SIXTYNINE degrees Winter '14 by Fraser Urquhart Media

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SIXTYNINE degrees

THE winter EDIT

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NOEL FIELDING FESTIVE FUNK WIN A CHOPPER DERREN BROWN DIARY OF A FOOTBALL SUPERSTAR

NO. 78

EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING ENQUIRIES: 69 MAGAZINE LTD LCB DEPOT 31 RUTLAND STREET LEICESTER LE1 1RE TEL.0116 2533 445 INFO@SIXTYNINE-LTD.CO.UK WWW.69-DEGREES.CO.UK

6...

UPFRONT

20... DERREN BROWN 22... GIFT GUIDE 28... STYLE LIST 50... CRITICAL LIST 60... AUDIOPHILE 64... SOCIALITE Next Edition is out:

74... LAST WORD

FEBRUARY 2015

Call us to be a part of it MANAGING DIRECTOR Kevin Urquhart Kevin@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07713 740 272 GROUP EDITOR IN CHIEF Jonathan Fraser Jon@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07725 809 654 MARKETING Caroline Spence Caroline@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07587 056 969 ADVERTISING SALES Lilith Hunt-Sheppard Lilith@sixtynine-ltd.co.uk 07975 970 711

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COVER IMAGE: BY DAVE BROWN

THE WINTER EDIT

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. ÂŠ 69 Magazine Ltd 2014/2015.

B EADY EYED Our beady eyes were caught by this lovely image of supermodel James Smith (strange that) who has teamed up with UK jewellery designer Terry Eleftheriou (terryterry). The West Midlands’ duo has now designed a nd c r e a t e d a c olle c t ion of 15-20 men’s jewellery items, terryterry4jamessmith, which has now launched and is available from www.terryterry.co.uk, priced from £49.00.

T N O R UPF

48 HOURS OF FASHION IS BACK The region’s dedicated followers of fashion will be delighted to hear about the return of one of Nottingham’s most successful events from last year.... and this year it will be all about ‘what’s hot and what’s not’ in the latest Spring/Summer collections.

2015’s 48 Hours of Fashion is gearing up for even more visitors following last year’s success, and many of the city’s bars, cafes and restaurants will be joining in the ‘fashion fun’ with special offers to celebrate.

48 Hours of Fashion will take place in the city’s iconic Old Market Square on Friday 13 and Saturday 14 March 2015. It will bring together a fantastic mix of choreographed performances, makeovers, stylist top tips and trend advice, plus there will be events and special offers in many of Nottingham’s most well-known fashion retailers.

Keep up to date about this year’s event by visiting Nottingham BID’s website - www. itsinnottingham.com, liking them on Facebook: /itsinnottingham or following them on Twitter: @itsinnottinghamitsinnottingham.com, liking them on Facebook: /itsinnottingham or following them on Twitter: @itsinnottingham

SWEET TREAT

Ooh Sugar Pie! We love Macarons and the dainty delicacies from Yipsy in Birmingham are amongst the best we’ve tasted. The perfect combination of crisp, chewy meringue and melt-in-your mouth filling that bursts with flavour are lovingly handmade, gluten free, using free-range and locally sourced ingredients. With outstanding flavours that include Chocolate Praline, Cookies and Cream, and Salted Caramel at less than 100 calories each, they’re perfect for satisfying a sugar craving without the guilt of a cupcake! Order yours online at www.yipsymacarons.com withpricesthat start from just £15 for a box of 12.

8 W E ’ R E JA M M I N ’ House of Marley products are a bit of a pet favourite of ours in the office; always stylish and delivering on performance and clarity, and these wireless headphones are no exception. The Liberate XLBT Bluetooth Overear Headphones, £169.99, promise exceptional sound quality without the wires. Perfect Christmas present, yes? www.houseofmarley.co.uk

SEXTING IS SOOO NOUGHTIES WELCOME T O T H E W O R L D OF APP ENABLED VIBRATORS!

What do you do to keep that spark alive whilst your loved one is away? Sexting? Whats App? Facetime? Well, now try the We-Vibe 4 Plus, a tiny vibrator that is App-enabled via We-Connect, that helps couples keep connected wherever they are in the world. The App enables both parties to control the vibrator spicing up that lonely hotel room or boring business trip. Available at We-Vibe.com priced at £128.00.

BECKHAM BOTTLED If the thought of David Beckham and a serious drink has you coming over all tingly, then prepare to get giddy as he’s only gone and launched his own brand of whiskey! Described as smooth, clean with delicious hints of toffee and butterscotch, this is a treat that is sure to get better with age – just like Golden Balls himself. Available at the Whiskey Shop, Cheapside, Nottingham and Great Western Arcade, Birmingham priced at £45.00. www.69-degrees.co.uk

All I Want For Christmas Isâ&#x20AC;Ś

The Perfect

Party Wardrobe Balenciaga Dolce & Gabbana Givenchy Gucci Hugo Boss Jimmy Choo Saint Laurent

Cruise 12/14 East Gates Leicester LE1 4FB

EXPANSION FOR EMMA BROWN HAIR Clarendon Park’s top hair salon, Emma Brown Hair, is starting 2015 with a bang, by opening a major salon extension. Emma Brown Hair, which has beaten all of its business targets, has now had to expand into the upstairs of its Clarendon Park Road salon, adding another five stations to the existing three. Opening in January 2015, the extension will more than double the capacity of the salon, which has been operating with a full order book and a four-week waiting list for Saturday appointments for the last eight months. In order to staff the new stations, Emma has been joined in the business by her fiancé Dennis Carrick. Dennis left his retail career and is now qualified as a stylist and will assist Emma with the business. She is recruiting for additional stylists to join the team – contact Emma at the salon for more information. Dennis said “It has been great to retrain in my 30s – you have a passion and attention to detail that grows as you mature. You also know how to deal with different sorts of people, and we get everything from children to professionals to fashionistas at our salon.” Emma has been recognised for her hard work with a Highly Commended award in the Entrepreneurial category of the LABA Women’s Awards. Emma beat a dozen high quality nominees to be recognised for her entrepreneurial spirit. She received her certificate from Nicky Morgan MP, Secretary of State for Education and Minister for Women and Equalities. Emma said “It’s such an exciting time right now. Not only are we expanding in January but we have plans to work with national charity Edgar’s Gift in Spring as well. I’d like to thank everyone who has supported us – as a thank you, we’re giving our customers a £10 off voucher for January as everyone needs a treat after Christmas!” Visit Emma Brown Hair at 140 Clarendon Park Road, LE2 3AE, Leicester or tel 0116 270 4374, email salon@ emmabrownhair.co.uk for an appointment. For more information on Emma Brown Hair visit www. emmabrownhair.co.uk or find them on Facebook and Twitter @emmabrownsalon

WOULD YOU SURVIVE THE Z O M B I E A P O C A LY P S E ? We would (smug face). We’ve been watching back-to-back ‘Walking Dead’ in preparation for 2.8 Hours Later, the live action thriller street game that allows people to dress up as either zombies or survivors to thrash it out on the streets of the second city. In this version, called ‘Ruin’, the survivors have to rescue a group of children who are essential to our species’ survival. You have to be over 18 to play and book early to avoid disappointment. Tickets start from £38 per person and are available for 9th, 10th, 11th, 17th and 18th April. To find out more, to watch the trailer, or to book tickets, go to www.2.8HoursLater. com. We’re bringing a crossbow and pretending to be Daryl.

UND NOTT O R IN A GH G N TI

its T in HE no C DO tti H W ng RI N ha ST LO m MA A .c S D om G /c UI hr D ist E m as

FREE ON-STREET PARKING From 23rd November to 25th December, on Wednesdays after 4pm and all day on Sundays and Christmas Day. Free parking is available in Zones 1, 2 and 3 when using the RingGo parking app.

FOR MORE GREAT PARKING OFFERS, VISIT WWW.ITSINNOTTINGHAM.COM

SPECIAL FEATURE

THE MAILBOX AT CHRISTMAS 12

Gather your nearest and dearest, start making your wish-list and steal yourself away at The Mailbox, as the magic of Christmas is spread throughout one of the city’s most iconic retail destinations.

There are some exciting changes happening there as they transform into a new and improved Mailbox for next year, but in the meantime its business as usual as they help to make your Christmas beautiful. Whether you’re celebrating with friends, treating family to a feast or shopping for the perfect gift, The Mailbox provides the perfect backdrop for an atmospheric Christmas day out. If it’s inspiration you’re looking for, the online Mailbox gift guide showcases their pick of the presents guaranteed to make a loved one smile. Harvey Nichols can help make someone’s Christmas magical this year, with a stunning collection of gift ideas across all departments. Treat her to this season’s latest must-haves in fashion, beauty and accessories, whilst browsing the extensive range of hampers, food and homewares for a truly indulgent festive season. For him, you’ll find a range of beautiful leather goods, watches and technology, as well as some extra special stocking fillers to unwrap. Give yourself the gift of a new winter wardrobe this year too thanks to Harvey Nichols and Emporio Armani, where you’ll find smart suits and luxurious ties alongside beautiful party dresses and embellished heels to help you stand out of

the crowd and get you in the mood for the party season. Christmas party planners can revel in the choice of restaurants available at Mailbox, each offering a tantalising yuletide menu to celebrate in style. From Gourmet Burger Kitchen’s ‘Blitzen Burger’ washed down with a delicious Nutella milkshake, to Bar Epernay’s three-course set menu featuring all the classics with a twist, there’s something to ensure the whole team can enjoy a festive feast.The idyllic canal-side location has you perfectly placed to enjoy some Christmas drinks as you put the merry into ‘Merry Christmas’. Whether it’s a winter warmer at Starbucks, sampling a seasonal cocktail or raising a glass of champagne to toast another fantastic year, you’ll find it all at Mailbox. If you’re in need of some party season pampering, there’s plenty on offer at the Nicky Clarke and TONI&GUY Essensuals salons, as well as a head-to-toe festive special at Malmaison’s Le Petit Spa. Relax and unwind ahead of the big day with full body exfoliation, hot stone back massage, scalp massage and foot and ankle massage, teamed with a boozy hot chocolate; it’s the perfect way to begin your Christmas break.

So make the most of the festive season this year with a little help from Mailbox. Take a look at the official Mailbox gift guide at www.mailboxlife. com and keep an eye out for the official mobile app, launching in early 2015. www.69-degrees.co.uk

STE AL YOURS ELF AWAY

Still open, still luxurious, as we build a better Mailbox. Bar Epernay • Bar Estilo • Café Rouge • Côte Brasserie • Emporio Armani • Gourmet Burger Kitchen • Harvey Nichols • Harvey Nichols Espresso Café Harvey Nichols Perrier Jouët Champagne Bar • Malmaison • Malmaison Brasserie • Miller & Carter • Nando’s • Nicky Clarke • Pennyblacks Pizza Express • Red Peppers • Strada • The Oriental • Toni & Guy • Zizzi • Ramada Hotel • H2O Car Valeting • Tesco Express • BBC Birmingham

Cl ot h i n g a n d m a k e - u p b y H a r ve y N i c h o l s . H a i r b y N i c k y Cl a r k e .

WIN A HOT CHOPPER! Retro classic bike the Raleigh Chopper is back with a bang. Bringing that 1970s vibe to streets and back yards everywhere the Chopper is the coolest ride this Christmas. This limited edition bike features three gears, a fat rear tyre, large bench seat and a set of ape hanger handlebars. The updated Chopper Hot One is a modern take on a classic and is suitable for age 7+

The Raleigh Chopper is currently on sale at £199 available from Halfords. com. And what’s more, you can get your hands on every ‘70s childhood dream Christmas present as those lovely people at Halfords have given us one to giveaway. Visit www.69-degrees.co.uk to enter.

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WISHING YOU A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A FABULOUS 2015

TONI&GUY, 15 Market Street, Leicester, LE1 6DN Tel. 0116 249 5790 www.toniandguy.com

IT’S A MAN’S WORLD AT BARBER’S LOUNGE, BARRIE STEPHEN HAIR If you haven’t visited the Barber’s Lounge chez Barrie Stephen Hair then you are missing a trick. This is the last word in men’s styling in Leicester. Decked out with gorgeous red snakeskin leather chairs, rustic looking wooden shelving (complete with a fully stocked fridge if a client should want a cheeky beer), as well as full ceiling to floor length mirrors. It’s where Michael Palmer, master barber, heads up the men’s team. It’s great for both walk in if you need a quick, no fuss spruce up…..or pre-book if you prefer. Barrie Stephen owner of this award winning salon says. “We get a lot of passing gents from town returning

to their jobs in the legal and financial quarter as well as those on their way into the busy shopping street. The minute you arrive you’ll feel right at home with our men’s zone which has all the trimmings and our own fridge and coffee area – this month we’ve introduced delicious protein shakes for the health conscious. Pitched at Leicester’s men who want a great experience with the minimum of fuss, this service strikes the perfect balance in the half an hour service. Just pop into the salon at 12 King Street, Leicester for an experience you’ll want to repeat again and again and again…. www.barriestephenhair.co.uk

SELFIE TASTIC As a nation we are obsessed with taking selfies. But we’ve all been there; you gather your mates around your for that massive group Selfie, you’re reaching for that button... And damn! You’ve just cropped yourself out! The Click Stick from Menkind costs just £19.99 and makes taking Selfies a whole lot easier! There’s no need for Bluetooth, pairing or batteries, simply, plug your Smartphone into the headphone socket, strike a pose and click the stick! Available at Menkind Leicester, Nottingham and Solihull.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

# fashion48

hours 0f fashion 2015

ITâ&#x20AC;˛s BACK march 2015

Fri 13 & sat 14

itsinnottingham.com

ELECTRIC: PROMISING TO LIGHT UP BIRMINGHAM IN EXTRAORDINARY F A S H I O N

A sure sign the clubbing economy is in overdrive is the launch of a new venue and there is none much bigger than Electric on Hurst Street. The former Oceana has been overhauled to give clubbers the best of bigroom and boutique clubbing under one roof. Electric is a new destination in surroundings which exude power and excitement. Past the velvet ropes, guests will escape into an atmosphere where music, light, sound and service converge, creating a setting unique in Birmingham. As the weekend approaches the amazing sound system is powered up for some of the county’s best DJs and the people of Birmingham can dance beneath a dazzling light show and lounge at VIP booths. If the recent appearance of Ricky Ross is anything to go by, they are sticking to their words. “This is what Birmingham has been waiting for,” said Amo Taib, General Manager at Electric , “something powerful and exciting, somewhere where you can enjoy a night out with smaller or larger groups.” Electric Club is @ Hurst Street, Birmingham. Tel 0121 643 6882 www.electric-birmingham.co.uk or facebook.com/pages/Electric-Birmingham

G E tting PERSONAL AT S elfridges Selfridges Birmingham is making gifts extra special this year by offering a range of personalisation options to give gifting a unique and personal twist. Personalisation services this year range from embroidered cashmere scarfs, fun personalised jars of Nutella and Mr. Men prints, to the real Santa Sack - with yours or your loved one’s name on it. Foodies aren’t left out in the cold as there’s also personalised chocolate from Be Mighty Fine and a team of calligraphers and engravers will be in store every weekend in December, to pen special Christmas wishes on your extra special gifts. www.69-degrees.co.uk

NEW YEAR CHANGES AT MALMAISON

Not long after the clock strikes midnight, the team at Malmaison will get to work on creating a shiny new Bar and Brasserie ready for your 2015 celebrations. A complete overhaul of the hotel’s first floor, this will include a brand new dining area complete with booths and a revamped Private Dining Room. The newlook Chez Mal will be finished by the end of January and will welcome a new Frenchinspired menu, whilst also serving signature dishes like the New York Strip Steak and Mac ‘n’ Cheese.

Alongside this, the Bar will also be transformed with the removal of the existing red columns and raised seating area. The main change will be an entrance direct from The Mailbox Mall, making it even easier to stop by for a cocktail whilst enjoying some designer retail therapy. The outside entrance will remain, and the patio will also undergo a slight makeover in the hope of some early spring sun. This work will take

Birmingham’s boutique hotel is planning on some big changes in the New Year and you’re invited in to see the fantastic new-look hotel.

place throughout January and by mid-February you should be able to raise a glass to the new Mal Bar. If you’re planning to stay overnight, 30 Club rooms will also get a makeover with the introduction of coffee machines and uber-comfy Eames Chairs. With a swanky new interior, including comfy cushions, fur throws and luxurious new carpets, these rooms will have people lining up at the doors.

Fear not, though, Malmaison will remain open during the works so you can still enjoy your breakfast meetings, quick lunches, after work drinks and big dinners.

Malmaison Birmingham, The Mailbox, 1 Wharfside Street, B1 1RS. Tel 0844 693 0651 www.malmaison.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

THE MULTI-AWARD WINNING ACKNOWLEDGED MASTER OF PSYCHOLOGICAL ILLUSION, DERREN BROWN, IS BACK WITH A BRAND NEW ONE-MAN SHOW. MIRACLE PROMISES TO BE DERREN’S MOST AMBITIOUS SHOW TO DATE, ALTHOUGH THE CONTENT OF THE SHOW REMAINS SHROUDED IN MYSTERY SIXTYNINE DEGREES CAUGHT UP WITH HIM TO TEASE OUT SOME DETAILS OF THE SHOW.

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21 Early days, but what can you tell us about Miracle? Not much yet. The way my schedule works is that the title and poster are decided and the tickets go on sale before I’ve the slightest idea of the content. It’s always a bit disarming having people tweet pictures of their tickets they’ve saved up for when I have no idea what’s going to happen after I walk out on stage. I do have a sense of the overall sweep of the show - ‘Miracle’ refers to the miracle of life. That’s probably about all I can say for now. It’s an evocative title and will provoke reaction from religious groups. Was that intentional? Not in the slightest. If someone’s upset by the word ‘Miracle’ then that’s not my problem! How provocative the show will be, or if it will even concern religion, I don’t yet know. Maybe a bit. Infamous was received with universal acclaim from press and audiences alike. Any pressure? It’s always the same pressure, and no pressure. If you try to ‘top’ your previous work all the time, you just go mad and the work suffers. It’s important to keep rooted in the present – what do I feel is worthwhile? What do I want to say? What would be fun and amazing for a few thousand people trapped in a room with me? – while keeping an eye out for what you’ve done before so you’re not repeating yourself untowardly. Other than that the brief is always the same: over-deliver. Infamous was seen as your most ‘personal’ show to date. Can we expect an autobiographical ‘voice’ in Miracle? Maybe. I think it will be more philosophical. I can imagine bringing in more of the thinking I find interesting and worthwhile, although like a good stand-up you have to use yourself as a means of deflection otherwise it can become preachy. Infamous did touch on that area of saying something hopefully worthwhile and at the same time remaining vulnerable. That’s a powerful combination , I think. This is your 13th year on the road. What is the enduring appeal for you? Two things. The performance of the show is a delight every night. No matter what sort of a day I’ve had, it leaves me feeling fantastic. That’s all to do with the adrenalin, and making sure when I write the show that I’m not putting anything in there I won’t actually enjoy doing on the night. Secondly, I have my days free to read, write and take photos. This is a big thing for me. I lived ten years in Bristol when I got started, with nothing but the odd magic gig to take up my time. I miss some of that, now that I have a lot of contractual responsibilities to keep me very busy almost all of the year. So having my days free to pootle is fantastic, and the fact I’m in a different city each week keeps it always interesting. I like moving about, and I like being with the pals I tour with. What’s been your ‘best and worst of times’ on tour? Best may have been going out with my Leica last year and discovering street photography. Worst is any period when I get run down. I do everything to keep in good health and rest my voice, but sometimes of course it and I get tired. It’s a funny thing – I feel the whole show through my voice. If it’s strong, I feel the show has been strong. If it’s crackly or weak, I feel the show is the same. I’ve had to abandon signings after shows now to make

sure it’s always in the best possible shape. That worked last year, it made a real difference. You’ve started seriously taking photos on tour and a selection is currently on display at the Rebecca Hossack Gallery. What was the initial inspiration? I’ve always had an interest in photography but it was the Leica camera I bought that changed everything. Leica invented the compact 35mm camera and the design has barely changed since they did. It’s very simple and discreet and you feel you understand it in a way that you never do with other digital cameras with their endless pages of menus. Then once I got going, my experience of being out and about on the street changed from one of keeping my head down to feeling open and connected and very interested in everyone and everything. That’s a very lovely feeling. And without provoking a mass vomiting, the point of street photography for me is about finding those moments of beauty that exist in the relationships between people and their environments, so it couldn’t be any more of a pleasure to do. Even if the pictures are terrible and don’t reflect any of that, the process is a huge delight. Your new book on happiness… Is this still a work in progress? Yes. It’s another source of huge pleasure. I think I’m at my best when I’m getting my head around a subject. The ideas I’m finding and exploring for this book through my own reading are very rich and I’m in no rush to finish it. I imagine I’ll be handing it in for publication at the end of 2015. Can you tell us of your future TV plans? Can we expect to see more specials on Channel 4? I took a bit of a break this year, so didn’t do any specials for TV after touring other than the broadcast of Infamous. I have a few plans for next year but as ever, can’t really say… Looking back over the years, do you have a favourite TV special you’ve done? Apocalypse and Hero At 30,000 Ft. The fun of setting up and executing what were essentially huge practical jokes, and the impact the shows made on their protagonists’ lives, made them my personal favourites. I’ve remained close to both of the guys involved and they continue to do well. Do you think the magic genre can continue to break boundaries? Of course, but it depends on the clear vision of the performer. Magic is a very childish thing at heart: the quickest, most fraudulent route to impressing people. And it’s based in dishonesty. So you have to work harder to make it have artistic merit or relevance. To do anything genuinely original with it you can’t only be thinking about tricks. Penn and Teller are a good example of having a bigger agenda while remaining true to their job of producing the strongest magic they can, and it makes their work great and keeps them, at 59 and 66 respectively, consistently fresh and interesting. You can see Miracle at The New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham from the 30th March to the 11th April and at De Montfort Hall, Leicester from the 29th June to 4th July. For tickets visit www.atgtickets.com or www.demontforthall.co.uk www.69-degrees.co.uk

Christmas FOR HER GIFT GUIDE 1

4 6 5 1.Kenzo Tiger iPhone 5 cover £30, Selfrdiges, 2. Luxe Faux Fur Bando, £15.00, Accessorize, 3. Viewquest Retro Mini DAB radio with Bluetooth £59.95, Selfirdges & Amazon, 4. Christmas gift sets from Aromatherapy Associates from £28 for the Bath Jewels set, 5. D1 Daringly Dry London Gin, £39.95 Harvey Nichols, 6. Selfridges. Exclusive. MCM Mini Gold Stuffed Back. £995, 7. Pandora Santa Claus Charm £45.00, Argento, Nottingham, 8. Skullcandy-Knockout Headphones £80 Next, 9. HN Fashionista hamper, £85 Harvey Nichols, 10. Tigi Bed Head Party Girl Unleashed Christmas Set, , £29.95 TONI&GUY

ones eadph floral h d as “These llcandy soun !” ku from S as they look good

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1. Green & Blacks Connoisseur Chocolate Collection £17.99, 2. Bracelet £15, Filthy Rich, Derby, 3. Lily O’Brien Chocolate Indulgence Collection £12.95, The Treat Kitchen, Nottingham, 4. Roku Streaming Stick £50 Currys, 5. Snakeskin Box Bag £19.99 H&M Pavilions, 6. First Lady Earrings £49, First Lady Ring £52, Jacqueline Kennedy Collection, Filthy Rich, Derby, 7. Alphabet Bag. The Fairest Of Them All. £22.00 Selfridges, 8. Grasse set £20.00 LOccitane Pavilions, 9. Hot chocolate mug set £8 Next, 10. Lola Rose necklace, £80 Harvey Nichols.

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www.69-degrees.co.uk

Christmas FOR HIM GIFT GUIDE 1

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“AMPLIFIED HEADPHONES FOR AMAZING, ACOUSTIC SOUND QUALITY”

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1. Paul Smith striped wool scarf, £65 Harvey Nichols, 2. Archos 80 Helium 4G Tablet www.archos.com £199, 3. L’ Occitan Star Gift £49.50 L’Occitane Pavilions, 4. Mo Fi Blue Amplified headphones - awesome natural analog sound £275, 5. Retro Diner Popcorn Maker £24.99, 6. vívofit, red, from £99.99, Garmin, 7. HN Say Cheese hamper, £125, 8. Wax Cotton quilted-ride cap, £48, Velobici, 9. Paul Smith pencil cufflinks, £75, 10. Chocolate star tin £10.00 M&S, 11. Mipow Playbulb - an LED lightbulb and bluetooth speaker in one and all controllable from your iphone £53.99 Selfridges, 12. Dsquared² iPhone 5 case, £70, Harvey Nichols, 13. Police Anaconda watch £165.00, 14. Bulldog Mens skincare gift sets from £8 Boots, 15. MCM Stark M Collection backpack, £685 Harvey Nichols, 16. Bose, Soundlink Colour £119.95, Around Sound, Leicester. www.around-sound.co.uk, 17. Braun Waterflex Wet and Dry Shaver £79.99 Boots, 18. Tipplesworth Old Fashioned Cocktail Case, £185, Harvey Nichols.

12 “SAY CHEESE HAMPER”

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CHRISTMAS IS A TIME FOR GOOD CHEER AND WHAT BETTER WAY TO CELEBRATE THE BIG DAY THAN WITH A HAMPER OF TWELVE WINES TO REALLY GET YOU IN THE MOOD. FROM A TREAT-YOURSELF-TIPPLE AFTER A DAY IN THE SALES, TO A SEE-IN-THE-NEW YEAR TOAST, THESE WINES HAVE GOT YOUR BACK. TO BE IN WITH A CHANCE OF WINNING, SIMPLY HEAD OVER TO WWW.69-DEGREES.CO.UK AND HEAD TO COMPETITIONS. 1

BE QUICK, OR WE'LL DRINK 'EM. 1.The Jacob’s Creek Twin Pickings Pinot Grigio includes a dash of Moscato Bianco for a subtle hint of sweetness. RRP: £7.49

2. The Campo Viejo Reserva has a smooth balance of flavours from cherries, black plums and blackberries to clove, pepper and coconuts. RRP £11.79

3.The Jacob’s Creek Classic Sangiovese is an Italian grape variety grown in Australia where the sunshine creates an even fruiter version of this Italian classic.RRP: £8.09 4. The Jacob’s Creek Fiano has tropical fruit salad flavours with a hint of apricot and fresh lemongrass. RRP: £8.09

5. The Brancott Estate Terroir Series Sauvignon Blanc features strong flavours of fennel and apple combined with ripe grapefruit.RRP: £12.49 6. New from Brancott Estate, this Sauvignon Gris offers fresh flavours including luscious pear, blackcurrant and nectarine with a lengthy citrus finish. RRP: £10.49

7. The Campo Viejo Gran Reserve, a, adelicious Rioja which is ruby red in colour and full of the flavours of ripe red berries with a hint of spices at the end. RRP: £16.29 8. The Brancott Estate Classic Pinot Noir exhibits a delicate mix of red cherry and dark berry fruit notes with a slightly spicy finish. RRP: £12.39 9. The Jacob's Creek Reserve Chardonnay has dark berry and chocolate flavours and smells just like the traditional Christmas fruit cake. RRP: £10.49 10. The Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Shiraz is the ideal post-dinner fizz and offers generous flavours of blackberry and a soft, velvety finish. RRP: £10.39 11. The Graffigna Centenario Malbec is a complex and rich red wine with dark berry flavours and a hint of black pepper.RRP: £9.99 12. The Jacob’s Creek Sparkling Chardonnay Pinot Noir has classic citrus flavours with a delicate crisp finish. RRP: £10.39 www.69-degrees.co.uk

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WINTER BRINGS WITH IT AN OPPORTUNITY FOR EVERY FASHIONISTA TO FLEX THEIR FASHION MUSCLES THANKS TO A FLURRY OF INVITES. TIME TO GET DRESSY PEOPLE. STREET STYLE

STYLE HER

BEAUTY

STYLE HIM

GROOMING

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TYLE

Matt FARRAH WATTS

FREYA BUTLER

FRASER STREATFIELD

Photography by Ryan Garwood (www.ryangarwood.com)

ABBIE DARCH ASHLEY HAY

KATE HALGARTH

DORIS LUXIANG LIANG

mix your textures

StreetStyle

THE CITY OF NOTTINGHAM HAS TEXTILE MANUFACTURING WELL AND TRULY IN ITS ROOTS SO IT’S NO SURPRISE NOTTINGHAM TRENT UNIVERSITY IS CARRYING THE MANTLE WITH DESIGN FOCUSED, INDUSTRY ALLIGNED KNITWEAR DEGREE COURSES AT UNDERGRADUATE AND POSTGRADUATE LEVEL. TO MARK THE RECENT KNITTING NOTTINGHAM EXHIBITION, THE SIXTYNINE DEGREES’ STYLE POLICE WENT ON CAMPUS ON THE HUNT FOR STYLISH STUDENTS WHO LOVE THEIR KNITS.

31 JULDA MAKUN DI

JAN GUO

KNITTING NOTTINGHAM

RYAN GARWOOD

Momoka Gowi

Knitting Nottingham is a richly diverse collection of the futuristic and the retrospective; that challenges the popula r perceptions of knitting, s h o w c a s i n g c r e a t i v e design, art, technology and research. As part of Nottingham Trent University’s 170 Years of Art and Design event series, the exhibition celebrated the transformational role played by Nottingham in the growth of the knitting industry and embraces the future of knit technology. Popular notions of knitting seem to revolve around ‘grannies’but this exhibition demonstrated that t h i s cosy perception is far from the whole story.

OKSANA HOLBROOK

LOVE A big scarF! GILLES WERBROUCK

Find out more about Art and design courses at Nottingham Trent University by visiting: www.ntu.ac.uk/art To find out more about 170 years of Art and Design visit www.ntu170years.co.uk www.69-degrees.co.uk

S T Y L E her

LBD

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From desk to disco and cocktail couture; it’s party time.

THE DRESS

1.LBD from £30 River Island, 2. ALISA DRESS £149 Monsoon, 3. Forever Unique Shelby Dress Blue, £100, Cruise Fashion, 4. Alice + Olivia jacquard dress, £345 Harvey Nichols, 5. Gucci Leather Strap Dress, £990, Cruise Fashion, 6. Vintage style Lace Dress £85 Urban Outfitters, 7. Moschino Cheap and Chic silk organza dress, £595 Harvey Nichols , 8. Glitter Bodycon Dress £24.99 New Look, 9. Hira Embellished Shift Dress, Emerald £179, Reiss, 10. Lace dress £129 Monsoon, 11. Michael Kors sequinned dress, £250 Harvey Nichols

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It’s all about the length; long and chunky, what do you prefer?

thin or short and

BOOTY CALL

34 N AT I O N A L £115 Office

Red Boots £99 H&M

DKNY Naria Boots, £124, Cruise Fashion

Shaper - £169 Dune

fly London knee high boots £139.99 Tinfish Shoes

‘Shop Shop Shop’ in Birmingham this Christmas With over a 1,000 stores bursting with gifts, including over 100 independents offering something unique, Birmingham is the perfect place to immerse yourself in Christmas shopping, find the perfect party outfit and indulge in some of the hundreds of bars and restaurants along the way. Make a day of it with an abundance of festive treats to enjoy, including the House of Fraser magical Christmas Grotto and late night shopping at Bullring from 1 December. Enjoy Christmas events at M&S, 3 for 2 gift offers across Boots on High Street and explore the wonderful Frankfurt Christmas Market on New Street. Look out for festive events at The Mailbox. Shop for beauty, fashion and seasonal hampers at Harvey Nichols and enjoy dining with a view in one of the many canalside restaurants and bars. For more shopping news, offers and events visit ShoppinginBirmingham.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

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BEAUTY

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IN THE RED

All products are available in Beyond Beauty and the Space.NK Apothecary at Harvey Nichols Birmingham or can be ordered online at harveynichols.com

1: Benefit Benetint, £24.50. 2: Butter London Lippy lip gloss, £14. 3: Charlotte Tilbury matte lipstick in Red Carpet Red, £23. 4: Deborah Lippmann nail lacquer in Red Silk Boxers, £18. 5: Dr Hauschka lip liner in Warm Red, £14.50. 6: Dr Hauschka Novum lipstick (02), £16.50. 7: Laura Mercier lip glaze in Bon Bon, £19.50. 8: Marc Jacobs Dot EDP (50ml), £50. 9: NARS Audacious Lipstick in Lana, £24. 10: NARS lip liner in Nihiwatu, £18. 11: NARS Matte Multiple in Poppy Red, £30. 12: Ole Henriksen African red tea exfoliating lip salve, £12.50. 13: Only Fingers + Toes nail lacquer in Rouge Noelle, £16. 14: OPI nail lacquer in Thrill of Brazil, £12.

Take your inspiration from the catwalk and ensure your makeup bag is filled with AW14’s hottest colour palette. HELEN GOUGH, Manager of Beyond Beauty at Harvey Nichols Birmingham, reveals her must-haves to ensure you’re red carpet ready this Christmas. 3

ÂŁ10 OFF IN JANUARY Bring this advert in or quote the code:10140

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M A K E YO U R

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S T Y L E him

Marc Jacobs

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PARTY ON

Get your ass outta those jeans and into something slimfit. Suits with sixties-style stovepipe slacks are key for this season’s celebrations. 7 5

6 Wear your trews with a cropped around the ankle tlesbulky brogue a la early Bea ’t go won you and go Rin nk Thi Wrongo

STYLE 8

TIP:

9 1.McQ Alexander McQueen Tuxedo Jacket, £535 Cruise, 2. Blazers from £85, Topman, 3. Burton Menswear London White Formal Shirt £22, 4. Vivienne Westwood Man Tapered Wool Trousers, £215, Cruise Fashion 5. Silk Handkerchief £12.99 H&M, 6. Dsquared² lamé jacket £1245, Harvey Nichols, 7. Alexander McQueen silk bow tie £110, Harvey Nichols 8. Selected Homme Blazer £110, Urban Outfitters, 9. Versace Medusa cufflinks £120, Harvey Nichols, 10. Moss London Navy Shawl from £129 www.69-degrees.co.uk

FAIR ISLE CONVENTION If last year’s Christmas jumper didn’t survive the spring closet cull then it’s time to invest in a little bit of irony. The key this year is embellishment. 1

1.French Connection Hound Ombre Wool Jumper, £75 Cruise Fashion, 2. Kenzo wool blend intarsia jumper, £275, Harvey Nichols, 3. Christmas Robin Jumper £25 M&S, 4. Christmas Jumper £35 River Island, 5. Dsquared² wool blend intarsia jumper, £380, Harvey Nichols, 6. Reindeer Jumper £25 M&S, 7. Christmas Jumper £35 River Island, 8. John Smedley Fair Isle jumper, £155, Harvey Nichols, 9. Wood Wood Bob NAAvy Sweater, £119, Cruise Fashion

BROGUE TRADER

1.Jeffery West Scarface Brogues, £205, Cruise Fashion, 2. Paolo Vandini Wainscott wine £79.99 Tinfish Shoes, 3. Brogues £55 Next at The Fort Shopping Park, 4. Vivienne Westwood Accessories Oxford Brogues, £315, Cruise Fashion, 5. Paul Smith Brogue £295, Harvey Nichols.

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I WAS TERRIFIED. ALL I HEARD WAS CANCER. BUT THANKS TO TEENAGE CANCER TRUST, I KNEW I WAS GOING TO BE OK. When Charlotte was diagnosed with cancer, we were able to give her expert care and support as she fought for her life. There are other young people, just like Charlotte, who are terrified right now and need our support too. As the only UK charity who does what we do, we need your help to be there for them.

PLEASE DONATE TODAY Text TEENS to 70300 to donate £3 and The Body Shop will match your donation*. You can also make a donation in any of The Body Shop stores or online at teenagecancertrust.org/charlotte

This advert has been donated. *Donation match runs to 31st July and is capped at £20,000. The donation will cost £3 plus a text message at the standard rate. Teenage Cancer Trust (Registered Charity no: 1062559, SC039757) will receive 100% of every donation. Please ensure you have the bill payer’s permission before making this donation. Photo by Ashley Jouhar

GROOMING DSQUARED2 WILD EDT, £59 (100ML) Launched exclusively at Harvey Nichols, this scent is exactly what you’d expect from such a cult fashion brand – modern and manly! Opening with the aromatic freshness of santolina and vibrant resin, there are distinctive notes of opoponax myrrh and amber.

THIS COMPANY MOLECULE 03, £69.50 (100ML)

FESTIVE FRAGRANCES Guarantee a queue under the mistletoe with the most stylish signature scents. JOHN PAUL MCGUIRK, PRIVATE SHOPPER AT HARVEY NICHOLS, selects his favourite fragrances for the festive season.

As with its predecessors, 01 and 02, Molecule 03 is an homage single homagetoa to the a single scent ingredient, or aroma-chemical. Celebrated perfumer Geza Schoen takes niche fragrance line back to its roots with an androgynous masterpiece.

VALENTINO UOMO EDT, £46 (50ML)

Aromatic and smooth, the notes are bergamot and myrtle; roasted coffee beans, chocolate and hazelnut; and leather and cedar. The result is a super sophisticated scent. www.69-degrees.co.uk

TOM FORD OUD FLEUR EDP, £215 (100ML) Yet another gem from Tom Ford, this fragrance has been created with two deeply iconic Arabian ingredients: flowery rose contrasted with oud, the most prized wood in perfumery. It’s noble, luxurious and distinctive ... exactly what a signature scent should be.

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NEW YEAR S T Y L E SPECIAL

image by andydouglasphotography.co.uk

AH, NEW YEAR. TIME FOR DRUNKEN RESOLUTIONS AND RESOLVES TO CHANGE OUR DASTARDLY WAYS AND FINALLY DO SOMETHING ABOUT THE JOB WE HATE, THE RELATIONSHIP THAT’S DOOMED, THE SAME HAIRCUT WE’VE HAD SINCE UNI AND THAT LITTLE BIT OF A TUMMY THAT SEEMS TO BE TAKING ON A LIFE OF IT’S OWN. WE LOOK AT 3 AREAS OF LIFE ENHANCING CHANGE TO HELP MAKE SURE YOU KEEP YOUR RESOLUTIONS THIS YEAR.

THE

FEMININE

"For many, the idea of a traditional tattoo parlour can be daunting; big burly blokes, questionable music and catalogues of overused images that have been done to death. It’s hardly a recipe for success or confidence" says 'Jibber Jabber Jo' at Inkling Tattoos - one of Leicester's busiest and most credible tattoo studios that, unusually, is at the vanguard of tattoofeminism.

To explain, there has been an exponential growth in female tattoo artists - and visible female tattoos - in recent years. In an age of equality, this seems more than coincidence - and both Jibber Jabber and fellow (female) tattooist, Katie Henly agree: "At Inkling, we see ourselves as artists, first and foremost, irrespective of our gender. That said, some women prefer the idea of being tattooed by another woman, as they can bring a natural femininity to the design.” Jo and Katie make up one half of the team at Inkling and have achieved massive critical acclaim in a relatively short space of time. Under the guidance of Neil Anderson, the girls have a combined ink-on-skin heritage of over ten years. Jo cites "Realism and Nature", as her two areas of specialism. Katie opts for "Dot

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TOUCH

work and colourful cartoons", although both are keen to point out that their high levels of training and art backgrounds mean that the only limit is your imagination. "Inkling is perfect for those wanting a customised and individual piece of artwork. Every tattoo is an individual piece influenced by the person being tattooed, their likes and interests and, of course, the artist", says Katie. See Katie and Jo's Top 5 Tips for tattooing at www.69-degrees.co.uk Check out Inkling on Facebook or Instagram. Inkiling, Studio 6, 5 Burton Street, Phoenix Arts, Leicester. Tel 0116 319 2782.

T H I N O N T O P ? Hair thinning and loss. Not many people want to admit to it, let alone talk about it. In men it can be a natural and expected part of the ageing process, however for women it can be a taboo subject. According to Jon Levy from TONI&GUY Leicester it need not be the beginning of the end “there are numerous reasons for hair to thin for both men and women, many of which will right themselves in time. However, in the short term, thinning hair can be managed to make the most of what you have such as Nioxin”

We have a treatment available to win courtesy of TONI & GUY Leicester.

WIN!

WHAT IS NIOXIN? It’s a 3-step treatment to improve hair thickness and growth. Salons have been using the Nioxin brand of treatments for hair loss for over 20 years. Monthly treatments are around £30 and most people notice a difference after four weeks.

For your chance to win visit www.69-degrees.co.uk

It works in three stages; cleanse, optimise and treat. The cleanse stage is similar to microdermabrasion for the scalp – it removes dead skin cells, excess sebum and product that can clog hair follicles and reduce growth. To optimise, revitalising conditioners are applied to the scalp before entering the treatment phase, where antioxidants and botanicals thicken each hair and refresh the scalp. To find out more about Nioxin contact TONI&GUY Leicester, 15 Market Street, Leicester Tel: 0116 249 5790.

WORK IT IN THE CITY

Situated in the heart of the Leicester, Spirit Health Club is an oasis of calm in the middle of a busy world. With fantastic facilities including a fully air conditioned Gymnasium, Heated Swimming Pool with children area, Sauna, Steam room & Spa pool, it’s little wonder that Spirit won UK Active's Health Club Operator of the Year in both 2013 and 2014. Sprit’s team of lifestyle consultants are on hand with a friendly welcome and to set personalised fitness goals just for you. Located at the city’s Holiday Inn, all members receive a complimentary towel upon each visit as well as 10% off health & beauty treatments, 25% off food and drink and up to 35% hotel rates. What’s more, join now and have the rest of this year’s membership for free – no need to wait for those resolutions. To find out more visit Spirit Health Club,Holiday Inn Leicester, St. Nicholas Circle, Leicester, LE1 5LX. Tel. 0116 242 8721 www.spirithealthclubs.co.uk www.69-degrees.co.uk

lov i n g langka wi Travelling to the east has never been on my bucket list but after just six days, my trip to Malaysia has not only opened my mind, but changed the way I will holiday forever writes SIXTYNINE degrees’ Kevin Urquhart.

The minute you step out of Langkawi airport, you are hit by the humidity. Our 15-minute transfer takes us past paddy fields with the obligatory grazing water buffalo and houses on stilts. It might sound naive, but I’m quickly struck that I’m somewhere very different; very foreign. A hot and steamy jungle Paradise, if you will, that is made up of 99 islands at high tide, or 105 at low tide. Langkawi - translated locally as Eagle Rock - is almost half Mangrove (tropical rainforest by the sea) and it’s widely believed that it was this island collection and Mangrove swamps that saved the island from the tsunami, when it hit at low tide. My trip begins at the Meritus Pelangi on Cenang Beach, a 35-acre beach resort and spa that sits amidst a lush tropical, beachfront location. Guestrooms and suites are housed in clusters of single and double-storey wooden chalets built on stilts. Each boast spacious verandas overlooking stunning views of the ocean (like mine) or the

surrounding landscaped gardens and pools. Step outside of the air-conditioned hotel resort and you’re transported to a different world of sounds, smells and, of course, the humidity, which can hit 90%. Authentic roti chani stalls (a local delicacy a bit like a very light naan with fried egg centre) is yours for around 4.50 ringit (roughly 90p) and rub shoulders with Starbucks, which is very much at Westernised prices so considered a luxury treat. It’s this melange and juxtaposition of clashing cultures that makes Malaysia so beguiling - and nowhere more so than the weekly Night Market in Kuah, which is a short taxi ride from the hotel. Here, hundreds of stalls sell the finest street food in to the depths of the night that has the locals out in force - always a good sign. And so cheap. But many guests of the Meritus Pelangi never leave the resort and it’s not difficult to understand why. What strikes me is the quietness, the only sound is the gentle lapping of the ocean as it caresses the white blonde sands. After a morning idly swimming and snoozing on the beach, it’s time for our al fresco cookery demonstration. Under the watchful eye of the Executive Chef, we prepare the meat and spices, herbs and natural flavourings such as Galangal (ginger variety), candle nuts and lemongrass. It was the most flavoursome, deeply spiced dish I’ve ever had the chance to eat - and I’m rubbish at cooking. Will food ever be this good again? As you get older and (hopefully) wiser, tastes change and the idea of multi-site travelling must

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49 be done in style, if it is to be entertained at all. Thankfully, our second hotel of the trip is the world-renowned, The Danna. It represents old school, 5-star, colonial splendour appealing to the international jet-set, as well as being a favourite of many visiting Royals and celebrities. The Danna is well located to take advantage of some fantastic local attractions. A must-visit is the Langkawi Cable Car, which we head straight for, as the weather can (and has) been changeable September is part of their low season, albeit that temperatures never fall below 25-degrees. It’s said that on a clear day, you can see Thailand as well as a stunning 360-degree panoramic of Langkawi from the 708meter viewing platform.

As is becoming a rule on a trip like this, simple relaxation is balanced with incredible activities and, quite possibly, the most essential thing to do whilst vacationing in Langkawi is the Mangrove trip: the yin to the yang. The 5000 years old Eco system of the Mangroves is fiercely revered and carries a UNESCO status. It’s a 4-hour, 21km round trip up the Kilim River that takes you in to the deepest Mangrove. I feel like David Attenborough, as I see native monkeys. These notorious pink-loving pickpockets are attracted to human males - it’s a testosterone thing – so avoid eye contact. Being Alpha male does come with considerable advantage: a harem to plunder that can see the number one monkey copulate 35 times in one day. Truly the King of the Swingers. Sometimes a bottle nosed dolphin will shelter in the Mangrove and this is a sure sign for fishermen that there is bad weather on its way. Sure enough, we see a school of dolphins swim around and past us and not more than thirty minutes later and we experience a monsoon storm. We take refuge and refuelling at the Hole in the Wall floating restaurant. The simple but tasty broth and chicken/rice was made all the more special by the Thunderclaps and torrential downpour: it once again reminded you were in jungle territory.

The Planters restaurant is incredible, but the portions are sized (we are later told) for the American and German markets where more is more, so either take elasticated p a n ts, w i l l p o w e r, R e n n i e s or all three. Also highly recommended is the neighbouring, Privilege restaurant, at the Marina next door. After a night of excess, I make up for it with (slightly hungover) pre-breakfast yoga on the beach. Taken under the shade of the trees, the high flying birds and the gentle lapping of waves make a stunning setting for the hour long class.

In low season aka rainy season, it’s fair to say it’s one day on, one day off when it comes to weather. But that didn’t detrimentally affect our enjoyment - where and when else do you get the enforced opportunity to go an explore? In fact, this changeable weather is perfect for discovering Langkawi, as when the sun comes out, it’s fierce. The mixture of adventure and relaxation, cooking and culture is what I will remember most about this trip and one that will inspire how I holiday (and eat) in future. After immersing myself in the Malaysian way of life an ordinary holiday will no longer do and it is with the heaviest of hearts that I bid Langkawi farewell. But not goodbye.

GETTING THERE: SIXTYNINE degrees flew to Langkawi courtesy of Singapore Airlines, which fly 4x daily to Singapore from London Heathrow and daily from Manchester. Singapore Airlines operates 118 weekly flights between Singapore and 5 destinations in Malaysia - including 5x weekly flights to Langkawi, operated by Singapore Airlines’ full-service subsidiary, SilkAir. Standard fares from London to Langkawi start from £800pprtn in economy, including taxes.

W e s t a y e d a t w w w. t h e d a n n a . c o m a n d www.meritushotels.com.

For the latest promotional fares and to book, visit www.singaporeair.com or call 0844 800 2380

Why not combine your trip with a visit to Thailand?

www.chiclocations.com offer a 1 x week holiday (ie 1 night on flight, 6 nights accommodation) at the Danna, travelling on Singapore Airlines for £1628 per person total based on 2 sharing a room, and the same period of time for Pelangi Beach would be £1488 pp total. Both based on travel May / June 2015.

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CRITICAL LI

Lincoln Townley exhibiting at Antidote Art, Lutterworth. www.antidoteart.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

IST

FROM THE SMALL SCREEN TO THE BIG STAGE, CONSOLE TO CLUB. IF IT’S WORTH SEEING,HEARING OR DOING, THEN IT’S HERE...

THE REVIEW

THE A LIST

AUDIOPHILE

SOCIALTE

LAST WORD

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DVD THE PURGE: ANARCHY

This time the ‘superior sequel’ takes us to the streets and with it brings us just as much chaos. Twelve hours of legal free-for-all crime results in a group of unkempt citizens finding themselves in the midst of violence in downtown LA which results in them being at the forefront of a rebellion. This picture starring Frank Grillo is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. BOOKS: CROSSING THE LINE UK no.1 Kindle best selling author Kerry Wilkinson brings you his ninth book to date; Crossing the Line. Based in Manchester, Jessica Daniel is a detective and this novel is set 25 years on from the Stretford Slasher that terrorised the inhabitants of her town. Jessica now has a new case to deal with. Locals are being targeted in broad daylight with the attacker unphased about being caught. This book is packed with secrets that should have been buried years ago. DVD: THE RIOT CLUB

This drama thriller from the director of An Education sees two first-year students at Oxford University join the infamous Riot Club, where reputations can

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be made or destroyed over the course of a single evening. With likeness to A Clockwork Orange and Lord of the Flies, Scherfig delivers a satisfying portrait of the savagery prowling beneath fine breeding. CINEMA: ELECTRICITY in 2010. This episode of a series legendary in the gaming world sees the return of Lara Croft as an explorer with the game making references to Egyptian myths throughout. Available December 10th TV: BLACK MIRROR Directed by Bryn Higgins, his film is powerful visually and emotionally. Lily is a young woman (Agyness Deyn) with epilepsy who experiences powerful hallucinations whilst on the hunt for her long lost brothers. Remarkable visuals are combined with witty drama – but will Lily’s pursuits go to plan? Released 5 December. GAMES: LARA CROFT AND THE TEMPLE OF OSIRIS Lara Croft and the Temple of Osiris takes you back to the isometric adventure style seen in Guardian of Light released back

A dystopian future festive tale, that this time intertwines three stories to deliver a dramatic and thrilling twist. After the success of the previous two series Charlie Brooker is back this Christmas period with his dystopian satirical drama, which is sure to add a bit of darkness to your Xmas.

MON 9 MAR

’TOM STOPPARD’S DAZZLING MASTERPIECE’

SING-A-LONG-A

FRI 13 MAR A G 12 E S +

TUE 3 MAR

A G 16 ES +

PSYCHIC SALLY ON THE ROAD

DAILY TELEGRAPH

MON 23 - SAT 28 MAR

SUN 29 MAR

MON 30 MAR - SAT 11 APR

THE CHICAGO BLUES BROTHERS MON 20 - SAT 25 APR

SAT 18 APR

FRI 26 JUN

A D O UL N T LY S

THE DREAMBOYS

0844 871 3011

(fees apply)

GROUPS 10+ 0844 871 3031 www.atgtickets.com/birmingham

(fees

apply) www.69-degrees.co.uk

the a LIST THE FULL MONTY 16th - 21st Feb @ Theatre Royal Nottingham. 2nd -7th Mar @ De Montfort Hall, Leicester In 1997, a British film about six out of work Sheffield steelworkers took the world by storm. Now, they’re back. And this time they really have to go The Full Monty...live on stage. Simon Beaufoy, the Oscar winning writer of the film, has gone all the way with this hilarious and heartfelt adaptation that’s getting standing ovations every night. With songs from the film by Donna Summer, Hot Chocolate and Tom Jones, this multi award-winning production is one huge package of laughs and emotion coming to Nottingham direct from London’s West End starring Gary Lucy, Andrew Dunn, Louis Emerick, Rupert Hill, Martin Miller and Bobby Schofield.

SLEEPING BEAUTY Until 17th Jan @ Nottingham Playhouse

sets, mischievous fun and thrilling musical numbers that will excite the whole family.

Enjoy the magical tale of Sleeping Beauty, a princess cursed by a wickedly evil witch. Will a handsome young prince be able to save our beautiful princess and help her live happily ever after? Featuring everything you have come to love about pantomimes such as dazzling costumes, stunning

KASABIAN 28 - 29 Nov @ Capital FM Arena, Nottingham

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Without doubt 2014 belongs to Kasabian. They triumphantly headlined Sunday night at Glastonbury 2014. In June they played a historic hometown show in front of 50,000 people

at Victoria Park in Leicester. And now they announce a huge autumn tour including TWO dates at Capital FM Arena Nottingham.

THE NUTCRACKER 28 Nov - 13 Dec @ Birmingham Hippodrome What more could a young girl ask for at Christmas, than for all her dreams to come true? Having crept downstairs at

midnight to play with her new Nutcracker doll, Clara is swept up in a fantasy of toy soldiers, giant rats, snow fairies, magic and mystery. After saving her beloved Nutcracker from the King of the Rats, she is whisked away to an enchanted land and dances the night away in his arms, meeting a host of strange and exotic characters, before she is finally transformed into a beautiful ballerina.

Expect a magical mix of Noel's unique brand of stand up comedy, live animation, music and some of Fielding's best known TV characters (such as The Moon and Fantasy Man). Fielding's comedy has seen him perform in venues all over the world (such as The Royal Albert Hall, The Sydney Opera House and Radio City Music Hall) win numerous awards (including Perrier Best Newcomer, The Barry Humphries Award at The Melbourne Comedy Festival and The Douglas Adams Award for innovative writing) and appear on TV shows such as Michael Mcintyre's Roadshow.

A Collaborative Exhibition by Lucy Anne Harding, Hannah Stoney and Emily Notman showcasing their latest collections of textile illustrations, mixed media work, watercolour paintings, screen prints, ceramics and fabrics.

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB 3rd December @ De Montfort Hall.

IMELDA MAY 7th Dec @ Nottingham Theatre Royal

THE SOUND OF MUSIC 28 NOV- 17 JAN @ Curve

This Christmas, Leicester will come alive with The Sound of Music as Paul Kerryson directs a brand new production of the much-loved Rodgers and Hammerstein classic. Originally a hit Broadway and West End musical, then followed by the beloved 1965 movie version, The Sound of Music remains one of the most popular musicals of all time. Set against the idyllic landscape of the Austrian Alps, this heartwarming tale based on a true story follows spirited young nun Maria and her relationship with the Von Trapp family. With a timeless score including Do-Re-Mi, My Favorite Things and Climb Ev’ry Mountain, this global phenomenon continues to enchant audiences across the world.

Bombay Bicycle Club’s critically acclaimed fourth album, So Long, See You Tomorrow, captures the results of singer Jack Steadman’s picaresque adventures in the likes of Turkey and India throughout 2013. Joyously escapist, its electronicinflected and Bollywoodreferencing sound made good on the Eastern promise, as it went straight to Number 1 in the album charts (Feb 2014) and reached silver status in record time. With an expanded live line-up to cater to the ever-increasing range and complexity of their songs, this tour is not only their biggest in terms of venue, but also in terms of sound.

Lucy Anne Harding creates Textile Illustrations based on her life as a real life modern day milk girl, Hannah Stoney works in watercolour to design light hearted illustrations to brighten up contemporary homes whilst Emily Notman's work combines her love for mixing stitch, clay and found objects.

Ireland's reigning musical queen, the truly unique Imelda May, is set to return to the UK this winter for a comprehensive nationwide tour. The tour follows the release of Imelda May's latest studio album 'Tribal', which rocketed to Number 3 in the UK Album Charts and Number 1 in Ireland. Far from mellowing with her recent motherhood, Imelda sizzles more than ever with her leather-clad attitude. Tribal is as primal a rock 'n' roll record as you could ever find, infused with the spirit of Sun Studios, where the sound was born in Memphis, Tennessee - but given a 21st century twist by a girl from the back streets of Dublin.

JERSEY BOYS 9th Dec- 4th Jan @ New Alexandra Theatre, Birmingham.

WINTER WARMERS 4th Dec - 17th Jan @ Loughborough Town Hall

NOEL FIELDING 3rd Dec @ Nottingham Theatre Royal www.69-degrees.co.uk

56 The internationally acclaimed stage sensation, Jersey Boys comes to Birmingham after winning 55 major awards worldwide, including the Olivier Award for Best New Musical. Jersey Boys tells the true life story of four boys from the wrong side of the tracks who wrote their own songs, invented their own unique sound, and sold 175 million records worldwide. Featuring hit after legendary hit including Beggin’, Can't Take My Eyes Off You, Oh What a Night, Sherry, Walk Like a Man, Bye Bye Baby, Big Girls Don't Cry and many more, Jersey Boys is a story full of heart, humour and ‘sheer musical razzmatazz’ (The Sunday Express) you simply will never forget.

JIMMY CARR- FUNNY BUSINESS 12th Dec Nottingham Theatre Royal & 6th Feb @ De Montfort Hall

Jimmy’s been described as "the hardest working man in comedy". Which, let’s face facts, is not that impressive. It’s like being the "Tallest Dwarf" or the "Healthiest Glaswegian". Really not that big a deal. Funny Business is Jimmy’s brand new stand up show. Come for the witty and incisive musings on the human condition; stay for the k*** gags.

CINDERELLA 13th Dec to 4th Jan @ De Montfort Hall

www.69-degrees.co.uk

Panto is back – and it is bigger and better than before with the spectacle that is Cinderella is packed full of singing, laughter, silliness and a bit of romance – and all, of course, with a unique Lest-ah take on life. CBeebies’ presenter Alex Winters appears as the loveable Buttons, Goodness Gracious Me’s Kulvinder Ghir stars as Baron Hardup, back following her hilarious role as Spirit of the Ring in last year’s panto Aladdin.

RUSSELL HOWARD 15th Dec @ Capital FM Arena, Nottingham R u s s e l l Howard, one of our funniest and most successful comedians, will return to Capital FM Arena Nottingham for an extra date on the ‘Wonderbox’ tour! In this new show, the star and creator of the award-winning hit TV show, ‘Russell Howard’s Good News’, promises us more of his trademark brand of upbeat and razor-sharp comedy. Don’t miss the chance to see this unique comedian on his biggest tour to date; back on stage, on-top of the world, doing what he does best.

SCARLETT DAGGERS AND DÉDA: LADÉDA CHRISTMAS CABARET 18- 20 Dec @ Deda, Derby The exclusive LaDéDa Cabaret returns once again for Derby's cheekiest night out! Produced by racy redhead Scarlett Daggers and compered by lyrical lothario Stage Door Johnny, the duo host a flirtatious night of fun that will leave you hot under the collar. They will be joined by 1950s-inspired bombshell Missy Malone, and vintage WWII sweetheart Kitty Ribbons. Sultry songbird Coco Malone will serenade the audience throughout the evening.

UNCLE BEN'S FESTIVE BLOCK PARTY 18 Dec to 21 Dec, 2014 @ The Drum

After a tragic year battling ill health Uncle Ben decides it's time to change for the better. In this season of good will to all mankind he decides to get into the festive mood by inviting his very diverse neighbours round for a small gathering. With the local sound system booked to supply the music, he purchases the obligatory party hats, crackers, mistletoe and decorative lights all that's needed to complete the merriment is his witty jokes and a few bottles of rum.

THE FROZEN SCREAM 7th – 17th Jan @Birmingham Hippodrome

Based on the lost 1928 supernatural murder-mystery novel, The Frozen Scream tells the chilling tale of a group who find themselves stranded at an abandoned lodge in the depths of winter. Forced to entertain themselves, they begin to tell the tale of Jack Frost, the most terrifying of the Frost Giants. But as the story takes a shocking twist, they discover they should have heeded the early warnings to ‘beware the ice’.

DAVE'S LEICESTER COMEDY FESTIVAL PREVIEW SHOW

LUXURY COMEDY THE MIGHTY BOOSH SURREALIST FUNNYMAN, NOEL FIELDING BRINGS HIS UNIQUE BRAND OF LUXURY COMEDY ON TOUR… AND WE TALK TO HIM...

anything out, and we were doing a show about a Crack Fox and a transsexual merman with a ‘mangina’. It was pretty amazing!’ A decade after The Mighty Boosh first aired on BBC Three, Fielding has established himself as a central figure in the UK comedy scene“ Last time we were on a massive tour, we went out in Marilyn Manson’s tour bus!” Noel says. “It became like we were in Pink Floyd or something…” Once the Boosh reached its peak of fan mania, Julian Barratt wanted to take a step back out of the limelight. “It got to the stage where everyone wants a picture of you, and I don’t think Julian was comfortable with that whole ‘celebrity’ thing,” explains Fielding. He, on the other hand, threw himself into the London party scene, often spotted out and about in Camden with his showbiz pals Amy Winehouse, Razorlight, and the Geldof sisters. “I’m not very good if I don’t work; I’m a bit of a workaholic and I start going out partying, doing stupid things – I get bored very easily so I have to keep stimulating my mind,” says Fielding.

Most people know Noel Fielding best as his eccentric zoo-keeper alter ego, Vince Noir, from The Mighty Boosh. However, in the years since that particular smash hit series, Noel has continued to bring his distinctive surreal style of comedy to the stage and screen – he is about to take his show on the road with a massive UK tour, An Evening with Noel Fielding. His latest TV programme, Noel Fielding’s Luxury Comedy, was set in a café on the side of a Hawaiian volcano. The eating establishment was staffed by Andy Warhol and a chocolate finger who was also a PE teacher, as well as Noel himself, who played the straight guy to his weird and wonderful companions. “It was just like that with the Boosh,” says Fielding. “It was such a weird show, Julian [Barratt, his writing partner and co-star] and I thought it was pretty mental how big it had got, considering that we didn’t compromise on anything, we didn’t leave

“I wanted the Boosh fans to get on board with Luxury Comedy,” he says, “because I feel like I lost a few of them.” Fielding has focused his creative efforts into making An Evening with Noel Fielding into a spectacular tour. “There’s live animation, which takes ages to work out how to do, live music, brand new stand up, which I’m excited about; it’s a really complicated and expensive show – I always want to put on a show that costs as much to put on as it takes in tickets!” he laughs. As an experienced performer, Fielding has put everything he has into making this tour enjoyable and successful. “I just want people to come away thinking ‘wow, I really enjoyed that’,” he says. For both Luxury Comedy and this run of live shows, Fielding has tapped into all the resources of his comedy ‘juice’. “If this doesn’t work, I’ve got nothin’!” he laughs. YOU CAN CATCH NOEL AT LEICESTER’S DE MONTFORT HALL ON THE 25TH NOVEMBER AND NOTTINGHAM’S ROYAL CONCERT HALL ON THE 3RD DECEMBER. TICKETS ARE AVAILABLE FROM TICKETMASTER

www.69-degrees.co.uk

58 9th Jan @ De Montfort Hall

One of the must see shows of the season, this year sees the celebration of the festival’s 22nd birthday. The Preview Show features some of the best comedians around, giving a taste of what’s to come when the main festival rolls into town from 4 to 22 February 2015.

EAST IS EAST 13th- 17th Jan @ New Alexandra Theatre

Direct from the West End, one of the best ever British plays comes to Birmingham's New Alexandra Theatre starring stage and screen icon Jane Horrocks as Ella, award-winning playwright and actor Ayub Khan Din as George. Pakistani chip-shop owner George Khan – “Genghis” to his kids – is determined to give his children a strict Muslim upbringing against the unforgiving backdrop of 1970s Salford. Household tension reaches breaking point as their long-suffering English mother, Ella, gets caught in the cross fire – her loyalties divided between her marriage and the free will of her children.

UNKNOWN MALE 28 - 31 Jan @ The REP

The track looks like any other ordinary train track. Nothing to indicate what happened here. Heather loves being a train driver, but she has been off work www.69-degrees.co.uk

since the incident. Emily is in the middle of her GCSEs, but her head has been turned by uncovering unknown answers. Mark has never been able to manage emotion, especially his own. How does one family find its way through a tragedy that doesn’t even belong to them?

SPAMALOT 2nd- 7th Feb @ New Alexandra Theatre

Monty Python’s Spamalot gallops back out on tour (to the sound of banging coconut shells) as Joe Pasquale reprises his much loved role of King Arthur alongside Bonnie Langford as The Lady of The Lake and Todd Carty as Patsy. Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, Spamalot tells the legendary tale of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table and features a bevy (or possibly a brace) of beautiful show girls, witch burnings (cancelled due to health and safety) not to mention cows, killer rabbits and French people.

A.K. DOLVEN 4 Feb — 19 Apr @ Ikon Gallery, Birmingham

Solace. So begins a bittersweet, and sometimes hilarious journey as Solace swaggers and Holly tiptoes across England. Leaving her foster home behind, Solace's sharp talk helps her navigate a host of curious characters on this road trip which turns out to be more about finding herself than looking for answers.

THE SECRET DIARY OF ADRIAN MOLE 7 MAR — 4 APR @ Curve

Set in 1980s Leicester, Sue Townsend‘s The Secret Diary of Adrian Mole Aged 13 ¾, follows the daily dramas and misadventures of Adrian’s adolescent life. With dysfunctional parents, ungrateful elders, a growing debt to school bully Barry Kent and an unruly pimple on his chin, life is hard for a misunderstood intellectual who is only 13 ¾… To top it off, when new girls Pandora joins the class and captures his heart, his best friend Nigel steals hers. Can Adrian win her love and escape from his chaotic family life?

ONE MAN BREAKING BAD 25th March @ De Montfort Hall

Anne Katrine Dolven shows paintings, film, video, photography and sound installation alongside the extraordinary landscapes of fellow Norwegian artist, nineteenth century painter Peder Balke (1804–87).

SOLACE OF THE ROAD 27 Feb - 14 Mar @ Derby Playhouse

It's Holly's birthday, and she's going on a road trip to find her mum. Headstrong and streetsmart, she boldy sets out as her glamourous blond alter-ego

Join LA actor Miles Allen on a rip roaring ride through the greatest television show ever made with his super-charged, crazily accurate renditions of all the iconic characters, including Walter White, Jesse, Saul, Skyler, Hank, Walt Junior, Mike and Gus Fring. With over a million hits on YouTube, and sell out runs at comedy festivals in Melbourne and Edinburgh, Allen’s incredible impersonations break all six seasons down into one, exhilarating, hilarious tour de force performance.

by Marie Wood

AUDIOPHILE

TEN ALBUMS YOU SHOULDN’T LEAVE 2014 WITHOUT DOWNLOADING

THE WYTCHES ANNABEL DREAM READER Straight from the primal scream of album opener, ‘Digsaw’, Brighton trio Wytches’ debut throw you into a padded cell of unsettling psychedelics and only opens up the door for the gentle acoustics of the ominously titled album closer, ‘Track 13’.

FKA TWIGS LP1 LP1 is the most sensual and innovative al b u m s o f 2014 if not the decade. Operatic vocals scale industrial beats on opener ‘Preface’, juddering futuristic dnb plays out on ‘Numbers’ and ‘Two Weeks’ is the ultimate lust song. Press play and repeat.

LANA DEL REY ULTRA VIOLENCE With her red manicured nails firmly on the wheel, Ultraviolence has Lana Del Rey careering effortlessly down a boulevard of destructive love and cinematic cool to an intoxicating Lynchian soundtrack.

PERFUME GENIUS TOO BRIGHT “Don’t you kn o w your queen!” On Too Bright, Perfume Genius aka Mike Hadreas transforms his trademark whisper into a mesmerizing howl as he takes on personal demons and homophobia to a highheeled, electro glam stomp.

THE BRIAN JONESTOWN MASSACREREVELATION After the h a s h e d out haze of Aufheben, Revelation lives up to its name as it unveils BJM leader’s Anton Newcombe’s masterfulness at crafting a full long player of crisp psychedelic songs that brainwash your mind, body and soul.

FIRST AID KIT STAY GOLD Epic alt-country arrangements and the Söderberg sister’s unique heavenly harmonies beautifully tell each track’s instantly relatable story to make Stay Gold their most memorable album to date.

CARIBOU OUR LOVE Our Love delivers on Dan Snaith’s promise to make an album for everyone, especially with all-round belter ‘Can’t Do Without You’, but stays true to what Caribou is known and loved for: mesmerising, intricate beats and insanely innovative compositions.

OUGHT – MORE THAN ANY OTHER DAY ‘I reserve the right to be disgusted with life, I reserve the right to be in love with everything in sight’. Ought deliver the best lyric and debut of year with an album that tackles the magic and horror of normal life with the effervescence of post punk.

SHARON VAN ETTEN – ARE WE THERE SVE cracks open a chest of raw emotion to perfectly convey, with her reassuringly familiar velvety vocals and an accompaniment of soaring acoustics, the brutality of breakups and beauty of new love.

IGGY AZALEA – THE NEW CLASSIC Two long years since we first fell in love with Iggy Azalea’s filthy flow on ‘Pussy’, s h e released her debut album and it did not disappoint. From ‘Fancy’ to ‘Fuck Love’, The New Classic is a one two punch of power pop and rad rhymes for the ultimate knockout.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

GROWING UP IN PUBLIC

The “transitional” album reflects a change in the rapper’s sound. “It relates to the person I am now as well as the person who went through everything I have in the last 18 months,” he says. The rapper has spent his time building up an impressive collection of collaborations; each pairing coming together in an organic way. “Take ‘Love to Dance’, the first song on the first album,” he says. “It was produced by Naughty Boy with Emeli Sandé on the chorus and we did that collectively. It’s a long way from his earlier musical trysts. Despite “cutting his teeth” with weekly battles, before being crowned a freestyle champion, he isn’t tempted to climb back into the ring. “I’m kinda over the stress of that,” he laughs.

PROFESSOR GREEN

has gone from amateur freestyle rapper to a household name married to the heir of Quality Street confectionary, former Made in Chelsea star Millie Mackintosh. We spoke to Professor Green about the musical evolution displayed on his new album @Growing Up In Public’. Professor Green started competing in freestyle battles just for fun. He was signed to label The Beats after winning the £50,000 rap tournament JumpOff MySpace, having been spotted by The Streets frontman Mike Skinner. Professor Green, who earned his nickname due to the time he spent selling marijuana, has since been vocal about his struggle following the death of his father, and the new album reflects this. While many would be

nervous to have their innermost feelings exposed through their music, he sees it differently. “It’s all subjective isn’t it? It can be scary in that you’re putting a piece of yourself out there to be judged but that’s what music should be really. All the artists I’ve admired have always put themselves in their music.” In 2009 he was stabbed in the neck in a Shoreditch club and left fighting for his life. The wound narrowly missed a ceratoid artery, skimming his tattoo which spells out ‘Lucky’. Changing labels to Virgin Records, Green went on to support Coldplay on their European tour, and now holds a MOBO, an NME Award, along with critically acclaimed albums to his name. Shrugging that “I don’t wallow in self-pity,” Green calls his latest album Growing Up In Public, “a tongue in cheek look at some of the worst things have happened to me.”

Green’s busy schedule may keep him far from home. He’ll be touring the country from October and has a first year wedding anniversary to celebrate this September. Calling married life “an extension of being in a relationship,” Green says that “it means you can’t necessarily just run away from each other if sh*t hits the fan - which it hasn’t yet!” He and Mackintosh make a serious power couple; Millie is all over the fashion pages, with her own clothing line launching on September 10th. Now, the couple are considering a collaboration – “we’re about to start dropping pieces” - and Millie has hinted that the next few years will see a move to the country. It seems a world away from Professor Green’s humble beginnings, but something he’s created all on his own. Calling TV talent contests “a giggle to watch sometimes,” he says that, “Irrelevant of what your story was beforehand, I think people always see it as a shortcut.” Growing Up In Public is out now. Catch him live - 3/12 @ Rock City, Nottingham and 06/12 O2 Academy, Bimingham.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

by 2FunkyArts

AUDIOPHILE

2 F U N K Y A R T S LI VE LIST 4 December – O2 Academy, Birmingham BOYZ II MEN LIVE http://www.ticketmaster.co.uk

7 December – The Institute, Birmingham SHALAMAR LIVE + SPECIAL GUESTS www.theticketsellers.co.uk 9 December – Rock City, Nottingham METHOD MAN AND REDMAN LIVE http://www.rock-city.co.uk 10 December – Theatre Royal & Royal Concert, Nottingham Gregory Porter http://www.ents24.com 13 December – Streetlife, Leicester ASWAD / DAWN PENN / KINGJAY / THE PARADIMES LIVE www.2funkyarts.co.uk 13th December 2014 - The Hairy Dog, Derby NEVILLE STAPLE http://www.seetickets.com 20 December – Streetlife, Leicester GRANDMASTER FLASH www.2funkyarts.co.uk

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JAGGED EDGE JE HEARTBREAK II The boys are back with their eighth studio album embracing their signature sensual sound that we all fell in love with. ‘Hope’ is classic mid-tempo JE and sounds like it’s just been taken from their 90s repertoire, as does ‘Wanna Be (Romeo’). ‘Love Come Down’ and ‘It’s Been You’ set the tone of the album. Disregarding ‘Posters’ - not sure how this made it onto the album - all in all this is a classic JE album and it seems they’re giving us fans what we want to hear - the JE sound that we fell in love with back in the mid-90s. EARTH, WIND & FIRE HOLIDAY With a career spanning 4 decades this is a first for EWF: a holiday album - with a twist, and one you would want for your collection. They keep to their usual style of dynamic horn sounds and soulful vocals, but bring their own spin on holiday classics like ‘Away In A Manger’, ‘The Drummer Boy’ and ‘Jingle Bell Rock’. Standout track has to be their all-time classic September, which they’ve reworked for this album titling it ‘December’. BLACK MILK IF THERE’S A HELL BELOW Detroit born Curtis Cross - Black Milk to me and you, brings us his sixth studio album which is darker than his previous albums; talking of impending death, poverty and dealing drugs. Lead track, the self-produced 'What It’s Worth’ has to be one his finest works to date, from the vocals, strings and drums - it reflects his new beat technique, and along with ‘Detroit Dance Party’ they have made a great impact on the hip-hop scene. Legendary Pete Rock guests on ‘Quarter Water.

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. P I T C H E R & P I A N O | NOTTINGHAM THE UNITARIAN CHURCH | HIGH PAVEMENT | NG1 1HN T: 0115 958 6081| E : nottingham@pitcherandpiano.com P I T C H E R & P I A N O | BIRMINGHAM THE WATER’S EDGE | BRINDLEY PLACE | B1 2HP T: 0121 643 0214| E : birmingham@pitcherandpiano.com P I T C H E R & P I A N O | DERBY 19-20 FRIAR GATE | DE1 1BX T: 01332 206 790| E : derby@pitcherandpiano.com

SOCIAL HARVEY

NICHOLS

AW14

SHOW

Birmingham’s best dressed were certainly out in force at the Harvey Nichols A/W14 Fashion Show recently. The stylish guests enjoyed an evening of the very latest trends at the event, which was staged in the Mailbox car park. The unusual venue proved a striking backdrop to the most sought-after pieces from the likes of Saint Laurent, Christopher Kane, Versace, Dries Van Noten, Jil Sander, Lanvin, Prabal Gurang, Kenzo, and Valentino. The sold out event was sponsored by luxury car brand Lexus and those lucky enough to get a ticket were treated to a Champagne reception and car park catwalk before the chance to shop the exclusive looks in store. There was also an after-show party hosted by Nuage 25 at Marco Pierre White. “It is events like this that confirm us as the leaders in fashion in the region,” explained Richard Vickery, General Manager of Harvey Nichols Birmingham. “We opted for the unorthodox venue because we think it summed up exactly what we are about – we continue to push the boundaries, whether that’s introducing our customers to the very latest fashion talent or the cutting edge design of our new store.” Hair on the night was styled by Paul Jones, makeup was created by the team at SpaceNK and nails were by Shavata Studio. Styling was by Rachel Story.

www.69-degrees.co.uk

T H E W H I T E P E A C O C K B I R T H DAY Phil Sharpe and Charlotte Miles from The White Peacock celebrated the first anniversary of the opening of their restaurant in November with a VIP Party accompanied by a jazz saxophonist. The premium restaurant, which opened in November 2013, has had a great first year, culminating in a recent nomination for the Taste of England award at the Leicestershire Tourism Awards. The 1st Birthday Party featured Pudding - themed canapes including a Deconstructed Trifle and a White Chocolate & Raspberry Pannacotta. The White Peacock ia at 14-16 King Street, Leicester. Tel. 0116 254 7663

THE COSY CLUB COMES TO TOWN After an extensive and creative refurbishment, the former Veejay Knitwear building on Leicester’s Highcross Street opened its doors as The Cosy Club, an eccentric eaterie and bar aimed at offering visitors to the city a truly unique drink and dining experience. With a design ethos of village hall meets cricket pavilion, the former factory had been sympathetically converted in an ever so slightly way. Mismatched furniture sit against exposed brick walls whilst factory style lighting illuminates the collection of weird and wonderful vintage oil portraits and curios on the wall. We settled down on a busy rainy Saturday to sample the extensive lunch menu that very much lived up to the venue’s Cosy name by offering oodles of comfort food fayre. To start with we sampled one of the amazing sharing platters, perfect as a starter or to nibble on with a cocktail or two after work. We opted for the vegetarian platter which offered Baked Brie, delicious chimichurri falafels, babaganoush, mushroom, garlic and thyme pate, chipotle salsa and marinated olives. Delicious, although the uneven number of falafel nearly caused a table war as forks flew to grab the last one. Moving on to mains I opted for the Beer Battered Cornish Pollock with skin fried chips, minted mushy peas www.69-degrees.co.uk

and tartare sauce which was quite literally heaven on a plate thanks to the light, crispy batter encasing the creamy white fish. My dining partner opted for the French favourite of Pan fried Chicken breast with peas, onions and bacon in a creamy Dijon sauce; wonderfully warming on a rainy day and perfect with a glass of rich red wine.

Feeling full we agreed to share a dessert only to order one each anyway; a Snowball Cheesecake and a Sticky Toffee pudding with butterscotch sauce and vanilla ice cream. Topped with marshmallow the cheesecake is a chocoholic’s dream; decadently rich this could easily be shared and goes great with a long coffee. The Sticky toffee pudding appeared to hit the right note as my dining partner, despite pleading fullness, demolished the generous portion in seconds. At around £20 a head for 3 courses, our lunch was not only delicious but also great value. Add in the original, quirky surroundings and great service and The Cosy Club is proving to be a great new addition to the city’s drinking and dining scene. The Cosy Club, Highcross Street, Leicester, LE1 4NN. For reservations, menus and further details log on to www.cosyclub.co.uk

malt cross reopens

A new era has dawned at Nottingham’s historic Malt Cross, as the venue reopens its doors following a £1.7m expansion. The former music hall on St James’s Street in the city centre has been closed since May, with builders embarking on a major construction project to transform two basement levels and a 13th century cave into a new heritage, music, arts and crafts hub. The new facility includes a brand new music studio, as well as an exhibition space, which will be known as the Henderson Gallery, named after influential Malt Cross trustee David Henderson. Visitors will also see that the familiar café bar area has been restored to its former glory, with a new lounge area, refurbished stage and pavement lights in the bar floor. The work was made possible by a £1.38m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund and a variety of other donations from the likes of the Theatres Trust, WREN and the Sir John Eastwood Foundation. Commenting on the reopening, Jo Cox-Brown, chief executive of the Malt Cross Trust, said: “The rehearsal space created by the building work will allow us, and our creative partners, to work with emerging talent to build their confidence and skills, and ultimately, prepare them to make the move to our main stage as a resident act.” Coinciding with the reopening, the Malt Cross has also launched of a pop-up Victorian style Christmas gift shop from Handmade Nottingham (http://handmadenottingham.tictail.com/), which will sell a range of locally made handmade Christmas gifts and decorations in the run up to the festive season. For more information on the Malt Cross and the renovation, visit www.maltcross.com www.69-degrees.co.uk

bar f ly THE BUSIEST BAR SEASON HAS ARRIVED AND IF YOU’VE NOT MADE PLANS HERE’S A FEW IDEAS FOR YOUR CHRISTMAS AND NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATIONS AS WELL AS A LOOK OUT HOW TO MEET 2015 HEAD ON AND IN STYLE.

NYE @ pitcher & Piano

With the festive season always promising some of the biggest parties of the year, what better setting could you want than Nottingham’s beautiful Pitcher & Piano to see the New Year in, in style? The converted church is set in the heart of the historic lace market and boasts the “Biggest Free party In Nottingham” that’s promising to keep you rocking into 2015. Complete with The Disco Prophets playing classic and modern day hits, photographers, a midnight surprise and staying open till 3am. What more could a party want?! With so much going on, it’s a party not to be missed, why not get yourself on the guest list too and avoid disappointment!! Picher & Piano, Unitarian Church, High Pavement, Nottingham. NG1 1HN Tel. 0115 958 6081, Nottingham @pitcherandpiano.com www.pitcherandpiano.com

bossa

nirvana

You’ve been here at night, sampled the cocktails and partied through all of the festive season and now the New Year is here and the diet has kicked in, you don’t have to miss out on your favourite café bar in Leicester. Still serving that great barista style coffee with beans from the guys at St Martins, Bossa has become the place to spend your lunch, have a meeting or just chill out on the sofa and lose an hour or two.

Showcasing the latest sound & lighting technology, Nirvana hosts the finest events featuring all genres of music to cater for all people – hence its tag ‘exclusively for everyone,’ 7 days a week.

Open from as early as 8am serving you your morning brew, fresh porridge and delicious pastries. There’s also a great range of loose leaf teas or you can treat yourself to a Chai Latte.

Christmas parties are custom-made – there are no pre-written packages and they pledge to work closely with the organiser to ensure every detail is covered no matter if there is 2 or 200 of you. “This is more than a function room, this is a functional room with all the options to make your party stand out from the rest and never disappoint”, they promise.

There’s also a new range of delicious toasties made with locally sourced produce and hot soup with bread, meaning there’s no excuse not to visit this January. Look out for the new retail bags of coffee for sale too.

With a wide range of drinks from boutique beers, premium spirits to lush cocktails from around the world, you could always simply bring your party to their party with hostess service in a VIP area, Bed or Booth. Now that would be our idea of Nirvana this Christmas.

Bossa is @ 110 Granby St, Leicester. LE1 1DL. Tel. 0116 2559551

Nirvana is @ 20 Victoria Street, Nottingham, NG1 2EX.Tel 0115 985 9955

www.69-degrees.co.uk

HENRY WONG: THIRTY YEARS A N D S T I L L N U M B E R O N E Having been stuck for ideas for where to dine one weekend I appealed to my twitter followers for inspiration. And up popped a dinner suggestion to dine at Henry Wong’s in Harborne, which made me happier than a laughing Buddha!

vegetable won ton, steamed dumplings and mini chunks of spare ribs. These plump bits of cubed meat were juicy and much more elegant to eat than the long ribs we’re used to. As well as some sweet crispy seaweed, we enjoyed a generous portion of panfried scallops served with garlic & vinegar sauce on For 30 years now, Henry Wong has been a mainstay a platter. It's a mix that doesn't sound like it should of Harborne's culinary scene, long before the district work, but it absolutely does! gained its contemporary reputation as a hub of gastronomic delights. That a restaurant can thrive Our mains were a tasty portion of honey pepper after thirty years is testament to the constant striving chicken with Singapore noodles and a loin of lamb to the best it can be, as directed by owner Parm Rai made with chilli & garlic, which was cooked so well it and under the watchful eye of Executive Chef, Ricky was soft, moist and full of flavour. Wu. Desserts are also something of a treat; if you've a The stylish restaurant, which recently benefited from sweet-tooth, try the Salted Caramel and Chocolate a refurbishment, provides a rarefied experience: Cheesecake. As a cheesecake connoisseur, this intricately-detailed dishes are presented with a care is often the sign of a good restaurant and Henry and attention that sets Henry Wong apart from the Wong came up trumps again. The firm salted city's lesser Cantonese establishments. It's a recipe caramel mousse at the heart of the cheesecake was for success and couple this with their cocktail and a gorgeous surprise and one of the most more'ish champagne bar and you appreciate what keeps the desserts I've had in ages. I wonder if they do dessert cognoscenti coming back time and again. and coffee if you're just passing through? As is our way, we turned up half an hour late for our table (oops), but host Marianne kindly still accommodated us on this busy Friday night. The place was full within the hour and the attentive staff were bustling around as fast as they could do to please the steady stream of eager customers.

All in all, Henry Wong is a wonderful fine-dining Cantonese restaurant that leaves its rivals standing thanks to its convivial atmosphere, exceptional food and accomplished cocktails. Its thirty year heritage has given this venue a laid-back confidence - it knows who it is and what it is - and this is translated into your dining experience. For me, Cantonese food has Our ever so helpful waiter, Shine, regaled us with rarely been more exquisitely flavoured and I just kick his cocktail suggestions and offered us something myself that I had never visited sooner. fruity and bubbly to start with - a fabulous hibiscus Bellini complete with flower. Hubby had the lychee I fully intend to be back in January with the launch Margarita, decorated with a plump juicy lychee fruit, of their new season Taster Menu, which sounds which was equally wonderful. amazing: Scallop Yuk Sung; Aromatic Duck Roll; Honey Pepper King Prawn; Seabass Fillet with Henry Wong’s has a real elegance to the place, Asparagus and Sirloin Steak with Chilli & Pepper but was also very lively due to the full house this served on a bed of crispy noodles. After a week particular Friday night. The menu is mouth-watering of turkey, my tastebuds will be screaming out for with easy navigation and a mix of classic Chinese something special and what better place than Henry dishes sit alongside contemporary signature dishes Wong. Highly recommended. by the Executive Chef, if you're looking to tantalise your tastebuds! Henry Wong is at 283 High Street, Harborne, We ordered a whole manner of dim sum to begin Birmingham, B17 9QH. Tel 0121 42 77 666. www. our feast with. The platter for two consisted of crispy henrywongharborne.co.uk www.69-degrees.co.uk

t live Grea o you s ic s u like m ance ! d n a d c a d r you

e v E s ’ r a e New Y

The food will be marvellous of course, but that’s almost immaterial compared to how fabulous the atmosphere and the drinks are going to be...

A snip at £39.95 per person

Includes

• Welcome co cktail from ou r friends at Ch ase to start the ce Distillery lebrations! • Sumptuous 3 course mea l • Glass of fiz z to see the New Year in

For more information, view the menu or book online visit

www.cosyclub.co.uk

The Cosy Club 68 Highcross Street, Leicester 01164 080008 leicester@cosyclub.co.uk Parties most welcome, bring your verve and swagger.

T H E

N A T I O N ’ S

F U N N I E S T C O M E D Y FESTIVAL RETURNS FOR 2015 WITH A PACKED BILL OF TOP NAMES

DAVE’S LEICESTER COMEDY FESTIVAL Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival returns for 2015 and is bursting with events across all 19 days of the nation’s funniest festival. Running from the 4th -22nd February, the 22nd festival is set to be its biggest yet, with a record breaking number of funsters taking over more than 50 city venues, guaranteeing a bucket load of laughs for all.

Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year 2012 winner Romesh Ranganathan, Foster’s Comedy nominee Sara Pascoe, Seann Walsh, Simon Amstell, Stewart Lee, and Tony Law. American comedian Sean Kelly, star of the hit Dave show Storage Hunters, will be making his UK debut in Leicester prior to a UK tour.

Partnered for the fourth year by Dave, UKTV’s award-winning channel, Europe’s longest running comedy festival will present a programme that includes exclusive events, festival favourites, veterans of the comedy circuit, award winners, nominees and about-to-breakthrough-to-the-big-time talented young whippersnappers you can (smugly) tell everybody you saw first. Highlights for 2015 include Milton Jones, Johnny Vegas, John Thomson, Dylan Moran, and Jimmy Carr as well as shows from Brendon Burns, Carl Donnelly, Christian O’Connell, Foster’s best newcomer nominee Dane Baptiste, Felicity Ward, Foster’s Best Newcomer nominee Gein’s Family Giftshop, Foster’s Best Comedy nominee James Acaster, Joe Lycett, John Shuttleworth, Josie Long, Lucy Porter, Luisa Omielan, Mark Thomas, Mark Watson, Nick Helm, Nina Conti, www.69-degrees.co.uk

has audiences checking in year after year; this intimate sitespecific comedy experience at Hotel Maiyango. Leicester Mercury Comedian of the Year: This 21 year old competition, judged by the comedy industry cognoscenti, consistently identifies the stars of tomorrow such as Johnny Vegas, Jason Manford, Rhod Gilbert, Josh Widdicombe & Seann Walsh. Secret Comedy Tour: Can’t decide what to see? Take a chance and book your place on the tour to see three shows in one night. Old Folks Telling Jokes: Another Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival concept showcasing the skills of the funniest fogies around.

RETURNING FESTIVAL FAVOURITES INCLUDE: Comedy in the Dark: A homegrown festival creation which has gone on to delight audiences with the lights out all over the country. Senses are heightened, language takes on new life and laughter sounds even louder in the dark. Hotel D’Comedie: Another original festival creation which

Comedy Heaven: The spectacular finale show for Dave’s Leicester Comedy Festival 2014, in aid of Amnesty International and Prostaid. Some of the best acts of the festival gather to raise money for good causes and see the festival out in style.

For the complete programme of events visit www.comedyfestival.co.uk or pick up a festival guide from local venues or follow on Twitter @DavesLeicsFest

73 MIDLANDS BEST DANCE CREW

12 crews battled it out to win this year’s £1000 prize and the winner’s title, in Midlands Best Dance Crew 2014 this autumn. Taking place at Leicester’s Curve, the competition saw over 20 entries cut down to 12 by judges Kloe Dean (Blue Boy), Andi Vega (Body Politics) and Pierre Lafeyette-Marsh (Urban Jokers). This year’s winners were Addict Assassins (Leicester), who charmed the crowd and judges with their awesome moves. 2nd prize went to Alpha (Northampton) and 3rd to TXS (Leicester), with all three winners taking home trophies. Crews entered from all over the East and West Midlands and were cheered on by a sell-out audience in an incredible atmosphere.

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LAST WORD

Demerai Gray might be the Midlands’ luckiest 19 year old – not only is he the emerging star of Birmingham City Football Club’s first team but he is part of the England U19 set up AND he got Player of the Year Award from the Blues Players’ Academy. So how has he managed it? SIXTYNINE DEGREES went to find out. I bet you’re on cloud nine aren’t you? It’s just been unbelievable – as a lifelong Blues supporter, being a part of the set up, and now part of the first team, is a dream come true for me. My family live locally and their support, plus the support of the Club’s Academy system help keep you grounded. You are quite a family man aren’t you?

Win a VIP hospitality package for four people including match tickets, a threecourse meal in the Jasper Carrott Suite and a stadium tour.

WIN!

For your chance to win, visit www.69degrees .co.uk and click on competitions. For more on BirminghamCity FC, visit www.bcfc.com

Yes, I still live with my Mum and my sister, and they don’t let me get too big for my boots! I’ve been part of the Academy system since the U10s, and the club provides tremendous support. How is it to live such a public existence at such a young age? I’m very aware of my position as a role model for other young people. I’m always careful on social media, and when I go into town. Misbehaving isn’t really an option with our training schedule and the healthy lifestyle we have to lead! Who have been the main inspirations in your career so far? In the Club, Nathan Redmond has been a mentor, friend and someone to aspire to – it’s been so helpful to have those sorts of players to look up to. On a global stage, I just love Christiano Ronaldo - he’s so talented and such a star, he’s on a different level to everyone else. What has been the highlight of your career to date? Oh, my first goal for the First team definitely! It was last season against Blackburn, and it wasn’t a 30 yard strike or anything, but it trickled across the line and it was the proudest moment of my life What do you like to do away from football? The training and the matches keep you so busy and you need to take care of yourself - eat and drink right and have plenty of rest. However, I like going into Birmingham City Centre and I particularly like movies – horror movies and comedies are my favourites. You have achieved your dream early in life. What advice you would give to other young people? Firstly, work hard – everyone thinks football is so glamorous and it can be, but they forget the unsocial hours, the constant training and the restrictions on your diet. It is very hard work. And whatever you want to do, you will have to be prepared to work hard to get there. Secondly, believe in yourself - if you have determination and talent, you can make it. So what’s next for Demerai Gray? Well, I take everything one step at a time. First job is to secure my place in the first team, then I want to aim for the England U21s. Maybe the senior team in time – that would be incredible. However, I just take it one day at a time – football is an amazing career but it is unpredictable and can be over in a flash. www.69-degrees.co.uk

THE MOSCOW STATE CIRCUS PRESENTS

PARK GORKOGO

6 – 8 FEB

Adapted by Stephen Mallatratt from the novel by Susan Hill

16 – 21 FEB A CURVE PRODUCTION

BOOK & LYRICS

JAKE BRUNGER MUSIC & LYRICS PIPPA CLEARY DIRECTED BY LUKE SHEPPARD

7 MAR – 4 APR

7 – 11 APR

NOTTINGHAM PLAYHOUSE, CURVE THEATRE AND TOM O’CONNELL FOR QNQ PRESENT

NORTHERN BALLET PRESENTS

MADAME

BUTTERFLY

WITH PERPETUUM MOBILE

25 – 30 MAY

5 – 6 JUN

MAKE/BELIEVE UK DESIGN FOR PERFORMANCE 2011â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2015

14 - 31 January 2015: open Mon - Sat (closed Sun), see website for opening times, free admission Nottingham Trent University, Newton building, Goldsmith Street, Nottingham NG1 4BU Nottingham Trent University is delighted to host this exciting new touring exhibition from the Society of British Theatre Designers (SBTD) in collaboration with the V&A Museum. It brings together an extraordinary range of 140 contemporary designers and artists in performance, to show work created during the last 4 years in the UK and internationally.

The exhibition showcases the highly imaginative work of many prominent designers across a wide spectrum, including the Olympics and Paralympics, national music festivals and concerts, stage spectaculars, dance and opera, promenade performance, digital, heritage and media contexts, as well as education, health and community settings. All further information: www.boningtongallery.co.uk

Image: The Barber of Seville, Nationale Reisopera 2013 by Gary McCann, photographer Marco Borggreve