, I love working hard and our industrious past drives me to want and achieve more. Throughout the UK there are hotbeds of style, often fuelled by the “lesser spotted independent” menswear stores. These are the lifeblood of our British Fashion industry and my favourite stores. It was these stores that I wanted to work

with and they showed me that at the end of the day lads are not going to spend their hard earned cash on something they don’t like or is bad quality. I take inspiration from anything and everyone, no big names, the man on the street that loves his style and knows his clothes. In the words of the National Lottery, “it could be you” I’d like to think people buy LUKE for what it is, great design led products. I’m a complete clothes addict but if I had to pick three key items, which could work across different looks and as one it would be a crisp white shirt, a raw pair of denim jeans and some classic brogues. All timeless pieces that need to be in your wardrobe! With the economy finally turning, the first graduates of the ‘disposable high street generation’ will hit their mid twenties. With a few quid back in their pockets they’ll expect much more from their clothes and the desire for quality pieces that are well designed will win out once more. Luke, Birmingham Bullring Luke, Birmingham Merry Hill Centre Luke, Leicester High Cross Centre www.luke1977.com

SHOW TIME 2014 Art and Design Degree Shows and Events Celebrating 170 years of Art and Design expertise and creativity, Nottingham Trent University launches a showcase of final-year student exhibitions, catwalk shows and events in May and June.

DEGREE SHOWS PUBLIC OPENING 30 MAY – 7 JUNE Mon – Fri: 10 am – 5 pm / Sat: 11 am – 5 pm / Sun: 11 am – 4 pm Location: Across the NTU City site. Admission is free.

INDUSTRY PREVIEW EVENT 29 MAY

CATWALK SHOWS AND FASHION EXHIBITION 21 – 22 MAY 6 pm and 8 pm Location: Newton building, NTU City site. See shows website for prices and booking.

BLACKBOX PHOTOGRAPHY FESTIVAL 26 MAY – 6 JUNE The 18th Annual BA (Hons) Photography exhibition at venues around Nottingham. www.blackboxfestival.com

OPEN DAYS

5 pm – 9 pm: launch preview for professionals and industry representatives.

Visit us, meet staff and students, and find out more about studying Art and Design. Book at: www.ntu.ac.uk/opendays

Booking essential: register at www.ntu.ac.uk/degreeshowspv

Weds 2 July / Sat 13 Sept / Sat 11 Oct / Sat 8 Nov 2014

COMMUNITY ACTIVITY DAY 31 MAY

All further Degree Shows information: www.ntu.ac.uk/degree6914

11 am - 5 pm: creative activities for all the family. Free event, booking essential; please see shows website www.ntu.ac.uk/degree6914

#newtalentunleashed

Image: Lolita Cameron, BA (Hons) Photography, Urban Space Cadet