Issue 10 - Platform Online

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Also this issue:
Student Volunteering Week Review
Check out the photos on page 6
Competitions
See page 11 for details
Platform is an independent publication and any
views expressed herein are not necessarily those
of the editor or of The Nottingham Trent Students
Union and its officers. Companies advertised
in Platform are not necessarly endorsed by
Nottingham Trent Students Union. No part of this
publication may be reproduced without the prior
permission of the editor.
Letters should be addressed to:
Platform, Byron House, Shakespeare Street,
Nottingham, NG1 4GH.
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (0115) 848 6280
To advertise with us please contact
Simon Rhodes – (0115) 848 6244
Platform Team…
Part-time Editor: Annabel Woollen - (0115) 848 6280
Designer: Stephanie Combs - (0115) 848 6211
News Editor: Position Vacant
The Bubble Editor: Rachel White
[email protected]
Music Editor: Luke Eldridge
[email protected]
Film Editor: Kerry Edwards
[email protected]
Arts Editor: Laura Johnstone
[email protected]
Fashion Editor: Sally Torode
[email protected]
Health/Sex Editor: Position Vacant
Sports Editor: Position Vacant
To contact the relevant sub, please either email
them directly or email [email protected]
and put the relevant section in the subject area.
Thanks to Polar Group Limited
www.polargroup.co.uk
This Issue
04
06
Events Calendar
News Feature
Student Volunteering
Week 2006: Junction’s
accomplishments
09
13
21
Film Reviews
24 Arts Reviews
26 Fashion
A Mouret is a Wonderful Thing
The Bubble
New Comedy Improv
Club, Stride timetable
28
Student Health Special 31 Sports
Student Health Promotion Week 2006
17
18 Music Reviews
Reflections
Procrastination
Champions League
Sessions
Nine Black Alps
@ Rock City
Editorial
Hi guys, just to confuse you
that little bit more I have gone
back to editing your magazine
for this edition. Due to there
being no Platform Editor, we
as an Exec have been filling the role to the best we
can.
After the buzz and excitement of elections, we have
a bumper packed edition for your perusal. Our cover
story is on Student Health Promotion Week where we
have various articles written by a number of students
on all different courses conveying. Our news feature is
a review on all that occurred throughout Student Volunteering Week and we have a mix of this fortnight’s
Stride timetables, a new University Comedy Improv
Club, and a plethora of competitions on offer for you in
The Bubble.
along with a Scarlett Johansson biography. Topshop
is on review in our fashion section, along with another
fashion dilemma solved, and trends to keep an eye out
for. All Quiet on the Western Front is reviewed this edition in our Arts section, and there is an article about
overcoming procrastination in our Reflections pages.
As you can see, we have another jam packed edition
for you and again, we are always looking for new writers, photographers, etc. - basically anything you want to
get involved in regarding Platform. If you want to come
in to have a chat about getting involved, then just pop
into the Exec office, situated on the first floor of Byron
House, or alternatively we are available via phone
(0115 848 6280) or email: [email protected].
Thanks a lot and enjoy your read!
Sessions contains a review of Nine Black Apes at Rock
City, and a good mix of album reviews. In our film section, we have the usual low-down on recent releases
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 3
NTSU Events Calendar
Rag: Marie Curie Yellow Raid &
Social, Nottingham, all day
Varsity Sports: Rugby League
@ Nottingham RFC, 2nds match
- 5.00pm, 1sts match - 7.00pm
Student Health Promotion
Week; Drink Spiking stall @
Clifton in George Elliot, 10am
- 4pm; Healthy Eating stall @
City, 10am - 2pm
Kinki Pre Bar @ 8pm (FREE)
Kinki Kowkids @ 9.30pm (£2.50
ADV / £3.50 Door)
For more info:
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
www.ntu.ac.uk/drinkthink
www.areyougettingenough.me.uk
NTSU Events Calendar
Stride: Business Motivation
Training, Dryden 239, 4.00
- 6.00pm
Student Health Promotion
Week; Drink Spiking stall @
City in Boots Library, 10am
- 4pm; Healthy Eating stall @
Clifton in main canteen, 10am
- 2pm
Stride: Project Management
Training, Chaucer 547, 1:30
- 3:30pm
DV8 Pre Bar @ 8pm - FREE The Tone Club @ 9pm (£4 Adv Rag: Kidscan Proper Northern MegaB4 9pm (then £2.50 ADV / £3 [£3 NUS] / £4.50 Door [£3.50 raid, Newcastle, all day
NUS])
Climax @ 9pm (FREE B4 10pm
Door)
Varsity Sports: Basketball
@ University of Nottingham
Sports Centre
Flirt! @ 9pm (£3 entry / ADV
Brainspotting @ Clifton
tickets available from bar / £2
- Weekly quiz @ 8pm (£2 per from www.sutickets.com
team)
Open Mic @ 9pm - FREE
Clothing Stall @ Clifton
Campus @ 9.30pm (£2 ADV /
£3 Door)
Clothing Stall @ City
BarFootsie @ Clifton - 7pm
(FREE)
Varsity Sports: Rugby Union Stride: Business - Managing
@ Nottingham RFC, WomMeetings Training, Dryden
en’s match - 5.30pm, Men’s
239, 4.00 - 6.00pm
match - 7.30pm
Derwent Living in The Glasshouse
Open Mic @ 9pm - FREE
/ £3 B4 11pm / £4 B4 12am / £5
12am - 12.30am)
Just the Tonic Comedy
Club @ Clifton - 7pm (£4
Door / £3 ADV from bar / £2
from www.sutickets.com)
Quiz @ 9pm (£1 per person)
Stride: Dealing with Difficult
People Training, Chaucer 547,
1:30 - 3:30pm
Varsity Sports: Netball
Campus @ 9.30pm (£2 ADV /
£3 Door)
DV8 Pre Bar @ 8pm - FREE Last Day of Term Big Spring
B4 9pm (then £2.50 ADV / £3 Giveaway - daytime free
Door)
entry - evening from 8pm (£5
entry / £5 ADV)
Brainspotting @ Clifton
- Weekly quiz @ 8pm (£2 per Flirt! @ 9pm (£3 entry / ADV
team)
tickets available from bar / £2
from www.sutickets.com
BarFootsie @ Clifton - 7pm
(FREE)
Just the Tonic Comedy Club @
Clifton - 7pm (£4 Door / £3 ADV from
bar / £2 from www.sutickets.com)
Sunday 2nd April: Sports Tour
to Callella
BarFootsie @ Clifton - 7pm
(FREE)
Flirt! @ 9pm (£3 entry / ADV
Brainspotting @ Clifton
- Weekly quiz @ 8pm (£2 per tickets available from bar / £2
from www.sutickets.com
team)
Just the Tonic Comedy Club @
Clifton - 7pm (£4 Door / £3 ADV from
bar / £2 from www.sutickets.com)
4 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 •
5
News Feature
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News Feature
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Junction volunteers reach first BASE during SVE Week!
• The biggest challenge
was the redecoration
of the main room - a
basement that serves as
a multi-purpose area
Three
weeks
ago,
students all around
the country took part in various
projects, employing their skills
to benefit others in volunteering
events.
Student Volunteering
Week
saw
students
from
Nottingham Trent taking part in
many events, the largest of which
was at BASE.
BASE, or the Black Achievement
School of Excellence is a
supplementary
school
and
community centre in the Meadows
area of Nottingham.
At the centre, Junction volunteers
were present to undertake a number
of roles.
•
Firstly, there was the
transformation of the
main entrance to the
centre, which consisted
of a drab yard and
peeling front door
•
The centre’s mother
and baby room provides
private space for parents
to change and feed
babies and toddlers, but
the room was anything
but comfortable
6 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
The artists also added their skills to
the mother and baby room, creating
a host of characters and animals to
deck the walls, matching the toys
that we provided for the room.
The project saw 36 volunteers
undertaking various aspects of the
task at hand. A number of members
of staff from the Students Union
also provided their time in the lead
up to the event to undertake some
plastering and fitting of skirting
boards.
The overall result was superb; the
areas the students worked on have
all seen a massive improvements
and the users of the centre were
very happy they were putting their
time and skills in. So, a big thank
you to everyone who was involved
down at the centre.
But when the students arrived it
was full steam ahead. There were
teams of volunteers sanding and
varnishing the front door. Plants and
flowers were potted to decorate the
front of the building. A small team
worked on the mother and baby
room by cleaning and painting the
area. Another team was busy with
rollers doing their best to use up the
gallons of paint needed for
the basement.
There are plenty more projects
to get involved with this year, so if
you’re interested in developing some
new skills, helping out in the local
community, or getting your hands
dirty, don’t hesitate to let us know on
[email protected], or check out
our website at www.trentstudents.
org/junction.
After two days of painting, it
was time to get the specialists
in.
Several art students
worked to design a mural
for the centre, incorporating
the faces of role models for
the students attending the
sessions. The mural, when
finished, looked incredible, as
did the rest of the room. It went
from being gloomy, dank, and in
desperate need of some work, to
a light and airy space.
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 7
New
University
Comedy
Improv
Club
Always wanted to try a hand at comedy? Think
you could do better than the guys on Whose
Line is it Anyway? Or just want to enhance your
confidence and presentation skills? Whatever
the reason, why not come along and try ‘Improv’.
Learn to create scenes, sagas and songs before
people’s eyes, while having loads of fun and games
and meeting new people.
If you are interested, there will be a one day workshop
coming up in the next few weeks. The workshop will
be for people of all capabilities. You don’t need to
have had any previous theatre / drama experience.
The workshop will lead to weekly sessions and
potential performances (only for those who wish to
take part).
If you think you would like to have a go, please contact
Serena at [email protected].
Please put your full name and contact details in the
e-mail. You will then be notified of the time and date
for the day-workshop, which will take place over a
weekend.
Look forward to seeing you soon!
Business Skills Package -
4UESTH-ARCH $RYDEN
7EDTH-ARCH #HAUCER
4UESST-ARCH $RYDEN
7EDND-ARCH #HAUCER Dealing with Difficult People
Motivation
Project Management
Business Skills Package -
Managing Meetings
%MAILSTRIDE SUNTUACUKTO
BOOKORCOMEINTOTHE3TRIDE
OFFICEIN"YRON(OUSETOCOLLECT
ABOOKINGFORM
8 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
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aft session thi
Last te rm!
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 9
The Bubble
Competition Time!
Platform has got two tickets to attend the launch of Channel 4’s The
Games, broadcasting live from Nottingham’s own National Watersports
Centre at Holme Pierrepont!
To be in for a chance to win these tickets, just answer
this question correctly:
Who won The Games in 2005?
Email your answer to [email protected] no later
than Wednesday 15th March.
The 4th series of the Games launches from the National WaterSports
Centre in Nottingham on 17th March 2006. The event will begin at 7.30pm with
DJs and water sport demonstrators, and the programme will be live on Channel 4
at 9pm. Presented by Jamie Theakston and last year’s champion Kirsty Gallacher,
the celebrities battling against each other include Goldie, Javine, Michelle Gayle
and Radio One DJ JK. Tickets are priced at £3.00 for adults, with the proceeds
going to the various charities endorsed by the celebrities. Call (0114) 256 56 56,
or visit www.hallamfmarena.co.uk to book.
Competition Time! (erm, again)
Because we’re just so darn generous, we here at
Platform are giving away yet more loot, this time in
the form of a CD by local hip-hop artist MC C-mone!
‘Unflinching honest rhymes and fresh perspectives’ (One to
Watch Metro)
‘C-mone is one of the best mc’s, male or female, in the uk...
fantastically righteous, blazingly original and humanely honest’
(DJ Mag)
‘The first truly great album of 2006’ (Channel4.com)
To enter the competition, just answer this question correctly:
What is the title of C-mone’s new
album?
Email your answer to [email protected] no later
than Wednesday 22nd March.
www.c-mone.co.uk & www.sonrecords.com
TRIPPING ACCIDENT ON 16 JANUARY 2004 ON LENTON BOULEVARD
Did you witness a tripping accident on 16 January 2004 on Lenton Boulevard, Nottingham?
Our client, who is a lady, aged 53, was walking along Lenton Boulevard at about 3.30pm. Near
the junction with Church Street, between Nos. 72 and 74, there is a large tree which has caused
the tarmac around it to break up. Our client tripped over one of the cracks and fell to the ground,
causing various injuries to her face and body.
She has told us that a male student in his early twenties witnessed the accident, helped her up and
found her broken glasses.
If you have any details or further information that may assist us in this matter please contact Lisa
Jones at Woodfine Batcheldor on 01234 270600 or [email protected].
10 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 11
Student Health Special
Drink? Think!
[Team m
(front ro embers are (b
Gary Simw, left to right) ack row, left to
: Demm
s.]
ah Demright): Vimel B
ud
mah, Ho
ward W hev, Nigel Marc
illiams, R
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ob Durk , Chris Bailey;
in. Missi
ng is
With Drink Spiking on the rise, Howard Williams outlines what
he and fellow Environmental Health students are doing to raise
awareness amongst NTU students to keep themselves safe.
Monday 13th March sees the beginning of Student Health Promotion
Week at Nottingham Trent University.
One of the most talked about issues
regarding student health over the last
year has been that of Drink Spiking.
Whilst some general advice has been
covered in a recent Platform article
(January 2006) the topic is still a very
sensitive one, which is why according to Anna Titley,
Nottingham Trent
Students Union Welfare & Campaigns
Officer, and Sarah
Bustard, Health Promotion Specialist at
NTU, there is a need
to keep educating
people about the
risks and how to
minimise them.
Let’s start with the
facts. Drink Spiking
isn’t nice. Whether
it
is
introducing
alcohol or drugs into
a persons drink, the
effect is the same. Basically, the person
has unwittingly consumed something
that may change their coordination,
comprehension and general behaviour.
The result can vary from mildly amusing
silliness to incredibly harmful, such as
in the case of date rape. If you are male
and thinking this doesn’t affect you, then
think again. Male drink spiking is also on
the rise. In fact, it is rising quicker than
female drink spiking, with men not only
12 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
targeted for rape, but also violence and
theft of possessions. Prior to Christmas,
a young male in Skegness woke up in a
side street and was minus his new phone,
new boots and the wages he had picked
up that evening. Luckily he hadn’t been
beaten or sexually assaulted. However,
what makes this significant was that he
had been drinking in a local bar, where he
was well known and liked and only had
two cokes! Makes you
think, doesn’t it? If
you still feel that this
is not an issue that
could ever affect you,
then read on. Sadly,
the City Medical
Practice has reported
a noticeable increase
in their NTU patients
reporting
spiking
incidents to them. For
this reason, there is a
need for us all to be
vigilant.
So what is being done
about this I hear you
cry? Well, in addition
to NTU information, a group of Environmental Health (EH) and Safety Health
and Environmental Health Management
(SHEM) final year degree students have
taken up the challenge and are looking
to raise awareness through a number of
events, where there will be information,
competitions and giveaways. Dates are
listed below, so make sure you come
along, meet the team and enter the quiz
(Continued overleaf)
General Tips for Avoiding Drink Spiking and Drug Rape
In general you can reduce the risk of
becoming a victim of drink spiking by following these simple tips as recommended
by Anna Titley, NTSU Welfare & Campaigns
Officer:
• Buy your own drinks.
• Watch your drink being poured or the
bottle being opened at the bar.
• Avoid sharing drinks.
• Keep an eye on your drink and your
friends’ drinks at all times - when dancing, going to the toilet or talking to other
people.
• If your drink has been moved, looks
topped up, or tastes funny, don’t drink it
- buy another one to be on the safe side.
• If you do accept a drink from a stranger
or someone you don’t know very well,
watch it being poured.
If someone starts to exhibit sudden signs
of drunkenness and lack of coordination
then:
• Stay with the person who is feeling
drunk, sick, uncoordinated, confused or
faint. Do not leave them alone.
• Take them to a safe place and tell someone else if you are worried, such as your
other friends, the bar or security staff.
• If someone collapses and is unconscious,
call an ambulance immediately.
N.B. - Remember if you suspect that someone has had their drink spiked then tests
have to be conducted quickly to prove the
presence of the drug. Getting help quickly
will result in a greater likelihood of drink
spiking being proven and the culprit being
apprehended.
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 13
Student Health Special
Student Health Special
Forget me not
where you can win great prizes.
Student Health Promotion Week
Prior to and during the promotion
week, the team will be available to
answer questions on the subject of
drink spiking, drug or alcohol assisted
violence (including sexual assault), and
general alcohol related issues. When
questioned, the team said ‘We are not
here to judge anyone, just try to put
students in touch with information
and specialists so that they can make
informed decisions and choices that
hopefully result in you having a wonderfully enjoyable time, without any
negative consequences.’
Interestingly, despite claims by various organisations such as The Roofie
Foundation that drink spiking is on the
increase, there is a contrary view which
argues that in most cases the use of
drugs is not the issue, leading to the
conclusions that it is the sheer volume
of alcohol consumed or mixing drinks
and recreational drugs that is leading
to the rise in drink spiking claims.
So remember the team’s message.
Drink? Think! Think before you Drink!
You really don’t know when a drink
has been spiked, so be sensible. Never
accept drinks from strangers, and drink
sensibly, that way you are less likely to
be an easy target.
Howard Williams
Events and further information
To find out more, meet expert health
professionals, get freebies, and enter
our free prize draw for great prizes,
visit our awareness campaign stand
at:
City site:
Tuesday 14th March 2006 in the
Boots library from 10 am till 4 pm
Clifton site:
Monday 13th March 2006 in the
George Eliot Building from 10 am till
4 pm
In addition you can access information, advice, articles and all our partners via our website which is: www.
ntu.ac.uk/drinkthink.
14 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
‘Sexual health is an important part of physical and mental
health. It is part of our identity as human beings, together
with the fundamental human rights to privacy, a family life,
and living free from discrimination. Essential elements of
good sexual health are; equitable relationships and sexual
fulfilment with access to information and services to avoid the
risk of unintended pregnancy, illness or disease’
(National Strategy for Sexual Health, 2001)
Sexually transmitted infections are increasing at an alarming rate
within the UK; the most common being Chlamydia, followed by nonspecific urethritis, gonorrhoea and warts.
Research suggests that risk-taking behaviour is on the increase. Nottingham Genito
Urinary Medicine (GUM) at the City Hospital had 30,000 patients in 2003; 18,500 of
these were new patients.
It is estimated that 1 in 10 young women are likely to have Chlamydia, and many cases
will go untreated due to the fact that there are no symptoms. If left untreated, it can
lead to pelvic inflammatory disease, ectopic pregnancy and infertility.
Final year Environmental Health and Safety, Health and Environmental Management
students from Nottingham Trent will be running a sexual health campaign on
Monday the 13th March from 10.30 – 2pm in the Boots library foyer (City Campus),
and Tuesday the 14th March from 10-30 – 2pm in the George Elliot Building (Clifton
Campus). The campaign aim is to raise awareness within the student fraternity and
provide information and contacts for advice regarding the subject. Free condoms
will be provided in the promotional packaging to illustrate and help students take
responsibility and control, and to be better informed.
The campaign will raise awareness on the top eight sexually transmitted infections
including:
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Chlamydia
Genital warts
HIV Aids
Gonorrhoea
Herpes
Hepatitis
Syphilis
Pubic lice & Scabies
Simon Cooper
Are you getting enough?
After much indulgence over the festive
period, you may have vowed to
eat healthily in 2006. Nearly
two months into the New Year
already, and this resolution
may have been forgotten
- as New Year’s resolutions
notoriously are. Whether this
was one of your New Year’s
resolutions or not, a healthy
diet is something that we
should all try to achieve.
You are what you eat
What you eat affects both your physical and
mental health. A healthy and balanced diet
will give you more energy, help you to avoid
minor illnesses like colds and help to prevent
health problems in the future such as diabetes
and some cancers.
Eating healthily is simple and easy to
do. Due to the large amount of media
attention focused on food, however,
healthy eating can appear
complicated and confusing. To
eat healthily doesn’t mean a
fad diet such as GI. In order to ensure you have a
healthy diet, all you need to do is:
1. Eat five portions of fruit and veg a day
Fruit and vegetables are full of antioxidants which
help to maintain the immune system. They are also
low in calories so you can eat a lot without worrying. For an
idea of what a portion is, visit www.5aday.nhs.uk/WhatCounts/
PortionSIzes.aspx.
Some examples are: 1 medium apple, 3 tablespoons of kidney
beans, 1 handful of grapes, 3 tablespoons of peas.
2. Change the way you cook food
Grill rather than fry, and steam rather than boil
3. Drink plenty of water
6-8 glasses a day. Try cordials with no added
sugar, weak tea, and diluted fruit juices.
4. Increase the amount of starchy foods
you eat
Starchy foods like pasta, rice and potatoes are
low in fat and calories. Just be careful of the
sauces you use
as these can add
high amounts of
fat.
5.
Reduce
the amount of
sugar, salt and fat in your diet
10g of sugar per 100g is a lot
whilst 2g per 100g is a little. There
are many other words used to describe
added sugar that you should look out for (i.e.
sucrose, glucose, inert sugar, corn syrup and
fructose).
1.25g of salt per 100g is a lot whilst 0.5g is a
little. Sodium can be converted into salt by
multiplying the amount by 2.5. The majority
of our salt intake comes from processed
foods.
20g of fat per 100g is a lot whilst 5g per 100g
is a little.
6. Eat more fibre
Fibre is found in fruit and veg and whole
grain cereals. Fibre not only helps to
avoid constipation and piles, but also
fills you up.
For a better understanding of food
labels
visit
www.eatwell.gov.uk/
foodlabels
Healthy eating is not all cabbage soup
and rabbit food. Nor, however, is it ready
meals that boast reduced fat. In order
to compensate for the reduction of fat, these meals
often contain high levels of salt and sugar - as well as
being expensive.
On 13th March 2006 from
10am-2pm
at the City campus
Student
Union,
and on 14th March
from 10am-2pm at
the Clifton campus
main canteen, Year 4
Environmental Health
and Health and Safety
Management students
will be running a healthy
eating campaign. The
campaign will provide
cheap and healthy meal ideas, and
information regarding healthy eating;
there will be games, food samples and
a bicycle that makes fruit smoothies. All
students are welcome. There will also
be other stalls focused on your health.
Victoria Smith
For more information:
www.areyougettingenough.me.uk
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 15
Bookings now being
taken for 2006/2007
Bookings also being
taken for summer 2006
For an application pack please
contact us at the address below
oks
Arts • Bo
•
e
r
t
a
e
h
ilm • T
Music • F
victoriahall
Nottingham
THE UNSTOPPABLE AVALANCHE
On site management office
Direct dial telephone in each flat
Nine Black Alps supported by Polytechnic and The Longcut
Caretakers on site 24 hours a day
Rock City - February 20th
Door entry system and CCTV security
Fully furnished & equipped self contained flats
Optional internet connection in every bedroom
Television and Sky package included in each flat
All bedrooms have en-suite shower and toilet room
Sought after location within 5 minutes walk of University
Washing machines and tumble dryers in laundrette on site
Curzon Street,
Nottingham, NG3 1DJ
Telephone: 0115 908 2600
website: www.victoriahall.com
email: [email protected]
Nobody is invincible. No one is bulletproof. It’s how you take the
hits that makes you a super-hero. Rolling with the punches, then
giving back ten-fold. This is what makes history - Le Resistance,
the Vietcong, Jake La Motta.
Fate fired a few shots at the Alps tonight, and the band had a hard
time holding it together. But adversity brings out character, and this is
something they have in spades, much to the appreciation of the crowd.
The gaffer tape (the roadies most faithful companion) was called
upon first to fix Sam Forrest’s mic stand. Needless to say he kept
singing into it, dangling from its chord round his knees, and skillfully
managing to avoid getting his hair taped up along with it. An amp
change was carried out, and while a backup Orange stack was brought
on, we were treated to a solo, finger-picked number from the front
man, introduced with a simple “this is called, erm, intermission”.
The rest of band served equally well, with a live sound that was clear,
16 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
lucid, and distinctly apart from some bands’ bass-heavy, hook-less
dirges. Each instrument was used to maximum effect, and the fighting
spirit within the band could be heard cutting the mix throughout the
set, which included singles Unsatisfied, Not Everyone, and Shot
Down.
Polytechnic and The Longcut both served complex sets with precision
and professional accuracy, and while the former perhaps lacked
energy, they were certainly not short of tricks. The Longcut also
performed with a strong sense of style, charisma coming from front
man Stuart Oglivie.
Sadly there was no encore for the packed Rock City audience, but
the Alps won a hard battle tonight, and they certainly confirmed their
growing status in the rock scene.
Alex Brown
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 17
Music
Music
Album Review
Idiot Pilot
‘Strange We Should Meet Here’
(Reprise)
Electronica meets screamo meets post-rock… I know exactly
what you are all thinking - how the HELL is that possible!? Well,
my friends, believe me when I tell you, it IS!!
Released February 6th and coinciding with a full UK tour,
‘Strange We Should Meet’ is an eclectic fusion of the violent
programmatic and, at times, hauntingly melodic. Stand-out
tracks for the moguls include ‘A Day in the Life of a Poolshark’
and ‘To Buy a Gun’ but even after just the initial listen, I was
blown away by the sheer diversity and volume of immediately
likeable songs. Like many other people, I am sure, it is not very
often that I find myself loving every single track that I hear. (The
only recent exception being Arctic Monkeys). By track 3, I am
almost losing my mind with excitement because I don’t know
whether or not to sway lazily to the gentle breaks or mosh like
a pure mentalist to Michael Harris’ raging, cacophonous Chino
Moreno inspired vocals - wow! In three words - absolutely
freakin’ bizarre! ‘Les Lumieres’ is a Nightmares On Wax-esque
infused mash-up of emotionally charged magic - flawless. Perfect
Album Review
for those of the hallucinogenic
persuasion who perhaps need a
little something to chill out to after
a particularly heavy night. However,
I can safely say that this is the only
stimulant you will need! In fact,
I challenge ANYONE to not fully
embrace this track and refer to it
as one of their favourites from now on. Biggest shock on the
album has to be ‘The Violent Tango’- Jesus Christ… this is as
big of a kick up the ass (metaphorically speaking of course!)
as you could possibly get. You find yourself mesmerized by
the opening melancholic strains and then a mere forty three
seconds later it is the musical equivalent of receiving a full-on
blow to the head completely unexpected. As the track climaxes
to a howling crescendo, your hands inevitably fly to your ears
to check for blood. For those of you who relish the power of the
growl (Deftones / Death From Above 1979 / Killswitch Engage)
this one’s for you lot! Further inspirations may stem from Blood
Brothers, and there are Aphex Twin-like elements to be found in
‘Nightlife’. There really is something for every taste here.
Sophie Maughan
Album Review
Jack Johnson and Friends
‘Sing-A-Longs and Lullabies for the film
Curious George’
(Island)
Fresh from victory at the Brit Awards, Jack Johnson releases this
soundtrack to the upcoming Will Ferrell film ‘Curious George’.
This is essentially an album of Johnson singing children’s
songs, with titles such as ‘Jungle Gym’ and ‘The Sharing Song’
– “It’s always more fun to share with everyone” – which sounds
like the most cringe-worthy, ghastly concept ever. However,
the Hawaiian soaked, laid-back affability of his song-writing
means he manages to pulls it off without ever descending into
any tasteless over-sentimentality. The album ends up sounding
‘Lights And Sounds’
(Parlophone)
You’ve got to expect some filler on a pop-punk record, but this
is taking it too far. For the opening four tracks of ‘Lights and
Sounds’ you could be forgiven for thinking that Yellowcard have
found a consistently powerful sound to go with their song-writing
ability. Then the banal college rock begins and doesn’t relent
until the ethereal swirl of closing tune ‘Holy Wood Died’.
On previous LP ‘Ocean Avenue’ the Florida quintet stuck to the
traditional three-chord hooks that stood bands like New Found
Glory and Blink 182 in such good stead at the beginning of their
careers – and at first their attempt at a ‘grown-up’ sound doesn’t
stray too far from the true path. It’s catchy and emotive, but with
a scuzzy element that sets them out from the crowd. ‘Down On
My Head’ in particular is endearingly melodic – sounding like
18 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
‘Making Dens’
(679 Recordings)
NME favourites Mystery Jets’ debut long player
Making Dens is a schizophrenic pop-prog
masterpiece - just as unlikely and unpredictable
as the band itself, the album leaps genres
to and fro without losing purpose, and truly
exhibits the bands songwriting talents, ear for
breathtaking melody, and ability to successfully
venture where other bands wouldn’t dare. The
range of influence on these gentlemen must be
enormous; from sharing the beautiful melancholy
of the Cure to the ramshackle and energy of the
Libertines, Mystery Jets manage to incorporate
so much in every song and manage to make it
their own. Singles already taken from the album
such as You Can’t Fool Me Dennis, Alas Agnes,
and The Boy Who Ran Away form the energetic
backbone to the record; though what makes the album so
pleasing are the more fragile and tender songs (Soluble In Air,
and title track Making Dens) that really give the album depth,
complimenting the more raucous numbers with subtlety, beauty,
and a dimension that few bands successfully offer.
Rob Crich
like a cross between songs from
Sesame Street and an acoustic
version of ‘White Blood Cells’
(there is even a great cover of the
Stripes’ ‘We’re Going To Be Friends’
featured here). ‘The 3R’s is ‘Three
is a Magic Number’ re-worded to
promote recycling, while the finger picking ‘With My Own Two
Hands’ has Johnson doing a duet with Ben Harper. Some indie
snobs will probably sneer at this soundtrack, but when the sun
finally re-appears in a month or two, this will be the ideal album
to listen to.
Phil Bond
Album Review
Yellowcard
Mystery Jets
a snotty Dashboard Confessional.
While the album’s title track rumbles
along with an energetic simplicity
that you can’t help but nod your
head to.
Then it’s one pop no-brainer after
another. ‘City Of Devils’ kicks off
the rough patch with it’s ballad-by-numbers strumming. While
‘Waiting Game’ is aptly named, since its luscious violin openings
are never complemented by the big chorus the listener can’t
help but anticipate.
It’s almost worth the money for the first few tracks. But taken
as a whole ‘Lights And Sounds’ is bettered by the efforts of
countless other post-Green Day punk bands.
Chris Mallett
Album Review
Delays
‘You See Colours’
(Rough Trade)
With the bravado of a battle-bound Napoleon, Delays declare
their intention to “redefine pop music in their own image”
from the shores of Southampton with second album ‘You See
Colours’. Their debut offering ‘Faded Seaside Glamour’ was a
fairly run of the mill affair, wrenched from the jaws of monotony
by Greg Gilbert’s startling vocal ability.
‘You See Colours’ follows a similar pattern, with Greg Gilbert
this time largely indebted to brother Aaron’s use of electronics.
His rolling bass lines and classic string sounds on new single
‘Valentine’ and ‘You and Me’ respectively really draw your
attention to songs you fear would
otherwise have gallantly sailed by.
Lyrically, Greg Gilbert only really
scratches the surface of romance,
as in ‘Too Much In Your Life’ – “Oh
darling come home / I never wanted
you to go / I thought this place would
make you grow / But I’m not happy yet” – where his fondness
for all things tender should really cause him to think deeper.
Having said that, the aforementioned potency of the vocals and
electronics make ‘You See Colours’ a pleasant listen overall,
but any group who releases a track named ‘Valentine’ the week
after February 14th is clearly oblivious to their strengths.
Luke Eldridge
Album Review
Massive Attack
‘Collected
(Virgin)
With their somewhat disappointing last album ‘100th Window’
(which featured only 3D from the original trio) hinting that their
best days are behind them rather than in front, it seems an ideal
time for Massive Attack to release a ‘Best Of’ album. And so
we have ‘Collected’, proof of what a brilliant back-catalogue
they have, which consistently pushed musical boundaries in the
1990’s. Their music is a hybrid of many different cultures across
the world, demonstrated on the Eastern sounding ‘Karmacoma’,
with its chorus line “Karmacoma, Jamaica and Roma”. The
vocals on their tracks alternate between angelic female guests,
like Tracy Thorn and Shara Nelson,
and the demonic rapping of the
Massive Attack trio and also fellow
Bristol resident Tricky. Highlights
on the album include their first
classic production ‘Unfinished
Sympathy’, and 1998’s ‘Angel’, with
its stunningly brooding, cinematic ascent into crashing drums
and guitars. If you don’t own any Massive Attack albums then
it is essential you buy this, and if you are already a fan then
‘Collected’ is worth buying for the bonus CD, featuring rare/
unreleased tracks and all of their videos to date.
Phil Bond
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 19
Film
Music
Larrikin Love
Hello!
@ Cabaret - 28/02/06
They cite their influences as
Rimbaud, Wilde and Larkin, but
on seeing Edward Larrikin and
friends take to the stage, clad
in appalling sportswear, the
casual onlooker would assume
this London band had been
wrongly advertised.  No!  This is
indeed the ramshackle reggae
of Larrikin Love, stuffing song
after song into a tight thirty
minute slot.  The same casual
onlooker who earlier scoffed at
the dirty tracksuits would soon
begin to note Larrikin’s lyrics,
neatly combining the streetwise
sensibilities of The Streets with
the bluegrass breathlessness
of Brakes.  He would be sure to
notice the gathering crowd’s enjoyment of forthcoming single
‘Edwould’, and perhaps the best received song of the evening,
‘Happy as Annie’.  Finally, he would come to accept that
Larrikin Love, although clearly from the Mystery Jets school of
We are always looking for more people to
get involved with the film section; if you
think you would enjoy writing reviews email
me at [email protected].
Meanwhile there are some more great films
out this fortnight, I’m particularly looking
forward to Syriana and V for Vendetta.
Kerry Edwards
Failure to Launch
Director: Tom Dey
performing, are able to put such talk of image and influence to
one side, and play a simple and enjoyable set of songs.
Words: Joe Wall
Photo: Davinia Rose
Album Review
Stereolab
‘Fab Four Suture’
(Too Pure)
Fans of Stereolab have very much been the figurative ‘children
in a sweet store’ over the past fifteen years or so the AngloFranco electronic post-rockers have been toiling away. From
within those cherished jars of boiled delight have come limited
editions, one-off collaborations, split singles, and now an album
comprising of a compilation of six limited edition 7” releases
over the past few years. Quite what becomes of the so-called
‘limited edition’ singles now they are released in this wider
format is another matter.
The common formula for post-rock
music means one must give up
a similar amount of time to that
which the British and American
forces have spent in Iraq before an
album’s complexities come to light.
‘Fab Four Suture’ is more obvious
than that, and unearths the kind of
care-free attitude you just wouldn’t find in an album proper. It’s
chirpy feeling throughout means it hovers precariously over the
chasm that is irritating electro-pop, but Stereolab have enough
guile to know their limits.
Luke Eldridge
Album Review
Crossfire. Owners of a Metro will
tell you however; if nothing else,
they are steadfast. You know what
you are going to get. No satellite
navigation or park pilot systems
here.
Graham Coxon
‘Love Travels at Illegal Speeds’
(EMI)
Whilst former band mate Damon Albarn’s stock continues to
rise with the success of those mischievous Gorillaz, Graham
Coxon continues to churn out solo albums with production
line efficiency. Indeed much like the hapless MG Rover plant
of Longbridge, many of those offerings are predictable, simple,
old-fashioned indie albums. No risks taken, nothing given.
Seemingly stuck in 1996, Coxon’s regard for progression is
slight, and so we are presented with his sixth solo album ‘Love
Travels at Illegal Speeds’ – more Rover Metro than Chrysler
20 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
‘Love Travels…’ is very much the
same and shows Coxon’s apparent two faces. On the one
hand we have the punkier tracks like ‘Standing On My Own
Again’ and ‘Gimme Some Love’; on the other we have his shy,
indie-boy persona with ‘Just a State of Mind’ and ‘Don’t Believe
Anything I Say’. They won’t be checking glances on the street
from stunning blondes, but they will get you from A to B.
Luke Eldridge
I went to see this movie under the illusion that it was something
to do with astronauts. No, really. Failure to Launch is in fact a
romantic comedy starring Sarah Jessica Parker and Matthew
McConaughey. Matt’s parents are sick of their thirty-something
son disrupting their retirement by being too lazy to move out of
the family abode, so they hire Sarah Jessica Parker’s character
to tempt him to leave home by having a fake relationship with
him, but in the way of all fake relationships in rom-coms, it
quickly becomes a real relationship.
exactly does Sarah Jessica Parker’s character see in this guy?
Parker seems to have been content with mediocrity since her
Sex and the City days and this movie doesn’t prove a departure
for her. Although she and McConaughey, as well as the actors
who play his long-suffering parents (Kathy Bates and Bradley
Cooper) struggle gamely through, everyone is let down by the
abysmal direction and the rest of the supporting cast are left to
flounder. Overall, this movie is formulaic, badly-plotted, terribly
written, fluff: candy floss for the brain.
This concept really didn’t do it for me; I mean, they hire their son
a girlfriend! This is different from prostitution how? And what
Kerry Edwards
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 21
Film
Biography: Scarlett Johansson
Scarlett Johansson is one of the up and coming young
actresses of Hollywood. The twenty-one year old first
came to attention with her powerful role in The
Horse Whisperer, and later
in her understated and
acclaimed performance
in Lost in Translation,
opposite Bull Murray.
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Sca
was born in New
York in 1984 to a family of
Polish/Danish heritage. She grew up in
New York and reportedly decided to pursue a career
in acting at the age of three! While attending high school she
filmed several alternative and well-regarded films such as Ghost
World and The Man Who Wasn’t There and made plans to go
to university. When these fell through, she dedicated all her
energy to acting, making Girl with a Pearl Earring, as well as the
less successful high-school movie The Perfect Score. Troubles
surrounding her much-publicized relationship with Benicio del
Toro and misquoted interviews plagued Scarlett during 2004,
and though she was nominated for a number of awards she
largely came away empty-handed.
You’re at
Liberty to stay!
In 2005 Scarlett made the somewhat questionable choice to
star in the Michael Bay-directed action movie The Island. The
film was panned by critics and ignored by moviegoers, but
Scarlett looks set to get back on track in 2006 with the release
of The Black Dahlia in which she co-stars with boyfriend Josh
Hartnett, as well as other critically anticipated releases.
Elizabeth Frank
n Time!
io
Competit
New Releases
March 17th
V for Vendetta
The Pink Panther
Tsotsi
March 24th
Inside Man
The Ringer
Romance and Cigarettes
Transamerica
22 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
The Students
Union is going
to be running
another
scratchcard
promotion
from March
10th to
celebrate the
release of the
new Johnny
Knoxville
film, The
Ringer. The
grand prize
is a holiday
for two on a
Greek island,
while runnersup will receive
The Ringer
T-shirts and
other merchandise. Look out for the posters around
the SU bar for more information on how to take part.
Students enjoy Liberty Living so much
they come back year after year
Tel: 0115 942 3398 [email protected]
www.libertystudents.com
23
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 •
Arts
Arts
All Quiet on the
Western Front
@ Nottingham Playhouse
I was asked to review All Quiet on the
Western Front, the stage adaptation
of the novel by Erich Maria Remarque.
The story is told from the perspective of
a central character (Paul Baumer) that,
as a teenager, is called to fight for his
country during World War I.
Now, to be completely honest, I had
preconceived notions regarding just how
‘entertaining’ a play based on the war
could be. Considering the subject matter,
I felt this could go one of two ways; either,
I was going to be blown away by the
intense and explicit references to the war
that would leave me with plenty to think
about. Or, memories of the GCSE History
syllabus would come screaming back.
You may argue that a play does not need
bells and whistles to be credible, but I
have an immense emotional attachment
to the performing arts I must say! And
so, I presume everything at the theater is
about entertaining the audience to some
extent. In this case, it was obvious that
this was not ‘that sort of play’; the subject
matter would require sensitivity and a
level of empathy to really appreciate it.
24 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
[Pictured: (Back row L-R) Jim Tomlinson, Robin Harvey Edwards, Simon Sanchez, Daniel Rigby;
(Front row L-R) Mark Dempsey, Marc Jordan, Daniel Rabin]
Theatre Review
Okay, now as the preconceptions were
fading, we settled to watch All Quiet on
the Western Front. I must say, from the
opening scene, I knew that I was going
to enjoy this. The Playhouse was near to
capacity, a mix of students and families,
and I was sat dead center, which was
probably the best place to be (and a row
behind the Mayor, I think)?
We quickly meet Paul and his comrades
who are all in their teens (except one, the
father figure at least 20 years their senior)
and this central friendship is really the
heart of the story. Paul is described as
a dreamer, passionate about his butterfly
collection. As the story progresses, we
learn more about the dreams that these
young soldiers have and their desperation
to reach the end of this nightmare.
The play follows a pattern whereby the
story is told between attack and calm.
The scenes depicting attack are the
most visually dramatic parts, but we
learn most about the characters during
the conversations that take place in
the trenches. The portrayal of these
young men is brilliantly realistic and the
audience can really imagine how intense
the burden of responsibility must have
been. The most intimate scenes show
their attempts to provide comfort for each
other and to raise spirits, which at times
Exhibition Review
Blood Brothers
@ Theatre Royal
Willy Russell’s Blood Brothers is a well renowned theatre
production which has been shown all over the country, recently
in the West End. This Valentine’s night it was showing at the
Theatre Royal in Nottingham. So, it was my chance to rush home
from the gym, change, grab some dinner at Wetherspoon’s and
go for my hot date with the Blood Brothers (the glamour of the
single girl’s life).
‘Loving Your Work’
@ Eye Candy
Hosted by Eye Candy, Nottingham’s newest art shop, this
exhibition in the ‘Loving your Work’ series was held at Lee
Rosie’s café on Broad Street. The artist was Mr. Max Crow who
works as an animator for the National Space Centre among
other things.
makes these scenes really funny.
The play successfully maintains a level
of tension as the lives of the central
characters are continually threatened
on the front line. Paul in particular
becomes increasingly overwhelmed by
his emotions, at the same time dealing
with the death of his comrades, which is
all too frequent. His age and fragility is
most apparent during a scene where he
loses his pistol and has to kill the enemy
with a knife. We watch as Paul deals with
the shock of death that he was not at all
prepared for, making these scenes the
most powerful of the play.
The play reaches its climax in 1918, as
the events are told chronologically. There
is talk that the war is coming to an end,
but this hope has come far too late for the
characters. The closing scene describes
(in graphic and brutal detail) how each of
the characters lost their lives, culminating
with Paul, undeniably the most emotional
part of the play.
Although inevitable, this scene has a
profound effect on the audience that
understands that this is not just a ‘story’
and, in fact, all too real.
Words: Laura Johnstone
Photo: Robert Day
Theatre Review
Walking into the Café, I was immediately introduced to the
theme of the evening by a large projection screen advertising
“Cowgirl County, where everyone is a cowgirl.” I’m not usually
a fan of western themes but it was difficult not to smile at the
range of paintings around the room, all featuring a bandanawearing, lasso-twirling, knee-boot stamping ‘Cowgirl’ in various
poses. Perhaps not quite Monet, but I could see the appeal. He
was offering a ‘Cowgirl County T-Shirt’ with each painting sold,
though when asked he maintained that, “They’re already sold.
They just haven’t come to pick them up yet.”
Max says his inspiration was drawn from the French graffiti
artist, Fafi. He used similar materials in his own work, producing
colourful and even startling effects. He also admitted that “In my
mind I live with the lovely little ladies who run free”. Though I
don’t know if he realised I was taking notes at the time. Whatever
his inspiration, his work is bright, cheerful, and would make a
wonderful addition to any wall.
Also on show that night was Max’s wide range of animation. With
subjects varying between his original take on alien abduction,
trolls, and, of course, cowgirls, his work shows imagination as
well as an undeniable graphical talent. The short films share a
dark humour that will make you laugh as well as cringe right
up until the end. His films, as well as his graphics are on his
website at www.maxcrow.co.uk. If you are into animation and
want to see a master at work, check it out.
Like many shows I go to see, I had heard some fantastic reviews
but never had the chance to see it for myself. I can tell you that
I was not disappointed. Set in Liverpool, Blood Brothers follows
the lives of two twin boys separated at birth. Each boy is raised
within a totally different lifestyle (one rich and one poor). Mickey
stays with his - as she puts it - ‘very fertile’ mother in a crowded
council house, whilst Eddie is brought up by the wealthy Lyons
family. A chance meeting brings the boys together and, to each
mother’s despair, the boys become inseparable. That is, until a
shock ending, but I won’t spoil it for you.
Casting for the show has been an amazing success with Linda
Nolen taking the lead role (as all of the Nolen sisters have at
some point). I have to say that it always worries me when adults
are cast as children because it can go one of two ways…very
funny or, cringe making. Luckily this time it was funny and
even though I obviously wouldn’t say that it was believable, it
worked.
One thing I do like about theatre is the fact that anything can
happen at any time; there are no second takes. This is especially
true when it comes to actors getting the giggles. Linda Nolen
controlled her laughter humorously yet professionally which is
something I would never be able to do. Once I am laughing,
that is it - I’ve got it for a while.
The story and way in which it is performed kept us hooked all
the way through. Whilst being an
easy to watch and follow show, it
also contains a social message
and morality. The truth always
catches up with you in the
end and has consequences,
however well-intended the lie
was in the first place.
Laura Johnstone
Eye Candy will be continuing their series on ‘Loving your Work’
showcasing a different artist each time. Pop into their shop in
Hockley for details.
Laura Johnstone
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 25
Fashion
Fashion
A Mouret is a Wonderful Thing
The world’s love affair with designer Roland Mouret
If you’ve been locked away in a tower for the past year, or have been living in Cambodia, then
it’s possible that you’ll never have heard of Roland Mouret, nor ever clapped eyes
on any of his creations. For this, you will be excused. But to the rest of the
world, he is known for quickly becoming one of the biggest new designers
to emerge in the twenty-first century, and whose legendary dress ‘the
Galaxy’ has been seen on every A to Z-lister on every red-carpet in the
world.
After the unimaginable success of this signature piece, which took the
fashion world by storm in 2005, Mouret has launched ‘the Titanium’ as part
of his spring/summer ’06 collection, which is set to make just as big of a mark
on fashion this year.
So what’s so special about ‘the Galaxy’ that every designer outlet waited on
lists for months on end to have it in stock, and caused every reputable highstreet shop to copy it? The secret to both dresses lies in their construction.
PowerMesh - an elastic originally used to cinch waists in 1950s undies - has
been added to the lining, creating the perfect hourglass silhouette. This comes
in handy whatever your shape or size, as the lining can shave inches off you
as it tucks in tummies and waists and holds curves in place, or it can help to
create a more shapely figure (even when worn by the skinniest of catwalk
models) by moulding, cinching and shaping to perfection. And it’s this sexy
and flattering 1950’s look that has the best dressed eating out of Mouret’s
hand and begging for more. And, thank goodness, more there certainly is;
although sadly ‘the Titanium’ is part of what will be Mouret’s penultimate
collection for Roland Mouret Design Ltd, his label for the past five years, as
he resigned from the company after showing his spring/summer collection
last year, and leaving just one more collection to be designed before he
and the company go their separate ways.
Still, at just 44, there’s definitely more to come from Mouret in the way
of showcasing his creative talents, as illustrated by his spring/summer
collection, which was exceptional. In it, Mouret showed his versatility by
straying a little from his more renowned darker colours such as black, dark
blue and grey by incorporating a veritable array of bright and astonishing
yet totally wearable colours into the collection alongside them, ranging from
fuchsia pink to delicious orange, sea green and electric blue. This is another
quality that adds to the magic, beauty and uniqueness of Mouret’s designs.
His clothes retain their star glamour and elegance when worn by office temp
Tracy, accountant Sarah, high-flying lawyer Rachel, or actress Scarlett
Johansson, who happens to be one of Mouret’s biggest fans and chose to
wear him to The Golden Globes and the Oscars last year. She is among the
hoards of women who love his clothes because they actually flatter and fit her
figure perfectly. Mouret says “You are never too big - that’s my philosophy; dress
sizes should be flower names, like lily for a 14 - not numbers.” This rare and
bold quality in a modern designer, as well as Mouret’s braveness to express his
beliefs and knowledge about women’s bodies, is what is making him an international
superstar.
The world certainly is Mouret’s oyster. His spring/summer collection has just recently hit
the shops but has had an extensive waiting list for many months. His designs are openly
praised by celebrities of all kinds and constantly seen on red carpets, whilst Mouret stays
ever grounded, still making his designs for the ‘average’ woman, always thinking about new
ways to make her feel sexy and chic. This is echoed in his comparatively moderate prices at
£800 for ‘the Galaxy’ dress. I, along with the rest of the world’s community of fashion followers,
wait with baited breath to see what the revolutionary talent of Roland Mouret will decide to do
next in his amazing career.
26 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
Sally Torode
Shop Review
Topshop, Victoria Centre
Presentation & Layout:
9,000 sq foot of shopping space, sleek
shoe lounge, contemporary clothing
arrangements,
hip
mannequins
for style ideas, and the trendiest
assistants. Also, a couch with Sky
Sports for all the dads/ boyfriends/
brothers that have been dragged
along.
“Hi, where ca
n
student budg I pick up a designer barg
ain? I have a
et but crave
labels! Help
me!”
- Sarah, 3rd Ye
ar Psycholog
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There is a ran
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Matthew Willi
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ams including
am
of Sienna Mi son and Julien Macdon
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ller) featuring
s
handbags at
capsule colle
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and a Lulu Gu
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Good luck!
Staff Knowledge / Customer
Service:
A specialist (and free) personal
style advisor service available.
Stock:
Lots of it. Nottingham is now home
to one of few flagship stores.
Emma x
Sizes/ Choice:
Various leg lengths, petite and tall
sections, boutique, bazaar and
maternity section, along with
many styles of basic tops and
jeans. Stock updated daily.
Prices:
Starting to get a bit too big for its boots
recently, but then again it’s cheaper
than designer and just as stylish. Even
Beyonce, Keira Knightley and Cat Deeley
are regulars you know!
Till service:
There was a long queue although there
were quite a few tills open. But there is
always the chance to queue jump with a
style advisor consultation. Kitsch fabric
tote bags for carrier bags too!
Website/ Ordering service?
Yes, and a chance to order clothes only
otherwise available in the Oxford Street
branch. Also features a virtual wish list
service that you can send to potential
present buyers complete with your sizes!
Style tips also available.
Student discount?
10%.
Hottest find:
Pencil skirt with braces, £28
Star Rating:
5/5. Ultimate shopping heaven.
Reviewed by Emma Hunt.
If you have a
fashion dilem
ma that need
fashiondilemm
s sorting email
[email protected]
:
.uk.
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Sally To
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 27
Reflections
Reflections
discipline,
structure
and
facing
challenges. You may be a “free spirited”
kind of person who rebels against rules
or boundaries imposed on you; you may
fear challenges. Procrastination gives you
an excuse to stay in your “comfort zone”.
• Health issues
If you are suffering from depression,
emotional difficulties or other mental
health problems, you are likely to feel
unmotivated and de-energised. You may
be on medication which is affecting your
sleep, digestion and appetite. These
problems can undermine your confidence
and adversely affect your concentration
and commitment.
• Wrong Course?
You feel “stuck” - it’s the wrong course.
Every step on the course seems a big
burden. Procrastination is a way to
escape although not for long.
PROCRASTINATION
(PUTTING THINGS OFF)
Most of us have put some things off
until the last minute, or at least until
the next day, and the next. By doing
this, the “problem” does not have to
be tackled immediately. There may be
some temporary relief in delaying the
task until the next day. Some people
work better by building up their
tension/stress level to the last minute,
and that gives them the push they
need to finish their work or complete
a task. If this is your preferred way
of working, then maybe you don’t
have a problem with procrastination.
However, if you are constantly falling
behind with work and suffer from
anxiety and distress as a result,
perhaps you do have a problem and
you need to address it.
with yours. The main reasons are:
Reasons for Procrastination
• Task is too difficult or boring
You know the task is not straightforward,
and based on past experience you predict
failure, frustration, disappointment, and
anger. You need help but don’t want to
ask anyone, or the support is simply
So, why do we deliberately avoid doing
that which we know has to be done?
Pause here and write down your reasons
and then see which of the following match
28 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
• ‘Not in the mood’
You decide that you cannot make a start
on a task because you are not in the
mood (e.g. you are too tired, it’s too late,
you can’t think, you had an argument
with someone, you’re too frustrated or
maybe too happy etc.)
• ‘Can’t make a start’
You do all the necessary preparation,
reading or research to start work (ie. get
your notes, books, computer on etc.) but
you just can’t make a start and begin to
play the distraction game e.g. making
an ‘urgent’ phone call, getting a drink,
finding notes or books which you ‘cannot’
do without.
not there. You may lose confidence and
excessively blame yourself. There are
so many interesting things to grab your
attention and push you away from doing
the task.
• Perfectionism
You may hold the belief that either
you should do the task to perfection
or not at all. You are not prepared to
make a start until you know you have
full understanding of the subject, your
research is of high quality, you have done
all the necessary preparation and that
you can get top marks. This suggests you
have unrealistic expectations of yourself
and you are setting up goals which you
may not be able to achieve. Pressure
from parents can add to this. In a nutshell,
you are chasing the perfectionism myth.
Pursuing “high standards” set against
measurable criteria is much more realistic
and achievable.
• Meeting Challenges
Life, especially student life, is about
• Right course but poor study skills
If you don’t have the tools of the trade then
you may feel anxious and overwhelmed
by the demands of the course. You could
seek help in structuring your essays or
guidance in doing research.
Breaking Through Procrastination
Procrastination is a natural part of life
and is only a problem when it becomes
a habit. Change can be threatening,
and breaking a habit usually requires
determination because following old
patterns of behaviour can seem much
easier, however dissatisfying.
also give you the push you need to make
a start.
• Learn to manage time
Make a list of what needs to be done
and prioritise. Judge the importance
of tasks on a one to ten scale, then set
small and realistic goals. Set yourself
up to succeed by taking small steps. It
is useful to make a visual map filling in
your daily and weekly goals along with
your deadlines. Show this to a friend and
make an agreement with them about
what you want to achieve. Of course this
can be mutually beneficial.
• Examine your Life Style
There is nothing wrong with seeking
fun, pleasure and comfort, but where
this is always in avoidance of structure
and discipline, then there may be some
problems that you do not want to face.
Counselling may be a good place to
examine these because it offers time
and a non-judgmental
approach
for you to
explore and
face these
problems.
only able to achieve a 2:2. Realistic goals
can save a lot of disappointments for
you.
• Ask for Help
What are the areas you need help
with? The university’s Student Support
Services at the Dryden Centre and at
Clifton can help with your academic (e.g.
essay writing, study skills), financial, or
emotional problems (e.g. counselling
service).
Shukla Dhingra
Student Counsellor
For more information:
The Little Book of Procrastination (2003)
Perry, Andrea. Worth Publishing
• Be realistic
Know
what
your limits are.
You may want
to achieve a 2:1
but there may
b e reasons
that
you
are
Here are some helpful tips for breaking
the procrastination habit:
• Do it - Now!
These simple words can be the most
powerful tools for breaking the habit of
procrastination. It means writing or doing
something, anything, anywhere to make
a start. These would be actions, initial
thoughts, words or sentences without
editing or censoring. This way you have
taken the first difficult step which you were
dreading all along. Once the worst is over
the rest will follow. To remind yourself,
write ‘DO IT - NOW’ in words - big, bold
and colourful - and stick them at a few
places where you are bound to see them
many times every day. Whenever you are
tempted to think “not now” then repeating
the words to yourself like a mantra can
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 29
Sports
MILLWALL IN THE CHAMPIONS LEAGUE!
Well, not quite.
In the last few years the F.A. Cup,
League Cup and even the UEFA
Cup have been shown neglect by
English teams as they focus all their
attentions on the Premiership. Not
that you can blame them. The game
has developed in such a way that
now the overwhelming majority of
funding and prize money goes into
the Premiership and the Champions
League. With huge overheads to
contend with week on week (also
known as players), clubs have little
option other than to concentrate
wholly on their lucrative status in the
Premiership. To be relegated from
the Premiership has now become
a financial burden too horrific to
contemplate. At the other end of
the scale – for Chelsea, Manchester
United, Liverpool and Arsenal – not
qualifying for the Champions League
is inconceivable.
Observe a few worrying examples of this
trend. Whilst the top team’s neglect for the
League Cup and F.A. Cup is already well
known (culminating in Manchester United
excusing themselves from the latter’s
2000 competition), lower level teams now
seem equally untroubled. Let us consider
the recent F.A. Cup Fourth Round tie
between Reading and Birmingham City.
Both teams fielded weakened sides
made up largely of fringe players, and
the 16,644 attendance reflected how
seriously both took the game. What kind
of money-dominated situation has the
30 • Platform Volume 14 Issue 10
game reached when neither Reading
nor Birmingham City care not for winning
the F.A. Cup? Neither has ever won it in
their history, and they clearly don’t want
to anytime soon.
Equally, let us consider the recent UEFA
Cup match between Bolton Wanderers
and Olympique Marseille at the Reebok
Stadium. For clubs like Bolton and
Middlesborough (England’s UEFA Cup
contingent this season), qualifying for
such a prestigious European competition
should be a privilege that they embrace
to the fullest. But in the recent fixture
involving Sam Allardyce’s men, the
attendance was a paltry 19,288. A team
with barely any experience of European
football against past European Cup
winners, but still around 4,000 more
Trotters fans went to watch their side
play Portsmouth back in September. For
Middlesborough’s first-leg tie against VFB
Stuttgart in Germany, the attendance was
down 10,000 on recent domestic games.
So here is the solution. The Champions
League qualification is restructured so
the top three placed teams from the
Premiership qualify automatically, and
the fourth place goes to the F.A. Cup
winners. Subsequently the prestige
and desire to win the world’s oldest
football competition is retained. The top
Premiership teams would put there all
into the F.A. Cup knowing they could
essentially qualify for Europe within six
games, and lower placed teams like
Reading and Birmingham would have
unbounded motivation at the prospect of
Champions League football.
Before you recoil at the prospect of recent
finalists Millwall or Southampton playing
Champions League football, remember
it has been over a decade seen anyone
aside from Chelsea, Man Utd, Liverpool
or Arsenal won the F.A. Cup. In the result
of one of the top three teams wining the
cup, qualification would go back to the 4th
placed Premiership team rather than the
losing finalists.
This system could also be applied to the
UEFA Cup to add extra incentive. Reduce
the league coefficient (the system that
decides how many teams from each
nation enter European competitions) of
the one of the lowest placed nations with
participants – Faroe Islands, Kazakhstan
or Luxembourg – and award the winners
of the UEFA Cup with automatic
qualification for the Champions League
the next year. In recent years these would
have included CSKA Moscow, Valencia,
FC Porto and Feyenoord… all teams who
could compete against Europe’s finest
in the Champions League. It might just
work.
The game of football is a conservative
old thing, but it should not be closed
to concepts that could bring its tired
competitions back to life.
Luke Eldridge
Platform Volume 14 Issue 10 • 31