Bianco at Brighton Fringe Festival
By Rosie Murphy
Bianco by NoFit State is a health and safety-defying display of human acrobatics set in the Big Top on Hove Lawns.
The award-winning show demonstrates an abundance of elegant yet athletic gymnastics, with an often awe-inspiring affect.
Set to the tunes of a impressively versatile four-piece live band, the performance combines dignified displays of endurance with energetic and humorous pieces set in swim suits.
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By Tom Groom
The Little Shocks are a teenage band incarnated in the heart of Chichester, the outcome of shifting line-ups in an already-existent band. A bombastic, guitar-driven, post-alternative indie sound gives this band it’s edge, and reminds you in part of a young Arctic Monkeys, with a little bit of Fratelli’s thrown in. The band consists of frontman Tom Herrington, Lead Guitarist Rob Brown, Bassist and backup vocalist Harry Caiger and manic drummer Elliot Jones, who I caught up with to interview about his band’s promising rise of success.
TG: What made you initially decide you wanted to be a musician?
EJ: I used to go to gigs all the time from the age of 11 after playing football from an early age. I picked up a bass first, but I was no good, so I got a cheap drum kit instead. It was all a bit random really.
TG: Who are your idols as drum players?
EJ: Chad Smith, Dave Weckl, Mike Portnoy, Dave Grohl and a bit of Travis Barker, people compare my style to him sometimes.
TG: How long have you known your fellow band members? And how did you meet them?
EJ: I’ve known Rob since I was about 5 years old and I was in a band with him a few years ago, we gig’d around Bognor. I met Tom and Harry in November last year on a music course at college.
TG: How did you guys decide you wanted to be in a band?
EJ: They (Rob and Tom) were already in a band for around a year, but the line-up always changed, and they never wrote much music. They asked me in November last year and Harry joined us in February after a couple more changes.
TG: So how long have Rob and Tom been doing it?
EJ: Since about February last year together
TG: Where do you see yourself and the band in 6 months/ a year?
EJ: Hopefully if everything pulls through we are looking to play some reputable Brighton venues over the next six months or so. We are looking to book a tour for the summer next year, but we’ve got lots planned in between the two, but that’s secret!
TG: That sounds awesome. Your Facebook page, facebook.com/TheLittleShocks, tells me you’re unsigned, have you had any offers yet?
EJ: We haven’t as of yet, but playing at Coalition turned some heads in the right direction. We have things to work on and get better at, it’s something to look forward to as and when it happens. We need to show everyone what we’ve got over the next year.
TG: I, regrettably, couldn’t make it to your Coalition performance, but I saw it on YouTube, you were ace. When’s the next gig?
EJ: It was nuts man, we are doing a minibus every time we go for a fiver each. We are at the Exchange in Hove on the 17th of November and we are waiting for dates from the Prince Albert and the Hope in Brighton.
TG: Who, in your opinion, are the main influences on the band?
EJ: It’s hard to say really, but others say Arctic Monkeys, The Libertines, The Strokes; these are the main ones people compare our sound to. People say a lot of different artists, we all like different stuff so the music and songs are influenced by lots of music.
TG: It’s good that way because you can get the best of everything. What would be your dream gig?
EJ: Yeah man we’ve got some hard-hitting tunes, some have grooves and funky melodies, it’s a nice mixture. Our dream gig would be without a doubt supporting the Arctic Monkeys! Realistically, if we work hard we want to try and get on one of the big festivals next year.
TG: Either of those would be awesome. What’s the best gig you’ve played to date?
EJ: Coalition without a doubt, we blew the roof off and got a good reaction from the judges and other Brighton venues afterwards. Looking back on it, that’s one gig we will remember forever, no matter what happens.
TG: It looked pretty manic from what I saw! You hear a lot of crazy stories about rock and roll guys doing stupid stuff, what’s the craziest time you’ve had personally or with the band in the time you’ve been playing?
EJ: (chuckles) The most rock and roll moment of my life was playing in a mankini with a former band for our last gig. I think as a band, the funniest one was Rob’s birthday, we had a gig that night and he was trollied. We need to have a big night out together when my passport arrives.
TG: I saw pictures of that gig. How difficult has it been to get gigs and attention in a music scene dominated by pop groups?
EJ: Round here we have done well because there’s not much music that’s like ours. At Coalition we were the only band of our kind, so we just have to keep writing massive tunes like we have been, still lots to come over the next few months.
TG: In my opinion, you should keep doing what you’re doing. You have nearly 500 fans on Facebook now, that’s quite a landmark! How useful has the internet been in promoting what you’re doing?
EJ: The main thing is going to bigger places and writing bigger and better songs, it’s all in the name of fun. Facebook especially helps massively – we are looking into other methods including a website in the new year.
TG: I guess half of it is not losing sight of who you are as a band. Do you have any pre-gig rituals?
EJ: The boys are fat fuckers, they get as many kebabs as possible, I just chain smoke! Other than that we just get as pumped as possible.
TG: One more thing, if you could meet any one of your musical heroes, who would it be?
EJ: I want to meet Chad Smith, then my life would be complete. From the band’s perspective, it would be the Arctic Monkeys or Alex Turner for sure.
By Samuel Peace
For the last two years I’ve gathered around friends houses for an ‘all nighter’ involving typical party antics, gaming and topping it off by watching E3. For many gamers the Electronic Entertainment Expo (more commonly known as E3) is the pinnacle of the industry’s annual calendar. It’s the crème de la crème and it attracts the world’s greatest game developers, publishers and journalists. It’s both a celebration of what makes video game culture so great and a glimpse into the future of how we’ll play next.
Since starting in 1995 it has played centre stage for the industry’s biggest reveals, whether it’s a new games console or the next chapter in a popular franchise. 2005 saw E3 extend its reach by broadcasting all the big conferences online for the whole world to see. No longer were fans restricted to just reading stories about it, they could now watch the reveals for themselves as it was happening. This streaming revolution was what really turned E3 from a general busy news week into the biggest and most exciting gaming extravaganza known to man. In a similar vein to Christmas, there is always a huge build up to it months before it happens and then before you know it, it’s over within a flash. Though brief, it always gives you some of the best memories as a gamer and it becomes an excuse to have a celebration.
The only thing that could be better than streaming it would be attending the event itself and seeing everything with our own eyes (and even playing some of the games that were just revealed). Unfortunately this dream for most people will stay just that – a dream. The event is invite only therefore only the most prestigious and well known media outlets are allowed to see it all first hand. Fortunately however, developers and publishers are eager to get their games noticed by as many people as possible. Therefore some companies have made their own versions of E3, but have made them open to the public. While none of these tend to have any big reveals like E3, they focus a lot more on allowing gamers to go hands on with unreleased titles. Gamescom (GC) in Germany and the Tokyo Games Show (TGS) in Japan are the biggest of these events and manage to entice upwards of 200,000 people a year.
In 2008 the UK finally got its own proper video games convention called the Eurogamer Expo (EGE). It started off as a rather small venture with only 4,000 attendees, however after five years it has now turned into a massive exhibition for the whole of the UK. Last year it attracted 50,000 people which is a massive increase over the year before (34,500). As soon as I found out about the EGE (back in summer 2011) I snapped up a ticket right away. 2012 was my second expo and it certainly did feel bigger and better than 2011’s one. The question was though; could it deliver the same awe inspiring experience as E3 (minus the reveals)? The answer is a resounding yes. There are many factors which help to contribute to making it the best day out any video game fan can have. So below are my EGE experiences:
Unreleased Games – The main reason I went was to get my hands on all of the hottest upcoming games which were still in development and not available to purchase. A majority of the booths allowed attendees to play these latest experiences, most of which are normally up to six months away from being released. The excitement I felt when rushing to a stand was that of opening a present when I was a kid.
Developer Sessions – The second reason I went was to see some of the famous faces who make the titles I know and love. Last year had the likes of Peter Molyneux (Fable series) and Hideo Kojima (Metal Gear series) both of whom are celebrities in the eyes of industry fans. Although they rarely make any surprise announcements, it is still interesting to find out more about them and their projects. It is great asking them questions and just like with any celebrity you become pretty star-struck if you manage to shake their hand or get a photo with them.
Meet Like Minded People – Like with my ‘all nighter’, big gaming events are always enjoyed best with like minded people. Attendees at EGE all share the same passion of gaming so this gives everyone a boost of confidence as you already have something in common. Gaming once used to be a very anti-social activity. I grew up playing in my room away from everyone else and I rarely went out. This affected my overall confidence growing up, but with modern internet capabilities and the rise of social gaming, I can now freely discuss and play with many other people. My confidence has skyrocketed in recent years and to my surprise the EGE is not full of people with under developed social skills.
The Atmosphere and Cosplay – The grand building that is Earls Court, has been home to the EGE since 2010. Seeing it for the first time after stepping out of the tube was a surreal experience. Never had I seen posters and billboards that big advertising games. Usually advertisements of that stature are reserved for films and music, so it was a pleasant change. Things were even better inside as there were towering bits of artwork at each booth as developers/publishers vied for my attention. Seeing a massive hall filled with people enjoying what I enjoy was a heart warming sight. All this was improved by Cosplay. Originating in Japan, cosplay has quickly become a worldwide phenomenon and has since gathered popularity in western countries. The idea is to dress up as your favourite character (from any media), which makes it is a great way to find out people’s favourite franchises. Also competitions for big prizes have made this past time become an obsession for some with people putting in months of work to create something truly mind-blowing.
Competitions – A video game is not complete without some form of competitive aspect, so the same can be said for a games show not having competitions. While in the past we’ve had board games, high score tables and pong, the invention of online gaming has taken multiplayer to the next level. It is now possible to face anyone in the world, so naturally competitions have become bigger and more exciting. Games which can support many competing players or have huge followings such as Call of Duty have now become esports (electronic sports) and have transformed into cultures themselves. Big trades shows such as EGE thrive on these massive esport areas and it was excellent being a spectator.
Careers – While trade shows are used by developers/publishers to primarily showcase their projects and products, sometimes they use it to advertise vacancies at their companies. It makes sense for a games company to promote a gaming job in an area full of gamers. I also saw education establishments trying to persuade attendees to take their game related course along with career advice experts telling people the best ways to get into the industry.
Merchandise – No day out would be complete without a novelty item of some sort. At places like EGE there is usually a cluster of shops all selling exclusive stuff which is hard to find elsewhere. As you would expect it’s not always cheap, but for hardcore game fans it can be difficult to resist. I try not to splash out too much when I’m there, but it is certainly impressive what you can buy.
These were just the main highlights for me, but there were other smaller areas which were no less impressive. While I was there I met up with Chris Ledger – a friend who is also the owner and lead developer of indie game company Derp Studios. I asked him what he liked about EGE and game exhibitions in general, and also how EGE has benefited Derp Studios. He said: “It’s a great day out, especially for someone like me who is both a fan and a developer. The developer conferences were my favourite parts as they were real eye openers. I thoroughly enjoyed Hideo Kojima’s session as I’ve always been a massive fan of the Metal Gear franchise. From a developer perspective, it’s always great to check out what other companies are doing. As we are currently in the mobile market, I found it very useful checking out all of the latest portable games. My ultimate goal is to eventually bring my own game to an event like this, and to see a giant frog banner saying ‘Derp Studios’.
The Eurogamer Expo continues to expand and 2013 seems like it will be its biggest year yet, as the industry witnesses the transition into a new console generation this fall. Hopefully one day EGE can become the new E3.
The Labour Party goes through its ups and downs, well don’t we all? A group has started that encompasses a lot of what Labour is about. Labour party people have a great sense of humour, a strong belief in what they feel is right for the country, a determination to achieve that and a desire to support each other in the process. The Stand up for Labour group is all of that and is something that even a Tory can enjoy (occasionally). They have been to Eastbourne recently and there is another chance to see them coming up in the South-East for people who just want to have a great laugh.
Stand up for Labour are putting on shows with great comedians and guest speakers, the proceeds after paying for promotion and the venue all go to the Constituency Labour Party in the area to spend on campaigning. For areas such as Eastbourne that are struggling to do much because of low membership, it can be a great financial boost. On March 9th the Underground Theatre was packed out as people roared with laughter at the antics of Grainne Maguire, Crispin Flintoff, Arthur Smith and Lord Denis Healey.
The party gained from the promotional material, it gave a great visual presence to Labour outside of election time. Manos gave a hysterically funny view of the Greek crises and the approach of Angela Merkel. Arthur Smith got even the Tories in the theatre laughing (there were two brave enough to come along). Jon Rogers from Unison was the guest speaker who added some confirmation about why we were all there.
They aim to keep ticket prices low and get the largest number of people coming along. On May 25th Stand up for Labour will be at the OLd Market House in Hove as part of the Brighton Festival. They have their own website where you can find out more and if anyone really wants a boost to their morale it will surely be all they are looking for. Appearing in Hove will be Joe Wells, Manos Kanellos, Arnold Brown and Claire Summerskill.
The Easter forecast might be a bit nippy, but that’s no eggscuse for not wrapping the kids up and getting them outside. There are plenty of outdoor family activities in and around Brighton over this bank holiday weekend, including Easter Egg Hunts for budding treasure hunters. We have details of one in town and one out of town. So get the family kitted out in their woolly thinking hats and working up an appetite for that feast of chocolate.
By Lydia Clayton
As Britain’s biggest rock festival returns to end the summer with a bang, some of you may have noticed a slight change. Reading and Leeds has been one of the most anticipated festivals every year since 1971, hosting some of the biggest names in music over the last 30 years, from old favourites like Nirvana, Guns N’ Roses and Oasis; to newer acts such as The Arctic Monkeys, Linkin Park and The Killers.
By David Hillier
It might not feel like it, but summer is on its way. Honest.
As our limbs thaw out, the festival-minded among us turn our minds to what fields we are going to be rolling around in come the warmer months. Whether you want to see some great music, crack open a chemical suitcase or talk to strangers at dawn, there are loads of events across Europe that mean you don’t just have to go to Benicassim or Rock Werchter. Here’s some of the best. Read the rest of this entry »
By Matt Berryman
Kate Williams
Every first Monday of the month, the Shakespeare’s Head Pub on Chatham Place holds a showcase of acoustic acts. One might expect an evening of repetitive singer-songwriters blearily throwing out half-arsed renditions of ‘Hallelujah’.
So I found myself holding my breath when the opening act last Monday uttered the words ‘This next song is a Leonard Cohen cover.’ Oh, how wrong I was. Read the rest of this entry »
By Rosie Murphy
Hundreds of people took to Brighton streets on Saturday to raise awareness of animal testing at two English sites. An estimated 300 strong march travelled to Brighton from as far afield as France, Belgium, and Italy to hear speeches from organisers and supporters. Styled as a funeral procession, the group honoured the animals by dressing in black and remaining silent.
By Nathalie Jacquemard
The Chocolate Festival took place in Brighton this weekend and drew crowds despite the somewhat gloomy weather.
Writing about this festival was a dream job for me. I adore chocolate. Not a day goes past without me eating it in one form or another. Chocolate is an integral part of my life. Sometimes I think chocolate IS my life. Read the rest of this entry »
By Louisa Michel
Twenty six men and women from around the world have come together to create ’13 Women – A Living Collection of Art’. The striking exhibition opened at the beginning of March at Brighton’s Jubilee Library, to coincide with International Women’s Day on March 8thth.
13 Women started as a simple idea, enabling female artists from all walks of life and backgrounds to unite under one banner. But, with a footfall of over 42,000 curious visitors last year, the debut show was such a success it has now become an annual event, and this time includes male artists (since somany asked how they could get involved).
Supported by I LOVE ART UK who specialise in staging and curating unique and engaging exhibitions, 13 Women has become a platform for ground breaking art and brave personal statement in a very public environment.
One visitor described last year’s show as, “a real female explosion of power, grace and vibrancy”. With this year’s theme of Transition, we can expect to see similarly powerful biographical work explored through a variety of materials: from latex and tapestry, to traditional painting to book art.
I spoke to Marga Beuth about her evocative contribution “The Vulva Landscape” which hangs in the library window. Crafted from an original collagraph, pieces of wallpaper and lino print, Vulva Landscapes is a semi-abstract depiction which Marga describes as, “almond shape surrounded by soft organic labia-like leaves.”
So far she says, the reaction has been positive. Her pioneering work is not just an exploration of sexuality - “it’s much larger than that” she tells me, “ I am presenting a female equivalent of the phallic symbol.”
Of course, the act of making symbols has been around for as long as humanity. “What is surprising to me” Marga continues “is how difficult people find the notion of a ‘vulvic symbol’. Why do we not have a single cipher or visual shorthand for ‘the essences of woman-ness’ in our culture?” An evocative question, which I’m sure will spark much discussion.
Mark Golding’s contribution is titled, “Transition from the Ordinary to the Extraordinary”. His is an art form that is totally new; “I render the invisible visible through a labyrinth-like 7 step journey.”
He gives me a taster. As I listen to his poetic words and become absorbed in the swirling patterns of his sacred geometry mandala, I find I’ve suddenly, unknowingly become a part of his exhibit. This must be what they call the ‘living art’ experience! It feels as though Mark is guiding me on a creative tour inside my mind. I notice a curious sense of the magical arise, like something very familiar and yet unexplainable is happening “… and we will find ourselves outside the box” he concludes after a couple of minutes, and I am left with a vague and mysterious feeling I both know and don’t know what he’s alluding to.
13 Women also has a virtual gallery
Artists:
Marga Beuth f: Marga Beuth @13 WOMEN
Mark Golding
By Sarah Jackson
Brighton Festival’s 2013 programme was announced yesterday with Guest Director Michael Rosen, the writer, broadcaster and former Children’s Laureate.
This will be the 47th annual arts festival held in the city, which takes place for three weeks each May. Over 150,000 attendees will be attracted to Brighton and will generate £20 million to the local economy.
“It’s a huge privilege for me to be the Guest Director,” said Michael Rosen. “I believe in the chemistry of it, the way it will get the whole city talking and wondering.”
Andrew Comben, the Chief Executive of Brighton Dome and Festival, said that he believed Rosen’s energy and curiosity was a perfect match for the festival.
He said, “Michael Rosen has entertained, educated and moved audiences of all ages and over several generations”.
Including visual arts, music, theatre, outdoor performances, books and debates and family-friendly events throughout the city, Brighton Festival runs between the 4th and 26th May. More information is here.
The recent British film Made in Dagenham, set in 1968, tells the story of a group of female machinists working for the Ford Motor Company and their historic fight for equal pay. In it there’s a delightful exchange over a Biba dress between characters Rita O’Grady, who leads the machinists, and a wonderfully fiery Barbara Castle, a minister in Harold Wilson’s Labour cabinet. Some might argue this exchange trivialises an important issue, but to those I say this: fashion can and often does go hand in hand with feminism. The ability to be girly and as hard as nails – or whatever the hell we want! – is what feminist struggles have been all about.
To those of you unconvinced about the transformative power of fashion (yes I did say that!) I urge you to get down to Brighton and Hove Museum sharpish. Their exhibition, Biba and Beyond: Barbara Hulanicki, pays tribute to the darling 1960s fashion brand Biba which changed the lives of millions of women and enjoyed a following from celebrities including Brigitte Bardot, Cher and Yoko Ono. Including loans from private individuals and major collectors, the Biba story is told in the form of film, illustration, music, photography, and through the fond memories of people reminiscing about the shops, the clothes and the excitement. If you like your fashion and your history, you will be like a veritable child in a sweet shop.
The exhibition, Biba and Beyond: Barbara Hulanicki, will run until 14 April 2013 at Brighton and Hove Museum and Art Gallery. The cost is £6 per adult, with £4 concessions, and is £3 to Brighton and Hove residents. It is free to children under the age of 16. To book tickets call 03000 290902.
