Quench - Issue 111

FEATURES - FILM - FASHION TRAVEL - ARTS MUSIC - FOOD & DRINK BOOKS - PHOTOS - LGBT+

fresher

ISSUE 111

CONTENTS Welcome Do or Die Features Food & Drink Books Fashion Travel Photos LGBT+ Arts Music Film

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WELCOME TO CARDIFF Now that you’ve waved your weepy Mother and undoubtedly elated Father off into the sunset, allow me to offer you a huge, warm and uncomfortably sexual welcome to Cardiff University! Moreover, allow me to welcome you to this year’s first issue of Cardiff ’s student magazine, Quench.

Freshers Fortnight is one fraught with excitement, peril, misguided sexual encounters and inevitable danger. However, Quench is here to guide you through the next fourteen days (and, indeed, the next three years) with a gentle caressing hand.

What lies within this hallowed magazine are pages that bulge with news and articles from the world of Music, Film, Fashion, Arts, and more besides. We have also crammed this issue full of ideas and ways to keep you entertained in the downtime before lectures eventually begin (and thereafter). Almost every aspect of Cardiff living is taken care of. Check out the Food, Music, Arts and LGBT+ sections for inside information on places to eat, drink and dance that will satisfy even the most wicked and liquor-thirsty student.

If the thought of writing for Quench tickles your fancy, make sure you send yourself along to the Cardiff Student Media Recruitment Party that is taking place on 3 October 2011 at 7.00 pm in Solus (Cardiff Students' Union). There will be representatives from every section of Quench in attendance for you to bend their ear about getting involved in the magazine. We also have fortnightly meetings for contributors on Mondays at 5.30pm in the Aneurin Bevan room on the top floor of the Union.

For more information on this, please add yourself to our Facebook group. Quenchcontributors@ groups.facebook.com Gavin Jewkes (Editor)

quench@gairrhydd.com

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Do or Die:

The British Cheese Festival, 24th & 25th September, Cardiff Castle

What’s that smell in the air?

The distant whiff of cheese merged with the glimmer of hope. This can only mean it’s that time of year again. No, it’s not a pre-Lynx fresher arriving. But it is time to bravely man up about your hangover,

most immature rude mind (eg. the ‘fermented friends’ class). A few of our recommendations include the master class for ‘speed dating’ your cheese. While miss muffet ate her curds with whey, this session involves pimping out your cheese

tummy with a bizarre hangover cure. Its cheese o’clock as 'The British Cheese Festival' rolls once more into Cardiff. Forget Glastonbury or Green Man, this fest is ‘the focal point of the cheese lovers' calendar’.

I must confess when someone orders cheese for dessert my sweet-toothed face automatically screws up in confusion. However even looking on the website makes me smile a little. It has been 2 minutes and I’ve already learnt 2 things. 1) ‘Unlike wine or animals, the character of cheeses can be judged by a glance at their rind.’ 2) Someone should tell the website creator neither wine nor animals have rinds.

with drinks such as wheat beer or port.

Meanwhile the more serious cheese lover can visit ‘The Hall of Champions’. Brimming with champion cheeses and cheese makers you can tickle your taste buds or shake up those brain cells with a question and answer session.

After a class indulge in some shopping in one of the many markets, or sample a fresh cider or sundae as you watch the bands on the castle green, or try your luck at the ‘World Cheese Tossing Championship’. If you bring along a sense of humour you could take home the renowned ‘World Cheese Tosser’ trophy, perhaps the ultimate icebreaker when meeting new hallsfolk. If any third years are bored of standard freshers week schedules you could get a team together to compete in ‘Cheese Skittles’. Matching T-shirts optional.

Though perhaps not highest on your freshers to do list, if university is all about new experiences then I challenge you to do or die or at least try the British Cheese Festival this September.

Before the big day.

Buy your ticket in advance. Whilst paying £8.50 you get a £3.50 voucher to use on any of the master classes, and the event itself is in the gorgeous Cardiff Castle grounds.

On the big day.

The list of master classes will satisfy even the most experienced cheese fan, and the

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Do or Die

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Features

University: removing the rose tinted specs

It is time and it’s happening to you; university.

In an idealists world you will arrive fresh and

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Features

years:

for me.’ a lot of unreal and unhealthy pressure at univer-

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Camilla Flint

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Features

A refreshing approach dos and don'ts Don’t

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Do

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Don’t

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Do your degree.

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Do

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editor's pick DO

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Don’t

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off.

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Do

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them at the sports fair.

Don’t

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DON'T

Features

Mixing things Up!

ing.

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others.

evening.

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Alexi Gunner

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Features

Welcome: places to go, things to see...

Albany Road -

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Roath Park quenchfeatures@gairrhydd.com

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Features gwdihw

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will. A whole host of promoters put on nights to

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jacob's Market

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Cardiff Arts institute

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Food & Drink

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Food & Drink

Fresh foraging Simone Miche and Chloe Slade hand pick a chunky bunch of Cardiff's best drinking holes and food spots for freshers.

-Beatbox Bars Ltd. 10ftTall (11a-12 Church St, Cardiff) Buffalo Bar (11 Windsor Place, Cardiff) Buffalo Lounge (34 Woodville Road, Cathays)

Located at the end of Albany Road and again, a little further out of the student drinking bubble, -

you’re after. 10ftTall and Buffalo Bar are both -

-Shot in the Dark (12 City Rd, Roath) This cosy little venue is located at the end of City

rious, eccentric and stylish; the perfect setting to (which is 2-4-1 at all three venues on weeknights.) pub-esque, with bars chocked full of world beers, wines and spirits. The club nights and bands are

and bar. It serves lovely little nibbles, great wine area.

Buffalo Bar is a little oasis right in the city centre

is well known for adventurous vegetarian and vedinary drink options, such as fresh passion fruit

-The Woodville (1-5 Woodville Rd, Cathays)

cor could be described as slightly pretentious, but appealing, especially when you can sip a coconut

Situated on the corner of Cathays Terrace and Woodville Road, The Woodville is in the perfect location for a post-lecture pint and is a staple within

Cardiff.

-Gw di hw (6 Guildford Crescent, Cardiff)

-Pen and wig (1 Park Grove, Cathays) A little way out of the centre of Cathays, The Pen standards this place can be considered a 'proper pub' serving a bunch of local ales such as Brains and a consistently good selection of guest ales too,

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food@gairrhydd.com

cheap drink.

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Food & Drink

-The Vulcan Lounge (2 Wyverne Rd, Cathays) Open to the public just a year ago, with its quirky decor, good food and beer garden that makes you feel like you’ve fallen down a rabbit hole into into one of the most popular student pubs in the Cathays area. Its plentiful seats, pool tables and chilled out vibe makes it the perfect place for socials and its fantastic pre-lash prices on Thursday and Friday (from only £1.50 a pint) from 5pm, rival the drink deals in pubs surrounding it.

-North Star (131, North Rd, Cardiff) Big Brother to its little sibling, The Vulcan, The North Star is a converted Victorian pub on North Road with tonnes of character and an extensive bar, serving a selection of traditional ales and good wines like Spanish Rioja. It also has live bands on a Sunday to accompany your traditional Welsh roast, which are served until late in the evening.

-Cardiff Arts Institute (29 Park Place, Cardiff) Cardiff Arts is incroyable. Full stop. With its oddball decor and mojito bar, it’s one of the most eclectic places in Cardiff. From life drawing and weekend car-bootique’s to some of the coolest live music and liveliest DJ sets, this is a place that no one should sweep off until sampling.

-Sahara Shisha Bar (207 City Rd, Cathays) If you’re more partial to a mocktail than a cocktail, then try Sahara for an alcohol free, but equally enjoyable late night social spot. This shisha bar on city road serves hot and cold beverages and a and mint to mango and cherry.

-Thé Pot (138 Crwys Rd, Cathays) Similar to Shot in the dark, Thé Pot is perhaps more of a café than a bar mid-week. On the weekend, however, this place makes the most of its license and turns into a late night drinking spot, serving beer and wine in its kitsch setting. Look out for its occasional gigs, as its tiny setting lends itself to creating a huge atmosphere.

food@gairrhydd.com

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-Koko Gorillaz (7-9 Miskin St, Cathays) Look out for the events that take place in Koko’s upstairs area, like the regular reggae nights, drum and bass and dub step. If it’s atmosphere with its garish decoration and grumpy staff. Walk 200 metres down the road to Buffalo Lounge and ence...

Books

Reviews Vladimir Nabokov Mary Mary, originally published in 1970, is one of Vladimir Nabokov’s lesser-known novels. It’s well worth a read, whether you are interested in Russian literature or not: the character names are manageable even for the uninitiated (the hardest is Alfyorov) and, being set in Germany, the place names are even more so!

The main character, Ganin, could have been the inspiration for Wesley Gibson in Wanted; he is dry and incurably bored. Like a Russian Catcher in the Rye, this is another of those books where nothing much actually happens: the whole narrative pivots around the reunion of Ganin with his former lover, Mary, but ends before she arrives. Nonetheless, the promise of happiness in a book otherwise so strikingly devoid of it is utterly mesmerising, and more than enough to hold the reader until the last page.

Emma Hillier

The novel follows Lexie Sinclar and Elina, two termination not to settle for an ordinary life. Lexie lives in 1960s suburbia: expelled from university, she feels trapped in her middle-class family. Elina, an artist in the present, is trying to look after her new born baby, but is barely able to function after complications during the birth. She has a studio in her garden shed but will she ever be able to paint again? As both women start very different journeys, it’s impossible to predict plot twists, an advantage over a lot of modern novels. O’Farrell manages to slide between the time changes effortlessly, but in parts the plot development feels slow.

This is a minor criticism, however, since at times I was so excited to unravel the mysteries, the suspage I understood why the book won a Costa Book Award. O’Farrell’s words are poetic, even beautiful, but do not cross the line into sentimentality or become clichéd. I cannot recommend a novel more - this should be your summer read!

Kate Bennett

books@gairrhydd.com

Maggie O’Farrell The Hand That First Held Mine

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Books

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Sun, Sea and Serious reading.

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Becca Eustis discusses those dirty, trashy books that shamefully dwell at the bottom of everyone's suitcase.

Books The time has come. You’ve packed your sun-

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ard & Judy

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James Bond

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you?

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''light and trashy -

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or

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Rich-

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out

''...chicklit... international espionage...

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Fashion

Starting university in a new city can be daunting (especially not knowing where anything is!). In this issue of Quench, we welcome you to Cardiff and make settling into the city as comfortable as places to shop. Forget the high street, it is Cardiff ’s intricate warren of arcades, which have an array of one off independent stores, that make shopping exciting. A new pair of shoes will always make you feel better, a one-off dress can lighten the spirit, and even if you are shopping for aw whole new you with a few different options that can make all of this possible.

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fashion fashion

Cardiff's shopping gems

fashion

fashion fashion fashion fashion

Fashion

Pretty Green

22-44 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff CF10 1AF

Cardiff can consider itself privileged to be one of the few cities that can add Pretty Green to its shopping list; it is the latest and greatest pop-up store located in Cardiff ’s Morgan Arcade. It was founded and designed by Beadyeye front man Liam Gallagher and consists of two collections that draw on 60s style. The Green collection offers quality casual clothing, such as simple t-shirts with the classic Pretty Green logo, and neck scarves that are perfect for everyday wear. The Black label consists of luxurious fabrics that make up a classic British style which includes the classic parka coat that Liam has made fashionable and sought after by the public. The label has already won two awards for ‘Menswear brand of the year 2010’ and 'Best Etail Marketing Initiative' in 2011, which proves its success. The original mod father, Paul Weller, also designs a section of the brand that is inspired by British pop culture.

The store is beautifully spacious and simple

leather sofas, which create a comfortable shopping experience. But what I love most of all are the splashes of Liam’s style; the most noticeable is the mod style paisley wallpaper exclusive to Pretty Green and large scaled pictures of Liam that adorn the walls. Alongside these are more intimate pictures of him performing with his band Beadyeye on location. It is these pictures that make you feel like you have stepped into Liam’s rock ‘n’ roll world.

Pretty Green stores are also used as music venues to showcase the talents of up-and-coming bands; this is set to happen monthly to promote diff was by Welsh band ‘Broken Vinyl Club’, which to Wales. It seems Pretty Green has taken Cardiff by storm. Watch this space.

Hann Davies

1. Vintage Paisley scarf, £75 from the Black label.

2. Canvas pump available in white and black, £50.

3. Navy crew neck tee by Weller for Pretty Green, £40.

Find them at: www.prettygreen.com Email: Cardiff@prettygreen.com Facebook: Pretty Green Cardiff YouTube: www.youtube.com/thisisprettygreen

fashion@gairrhydd.com

Best Buys

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Fashion

Seren If you’re after the latest fashion, but are bored of high street collections that everyone buys, head to Seren Boutique who offer on trend one-off pieces.

All garments are hand-picked from London, which guarantees you avoid the awkward moment when Seren support many up and coming designers, but also stock the feminine labels Dahlia and Arro-

35 Morgan Arcade, Cardiff, CF10 1AF belts that accentuate the waist, and not forgetting the unusual jewellery that adorn the big oak table in the centre of the boutique.

The shops décor adds to the atmosphere of luxury chic. The various hanging bird cages, heavy ruby curtains hanging in the changing area and life size canvas of the iconic Audrey Hepburn is very friendly and helpful and gives you expert

at Oxford Street. You can take your pick from the rails of skirts, jackets, and dresses that come in all and simple, to detailed with sequins and gems.

The boutique also sells the most beautiful shoes

offs; it’s like a breath of fresh air after hours of hard essay writing!

Hann Davies

fashion@gairrhydd.com

Best Buys Find them at: www.serenboutique.com Email: info@Serenboutique.com Facebook: Seren Boutique

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for autumn picnics in the park. Prices vary.

2.Lace up boots that come in various colours can complete the laid-back going out approach. Wear with a cute tea dress for a pretty look from day until night. Prices vary.

Fashion

Looby Loo's

prints by Jam. The handmade classic 50s tea have to be the most alluring pieces in the store.

They have all been handmade using beautiful material. Team them with pretty petty coats from Vintage Allure that slip underneath the dress to add extra 50’s glamour and a vintage hatbox and cameo necklace that can also be found in the shop.

Best Buys Beautiful, real leather, rounded satchels that come in bottle green and burnt orange.

They are a steal at just £55 pounds each, and don’t forget to use 10% student discount!

If edgy designs sound more appealing, head downstairs to the 60s inspired living room (complete with orange sofa, fur rug, old records and copies of Nylon) - perfect when you want a sit down after all that hard shopping!). Here you’ll section is located on the far wall under the label kooki two bit. Look out for 80s inspired shirts, caps, ties, satchels, briefcases, and collectable Nike high tops. Kooki Two Bit also rework women’s vintage. The garments include cute dresses, pastel shirts with lace collar, patterned skirts and casual tops that are perfect for festivals, gigs or a trip to one of Cardiff ’s quirky bars.

If you’re living off a student budget then fear not, Looby Loo’s offer a 10% student discount with student ID. (Note: once you see how beautiful the clothing is, your NUS card will be your best friend).

Hann Davies Find them at: www.loobyloos.co.uk Facebook: Looby Loo’s boutique Twitter: @Looby_Loos Online Shop: http://www.loobyloos.co.uk/

books@gairrhydd.com

Ever walked into a 60s living room that looks like the venue for a good old British tea party? This is what Looby Loo’s looks like. Full of detailed decorations, huge suitcases to rummage through and not forgetting the beautiful hand-picked clothes, Looby Loo’s truly is a treasure chest for all things vintage.

The shop specialises in different elegant brands like Darling, Ruby Belle, Electric Gypsy and Vintage Allure, including nautical 60s

16 High Street Arcade, Cardiff

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fASHION fASHION fASHION fASHION fASHION fASHION fASHION fASHION

Fashion

Fresher Fashion Leonie Roderick presents your guide to Fresher's Fashion Summer has been and gone, and the universities take on Fresher’s week! University is, arguably, an extremely scary experience; you are in a new environment, a long way from home, and most importantly of all: you will have to make new friends.

But do not despair! There is one part that we have

sussed out for you, and that is Fresher’s week fashion. In the following pages, we have outlined self in at some point in the next couple of weeks, with some fashion related ideas to dress the part (which is also a great excuse to ‘invest’ in a new university proof wardrobe – am I right?).

FOR HIM...

FOR HER.

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&

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Fashion

First Lecture

(her) What you want to do is stand out, but not overdress. Preferably, you should aim to go for a ‘casual-chic’ look. Therefore, wear something simple like these black skinny jeans, which are incredibly easy to combine. Make sure to wear it with a sheer pussybow blouse, as it adds a feminine touch to

wearing these statement tan wedge sandals, your to practice beforehand though; falling over in front of 300 other students is not preferable (but will definitely give a lasting impression, positive or not!).

Finally, this leopard print belt will ensure to add

for your wardrobe; every girl should own at least

her

her her her

Black skinny jeans, Topshop, £40 Cream sheer pussybow blouse, River Island, £30 Tan wedge sandals, John Lewis, £120 Leopard print belt, ASOS, £12

(him) Unfortunately, there is a great misconception in this universe that men hate shopping.

Of course this is not true by any means, as even the most unfashionable male out there Therefore, why not make sure that when you walk into your lecture theatre, you at least

fashion@gairrhydd.com

are wearing. Instead of going for the usual option of denim jeans, why not mix it up and go for a pair of comfortable chinos instead?

These green cotton chinos from Topman are a nice change from the usual camel coloured pairs, and look great with a denim shirt (tucked in or not, that is up to you). Lastly, these trousers can easily be combined with brogues, but if you want to go for a more summery look, then make sure to add some deck shoes.

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Green cotton chinos, Topman, £28 Multi pocket denim shirt, Self, £75 Rubber sole deck shoe, ASOS, £25

Fashion

First Night Out on the town won’t take longer than a few minutes, or seconds even; you take off your cardigan, and you are ready to go! But if you prefer to put a little more thought into what you are wearing, read on. Firstly, I love this River Island t-shirt, as the brown panels on both shoulders add something extra to an otherwise basic item. The brown carrotstyle jeans are also a real must-have, as these jeans can easily be carried over from summer to winter.

Plus, its warm autumn colour is bang on trend!

Finally, if you are worried about ruining your favourite trainers then these robust boots might be a better option to wear during your mental nights out all through fresher’s week.

(him) Grey T-shirt with brown shoulder panels, River Island, £16 Brown carrot jeans, Topman, £40 Hudson Leather Brogue Boots, Topman, £120

(her) Chiffon Mullet Dress, Topshop, £65 ASOS Platform Shoe, ASOS, £55 Leather Lock Body Bag, ASOS, £35 Gold look Arm Cuff, River Island, £13

from the crowd, but not in a look-at-what-she’s-wearing (or not wearing in some cases) kind of way. There are a few simple rules when it comes to party dresses. Lesson 1: Avoid maxi dresses! You want to be able to move around! Lesson 2: Sounds logical, but do not go for dresses which are too short: you do not want to be pulling it down the whole evening (very unladylike). And lastly, try to avoid too much sparkle and neon-coloured dresses. Therefore, why not go for this black Topshop dress. It is simple but chic, and the long hem adds a little bit of sexiness to it. Also, by adding the yellow clutch and purple shoes you make an otherwise simple make sure that you do not over-accessorize with your jewellery; a few subtle golden touches are all you need!

fashion@gairrhydd.com

University is not just all hard work, there has to be some play involved as well! So after a long day of lectures, the best thing to do is go out and have some fun. When

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Travel

Erasmus Travel addict

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I know for all you Freshers, leaving Cardiff is the last thing on your mind, but, every year many students partake in a year abroad. As travel editor, I think it is important that I inform you of this ridiculously good opportunity. Would you believe me if I said you could swan off to a Europe for a year and still graduate? No, this isn’t some sort of elaborate joke - its called an Erasmus year. Obviously it does involve some work, namely continuing your degree at a European uni, but in my opinion this allows you to take your education to a new level by engaging with another culture and people. It also often enables you to hone an interin a student environment there is still a plethora of parties. Although I'm jealous as I present this information (I wish I had done one) I think an Ercially travel buffs) should seriously consider.

Your year out usually falls on your third year and not only does it allow you to continue your degree 'fee free' in Europe, but your fees at Cardiff are also waived and you are given a grant.

There are no compulsory language lessons so that leaves extra time for "studying" and it is sure way to meet new friends and challenge yourself. I genuinely think it is a hugely worthwhile experience and I have only ever heard positive feedback from those who have taken the jump. I know I am rather enthusiastic on the subject and I’m not saybut just keep it at the back of your mind, because you never know, by third year you might fancy an adventure. http://www.britishcouncil.org/erasmus.htm.

Clare Baranowski

Travel

discover

wales ...before it's too late

only when the fear of leaving kicks in that they decide to actually investigate their local area. So, here's some sound advice: go before it's too late!

The Brecon Beacons and The Gower are both large expanses of untamed countryside that are only an hour’s drive from Cardiff, so they are very accessible for a day trip or camping overnight. If you like ice cold water, you could take a dip in the river and waterfalls in the Brecon’s or jump into the sea at the Gower. But if you want an even big-

ger challenge, Snowdonia is 4 hours north from Cardiff and home to Snowdon mountain – a must do for climbers and hikers. There are other adrenaline fuelled activities only a short drive from the capital, such as gorge walking (20 mins away in Neath), horse riding along the beach (in Ogmore

By Sea, Bridgend), quad biking (Taff Valley) and are very easy to book online. It is worthwile to make the most of your three years in Cardiff and see why Wales is touted as the home to some of the most beautiful countryside in the UK. Clare Baranowski

travel@gairrhydd.com

Cardiff University students often wait until the

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Travel

Destination to REJUVENATE Tepee Timeout Clear your cobwebs after the Freshers' frenzy by doing something out of the ordinary. Stay in a Tepee and explore the plethora of picturesque spots that South Wales has on offer. ‘The Tipi Company’ run a little business from their farm in Ogmore on Sea, offering tepee’s to warmly welcomed guests from March to late October. It’s a beautiful little seaside spot where you can go horse-riding, afternoons gorging on good food in ‘The Pelican’ room. The Tepee’s sleep 8 people, with a charcoal perfect way to freshen up after the not so fresh, always advertised on the internet and you are -

this fortnight and you have seven friends to invite

A city spa For me the words 'spa treatment' conjure an image of my grandmother smothered in seaweed on an outrageously expensive wilderness retreat. But, fellow economically challenged students, there is a way to experience this bodily rejuvenation

travel@gairrhydd.com

Hotel (in student terms opposite Tiger Tiger) and inside you will discover Laguna spa. This magicials or the slightly daunting full body exfoliation. me the most enticing part of the whole deal is the oppurtunity to slip into those infamous white slippers and bathrobe and enjoy a complementary tastes best.

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Spa-ing provides an opportunity to escape from the messy student life and lord it over the rest of us for an hour or so. Laguna even offers a ‘Twilight Escape’ – sorry no Robert Pattinson which allows you to begin your treatments in the evening, so there really is no excuse. So slow your breathing, empty your mind and indulge in a little relaxation.

Photos

Keep snappin

The Guardian Travel Competition: Monthly

The Times Travel Competition

the online gallery.

The Guardian Cardiff Project Document Monthly competition; p

National Geographic 'My Shot' Competition: National Geographic

ian Cardiff

National Geographic portfolio.

photographycompetitions.net.

and sponsorship.

quenchphotos@gairrhydd.com

The Guardian Your Pictures

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Photos

The Unseen Quench have received so many great photos , both for our competitions and in general. Here is a selection of our favourites from last year.

For those of you who are keen to be part of Quench, the photography section is making a real effort to try and get more student photographs in the magazine. Photo editors Tom and Lucy have decided to try and recruit a team of photographers linked up to emails from all sections of Quench, providing opportunities such as fashion shoots, club and gig photography, as well as other random image requests. Have a think about if you would like to get involved and be sure to give quenchphotos@ gairrhydd.com an email if it's of interest! Do. It.

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quench photos@gairrhydd.com

Photos

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LGBT+

Welcome to Cardiff!

And more importantly, welcome to the LGBT+ section! Whether you are gay, straight, bisexual, transgender or just unsure, this is the city - and the section - for you.

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LGBT+ Hello and a big welcome to all the freshers! Moving to Cardiff and joining the LGBT+ society has been one of the best experiences of my life. Although it can feel a bit intimidating walking up to a stand and asking to join I would absolutely 100% do it all over again. The society has helped me to grow as made me a lot more sociable.

The LGBT+ society hosts a massive variety of events, from coffee mornings at the Vulcan, to clubbing in Cardiff's "gay scene" and even bowling! Can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces at all the Freshers events!

Charlotte Society President

''It doesn't matter if you're not a Fresher, there's something for everyone!

I joined the society at the start of last year, the beginning of my second year here in Cardiff. The loud music of clubs, and provides a chance to get to know each other in a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. Everyone was very friendly and, although nerves are, unfortunately, inevitable, I is the Freshers' Party at one of the gay clubs in the city centre. This is a chance to have a drink (or many) and just have fun. After that, the society runs very frequent events, including a weekly coffee morning, and there are opportunities to come along throughout the year and get to know people.

In no time at all, you'll soon feel settled in.

Thomas Leeming Third Year Student

''The LGBT+ Society has helped me grow as a person coming year! Congratulations on choosing and getting into Cardiff. If you’re LGBT+, well done as you’ve picked a city with a thriving LGBT+ community and a University where there is loads going on!

I’m head of Cardiff ’s LGBT+ Association- we’re a group of students who run campaigns that look out for your needs and want to improve your experience in Cardiff. This year we’re planning campaigns around Healthcare students, 'coming out' in sports teams, and much more! Cardiff also has a really active LGBT+ Society who run regular social events – from Coffee Mornings and Quizzes, to nights out in Cardiff,. There is something for everyone!

If you want to get involved with the LGBT+ in Cardiff, be that with getting support by making new friends in the Society, or if you want to get involved campaigning with the LGBT+ Association, then pop onto our Facebook group: just search "Cardiff University LGBT+ Society" , or drop me an email on lgbt_cardiffstudents@hotmail.com I hope you’re as excited about the year ahead as I am – have fun, and don’t forget to keep reading Quench!

Kate Boddington

''Nerves are inevitable but in no time at all you'll feel settled in 33

Ar ts

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Arts

WELCOME only then can you discover the hidden gems. But, if you’re looking for a map, Quench is the answer.

The hope is that Quench will open your eyes to the new and the old so Cardiff ’s vivacious arts scene will be truly unravelled. You will soon discover that there is always something to see or do.

Look out for previews and listings of major and minor events in each issue, which will aide your discovery of the city and ensure you know the latest on the scene. You may also be interested in the features on artists, photographers, art galleries and workshops that will truly expose the multidimensional arts world within the city. You will soon discover that Cardiff will exceed your expectations.

Asha Verma

Go beyond the obvious...

arts@gairrhydd.com

It’s a new year, and a new city, for some of you. So, it would appear that introductions are in order: an introduction to Quench, Cardiff and the arts world within the city. Like any city, Cardiff is all about exploration. Perceptions of Cardiff may be deceiving; as it is not simply the quaint, picturesque city it’s thought to be. There is an obscure element to intrigue your minds and soon you will realise that there is so much more character and depth lurking within the city. The arts scene animates Cardiff ’s back streets and it is these quirky locations that are often left undiscovered. No matter what your artistic opinions there is something for everyone here, and you may be surprised on what you stumble across. I would recommend having a little faith in getting lost in the city, as

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Fresh Theatre ing three companies making waves across the city’s stages. Yes, of course, Cardiff hosts the show stopper musicals and tribute act tours that dominate the calendars of commercial theatres. If you dig just a little bit deeper, past Connie Fisher in the Sound of the Music ( although that does promise to be a West don’t bypass the New Theatre on your way to Fat Cats ( two for one cocktail offers), just make sure that you take a peek in these corners of the city’s theatre scene too:

tHEATRE wALES Dirty Protest arts@gairrhydd.com

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If you think that theatre has the tendency to be stuffy, over priced and irrelevant then you think exactly the same as theatre company Dirty Protest. Desperate to break the stereotype, the company was formed to help new playwrights get their work off the ground and with resounding success. These guys also don’t believe in uncomfortable seating but you will have to arrive early to ensure a place on a front row sofa to avoid being on a tree stump fashioned as a seat at the back (as I often am.) This is simply because Welsh theatre’s dirty secret is getting out and attracting commercial size audiences to intimate, inner city venues, and rightly so. Bright, brilliant new writing is being delivered script in hand in pubs, clubs and warehouses and doesn’t stop for breath. This is a company that want to keep packing punches with their work, so if you have the talent get yourself along to their next perthat you get involved with this company by taking a tree stump under the fairy lights.

Arts

sherman cymru Just next door to the SU, you’ll notice a building covered in scaffolding waiting to unveil new voices and fresh visions in South Wales theatre. Until the hotly tipped Sherman Cymru redevelopment is complete, with backing from the Capital Lottery grant and Arts Council Wales, you can catch their work at creative spaces around the city. Their re working of Measure for Measure recently did the rounds but the company’s priorities lie in investtraining programmes, is another top priority of the company and for any budding stage technicians, performers or playwrights provides yet another opportunity to get involved with making innovative local theatre whilst being in Cardiff. Sherman Cyrmu is desperate to involve local theatre, so as a member of that community let them welcome you with open arms.

NATIONAL tHEATRE wALES commercial theatre staple. A rediscovered script by British theatre’s angry The Devil Inside Him made for a frank, alternative theatre experience. I have advocated every student going to see at least one of NTW’s performances during their time at Cardiff ever since. One Western mail critic dubbed an evening with this company as ‘one of my most memorable theatrical journeys,’ a journey that not enough people are taking despite media hype and packed venues. The Com-

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culture. Hot off the back of the Dark Philosophers tour and the Passion starring Charlie Sheen, the company bring The Village Social to village halls across Wales, with the promise of ‘a depraved orgy of blood’ and innovative new work Outdoors coming to Aberystwyth. Keep eyes on the NTW online community for news of the company’s latest ventures coming to a Cardiff stage near you.

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music

Live Venues

Quench takes your hand and leads you through the streets of Cardiff on a quest for sound.

The Globe Albany Road

Set in Roath, The Globe describes itself as the ‘heart and soul of live music in Cardiff ’ than the other small venues, The Globe man-

established band (past acts have included

Emma Wilford

Clwb Ifor Bach Womanby St. ers, it is one of the most established venues

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Emma Wilford

Music Cardiff Arts Institute Park Place

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Matt Tilling

10 Feet Tall Church St.

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Jo Southerd

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Music

GwdiHw Churchill Way

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Emma Wilford

The Students' Union Park Place Solus and the Great Hall provide a place for

Emma Wilford

music@gairrhydd.com

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Music Buffalo Bar Windsor Place tion as the

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Matt Tilling

MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC The Coal Exchange Cardiff Bay

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Jo Southerd

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Music

Nights Cardiff's best nights out. Laid. Bare.

Traffic

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Club and also put on special events around -

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Jo Southerd

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Emma Wilford

Music The Live Music Society

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Matt Tilling

MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC MUSIC One Mission

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Jo Southerd

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to drum and bass, dubstep, hip hop,

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Music

Reviews Music reviews n' things Dry the River No Rest -

Matt Tilling

Bombay Bicycle Club Shuffle

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MUSIC MUSIC

Music The Horrors Skying -

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Sea, recorded and self-produced the album

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Jo Southerd

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FILM

Film

Zizek and Psychoanalytic Cinema

Don't be suspicious, young freshers. And do not be afraid of the high-minded academia lying before you. Psychoanalysis and Cinema, it sounds pretentious, over intellectual and derivative; but being these things represent a daily regularity for the next three years. It may be the only time you

you something interesting to say when your tenta-

I want a third pill!

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habits. Plus, I talk about Star Wars in a bit. So, come hither to consider one of the most prominent

The 'Elvis of cultural theory' can been found considering the future of Capitalism surrounded by cameras set upon himself, lambasting the moralisation of the recession on Newsnight and more profoundly for me, discussing the relationship between Psychoanalysis and cinema in his documentary, A Perverts Guide To Cinema.

The documentary begins with Zizek starkly claiming the unconscious and fantasy realm that cinema engages in – “Cinema is the ultimate pervert art form. It doesn’t give what you desire, it tells you how to desire.” Confused? Take one of his most blockbuster analyses – Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, and Anakin Skywalker’s transformation from human Jedi into the seemingly immortal Darth Vader. Zizek suggests that rather than the typical idea that we all are piss-pants-scared of dying, what is really frightening is the idea of Darth Vader never dying. Obviously, this is prescient if you hate your planet being exploded, but Zizek suggests more profoundly that the scene of Skywalker becoming the proto-robotic Vader is frightening, as it’s intercut with images of Luke and Leia being born- therefore becoming Father and immortal at once.

What frightens in this scene is the typically Freudian idea of the immortal father- the spectre over the son’s life, which indeed plays out across the rest of the saga. It isn’t merely a plot point though, Zizek says that it is the uniquely cinematic elements- the ghastly mechanical breathing and the intercutting, which invests Vader both as immortal and father, constructs the way the viewer perceives the scene - not merely constructing Vader as a villain with these characteristics, but rather teaching us to desire and perceive this, as it goes.

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So what? Does this really affect our view of cinema other than being a decent thesis? It does. Zizek what we really are”- hence cinema gives us deeper psychological insights than we may suspect. Is The Matrix about returning to reality from the illusion, or knowing the reality of the illusion itself ? Zizek appears in the blank white programme where Neo

is questioning whether the Matrix is really about seeing "how far the rabbit hole goes"- suggesting rather than being given the option between the be about how we need the engagement between the real and the Matrix. He suggests that the choice between red and blue pill isn't really between reality and illusion, as the illusion structures our reality and conception of reality itself. Morpheus may beg to differ, but if you take away the Matrix, reality itself begins to crumble. He wants another pill, to experience the reality of the illusion itself.

For me then, we could be inclined to take a slice of Godard, and suggest The Matrix is, as all great cinema, about cinema itself. We aren't removed observers of this truth as we sit in the darkness while actively demanding our undivided attention.

It's more spectral than painting, more claustrophobic than literature. In the cinema, our engagement with the narrative is part of what constitutes the in a way we would not at Guernica for e.g., even if the latter is the more concretely terrible than some of cinema, demanding attention as he demonstrates the power of the medium to carve out physical spaces of its own and tells us how to desire.

Film of the week

Apocalypse Now

Dir: Francis Ford Coppola Cast: Marlon Brando, Dennis Hopper, Martin Sheen, Robert Duvall.

10/10

achieved posthumous cult status on re-release, it has been either by a volte face change to the

demand. Apocalypse Now seems to represent neither of these, and one is almost predisposed to wish for the prelapsarian thrill of not knowing how brilliant the following 100 or so minutes of celluloid will be.

While some works run the risk of seeming peculiarly out of place as they creep awkwardly from the canon of classic cinema next to movies packed with fresh ideas of what con-

virtue of their stark unfamiliApocalypse Now is irrefutably Coppola’s poetic vision of Willard’s (Sheen) episodic quest

to encounter and destroy the es beyond the typical restraints absurd horror, horror of war, something terrifyingly beautiful and authentic.

Conscious of gratuitous apogee, let’s deal with the way in

silence. In scenes such as this, Coppola's command of frame and narrative is absolute - the 'Heart of Darkness' at the centre of war not 'revealed' through exposition; rather, as the crew become sucked towards Kurtz's

the same poetic madness which war. Coppola’s high claim that reality with which the madness of war is exposed. As Willard the Meekong river, the tragedy before them is told with awful clarity; bodies horribly twisted lie crooked draped over trees, Napalm explodes with ruthless den Do Long bridge is caved in darkness both literally and metaphorically, as soldiers shoot

and reason.

However, Apocalypse Now is as far away from a moral tale as could be. It captures something of the essence of war, for example where Willard’s crew kill 3 harmless Vietnamese people after a needless check of their boat. Form mirrors content as the unannounced sound of bullets convulse through the air frenetically, followed by piercing

into the same violent poeticism that makes Kurtz 'beyond transcendent quality. Willard is caught in a double bind as it is clear Kurtz must be destroyed, but equally he can only do so by admitting Kurtz's clarity in the face of war - that the only sane thing to do is go mad.

While the military tell Willard that Kurtz is beyond 'acceptable human conduct', his mission brings him closer to the evil he ish his mission on the violently poetic terms given to him. As he emerges from the swamp to complete the ritualistic killing, its clear there can be no redemption, no way to erase or moralise the events - not only of war, but itself.

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theatres is at once a curiously arrogant and perhaps brave decision to take. Do slightly brighter images and tentatively reworked tion, a rethinking of that which has already passed into myth?

Photographed negatives and the digitized misé en scene of nated in different ways, but you can’t reprint the legend. When

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editorial Now that you’ve had time to mourn the dramatic ending of the Harry Potter franchise (yeah, it’s hard growing up), we hope you’re ready to kick off this academic year with slew of cinematic sensations courtesy of Quench Film diff University, welcome to a place where movie lovers are never too far away from best haunts, from the endless escalators of Vue and Cineworld to the pleasant arthouse aura of Chapter. So make time between the boozing and befriending for a cinema visit, mum gave you and your new bezzie’s DVD collection – honestly, there’s no better cure The Hangover and using it as inspiration for your next night out.

FILM

Trailer Trash: The Dark Knight Rises

As if the anticipation for The Dark Knight’s senaut 2012 release shows off a cast of Hollywood Christopher Nolan’s team of untouchable players.

A real teaser, debuted ahead of Harry Potter showings, is a shorter, more minimal look at the Neeson in classic Nolan style. This fake, however, was enough to fool thousands of YouTubers, and

aggression. And then we see Robin Williams, and we realise the whole trailer is a big fat hoax.

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Best film for... …portraying the value of human life.

127 Hours

Picture yourself inescapably trapped in a desert canyon for days on end. Murderously hot during daytime and torturously cold at night, your only companion is a giant rock that has fallen on your arm, imprisoning you and cutting off your

painful and monotonous days to prevent insanity, potentially fatal escape plan.

Recreating this remarkably true scenario, director the excruciating reality of such a situation, but that delves into the human psyche, drawing out a powerful and overriding instinct to survive that is frequently forgotten in the comfort of modern life. The victim-come-hero was Aron Ralston, an American mountain climber, who James Franco – despite its extremity – will leave you feeling how wonderful life is whilst you have it.

Best film for...

…putting you off Facebook for life.

It all starts out kind of cute. An up and coming New York photographer, Yaniv ‘Nev’ Schulman, receives an astoundingly accurate painting of one of his published works from an eager young prodigal artist: Abby Pierce, age eight, from Ishpeming, Michigan. Amazed by Abby’s talent, Nev strikes up a surprising friendship with the girl, initiated through everyone’s favourite social network/procrastination portal, Facebook. Their relationship draws the attention of Nev’s brother Ariel and friend Henry Joost, who decide to document the exchange of comments and messages. As

Catfish

the idyllic family portrait that Nev had envisioned is skewed.

As the three friends follow the growing mystery of what began as an innocent friendship, they discover how appearances can be deceiving, and the Internet’s shocking ability to mask identity. is a stomach-turning documentary that continues to have impact long after the end titles, and will certainly make you think twice about those online safety talks you had in secondary school.

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paintings in mail, he also begins interacting with Abby’s family – most notably her attractive older

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It's Kind Of A Funny Story FILM ...painting an optomistic portrait of depression …painting an optimistic portrait of depression.

Since (500) Days of Summer, there’s been a growing surge in the number of off-kilter comedies with quirky editing styles and tragically relatable

(Keir Gilchrist) as he contemplates hurling himpressed; he’s well aware of the stigma that comes with that, and his friends and family seem to treat to seek professional, secretive help. Little does he know the type of treatment he’s in for.

Whilst somewhat clichéd at times, It’s Kind Of A Funny Story minding us that it’s ok to feel not so good now and likeable kid, but it’s his friendship with the other pact. In particular, his relationship with the dry-

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suicidal father who never really grew up, is dealt with in a mature, moving and often humorous way, approached with a hopeful and witty attitude.

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Lights camera action No point in us telling you what films to watch if you don't know where to watch them, right?

Cineworld Next to the food quarter of St David’s Centre

Fairly soon you will realise that your money has done a vanishing act; a cheap night out at the cinema is the perfect solution. Sign up to student beans online, grab a mate and print off a voucher, which will get you in on a 2 for 1, Monday to Thursday with your student card.

Vue Near Central Station

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Freshers is the time of year when you will meet more people than you can possibly hope to remember, so if you want to avoid the crowds for a bit Vue is the place for you. It’s a bit further to walk and a bit more expensive than Cineworld but despite its impressive size it is often surprisingly quiet.

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chapter Canton, it’s not the nicest of areas so bear that in mind when travelling.

a bit more cultured then welcome to your home from home. Chapter is a fantastic little arts centre your cultural needs be they cinematic, artistic or theatrical.

Odeon Sometimes the big screen simply isn’t big enough.

When this is the case head on down to the Imax in existence the experience is still one to remember.

union Park Place

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Despite the Union being common knowledge for you all, there are still many hidden secrets within it.Why not head to the Societies Fayre during Soc will take care of all your movie needs. Also, don't miss Film Club. You'll probably see their posters around Cardiff so make sure you go to their nights - previous highlights include a to the Future marathon!

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Iconography: Tilda Swinton

Swinton moved towards more mainstream territory, tackling movies such as Vanilla Sky, The icles of Narnia in which she chilled all as the

roles of varying type has given her elite status in both the Hollywood and Arthouse world.

Films worth watching to see Swinton’s chameleon-like capabilities at their best would have to be ance by an actress in a supporting role, Michael Clayton.

Fast making a name in the fashion world and constantly surprising viewers with her performances time after time, Swinton is top of her game yet somehow still manages to remain under the to best trigger a reaction from your average Joe but don’t assume her role in that movie to be the extent of her acting capabilities. Yes, she’s fantastic in it but see her in Julia or Michael Clayton and she’ll fast become one of your I’ve-got-to-seewhat-they’re-staring-in-next actors. I’ll save you the trouble, We Need to Talk about Kevin is out this October in which she plays the mother of an angst ridden pre-teen, post his high-school killing spree.

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Managing to switch effortlessly between international blockbuster movies as well as niche, Arthouse roles, referring to Tilda Swinton as a one trick pony could not be further from the truth. ton began her career in London on stage with The Royal Shakespeare Company before turning her evision mini-series and supporting roles lead her to claim the title role in Sally Potter’s Orlando; a triguing actresses around with her androgynous manner, remarkable acting capabilities and striking look.

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The team editor Gavin Jewkes Features Alexi Gunner, Camilla Flint, Lucy Trevallion food Simone Miche & Chloe Slade books Alice Hughes fashion Leonie Roderick & Hann Davies travel Clare Baranowski & Lia Martin photos Tom Armstrong & Lucy Chip lgbt+ Hector Roddan arts Asha Verma & Kirsty Allen music Emma Wilford, Jo Southerd & Phil Kenny film Fraser Isaac, Matt Ayres, Morten Wright