EVERY THURSDAY LADIES FREE DRINKS 11-1AM
A Note From The Editor
Editor-in-chief: Talal Budebs Managing Partner: Charl Chaka charlchaka@infusion.ae Editor: Andy Buchan andy@infusion.ae Sales Director: Vip Patel Vip@infusion.ae 050 169 8712
A year ago, we started our own Record label, the cunningly titled Infusion Records. And now, 12 months on, we’ve released 10 EPs spanning nu-disco, deep, tech and funky house, and been picked up for features in Rolling Stone, Time Out and had our last release reviewed by DJ Magazine, who gave it 8/10.
Contributors: Nthayi Tshehle, Richard Perez, Vip Patel, GarethIsOnIt
We’ve given new producers a platform to shine, and also provided help and feedback to aspiring young music makers looking to get their first release out there. And alongside other local record labels like audio tonic, Mixtura, 128 Recordings and more, we’re proudly pushing the local music scene forward and into the international market. It’s far from easy – our tracks regularly go head to head with 1500 tracks on release day – but we’re proud to say we’re making some headway. You can check out all 10 of our releases on any of the big download sites, including Beatport, Traxxsource, Juno, and, erm, Amazon, so do let us know what you think and what tracks are working in your sets.
Contact us: Tel/Fax: 04 368 8098
Andy
Design: Allan (Jmaxlolo) Tinsay Grown-up stuff: Infusion is published by Milehigh Media, LLC PO Box 53443 – Dubai, UAE
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BACK Retrospective on what’s been happening in our world.
> Say What? > Photo Gallery
Queen B
Is this the end for the album launch press blitz and hype? No PR and an unexpected record brought Beyonce record breaking sales +600,000 in three days.
Bad kitty
Old Jokes Home Q: What’s got four legs and flies? A: A dead horse.
Short and Tweet
@JamesBlunt Damn thing’s always getting caught under my feet. RT @ laurenlyall: Why does James Blunt sing like his willy is being stood on?
Money matters
Want to have a guess what the combined wealth of the Middle East’s billionaires is? $354 billion, that’s what, giving them a higher percentage of total wealth than any other region in the world.
What We Did 2013
What We Did 2013
What We Did 2013
Reggae Beach Fest @XL Beach Club
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Looking FORWARD Where we filter out the best things that are coming your way...
> Local News > Cover Story > Homegrown > The Good, The Bad & The Ugly
Looking Forward
Local News Texas in Dubai
Live music fans don’t have long to wait for their first gig this season, as Scottish pop rockers Texas are making their Dubai debut at the Irish Village on January 23. Celebrating 25 since their first ever public concert, and have sold more than 30 million records during that time, notably with White On Blonde and The Hush. The show starts at 9pm, with tickets Dhs175.
Market day
If you’re looking for a cooler shopping experience, the Outside the Box market at the Burj Park, Downtown Dubai from January 23-February 2 could be for you. With live music, DJs, workshops and kids activities, not to mention a host of 40 foot containers featuring a varied range of goods and F&B outlets, they’re offering something different as part of the Dubai Shopping Festival.
New Movida nights
High end Sheikh Zayed night spot Movida has opened up its Thursday nights to a range of international promoters to kick-start their 2014. Candypants kicks things off on the first Thursday of the month, with a motto of ‘not taking life too seriously,’ before VIP party providers Sintillate take over the 2nd Thursday, January 16. Ibiza club brand Pukka Up are on duties for January 23 with the highly respected Fierce Angel label providing the soundtrack at the end of the month on January 30.
Sunny Vibe Up
We’re not short of pool parties in this part of the world, but one of our favourites is the hip hop meets funk throwdown of Sunny Vibe Up held at the Dusk Terrace at the Radisson Blu in Media City. And they’ve invited over dub MC Rodney P and reggae mashup DJ Shepdog over for their January 17 party, alongside Deep Crates Cartel residents. It starts from 2pm, with advance tickets Dhs90, and Dhs120 on the door.
Looking Forward Rumours
Steve Aoki is said to be hitting Dubai before the summer. Musicals Stomp and Lord of the Dance are heading to Dubai this Spring. Justin Timberlake has been confirmed to play in Abu Dhabi on Friday May 23, tickets on sale from January 16 via thinkflash.ae.
Will Smith dropping a live MC set while his best mate Jazzy Jeff dropped a killer set at Barasti’s NYE bash. One of the stand out moments of 2014 already.
Can whoever sees Will Smith next in Dubai ask for our Dhs35 back from After Earth? And also tell him not to let his son act in films again. Thanks!
30 Rock US funny man Tracey Morgan is headed to the du Forum on February 6 and 7 to banish those start of the year blues.
People airing their dirty laundry over social media. Hugely entertaining, but we can’t help but feel some things are best left for private emails. That said, pass the popcorn!
Zero Gravity is our new favourite beach spot down at the Sky DiveCentre, with a huge beach, gorgeous bar, shisha lounge, fully stocked restaurant and all at affordable prices.
Wolf of Wall Street has had a reported 40 minutes slashed out of the Dubai version. We know it's a rock and roll tale of money, sex and drugs, but if it was OK to be screened uncut at the Dubai Film Festival, why not for everyone else?
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Beats by
Dietz
Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE’s strong start to the 2014 season continues with German techno star Robert Dietz headlining on Friday January 24… January is often the quiet time for DJs. They rest and recuperate from the excesses of the previous years, the jet lag, the hangovers, the studio time, the weeks of trans-Atlantic travel. Not so Robert Dietz, the German techno connoisseur. His January started with a Loco Dice show in Florida, followed by back to back dates in Mexico, including the highly respected BMP Festival in Cancun, before a few days later he was the main guest at the evergreen Robert Johnson club in Frankfurt. And then, of course, a few days later, he escapes sub-zero Europe for some Middle Eastern sunshine and his Dubai debut at Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE. After cutting his teeth on the Frankfurt scene, competing with the likes of Sven Vath, Ricardo Villalobos and Luciano, Dietz fought his way to recognition, aided by his skilled production which has seen him release on Cadenza, Tsuba and Saved Records. DJ-wise, he’s happy to switch it up in his sets, going from old to new skool house and techno tracks, always keeping the crowd on the edge. And having just spent a season in Ibiza, feeding off the island’s magical vibe, playing weekly at the Vagabundos party with Luciano, Dietz is one of the in-demand names for 2014. Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE feat. Robert Dietz, Friday January 24, 1pm-11pm, reservation@bluemarlinibiza-uae.com www.bluemarlinibiza-uae.com
Fancy extending your weekend with sunset views, happy hour drinks and some of the best DJ talent in Dubai? Then look no further than Homegrown… HomeGrown returns to 360 this year with more local talent than you can shake a (glow) stick at. We’ve broadened our horizons this year, and alongside regulars like Charl Chaka, Nthayi and Tristan Bain, we’ve got funky house DJs like Kristian Valdini, Jack Woodcock and Conan Liquid waiting in the wings. And we’re also blooding a new generation of DJs thanks to our Breakthrough DJ competition. All 3 of the house winners, first placed Elaoud, 2nd placed Shy and 3rd placed Loose Goose will be DJing together on Saturday February 1, while they’ll also get the chance to strut their stuff with their very own headline slot later in the year. 360 also offers beautiful views with happy hour from 7pm – 8pm and 2 floors which makes it the perfect way to end your weekend, every 1st and 3rd Friday of the month. Our Homegrown doors open from 6pm – 3am with free entry for everyone. For table bookings please call us on +971 56 682-6617.
2013 was one of the best years we can remember for Dubai’s club and entertainment scene, so it was a pleasure waltzing down memory lane to revisit the highlights, and a few lowlights, along the way…
2013
ThE GOOD the BAD & thE UGLY
Most Brits in one location
The Stone Roses piss-up gig at Media City, including a watching Liam Gallagher.
No show of the year
Ricardo Villalobos. You’re firmly off the Groove on the Grass’s Christmas card list.
Best Underground night of the year
Analog Room, without a doubt, filled the gap in the market left by iLL Communications, Trilogy and all the other forward-thinking house nights. With a big dark room, a big booming soundsystem, and an uncompromising line up, they created the best weekly night in a long time.
Rip off of the year
Rolling Stones tickets were expensive enough, but factor in the Dhs12 cost, per ticket, for the privilege of printing our your own out on top of the spurious booking fee, and you’re literally printing off money. Still bought them though.
F*** up of the year
NYE on the Palm. Thousands stuck on buses with no guidance, bedlam on the streets and a fire works display that burst into action at 12.30. The end of Sandance’s NYE bashes?
Gesture of the year
After taking the heat for problems largely out of their control (hello RTA, Nakheel and Dubai Police), Sandance offered a full refund to all their NYE ticket holders and 50% off the next event.
Venue of the year
Dubai does franchise very well, but they don’t always capture the magic and the vibe of the original. Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE maybe does it the best: with thousands of beautiful people, a cracking booking policy that’s seen some of the best deep and tech house DJs come to visit and a stunning beach-side location that makes you feel like you’re on holiday, it’s become a Dubai institution in a short space of time.
Surprise hit of the year
House of Afrika. We say surprise, we knew it would be quality, but to have a weekly night with that impact and consistency is something we’re very proud of.
Pop up venue of the year
Level 9. Those halcyon 4 weeks after Ramadan when thousands crammed into the Media One’s vacant 9th floor will live long in clubbing folklore. Back to basics clubbing as it should be.
Trend of the year
Franchise clubs. From Movida to Mahiki, Supperclub to VIP Room and Cirque Le Soir to Café Del Mar, there has been no shortage of imported, high end clubbing over the last few years. Clubs liberally borrowing from classic club culture for their name – hello Amnesia Underground and The Fabric. Pacha Ibiza UAE is next up, with a scheduled February opening...
Booking of the year
Hardwell’s gig at Nasimi takes some beating, with thousands once more descending onto the Palm for an EDM masterclass.
Twitter tw@t of the year
Stand up, if you don’t get too lightheaded you house heavyweight, DJ Sneak, for your colossal disregard for everyone on Twitter.
DJ of the year
It’s tough to look beyond audio tonic’s Raxon, with a string of bassline beauties under his production hat, and pulsating deep tech house set after pulsating deep tech house set across the Middle East, and even a slot at the huge BPM festival in Mexico.
DJ look of the year
With so many venues offering Pioneer’s CDJ 2000s, a DJ’s most common weapon of choice was a USB stick. Which made the blag ‘I’m with the DJ, I’m carrying his tunes’ that much harder to pull off when you brandish a tattered memory stick at the door.
Alternative venue of the year
With Deep Crates and Loaded already in its arsenal, 2013 was the year that Casa Latina brought forth more alternative delights, with Drop Dread’s Horace Andy gig the highlight. Notable mentions go to heavy-hitting monthly night Bassworx, ultra indie-punk shindig Bad House Party and the long running techno throwdown, Warped.
Worst named club night of the year
Anything with the words VIP/models/bottles/VVIP/ Exclusive/Made In Chelsea in it.
Tech of the year
For producers, Ableton 9 was a next level purchase, for headphones, the Beats by Dre Mixrs took the brand to a whole new level and for DJs, the Pioneer range of all-inone mixers peaked with the eargasmic DDJ-SX.
Set of the year
Heads down and hands up for Moodymann’s glorious night-ending set at our We Are 9 celebration. A true funk soul brother, with some killer selections.
Back-handed comment of the year
Never short of a soundbite or 3, Noel Gallagher essentially told the Sandance crowd back in March that he was only taking the Dubai gig to put his daughter through private school.
Best live gig of the year
Hands down, it was Chic. If there’s a better collection of musicians in the world, we’ve yet to hear it. They were so good they even made Jamiroquai look flat by comparison. We couldn’t let the Prodigy’s righteous show at a rejuvenated Creamfields slide by without a mention. Still one of the most important electronic acts in the world, with a live show to match. And finally, hip hop fans had it gooooood at our We Are 9 show, as Cypress Hill demonstrated that they’ve very much still got it when it comes to live shows.
Albums
of the year
Disclosure – Settle Mount Kimbie – Cold Spring Faultless Youth Bonobo – The North Borders Major Lazer – Free The Universe James Blake – Overgrown Rudimental – Home Boards of Canada – Tomorrow’s Harvest My Bloody Valentine – m b v
Kanye West – Yeezus Foals – Holy Fire David Bowie – The Next Day Arctic Monkeys – AM Haim – Days Are Gone Lorde – Pure Heroine Earl Sweatshirt – Doris Quasimoto – Yessir Whatever
Top
5 tracks Miriam Sweeney
Arcade Fire, ‘Reflektor’ The Canadian indie heroes returned after a three year break, with this 7 min epic, with hypnotic percussion and backing vocals from Bowie. Vance Joy, ‘Riptide’ An infectious, floaty pop song from the Melbourne native, the strained, searching vocals contrasts nicely with the upbeat ukulele hook. Artic monkeys, ‘Why Do You Only Call Me When You’re High?’ Another ode to Alexa, this time with a funk and soul vibe. Proof, if it were needed, that Alex Turner’s inventive leanings are paying off. The Courteeners, ‘Are You In Love With a notion?’ Liam Fray observes the aspirations of the jaded twenty-something, with a clear nod to those other Northern favourites, Pulp. Two Door Cinema Club, ‘Changing of the seasons’ Passive aggressive lyrics and name calling are laid over jerking synthesizers and a heavy. beat,and it works. The catchiest break up of 2013!
ARTY GUIDE
ONTHE THE RADAR ON RADAR
February 6 & 7 – Tracy Morgan, du Forum, Yas Island
January 31 Dixon, Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE
February 8 – Bob Marley Birthday Bash, Reggae Beachfest, XL Beach Club
February 1 – Breakthrough DJ Competition winners, 360
February 14 Redfest feat. The Lumineers, Media City
February 20 Dubai Jazz Festival feat. Jamie Cullum, Festival City
March 6 Eric Clapton, Media City
February 27 Paul Van Dyk, Zero Gravity
March 21 Herbie Hancock, Abu Dhabi
For a full list of what’s on, please head to infusion.ae. Please submit your listings to andy@infusion.ae for possible inclusion.
PARTY GUIDE
February 21 Rolling Stones, du Arena
ARTY GUIDE
Sunday 12 Magnum Sundays, Boudoir
Hard-hitting urban DJ line up of Brooklyn, Emtee and Shero deliver the hip hop and RnB cuts. 10pm-3am. Weekly.
Occupy Sundays, Cavalli
Brand new Sunday night, where you have to gain guestlist to the event via the occupysundays.com website. 9pm-late.
Monday 13 Club Classics, Boudoir
All the classic house and electro cuts courtesy of DJ Destroyer. 10pm-3am.
Hip hop Mondays, Cirque Le Soir
Bustling early-week party with excellent hip hop vibes from start to finish courtesy of DJ Bliss. 10.30pm-3am.
Industry Night, XL Beach Club
50% discount for industry people, with free entry for couples and ladies all night. 7pm-3am.
Manic Mondays, Zinc
Greg Stainer and Andy Swift play old and new skool anthems, with a 10pmmidnight happy hour. 10pm3am, ladies and couples free. Weekly.
Tuesday 14 B:Lush, Media One
4 free drinks for ladies, with Da Sendri dropping funk, soul, disco and house. 7-10pm, free.
Barasti
Popular ladies night, with a Dhs50 entrance fee getting you free flowing bubbly all night. 6pm-late, Dhs50.
En Vogue, Armani Prive
Darko De Jan takes control of this high class ladies night, with complimentary mojitos until 1am for ladies. 10pm-3am.
Girls Don’t Q, Q43, Media One Hotel
3 free drinks for ladies at this brand new, gorgeous-looking Media City venue. 6pm-1am.
Pop Your Cherry, Cirque Le Soir
More mid-week funkiness at the popular circus-themed club. 10.30pm-3am.
Wednesday 15 Punchline Comedy Tour, Girders Garden, Ocean View Hotel
UK comics Alex Boardman, Johnny Awsum and Phil Butler kick star 2014 with some well timed comedy. 9pm, Dhs150.
Thursday 16 Abri & The Funk Radius, Pizza Express JLT
Abri and the extremely funky Funk Radius drop funk, soul, hip hop and rock covers and originals at this bustling Thursday night joint. 9pm, weekly.
The Act, Shangri La
Live acts, mixed up music and tasty Peruvian food at this very popular new club. 8pm-3am, repeated Sunday.
Analog Room, Q Underground
All things electronic, at this cult weekly Thursday night spot. 9pm-3am, Dhs75. Weekly.
Boudoir
Conan Manchester, Loca
Foot-tapping funk, soul and rock and roll from Conan at one of our favourite bars in town. Weekly Thursday and Friday.
Fashionista, Donatello Lounge
Stu Laurie drops a funky, deep house soundtrack at this fashionable start to the weekend. 8pm-late. Weekly.
Fashion Café
High end design, cocktails and food at this newly launched venue. 6pm-late.
A brand new concept club involving live music, Arabicaccented food and lots of flowers. 11-3am, repeated Friday.
Formative, Chameleon Zouk Singapore’s resident DJ Formative drops a progressive house set at this Tecom spot. 9pm-3am.
Identity, N’Dulge
Hip hop and house across the main room and terrace from Eric Francis and friends. 9pm-3am, ladies free before 11pm, Dhs100.
Jamrock, Sublime
Calypso, dub, reggae and urban from Sir Taz and DJ Crown Prince. 10pm-3am, ladies free before midnight, weekly.
Laughter Factory, Movenpick JBR
Dubai regulars Paul Sinha, Justin Moorhouse and Mike Gunn make the funnies at this long-running night. 9pm, Dhs140
Sintillate, Movida
The Sheikh Zayed Rd hotspot teams up with global brand Sintillate for a funky house night out. 11pm-3am. Weekly.
Vintage, Societe Dubai
80s, 90s and 00s at this newly launched alternative venue, with tables for 4 starting from Dhs1100.
PARTY GUIDE
Free shots for ladies until 1am, and commercial RnB and house. 10pm-3am. Weekly.
Fleurs feat. Georges Al Rassi, Radisson Royal Sheikh Zayed Road
ARTY GUIDE
We Are One, 2Liv Palm Sofitel
The 10,000 square foot, 3 level club with an impressive LED light set up plays urban and Top 40. 10pm-3am. Weekly, Thursday and Friday.
Friday 17 Audio tonic, 360
JC, Vas Floyd and Mr Mr do the deep house honours upstairs, with Nasr headlining Below. 4pm-3am, free.
Dany Neville, Rone Jaxx and Soulninja.
Hush, Vanity
Old school hip hop and RnB with Mo Muscles, Kaboo, Shef Codes and Mo Muscles on rotation. Weekly.
Freaks and Beats, Cirque Le Soir
Nick Tohme heads up this weekly night, where entertainment is at the fore. 10pm-3am. Weekly.
Amr Diab, World Trade Centre
Arab music legend Diab, 3 time winner of the World Music Award, is joined by Jabal on support. 7pm, tickets from Dhs195.
Blue Marlin Ibiza feat. Betoko
More deep house and tech house from the Ibiza franchise, with Mexican DJ Betoko headlining. 11am-11pm, reservation@ bluemarlinibiza-uae.com
#FFriday, Movida
CafĂŠ Mambo, Azure Bleu, Meydan Beach
Laughter Factory, Movenpick JBR
The Ibiza brand take their world tour through Dubai, with CafĂŠ Mambo resident and Dubai DJ Matthew Charles joined by Stereo Punx and DJ Dan. 5pm-1am.
Ego Urban Lounge, Boutique 7 Hotel, Tecom
Wall-to-wall urban tunes 6 nights a week, with a strong roster of residents including
Residents Nick Waters and Mitchell are joined by guests at this high end Sheikh Zayed Road club. 11pm3am. Weekly.
Dubai regulars Paul Sinha, Justin Moorhouse and Mike Gunn make the funnies at this long-running night. 9pm, Dhs140
Friday Pool Party, XL Beach Club
An all day pool party with everything from deep house to party starting electro on the playlist. 1pm-3am, Dhs150 on the door.
House of Afrika, Dek on 8
More Afro-tech at this hugely popular weekly house night. 4pm-3am, free.
Massive Urban Fridays, Sensation
Shef Codes and friends hold it down with urban tunes all night. 10.30p-3am, strict dress code no trainers or flip flops. Weekly.
INFUSION PICK!
Sunny Vibe Up, Dusk Terrace, Radisson Blu Media City
Rodney P brings the vibes, and DJ Shepdog the rhythms as the popular poolside venue kicks off its 2014 series. 2pm-late, Dhs90 in advance, Dhs210 on the door.
No.1 Fridays, N’Dulge
Urban, hip hop, dubstep and EDM from this popular longrunning night. 10pm-3am, ladies free before 11pm, Dhs100 after. Weekly.
Mixtape Rewind, Emirates Golf Course
Rock Armageddon, Ratsky, Holiday Inn Bur Dubai
Thank God I’m a VIP, VIP Room
Ministry of Sound signings Fear of Dawn are on soundtrack duties, no doubt dropping their big hit ‘Gangas.’ 10pm-late.
Saturday 18
Heavy metal and rock all night long, with 7 bands playing live for only Dhs50 entry. 8pm-12pm.
411, People By Crystal
Soap feat. Bass Jackers, People By Crystal
Balearic, Dek on 8
‘Beat Cut’ and ‘Mush Mush’ producers and Rihanna and Moby remixers, Bassjackers, drop an EDM set at Crystal. 10pm-3am.
All things urban at this UV themed party. 10pm-3am. Weekly. All day, early evening party, with Balearic classics on rotation, with brunch 2-6pm, and happy hour 5-8pm. 2pm-10pm, Dhs240 for brunch. Weekly.
PARTY GUIDE
Boney M, Dr Alban, Snap!, Vengaboys and more play live at this celebration of 90s classics. 6pm, Dhs295 in advance.
ARTY GUIDE
Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE Saturday Brunch Wind down your weekend with live cooking stations and free flowing Spanish sangria. Weekly. 1pm-5.30pm, Dhs240285, reservation@ bluemarlinibiza-uae.com
Destination, Zinc
UK Garage, Funky house and urban with Richie D and Mister Ash. 10pm-3am. Weekly.
Laughter Factory, Els Club, Dubai Sports City
Dubai regulars Paul Sinha, Justin Moorhouse and Mike Gunn make the funnies at this long-running night. 9pm, Dhs140
Homegrown, 360
Charl Chaka and Conan Liquid drop the deep house science, closing the weekend out in style. 4pm-3am, free.
Wednesday 22 Laughter Factory, Zinc
Dubai regulars Paul Sinha, Justin Moorhouse and Mike Gunn make the funnies at this long-running night. 9pm, Dhs140
Thursday 23 Laughter Factory, Movenpick JBR
Dubai regulars Paul Sinha, Justin Moorhouse and Mike Gunn make the funnies at this long-running night. 9pm, Dhs140
Texas, Irish Village
Indie and pop from the popular Scottish band behind big hits like ‘Black Eyed Boy’ and ‘I Don’t Want A Lover.’ 7pm, Dhs175.
INFUSION PICK!
The Market of Everything, The Archive
An all-day market selling vintage clothing, hand made crafts, art and design, books, magazines, music and more. 10am-6pm.
Friday 24 audio tonic, 360
The residents take control of this weekly deep disco and house party. 4pm-3am, free.
Azure Bleu feat. Sam Devine, Meydan Beach Club
Ibiza tech house beats in the shape of Ushuaia’s resident DJ Sam Devine. 5pm-1am.
INFUSION PICK!
House of Afrika, Dek on 8
Another weekly dose of Afrotech vibes with DJs Charl Chaka, Nthayi, Just Lance, Afroboogie and more on rotation. 4pm-3am, free.
Bassworx, Old Skool Party
Old skool garage, DnB and hip hop vibes from the monthly bass party with guest DJs Rishi and Mach 4 joining resident DJ and promoter Woodle. 9.30pm3am, Dhs30 including 1 free drink.
Pukka Up, Movida
The larger than life Ibiza brand take over Movida as part of their monthly parties. 11pm-3am. Weekly.
Dietz is a German techno DJ who’s released on Saved Records and Cadenza. 11am-11pm, reservation@ bluemarlinibiza-uae.com
Electric Days, Tamanya Terrace, Radisson Blu, Media City
Australian DJ Gabby and London DJ Lauren Lo Sung play this hugely popular rooftop party. 5pm-1am, Dhs100.
Thank God I’m a VIP, VIP Room
Patrick Le Funk – excellent name, btw – is one of Fedde La Grand’s DJ buddies and mines a similar vein of electro funked house. 10pm-late.
Saturday 25 Social, 360
Live music at sunset followed by some of the city’s best house DJs until the early hours. 5pm-3am, free.
PARTY GUIDE
Blue Marlin Ibiza feat. Robert Dietz
WHAT WE DID, 2013
AFRIKA BAMBAATAA
Look AND
LISTEN Music be the food of love, so read on...
> Album Reviews > DJ Booth > Soundstage > DJ Top 10
Look and Listen
Album Reviews... Andy Buchan – Sunspots EP (Infusion Records) Nu-Disco/House
I infusion.ae
It seems fitting that one of the first DJs to embrace nu-disco in the region has just released his second nu-disco EP. And while the genre has become increasingly poppy in recent years, the Sunspots EP harks back to a more classic sound, clearly influenced by the likes of DFA Records and Chicken Lips, with a touch of cosmic of disco scattered throughtout. ‘Sunspots’ leads off with chuggy beats, pumping pads and a glistening, escalating string section, leading to a hands in the air drop, which is no mean feat considering the tracks weighs in at 108BPM. As the title suggests, it’s got sunset – or sunrise, for the more ambitious – written all over it. ‘Butterfly’ is the more pitched up of the two at 114BPM, with mean streets beats, 80s RECORDS 010 synths and a Chic-ish guitar riff that holds it all together. The extended breakdown on both tracks really allows the elements to breathe and flourish, and with both tracks hitting the 8 minute mark, they’re tailor made for nu-disco and house warm ups.
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Look and Listen
Dam-Funk & Snoop - 7 Days of Funk (Stones Throw) Funk, Hip Hop
I Stonesthrow.com
I’ve been a fan of LA based Dam-Funk for around 5 years, he’s the shining light of ‘modern funk’, performs and DJs around the world and is one seriously cool cat. As legend goes, Snoop MC’d over Dam’s beats at a gig, the pair hit it off and came together to explore their love of 80s funk and boogie with ‘7 Days of Funk’. This is one catchy album, perfect to drive to, great to party to and it’s just downright ‘cool’ for all the right reasons. ‘High Wit Me’ shows the pair at their creative best, but ‘Hit Da Pavement’ funks the hardest. It’s barely left my speakers since launching and the only downside is it leaves you begging for a few tracks more. Buy it now, and get your funk on. – GarethisOnit
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EVERY1ST & 3RD SATURDAY OFTHEMONTH CHARL CHAKA I CONAN LIQUID – 18TH JAN BREAKTHROUGH DJS LOOSE GOOSE, ELAOUAD & SHY AYNETCHI – 1ST FEB DOORS OPEN 6PM–3AM WITH UPSATAIRS CLOSING AT 2AM I 360°, JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL I FREE ENTRANCE I STRICTLY 21+ LOCAL DRESSES NOT ALLOWED I ID REQUIRED I DRESS CODE : SMART CASUAL, NO FLIP FLOPS ALLOWED TABLE BOOKINGS : 056 682 6617 I INFO@INFUSION.AE I MORE INFO : WWW.INFUSION.AE TWITTER.COM/INFUSIONMAG l TWITTER.COM/360DUBAI
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Look and Listen
Tim Hassall – Gallatin Indie/Rock/Country
For more Album Reviews go to www.infusion.ae
I www.timhassall.com
Where you’re from, your roots, make a difference. Take, for instance, Tim Hassall. If this guitar toting, country-meetsindie troubadour had been born in the American South, or indeed in the UK, you’d imagine other people would be playing his music. As it is, he’s one of our most talented musicians in the UAE, and makes his day to day living playing covers, sneaking his own in during the sets. Which is a real shame, as on Gallatin, he’s realised his potential with his strongest album to date. The album starts off strongly, with the ultra-poppy ‘Chasing Down A Dream’ and its radio-friendly hooks, accentuated strings and guitar solo, all guaranteed to get your cowboy boots toetapping. It’s quickly followed by the White Stripes aping ‘You Bring Me Down,’ all heavy blues licks, devil-lead lyrics and ‘doowah’ backing vocals. It is, in short, ace. From there, the countrified ‘Travelling Song,’ ‘Polaroid Memories’ – which could be a Bright Eyes out-take it’s so whimsical – and ‘Out of Touch,’ an old Hassall classic finally given a release, are the highlights. But it feels mean spirited to pick favourites when a homegrown album is this strong. Go buy it now from Virgin, and help get Tim Hassall the recognition he deserves.
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DJ Booth: Amy Wells
Electric Days has made a big impact in 2013, in part thanks to the skillful tech-house warm ups of resident Amy Wells‌
One thing you might not know about me is… I’m a big softy. My worst ever job was… Cleaning someone else’s house. My favorite ever record is... On repeat right now ‘Static’ by Planet Funk. DJing is much like... Riding a bike? Dubai’s clubbing scene is... Hit and miss. I’m really proud of... My 2013 goals/achievements, DJing was one of them. What track could you drop in every set? Any Osunlade track is always a safe and probably best bet! I can’t live without... My Mackbook Pro and my old school Blackberry. My biggest DJ achievement to date is... Electric Days and BIG thank you to Rima Rached and Dania Ismail, the ladies behind the curtains who also gave me a big kick up the ass! Pushing and giving me the opportunity to do my thing every Electric Days. What is your guiltiest pleasure? For others it’s usually chocolate? Me...jumping on a plane to anywhere when I can. If you could DJ in any decade which would it be... The early 40s, the transition of the Jazz/hippie/blues era. That would be an interesting experiment. If I could go back-to-back with any other DJ it would be... Ellen Allien, I can’t wait for the chance to support her at Electric Days. I’m not a politician but… I really think all politicians should quit their day job and try DJing for a day? It might make this world a better place. Just saying. soundcloud.com/amywells-tm www.facebook.com/clubbeats
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TOP TRACKS OF
Woodle Bassworx, Casa Latina soundcloud.com/ woodle
DC Breaks - SWAG Chris.SU ft. Mira - Together In The Night Left Boy - Get It Right (Rusko Remix) Example - All The Wrong Places (Calyx & Teebee Remix) Rebel MC & Top Cat - Champion DJ (Serial Killaz VIP Remix) Specimen A ft. Suffice - Rock Star Neosignal - Planet Online (Culprate Remix) ShockOne ft. Phetsta & Metrik - True Believer Noisia & Evol Intent - The Liquid S.P.Y ft. Diane Charlemagne - Hammer In My Heart
Samuel Lamont Roberto’s (Dubai) soundcloud.com/ samuel-lamont
Henry Saiz - Love Mythology (Original) HVOB - Always Like This (Oliver Koletzki Remix) Downtown Party Network - Space Me Out (Mario Basanov Remix) BANKS - Warm Water (Original) Royksopp - Running To The Sea (Pachanga Boys) Home Video - Every Love That Ever Was (Sasha Rmx) Marcus Worgull & Peter Pardeike - Lenoix (Original) Daughter - Get Lucky (Original Cover) DJ Yellow, Flowers & Sea Creatures - No One Gets Left Behind (Konstantin Sibold Remix) Disclosure - Help Me Lose My Mind ft London Grammar (Original)
Gary Howard Left Bank - Madinat Jumeirah
Spiritchaser Ft. Emily Cook - These Tears (Dub Mix) Inner City - Good Life (Matt Smallwood Remix) Joey Negro, Giom, Kadjita Karma - Again (Giom Mix) Kraak & Smaak Ft, Lex Express - Hold Back The Love (Lovebirds Remix) Set Mo & Erin Marshall - Keep On (Yogi RSR Boogie) Dimitri From Stoke On Trent - I Wanna Be Your Lobster Raxon - Be Right There (Original Mix) Timmy Vegas Ft. Kerry Davis - Get Yourself Together (Tim’s B’ham Disco Auth Mix) Manjit Ft. Bossjack - Everybody, Everywhere (Original) Akabu & Alex Mills - Everybody Wants Something (Joey Negro Strip Mix)
To submit your Top 10, send in the above format to andy@infusion.ae
Smokingroove Nobu
DJ Ronzi Fuego, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
Smokingroove - I Don’t Wanna Leave Here Moodymanc ‘Staying power’ mix Blondish ft. Thomas Gandey - Voyeur (Jay Shepheard mix) DJ Sneak - The Party Of All Alejandro Mosso - Aconcagua Smokingroove - That Beautiful Dark Place EP Foremost Poets - Reasons to be dismal (Dixon’s mix) Tripmastaz - 37th Chamber Rodriguez Jnr - Junction Carl Cox - Family Guy (Loco Dice Remix) Apollonia - Trinidad Chris Malinchak - Fuego (Original Mix) Deep Hertz - Heart Beatz (Original Mix) Adriatique - Mordern Talking (Original Mix) Hobo - Incise (Original Mix) Danny Murphy, Pete Rios - Motorcycle (Original Mix) Raxon - Nightwalker (Original Mix) Giman, Eko - Soleil (Original Mix) Elekfantz - Diggin’ On You (Original Mix) Luciano C - Birds (Original Mix) Kolombo - Play Ur Chick! (Original Mix)
James Blake - Retrograde Frank Ocean - Sweet Life Omar Souleyman - Wenu Wenu Missy Elliot - Sock It To Me (Kaytranada Refix) Pusha T - Numbers On The Board Osunlade - Dionne Detroit Swindle - The Break DJ Nori - Happy Sunday (Mauric Fulton Remix) Max Graef & Andy Hart - Jungle Thundercat - Oh Sheit It’s X Elaouad soundcloud.com/ elaouad To submit your Top 10, send in the above format to andy@infusion.ae
Looking
CLOSER Opinions, thoughts and gibberish...
> Weird News > Eat, Sleep, Rave Repeat > Cool Test > In Focus > Movies > Angry Monkey
Looking Closer
Weird News... Taxing times
Tax might be a novel idea to us sand dwellers, but it has inspired one of our recent favourite stories after a builder claimed to officials in the UK that he couldn’t return his tax form as he was too upset grieving over his dead goldfish. Predictably, HM Revenue called the excuse ‘bizarre and flimsy’. HMRC’s head of personal tax, Ruth Owen, said: “There will always be unforeseen events that mean a taxpayer could not file their tax return on time. However, your pet goldfish passing away isn’t one of them.” Also mentioned were a farmer recovering from a run-in with a cow and a woman too stunned after seeing a volcanic eruption on the TV news to concentrate on anything else.
WEIRD BITE Doctors in China have saved a man’s severed hand by grafting it onto his ankle. Xiao Wei lost his right hand in an accident at work, but could not have it reattached to his arm immediately. Instead the hand was kept alive by stitching it to Xiao’s left ankle, enabling him to borrow a blood supply from arteries in his leg.
GOOD JOB
Good news for those that like to take a more relaxed approach to the jobs market. Dutchman Niek Gooren was flooded with more than 50 job offers after creating a website showing him lying on a sofa drinking beer and eating crisps in his pants. “As you read this, Niek is alone and jobless,” says the website, along with an explanation that he’d be cheaper to employ because he doesn’t take milk or sugar in his coffee. A graph shows how a company’s creativity and sex appeal will be transformed by bringing him on board. The unusual tactic has now landed Mr Gooren a job, and a new version of his website shows him lounging on an office chair with a bottle of bubbly and the caption “As you read this, Niek is washing down his crisps with champagne.”
eat sleep rave repeat The Act
The Freaks Come Out The latest in our new series of food reviews finds our hungry reporter Stephen Day taking the blue pill and heading down the rabbit’s hole to discover The Act
Situated up on the 42nd floor of the Shangri-La Hotel sits The Act, not that you would know it as a simple door with a ‘no photography’ sign is all that separates you from being transported from Dubai into a wonderful mock baroque style theatre. Once you enter you know you are in for something a little different. Our hostess Itziar warmly greets us, shows to our table and offers us a drink, the perfect start in anyone’s book. There is a tendency for couples to sometimes feel pushed out onto a small table for 2 or sometimes all sat in one area but here everyone seems well catered for and the balance of group and smaller tables gives the space a sense of purpose and inclusion which creates a great atmosphere as the night goes on. At the end of the room is a large balcony containing more tables and booths all overlooking a stage at the other and towards the back of the room is the bar area with ‘choose your poison’ resplendent in Broadway lights above it. The theatrically dressed staff buzz around but we never felt hurried or watched at any point and there was definitely wasn’t an air of pretention that you can sometime feel in certain Dubai establishments, everyone looked like they were having fun and wanted you to as well.
So onto the real reason to come here, the food. Head Chef Roberto Segura hails from Lima and previously cooked at the pan Latin Torro Torro in GH Tower 2 but The Act gives him the ability to showcase the full range of Peruvian Cuisine. If your idea of Peruvian food is the marmalade sandwiches Paddington bear ate then prepare to be pleasantly surprised. We started with 3 cold dishes, each distinctly different but all easy to share and plentiful in quantity. A succulent lightly seared Tuna with a vibrant red fruity sauce, a beautifully fresh Tuna Ceviche and a wonderful marinated Aubergine Carpaccio. All 3 dishes
were so light and balanced perfectly; I especially liked the Aubergine (I refuse to call it Eggplant) with its delicate flesh and nutty crunch. This was followed by 2 smaller meat dishes of Garlic Lamb chops, anticuchos de lomo (beef) skewers accompanied by potato crockets filled with minced beef. We were never asked how we wanted the meat cooked so I was a little nervous it would be on the wrong side of medium rare but I shouldn’t have worried, all the meat was masterfully prepared. As we pushed our cutlery together the lights dropped and the show began. Not wishing to spoil it for anyone all I will say is the compere for the evening, wig and tache wearing Johnny Fayva, a kind of vaudevillian Vegas lounge singer, grabbed the night by the hand and led us through a merry dance
of song, jokes, acrobatics, beatboxing and laughter, each act introduced in his inimitable style with an occasional knowing nod to the audience. I had noticed a few interesting dishes on the menu like grilled Spanish Octopus or a 12hr Confit Lamb but we went with a perfectly cooked large strip loin with a punchy chimichurri sauce and Truffled green and white Asparagus as a side. Its price might be on the high side but reasonable when split between 2 and let’s not forget the great entertainment along side it. One word of warning: The Act is probably
not the best place to take a pure vegetarian as they are catered for but fish and meat is the order of the day. Finally came desert: a macerated Strawberry Cheesecake and a Tres Leches Casero, or 3 Milk Cake if your Spanish is a bit scrappy. The cheesecake was light and rich but for me the 3 Milk Cake was heavenly, soft, moist, and creamy. I’m a fan of English milk based puddings so this was everything I love in a desert and cake. We finally kick back, full to the brim with a cheeky Pisco Sour to fully round the night off, sharp, sweet but with a great little bite to it, it’s like Latin America in a glass. It’s hard to really encapsulate The Act in a single line as its spectacle is as different and interesting as Dubai has seen, but for me if you take away the performers, the giant twisted rabbit (yes you read that right) and the scary tall clown, the star of the show is undoubtedly the food and one I will be returning for in the future. The Act, Shangri La, 9.30pm-3am, Thursday and Sunday only. reservations@ theactdubai.com, theactdubai.com
Cool
We put the Punchline Comedy Club comedians, Jonny Awsum and Phil Butler and through our rigorous Cool Test to see who’d come out gleaming the other side…
PHIL BUTLER
The funniest word is…
JONNY AWSUM
Bumfuzz, (to confuse or to Work because it’s my job to fluster). make people laugh. The best heckle I’ve heard is…
Jim Tavaré: “I’m a schizophrenic...” Heckler: “Well why don’t you both f*** off?”
A jet flying over the venue I was in at this years Edinburgh Festival (it was part of the military tattoo!).
The question I get asked the most is… "I'm mad I am, I'm gonna end Is that your real name? (and I up in one of your routines, say no it’s Jonathan). aren't I?" Answer - "NO". My biggest claim to fame is… I was the first comedian to It’s shiny, whistles and looks perform on the front line in great in a hat. Afghanistan. Have you ever used your name or fame to get out of I once had to perform a magical escape trick at the Not trouble, but I did come side of the road, to explain to off stage the other day and the police the reason why I get taken for a spin in a had rope, scissors and heavy dudes speedboat! (the gig duty tape in my car. I got was on a floating cafe). away with it. Phew! If only they knew.
PHIL
Phil Butler VS Jonny Awsum
JONNY
Have you ever injured yourself at work? I got smacked in the face with an inflatable bat and the sharp seam caught me Yes, I once drank half a pint in the eye and damaged of fairy liquid for a bet whilst my cornea. For a while I working on a bar (and put didn’t think that I’d be able myself in hospital). to go in front of a spotlight again, as any light was excruciatingly painful. It’s not big and clever but… I love to fart and blame one I have two tattoos and a third of my dogs being designed as we speak. Your answer to everything is…
Try and have fun. Things are so much easier if you just try Turn it up to 11. to enjoy what you’re doing.
What’s the best insult you could give each other?
You guys are to stand up, what Stephen Hawking is to Sorry who are they? standing up. The verdict: Mabrook to Phil Butler, a very funny funny man. - Jan 15 Girders Garden at Oasis Beach Hotel Dubai on Wednesday. - Jan 16 Jumeirah Creekside Hotel - Jan 17 Sharjah Rugby Club - 9pm,
Dhs150
A coming power on the UAE’s fashion scene, Natalie Morrison ditched the high-stress world of law to set up her own fashion label SHIFT, led by her high end clothes swap events
Where do you get a lot of your clothes from, any Dubai gems? I am not a fan of shopping malls, I don’t enjoy wandering around aimlessly for hours (and used to be very time poor). I prefer personalised shopping experiences from independent boutique stores. I like to rummage for unique pieces in boutiques or vintage shops, particularly when I travel. It was some of these factors that inspired my new business, SHIFT Fashion, where pre-loved quality fashion items can be exchanged. We place an emphasis on creating a professional, fun and stylish way to shop with personalised elements, including bespoke styling and access to up and coming regional designers. Do you have any fashion inspirations, or role models? I’m not a celebrity fashion follower or trend obsessed shopper. I’m inspired by fashion periods like the 20s, I love simple flapper dresses. I think it’s important to understand your own body shape and what suits you individually, as Coco Chanel said “fashion fades, only style remains”. You’re a lawyer turned entrepreneur – can you enjoy your fashion a bit more now it’s not all suits and skirts? Ha ha, yes. I now have an excuse to go out and buy more casual clothes, and take advantage of my new business concept to exchange my pre-loved corporate work wardrobe. What have been your biggest fashion disasters? I know there has been a 90s fashion revival, but I just don’t think the combined outfit of leotards, under lumberjack shirts paired with leggings and topped up with cherry coloured DM boots really allowed me to radiate. And if your house was burning down, what item of clothing would you rescue? My mother’s vintage wedding suit. It’s a gorgeous vintage Pierre Cardin grey pencil skirt suit with peplum jacket. The tailoring, fabric and fit are incredible. It obviously carries a story too. I love clothes that can tell a story. instagram @shiftfashion www.shiftfashion.com
MOVIE Lone Survivor Gritty, and tear jerking war/spy film based on the failed 2005 mission Red Wings in Afghanistan, when four members of the Seal Team 10 were charged with the near impossible task of killing Taliban leader Ahmad Shahd. Classification: PG-15 Director: Peter Berg Starring: Mark Wahlberg, Emile Hirsch
Jack Ryan – Shadow Recruit
Older readers will remember Jack Ryan, the young CIA analyst originally played by Harrison Ford, as his character is re-incarnated for another generation with Chris Pine battling the Russians who are looking to bring down the US economy. Classification: PG 13 Director: Kenneth Brannagh Starring: Chris Pine, Kevin Costner, Keira Knightley
PREVIEWS Puncture
A David and Goliath law drama about a drug-addicted lawyer (Chris Evans) who takes on a health supply corporation while battling his own personal demons. Classification: PG 15 Director: Mark and Adam Kassen Starring: Chris Evans, Michael Biehn
Dallas Buyers Club The story of Texas electrician Ron Woodroof and his battle with the medical establishment and pharmaceutical companies after being diagnosed as HIV-positive in 1986, and his search for alternative treatments that helped established a way in which fellow HIV-positive people could join for access to his supplies. Classification: PG 15 Director: Jean-Marc Vallee Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Jennifer Garner, Jared Leto, Dallas Roberts
Disclaimer: Film release schedules are subject to change, please check reelcinemas.ae, grandcinemas.com and voxcinemas.com for full schedules.
JANUARY 23
JANUARY 23
Despite the truly shocking regional output – Dubai One made Wayne’s World look professional with their Expo 2020 coverage – TV is the main media medium in our world. It connects billions, it entertains, it educates (sometimes) and it’s where you get to see the Devil (Simon Cowell) in action on Flop Idol or Ex Factor or whatever. But, DJing does not work on TV. The Boiler Room kinda works, but only so that you can point and laugh at all the cool hipsters giving some ground and pound elbows to get to the front, but at least it’s an hour long showcase, so the DJ’s journey can be truly felt. But DJing on a rickety platform that’s miraculously passed health and safety standards, and posing like you’re the resurrection as you drop one pre-mixed mix, in front of a TV crowd baying like clubbed seals, really isn’t the one. If Fatboy Slim can’t make DJing look good on TV at the Olympics, what chance have you got on Arabs Got Talent?
Monkey Out...
The Angry Monkeys’ views are his own, and don’t necessarily reflect the views of Infusion Magazine.
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