The Telegram

We have seen it and heard it, the world influencing each other’s music tastes, through culture and designs. Musician collaborating with other genres of music to produce new music that has evolved from what it was years ago and more received by a wider audience. It is this adapting nature that has made it possible for musicians to perform in a lot more venues and still make millions despite the changes in the music industry.

Thanks to new opportunities presented by video sharing websites and social media networks, many more people can make music, release music and make money from music, therefore creating a lot more competition. So, for any artist to compete he or she  must re-invent his or her musical style; drawing in influences from other cultures.

Spoek Mathambo is a perfect example of this. This South African genius is the poster child for Afro-futurism; a new breed of artists that have a nurturing a sense of progressiveness while maintaining a pride in indigenous culture. His music is a mixture of Rap, House, Township Tech and progressive electronic music and is sure to get every bit of your body moving.

Spoek Mathambo has managed to penetrate the international market by formulating  a music genre that is a fusion of different music tastes which has been  blended with his own identity. He is feeding the need to want to discover and listen to music that is not in the masses while taking you through a journey of  the   evolution of  his music.

This global and multicultural way of thinking in terms of music, fashion and dance is what makes our current society interesting and tolerant of others regardless of our differences. 

THE PARKA FOR HER

So next seasons trends have been announced and the return of the parka is definitely on the list.

My Mother always used to say that any wardrobe should contain a decent parka and that every few years they will creep back into the limelight -so far she has been correct.  Autumn/Winter 2012 seems to be the next year in which it will make its return.

Made famous by Manchester bands such as Oasis and Stone Roses, the parka has been associated with that grungy rock and roll lifestyle and as the masculine/boyfriend shape is also a top trend this season just throw on an original, oversized jacket and voila, the look is complete.

However, it does not always have to be worn in this way and can easily be found to fit the feminine figure, and why not get creative embellishing the jacket with this seasons top accessory – spiked studs and crosses.

Not only is the parka one of the key trends for next season, it is also incredibly practical. Unlike the fur coats of previous years, the parka will keep you warm, dry, and if you purchase a good one will be incredibly long lasting.

Oh, and if khaki isn’t your colour, then black parkas are just as hot.

 THE PARKA FOR HIM

It’s been all about Britain this year, and this has called for a trip down memory lane in menswear. The 1960’s were all about the mods, and the mods were never seen without their trademark parkas.

Beneath the oversized jackets were worn smart tailored trousers (pressed to perfection), crisp shirts and shiny shoes.

Think Carnaby Street and Paul Weller. 

It’s been 148 long weeks since Mumford and Sons released their first critically acclaimed album ‘Sigh No More’. And of course it has been 148 weeks since we first started waiting for the Next Big Album from the biggest indie-folk band of now. With just a few more weeks to go until the release of the highly anticipated ‘Babel’, Mumford and Sons took to Youtube and the mighty platform of Radio 1 to release a teaser of what to expect from this British band’s new collection.

‘I will Wait’ - first aired on August 7th - is a fresh and excited intake of break to the band’s debut ‘Sigh No More’. Unmistakably the single of the English Indie stars, the track features all the trademark sounds of our beloved folk-fest fellas. Beautiful lyric refrains, check; fast paced earthy drum beat, check; blazing horns, rooted banjos, pure harmonies; check check check. The band cleverly mix together an unchanging yet fresh sound, reminding listeners just why they shot to fame   three Summers ago.

The official audio release sees a video full of Indie masquerade and metaphor. The continuous shot of the moving road, supports the upbeat and driving pace of the song, whilst allowing for pure focus on this genuine showcase of Brit-folk at its best. 

Babel, set for release on September 24th, looks to become the perfect feel-good follow up to this thoroughly English band: the newest success to the most authentically folkish foray.

It never seems to amaze me the drive young British girls and boys have to always want to upgrade their image. This generation has become savvy at becoming a trendsetter and inspire others through social networking. Even with the global breakdown they have managed to  come out on top;  learning of ways to stay trendy and  relevant without affecting their wallets or in some cases their parent’s wallets.

We embody the current British fashion of  always trying to upgrade our looks by adding subtle or extreme touches to an outfit, whether be adding a vintage  accessory, redesigning an old item or simply pairing clothes in a unique way that can be influenced by the different cultures and tastes around us. You can count on us to have the imaginative to style ourselves and stand out from the crowed.

What I love about this fashion house is that it provides trends across the spectrum,  thanks to all the vintage shops, marketplaces and quintessential British stores,  you are always guaranteed you will look modish and on trend regardless of your income.

Having adopted the British way of thinking when it comes to image, I have noticed a huge difference to how I carry and see myself and I perceive British  fashion  as an enforcer of confidence,  grace and embodying upgrading  your brand that is you.

We are Icons because you know the importance of  us being a  brand and working hard to  differentiate ourselves from the rest to stay relevant; we are relevant because we are Upgrade Icons

Liverpool threesome, Stealing Sheep, previously resided on the periphery of the UK music scene. But this has all changed. For viewers of Channel 4’s Hollyoaks, the eerily addictive ‘nursery-rhyme’ quality of their music may be familiar: they featured on the circus themed ‘Savage Party’ promo extravaganza. 

The triumvirate force of Stealing Sheep is made up of Emily Lansley, Becky Hawley and Lucy Mercer.  The mix-match of voices from all three are balanced by their cleverly crafted instrumental skills: Lansley on guitar, Hawley on keys and percussion from Mercer. The girls consistently embark upon the new and experimental - writing and rehearsing together to create tightly knitted harmonies, lyrical and musical genius and a hypnotic Siren-like quality. They have expertly honed their sound, creating a deliciously diverse soundscape, yet keeping a tight grip on their easily recognisable identity.

Dubbed as ‘psychedelic-folk’, the girls boast an impressive series of unique tracks on EP Noah and the Paper Moon, generating a buzz for an eagerly awaited debut album. Set for release this September, ‘Into the Diamond Sun’ (Heavenly Records) is expected to demonstrate the girl’s ability, quality and musicality. Singles from the album - ‘Shut Eye’ and ‘Genevieve’ - offer a teaser of what can be expected; purely magical music. Shut Eye is a perfect paradigm of Stealing Sheep’s psych/folk sound, with ‘Genevieve’ honing a more relaxed summer vibe. A handful of spontaneous recordings from the iconic Abbey Road Studios, are also featured, mirroring the high expectations being placed upon this British band. 

September proves to be an exciting month for the Liverpudlian trio, with a timely set of live gigs to match their album release. A particular highlight for Stealing Sheep is their inclusion in Bestival line-up. The Isle of Wight festival could launch the elusive folkloric pop of Stealing Sheep into the mainstream, bewitching festival-goers with the penetrable quality of their ‘lyrical alchemy’ (The Sunday Times).  Massive psychedelic guitar riffs, enchanting vocals and an earthly simplicity to their songs - a meeting of spiraling progressive and rooted folk - make these Brits perfect artists for a summer fest.Liverpool threesome, Stealing Sheep, previously resided on the periphery of the UK music scene. But this has all changed. For viewers of Channel 4’s Hollyoaks, the eerily addictive ‘nursery-rhyme’ quality of their music may be familiar: they featured on the circus themed ‘Savage Party’ promo extravaganza.

Stars are in our eyes as celebrities show their support for the home team in a series of photo shoots! Ranging from archery to gymnastics the stars flaunt their best assets and boost national morale!

Yes, it is absolutely frustrating when you are surrounded by drizzle,torrential downfall and eventually drowning in a flood! 

No need to panic, here are some top tips on how to keep your head above water!

1.Wax on, wax off:

Wax jackets are definitely a way to keep dry and trendy.  As country staple meets city style, it is definitely more than okay to wear this to the many festivals yet to be attended this year. 

2. Socks; 

We always remember the boots but its also time to remember the socks. Be a bit more adventurous and go for socks with loud patterns and stripes. Great for all boots including wellington boots.

3. Tea

Nothing has the ability to cheer you up like a nice sup of tea and some scones, or for the chocolate lovers, a hot cup of chocolate topped with cream and marshmallows.

4. And if you love your mascara - make it waterproof!

The cosmetics industry is teeming with waterproof make-up. However, the most essential during wet whether is waterproof mascara. Take special care in choosing the right one as some may cause irritation.