Darkus 2016: Issue 1

music/fashion/lifestyle

issue 1 2016

the hair maid darwin deez ellie goulding the libertines

sports philosophy fenwick food hall

Team Darkus

Editor-in-Chief:

Deputy & Fashion Features Editor: Lead Photographers:

Thushara S. Chandrasiri Pixie Tenenbaum Kate McConrey & Chris Ord Amy Hanna

Graphics Team:

Becca Fergus, David Macnab, Eva Lightfoot, Eve Monaghan, Kelsey Robertshaw, Megan Lowes

Music Team:

Fashion & Lifestyle Team: Photography Team:

Ross Pollard & Jane Robertshaw Jemma Dodd, Amy Hanna, Eleanor Weitzer

Make Up Artists & Hairstylists:

Ashley Wallace, Holly Moulden, Max Parker, Steph O’Neill

Facebook: Darkus Magazine Twitter: @DarkusOfficial Instagram: @darkusmagazine www.darkusfashion.bigcartel.com Thank you to: Black Arts PR, Carry On Press, Chuff Media, Hall Or Nothing, Ian Cheek, Little Press, OPR, Pomona PR, Sonic PR, Tony Linkin, Wild UK, Wilful Publicity, 9PR & all the amazing creative souls involved in this issue.

editors note

2016 has arrived and here at Darkus we are more ready and excited as ever. We ended 2015 on a high with us taking things to the next level as we were fortunate enough to be stocked in Fenwick Newcastle. Those who have invested their time in the magazine from the start would have seen how we have gone from strength to strength. When asked by a friend where the spirit of Darkus lies, the simple answer is everywhere.

Whether it be in the world of music, fashion or lifestyle there are always new and exciting things to discovered, which in result leave me as an editor feeling inspired. In addition another reason why I love what I do is the hard work of my famous dream team. Consisting of writers, photographers, makeup artists and hair stylists, these beautiful souls all share the same vision which makes Darkus such a special and magical place.

I am not one for new years resolutions, but one thing I was determined to do with the 2016 collection was to ensure that not only do we continue to provide you with the strongest music, fashion and lifestyle content, but also use it as an opportunity to make this a collection to remember.

Where last year rise, 2016 represents embracing the positive vibes and reflecting on those extra touches and creative influences which make our society that extra bit special.

With this issue, when it came to music I wanted to draw on some of the artists (at various stages in their own story), who are going to make the music scene a very exciting place to be.

Similarly with the fashion and lifestyle content, my experienced team of writers, led by deputy and fashion features editor, Pixie Tenenbaum were

encouraged to think outside of the box and as you read their work you will be guaranteed to discover some pretty impressive material.

Amongst other things I am proud of is our beautiful front cover. As I said the dream team are the heart and soul of Darkus, so it was really nice to get the opportunity to have a proper chat with the latest addition to my team, hair stylist, Steph O’Neill the architect of all things creative when it comes to hair! Not only do I want to acknowledge the work of Make Up Artists and Hair Stylists, but also make this a place where their voice, just like models, photographers, designers and musicians, can be heard!

Each person creates their own inspiration, and the 2016 collection will be a place where that will be celebrated!

Sending love and positive vibes,

Thushara xxx

Contents Music

Albert Hammond Jr Bad Molly Bloom Twins Circa Waves Darwin Deez Dexters Ekkah Ellie Goulding Enter Shikari Flowers Foals Franko Fraize Gabrielle Aplin Hooton Tennis Club Inheaven Leo Stannard Martin Luke Brown NME Awards Tour Northlane o2 Academy: 10 Years Passion Falls Piano Wire Rosie Lowe Secrets The Cadillac Three The Cribs The Cribs Interview The Libertines The Maccabees The Story So Far Twin Atlantic Ubeat Awards

fashion and photography Kayla Lou & Creative Instincts Ong Oaj Pairam Snow Queen Sports Philosophy The Hair Maid Vintage Inspiration with Chris Ord

lifestyle Boozy Cheesecake Dr. Martens: Story of an Icon Exhale Fenwick Food Hall Film and Comic Con The Division

//Albert Hammond JR Darkus Magazine: Welcome to Darkus. How have you enjoyed your time on the road and your time in the UK? AHJ: I love playing and I love touring the UK. I’m trying to grow an audience so I can play even more shows.

DM: With your UK tour, did you have any main priorities?

AHJ: To get this new exciting show across; to show people the band and myself … the new songs have given us a much bigger dynamic and excitement DM: With the year almost at an end, how would you rate your 2015? Has it been as special as you wanted it to be?

AHJ: Best year of my life.

DM: Congratulations on your exceptional album, Momentary Masters. What do you think it tells people about the spirit of what you’re all

about?

AHJ: There are layers to everything and you can have fun while exploring the depths of life and your surroundings. Nothing is just one thing, it’s all a cycle and it takes practice learning to love the top of the ride as much as the bottom; they exist together and one can’t be understood without the other.

DM: Was the recording a smooth process for you whilst working on this album?

AHJ: Smooth is the result, but the process is more chaotic; sometimes you feel like you’ve got it and other times it feels like you are failing. The self pressure of wanting to be great pushes you into areas that you aren’t comfortable in and that makes it where great things happen …

DM: Do you ever have such a thing as a typical day?

AHJ: Sure … routines can happen in anything you do, but even in the routine or something you

could call typical, there are still things happening that can change everything if you’re paying attention.

DM: What makes the creative process of song writing special for you?

AHJ: The constant unknown and then the feeling of excitement when you start to feel close to something; when you feel you’ve reached a new peak; taking the magic part out of it and just seeing it as a scientist. You are testing and experimenting with the unknown but inside you know you there is an answer … looking for it … that process has every emotion you’ve every felt.

DM: Darkus Magazine is not only about music, but also fashion and lifestyle … it should not be forgotten therefore that you are also a designer having collaborated with Jacques-Elliott to create your own collection of beautiful ties. How easy is it to differentiate between the two, or is it a case of the two

worlds merging together?

AHJ: I truly believe that I can make something out of anything, so in that way creating isn’t different it’s just in a different medium. I like beautifully aesthetic things; I have been dressing myself since I was two, poorly at first I imagine, but it’s all been a process.

DM: Just like every song has its own

story and meaning, do you think this is the same with your designs?

AHJ: I don’t know if clothes have a meaning; at its best it’s trying to attract people to you; it’s trying to express part of your personality. It’s the first way that people judge you.

In my teens I started dressing in a way that I was hoping would attract other similar minded people and that was exciting.

DM: As a musician what is the greatest form of acknowledgment you could receive?

AHJ: Many; personal ones like writing something or playing something you couldn’t previously … then having fans come out and seeing how much you move them.

DM: Where do you see your music going in 2016?

AHJ: The stratosphere Questions By Thushara S Chandrasiri

//bad molly After a number of recommendations from a few of my good friends, I took the time to check out Manchester based band Bad Molly. Despite still being relatively new to the music scene, these 4 gents led by frontman Tyron have a lot to offer. I try not to categorise bands, but if I was to describe their music to a new listener I would say it is a beautiful fusion of modern rock, psych and blue with an dash of style to give it that extra style.

When checking out a new band where does one begin? To make sure I was feeling the vibe I started in one of my favourite places which usually never lets me down – Soundcloud!

I am met with the track ‘Sail With Me’. I listen and am intrigued not only by the captivating vocals but the slick skills of lead guitarist Sam Cartwright, and drummer Adam, thus making it very refreshing to listen to regardless what mood you are feeling!

Lyrically, Bad Molly give me everything I could

ask for in ‘Sail With Me’ as a listener with the free spirited lyrics, with my favourite line being “Doesn’t matter where you wanna go, or where you want to be, just sail with me!’, something which I can totally relate to and is definitely up my street.

Working my way through their Soundcloud collection I then checked out ‘Come and Go’. I will admit at first I was a bit unsure about it, but after not wanting to disregard it straight away, I gave it a couple more listens and hey you know what it started to grow on me. Bearing in mind I am listening to the recorded version of this track I have to think outside of the box and imagine it to be quite an electric and energetic track to be performed live. Again the lyrics make this track strong, as it is almost a reflection on what exists in the minds of Bad Molly and those who listen, thus creating the perfect band-listener chemistry.

Finally I come to Silvergold. I had a bit of a

dilemma with this song, but a pleasant one, because I was trying to decide between ‘Sail With Me’ and ‘Silvergold’ which was my favourite Bad Molly track. Although ‘Sail With Me’ may of drew me in, it was this beautiful catchy little number which just managed to successfully win me over. Personally it is a track which in my opinion perfectly sums up what Bad Molly are about – lyrically, musically and vocally! I invite you all to go and check the track right out right now, and as you close your eyes and just imagine just how insane this track would be if you were ever at a Bad Molly show. For me it would the perfect tune to party to.

So there you have it – Bad Molly. I come across a lot of artists as Editor, and what I try to do is look for the ones who think outside the box, capture your imagination and leave you with a smile. Not only have Bad Molly managed to do all that, but they have made me even more excited to see what great vibes they will create in 2016 and how they will take this outstanding potential they have to the next level.

Social Media Links: Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/ bad-molly Instagram: http://instagram.com/ badmollyband Article By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Photos By Kurtis Massey

//bloom twins We caught up with Ukrainian duo, The Bloom Twins when they came to Newcastle’s Metro Arena as part of the Duran Duran tour.

Darkus Magazine: What have the past 12 months been like for you?

Bloom Twins: Our 2015 was pretty crazy to be honest. When the year started we were living in Ukraine and we found it quite tough because we felt as though our music was being rejected which as you can imagine was terrible. We then came back to the UK and everything was so fresh, so new, energetic and busy and then next think we know we have the Duran Duran tour.

DM: Prospects for 2016?

BT: We will be releasing a single in February, then soon after an EP. It’s going to be even more busy and crazy with a lot of cool projects in the pipe line – gigs, tours, everything!

DM: Do you find it easy to have confidence in your music when embarking on either a tour or releasing music to the public?

BT: I would say that it is not that easy as you obviously want to do your best so when your working on new material sometimes it does it

does take time. You know what though, its great because it makes you excited to release it to new people and see how they respond.

DM: What has been that special piece of advice you will never forget?

BT: Not to be afraid to do what you love and work at it each day. Don’t worry about whether or not people believe in you or not, because at the end of the day all you need to concentrate on is believing in yourself.

DM: How easy was it to adjust to life in London?

BT: We were only 15 years old when we first came to the UK, it was a bit of a risk because we were so young and didn’t know what to expect.

We didn’t have our parents and then we could hardly speak English so all we had to interact with was each other. Even though it was tough it was still a good thing for us, because it made us stronger and better as people.

DM: Can you think of the bravest points in your career so far?

BT: The Duran Duran tour is a perfect example.

We have never played to so many people, especially a room full of people who may not be

familiar with who we are. Another good thing we did a couple years back was release a cover at a time when there was a lot of hard times back in Ukraine concerning peoples rights.

We wanted to be there but couldn’t, so we did our own version of Bob Marley’s ‘Get Up Stand Up’ and combined it with footage of what was going on over there. That brought us a lot of attention as the likes of The Guardian & BBC Newsnight were talking about us, so at present that’s one of the best things we have done so far.

DM: Tell us about the new single, Set Us Free?

BT: Out in February, it’s a song about not putting yourself in the frame and not being led by other people who just dictate what you should and shouldn’t do. Instead it encourages you to believe in yourself.

DM: What did it feel like to be involved in arena tours with the likes of Duran Duran?

BT: We grew up listening to the likes of Duran Duran, so to be asked to play with them in the UK made us feel so honoured, especially so early in our life.

DM: Typical day on tour?

BT: Lot of practising, doing our makeup, having a sound check then performing! And oh before we go on stage, we put our hands on top of each other with our team, and then say “Bloom Twins” to help psyche ourselves up.

DM: What is the best way to find out more about the Bloom Twins?

BT: The best place would be our website bloomtwins.com where you can discover all you need to know.

Questions by Thushara Chandrasiri Answers by Anna and Sonia Kuprienko Photos By Lee Smith

//Circa Waves

Written by Eva Lightfoot.

Despite the bitter Birmingham evening, fans turned out in their packs to see Liverpudlian indie rockers - Circa Waves for a night at The Institute.

Thirty minutes before doors were due to open the queue backed up half way down the street, proving the steadfast and committed nature of their young, and largely female fan base. Once inside the venue, the crowd was thick and boisterous, eager for Circa Waves to grace the stage.

First up was The Academic, an Irish band who are largely reminiscent of a young Catfish and The Bottlemen. Their sound, a combination of raw vocals and polished guitar lines was warmly welcomed by a fervent crowd and perfectly set up the stage for the headliners. The Academic were swiftly followed by Sundara

Karma, a band to keep a firm eye on over the next year. This fresh and stylish band had the entire venue bouncing within a few minutes of picking up their instruments. I found myself next to a localised pocket of loyal Sundara Karma fans, who screamed every line along with them. Stand out tracks from their set were ‘Love Blood’ and ‘Flame’, and since the gig these tracks have found a permanent home on my iPod. After a short change around, which provided enough time to get to the bar and back, (young fans - no queue) Circa Waves hit the stage and the place erupted. Opening with ‘Young Chasers’ it was clear they knew exactly how to work a crowd. Before long, Kieran had the venue in the palm of his hand. Choruses of ‘Make

your mind up, And I’ll chase you through the seats’ were reverberated by the audience.

The crowd’s energy built and exploded during ‘Fossils’ and ‘My Love’. There was only a short lull in proceedings when a flare was set off from the balcony. Once the smoke had settled and Kieran had clarified everyone was okay, Circa Waves governed the stage and the unruly crowd surfing continued. After closing the set, their walk off stage was hounded by chants of ‘Circa’ before a much desired encore of ‘T – Shirt Weather’.

Circa Waves have developed an edible indie formula, which works both in the studio and on tour. If you missed their UK tour this time around, be sure to check them out when they next hit a venue near you.

//Darwin Deez Darkus Magazine spent some time with Darwin Merwan Smith, frontman of Darwin Deez ahead of their Nottingham show at The Bodega.

Darkus Magazine: How has the tour been so far?

Merwan: I am going to be real with you, I’m a little tired. I haven’t gotten much sleep, but Dublin, was good, the crowd was very loud.

DM: How does it feel to be touring with the new album?

M: Good, we are still breaking in some of the new songs.

DM: Did you want to focus on your guitar solos more specifically in your new material?

M: Our driver listens to a lot of Thin Lizzy, I really appreciate them and I was totally inspired by the Thin Lizzy solo on their song Warriors. That was the first thing that gave me the shred bug.

DM: At college I heard you tried to go to as many philosophy classes as possible, do you think that interest is reflected in your lyrics?

M: I think it was more of a temptation I couldn’t resist, I don’t think philosophy goes very well with song writing. I think you have to stick to storytelling and personal drama and if you’re lucky you can fit in a little philosophy. I just don’t think it’s a very happy marriage with song writing unfortunately.

DM: You recently moved from New York to North Carolina, do you believe your surroundings effect your writing?

M: Yeah I moved there and back again within the last couple of years. I get asked this question a lot, I believe it doesn’t really have much bearing. I guess when I am away from home I focus more on lyrics, I wrote my rap mix tape [Wonky Beats] when I was away.

DM: Do you believe having a Plan B is a bad idea?

M: I didn’t know it straight away, I had to go through the wind tunnel and take care of myself. When I turned eighteen I started thinking abstractly about my life rather than just intuitively. I think it was a pitfall, whatever you are supposed to do with your life is usually extremely obvious by the time you are eighteen. At that moment your intellect becomes fully developed and you start trying to take an analytical perspective on things, to be safe. You start having ideas that you should go to college, because that’s what ensures a career and you can support yourself. It’s not a well-reasoned man who says “I’ve thought about this carefully and my decisions is... I want to be a rock star”. But I think it was the right thing to do, I had to try. I tried to have two Plan A’s I got really serious about both getting my degree, after having been dropped out for a few years, and music.

DM: Did you get your psychology degree?

M: No, not even close I did half the course for one semester and it was like pulling teeth. At the same time I started going out to a load of open mic nights and after that I embraced my cousins wisdom [don’t have a Plan B]. There was no way I could do it for another six years [studying philosophy] and then go into making money from it. In order to succeed you have to fail more times. We exist as a band and then sometimes it feels like we barely exist as a band.

I mean we’ve sold out The Bodega, but bands like Foals who came out around the same time as us are now selling out arenas. They’ve got momentum, whereas for me, it is a bit rough.

I feel like I’ve put out three really good records, but you can’t control public opinion and what people find exciting and hot. But you can hang on and keep putting stuff out. You keep doing it no matter what, you’ve made it your Plan A and you can’t give up on it now. It is scary, but it’s right.

DM: I heard you try out your music in The Sidewalk Café in New York, what was the reaction?

M: I haven’t done that for a while, but in the beginning yes. I got really excited when Deep Sea Divers came out [the crowd sang it

back], it was very different in rhythm to the other seven songs I had written before it. It was groovy all of a sudden and I realised grove was the thing I was missing. Socially it was a really supportive place once you got to know everyone.

I still have a lot of friends from that scene, I dated a girl from that scene for two years, and they are some of my favourite people. It is nice to have that social network around you as a person. There was so much focus on songs and song writing when you walked into that room, it was always there.

For a solid year, I was there every Monday.

DM: Do you think a scene is important when it comes to music?

M: It gives you something to do, I played guitar in my friends band for two years because we had the same aspirations. I dropped out of school and fall came around, and Andrew said “We are going on this little tour, are you in?” It felt like the right time and place, it led me very directly to this indie label [Lucky Number]. They are really nice people and Andrew is always proactive with whatever he wants to do artistically.

DM: Do you think things would have been different if you stayed in North Carolina?

M: I still feel like North Carolina is my home, but it was a little bit dead socially in the winter, I am not sure one girlfriend could have turned that around.

I’d lived in New York for eight years before that, so all my friends were there, I still have friends in Nashville. It was a bit of a lonely year and half there. It was both lonely and solitary. The solitude created a tranquil stillness so I could perceive the loneliness that was deep inside myself. It was good to contact it and recognise it was there. It allowed me to re-orientate myself and inspired me to come back. Nashville is cool, but I do love New York, it is home.

DM: Are there any other bands you’d like to shout out?

M: You should see Deerhoof live, they have the most entertaining drummer. They are from the West Coast, Washington originally I believe. They are a great live band, one of my favourite live bands to see. Mr Twin Sister are another great Brooklyn band, put people seem to already know about them.

Interview by Matthew Bulmer and Eva Lightfoot

//dexters East London rockers Dexters, are back with their brand new single Suburban Sex Jungle which is taken from their brand new album We Paid For Blood.

This new album only just released on the 27th November through Acid Jazz Records, is already causing a stir among the scene. After previously receiving essential support from national radio stations, including Radio 1 and BBC 6 Music, Dexters are hoping their new track Suburban Sex Jungle will be granted the same attention. Suburban Sex Jungle is miles away from their previous material, such as their effortless track, The Hard Way which carved out the key components of any indie anthem. Their new track however, is dirty and playful and possesses a much darker core. It has left me wondering if these East Londoners have grown up overnight and tapped into a mature sound, or they have been

carefully concealing this provocative identify all along.

Whatever the case, I am happy for them because it is turning heads and getting the band the attention they deserve. The official video for this track is imaginably gritty and frank, whilst still being catchy and consumable. Suburban Sex Jungle largely echoes Arctic Monkey’s earlier days, with its realist tone, brash guitar lines and stimulating lyrics. As firm favourites at home, Dexters sold out The Lexington months before their autumn tour even began, yet further evidence of their immoveable cult following in the South. If their debut album Shimmer Gold was too squeaky clean for your taste, take a chance on We Paid For Blood its brooding and honest older brother, available for download now.

Written by Eva Lightfoot

//Ekkah Darkus Magazine caught up with Rebekah Pennington and Rebecca Wilson from EKKAH to discover more about this energetic and bubbly duo.

Darkus Magazine: Welcome friends! How are you?

R & R: Yeah we are well thanks, having a nice and relaxed week so far.

DM: Lets start with an ice breaker. Give us a couple of quirky facts?

R & R: We both have long tongues and love sweet potato!

The last few months saw you take your music on the road. What was that like? Any favourite places?

R & R: Really good, was nice to meet some of our fans and get our music heard to new crowds as well. London is probably one of our favourite places to play, however each town we play is different so you never really know what to expect but we still approach each night with an open mind.

Reflecting back did you have a good 2015?

R & R: It was really exciting year for us. We had the opportunity to play a number of

shows and festivals such as Glastonbury and Tramlines. It was a also a good time for us to just focus on writing new material for our brand new EP. We also started working with record label, RCA so yeah, lots of big opportunities occurred.

How is the relationship going with RCA? R & R: Pretty well. Its nice to get the support of a team who shows the same level of belief in the music as we do.

When you get on stage what goes through your head?

R & R: We love it! We always have such a fantastic time and each time gives us valuable experience to help us learn and grow! It is so humbling when we do go on and we soon see the crowd dancing and singing along.

What does a true EKKAH set consist of?

R & R: A mixture of things really, but mainly a Positive Mental Attitude, creating a party vibe on and off stage and just embracing all the good positive feelings.

Agenda for 2016?

R & R: Playing more shows and ideally trying to release an album at least before Summer.

Having heard a few tracks by the band and had the pleasure of going to one of their shows (which included giving away free sparkly face tattoos), EKKAH really are a duo you cant help but fall in love with. As soon as you listen to the likes of tracks ‘Last Chance To Dance’ and ‘Figure It Out’ you will soon be feeling happy, so be sure you go check them and out and prepare to embrace the positive vibes.

To find out more about EKKAH head over to the following links: https://soundcloud.com/ekkah https://twitter.com/EKKAH https://www.facebook.com/WEAREEKKAH Questions by Thushara S. Chandrasiri Answers By Rebekah Pennington and Rebecca Wilson

//ellie goulding Having established her status as a successful and strong global artist after the release of her album ‘Halcyon’, back in 2012 Ellie Goulding is back with her third album Delirium – a masterpiece which not only is filled with a variety of memorising tracks but also could be regarded as insight into the journey Ellie has been on to get her to point she is at today.

Having been released on 6th November 2015, Darkus was fortunate enough to experience the new record first hand, and my word it really was sensational. The album starts with an enchanting intro track which as it evolves draws you in to the beauty you are about to witness, and is stylishly merged into the second track of the album, ‘Aftertaste’. As soon as you hear Ellie’s vocals all of a sudden as a listener your heart melts. What makes Ellie Goudling such a inspirational female artist is her ability to bring elegance in the form of her lyrics, voice and the vibe, thus making her stand out.

Now I know what you are thinking, pop music

is not for me? That mentality will soon change your perception because if you were hearing and feeling right now, it would be difficult not to fall in love with this album, so my advise is don’t resist – embrace.

Like with any new album I get my hands on although I would love to take you through my experience track by track, this is one of those times where I do the contrary and just choose some of my recommendations because at the end of the day I cant tell you all the secrets now can I? One of my favourite tracks has to be ‘Around U’, has a such an upbeat vibe which straight away puts you in a good mood. For me this track is about appreciating the people around you and what how much you love and respect them. Is it a love song? Kind of, but its one that you can relate to anyone – friend, boyfriend and girlfriend.

I think what really gives Delirium that extra dimension is the ability of Ellie to connect with her fans via her lyrics, which just enabled me

to relate to this album even more.

For instance, ‘Codes’ is ideal for those situations where you just want someone you love just to be straight with you. In essence with tracks like this as well as ‘Holding On For Life’, another sensational track, this is more than just an album, it’s the view of the world around us via the eyes of Ellie Goulding – and my word what a great perspective it is.

I cannot review Delirium without mentioning one of the tracks which many of you may of heard, ‘Love Me Like You Do’. Everything about this track is just beautiful, and for anyone who wants to encapsulate what makes Ellie Goulding the beautiful artist she is, is the perfect starting point. Everything from the lyrics to her voice makes this one of those tracks on the record which fills you with adrenaline from start to finish.

With 16 incredible tracks to work through, each with their own identity and story, Delirium ends strongly with ‘Scream It Out’, the perfect conclusion to an album which is filled with love and honesty.

With 2015 drawing to a close, this is one album which must not be missed, and with Ellie Goulding epic 2016 UK arena tour on its way, Delirium will be the perfect way to get you in the mood for the great things to come.

By Thushara Chandrasiri

//enter shikari Darkus Magazine: How did you all meet? Do you have any funny stories about that?

DM: Do you have any rituals of sorts that you do before playing live?

Rou: We’ve all known each other since primary school. I left them for 2 years when my family moved to Scotland when I was 11.

When we moved back I remembered a few friends and turned out I lived just one street away from Rob and could hear him playing drums in the summer when he left his windows opened. I feebly approached him one day in a supermarket and said straight away - too shy for small talk - “Hi Rob, do you want to start a band?”

Luckily he was up for it!

R: I like to meditate these days. Focuses the mind on the moment, ready to immerse yourself thoroughly in the music.

DM: What is each of your favourite albums out of all the ones you’ve written?

DM: What is it like recording music videos?

R: Honestly? Bloody boring and bloody long.

Most of the day is spent waiting or reviewing shots. I enjoy the creative side obviously, but not so much the shoot itself.

R: I think if any artist didn’t answer this question with his last piece of work then there’s a problem. If I didn’t think our last album was the best we wouldn’t have released it.

DM: Do you still get nervous before going on stage?

R: Very rarely. It’s only the mammoth shows, main stages at festivals that get the butterflies going. But they’re also the ones I enjoy the most.

DM: Have you ever been starstruck? If so, who by?

R: As I just finished drying myself after a shower and was walking to the wash basin to brush my teeth at T in the Park festival, Noel Gallagher popped in and asked me if there were any toilets in there or just showers. That was quite a shock for half naked britpop kid.

DM: Congratulations on the new record. Was there anything you wanted to do differently with it?

R: I wanted to use this one as a drinks mat and also as motivation for giving up a chocolate addiction.

DM: Who are your biggest influences?

R: Sagan. Socrates. Lennon.

DM: There’s some debate about what genre you are. What do you personally think?

R: I personally have no real interest in the matter. That’s something for you journalists to argue about! I think genres are conveniences for conversation and nothing more.

DM: Do you ever forget your own lyrics?

R: Absolutely. There’s so much going on at a show it’s easy to be distracted, especially at shows as incendiary as ours. Sometimes not dying comes before singing every line.

DM: Enter Shikari shows are always mind blowing, and with the UK tour to look forward to in February 2016, how do you think your going to take things to the next dimension?

R: Thank you. Well for starters the tour will be in quadraphonic sound. For anyone who doesn’t know this is basically surround sound. It really will feel like an extra dimension!

DM: Whilst practising, are there any songs you do to warm up? Which ones?

R: Mary had a little lamb.

DM: What were your childhood dreams? Did you ever expect to become famous?

R: No, not at all. I wanted to be a fireman.

DM: Are there any particular awards you would die to win?

R: No. I don’t really give awards as much prestige as most people do. I believe the cliché that art isn;t something that can be competitive and each person due to their experiences in life will put value towards different things. I also think an award like best live band is something that should be constantly proven and not stated.

It can be true in a moment but that moment is fleeting. Of course there is the memory that’s left though, which you can judge if you please but I’d rather treasure the memory than an award.

DM: What’s the most rock ‘n roll thing each of you have ever done?

R: I swore at a goat yesterday.

DM: During your dream show, what would be your setlist, who would be your support acts and what venue would you choose?

R: Me playing all our songs on the accordion.

On Europa (one of Jupiter’s moons). Whilst Carlie Rae Jepsen fed me grapes in-between songs.

DM: And finally, what have you learned over the past 12 years as a band?

R: Kindness is just about the most important thing in life. People - not matter where in the world are ultimately very very similar, we all want to be loved and to give love, and we all have our own issues and downfalls. Also learnt that it is physically impossible to just have one biscuit.

Questions by Amy Hanna Answers by Rou Reynolds

//Flowers

Darkus Magazine: Welcome to Darkus Magazine my friends, how are you enjoying the start of your 2016?

Rachel: It’s been great for us so far, apart from the sad news of Lemmy’s passing just before the New Year and Bowie’s just after. But we’ve been out at gigs drinking almost solidly since Christmas so we can’t complain too much about anything apart from that.

DM: This is a very busy time of the year for you with the release of your album and also an upcoming UK tour. Which of these milestones are you excited about the most?

R: They’re so connected in our heads it’s hard to separate one from the other. The tour is to celebrate new album’s release really, so it’s all one and the same exciting event to us.

DM: Everybody’s Dying To Meet You will be released via Fortuna Pop! 12th February. With it being the second album is their anything you wanted to do differently?

R: Yes and no. We definitely wanted this album to be different from the last one, but only because the last one didn’t quite go as planned. This time we wanted to make the album we’d always wanted to make right from the start, just an album that sounds like Flowers, a mix of our live sound and our home demo sound, both of which are very important to us.

The result is that this album is decidedly noisier and rougher around the edges than the first, which in our minds is a good thing.

DM: Do you see it as a new chapter or a continuation of the last chapter with an extra bit of added magic?

R: If our home demos were an introduction, then this new album is the first chapter. Our first album ended up being an interlude of some sort. This album is the first proper chapter. We did everything a bit backwards.

DM: Sam when you first started out with Flowers, what was it about Rachel which made you realise that she was the perfect match not just for yourself but as lead vocalist for the band?

R: Sam says, “I dunno you just sounded really good”.

DM: Which direction do you see Flowers growing?

R: I have no idea! We’re just going to keep writing songs and see what happens.

DM: With the new record you worked closely with producer Brian O’Shaughnessey. What are some of the highlights to come out of that partnership together?

R: It was great working with Brian. He really took the time to listen to us before we started to record with him, so he knew what we sounded like and what we wanted to do for this album.

He just really helped us capture our sound on record, rather than imposing anything onto us.

We all got on so well, it was a really fun and relaxing experience recording with him. We just drank loads and LOADS of tea and had a great time.

DM: Is there any specific tracks on the album which stood out to you the most?

R: Not really, we all have different favourites at different times. I think between the three of us in the band, Brian, our manager James and our labels, we must have named every song on the album as a possible single, or someone’s favourite at one point.

DM: 12th February is also the date your UK tour begins. In terms of the mental and physical preparation, what has the build up to these shows been like for you?

R: We haven’t prepared at all yet! We all live very close and practise a lot in general, so we haven’t needed such a long run-up to prepare for the tour as we might otherwise have done.

We are hoping to maybe play the entire new album live though, at least at the album lauch show on 12th if not at other shows, so there are a couple of songs we need to figure out how to play live. Most of the album we actually play live already, but there are a couple of songs, like Russian Doll and Bathroom Sink, that have slightly different instrumentation and will need a bit of extra practise to figure out how to make

it sound good on stage. We aren’t too bothered about emulating the album version exactly, we like doing things a bit differently live versus recorded, we just have to make sure we sound alright!

DM: Although you are based in London, do you ever find that there is more pressure when it comes to home town shows?

R: Not really, it’s actually less pressure playing here in London than anywhere else, because we know so many people here, we always have a rough idea of how many people will come to the shows. But out of London, especially playing totally new places, is scarier because you don’t get a feel of how many people even know your band exists, so you turn up to a show and have no idea if even a single person will turn up or not! It’s exhilarating to do though, and we love seeing new places and meeting new people, so it’s all the more rewarding if a little nerve wracking!

DM: After these shows are over for Flowers, what is the next dimension?

R: After our UK tour we’re going to come home and reunite with our dog, who we always miss like mad when we’re on tour! But after that

we’ll be touring around Europe and some of America later in the year, as well as playing some festivals over the summer. It should be a very fun year!

DM: Many have praised the band, but in your mind what does the spirit of Flowers represent?

R: I’d say the essence of our band is always just making pop songs, sometimes really noisy, sometimes very quiet, never very long (we get bored easily). And just having fun with our friends, we’re not trying to do anything fancy, we just like being in a band.

DM: Its been really nice speaking to you. Why is now a good time for fans new and old to invest their time in you?

R: You too! I’d say it’s a good time because our new album’s coming out! So there are a lot of new songs coming to have a listen to, and we like them, and we really really hope other people like them too!

To find out more information about Flowers head over to https://flowersdomusic.bandcamp.com/ Questions by Thushara S Chandrasiri Answers By Rachel Kenedy (Lead Vocalist)

//foals An unmistakably zealous anticipation swarming amongst an audience crammed into every inch and breadth of Newcastle’s O2 Academy; Foals are about to grace the stage, this time in tow with new offering “What Went Down”.

Arguably one of the most dynamic releases of the year, What Went Down grabbled to a Number 3 spot in the UK Charts, debuting a heavier side to the British rock band that was always silently murmuring beneath their previous studio albums.

As the lights dim and the monotonous clanging of Snake Oil leaks out of their amps, the crowd descend into a frenzy, flailing their arms at the mere sight of their beloved five-piece. Carefully shuffling out new tracks to ease the tension, it is followed by the anthemic head-bopper Mountain At My Gates, frontman Yannis Philippakis lapping up the echoing lyrics that repel off the venue’s walls. Their live presence is as imagined; confident, feisty and determined to garner the same appreciation from their

fans for What Went Down as their previous mainstream bangers.

Crazily catchy ditty My Number captivates the audience with its chiming guitar hooks and funk-rock furore, shortly followed by the surprise welcoming of Blue Blood, which allows the band a slight breather between their charging set, and for the other folk to try locate the whereabouts of their missing shoe between raging moshpits. The altercating between albums only proves the diversity that Foals have to offer; the mysterious, gentle hum of Spanish Sahara is haunting yet captivating, whilst the electronic clatter of Red Socks Pugie contrives comparisons to a subtle dance track, quite the differentiation.

The brilliantly plinky crescendo of Inhaler is still as ever timeless since its 2012 appearance, the howl of “SPAAAAAACE” slightly deafening.

After the “end of the show” (aka the part where everyone screams before they even exit as they are bound the return)

succeeds, Foals storm back on blasting out Hummer and title track What Went Down, the heavy riffs even more satisfying than on record.

Without any sort of recollection, after the delicate intro of firm favourite Two Steps Twice kicks in, Yannis disappears without warning, the crowd confusedly searching the lengths of the Academy for a glimpse of him. Soon enough everyone is staring to the back, as the energy rises and the “ba ba ba’s” can be felt beneath your feet, and Yannis darts down the middle of the standing area, and is surfed along to the bar where he downs a shot, still carefully carrying

along the beat, before heroically landing back on stage in time for possibly the most beautiful drop of the 21st Century.

Foals are fearless, and after the sell-out success of their current tour, it would almost be rude not to allow them their ever-deserved arena initiation in February.

Article By Becca Fergus Photos By Katy Blackwood

//franko fraize If there is one UK solo artist I recommend you keep an eye on in coming month’s, my vote would have to Franko Fraize. Currently on tour with Reverend And The Makers and also a few support slots with The Enemy, Franko is someone who is proud of the music he creates and where he is from.

On 18th December 2015 he will be ending his 2015 with the release of his track ‘Oi Oi’ – the first of his singles to be released since signing to Polydor.

Having had a sneaky preview, I must say how straight away I am loving the cheeky yet smooth vibe Franko Fraize is offering new listeners via this track.

The ability of an artist to put modern day situations and scenarios into music is an art form , and I think that this is something Franko successfully manages to master. Some have gone as far to

say that new single ‘Oi Oi’ is his defining statement, everything he’s wanted to say rolled into three and a half glorious minutes.

When discussing Frankie after a recommendation from my good friends over at Chuff Media, what makes you become a fan of his music is how his personality comes across as well. As Ashley put it, he has some what of a northern swagger…but from Norwich.

The UK music scene continues to impress me, and from ‘Oi Oi’ Frankie Fraize will be one of those exceptional people who make their mark and go extremely far, and once you listen to this track for yourselves you will agree that this is one talented guy you want to discover more about.

By Thushara S. Chandrasiri

//Gabrielle Aplin Gabrielle Aplin has been quite a busy lady over this past few months promoting her debut album, Light Up The Dark which was released via Paralphone Records.

Intrigued at her progress I headed over to the O2 Academy in Newcastle this February as her UK tour came to the city.

Compared to a lot of the shows I am used to attending this was somewhat of a more chilled out one, but nevertheless still exciting. Whether its just me but I find when I go to a show where the artists are acoustic led, it needs to be extra special to keep my attention otherwise you find yourself feeling you’re listening to sleepy music, and that is never a good thing. With this being said though, despite not being up to speed with everything Gabrielle is about, she still kept her set refreshing to listen to. Being a predominantly acoustic artist, I actually found the simplicity of her set gave it that extra edge, because it allowed you to

focus on the captivating vocals and heart felt lyrics of Gabrielle.

A lot of the time when you go to shows, people go from one extreme to another – you either get zero imagination or fancy lights and 100 different things going on stage at once, that distracts your attention from the actual music. Not that this is a bad thing, but I guess it has its time and place. Gabrielle Aplin on the other hand has provided a lovely balance, a bit of lights and sparkle, but also keeping things real which allows there to be only one place you focus your attention as a listener- her beautiful voice.

One of the most stunning songs on the night was the dedication to the passing of the legendary and influential musician, David Bowie, with her cover of Space Oddity. To cover such a big song is a very brave thing to do, but its one risk that Gabrielle successfully managed to deliver as she approached with such elegance,

delicateness and love thus making it extra special. Other songs on the night included Aplin’s sensational tracks, ‘Please Don’t Say You Love Me’, ‘Panic Chord’ , ‘Salvation’ and of course her popular tune, ‘Sweet Nothing’.

Looking around the room of the O2 all eyes were fixed to the stage, and for a lot of the slower, stripped back songs in her selection met with silence and attention from the audience.

For me that is a sign of an artist who has the love and respect of her fans.

Would I see Gabrielle Aplin again? Most definitely! Be it seeing her play live or hearing her music of the radio,TV etc, as a listener you feel touched and in love with the inspirational female singer song writer that is Gabrielle Aplin.

Article By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Photos By Katy Blackwood

//Hooton Tennis Club After being hooked on their new album for weeks, the live performance of songs such as ‘P.O.W.E.R.F.U.L. P.I.E.R.R.E and ‘Jasper’ definitely lived up to their light hearted and carefree vibes.

The band were a wonder to watch on stage, throwing themselves around as if no one was watching and encouraging the audience to do the same. Their high fuelled energy filled the room and bounced off everyone in there, the atmosphere was alive with excitement and it took me by surprise. In a good way of course.

I hadn’t read any interviews with the band before and didn’t really know what to expect. From the success of their album I could have met a group of pretentious young musicians but instead, I met very humble and cheerful Liverpool lads, up for a laugh and game for every question we threw at them. As we began speaking about the success (global and national) of the album ‘Highest Point in Cliff Town’, I became aware that these guys don’t have a real understanding of the extent of their success and that for the lads Harry, James, Ryan and Callum, their love and obsession for music came before any wanted fame.

With their tour being a raging success, from travelling to New York, Germany and having festival slots already lined up for them, it’s obvious this band is going places. From meeting the boys all the way to the end of the show, the whole night

oozed confidence and simplicity, in the same way their album does. So to find out what the band were thinking about the tour, we sat down with them for a chat.

It’s a pleasure to meet you guys! How’s your week been so far?

Ryan: A mixture of crazy and tiring, we came back from New York on Monday after our flight got cancelled and got held up in JFK for 12 hours Woah, what did you guys do in that time?

Callum: We went for a sauna actually which was nice yeah saw a bit too much of the lads I think, got closer I guess, if we weren’t already close enough touring Well, having come back from America are you feeling a bit jet lagged?

Ryan: Nah not really, it was worse on the way there. Adrenaline just kicked in on the way back really.

Harry: We went back to Liverpool to pick up the van which was tiring but I think because we knew that gig had sold out we didn’t let it affect us.

Callum: Just got to keep drinking really, gets you through So guys, what has it felt like being back on the road?

Ryan: We’ve never been fully on the road before, like this is first 7 week chunk of shows

we’ve done. Everything else has just been a week. So it’s exciting as it’s new for us.

Callum: Honestly drinking just gets you through everything, it’s a laugh touring.

Harry: Honestlt Callum isn’t always like this with drink I promise!

Callum: Well okay remember to eat your fruit and veg as well kids.

Being part of the Heavenly Family, what is it you enjoy about working with those guys? Has it provided you with any extra skills?

Ryan: Just knowing Jeff is amazing, the heavenly family is just amazing. They encourage you and let you do what you want and seeing other bands and seeing what they produce is inspiring as well.

So with a number of artists on their rosta including Temples, Kid Wave and Toy, what do you think you as ‘Hooton Tennis Club’ bring to the party?

Ryan: Nonsense probably. I dunno? It sounds like a joke answer but they can all play their instrument properly and we’re just that little kid brother in the family who tries to join in.

Callum: We’re underage at the party, but we were invited which is the main thing.

Not only are you a band, but you are a group of friends who have grown up together. How has that strengthened your chemistry as a band?

James: I think it helps because it means that we can have stupid arguments with each other but then it can blow over. But then it’s hard because it kind of feels like you can’t really tell people what you think, I would say that I hold back on what I say a lot.

Callum: No I would disagree, I think it’s easier to be upfront because we are so close, you little shit’s!

Brilliant guys! So with this current tour then, do you have any specific priorities and ambitions?

James: If there’s a shower in every venue Callum is going to be happy Ryan: It’s weird because it’s like what’s the next step? We want to just keep making good records.

It’s easy to remember that this is a job and you’ve got to still remember that you started it because you wanted to do it. At the moment it’s hard to concentrate on making music with the work and management becoming the priority.

I get that, so for a new listener, are there any particular tracks that would be a good starting point for them?

Harry: ‘Up in the air’ definitely because I think it

covers everything that we’re about.

When you released your debut album, ‘Highest Point in Cliff Town’, how happy were you with the attention it received?

Ryan I think it’s worth getting any attention and I think we were more excited about it being out, in the shops and in HMV. My aunty sent me a photo of it in the racks and because of that I don’t care if anyone listens to it, just having it out is enough.

Harry: It’s good to know that unless something awful happens that it’s always going to be there, it might be in the bargain rack but it is always going to be out there.

There can often be a lot of pressure when it comes to any new material, but in regards to the album what did you want it to represent about the spirit of Hooton Tennis Club as a band?

Ryan: It’s just about being happy about what we’re happy with it. There’s no real routine, it just has to feel right. You’ve got to be happy with it or the listeners won’t be happy with it, you’re always doing it for yourself really.

When it comes to the song writing process – how easy do you find it to put everyday situations and emotions into your music? Have there been any songs which have really touched you?

Harry: Sometimes when we play ‘Jasper’ and we stare at Callum and he has a little smile on his face its nice and it’s funny to remember when we wrote it and how happy we were and why we wrote it.

So on these shows you will be playing over the next few weeks, what can the fans experience from your set?

Harry: Maybe a few new songs, a Beatles cover and a collaboration with the parrots.

Cool! And if Darkus looked inside your mind, or spent the day with you, what would we see?

James: You’d just see loads of bad puns and just us acting like we are now but in the van.

Ryan: That and a lot of alcohol if you’re with Callum apparently.

Well guys, it’s been an absolute pleasure speaking to tonight, I wish you all the best with your tour and tonight’s show! I’m sure you’ll rock it.

Interview by Megan Lowes

//inheaven Darkus Magazine: How have you found being on the recent DIY Tour with VANT and Big Moon?

James: Its been really good. All the gigs have been great as well as the other two bands, so yeah it is a dream really.

DM: What do you want the vision and the music of INHEAVEN to represent?

J: We want it to represent a mixture and influence of bands we grew up listening to – Smashing Pumpkins, Sonic Youth etc. We were frustrated that there wasn’t really a band around anymore that we liked so were like lets do it ourselves and see how far we can take it.

We wanted to bring back the physical element of the bands that influenced us such as buying a t-shirt, CD or vinyl, which sometimes you don’t see so much of in this new digital age.

DM: With your latest single ‘Bitter Town’ being released on 30th October 2015, do you see it

as more of a trick or a treat.

J: Definitely a treat for everyone’s eyes and ears!

DM: What does it feel like having your material played on air by the likes of Annie Mac? J: Pretty crazy to be honest. The first time we got played it was a home demo, something which personally we thought was crap. To have it then being chosen on national radio with such positive feedback was actually quite nice.

With Bitter Town, when that that got played we were in the car and reaction I think I probably did a little hyper scream haha!

DM: How has being on the band with other bands enhanced INHEAVEN’s own personal development?

J: I think you learn from each other. We still don’t have as much experience playing live so when you’re touring with the likes of Big Moon and VANT, it is a learning curve for us too.

DM: Are you happy with 2015?

J: Yes! We are just excited to see what happens next!

DM: When releasing a track how easy is it to have confidence in what you have created?

J: I think the best way is just to let go and not think about it. There is an element of believing in your music, and just jumping ship and do it.

DM: The best place to begin a potential new fans journey with you?

J: Coming to a live show and speaking to us at the merch stand!

DM: Song writing influences – what are they?

J: Most of it is subconscious then when you listen to it back you are like ‘oh yeah it sounds like that record I use to like’.

DM: Have you ever been pleasantly surprised?

J: I think if we use the DIY tour as an example, the interaction with the crowd has certainly got better.

DM: What are the next stages of INHEAVEN? J: There is a lot to do but definitely more live shows and an album!

Questions By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Answers By James Taylor (Vocals and Guitar)

//Leo Stannard Another exceptional UK artist to keep your eye on in 2016, is singer/song writer Leo Stannard.

Having signed to Sony/Black Butter which consists of the likes of Rudimental, Clean Bandit and pop sensation Jess Glynne, Leo is a little bit of an exception to what the label are usually quite used to. This is good because it shows a rising recognition and respect the music industry is showing the gifted singer/song writers which exist within our society.

Leo has a number of captivating tracks, but the one which first got my interest was his song ‘19’.

What you will find that Stennard has the ability to take every day thoughts and situation and make them poetic but still real, thus helping you as a listening not only to appreciate what he stands for but connect to the music he creates.

With ‘19’ specifically what this video teaches us is not to take the smallest things in life for granted, be it simply being in a presence of your favourite people or even more simpler than that being able to walk down the street or

seeing daylight.

The underlying message I feel that Leo is trying to portray, especially if you watch the music video where the we see the lead character reflecting on his life while in prison, is that our liberty is such a precious thing, so its up to us to be fruitful with it. Keeping it real though, this song also acknowledges hiccups happen and its about picking yourself back up from the challenges that life throws at you. The line “I’m finding my feet, but I miss you right now’ being the perfect example.

If 19 is anything to go by, then as a music fan it makes me want to discover more about – not just song wise, but about his journey as a whole. There is something special about Leo Stennard which will no doubt see him growing from strength to strength and inspiring new fans along the way. www.leostannard.com Article by Thushara S Chandrasiri

//martin luke brown There is nothing more intimate than a room full of young people listening to one man playing on his guitar and the only sound being his music and the occasional cheer. The music that Martin Luke Brown produces is something that becomes relatable the more you listen to him play.

He brings forward feelings of nostalgia and admiration through every word he sings, there’s a feeling that you were there with him when he wrote each song and has a stage presence of someone who was born to be on the stage.

First meeting with the young singer was so simply chilled, I couldn’t have asked for a nicer welcome than someone who can still hold their swagger while walking through a pub showing the world his patterned socks. From that introduction, to the interview and to after the show it was obvious Martin was enjoying every element of this laidback tour and was so ready for more fun and excitement to unravel in 2016.

Darkus Magazine: It’s so great to meet you! So how are you finding the tour and travelling so far?

Martin: Aw yeah I’m loving it! Newcastle’s really cool, I think it’s the only place I’ve never really been so I’m really enjoying the vibe in Newcastle, we’re planning on head out tonight so I’m looking forward to that.

DM: Any weird or good experiences from the tour that you can share with us?

M: Ah our first gig was a bit weird, it was in an old social club so half of the venue was still a pub so you saw the ticketing part and then on the other side there was lots of old men sitting round having a pint but it was still pretty cool I guess.

DM: Have you noticed yourself developing throughout your tour, with the way you perform songs?

M: Not noticeably but I’m sure overtime I do, there’s constant little lessons throughout and especially meeting people after the shows, which I love doing. From that you find out what the show was like and how people viewed the songs in general. And these gigs are a lot more stripped down and I like that because it’s a lot more personal so there’s fresh opinions from

the people who are actually going to buy the albums and the tickets and give a shit about it all which is good.

DM: With this current tour then, do you have any specific priorities and ambitions?

M: It’s literally just about having fun really, this tour is extremely stripped down and even with the stage set up its super naked and it’s very raw and I just want people to like me just playing on my piano, to appreciate the organic stuff before the real things begin.

DM: So tell me about the song writing process?

M: For each song it’s definitely different but then I guess each song starts with just me on my piano and that’s how it started for me when I was really young. Lately though, going into a studio and sitting with the producer is just as effective, we can produce anything by just a weird sound because producers get a boner for a weird sound and that’s just as wonderful as me and my piano. Building up a vibe first is definitely the best place to start, the lyrics just come later.

DM: For people who haven’t heard your music, how would you describe it to them?

M: It’s hard to be honest but I think it’s quite gritty, my vocals are gritty but in regards to production it’s pretty raw and basically classic sounds but fucked up which is broken and beautiful.

DM: Are there any particular tracks that would be a good starting point for a new listener?

M: I think probably ‘scars on scars’, in terms of where I’m going that’s the best one. It’s quite poetic and raw and just has all the elements of me in there.

DM: What do you want your music to represent about you?

M: Honesty really. The meanings of each song completely differ you know and it sounds really weird but I think it’s quite nice when things are a little bit wrong, everything is really characterful and human which I love. Imperfection is key.

DM; What do you think you bring to the music industry in 2015?

M: I pride myself on not being perfect, I enjoy the mess that is the music process. If things aren’t perfect everything hits home a lot more.

DM: Have there been any songs of yours that have touched you?

M: Nostalgia is a bit weird, because when I wrote it I was in a weird place. I’d been writing a lot of pop songs because I was so desperate to get my big break and I just compromised a lot and I wasn’t enjoying it as much. Then I wrote nostalgia and at the time it was quite poignant because of friends leaving university and after I finished that song I basically got signed and everything after it became pretty wild.

DM: How do you view the year 2015 for you?

M: This whole has been a bit of a learning curve, I’ve been signed now for about a year and I’ve just learnt a lot. It kind of just became a job for a while, and I was kicking myself for ages thinking I wasn’t doing well but I think this year has just taught me fuck it, just be you.

My time with Martin Luke Brown was completely refreshing, it’s encouraging to hear from someone who is so deeply involved in the perfection that can be the music industry that it’s totally okay to be weird and natural, that not everything revolves around perfection. And I love that and will take the words “I pride myself on not being perfect” with me into things I do.

Article and Interview By Megan Lowes Photos By Lee Smith

//NME Awards Tour 2016 One of my favourite highlights in the music calendar is the annual NME Tour! This year the line up consisted of Bugsy Malone, Rat Boy, and the lovely guys from Drenge plus headlining none other than Bloc Party! With a collection like that, it would be rude not to go along when the tour came to Newcastle on 4th February 2016.

I am sad that I never got the opportunity to check out Ratboy or Bugsy Malone, as I have heard many good things about these rising artists, and from speaking to the dream team’s very own Jemma Dodd when she covered their Cambridge show a few days later, Ratboy’s fans certainly had a lot of energy.

Despite this sadness though, I was happy that I was able to see Drenge. No stranger to Darkus Magazine, these chaps consisting of Eion on bass and vocals and his brother Rory on drums have had an impressive 12-18 months.

Having played the likes of Reading and Leeds, as well as a few shows of their own, the band have gone from strength to strength, with their fan base the most lively and devoted set of

individuals around. Their set at Newcastle as part of the NME tour showed a band who are on top of their game as their set was both electric and adrenaline filled. With their latest album Undertow having sensational success this set was the perfect opportunity see them take things to the next level and bring the album to life. Some of the favourite tracks of mine played on the night included Running Wild, the ever so popular ‘Fuckabout’ and ‘Bloodsports’, one of the first songs to convert me into a Drenge fan when I first saw them 2 years ago!

When it comes to shows such as NME there is only one way to embrace the music to its fullest and that is in the heart of the crowd, the gateway to the mosh pit! As soon as Drenge play, the crowd are not afraid to hold back and give it their all. A Drenge set is not for the faint hearted though as it requires absolute energy to make sure you survive it in one piece – or close enough ha! Despite only supporting, Eion nevertheless gave 110% which met and exceeded the expectations of fans, thus making it a perfect vibe for the rest of the night to come.

After a mind blowing performance it was time for the audience to take a quick break, ensure their limbs were in order, find their lost shoes, get refreshed and all that jazz as the stage was prepared for our NME hosts, Bloc Party.

Having a new line up, it was a case of not knowing what to expect, especially for a band which only recently came back onto the music scene with their latest album, Hymns. I suppose there is always that level of uncertainty when a band returns from being on hiatus for so long, however Bloc Party demonstrated that despite this short break they were nevertheless back and better, focused and more passionate than ever. With such an impressive collection of material, the band mixed it up a bit providing something for older fans as well as new. I must say I am a new one, so for me the tracks they played from Hymns such as The Love Within really caught my attention. One of those songs whether you’re listening to it on the album or seeing it played gives you butterflies of excitement…as the lyrics go, “the melody is taking over’. Truly one of those records where the music consumes your soul.

As frontman Kele Okereke greeted the crowd, the dynamics of the night changed as it was

time for the real party to begin. One of the things I discovered with Bloc Party was that even after all these years – active or otherwise they still manage to have the respect of their fans. What is even more humbling is that even after all this time they still manage to attract new fans, which dare I say it puts them on the path of being one of those timeless bands.

Bloc Party are not all about the lively high pace songs though, its also their deeper slower songs which equally do them justice as it allows you to concentrate on the heart and mind that goes into the band’s lyrics. I would say there was a nice mix of new and classic material thus making it a set which catered for all needs.

With this being the first time for me seeing Bloc Party live I cannot wait to discover more of their music and see how they continue to bless the 2016 music scene with their return! If you haven’t done so already, be sure to check out Hymns as it is the perfect way to discover where Bloc Party are at in their journey, and trust me it’s a pretty impressive and exciting place to be!

Article By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Photos By Jemma Dodd

//Northlane Now it is no secret to many of my friends how much of a massive fan of Tame Impala I am, so when the good people of Little Press informed me that Australian based band Northlane had done a cover on my favourite track ‘Let It Happen’, I kid you not I literally screamed! As a general rule I try to stay away from covers, but as I like Northlane it was an exception I was willing to make!

As soon as I clicked play, oh my days my heart just melted with excitement as it was just sensational to see how Northlane managed to beautifully merge the psychedelic vibes that make Tame Impala incredible, and combine it with their stylish touch which makes them one of the strongest metal bands to come out of Australia.

They have truly made this track their own and whether you’re listening to the original or this version by Northlane you nevertheless get the same level of beauty that make the song as a whole beautiful!

What is even more endearing is knowing the back story as to why Northlane selected Tame

Impala in the first place. Although the genres may be different, when you look past that, when the band looked at the song writing process the could see similaries between themselves and Tame Impala thus although appearing initially as a wild card when deciding on a cover, actually had more of a connection with the guys when they looked into it more.

Guitarist John Smith was quoted as saying, “Tame Impala might seem an odd choice for a cover from us, but it’s a band that has a fairly similar writing process, and a few common threads within their music and lyrics.”.

Northlane recently released their album ‘Node’ and are currently touring around Australia, after playing a number of intimate shows here in the UK. Based on what I have heard from the album and now this Tame Impala is that these are very exciting times for the Sydney five piece who are not afraid to take risks and take their music and astounding talent as musicians to new heights. http://northlanemerch.com Article by Thushara S. Chandrasiri

// O2 Academy Newcastle: 10 Years Newcastle’s tight knit music scene came together to celebrate the o2 Academy’s 10th Birthday on the 14th of October. The event was split between the two venues, both the main Academy, and the o2 Academy 2.

Bands from the area showcased what makes the Newcastle scene so great, all in the name of the Birthday of one of Newcastle’s best known venues. Headlining the bill was the fantastic Little Comets, who had the attentive crowd enjoying tracks from their various albums and EP’s. For many, this will have been the first time they have seen the band with their two new members.

Also featuring across both rooms, were local lads Shields and Street Party in Soho, who

both pulled huge crowds on the evening. Hyde and Beast returned to the main room, made up of former members of The Futureheads and Golden Virgins, and delighted their many loyal fans.

All in all, this was a great night for the Academy, and an even better night for Newcastle, which really showcased how many excellent bands are coming out of the region. The o2 Academy has always been the go to venue for big acts, and the night reassured that it will continue to be the access point for your favourite bands in the years to come.

By David Macnab

//Passion Falls 2016 is set to be an exciting year for Manchester based band, Passion Falls.

Relatively new to the music scene, this four piece consisting of Stu Winnington , Jordan Hunstone, Joss Croasdale and front man Jonny Holland have a refreshing edge about them which will no doubt see them fascinating music fans with their indie, pop and electronica fusion influences. The perfect example is their debut single, The Greatest Adventure. Whether you watch the official music video or simple just listen to the song on its only, listeners will find they are drawn into to a world where they discover the beauty and heart felt music – lyrically and beyond that Passion Falls has to offer.

Their debut EP also titled The Greatest Adventure, will be released via MUK

Records on 19th February 2016. Although only consisting of 4 tracks, each will has its own powerful identity, thus making it a nice introduction for new fans to discover 4 talented guys who have the potential to go incredibly far.

To discover more simply head over to: www.passionfalls.com www.facebook.com/PassionFalls www.mukrecords.com/artists/passion-falls soundcloud.com/passion-falls twitter.com/passionfalls

Article by Thushara S Chandrasiri

//Piano Wire Darkus Magazine: Hello guys, have you had a productive start to the new year?

Symren: Yeah it’s been really busy. We’ve been finishing off recording and mixing a new EP and getting ourselves ready to go and play a bunch of new songs on the tour. We have lots of songs so it’s hard to work out which ones to stick where. It’s always an exciting time. Fresh resolutions to not fuck everything up. Being nice.

Skipping down the street. We have big plans for 2016.

DM: Tell us a little bit about the current evolution of Piano Wire?

S: I think being in a band is the most incredible thing ever. Such a beautiful freedom. You can be anything you want to be. A licence to confront people and smash their boundaries. We’re all brothers really. The way it should be and we have a common belief in the limitless potential of music, words and fashion. We are constantly

writing and breathing new life into our music.

Sometimes we do feel like we’re on the Russian front all alone. There’s no safety in numbers. It’s the most comfortable I’ve ever been.

DM: You have a tour coming up soon, is there anything you want to do differently compared to previous shows you have played?

S: We’re really looking forward to playing our new songs. We’ve got a new one called Red Electric Flower which is set in the basement of a 1930s New York night club. The people never leave, and dance with their pants on their head. Sweating but grooving on psychedelic fruit juice. Hanging from the ceiling. A place for all the weirdos to hang.

DM: Many music fans will recognise some of the members from 80s Matchbox. How do you think the differences and similarities will be with Piano Wire?

S: It’s totally new band really but obviously elements of the spirit that Andy and myself had in Eighties Matchbox will always be there because that life force never dies. It’s part of who we are and always will be. You can’t destroy that. It’s been incredible being on this trip with Sean and Tim. They complete the gang beautifully and flip the whole band on its head. Fresh with so many ideas.

Anyway talking about Eighties Matchbox is a bit like talking about the ex wife. Ha! DM: With 2016 what do you see being some of your top priorities?

S: Once again staying alive. Making some friends. Tidying my flat.. And producing a masterpiece of a debut record. We are releasing a split 7” single “Visions of Disorder” with Hyena that will be available exclusively at the shows on the tour. Then we’ll put out another EP in spring with some music that we recorded with Gill Norton. It was amazing to work with Gill. He produced my favourite record “Bossanova” by the Pixies.

DM: What makes one of your shows that extra bit special?

S: I don’t think people come to our shows to whistle along to a few tunes. They come to be part of something. People like chaos really I believe. The general public have been brainwashed into thinking they like amoral clockwork. We give them something irregular.

A performance.

DM: What would be a good starting point for a new fan? Also what pre-listening advice would you give them before they are about to press that play button?

Crowd” came out last summer on Vinyl too.

Grab the 7” and the EP at one of the shows.

Make sure you haven’t slept for a couple of weeks before attempting any of these things.

DM: How do you view the music scene these days to say how it used to be 10/15 years ago? Do you find your still learning new things?

S: I really wasn’t aware that there was any music scene at all. Maybe we haven’t been invited. No one looks very happy in London really. I genuinely don’t know anyone else who’s in a band. I think there is a lot of fear in our culture and society as a whole. You always find the people though. The ones who feel the same and dress the same.

Bands and clothes and songs have always been so important to us. They are everything.

DM: What are your major influences when it comes to the song writing process?

S: Andy is an incredible musician so it’s a real honour to be writing with him. I couldn’t really go into what inspires him as I wouldn’t be able to do that justice. I can only draw on experience that’s it. That’s all I’ve got. Junkies, hookers, Mick Jones, Sandanista, Arthur Lee, pleasurable pastimes, Oscar Wilde, Charles Bukowski, leather jackets, freaks and formidables. Liquorice allsorts, Frank Black.

Jeffrey lee Pierce, Voltaire....

DM: As musicians what is that ideal form of recognition you can get?

S: To be considered honest and authentic is all we strive for. To be like nothing else. Fresh and new - that’s all we ask. www.piano-wire.com

S: Come to one of the shows. Come and speak with us. We did a cool video for our last single “I’ll Kill You” with the legendary Steve Gullick which they can check out on you tube. Our debut EP “The Genius of the

Questions By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Answers By Symren Gharial Photo By: Keira Cullinane

//Rosie Lowe

Devon born musician Rosie Lowe has been tipped to be one of the break through artists of 2016 by many within the UK music scene. Having worked hard and blowing minds and melting hearts with her beautiful soulful single releases such as ‘Who’s That Girl?’ and ‘Worry About Us’, fans will be pleased to hear that on 19th February Rosie will be releasing her highly anticipated debut album, Control via Wolf Tone and Polydor Records.

Having done a bit of research and digging about, I was fortunate to get an exclusive listen to one of the tracks on the album, Woman. Such a captivating song, and the stunning vocals of

Lowe just draw you in. Lyrically this is a track that sees her discuss what it is like to be a proud, confident and strong woman and the territory that goes with it. Being a guy I can still relate to what Rosie Lowe is trying to do with this song, and I truly respect her for that, because in essence she is expressing those thoughts that are going on in a person’s mind and channelling it in a way which is poetic and honest.

Rosie Lowe is a new one to me, but if Woman is anything to go by, I have a good feeling about her, and just know that there is incredible potential which will see it being a year where both Rosie and the debut album create a special vibe to those who take the time to invest it the music of Rosie Lowe.

To celebrate the release of Control in style, Rosie will be heading out on the road in February, so be sure you get yourselves to one of the dates below as this is one experience you don’t want to miss.

February 19th – Manchester, Soup Kitchen 20th – Leeds, Headrow House 24th – Brighton, The Hope and Ruin 25th – London, Oslo 26th – Bristol, Louisiana To find out more about Rosie Lowe be sure to check out the following: http://rosielowe.com/ https://www.facebook.com/rosielowemusic https://twitter.com/rosielowemusic https://www.youtube.com/user/ RosieLoweVEVO Article by Thushara S. Chandrasiri

//Secrets everything that got us here San Diego based band, Secrets released their latest album, ‘EVERYTHING THAT GOT US HERE’ in December 2015 which having listened to the record myself is something you should not miss out on. Having to listen to a mix number of genre as editor, it always makes me smile when I come across a bit of post-hardcore/rock, especially material from a band as talented as Secrets.

From start to finish this album is full of intense adrenaline fuelled tracks, each with its own identity and story, thus making it strong on all levels. If you listen to the lyrics closely as well, I enjoy and respect the fact that the words are in depth and meaningful, thus making it easy as a listener to relate to.

With such a perfectly balanced record, how does any one decide a favourite? Its almost

impossible, however there are a few which I will highlight as I think they demonstrate the diversity SECRETS create through their music.

The first to point out would be Rise Up, the first single to be released from the album.

Musically its gives out a rather positive vibe which draws you in, thus encouraging you to pay attention. Although there is the use of unclean vocals on this track, it is actually the clean vocals that give this track the extra edge as it enables you to concentrate on the positive message within the lyrics.

My second recommendation would be ‘I’ll Be Fine’. It is one of those songs which sees the band incorporating every day situations and problems in to their music thus making it honest and real. We all have those times when life can get top of us, and you don’t know whetheryou’re coming or going.

In addition you will most likely experience those moments of sadness or frustration, but what SECRETS do here with this track is remind us that those feelings are temporary, and as long as we don’t give up, everything will soon be fine. The way that the band have tried to approach the issue is well executed while at same time leaving you with a very catchy tune.

The closing track of this album, The One With No One, is my final recommendation. It shows that even as a post hardcore band its perfectly ok to release material which is purely clean, and to do end the record in this fashion, actually makes it very refreshing to listen to.

Lead vocalist Richard Rogers, just has one of those voices that regardless of your gender

just captivates you.

I am still discovering SECRETS so for anyone like me just at the start of their journey, I would say hands down that Everything That Got Us Here would be an ideal starting point. As I said previously this album is filled with honesty but more importantly about keeping it real. If that ticks all the right boxes for you, then what you waiting for, go check out the album right now!

Website: http://secretsofficial.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ secretsofficial/ Article By Thushara Chandrasiri

//The Cadillac Three A Tennessee based band, The Cadillac Three came to Newcastle in February as part of their popular and in high demand, UK tour. A band which was new to me, I was quite excited to see what I would discover as I went along to the show.

As I entered the basement of Newcastle University student union I was met with an impressive crowd of people, as even during the support bands, the place was packed out and thriving with life – with still more music fans making their way.

Once the Cadillac Three entered the stage with their fun loving, southern rock influences the energy levels in the room increased tenfold.

Bearing in mind that the show in Newcastle attracted a larger number of older people, they nevertheless didn’t hold back and were just as energetic and embracing the music as much as anyone else.

Bearing in mind I never knew about this trio before this night, I was soon won over by the cheeky Tennessee charm of front man Jaren

Johnston and the addictive tracks such as ‘Tennessee Mojo’, ‘White Lightening’ and my new favourite track for drinking, dancing and partying to, ‘Party Like You’, were enough to get people excited and embrace the music regardless of whether they were already a fan or not.

Southern rock is something I have somewhat abandoned due to other genres taking priority which I hang my head at in shame as at one stage over the past few years I often regarded it as a guilty pleasure. However having witnessed The Cadillac Three its time to man up and give this genre of music some respect and luvin.

Another thing is certain as well, I will be sure as hell to keep my eyes on the awesome music and progress of Tennessee’s finest, The Cadillac Three.

Article by Thushara S Chandrasiri

//the cribs interview Darkus Magazine: Nice to meet you Gary. You have been busy with your UK tour, how do you think it went?

Gary: It feels weird man, we haven’t done a UK tour for what feels like a long time. We tried to pull up a whole new set list because were at a point where we have 6 records so it’s a case of trying to mix things up a little bit. The first night of tour everyone is always kind of a bit nervous because you have to work out all the bugs with the gear, and making the most of sound checks to rehearse some of the old songs. It’s a mixture of feeling excited and confident when you see the set list then nervous with the new protocol I guess.

DM: When you are back on the road does it ever feel like the first day back at school?

G: In a way it does because our tour was back in October, so that whole autumn season always reminds me of that first day at school, so I guess yeah. We had a new bunch of bands we took on the road with us, so was our first time hanging out with them.

DM: What has been some of the special

moments to happen to The Cribs over the past 12 months?

G: We went to the USA which I love because whenever we go, we tour in a hands on kind of way because it’s such a big country. The drives are so long, and I am in a van with a few crew members and my brothers so it’s really fun. Obviously we played the main stage at Reading and Leeds which to me was always like a dream, because when I was a kid I grew up going to Reading through the 90s so it’s good even now it’s a festival that continues to blow my mind.

DM: From your latest album you released a few of the tracks as singles do you still get excited to new material even after all these years?

G: Yes! For example Summer of Chances one of our favourites from the latest record as we believed in it the most, so you know its one that I feel was important for us so I was excited for it to come out. For people that haven’t heard the record yet I think it’s a good representation of our music and where we are at. Single releases don’t mean the same as they use to. I remember

back on the second and third record singles would come out on the same day and you would put out a few versions including a couple of CDs and Vinyl etc. You would be looking at the charts and stuff thinking what is going to happen – will it rise, will it fall? Now though its more to do with Spotify and digital downloads.

The direction towards digital has taken some of the excitement out for me because now people can casually stream material on the internet, rather than the days where it was all about the excitement of having a physical release. You’re never going to sell enough 7” Vinyl to compete with the charts, so now you have to adapt your mentality and tell yourself as long you are happy with the single then that’s all that matters.

DM: A lot of people watch shows these days through their phones despite being in the same room. What’s your view on that?

G: It’s a funny one because it makes me feel bummed out for people as it’s a really particular compulsion to record the moment rather than living the moment. It’s weird to think “I want to remember this moment so I will record it”, but then because your concentrating on recording it you’re not really there in the room so you won’t remember it for what it was then. It won’t portray the same memory when you view it back on your computer, and that’s the thing that bothers me. I remember as a kid going to see gigs and I was really overwhelmed because you would be in a big room, it would be dark and it would be loud. There would be a crush of people and you would jumping around and delirious. I would get home the next day and wouldn’t remember anything of the gig just little snippets. That was really special to me because it made gigs kind of ‘other worldly’ to me and now I think to have like an explicit memory of it takes away a little bit of that magic.

DM: The Cribs continue to grow from strength to strength, what do you think that is down to?

G: I don’t know to be honest. It’s really nice to think that we have built a fan base in an old fashion way and its worked because fans are remaining loyal and dedicated to us so that has helped to give us the confidence to do whatever we want. We haven’t ever worried about fans deserting us. If you have one of these freak

success moments that some bands do you always kind of worry about being deserted once the next new trend comes along. Things developed differently for us, and hopefully that’s why we have manage to go on an upward trajectory because we have had the confidence to develop and grow.

DM: Where do you see yourselves in your current journey as musicians?

G: I go through phases because sometimes I feel like a new band, because a lot of my peers back in America like Thurston Moore have been in bands for like 20 years so there the people who inspire me, thus making The Cribs feel like juniors compared to names like that. In the UK however its different because so much has happened. We have seen bands come and go and it feels almost were like old school. It’s cool though because support bands on our latest tour like PAWS are a great new band are in that first flush of excitement,. They listened to us when they were still teenagers and its really flattering as a band when the people who play alongside you grew up being influenced by your music. It gives you a whole new lease of life almost.

DM: Were starting to see a rise of northern bands. Being originally from Wakefield, what does it feel like knowing that The Cribs are part of that mix?

G: It’s a weird one because I found in the UK regionalism is pretty big especially to the fans and to the press to I think. Whereas for me as a musician I don’t really think about it that much as it doesn’t really affect the way I go about writing. At the same time I can appreciate the pride that others would get being acknowledged from being from a specific town and makes me humble as it makes you feel like a representative. Northern bands I feel tend to have a separatist agenda because a lot of them don’t want to be merged into the London scene. I guess we were like that at first with the Cribs because we tried to avoid being drawn into that kind of thing.

DM: As a vocalist and bassist what are the extra responsibilities?

G: I never expected to be a singer and I am not traditionally a singer but I have to do it because

at the end of the day I am a musician and a writer so I have to be able to play and translate my lyrics into song form. I am quite shy as a person, so talking on stage is a bit difficult.

At the same time I don’t want to be boring. In all honesty though I rather not speak at all if I had the choice rather than be one of these cheesy entertainer types, so that’s why a lot of the chat we have on stage as a band is self-deprecating dumb humour. Maybe that’s engaging to the crowd in a weird way much as more real and down to earth as a band rather than a rock and roll attitude.

DM: What does the spirit of The Cribs represent?

G: Hopefully its independence. We are band that have really built ourselves up from humble beginnings. We have got to a point where we are able to have top ten records and play big venues without having to compromise too much.

My hope if anything is that we are remembered for having that approach and hope that makes other bands realise that you don’t need massive radio or TV coverage to build your identity as long as you are sincere about things then

it should work out well in the long run. We ourselves took the long route which makes us look like the tortoise in the story of the tortoise and the hare.

DM: If we were to spend the day with you, what would we get up to?

G: Me personally I am the sort of person who reads a lot. On a morning when I get up and have breakfast I will be reading then usually spend a bit of time messing about in my studio.

Then on a night I get drunk probably and start writing lyrics in a bar because that’s what I like to do. For me being a lyricist is hard because like I said I am quite shy in a lot of ways so I don’t like people knowing too much about me fundamentally. Instead I like to be on my own with a few drinks because for me I find I can be a lot more open and honest if I am a little bit buzzed and no one around. I don’t really do much outside of music, growing up it was my hobby and now it’s more like my job.

Questions By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Answers By Gary Jarman

//The Cribs The Cribs live shows are renowned for their high energy, and their Newcastle show was no exception. The band played a huge 22 song set, much to the delight of the crowd.

The band’s latest album, “For All My Sisters”, came out earlier in the year, and this tour was yet another tour under the bands belt. The Cribs seem like that one band that never stop touring.

breathe between songs before smashing into another one of their rowdy rock anthems.

The evening was opened by PAWS, and fellow Leeds heavyweights Pulled Apart By Horses, who set the scene nicely, right before the Jarman Brothers took the stage to a very impressive sized crowd.

Ending on Pink Snow, the latest album closer, which is a 7 minute long ride of drops and build ups, the Newcastle crowd really gave it everything they had left, there was not a single person left in the academy who wasn’t sweating, which I’m sure The Cribs would take as an achievement.

As this was the first night of the tour, no-one knew exactly what to expect in terms of set list or length, and older fans of The Cribs will have left the venue at the end of the gig feeling very impressed by the diversity and range of songs from their six albums.

Opening with Ancient History and going straight into fan favourite I’m a Realist straight after, the band barely gave you time to

A major highlight was when the band played Be Safe from the album Men’s Needs, Women’s Needs, Whatever, seeing fans of all ages really getting into screaming the chorus back to the band, something you just have to experience for yourself.

Be sure to check out what happened when Thushara caught up with Gary Jarman from The Cribs.

Article By David Macnab Photos By Katy Blackwood

//the libertines Our first show of 2016 started in style here at Darkus Magazine, as we headed down to Manchester Arena on 23rd January to catch The Libertines for their UK Arena tour. Having myself last seen the band back in 2014, as still a relatively new fan, I was really excited for a chance to see these fine gentleman once again. I have no hesitation in declaring that The Libertines are one of those timeless bands which bring together fans of all backgrounds and ages, and with the long journey they have had, even to this day are strong, thus still managing to excite with their music.

To quote one of the music fans stood near me on the night, there is only one way to appreciate the band when at the show, and that’s by being on your feet, so that you can take in the vibes and embrace. As I looked around the room, it was so nice to see while everyone discussing what they think makes the Libertines one of the best legendary bands around – so its safe to say that there is nothing but love and respect. This was even before the band had come onto the stage, so you can imagine what the levels of adrenaline would be

like once the band start playing.

As soon as Carl, Gary, Paul and of course the incredible Pete Doherty stepped onto the stage, the crowd went wild, and after those initial screams, it was time to dance! Playing well known tracks such as ‘Can’t Stand You Now’, ‘Time For Heroes’ and my personal favourite classic, ‘Don’t Stare Back At The Sun’ this set was full of tracks which showed how far the band have come and what makes them the talented band they are. What was equally good was that it was an opportunity to hear material from their latest album, Anthems For Doomed Youth which was released back in September 2015. Many have debated about the album, but in my opinion I welcome the new record as I see it as something which shows to be a true musician, the key is to keep on creating. Therefore when ‘Gunga Din’, ‘You’re My Waterloo’ and ‘Heart Of The Matter’ were played at the show, I did not hold back as I sang along at the top of my lungs. Being in the heart of the crowd as well, it would be rude not to join in with the dancing either. Fans sat on each others shoulders, and a decent number of

crowd surfers, plus people raising their pints, its safe to say it was a true party atmosphere here at Manchester.

On stage meanwhile, the band were equally pumped with adrenaline, with each member being sure to show what they each bring to the party. At the end of the day though, what is priceless is that these gentleman have confidence in their music, and despite wanting to have a good time on stage, still know how to take things seriously.

Having only been following their music since 2014, being able to come to this January 2016 Arena as both a writer and lover of live music, was just one of those brilliant memories that I wish I could relive all over again!

Article By Thushara Chandrasiri Photos By Katy Blackwood

//The Maccabees After many years since their last formal UK tour, The Maccabees returned to the o2 Academy Newcastle, and they certainly did not disappoint. This tour follows the release of their first ever number one album “Marks To Prove It”, and their set was the perfect mix of tracks from the album, but also many of the fan favourites from their previous albums.

The Maccabees took to the stage to rapturous applause, they were clearly missed in their absence. Opening on the title track of the album, Marks To Prove It, the capacity crowd made sure the band had a great time on the stage, passionately singing every lyric back to them. A highlight came during “Something Like Happiness”, a new track from the album. Listening to the crowd overpower Orlando Weeks (vocals), and singing in unity like a giant choir was definitely something that I will never forget, it was to put it simply, beautiful.

Ending their set (before they went off for the encore) with Grew Up at Midnight,

Orlando thanked the crowd for being part of something special, and that’s what it truly felt like, it could easily be said that The Maccabees put the show of the year on at the academy. To close the evening, the band played arguably their biggest track to date, Pelican, which delighted fans old and new.

After their set, the band tweeted that the Newcastle date felt like “the best one we’ve ever had here” and the audience definitely agreed, with the applause and screams as the band left the stage for the final time being louder than the band were.

The perfect evening.

Article By David Macnab Photos By Katy Blackwood

//The Story So Far There’s always that inevitable moment at the beginning of a gig where we’re unsure what to do with ourselves before the first performance so we just stand around making a bit of small talk (unless of course we’ve had a few too many pre-drinks resulting in us shouting lyrics before any of the acts begin). However at this specific show the awkward silence was immediately demolished by support band Turnstile, bringing rage and hostility to Newcastle’s quayside venue ‘Riverside’. It’s safe to say that the Turnstile lads definitely warmed us up for the raspy vocals and heavy drum beats from our favourite pop-punk ensemble The Story so Far. The Californian quintet released their newest album ‘The Story So Far’ in May 2015 wowing fans from around the globe by including the heavier stuff that us TSSF fans have came to know and love alongside some slow paced relaxing melodies such as ‘Phantom’ providing euphony to all listeners. To celebrate this amazing release the boys embarked on a tour to please the ears of fans everywhere. Over

here in Newcastle we were lucky enough to witness what the boys had to show and we were most definitely not disappointed.

As the show began the main lights were dimmed and a light show with an array of vibrant flashing colours started. Shortly after, the edgy five-piece stormed onto stage and initiated a mosh pit filling the whole front half of the room - pushing people into every crevice of the tightly packed venue - as popular favourite ‘Empty Space’ was the first thrashing tune to escape from the speakers, transforming the crowd into a rabble of monsters competing for who could scream the lyrics loudest in sync with vocalist Parker Cannon. Other songs from this album such as ‘Things I Can’t Change’ and ‘The Glass’ were weaved into their invigorating set - the crowd seeming even happier and energetic with each song.

TSSF even threw it back to their under soil and dirt album, pleasantly surprising the crowd with a bit of their older stuff each time they chimed in with a throw back song. The nostalgia really kicked in though when

Cannon began to croon the soothing melody of ‘Clairvoyant’ giving the band a well deserved break from their so far thrilling set.

This is when the crowd calmed for a while and sang along in harmony whilst simultaneously scrambling through their belongings to find a lighter to hold up during the remainder of the emotional song. Clairvoyant was followed by outstanding performances of some of their well known tunes ‘Quicksand’, ‘Framework’ and ‘Roam’.

Just when we thought we’d been given enough the eruptive sound of High Regard

poured from the amps and sent the crowd into a frenzy of jumping and punching, using what little energy they had left from the exhilarating set to power through and make sure they enjoyed every second in the presence of our walnut creek wonders. This show was one to remember and we cannot wait till next time for The Story So Far guys to make an appearance in Newcastle so we can relive this fantastic experience and enjoy them all over again!

Article By Eve Monaghan

//Twin Atlantic Twin Atlantic are a band that we interviewed in our last issue of Darkus. They are a rock band from Glasgow, Scotland and have been touring on and off since they formed in 2007.

I am quite a big fan of them so I went to see them at an intimate gig at the Brudenell Social Club in Leeds for this review.

The venue was a small club in the Hyde Park area which is relatively out of the way of Leeds city centre and has a capacity of 400 people. I found this quite unusual for a band that is as big as Twin Atlantic are. However, it turned out to be a great night with some great acts and the venue was not as odd as I had imagined.

Twin Atlantic were supported by 2 bands, Life and Creeper. Life were, well, lively, and the crowd seemed surprised at how good they were at crowd command and how well they complimented the main act. They were very stereotypically ‘British Rock’ and seemed to take influence from the band Pulp but with a punk vibe. I enjoyed Life very much and they put on a great show.

Next in the line up were Creeper, a pop punk band hailing from Southampton.

Creeper, though not as memorable as Life to me personally, seemed to be quite popular amongst the other attendees, with one girl in particular belting out the lyrics to their songs.

Though both of these bands were very good and knew how to have a good time, nothing could have prepared me for the show that Twin Atlantic were about to put on.

As soon as Creeper packed away their instruments and Twin Atlantic’s crew came on to set up ready for the show, the crowd became filled with suspense, which then turned into impatience, and the crowd became loud to a deafening degree, which only escalated once Twin Atlantic walked on stage.

This was a bookmark in my life as I have been listening to them since they started back in 2007 and have been following them since and even I could not have imagined just how amazing this show was going to be.

‘Crashland’ in particular was a crowd favourite, as the band got us involved and we sung quite a bit of the song for them, which was extremely fun, as every single person knew the lyrics and everyone thoroughly enjoyed it.

But my personal favourite was the first song they played, ‘What is Light, Where is Laughter’, as this was one of the first songs I ever listened to by the band. During the last song the crowd became determined to enjoy themselves as much as they could, as they knew the show was about to end, and they played one of their new songs, ‘Heart and Soul’, which everybody knew the words to already as it was just so catchy yet melodic.

The show ended with a crowd surf and the end of the show was highly emotional for everybody, and I got the impression that everybody attending the show was as big of a fan as I am, if not more. Overall, this was one of the highlights of my year so far.

Review & Photos by Kelsey Robertshaw

//ubeat awards 2015

ubeat awards 2015 //the waiters Although Darkus does focus a lot on national and international artists, from time to time we do ensure we keep an eye on what is going on in music scene we have here within the North East. Over the past few months there has been a rise of many gifted people as well as numerous competitions to help celebrate local music. At the end of 2015 the North East’s first Music Awards Show took place, hosted by Dan Charles and the Ubeat team. Not wanting to miss out on the opportunity to celebrate new music we caught up with a couple of winners from the event who are destined to go far and make 2016 even more exciting.

The first set of special guests we spoke to was The Waiters and their incredible manager, Chelsea Wood.

Darkus Magazine: Hello guys! Tell us a little bit about who The Waiters are and your journey so far?

The Waiters: Hey! We’re Dan, Sam, Jack and Martin and we’re a pop band from Newcastle!

Journey so far is a pretty big question! Haha

we’ve done some cool stuff in the 3 years we’ve been together though. We’ve played with people like Ed Sheeran, Nicole Scherzinger, Ella Eyre, Ella Henderson, Jess Glynne, Clean Bandit, 5ive, Atomic Kitten, Liberty X and Shayne Ward. That’s all the fancy stuff though, we basically write music and love performing it live as mates!

DM: Being local musicians how have you found the North East music scene?

TW: The scene here is actually much better than people think! We absolutely love doing local gigs because the crowds are so loud! There are less promoters for pop music but it means that the gigs are really well attended when they do go ahead! We have a lot of friends in the industry down south who prefer gigging here than in London etc, so we’re obviously doing something right in the North East!

DM: What do you think it takes to be a strong band – both on and off stage?

TW: A solid friendship is the main thing. We spend a lot of time together, outside of the band too. We’re all best mates so we get on that

stage and just have a laugh! Loads of people tell us that that’s what they really like about watching us live. Likewise off stage we’ll go to the cinema, or to gigs and just chill together.

There hasn’t been a point where we haven’t enjoyed it and that’s the best part!

DM: You took part in this year Ubeat Awards in December. What was is like to be chosen to involved in the whole process?

TW: We’re actually really honoured to be involved! We love being from the North East so being recognised for our music here feels amazing. To be up for 2 awards is crazy too!

Especially being nominated for Act of The Year, that’s the biggest award of the night so we’re chuffed to be in that category! Massive shout out to Ubeat TV for having us!

DM: What was it like to win best band?

We were so chuffed! Haha, the other bands in our category are really good so we were buzzing to be chosen! We had loads of fans come down and watch the event too so the reaction from the crowd was insane!

DM: Your manager Chelsea, also had a good day by winning best manager. What is it about her you love the most? And secondly what makes a strong band-manager relationship?

TW: Yeah we loved seeing Chelsea win Manager of The Year! She really deserved it!

We love the fact that she somehow manages to look after us 4, it’s probably not the easiest of jobs! Haha. But she’s exactly like us which is why it works. We’ve all come up from the very bottom, working together, learning how to crack the industry and we love that we’ve had a team together from day one. We really like how fair she is too, she’s always got a business head on but makes sure we’re not being messed around, or likewise that we aren’t over pricing anything or asking too much of people. That’s probably why our fan base is so loyal. We just see the band as having 5 people and it’s a strong team!

She’s tiny too, so if she’s angry with us we can just pick her up and put her in a cupboard and run away! haha DM: What direction do you wish to take your music next?

TW: We’re actually in the process of recording our first album and we love the way it’s going

forward! We’re using added production that we’ve never had before, synths on the tracks, strings over the ballads, things that may seem simple but the way we’ve used it makes our tracks really stand out. (You’ll have to hear them to really get a feel for it!). We’re influenced by bands such as Busted and McFly so there’s definitely elements of their music running through our own whilst keeping our individuality too. We really want these tracks to reflect how much fun we’re having as a band and we think they’re a good representation of that so far! Some of the tracks will be available on our YouTube channel in 2016 so keep an eye out for them!

DM: As a four piece band what characteristics do you think each of you bring to The Waiters?

TW: Jack is the entertainer, he’s great at interacting with crowds so he makes an awesome front man. He’s the daft one too, he’ll be the one jumping off the front of the stage and trying to make the audience sing! So you’ve been warned if you’re in the front row! Haha we have to deal with it too though, he’s the one hiding your clothes when we’re on tour or filming us whilst we’re asleep......the one we’re most likely to accidentally leave behind at the service station......just kidding!

Dan is our primary songwriter, so he’s probably the boss if we had one! He’s the guy who makes sure everything is in place for gigs, if there’s a problem with something we’d go to him!

We always say that Sam is the mysterious one because people keep asking us who that would be! Haha he’s actually a bit of an all rounder though, he’s great with the fans and he’s also really good at working on production on our tracks in the studio.

Last but not least our Martin! He’s insanely talented on the drums as you’ll know if you’ve seen him play live. But martin is the lovable one, he’s definitely the fan favourite! He’s a real nice guy so that obviously comes across to everyone.

DM: At the local level, what is the biggest recognition you could ever receive?

TW: Selling out the Metro Radio Arena at our headline show has to be the goal locally. When we played there with Ed Sheeran we held a meet and greet at half time, 1000 people

turned up and security had to shut it down. The whole thing was really overwhelming so we’d absolutely love to headline there ourselves one day.

DM: So for anyone new to your music, take us through some of the songs in your collection which you know will leave music fans impressed?

TW: We’re loving our latest tracks at the minute – ‘Back Where I Began’ has been a favourite recently but ‘Run With Me’ is sounding amazing in the studio! We have acoustic versions of these on YouTube but the studio versions will be out really soon! We’re actually hoping to have something ready to release in December as a Christmas treat so look our for that! ‘The Party Song’ goes down really well live with the fans so check that out too!

DM: 2015 saw you have many brilliant opportunities from supporting Atomic Kitten and 5ive. Thinking back over past 12 months, have you had any personal highlights?

TW: Everyone’s highlight was playing at Christmas Live with Ed Sheeran, Nicole Scherzinger, Ella Henderson, Ella Eyre, Labrinth, Jess Glynne and more! That was something we’re aspiring to do every night if we can so it blew us away! Plus the food backstage was amazing! Haha recently though we’ve just played to a crowd of 30,000 people which was one of the best feelings we’ve ever had! The crowd just went on and on and it gave us a feel of what playing bigger festivals must be like.

We also toured the UK for the first time this year and it was great to be able to go out and meet our fans all over the country, that’s one of the best feelings because we normally only talk to these people on twitter etc so actually meeting them and seeing them sing our music back to us was the best thing!

DM: How about 2016 then? What exciting adventures will you be taking your fans on this year?

TW: This year we have something massive! We’re putting on our first ever mini festival at the O2 Academy Newcastle main stage called The Waiters Summer Warm Up! It’s a family focused event for anyone 8+ on Wednesday 20th July 2016 and It’s being backed by Metro Radio. We’re raising money for local children’s charity Cash for Kids which keeps all the money within the North East too!

We’re big on supporting the local community and we hope everyone gets behind it and comes along for a good time! Tickets are only £10 and can be bought from the O2 Academy box office or online from the O2 Academy website and the Music Glue website. All the info is on our Facebook page too.

DM: Most valuable form of recognition?

TW: You know what, the best recognition is seeing fans at every show singing our songs back to us. It’s not easy to get people to pay to come and see every show on top of buying your music, people really underestimate that! We’re so lucky to have an amazing fan base who support us every step of the way. It feels class to win awards but there’s no feeling like putting on a show and it selling out.

DM: Listen guys its been a pleasure to speak to you. What is the best way to discover more about The Waiters?

TW: We’re always on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and Youtube so give us a like, follow, subscribe etc and say hey! https://twitter.com/TheWaitersOffic https://www.facebook.com/thewaitersofficial https://www.instagram.com/waitergram https://www.youtube.com/thewaitersofficial

ubeat awards 2015 //Olivia Devine DM: We meet again Olivia! We last saw you when you played a beautiful set in a few weeks back with Afnan Prince. How has been life treating you since then?

Olivia: Hello! Ah Yes, I’m glad you enjoyed it!

Definitely one of my favourite gigs, the venue and sound were both amazing, was a really great night!

Life has been treating me well actually, keeping very busy. Constant writing, rehearsing and gigging. I’m not complaining though!

DM: Are you happy with how 2015 has gone for you?

O: Over the moon. It’s one of those things, while you’re actually doing it you don’t realise how much you’ve done and how far you’ve come, but if someone had told my 14 year old self all the cool things I’m getting up to now i wouldn’t believe them.

DM: Would you of liked to of done anything differently or are you saving it for next year?

O: I think about this a lot actually, and I sometimes wish I gigged less. With a lot of gigging there’s nights where no one is really

listening or the sound isn’t great and they can be really disheartening. There’s also the worry of too much exposure. I literally must have played at every single pub, bar, cafe in the area, and probably more than once! Still though, I don’t actually think I would have done it differently.

I’m so much more confident with my performing now, and can laugh it off or improvise when something goes wrong. So all those crap gigs were really a blessing in disguise haha!

DM: You write and create your own music which gets you the Darkus vote of approval straight away. When it comes to song writing where does the magic and inspiration lie?

O: It all depends. It’ll usually start with the music, then I’ll start humming melodies over the top. Lyrics most always come last. The music is definitely hardest part for me, so I love writing to track which I’m doing a lot of at the minute.

Once the music is there the melody will just pour out straight away!

When it comes to inspiration, i mainly write from real experience, especially when I’m writing the song for myself. If I’m writing to track, that could

possibly be given to another artist the music will probably push me into a certain subject matter, but there’ll always be a hint of my own experience in it somewhere. It’s always love though, and mainly unrequited. But as i’m getting older I’m definitely beginning to branch out.

DM: There is no doubt of how supportive your friends and family are, so if I was to ask them what make’s Olivia Devine special, what do you think they would say?

O: I have no idea how to answer this so I’ve just sent a text to my dad. on the plus side this will be painfully honest! ‘Exceptionally witty, intelligent, messy, sleeps a lot, very insightful, loving’ Thanks Dad. DM: I love all your songs so it’s hard for me to decide which song is a favourite. Did you have any specific tracks you worked on which really felt important to you?

O: Thank you! The track I’m performing at the awards ‘What it is’ is definitely a strong contender for my favourite. I came up with the chorus melody and then just sat and wrote it in the bathroom for 20 minutes and it was done. I really fell in love with the track when we started rehearsing how it would sound in the studio. It was just bang on how it sounded in my head, so I’m really excited to share how it should be at the Ubeat awards! However I would have to say ‘Devoted’ is my all time favourite song of mine.

That was also one I wrote really quick, I actually can’t even remember writing it. That for me is always a good sign though. It’s one of those that I never ever get tired of playing. I think I was a little bit sad when I wrote that, and I said everything I needed and wanted to say in the song so it felt amazing to get something good out of a not so good situation.

DM: How easy do you find it for an up and coming female singer song writer to get noticed in the north east music scene?

O: Hard to say really. Looking back I did put a lot of effort to get the better shows and more recognition, but I still loved pretty much every second of it, so it didn’t feel hard or easy! Just felt like I was doing what i loved to do.

DM: At the recent UBeat Awards you were declared as the winner for best solo female.

Having had your name read out what were the

initial thoughts going through your mind?

O: It was such a surreal moment! I know it sounds cliché, but I honestly didn’t expect to win at all. So I was totally unprepared! It felt amazing though, I’m so grateful to be recognised in the north east like that. And it definitely feels good to be an award winning artist haha!

DM: You recently went to the USA and also off to a number of visits to London. Can you tell us a little bit more about those?

O: Yeah i did! The USA was a family visit, so nothing greatly interesting music wise there, although its always good to get some down time and relax a little haha! My most recent visit London was for a meeting with a publisher, but usually go down for a writing session or to record some ideas i already have. I recently did a session with producers Future Cut, which was amazing. They’ve worked with artists like Lily Allen, Olly Murs and Shakira. So that was pretty cool.

DM: What does a typical day look like for you?

O: As my dad said, I like to sleep a lot. I’m quite nocturnal so half of my day has already been wasted by the time I get up! Once I’m up I’m usually straight down to the kitchen. I’m really obsessed with food so I’m always cooking something up. After that I’ll do whatever I have planned for the day! Usually gigging or writing but i usually find I’m most inspired and fired up late at night, so i like to do a lot of my writing and recording around then.

DM: What have you got in mind to take things to the next level in 2016?

O: Well, in the past few months I’ve been working with a producer called Phil Davids on my own material, and I’ve honestly never been happier with how the songs have been sounding. It’s amazing because everyone who’s seen me play before or heard my music will be familiar with the songs, but they won’t have heard them like this before! It all sounds totally brand new. We’re set to record a couple in January and hopefully will be able to put them out there at the end of next year. I’m just so excited for everyone to hear how I always wanted my music to sound. As well as that I really want to further develop a career in writing. I love performing so much, but song

writing was definitely my first love. So it’s always been a dream for me to hear a song I’ve written to be sang by a successful artist.

I’ve been writing over some awesome tracks recently so I’m hoping next year will be the year I achieve all these dreams!

DM: Can you remember the first time you picked up the guitar or what song inspired you want to pursue music yourself?

O: Yeah I do. Would be about 11 years ago now! I remember a couple weeks before Christmas I was hunting around the house to see if I could find any presents, as you do when you’re 7. I remember looking under my parents bed and seeing a stand for a guitar and I was so unbelievably excited. So it would have been that Christmas the first time picked up the guitar.

Believe it or not when I was that age my musical idols were of the likes of the Sex Pistols, the Undertones, ACDC and the Clash. So I was dying to learn an instrument so I could play all of their songs. I wrote my first song at that age as well called ‘Safety Pins don’t always clip on’.

I cringe now but the lyrics were actually quite clever ‘So tell me baby do I give you pins and needles I’m not talking sh*t I’m just talking riddles.’

But I actually started taking song writing and

music seriously at around the age of 15. At that time I was listening to a lot of Marvin Gaye, Jeff Buckley, the Beach Boys, Michael Jackson and Fleetwood Mac. All the greats basically. As well as all the Pop/RnB on the radio that me and my friends were into. I was obsessed with listening to music, so it just came naturally. I would strum some chords and make a catchy melody over the top, then after a few songs I thought I could actually become good at this, and that was it!

DM: Why is now an exciting time for new fans to invest their time in Olivia Devine?

O: Thank you very much… I think now is an exciting time because as i said before, the music I’m working on at the minute is sounding exactly how I wanted. It’s just something a bit different and I really think it’s something people would love to listen to and enjoy. I’m hoping next year will be an exciting year for music so I’d definitely stay tuned for all of that!

Questions By: Thushara S Chandrasiri Answers By: The Waiters and Olivia Devine Photos By: Chris Ord Make Up By: Victoria Heron Hair Stylist: Max Parker

//Exclusive:

Creative Instincts & Kayla Lou When it comes to any project, there is nothing more important than the connection the people you work with.

Darkus took the opportunity therefore to speak to photographer Glenn Wallace and model Kayla Lou to find out what the two love about working with each other, and the key to creating inspirational results.

Darkus Magazine: Tell us a little about yourself Glenn: I started photography about three years ago now, after finishing my degree in videography at Manchester University. I intended on becoming a videographer and editor, until a friend convinced me to take some pictures of her daughter who had aspirations of becoming a model. The pictures went down well and something about it just felt right. So I worked hard on developing my skills and trying to collaborate with others, whilst trying to find my own individual style. I also work as a night manager at hotel/ golf course in the middle of nowhere, because I’m incredibly intimidating…for someone who apparently looks like a cross between H from steps and Russell Howard.

Kayla: I am 24, currently living in Somerset - a beautiful place if you have never been here. I am also a mum too, it’s exciting stuff. Currently I work in the crazy world of MLM, if you know you know, you’re a clever person & will do well.

Life is about finding yourself and that is what I have done. I literally winged it through until I found my purpose which everyone does don’t they? Haha!

My other passions include travel and experiencing different cultures. I’m not a massive party girl although I do love a good festival and a night out but would give traveling over it any day! Next stop for me is ideally Thailand to cuddle a cute baby tiger and see some stunning views.

DM: What was it like to work on this photoshoot together?

Kayla: It was fantastic, myself and Glenn always have so much fun and laughter. We are both as crazy as one another. We actually went to this beautiful Bed and Breakfast, with the intention of attending a fashion show that evening in Cardiff.

However, after a trip to Asda and a couple of drinks later we decided to skip the fashion show and stay up till 2am shooting these pictures. What can I say, we both love what we do.

Glenn: Just like every shoot with Kayla it’s filled with laughter, random moments and something crazy going on. I think the people walking past the window probably had the most fun during this

shoot. I think by the end of it, every school kid and teenage lad in town was outside watching.

DM: As both photographer and model, what do you think this set says about you both collectively and individually?

Glenn: I think it says that we can produce something seductive, sensual and sexy with nothing more than a window and a reflector.

Sometimes you don’t have to over complicate things and it proves the theory that being comfortable with one another shows in the work you produce.

DM: I guess a question for both of you, how easy is it to have confidence in the work you create?

Kayla: No hesitation with this question. I feel so comfortable with Glenn that when we shoot we always produce something to its full potential every time. We always try to plan our shoots, but when it comes to the day we often end up shooting something unexpected and loving the results.

Glenn always manages to make me look and feel

so sexy and brings out the best in me.

Glenn: I’m my biggest critic and people are often telling me to not be so hard on myself.

I always strive for perfection and I don’t think that will ever change as I constantly want to improve. However, when you work with someone as talented and beautiful as Kayla it’s easy to know you are going to produce something amazing. I like to think I have a way of showcasing just how beautiful the people are that I work with, in the most natural way possible.

DM: For each of you what did 2015 represent, and what will 2016 bring?

Glenn: 2015 was a year where I felt like my photography really took a step forward and people were starting to notice my work and compliment me on my individual style. It was a year where I got my first paid front cover and became a contributor for Inked Girls magazine. This means a lot to me, because it was the first tattooed magazine I purchased when I started out in photography and now I see myself and my work in the magazine. Now I get to end my year on a major high by being published in Darkus Magazine, with one of the nicest people I’ve ever worked with. Kayla is someone I consider to be a true friend, who is incredibly beautiful both inside and out. I look forward to working with her for years to come.

2016 will hopefully bring

more proud moments and the opportunity to meet some more incredible individuals. I hope to be involved with Darkus Magazine again as I love what’s being produced and it’s a magazine that is only going to grow and grow in stature.

Ever since I saw them feature the beautiful Siobhan Walker I knew I wanted to be involved.

It will also be the year where I finally launch my website, so watch this space.

Kayla: 2015 was spent trying out a number of different things and trying to find myself.

I feel like I’m in a place now where I know exactly what I want and more importantly I know how to get it. It’s been great to have been published again with Glenn. It’s even more special that this time it’s with Darkus Magazine, which I’ve admired for a long time.

2016 I plan on taking things to a whole new level so get ready because you will be seeing a whole lot more of me in 2016.

Check out the links to find out more about Glenn and Kayla.

Two truly gifted and talented people who do nothing but continue to inspire!

Facebook: Kayla Lou Model Twitter @kaylalou _x Instagram @miss.kaylalouise. official Glenn Wallace: www.creativeinstincts.uk Facebook: Creative Instincts Photography Instagram: @Creative_Instincts

//ong-oaj pairam It’s a beautiful late summer day and I’m in front of a big window on the third floor of a top London hotel. Out of that window sprawls the very busy Regent Street, and views down across Piccadilly and the happy tourists getting their holiday snaps. But they get no more than a glance from me because I’m here to see what’s going on in the Salon.

The lights dim, the music rises, the catwalk is surrounded by darkness, cameras burst into clicks and flashes, in five short minutes the room will slide back into quiet, the audience stunned by the brilliance of Ong-Oaj Pairam.

With the latest collection he has delivered a manifesto for what we will be wearing during the spring and summer of 2016. There are beautiful deep and rich natural tones brought to life, colours from the world around us mixed with hints of the florals and leaves of the seasons. Textured to recreate the feel of the inspiration evoking summer meadows. Alongside this are bold pops of fuchsia, yellow and blue adding vibrant hues to the looks.

Ong-Oaj Pairam is a master of gown as a draped cloud, the pieces glide and hover. He knows that spring and summer mean light and floating and that is what he delivers. However they are far from shapeless and without form, the chic lines and structure of the couture remain.

It feels like the most elegant of garden parties, these are looks for sharing canapes on a warm afternoon sipping champagne rather than chomping burgers at a barbeque.

But still the looks include not just the gowns for a reception but more day to day practicality emerges I the shirts,

skirts, dresses, shorts and playsuits that are dotted through the collection.

There is a look for every day, including a stunning trench coat for those April showers. We live in the UK there will be showers.

The Ong-Oaj Pairam woman is one that is empowered, knows her look, and likes statements of fun and creativity. From the collection you can see the threads coming together in the theme, but also in the show stopping print co-ords. It’s very simple, more of this please, this is the standard we want to see as the winter clears away, we all want to be part of the #Ongtourage.

By Ross Pollard Photos By Simon Armstrong

//The Snow Queen

As it is now winter, films such as Frozen and the live action Alice in Wonderland are currently seasonal favourites, Alice in Wonderland in particular being a favourite for the photography crowd. During this photoshoot, I wanted to deviate away from the cliches surrounding this theme, but keep the statement pieces. I started the project based upon my initiative, yet I had a lot of time to think about what I would be doing, taking inspiration from The Wonderland Book, and adding my own twist. One of the poses, along with the composition, in particular is quite art-nouveau, which is something I was definitely aiming for.

However, after completing this shoot, it got me thinking about the reoccuring themes when it comes to talking about and shooting portrayals of the Snow Queen, and all the forms she takes in books and film. I will be concentrating on four portrayals in particular.

Elsa - Disney’s Frozen.

This Snow Queen is a favourite at the moment, she is all over the place. Her face adorns a lot of merchandise and is definitely one of the most popular Disney characters.

She is blonde, has blue eyes, and at first, acts cold towards people. She can manipulate snow, frost and ice but cannot control these strong powers when getting over-emotional as we see in the film, which is why she wears gloves, to protect and hide away her powers.

She unintentionally curses the kingdom which she rules over, Arendelle, with a winter.

White Witch - The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe.

Jadis is the main antagonist of the first of the Chronicles of Narnia. She rules over Narnia as a tyrant, and, like Elsa, casts an endless winter over Narnia. She has an army which she can command, made up of different types of creature. Her other powers include her superhuman strength, she can break iron with her bare hands, and she is seven feet tall. Again, she has fair colourings. However, she is evil, in contrast to Elsa.

Ingrid - ABC’s Once Upon a Time.

Once Upon a Time is a very popular television series at the moment. It has an ever-growing fanbase and it involves a mixture of characters from many different stories and folklore. Ingrid is the aunt of Elsa and Anna, and shares many traits with Elsa, including having little control over her powers and locking herself away as a result.

For most of the episodes that she is in, she is an antagonist, however once we learn more of her storyline, we understand the reasons she has for her actions. Once again, she has the similar fair hair, eyes and skin mentioned in the other characters beforehand.

Hans Christian Andersen’s The Snow Queen This particular portrayal of the Snow Queen is arguably the one source that all the aforementioned characters’ creators took inspiration from. This is a Danish story, and the Snow Queen in this story has almost all of the traits shared by the other characters. This is the

one that connects them all together.

As a result, I kept the fair skin and blue eyes shared by all the characters, and made the setting a snowy winter woodland. I gave her shimmery skin, a white and silver dress, and put diamantes in her plaited hair, which I thought would be a good hairstyle because of Elsa. As most of these Snow Queens are antagonists, I asked her to look at me with a piercing gaze.

The elf ears were an idea I had to make her appear more than human, like an otherwordly being.

In conclusion, I hope my journey through the four characters, combined with my entire creative process from start to finish which helped me in learning more about these characters, inspires you, the reader, and perhaps other photographers to do the same.

Photography and article: Amy Hanna Model and MUA: Kelsey Robertshaw

//sports philosophy Can a T-Shirt save the world went the old saying.

Well perhaps the question should be can a sportswear label save the world because that’s what London based Sports Philosophy intend to do.

As part of the new wave of stylish yet functional brands that have sprung up they stand out as they have a plan to fight child labour. However it’s by having great products that work they intend to do it, focused on people who “want to transition from home to gym”. “It was about the product but if it did good it helped” offers Matthias . . . “the company is committed to help the communities it works in”.

For a company in the garment industry Matthias and Stella aren’t the usual fashionistas you’d expect to be in charge of a style conscious activewear label. Matthias is a quietly spoken German from the banking sector and Stella is a former barrister and international level Malaysian tennis and taekwondo athlete, (though Mick Jagger studied at the LSE as well so there is rock star pedigree in her background), with a gentle manner and a big smile. Though when they talk of what they are doing and the task they have set themselves they both bring forward a steel

determination and focus.

This is none more evident than when Stella says while discussing child labour in factories, “it can’t wait for 40 years, the problem is happening now. We have to find ways to get children out of factories and not just the ones we will work with or it won’t end”.

They intend to do this by putting at least 10% of all profit into their charitable aims “rather than saying we will donate X amount, we want a model that allows affordability and sustainability”. It is this thinking that will allow them to be able to have manoeuvrability and agility as a start up to grow into a long term successful brand and therefore deliver a program of change.

When pushed on why 10% rather than X amount Matthias makes the very good point that this makes the business sustainable and allows them to invest in new infrastructure and requirements as they move forward. They will be able to grow “it was our philosophy to impart for profit rationale into charity”.

He and Stella are also keen to impress that 10% is a minimum commitment. What’s also interesting is how that 10% will be spent. They want to work with experts on eradicating child labour, rather

than dictating how the money will be used, they want to listen to and support those on the ground where these issues are at their most pressing. They want people to come to them with a plan and say help us do this thing, because we can achieve that objective. They aren’t just looking to get children out of factories, “why are they there in the first place, it’s about lasting solutions”.

The range is great, its chic, understated and includes clever ideas like making the lightening patterns reflective for night time runners, but why sportswear?

Matthias smiles and says it was Stella who came up with the idea while they were looking at it. Stella who is the creative director jumps in to explain more, “It was jumpers and T-Shirts, and I said is it going to be a charity or a sustainable business.”

There lies why they will be successful and why that non-fashion background is important, they can see it in commercial terms as well. They know how to succeed in business, you have to have a great product. Matthias is confident in his belief that it has helped them “I think there’s a benefit about entering

a business fresh, we just do it”. They both acknowledge it’s been a steep learning curve though. Make no mistake reading that, Stella as creative director has created the collection to be as wearable as it is functional, yet also stylish and has big plans to extend the range. Just that week they had been doing a new shoot with the real life fitness bloggers they use instead of models. She believes that more and more there is an overlap between fashion and sportswear.

So that’s their Sports Philosophy, one I would personally express as look good, feel good, do good, if they want to borrow a slogan, but Matthias sums it up beautifully with “I don’t see why a company making a profit shouldn’t give up 10% of its profit”.

I’m left feeling that even if a T-Shirt can’t change the world, Sports Philosophy may just shake it up a bit and change quite a few lives along the way.

Article By Ross Pollard Photos By Gary Morrisoe

//The Hair Maid The Dream Team are the heart and soul of Darkus Magazine, and make me so proud to be leading my team as their Editor. I always like to ensure anyone who is part of the Darkus family is praised for their hard work, so in this issue it was such a pleasure to speak to our very own Steph O’Neill about her passion for creativity and as I described her, the architect of hair design.

Thushara: Tell us a little bit about how you began your dream of becoming a hairstylist?

Steph: Well it started a very long time ago. My grandmother was a hairdresser so I have always been around salons, hairstyles and different techniques that my grandmas use to teach me. In her heyday she was influenced by the 60s and 70s – so it was all about the beehives and the backcomb and things like that, so I guess that’s where I get my big hair vibe from.

T: Was it a case that it was only hair that applied to you, or were you curious to try other areas too?

S: In the very beginning when I first started my apprenticeship I was advised to go and try a make up course so I had a go at it for 3 months but I just didn’t gel with it and it helped me to realised that make up artist was something that I particularly wanted to be. For me instead it was all about creativity and using different skills and techniques . The research into hairstyles over the years to modern day was a lot more intriguing was a lot more fascinating to me than the skin and the face haha.

T: What have been some of the moments over the past 12-18 months that you will always cherish?

S: Magical moments would have probably been leaving the salon environment and going out on my own.

T: How courageous did you feel when you made that choice?

S: Yes, because working in a salon had been

something I had done for the past 15 years, and never thought I would be able to go out on my own and have people believe in me and my style of work because its not exactly conventional. Its more out going and different especially with colour so a lot of my clients are a little bit more adventurous – whether they were before they met me or after haha, but it was a highlight, a scary highlight at the same time.

T: What about happy highlights?

S: It obviously has to be chosen to do work with the dream team for the front cover of Darkus. Never in my life did I think I would be doing a project such as that which was specifically about my work. It was so exciting and fun because I was given the opportunity to leave that mind frame of doing some thing I do on a daily basis and instead given the chance to do so much more.

T: Just to clarify not only did you work on this front cover, but our last cover featuring up and coming north east designer, Wreckreation!

S: Yes! Sally was so great to work with, she knew the exact theme she wanted and the particular looks she wanted to portray when the models were showcasing her work, but also did give me a bit of room to put my own spin on things, but still following the same concept.

T: What gives you that extra edge is your ability to blow minds. Where does the route of your creativity lie?

Do you have to think about it? Or can small things trigger it off?

S: Everything triggers it off haha! It could be something from the colour of a leaf in autumn to the beautiful shapes that you sometimes get with architecture.

T: Do you think then its fair to call The Hair Maid, the architect of hair design then?

S: Haha definitely! I have never thought about it like that before, but yea there is a lot of structure in my hair styles, but the basics with hairdressing is that you need good foundations be it knowledge, education, techniques etc and just grow with experience.

T: Photography and modelling are important, but the role of a hair and make up artist is equally important right?

S: Definitely! We are the key people that create for the photography, as its our briefs and mood boards which help shape the direction of a shoot.

T: Given the time and resources you use, as hell knows products are not cheap, how do you differentiate between deciding to choose between a paid shoot or one with a Time For Print (TFP) policy?

S: For TFP it has to be something which excites me. I need something that if it an idea I have never tried before is going to build my portfolio so there the kind I tend to agree to. In all honesty though I now only do a few a month compared to previous years where I was doing quite a lot, but now its good in a way that to be at a point where I become a little bit more selective.

T: Is it easy to say no?

S: No! it is very hard. Even though people mean well, at the end of the day like everyone else I have bills to pay, a family, a home etc, so unfortunately as The Hair Maid has taken off client wise, I have had to reduce the amount of TFP projects I agree to.

T: Fair enough if people offer you a discount or something that is nice , but in reality something like a hat may look good on your head, but it wont make the bills go away right?

S: Exactly‌but at least I will look fabulous haha!

T: As one of the latest members to join our dream team, we asked you to come up

with a project which best portrays who you are. From the images we see in this article therefore what do you think it teaches people?

S: The images with the snake particularly has been on my mind since June. We were on holiday and we came across a Jamaican python which my little ones adored , so with that image inside my mind it was kind of like creativity outside the box. The smoothness and sleekness of the paper hair with the yellow coming over the bun was just to give kind of a different texture to the hair. That’s what I love doing the most, creating different textures within the hair that can transform a look.

T: This shoot did require a lot more of input from you as in essence this was about showcasing your work. In general however how easy is it for you to bring across your own ideas in other things you have been involved with?

S: I think once I have worked with someone I can kind of predict how much of an input or not I can provide. I am not the kind of person to say “oh yea I will do that”, instead I am more like “I will do that but also a bit of that too”, and always add that little bit extra to it.

T: The tools of any great creative person are the heart of the end result. Thinking about that then, what is your favourite bit of kit?

S: Oooo! One has to be my Patrick Cameron back combing brush, who I trained with in 2014, so yea that and I would probably say my hairspray!

Nothing can ever go wrong when you have those two, especially when it comes to studio work. It comes to something when you can tell different brands of hairspray by taste though haha!

T: How easy is it for you to take risks and have confidence in your work as a hairstylist?

S: It can be quite easy because if I don’t like something I can easily amend it, compared with make up where you have to take the whole face off and try again. I do like that high pressure situation where you have no brief and it is up to you to use your initiative and think on the spot! A lot of that though comes from self believe, which this time last year I don’t think I had. I always thought there were other people more younger, better and talented etc.

Also I think because I keep myself up to date with regular education at various courses and trade shows, it helps me to stay in the loop with the latest trends and different perspectives on how you can do hair. Being at those trade shows helped me to realise when I was low on

self belief that there are other people with similar worries. After speaking to a few of them you discovered that they all started out with simply a passion for what they were doing, they weren’t very experienced at what they did, but nevertheless they kept on believing and never gave up and that its that attitude that has carried them through. Knowing that, I will always apply it to myself and remain passionate about The Hair Maid.

T: What does a standard day look like to you?

S: Oh my god! There is no standard day! I wish there was, but I think with having a young family then I will have my private clients during the day.

On an evening (with plenty of advance…note to editor haha) I will have shoots . It varies a lot because you will have those moments where you get three days worth of shoots and then others when its just non stop clients.

T: Is there anything you wish to try that you haven’t yet?

S: I would love to try areas like film or tv , as I see that as being the next level for my work to go. As this path has taken me surprise though , I am being involved in exciting ideas thanks to working with Darkus.

T: Haha Bonus points for you Steph O’ Neill!

S: Haha I would also love to one day to have my own salon and staff that I could grow and encourage. Working on shoots have helped me to work in a team and not just on my own. The chemistry you get with fellow creative people, where all kinds of ideas are bouncing around is the best atmosphere ever. We all have our own role, but we have the same end goal so the onus is on each of us to step up to the plate and deliver thus creating something we can all be proud of!

T: When people invest their time with The Hair Maid, what can they expect?

S: A professional, friendly salon service but in the comfort of your own home.

T: 2014 was about the salon environment, 2015 was about branching out, but what will

2016 be? (Yes I know I didn’t include this in the original questions, so you can thank me later haha) S: The year of hard work. I can see a lot of projects coming my way in different settings, and of course there is the massive wedding season coming up…p.s don’t forget to let me know the date of yours and Cara’s wedding haha!

On a serious note though it’s a bit of entering the unknown but with adrenaline. As I did take this big step to do things on my own it gave me the ability as we discussed before to be more selective about my work, but also a bit assertive in myself too so that the passion and love for what I do is never taken away.

Questions By Thushara S. Chandrasiri Hair Stylist & Answers By Steph O’Neill Photography By Chris Ord Models: Olivia Fryer, Ynnah Valdez, Katie Knowles and Charlotte Hayes MUAs: Sophie Harmann and Rachel White

//Vintage Inspiration With Chris Ord

Hanging wallpaper, painting furniture, fitting lights, and persuading the Wife to let you use her Wedding dress; Some shoots do take a little more effort to bring together than others. Once the team and I had decided on a theme several weeks before the shoot, I had started building the set and putting it together several times before taking it apart again for other shoots in the same space. I don’t really remember where the initial idea for this set up came from, but after several trips to Asda and TK Maxx for clothing and jewellery, it started to take shape. I was very lucky in the way that my parents allowed me to use one of their antique chairs which fitted perfectly into the scene.

So after 6 hours of putting the set together, test shooting it and moving things around, we then started on hair and makeup. The look we had talked about was a classical Vintage look- Rachel (Make Up Artist) absolutely nailed this 100%, as she always does. Steph (hair stylist) went to work on Lucy’s (model) dark ginger hair and created something brilliant from the brief we had discussed leading up to the shoot. The images themselves were only lit through the window light to the right of the camera which helped give this set that authentic attic feel. The shoot only lasted around 30 minutes in total as Lucy produced some beautifully elegant poses that worked perfectly for this style..

Photographer - Chris Ord Model - Lucy Steanson Hair - Steph O’Neill Makeup - Rachel White

//Boozy Cheesecake

This non-bake cheesecake is very simple to make. In this recipe, I have used Loch Fyne whiskey liqueur but it can be replaced by any favourite tipple, and if you will be entertaining any children you could add a few tablespoons of lemon curd to the mixture instead of the tipple, or it can be left plain and topped with strawberries or other fruits - or be creative and add what you fancy.

Ingredients 200g digestive biscuits 4oz melted butter 600ml double cream 160g soft cheese 4oz icing sugar Flake bar (for the topping) Shot of whiskey.

In a food processor, crumble the biscuits into

a fine crumb consistency. Melt the butter in the microwave or in a pan and pour it into the biscuit crumbs. Pulse it a few times until it’s mixed together. Pour the mixture out and pat it down into an 8 inch cake tin. Put it into the fridge to set.

Mix together the cream cheese, icing sugar and double cream, whisk this with an electric whisk until you get soft peaks. Add a shot glass of whiskey and fold it in. Take the biscuit base out of the fridge and top it with the mixture. Smooth it out evenly with a spatula. Break up the flake whilst it is still in its packet with a rolling pin by lightly bashing it, and sprinkle this on top. Pop the cheesecake into the fridge and chill for at least an hour.

This can be made the day before and it will keep for two days in the fridge.

By Jane Robertshaw Photos by Amy Hanna

//DR. MARTENS: STORY OF AN ICON The Dr. Martens story directly mirrors many of the twists and turns of youth culture. The boot started life as a work-wear item, but was quickly adopted by a variety of youth subcultures and style tribes over the ensuing decades. The brand also found itself championed by fashion designers, protest culture, musicians, free-thinkers and a myriad of independent, rebellious characters.

Half a century after the first pair of boots rolled off the production line, the world of social media and networks introduced the Age of the Individual. Rather than dilute DM’s cultural relevance, the global village has instead introduced a new, diverse generation of digitised consumers to the brand, each possessed of an individual style but linked by a united spirit.

THE BOOK: In Dr. Martens: A History of Rebellious Self Expression, best-selling author Martin Roach has written an exhaustive chronicle

of one of Britain’s most enduring, diverse and influential brands. The narrative is told through in-depth research, dozens of interviews with high profile musicians, subcultural individuals and creative personalities.

This meticulous and comprehensive brand history is complemented by over 220 photographs (many previously unpublished), as well as rare memorabilia. This book is the definitive work on one of modern culture’s most unique, complex and authentic brands.

There will always be Dr. Martens as long as rebellious self-expression continues to exist.

This book is that remarkable story.

Available at Dr. Martens Newcastle, 153 Grainger Street, NE1 5AE. For more details on Dr. Martens: WWW. DRMARTENS.COM

//exhale One of the things I love about living in Newcastle is that there is such a thriving nightlife to cater for all people. With most of my time being taken up by live music, its quite rare for me to just relax and have a good drink, dance and laugh in the company of good friends.

However all that changed recently when I was invited by Johnny Dodd and his team to attend one of the exceptional, EXHALE nights over at World Headquarters. A night which begins at 11pm and goes onto 4am this is one events I have been too, and is such a unique and quirky alternative to the other club nights we have here in the city.

Top DJs from our region are on hand, offering a mixture of House, Trance, Garage & Ibiza Anthems which is the ideal opportunity to reminisce about those classic tunes many of us grew up listening to back in our student days, for me especially!

One of the important questions before you go to any night out is what are the drinks prices

going to be like, and you know what you will be extremely pleased at how affordable it is for your favourite tipple – alcoholic or otherwise.

Having attended a couple of times now, its good to see how popular and busy the EXHALE nights have become, with the majority of the time tickets being sold out at rapid speeds.

With EXHALE not only is it a chance to hang out with your friends, but the atmosphere is so vibrant and positive that no doubt you will be entranced by the vibe which you don’t always get if you went to some of the other events that take place if you went somewhere else in the city.

2016 is going to be even more special for the EXHALE team as they will be celebrating their 3rd anniversary, which knowing how dedicated Johnny and his team are, will see EXHALE taken to a whole new level.

By Thushara Chandrasiri

//The New Fenwick Food Hall A huge makeover and multi million pound overhaul of Fenwick Food Hall in Newcastle upon Tyne has finally been unveiled to the public and man, is it good. I was invited along to the launch night and it didn’t disappoint.

The family run Fenwick department store on Northumberland Street has long been a mecca for shoppers, offering something for everyone and recently expanding into stocking more niche, desirable products such as vintage Chanel handbags and Fifty Pound Gin. Plans for the new and improved Food hall have been well publicised but with a launch date under wraps, and cleverly cordoned off sections, the revamp was very much a secret operation and one which was overdue.

Award winning interior design consultancy CADA design have overseen the transformation of the Food Hall and created a much lighter, brighter feel. The world famous design company have previously worked with Harrods, Fortnum & Mason and Charbonnel et Walkerto name a few so there’s no doubting

that our flagship department store has been in good hands.

With a brand new Wine Room featuring floor to ceiling bespoke shelving with sliding ladders and a chiller where customers can purchase wine by the glass, this new area really is something to behold. With attentive and knowledgeable staff, Fenwick have gone the extra mile to make sure that whatever it is you’re looking for, you’ll absolutely find it here.

There are three new dining areas offering different experiences for guests. Mediterranean restaurant Fuego serves hand stretched pizza and has a casual bar area for shoppers who just want to rest their feet in luxury surroundings with a glass of something cheeky. Pan Asian restaurant Ko Sai is billed as a noodle bar but on closer inspection it’s way more than that.

It’s a deceptively spacious dining area with 43 seats for guests hungry for something a little bit different than the city’s usual offerings. Finally Mason + Rye, a patisserie with a dine in option and a cake display to die for, it’s worth visiting the Food Hall for this alone.

Other new additions to the Food Hall include The Saltwater Fish Company which brings with it an Oyster Happy Hour where fresh oysters are only one pound per shuck. With more of a focus on local suppliers and locally sourced foods, Fenwick will house produce from North Eastern favourite Doddington Dairy, The Honey Store in Ponteland (to sit alongside the in-house range of honey which Fenwick itself produces in store) and Durham Green Lane who are known locally for their herb preserves and jellies.

The Food Hall itself boasts a fresh new look which brings it right up to date with the larger department stores found in London. With high ceilings and clever use of light, the Food Hall feels twice the size that it previously was and with intuitive zoning, shoppers are guided

fluidly around each area. There’s a whole area dedicated to artisan chocolate with counters displaying freshly made truffles and pre-packaged chocolates which make for the perfect gift.

Heaton’s famous Naked Deli have set up shop in Fenwicks offering healthy, gluten free lunch options, smoothies and salads and the genius positioning right next to the door means city workers can nip in and out with a healthy lunch option - something that has been thin on the ground in Newcastle, until now. Directly opposite Naked Deli is Ouseburn Coffee Company, set up like a bar, it’s a great pitstop for shoppers and has a handy seating area where you can ditch the bags and mull over your purchases with local coffee.

By opening itself up to a whole new audience, Fenwick has assured its place at the top of the food chain (pun intended) when it comes to gastronomic warfare.

It would be easy to wax lyrical about the new Fenwick Food Hall, it’s been a long time coming and has been a certain success, but the best way to find out is to go there for yourself and drink it all in. My parting advice? Take comfortable shoes, you’ll be in there a while....

Fenwick can be found at 39 Northumberland Street, Newcastle Upon Tyne, NE99 1AR

By Pixie Tenenbaum

//film and comic con Newcastle

For years I’ve been an avid fan of comic books, movies and TV shows and so spent a lot of time thinking wistfully about conventions for like minded people like myself to enjoy these things all in one place. Film and Comic Con Newcastle is something I’ve heard about for the past few years from friends, all enthusiastically telling me about their experience and the great things that they’d seen. I’ll admit I was jealous, I’d never had the chance to see something like this before so seeing it this year was an exciting venture for me.

I went to FCC Newcastle with high hopes and I wasn’t disappointed, from the outset the staff were very helpful and friendly and assisted me with any questions I had, everything was very organise, inside the main hall was a great number of stalls with a range of fandom related memorabilia, clothing, comic books and artwork, it took a lot of willpower to stop myself from buying too much but when there’s so much cool stuff around it’s hard to contain myself.

The seated area of the hall was partitioned for the guest panels which were informative and enjoyable and I could barely get past the line of people waiting for autographs from the many guests ranging from shows and movies such as Doctor Who, Game of Thrones and Star Wars.

Personally I had a great experience and enjoyed seeing people dressed as their favourite characters like Captain America, Darth Vader and his many Storm Troopers, a very convincing Captain Jack Sparrow and even a couple of Castiel’s for you fellow Supernatural fans. For any fandom lover such as myself I would suggest this event with a lot of positivity, and with two conventions in Newcastle a year there isn’t enough time to be sad that it’s over before it rolls around again.

Article and photos by Kate McConrey

//The Division Tom Clancy’s: The Division is wonderful.

Recently I had the pleasure of playing the betas with a few friends and now I’m here to give you my thoughts. While the game was never going to look as good as its previous E3 presentations, (something we all already knew) it still looks outstandingly beautiful. Ubisoft and Massive have created a living, breathing, battered and bruised world where stalking carefully down a snow covered street feels genuinely engaging. The beta opened with our protagonist walking in a helicopter bound for the famous New York. We’re given very little in terms of story or background information, however this did allow us to dive straight into playing without faffing about with needing to know if the pilots’ second aunty twice removed on his mothers side was feeling well last Tuesday.

After setting down in a makeshift military camp, given the name Camp Hudson by the garrisoned troops, we made our way through a decontamination tunnel and into the games first “Hub-Area”. From here

we stood in awe, staring at all the new recruits just like us, running about, getting to grips with the controls and concepts.

We decided not to hang around too long in Camp Hudson and proceeded slowly through another decomtamination tunnel.

This tunnel opened onto the sprawling of New York where we were let off of our leashes and left to roam the devastated streets of the city in our own time. We spent several hours exploring the streets of Manhattan, gradually pushing the game in various ways, to see how it would react.

We then discovered The Dark Zone. A horrifyingly large wall littered with burning cars, bodies face down in the snow, and a small checkpoint doorway lines what is arguably The Divison’s most novel and niche aspect. A player vs player environment that made for the most intense experience all weekend. The general premise of The Dark Zone is that loot must be extracted via helicopter, however others players can steal your loot and extract it for themselves.

However not everyone in The Dark Zone is out for blood (and your hard earned loot), some are just trying to help you out, but due to past experiences you may no longer trust other players. It plays on human paranoia, where we don’t know another’s intentions.

Of course you could always go and steal loot from other players yourself, however doing so marks you as a “Rogue” agent, placing a bounty upon your head. From there, other players can hunt you down for

in-game currency. When it boils down to it, The Divison is an excellent online shooter with novel ideas that left me thirsty for more.

Every second I spent in Ubisoft’s masterfully crafted world made me want to experience more and more of the world and concepts.

The Division launches on all platforms on the 8th March worldwide, I hope to see you in The Dark Zone and Manhattan, Agents!

Article and screenshot by Ben James Wood

next time...

Jess Glynne / Circa Waves Mystery Jets / Band of Skulls We Are Scientists / Ghostpoet Benjamin Francis Leftwich / Blood Red Shoes Los Campesinos! / The Duke Spirit / Rat Boy

B l o s s o m s / Clean Cut Kid / Declan McKenna Formation / I n h e a v e n / Izzy Bizu / Loyle Carner M a b e l / Mi a mi g o / Pumarosa / Sa m m He ns ha w Sundara Karma / The Sherlocks / Vitamin / White Anteros / Asylums / Autobahn / Babeheaven / Barns Courtney / Beach Baby Beaty Heart / Blaenavon / Cameron AG / Cape Cub / Carnabells / Caro Catholic Action / Cattle & Cane / Chiara Hunter / Dear Friends Estrons / FEWS / Fighting Caravans / Flawes / Fletcher Jackson Fore ver Cult / Fronteers / George Cosby / George Taylor Georgie / Hannah Lou Clark / Haus / Hidden Charms / Holy Esque Isaac Gracie / James TW / John Joseph Brill / Joseph J. Jones / Kagoule Kleine Schweine / Kloe / Meilyr Jones / Milk Teeth / Mullally Natalie McCool / Raphaella / Rhys Lewis / Seramic / Slutface Strange Bones / The Indigo Project / The Jacques / Tiggs Da Author Trash / Tusk / Viola Beach / Where Fires Are / Willie J Healey Zuzu >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> PLUS MORE TO BE ANNOUNCED

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29/01/2016 14:21