inmadrid november 2012 issue

2 NOVEMBER 2012 MADRID IN ENGLISH

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4 SCENE Whats new in town

5 MADWORLDTop Ten List: Titles and authors that spell out Madrid, Streetwise, Fairy Tales,Curiosity Shop

6 ENGLISH FOR INDEPENDENCEThe work of Madrid charity ADISLI, and its incorporation of the English language

6 ALL ROADS LEAD TO LA ROMANAA village project for integration and community spirit

7 FOR THE LOVE OF GOTH!The Semana Gtica de Madridliterature, art, fashion and music

8 TAKE FIVEThis months best film releases

8 BOOKBUZZDave Eggers A Hologram for the King, and Carol Shabens Into the Abyss

8 CONCERT HIGHLIGHTSNovember gigsThe Walkmen, The Black Keys, Sbastian Tellier and The xx

8 FOR THE RECORDThis months album reviewsBat for Lashes and Tame Impala

9 NIGHTLIFEThe best club nights inNovember, plus listings

10 MONTH AHEAD:ART & THEATREWhere to go and what to see

10 30 DAYS +50,000 WORDS = NATIONAL NOVEL-WRITINGMONTHMadrid writers prepare to write a novel in a month in connection with NaNoWriMo

11 TICKING ALL THE RIGHT BOXESInterview with hot UK band Lawson during their visit to Madrid

12 MIXED FEELINGSIs a relationship more difficult between people from different cultures?

PUBLISHED BY: CITYSCOPE S.L. (UNIPERSONAL)MANAGING DIRECTOR: NICK HAUGHTON EDITOR: JEFF WISEMAN DESIGN: KNIC MARKETING AND SALES: [email protected]

ADMIN: ELENA ORTIZ DISTRIBUTION: THE DARK RIDER ART: KELLY RUMMEL, LAURA TABOR MUSIC (REVIEWS): RUSSELL PARTON MUSIC (GIGS): FAYE HARRISON NIGHTLIFE: RICHARDLEWINGTON SCENE: VICKY KNILL, JANE PLEGGE, LAURA TABOR THEATRE: JANE PLEGGE, LAURATABOR INTERNS: LAURA STEPHENS, VICKY KNILL, POLLY ACKROYD, ALEXANDRA SHEFFIELD,KELLY RUMMEL, JANE PLEGGE, LAURA TABOR, GUILLERMO ULIBARRI, MARITZA MOSSBERG THANKS TO: NICK FUNNELL WEBMASTER: KNIC PRINT: IMCODAVILAViews expressed in InMadrid are the opinions of the writers and are not necessarily endorsed by thepublishers. Although we make every effort to quote the correct prices and openinghours for establishments mentioned in the magazine, it is possible some may have changed since wewent to press. All advertisements are published in good faith. InMadrid cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions in individual ads or acceptresponsibility for work, service or goods. InMadrid is published by CCiittyySSccooppee SSLL ((uunniippeerrssoonnaall)), c/Marqus de Valdeiglesias, 6-4A 28004 Madrid. Unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and artwork will not be returned unless accompanied by suffi-cient postage. D.L.: M-11696-96.

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scene BY JANE PLEGGE, VICKY KNILL AND LAURA TABOR

Join in with the British Consulates support ofthe Poppy AppealEvery year in the UK, the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month

marks a time of remembrance of all those who gave their lives fortheir country in conflicts past and present. Around this time, theUK charity The Royal British Legion organises the Poppy Appeal,offering the paper flowers to wear with pride in exchange for adonation.

The money raised goes to support serving members of theArmed Forces, veterans and their families including Britishnationals now living in Spain. Every year, the Consulate sup-plies boxes of poppies and collections tins to the British

Council, British schools, banks, social associations and StGeorges church in Madrid. Poppies are also available at

the British Consulate until 11 November.If you would like to donate to this worthy cause,

stop by the Torre Espacio for your poppy this year. Or, ifyou'd like to get more involved next year by helpingorganise the appeal or by selling poppies in yourworkplace or social group, please contact theConsulate at: [email protected]

Tips from the TowerHelpful monthly advice from the British Consulateoffice in P de la Castellanas Torre Espacio


Madrid Jazz FestivalThe 29th Madrid Jazz Festival brings music from more than tencountries to the city, with46 concerts from famousjazz names like PattiSmith, Silvia Prez Cruz,Paquito DRivera,Incgnito, Martirio andOmar Sosa. The threemain venues are theTeatro Fernn Gmez,Teatro Circo Price andCentro Conde Duque,although the AuditorioNacional hosts twoimportant concertsMichel Camilo y Tomatito,and the Chick Corea Trio.Madrid Jazz Festival, variouslocations, 6 Nov-2 Dec. Forfull details seewww.madridjazzfestival.es.

Teatro Valle-Incln:Una mirada del mundoThe Centro Dramtico Nacional, Spains equivalent of the UKsNational Theatre, finishes its programme Una mirada del mundo(A Look at the World) this month by presenting three further plays.The first, Las tres hermanas (The Three Sisters, 1-4 Nov) byAnton Chekhov, is directed by Declan Donnellan, and is presented

in Russian withSpanishsubtitles. En eltunel un pjaro(In the tunnel, abird, 8-11 Nov) isa Spanish dramaby PalomaPedrero abouteuthanasia, andlast but not leastis Bob (15-17Nov), a

production by the SITI company from the USA, directed by AnneBogart. The play is inspired by the words and work of Americanexperimental theatre director, Robert Wilson. Una mirada del mundo,Teatro Valle-Incln, Plaza de Lavapis, s/n (Metro: Lavapis/ Embajadores).Tel: 91 505 88 01. 1-17 Nov. See http://cdn.mcu.es/index.php/es

The British Ladies AssociationAnnual Charity BazaarThe British Ladies Associations Annual Charity Bazaar will beheld on Sunday, 25 Nov, and will include stalls selling nearly newclothes, Christmas food and cards, handicrafts, plus anenormous selection of secondhand books and toys. To keepeveryone fully refreshed, tea will be available throughout from atea stall, as well as plenty of cakes, snacks, sandwiches andnibbles. You can participate in a raffle with some wonderfulprizes, and of course Father Christmas will also be in attendancein this hugely popular event that raises funds to support anumber of Madrid charities. The British Ladies Association AnnualCharity Bazaar. Apartamentos Centro Norte, C/Mauricio Legendre, 16(between Plaza de Castilla and Chamartin Station). Parking available.Sun, 25 Nov. 12-6pm. Adults 3, children (ages 3-10) 1.

American Womens Club Holiday BazaarIf you would like to experience an American tradition, or arepining for a taste of the States, dont miss the AWC HolidayBazaar. With more than 60 vendors, you can make an early startto your gift-buying with unique artisan jewellery, beautifulhandmade ornaments and decorations, candles, knitted goods,toys, books and much more. Theres also great music, a photoopportunity with Santa, a raffle with great prizes and the chanceto nibble on some authentic American food, including cup cakes,brownies and breads. Funds raised go to local charities such asthe Asociacin de Acogida a Inmigrantes y Marginados(ACOGEM), Asociacin Infantil Oncolgica de la Comunidad deMadrid (ASION) and the Comedor Social San Simn de Rojasde Mstoles. American Womens Club Holiday Bazaar, HotelIntercontinental, Paseo de la Castellana, 49 (Metro: Gregorio Maraon).Sun, 18 Nov, 12-7pm. Adults 4, children, free. See www.awcmadrid.com,or tel 91 457 1108.

FeriarteThirty-five years of searching andcollecting have culminated inIFEMAs Feriarte, a fair of themost exclusive and prestigious artand antiques from an internationalpanorama. The show combinessome of the best antique dealersand gallery owners in Spain anddisplays a total of 18,000 piecesthat represent all cultures andcountries. These include furniture,classic antiques, watches,porcelain, silver, crystal, rugs,tapestries, African art, jewellery,scientific instruments, maps,paintings, and other artistic worksfrom all periods. Experts from distinct disciplines have confirmedthe value of every item, attesting to the unique and notableselection of objects presented. Feria de Arte y Antigedades. Feria deMadrid, Pavilion 3 (Metro: Campo de las Naciones). 17-25 Nov. Admission10, ticket valid for all days. See www.ifema.es/ferias/feriarte/default.html.

JaJaHa!Comedy in EnglishThe JaJaHa! English comedy group continue their monthly standup and improv show on the 15 and 30 November, starting at9pm. On the 15th, the group presents Freshly: Ole Stars Edition,which will introduce popular Spanish comedians who want tobranch out into English comedy, including Miky McPhantom,Pepn Fuentes, Denny Horror and Mou. On the 30th, its theirmonthly Freshly Squeezed session, which presents brand newmaterial every performance by the regular team of ToniRodriguez, Daire McGill, Dan Feist and Just Shaun. JaJaHa! 15 &30 Nov, 9pm. BeerStation, Cuesta de Santo Domingo, 22 (Metro: SantoDomingo). 15 Nov10 at the door, 5 in advance fromwww.atrapalo.com. 30 Nov14 at the door, 7 in advance atwww.atrapalo.com. For full details see www.freshlycomedy.com.

Madrid en DanzaThe Comunidad de Madrid presents the 27th edition of theannual international dance festival, Madrid en Danza this month.The festival will take place primarily at Los Teatros del Canal, buta new movable stage will allow performances to travel to othertheatres around Madrid. Twenty-one companies will deliver 53performances (seven of which will be world premieres)throughout the course of the festival, including internationalshows from Canada, France, the United States, the Netherlandsand Belgium. Madrid en Danza, various locations, 5 Nov-4 Dec. Ticketsfrom teatroscanal.com and entradas.com. For full details seewww.madrid.org/madridendanza/2012/index.html

5th festival de cine italiano de MadridSeeing the world through other European camera lenses onceagain becomes possible as the 5th festival de cine italiano deMadrid (5th Festival of Italian Film) returns to the city. Withshowings of various pictures, the events are free subject to

availability. This year promises the presence of Paolo and VittorioTaviani, Italian cinematographers known for their most recent filmCsar debe morir (Caesar Must Die) which won them the GoldenBear at the Berlinale festival this year and is the Italian candidatefor the Oscars. Organised by the Instituto Italiano de Cultura deMadrid, the festival will feature a large number of titles and takeplace at the Cine Verdi. Dont worry if you dont speak Italian; allmovies will have Spanish subtitles. 5th festival de cine italiano deMadrid. Cines Verdi, C/Bravo Murillo, 28. (Metro: Canal/Quevedo). 22-29Nov. See www.festivaldecineitalianodemadrid.com.

Campaa por la lanaThe international Campaapor la lana (Campaign forWool), an initiative to sharewith the public theenvironmental benefits ofusing wool, will come toMadrids Salamancaneighbourhood this month,with fun and creative piecesbeing knitted by enthusiasticwool-lovers. More than 100people from all around Spainhave worked and weavedtogether to decorate citystreets and promote thisnatural and renewable textile.Campaa por la lana, Salamancabarrio, 12-18 Nov. For full detailssee www.campaignforwool.es.

XII semana de la cienciaThe 12th edition of Madrids science week takes place thismonth. In numbers, there will be more than 400 participatinginstitutions and 2,000 scientists involved in 900 free activities.Visitors can attend guided tours, open houses, conferences,roundtables, debates, exhibitions and films concerning majortopics in science, archaeology, geology and architecture at amultitude of locations and spaces around the city. Specificthemes include The city of tomorrow: heritage and citizenship,Energy, environment and sustainable development and Space:territory and transport. XII Semana de la Ciencia, various locationsthroughout Madrid. 5-18 Nov. For full details and event registration, seewww.madrimasd.org/semanaciencia/2012/. Events free.

Kids Fun IdeasPaloma Irving and Carmen Torn were pioneers of English eventsfor children in Madrid, and in September they opened a new hubof Kids Fun Ideas at the Castellana Sports Club in Chamartinstation. The centre provides a diverse English programme, andspecial days in November include Paint your own Ceramics andFun Guided Tour of the Prado for Kids (both 10 Nov), plus amagic show, Magic in English (25 Nov). Centro Kids Fun Ideas(Castellana Sports Club), Estacin de Chamartin, 1a planta, Agustin deFoxa s/n. For further details, tel: 91 323 9687 or 649 954 642. Email:[email protected]. See also www.kidsfunideas.es.

CINEMADThe craziest cinema in history defines CINEMADs XIXIndependent and Cult Film Festival. Movies that have never beenseen in locations that never have been imagined will be shownwhile cutting-edge filmmakers participate actively to share theirvisions and opinions with other cinefiles. Highlights of the festivalinclude Spanish Guerrilla Cinema, a Dennis Hopper Marathon,Home Cinema (viewed in individuals' homes, we think) andpremieres of documentaries. Warning: this festival is not for thefaint-of-heart. CINEMAD, 16-25 Nov. 5 for a Carnet del Madklub passfor all screenings and events. For full details, see www.cinemad.org.

Intruso Bar AnniversaryOne of Madrids hottest independent live music venues, Intruso Baris celebrating one year on the Madrid music map this month, with astring of special concerts starting Thursday 15th with The SweetVandals. A good crowd and atmosphere guaranteed. Intruso Bar,C/Augusto Figueroa, 3opposite the Mercado de Fuencarral (Metro:Chueca/Gran Va). Tel: 91 531 89 96. For full details see www.intrusobar.com.

Revoltosataberna castizaAnother mention for this new bar on the block, the name of whichwe unfortunately managed to spell incorrectly last month asReveltosa. (We humbly claim we were thinking about revelling intheir highly recommended croquetas, which are fast becomingfamous.) Revoltosa, located just off Calle Barquillo near Gran Va,is a traditional taberna castiza reinvented with an industrialtouchgreat tapas and menu del da, and also a brunch at theweekend. Revoltosa, Plaza del Rey, 4 (Metro: Banco de Espaa/Chueca).Mon-Sun, 8.30am-2am.

Los DoceTenores, 12 good-

looking young guyswith fantastic voices,

come to the Teatro NuevoApolo from 7-18 Nov. Seewww.summummusic.com/

Chick Corea Trio Photo: Kris Campbell

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A Trendy Barrio by Mal OSanyer

Arrivals and Departures by Barack Assair-Port

Madrids Famous Celebration Point bySybil S Statchew

How to Protest by Manny Festation

Drinking and Partying in Madrid by Lala Tina Barrs

Madrids Famous Plazas by Solly Mayor

Driving Around Madrid by Emma Trenter

Madrids Great Football Stadium by Bernie Bayou

The Citys Best Barrio by Sally Manker

Madrids Bullring by Ben Tass

This charming shop is devoted to selling wonderful old postcards ofMadrid and many other secondhand articles related to Spanish traditionsOpened almost 30 years ago and located just a short distance from Chueca Metro station,this shop is one of the most emblematic and curious shops in the Chueca neighbourhood. Theestablishment sells (and buys!) secondhand postcards, both for collectors or people lookingfor an unusual reminder of Madrid. It has more than one million different postcards in stock,so allow plenty of time if you want to browse! The oldest one dates from 1892, and all arerelated to Spanish History and traditions. The majority are in black and white, showing gor-geous pictures of each period, with landmarks such as the Puerta del Sol, Gran Va, PlazaMayor, Retiro Park, or the Royal Palace. Its a great way to discover how those famous placeslooked in the past century and the cards make a lovely, authentic and quite inexpensive sou-venir to take home from the city. There are plenty of other Spanish cities represented too, as

well as pictures of Spanish folklore, like Semana Santa or the grape harvest, and even ones about sports, like football or cycling. Besidespostcards, Casa Postals other specialities are antique photographs and engravings. As time has progressed, the shop has incorporatedmore articles, like toys and dolls, metallic boxes, and advertising posters of typical Spanish products. All in all, an authentic trip to the(Spanish) past is possible by venturing into this chaotic but irresistable shop in the very heart of Madrid.

CCaassaa PPoossttaall,, CC//LLiibbeerrttaadd,, 3377.. ((MMeettrroo:: CChhuueeccaa)).. TTeell:: 9911 553322 7700 3377.. MMoonn--FFrrii,, 1100aamm--22ppmm;; 55--77..4455ppmm;; SSaatt,, 1111aamm--22ppmm.. SSeeeewwwwww..ccaassaappoossttaall..nneett..

By Jerome Apolda

BY CAMINO MARTNEZ

In the stretch between Plaza Mayor and Sol rests a street that was oncethe starting point for post sent across Spain. Coach chairs set off from

the post office in Calle de Postas for all corners of the peninsula,and although not closely linked to the streets postal past, the storyof a nobleman who suffered an unfortunate drenching in the streethas a cheery moral. The event took place in the 16th century, whena disgusting habit of the night was to empty water pots and buck-

ets from balconies onto the streets below. Well leave it to your imagina-tion as to what the buckets contained, but a mix of liquids and solids probablywasnt unusual. While walking down the street after an audience with King

Felipe II, nobleman Bernardino de Obregn got more than he bargained forfrom a balcony above. Covered with a bucket of filth, he found his fine suit wasruined. However, rather than avenging his misfortune on the bucket-tipper, the nobleman had an epiphany aboutthe hollowness of worldly pomp and circumstance. Instead, he decided to lead a life of charity and example that hetook with him into later hospital work, spending 20 years working with those who were sick in Madrid.Inspiration from on high? Perhaps! JENNA EBERSOLE

CASA POSTALCuriosity Shop BY CAMINO MARTNEZ

Cibeles Statue Photo (CC) flickr: mahatsorri

FFaaiirryy TTaalleessThe End is NighBlacking out is, to some, a rite of passage that turns a boyinto a man. Ive never been a heavy drinker, never havingfound bingeing that appealing to start with, but rites ofpassage are what they are and you cannot escape them.

I remember the American movie, The Hangover, inwhich a bachelor party wakes up in a bashed-up hotelroom; theres a chicken and a tiger with them, a baby in acloset, and one of the party is not only missing a tooth buthas somehow got married. I wish mine had been that easy.

I woke up in my own bed, my head thumping continu-ously, feeling as though my entire body was made ofcemented goo, with my eyeballs swollen up and about readyto explode in their sockets; even breathing had becomeunnatural. I lay still, unable and unwilling to move, staringat the ceiling, begging the Greek Gods to let me go back tosleep. But those unreliable bastards spared me no mercyand I was made to suffer every lasting minute of agony.

A voice called out my name in a trembling whisper. Inmy semi-delirious statewas I still drunk?I thoughtHypnos had heard my plea. But the voice, as sweet asAmbrosia, also had a breath that tickled my neck. I man-aged to turn my head, slowlyvery slowly

Some of you will know what it feels like to wake up inbed, the morning after the night before, with someone whoshouldnt be there. Much like Christmas morning, you areswaying between anticipation and apprehension. Usually,however, the atrocity humping your leg makes you gag.There are exceptions, few, very few and sometimes, onlysometimes, its Robert Pattinson.

So I turned my head, half excited, half dreading, andthen wished I had never looked.

There, naked, all smiles, was probably the greatest mis-take of my life and I had no recollection of what had hap-penednot one! I stare blankly at the naked body, at itsgolden milky softness, at its curves, the lips curled up andsmiled, the eyes sparkling, with one hand landed on mychest. I jumped, quivered and shrieked all at once. I dontthink I had ever been as camp as I was at that moment. Ipointed my finger at it and screamed, a a woman!

A woman whose perky breasts seemed to stare at meaccusingly; a woman swimming in after-sex glow; a womanI had had intercourse with.

I slithered away from her and ended up falling out ofbed. I was naked too, my bum-cheeks freezing against thelino. And thats when I saw it, under the bedthe evidenceof our fornication. A freshly-used condom! I screamedmuch like a hyperactive thirteen year-old would on findingout that one of the One Direction members had died.

I was paralysed, unable to move or to articulate athought. She kept telling me to stop being silly and to comeback to bed, and she called me Honey! I felt sick. I wantedher to get out. I wanted her to have never happened. I want-ed my mates to burst in the room and shout out that it wasa joke. But most of all, I wanted to wake up from this night-mare. I could feel the cold of the floor, the soreness of mylimbs, but this was no dream. Id had sex with a woman!

She sat up, her entire body in full view.I saw her bits and fainted...

To be continued next month in The End is Here.

LLoovvee FFaaiirryy TTaalleess?? MMiisssseedd aann iissssuuee?? GGoo ttoo wwwwww..jjeerroommee--aappoollddaa..ccoomm.. OOrr jjooiinn mmee oonn ffaacceebbooookk..

There are countless books about Spains capital city, but Jeff Wisemanfeels the following would be a perfect combination of subject and writer:

TToopp tteenn ttiittlleess aanndd aauutthhoorrsstthhaatt ssppeellll oouutt MMaaddrriidd



Were the same as you, we just need supportand your understanding of our situation is howElena Jimnez Martn, Director of Projects andCommunication, defines the message of the peo-

ple being helped by ADISLI. The charity gives individualswho have a light intellectual disability or limited intelli-gence all the support possible so that they can live the lifethey wantbeing happy, having friends, going out. Thisyear, for the first time, activities with an English themehave been included in its programmes.

Elena describes ADISLI as a place where many dreamscome true. Started 15 years ago by five families, the chari-ty now assists nearly 200 in fulfilling their childrensdreams. The importance and need of its work are shown bythe 50-strong waiting list for its services. Those who start-ed the organisation were looking for a more specialised edu-cation for their children, Elena explains. ADISLI nowoffers a global and comprehensive programme of personaldevelopment that consists of detecting a persons necessitiesin a given moment of their lives. The courses includeimproving ones personal autonomy, training for employ-ment, and a wide range of leisure activities, especially thosewhich encourage participants to make friends and socialise.

Counting on EnglishADISLI relies very much on volunteers, one of whom isMarie Rogers. Marie started working with the charity fiveyears ago and goes out with a group every Saturday, whenher role is to make sure theyre safe, but also to insist ontheir autonomy. She explains that one of the hardest chal-lenges for any ADISLI group is that, when they go out intosociety, they dont appear to have any obvious disabilities.Members of the public can be quite impatient, and you dontwant to have to highlight the disability to make peopleunderstand. My objective is that the participants are notdependent on me. Im just there to make sure nobody takes

advantage of them. If theres a crisis, then I can deal with it.Maries Saturday outings with her group gave rise to

curiosity about English. I use English to count the kids,and it generated interest in the language, and the idea ofgoing to London arose. So I spoke with my husband, Mark,whos a schoolteacher from Kings College in Tres Cantos,and we said wed be happy to take a group. ADISLI organ-ised a party of 12 adults, and we went to London for sixdays in August last year. It was incredible.

Rather than emphasising English, the trip was anopportunity to travel for ADISLI members, something thatmany had never done. Although Marie found taking 12adults with learning deficiencies to London, at the heightof the tourist season, very stressful, everything went wellthanks to her familiarity with the city, the positive attitudeand enthusiasm of those who took part, and there beingnot a moment that wasnt choreographed.

London comes to MadridThis year, London came to Madrid with the creation of theweek-long Big Ben Summer Camp Programme. I wantedto do something that focused on using English for fun, as

opposed to learning English as you do at school, but withan ulterior ADISLI purposeto improve the possibility ofobtaining work for the people that took part. Marie andher husband devised a day camp, which was based in anapartment owned by the charity, to use English while alsoencouraging group work and communication skills.

Juan, who is currently attending ADISLIs employmentprogramme, was one of the 11 members of Big Ben anddescribes it as learning English but in a more enjoyableway. He adds, we played a lot of games and everybodyhad a really good time, learning new things. Those thingsincluded how to make biscuits, although Juan admits thetruth is they didnt turn out very well and nobody really

wanted to eat themnobody! The next time we made bis-cuits they turned out better. Juan writes a blog, whichElena says has a lot of seguidoras (female fans), and therehe gave a day-by-day summary of the English-themedevents. These included a visit to an art exhibition and anEnglish food store, and lunch at the James Joyce pub.

Stage by stageIn his blog, Juan also wrote about the preparations for aDiamond Jubilee party, to which the Queen was apparentlyinvited, and the rumour that Her Majesty made an appear-ance has yet to be unmasked. Juans enthusiastic descrip-tions show that the camp was a great success. There wasa voluntary day to which all the group turned up, com-ments Marie, if people come to you when they dont haveto, its a good sign.

Big Ben is the first phase of a three-stage plan ofEnglish activities, both language and cultural, at ADISLI.Stage two will run until March. The activities include visit-ing more exhibitions, a possible theatre workshop with theMadrid Players and a show by an English magician. Mariehopes that stages one and two will provide a good base forstage three, the ultimate goal of Big Ben, which will be atrip to either Manchester or Edinburgh with autonomyand self-sufficiency as the objective.

The show must go onAll this great work does not happen on its own, and bothElena and Marie highlight the importance of volunteers.It would be great if there were Brit or English-speakingvolunteers, who have skills and would be prepared to givean afternoon to participate and teach something, saysMarie. For example, teaching origami or cooking inEnglish with a group of ADISLI adults. Or even just com-ing along and playing board games to make it more aboutBritain in Madrid, about finding culture without having togo abroad. She describes the volunteering as veryrewarding because you go with a group, see them matureand see them learn something that, when you first met,they didnt know how to do. With the help of volunteers,ADISLI will be able to continue making dreams come truelong into the future.

For more information or to help, visit www.adisli.org. ADISLI are currently seeking a change of premises, andits fund-raising page is www.en2012nospiramos.org.Also, Juans blog is elrincondejasmusatl.blogspot.com.es

xpatriates have a choice: they canstick with their own kind or minglewith the locals. The majority opt forthe former, but in La Romana, asmall village in the ComunidadValenciana, Alan Cooks pioneering

spirit of assimilation is contributing greatly to thecommunity.

Alan, who came to the village eight years ago,takes pride in his brainchild Amigos de la Romana,a legally registered Spanish charity, which was offi-cially opened by Paul Rodwell, the British Consul,in February 2012. Integration is the key word,Alan says with an air of confidence. The term has aresonance for him, and would reverberate through-out our interview.

Land and peopleLa Romana, lying forty kilometres inland fromAlicante, is neatly laid out. Standing 450 metresabove sea level, it offers stress-free tourism for thewhole family. Even retirees can take life at a slowerpace and grow old gracefully in this tranquil loca-tion. The interesting sights include the 20th-centurySan Pedro church (opened in April, 1910), arestored washhouse and three hermitages. One ofthem is consecrated to Madrids Patron Saint, SanIsidro, since La Romana has always been an agri-cultural town and San Isidro was a ploughman whotoiled in the fields and performed miracles.

Alan drives me to an old edifice, La Casa delPueblo, and unlocks the door of the ground floor.La Casa del Pueblo was built nearly a hundredyears ago by the village and paid for by the vil-

lagers. It is very sentimental and historical for LaRomana today, he explains. I am very passionateabout this village. For the last two years, MayorManuel Hernndez Riquelme and I have been try-ing different ways of integrating the foreign nation-als with the Spanish residents here. British andAmerican DVDs, amongst other articles, are neatlystacked on various shelves.

Help on handAlan notices that my attention is drawn to a wheel-chair in a corner. The way we can help all resi-dents, and the communities in the area that are dis-abled, is to supply them with the necessary equip-ment to give them a better way of life. And also theservices they may need if, for example, they arecoming out of hospital and their partners cannotcope with the situation.

I set my eyes on a lot of official forms on atable, and my burning curiosity is answered atonce. This location also doubles as a visitors cen-tre and a charity shop. It is where residents fromsurrounding areas can come and gather the infor-mation required to live in Spain or to get help withany paperwork. This is the way we can go for-wardto integrate all the people within our commu-nity.

Shops and salesIn Madrid, the oldest and the most successfulBritish fund raising organisation is The BritishLadies charity shop located in Las Rozas. Theireagerly awaited annual Bazaar has also been atremendous success over the years. Foreigners as

well as Spanish people come out in droves to seekbargains and blend with the English ambiance. TheAmigos de La Romana is designed to operate in asimilar way. The association was formed to helppeople within our community and the surroundingareas who have disabilities or need attention in

many ways. On the coast we always see variouscharities that help those in need. Inlandwell, its a bit different. Alans voice bears a concerning tone,and he pauses like an actor on the stage. So oneof the most important things for this village is onesingle wordintegration.

Although beneficent stores are not common-place in Spain, charity shops have recently been

opened in the middle-class districts and in the out-lying areas south of Madrid, where most of the for-eign nationals with low incomes set up homes. InLa Romana, Alan and Manuel launched the veryfirst boot sale, and English auctions are also heldfour times a year to raise money for the Amigosproject. Both Spanish and English residents havelanguage exchange classes too.

Community careWe head to a new charity store for secondhandgoods. The chic attire and handbags in the windowdisplay lend elegance and class to the entrance,leading to an immaculate new room with almostnew apparel on hangers.

The interview concludes on an anticipative note.As you can see we have one motto hereWorking together to make a better future. Wehave a crisis in Europe. We have a crisis in theworld. And we need to work together in harmony tomake sure that we have a better life within ourcommunity. Expatriates take note.

For information about La Romana,including fiestas, gastronomy andhiking, see www.laromanaalicante.com.Alan Cooks project website isamigosdelaromana.com. Email:[email protected]

For The British Ladies Charity Shop, seerastrillobeneficobla.blogspot.com.es/p/bla.html The Christmas Bazaar takes placeon 25 Nov. See this months page 4.

Members of ADISLI

Yhe Mayor, Manuel Hernndez Riquelme, with Alan Cook

English for independenceThe Madrid charity ADISLI (Asociacin para la Atencin de Personas con DiscapacidadIntelectual Ligera e Inteligencia Lmite) has started to use English as a learning tool for itsmembers. Polly Ackroyd visits its office to find out more

All roads lead to La RomanaIts not just Madrid where expatriates are involved in charities. Namron Relm reports from La Romana,a village near Alicante, where a project by Englishman Alan Cook is looking to help all local residents

e

A rare appearance?

aving identified a problem not only inMadrid, but in Spain, Marjorie Eljachdecided to rectify it. Gothic literature hasalways been one of my favourite styles, sheexplains, but in the capital, and the coun-try as a whole, there was no event dedicat-ed to Gothic culture. To remedy the situa-

tion Eljach initiated a festival, primarily dedicated toliterature, but one that has now grown into a week-long exploration and celebration of Gothic art andlifestyle. Year after year we have grown both in con-tent and participation of relevant artists, she contin-ues proudly.

Because of the interest and response from the pub-lic, the Festival programme has designated sections foreach Gothic aspect: Plataforma G is dedicated to fash-ion, Teatrfico focuses on the arts, Ventana Oscura(Dark Window) explores audiovisual representations,and the SGMFest celebrates one of the key parts ofurban Gothic culturemusic. What makes the festi-val particularly engaging is not simply what is seen,but what is discussed. Each section focuses not onlyon activity but also analysis through conferences andtalks, Eljach adds. In fact, this year SGM will haveits first academic conference on art, literature andurban Gothic culture.

Going GothicThe objectives areto keep themovement alivethrough its artis-tic manifestationsand to promoteand disseminatethem, not onlyamong the Gothiccommunity, butto the public atlarge. Last year,events were heldat the Museo delRomanticismo,but this year, inorder to accomplish its aims, SGM has extended thevenues to include the Centro Cultural Conde Duque,the Museo Lzaro Galdiano, and a congress at theUniversidad Autnoma de Madrid. Because eachactivity has its own weight and its own audience, theorganisers are dedicated to maintaining a balanceamongst all areas of interest.

When pressed for the most anticipated event, Eljachdiplomatically explains that since Gothic week hasdifferent types of audiences in each of its sections, itsnot possible to say that one event is more anticipatedthan any other. Whats her favourite aspect? As cre-ator and director, naturally I like absolutely every-thing, she smiles, but if there is something that

excites me, its to see how each year our audienceincreases and people of all ages attend. This may beinterpreted as saying that there is something foreveryone, but Eljach provides further insight intoGothic style: We all have something Gothic inside;were all attracted to the unknown. The Gothicbrings us out of everyday life and into these otherworlds which only exist thanks to literature, cinemaand art.

From the shadowsSo how exactly is the Gothic defined? Answers tothat question can vary enormously, but there aresome elements that hold true for all themes.Combined in any number of ways and ratios, twoingredients appear to be necessaryhorror andromance. Initially (just like SGM itself) the Gothicwas based in literature. It began as a literary style inthe 18th century with Horace Walpoles 1764 novel,The Castle of Otranto, then sustained its literarypopularity throughout the 19th and 20th centuries,particularly in British and American novels. Theappeal of horror mixed with romance permeated intomusic and fashion by the late 20th century. Goth rock,which began as an off-shoot from the post-punk move-ment, combines darkness with romance in both itsaudio and visual components.

Gothic fashion tends to include elements fromgothrock, punk and Victorian English style, almostexclusively in dark colours contrasted with peeks ofalabaster white. While there are no hard and fastrules as to what may meet the term, there should bean air of darkened mystery, a secret to uncover, a loveto be conquered. The writings of Washington Irving,Edgar Allen Poe, Anne Rice; the films of Tim Burton;the sounds of The Cureall qualify as participants inthe Gothic tradition.

Type setEljach ensures that The Semana Gtica Madrid is acultural, academic and multidisciplinary event, anoccasion to explore both classic and contemporaryGothic culture, to see the work of artists, enjoy shortfilms, concerts and conferences with experts on cinemaand literature, and participate in workshops allframed in the Gothic style. The attraction is spelledout even more dramatically on the Festivals blogspot:Those who love the Gothic world of vampires, were-wolves, ghosts, and spirits both free and tormented.Lovers of the night, and those who believe in magic,fairies and fantastic creatures.

If youve never visited the Festival, LarissaRamirez, a dedicated attendee for the last three years,offers some advice. If youre planning to go, I wouldsuggest reading some literature first, especially EdgarAllan Poe, because I love his work, she says. The fes-tival music is always goodnowadays, most music is

plastic and highly marketedif you dont see it on TVor on facebook, it doesnt exist. Perhaps all this globali-sation is opposite to Gothic philosophy. We need agreater Gothic tradition in Spain.

Coming soonAfter three successful years, SGM 2012 is poised todeliver big. Opening night alone will include a fashionand a burlesque show, and in the days that follow,there will be art shows, film screenings, lectures on lit-erature and cinema, and music featuring artists likeMerciful Nuns, The Beauty of Gemina andJoy/Disaster. If vampires are your fancy, two literatureprofessors, Antonio Ballesteros and Ana Gonzlez-Fernndez, will be discussing Bram Stoker, the enig-matic author of Dracula.

For those interested in delving into Gothic film, con-sider the discussion featuring psychologist Luis Muioand the screenwriter Carlos Garca Miranda, duringwhich they will be tackling the question Are the fansof horror movies crazy? Join them while they analysethe psychological profile of moviegoers who prefer sus-pense and horror films, and explore the social andmedia prejudices they have been exposed to through-out the history of cinema. All events are in Spanish, sothe Festival as a whole is a chance to don yoursharpest all-black outfit, sharpen your language skillsand descend into the dark and demonic Gothic realm.


h

The fourth annual Semana Gtica Madrid will allow the city to explore a darker side this month. Kelly Rummel speaks to the Festivals direc-tor, Marjorie Eljach, and looks at Gothic literature, fashion and music

Photo (CC) flickr: SoulStealer_co_uk11

Marjorie Eljach

For the love of Goth!

The Semana Gtica Madrid runs from 17 Nov-1 Dec. For the full programme, see www.semanagoticademadrid.com

music

Hotel Transylvania An animated comedyabout a swanky retreat where monstersgo to get away from it all. On the occa-sion of his daughter Maviss (voiced bySelena Gmez) birthday, proprietorDracula (Adam Sandler) invites his ghoul-ish palsFrankenstein, the Mummy, theInvisible Man, and the Werewolf familyto help celebrate, only for a human to turnup and spoil his plans. Out now

Skyfall A bleached blond Javier Bardemis the villain in Daniel Craigs third JamesBond outing, directed by Brit SamMendes. A list of undercover MI6 agents isleaked, and 007 is shot and believeddead, as a figure from Ms (Judi Dench)past returns to torment her. Ralph Fiennes, Brenice Marlohe, Noemie Harris,Ben Whishaw and Albert Finney also star. 31 Oct

The Twilight Saga: Breaking DawnPart 2 (La saga crepsculo:Amanecer. Parte 2) Twilights last gleam: the series based on the novels byStephenie Meyer comes to a close with all-out war as Bella (Kristen Stewart)now a vampire herselfhubbie Edward (Robert Pattinson) and their gifteddaughter Renesmee are threatened by the Volturi clan. 16 Nov

Holy Motors Hailed as one of the best, and most bonkers, movies of 2012,French director Leos Caraxs first film in 13 years follows a man (his regularstar Denis Lavant) adopting a variety of disguises as he is chauffeured aroundParis to a series of surreal appointments, including encounters with air hostessKylie Minogue and model/actress Eva Mendes. 16 Nov

Alex Cross Tyler Perry steps into the role of author James Pattersons psychol-ogist-detective, formerly played by Morgan Freeman in Kiss the Girls and AlongCame a Spider. In this adaptation of the 12th book in the series, he finds himselfon the trail of ruthless soldier-turned-serial killer Picasso (Matthew Fox). 16 Nov

Bat For Lashes The Haunted Man ParlophoneWith two Mercury-nominated albums alreadyunder her belt, Natasha Khan, aka Bat forLashes, has yet to deliver a dud. And the stakesfor her latest, The Haunted Man, were raisedeven higher following the summer release of sin-gle Laura, a stripped-back piano ballad with anemotion-packed chorus ideal for those lets getserious now moments at gigs. Elsewhere, tight-ly wrought beats anchor the visceral flow ofKhans vocals (comparisons with Kate Bush are

not far off the mark) while the pastoral, folk world they describe ispaired with carefully textured synths and jerky rhythmical touches.Amid the clinking bottle tops and the occasional cranking sound of aguitar on All Your Gold, Khan tells how an attachment to a pastlover means she has no treasure left for the good man of the pre-sent, while in the galloping chorus of Horses for the Sun shes defi-antly busting out the heavens. Strong thematic ideas meet simpleverse-chorus structures, cleverly arranged using an arsenal of elec-tronic sounds and off-kilter introductions that throw you off thescent (the all male choir of Oh Yeah especially) while synth hooksprovide an extra focus, ensuring you wont get bored in a hurry.

Tame Impala Lonerism ModularLiving in Perth, Australia, suits Kevin Parker andhis retro-futuristic neo-psychedelic outfit, TameImpala. The city is ranked as the most remote inthe worldthe next metropolis is 2000kmawayand new album Lonerism (appropriatelytitled) comes from some equally far out place, orat least far out in the mind. Anyway, the spaceage, swirling production and stereo-panningeffects are best heard loudly so good speakersand some tolerant neighbours would be a bonus.

You may even make friends by doing so, as Lonerism boasts someserious earworms, like the orbiting outro to Mind Mischief or thesynth wigout on Elephant (which sounds suspiciously like a bunchof stoners playing the theme to the 80s TV show Airwolf). Its not infact a million miles from the pastoral British psychedelia of TheKinks or Syd Barretts Pink Floyd, although without the knowingwinks. Endors Toi is typical of the albums dreamy groove, heavyon the drum rolls and with the bass played high and melodically,while on Apocalypse Dreams it threatens to become a lead instru-ment, soloing over a shoe-gaze guitar melange. Lonerism is one ofthe surprises of the year (in a good way).

RRuusssseellll PPaarrttoonn gets out his olives and tells us what weshould, or shouldnt, be listening to

for the concerts

The Black KeysWed, 28 Nov, 9.30pm. Palacio de los Deportes, Avenida Felipe II, s/n(Metro: Goya/O Donnell). Tel. 91 444 99 49. www.palaciodedeportes.com.Tickets from 36 from www.ticketmaster.es

Grammy award-winningAmerican duo TheBlack Keys haveexperimented with bitsof rap, pop and garagerock since they gottogether in 2001. Butwhat they play loudestand best during con-certs is stripped-down blues. The two childhoodmates who make up the group have a special bondthat they transmit perfectly through their music, giv-ing listeners a peek into minds that are full of influ-ences from blues greats such as Hound Dog Taylor torappers Wu Tang Clan. 2010s album Brothers cata-pulted them into the limelight all over the world withits mix of raw riff tracks and collaborations with leg-endary hip hop producer Danger Mouse, but listen toAct Nice and Gentle from 2004s live album RubberFactory in order to grasp the real essence of whatthis band promises to bring to Madrid.

The xxTues, 13 & Wed, 14 Nov, 8pm. P Bajo de La Virgen, s/n (Metro: Puerta del ngel/Prncipe Po). Tel: 91 365 2415. www.salariviera.com/. Tickets 28 from www.ticketmaster.es

The bands biography on facebook reads, It all started in a bedroom in South WestLondon, after school, drinking too much Pepsi, but from their humble beginningsjust four years ago, London based indie group The xx have flown to internationalsuccess. Their debut album, xx, achieved universal acclaim and ranked highly on many Best of 2009 lists,including the number one spot in The Guardian, and second place in NME. They picked up the Mercury MusicPrize a year later, and their second album, Coexist, was released this year. Members Oliver, Romy and Jamie willbe performing in Madrid on two dates this month showcasing their interpretation of experimental/indie-fuseddance pop which has inspired anthems such as the dreamy Intro and euphoric Angels. RICHARD LEWINGTON

Sbastien TellierSat, 10 Nov, 9pm. Sala But C/de Barcel, 11 (Metro: Tribunal). Tel:91 445 5861. Tickets 22 from www.ticketmaster.es

French Eurovisioncontestant SbastienTellier didnt do verywell with his 2008entry Divine, butdont let that deteryou from his con-certalthough hedidnt follow inABBAs footsteps, there are still plenty of reasonswhy you should go and see this guy. Born in Paris,Tellier makes a mixture of down-tempo pop, elec-tronic and ambient music that has been used tosoundtrack not one but two of Sofia Coppolasfilms. His second studio album Politics (2005)contains the enchanting and not to be missed LaRitournelle, a beautiful string-led track that reallyshows off his sophisticated talent as a composerand songwriter. With performances given inFrench, English and Italian and a range of tunesjust as diverse, be sure not to miss this interest-ing and musically fearless character.

The WalkmenThurs, 8 Nov, 9.30pm. Sala Marco Aldany, c/Princesa, 1 (Metro: Plaza de Espaa). Tel: 91542 3439. Tickets 22 from www.ticketmaster.es.

Washington-born but New York-based indie rockers The Walkmenreleased their first EP in 2001 and have gone from strength tostrength ever since. Fans of vintage sounds, the quintet dont skipon instrumentation and promise to fill the stage with just as manyretro guitars and pianos as they do noise. Though they burst onto the scene with a more raucous soundthat was appreciated for its loud instability, with their last two albums (Lisbon, 2010 and Heaven, 2012)they have moved into a gentler and more tender field that has allowed them to experiment with warmorchestral melodies and really let front man Hamilton Leithausers voice and lyrics shine. Check out thetrack Stranded and whistle yourself to the gig on the 8th!

BY FAYE HARRISON

NNiicckk FFuunnnneellll sseelleeccttss tthhee bbeesstt mmoovviieess ttoo sseeee tthhiiss mmoonntthh

Into the AbyssCarol Shaben MacmillanIn 1984, a smallcommuter plane car-rying ten peopletook off in worrying-ly bad weather forremote communitiesin northern Canada.The plane crashedin thick, almostinaccessible, forest,and six of the tenpassengers lost theirlives. Four survived,and Into the Abyssis the story of thosesurvivors, from thetraumatic momentof the crash, theirexperience awaitingrescue, the publicityand investigation that followed, and how the eventchanged their lives forever. The survivors were notfriendsthey were strangers from different back-grounds, which adds to the attraction of the tale aseach deals with the tragedy in his own way. TheresErik, a young pilot who had never wanted to takeoff in such appalling conditions in the first place;Scott, a rookie cop who had removed the handcuffsthat were keeping his prisoner, Paul, attached tohim. Paul was the only person to escape relativelyunscathed. And Larry, a respected politician andfamily man. Larrys daughter, Carol, is the authorof the book, and spent many years researching thestory and interviewing those who were connected toit in any way. The result is an in-depth tale of notonly the crash, but of the causes, reactions and out-comes. What makes for particularly interestingreading is the story of the four survivors after theincident, which touches on unlikely heroes, changesof fortune, and further tragedy. Unlike the movies,in real life, sometimes a rescue is just a beginning.

TIM INKLING

A Hologram for the KingDave EggersMcSweeneysLike the arid landscapes ofSaudi Arabia that itdescribes, A Hologram forthe King starts quietly,describing mild and defeat-ed Alan Clay as he begins astay in Jeddah while wait-ing to make a sales presen-tation that could eitherbreak him entirely or gethim back on his feet finan-cially. At first, the charac-ters self-pitying attitudeand constant introspectionare overly dry, but by per-sisting with the early chap-ters, you start to feel for theguy, and may, by the end,discover that Alan Clay represents many of the elements ofmodern America. The book shows itself to be about a waitingtime, but it isnt devoid of action; rather, nostalgia and actionwork alongside each other, and Dave Eggers writes about thestruggles of middle age without flinching. Along the way, thebook unfolds a view of modernity and postmodernity, how theold and the new often clash, especially in a liminal space likethe King Abdullah Economic City. Youll find yourself in aboat speeding around the Red Sea, in a car that might ormight not be rigged to a bomb, on a hunt for a rogue wolf,and much more. A Hologram for the King was recently afinalist for the National Book Award 2012 in the UnitedStates, the winner of which will be announced this month.

LAURA TABOR

record


Rock / Pop

BOGUI JAZZ, C/Barquillo, 29 (Metro:Chueca). Tel: 91 521 15 68.www.boguijazz.com.1 Nov: Gilad Atzmon Trio2 Nov: Zas! Tro3 Nov: Jornada Conexin Blues7 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Jerry BergonziQuartet8 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ghost TownQuartet9 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Bob Sands &Santiago Caada Quintet10 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Chris Kase Sextet13 Nov: X Mostra Portuguesa: MarcoRodrigues15 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ciclo Jazz enSeis Cuerdas: Greg Diamond Quartet 16 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ciclo Jazz enSeis Cuerdas: Albert Vila Quarter17 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ciclo Jazz enSeis Cuerdas: Joaqun Chacn Cuarteto 19 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: GeorgeGaranians Krasnodar Big Band22 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ciclo 3Mujeres, 3 Estilos, 3 Noches: SeagramsOriginal Session: Melissa Aldana Trio23 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ciclo 3Mujeres, # Estilos, 3 Noches: Quinteto CovaVillegas24 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Ciclo 3Mujeres, # Estilos, 3 Noches: WendyOedersen & Bobby Martnez Quartet28 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Bob Sands Big Band30 Nov: Festival Jazz Madrid: Kool & Cole (ATribute to Nat King Cole)

SALA CARACOL, c/Sebastin Elcano, 18(Metro: Embajadores). Tel: 91 527 3594. www.salacaracol.com1 Nov: Drum Wars, Vinny Appice & CarmineAppice2 Nov: Y & T + Invited artist8 Nov: Makarines and Junior Miguez, specialcollaboration of Aurora Losada and Habana Abierta9 Nov: Bonabarte + Time Fite10 Nov: Vega11 Nov: Kamelot + Xandria + Triosphere +Blackguard15 Nov: Rhapsody, Vexillum + Orden Ogan +Freedom Call 16 Nov: THERAPY?22 Nov: The Rasmus + The Dirty Youth30 Nov: Two Gallants

CENTRAL CAF, Plaza del Angel, 10(Metro: Sol/Antn Martn). Tel: 91 36941 43. www.cafecentralmadrid.com 1-4 Nov: Virm5-11 Nov: Antonio Serrano & Federico Lechner Do16 Nov: Jose Luis Gutierrez Band12-18 Nov: Lucrecia & Jos Luis Gutirrez BandSALA CLAMORES, c/Albuquerque, 14 (Metro:Bilbao). Tel: 91 445 79 38. www.salaclamores.com1 Nov: Dayna Kurtz, Connie Philp y Cia.2 Nov: Guadalupe Plata3 Nov: Salva Ortega, Carvin Jones4 Nov. Fran Fernndez, Natali Castilo y EstherZecco; Cellar Bird5 Nov. Dados Rodando 50 aos con los RollingStones6 Nov: Tributo a Coltrane7 Nov: Tributo a Coltrane8 Nov: Benny Golson Quartet, La CooperativaRemolachera + Hit The Road Band

9 Nov: Benny Golson Quartet10 Nov: Odojazz, Benny Golson Quartet11 Nov: Carmen Linares y Ca, La Legans BigBand12 Nov: Ara Malikian & Fdo. Egozcue Qt.

13 Nov: Ara Malikian & Fdo. Egozcue Qt.14 Nov: Pavel Urquiza y Descarga Subterranea15 Nov: Los Mustang 16 Nov: Cnovas, Adolfo y Guzmn17 Nov: Vipers Hot Swing, Natalia Dicenta &Jos Manuel Villacaas, Metro Big Band18 Nov: Natalia Dicenta & Jos Manuel Villacaas19 Nov: Lunes Alverso20 Nov: Fiesta XXXI Aniversario21 Nov: Christian Scott Quintet22 Nov: Christian Scott Quintet23 Nov: Gino Paoli & Danilo Rea24 Nov: Neck To Neck25 Nov: Elsa Baesa, Jos Manuel Villacaas Tro26 Nov: Babel Ruz27 Nov: Dona Rosa28 Nov: De Cerca con Los Secretos29 Nov: Cuntico + Mirmonos30 Nov: Pedro Iturralde Qt.

COSTELLO CLUB, c/Caballero de Gracia,10 (Metro: Gran Va). Tel: 91 522 18 15. www.costelloclub.com1 Nov: We Were Dawsons + Jack Knife2 Nov: Marta Tchai3 Nov: Romero7 Nov: Promotores por un da: Caf de Chinitas8 Nov: Trestrece9 Nov: Mi Animal10 Nov: I Am Dive11 Nov: H2Soul15 Nov: Pop and Dance Small 16 Nov: VII Aniversario Costello Club: Costello Jam17 Nov: VII Aniversario Costello Club: Conciertosorpresa21 Nov: Fred Perry 5212 Festival: Wilhelm & TheDancing Animals + Pasajero + Rufus T. Firefly22 Nov: Fred Perry 5212 Festival: Rusos Blancos+ Ornamento y Delito + Modelo de Respuesta 23 Nov: Fred Perry 5212 Festival: La Casa Delrbol + Los ltimos Baistas + Coffee & Wine24 Nov: Rick in Up-Fest: Tumba Swing + OneHands Man Band29 Nov: Ukelele Clan band 30 Nov: Dardem

SALA GALILEO GALILEI, c/de Galileo,100 (Metro: Islas Filipinas/Canal). Tel:91 534 75 57/58.www.salagalileogalilei.com1 Nov: Alan Perez2 Nov: Beat Beat Yeah, Ernesto Sevilla3 Nov: Magia Para Toda La Familia, RafaelAmor, Club Castizo 60s4 Nov. Metrpolis ce.5 Nov. Sara Veneros6 Nov: Tamara y Moncho7 Nov: Andrs Suarez and Diego Cantero8 Nov: Al Tran Trn Impro9 Nov: Comit (Carlos Goi)10 Nov: Magia Para Toda La Familia, Rafa Pons11 Nov: Maria Jos Hernndez12 Nov: Javier Carracedo13 Nov: Suburbano14 Nov: Marco Rodrigues15 Nov: Cmicos 16 Nov: Javier Krahe17 Nov: Magia Para Toda La Familia, Homageto Enrique Urquijo18 Nov: Carlos Lzaro19 Nov: Mara Lavalle20 Nov: Pedro Ordoez21 Nov: Dead Combo22 Nov: Faemino y Cansado23 Nov: Los Gandules24 Nov: Magia Para Toda La Familia, PlazaCastilla Music and Dance of Traditional Folklore25 Nov: Homage to Khamis Henkesh

26 Nov: Homage to Miguel Hernndez27 Nov: Alex ODogherty and La Bizarrera28 Nov: Los Garca29 Nov: Antlopez30 Nov: Conchita

GRUTA 77, c/Cuclillo, 6 (Metro: Oporto).Tel: 91 471 23 70. www.gruta77.com1 Nov: orinARTE 2: Juan Abarca + Dislexia +Tremendos2 Nov: Destruyers (Tributo a Ilegales) + Paramal y Para bien (Tributo a Rosendo)3 Nov: Kentucky Bridgeburners (EEUU) + Pieceof Change4 Nov: Warrior Soul + Yakuzas5 Nov: The Casualties (EEUU) + Bladders9 Nov: Fiesta presentacin MUSIC TV.COM:Paa Radio Station + Oferta Especial +Mallecicarum10 Nov: XIII Aniversario Dr. Jekyll: MalosTragos + Atake Urbano + Termofrgidus14 Nov: Man in Motion, Ekram, Agosto Fro,Max Miminico15 Nov: Fiesta Black Thunders Derby Dames:VEcchias + William Folkners 16 Nov: Concierto Jger: Long Tall Texans +Declare La Guerre Nucleaire + Psychobilly17 Nov: Eskorzo + Rinkonete en tu Retrete18 Nov: Aperitivo RnR: The Holy Rollers22 Nov: Eureka + Les Vivo23 Nov: Warrior Poet presentando su Nuevodisco R-Evolution + Not Too Late24 Nov: Fiesta privada25 Nov: Aperitivo RnR: Malasaers28 Nov: Time Machine, La Cabeza de Nico,Txulapos Muertos, Durgamata29 Nov: 1er. Aniversario Canalla Ediciones.Presentan: Esteban Gutirrez + Vicente Dru +Antonio Santo + Pablo Cortina + HugoClemente + Too Benavides + Sesi Garca +Jorge Espina,+ Indio Zammit. Actan: LosEspirituosos (acstico)30 Nov: Star Mafia Boy grabacin de suNuevo disco en directo Arkana Cabaret +Banda Cojones presentando su primer disco +Leather Boys

JOY ESLAVA, c/Arenal, 8 (Metro: Sol).Tel: 91 366 54 39. www.joy-eslava.com10 Nov: Rulo y Contabanda11 Nov: Blind Melon15 Nov: Abbey Road Tour16 Nov: Pony Bravi19 Nov: Micah P. Henson and the Junior ArtsCollective22 Nov: Momo Queens Cover23 Nov: Pink Tones Pink Floyd Show Tour 201224 Nov: Pinktones29 Nov: Coti

PALACIO DE DEPORTES DE LACOMUNIDAD DE MADRID, Avenida FelipeII, s/n (Metro: Goya/O Donnell). Tel. 91444 99 49. www.palaciodedeportes.com9 Nov: Coca-Cola Music Experienca28 Nov: The Black Keys

PALACIO VISTALEGRE, Calle de Utebo, 1(Metro: Vista Alegre). Tel: 91 563 94 93.www.palaciovistalegre.es17 Nov: FNAC Music Fest

CAF LA PALMA, c/Palma, 62 (Metro:Noviciado). Tel: 91 522 50 31.www.cafelapalma.com1 Nov: Pravda + Zombie Valentine3 Nov: My Left Hand8 Nov: Newton9 Nov: Spin Off10 Nov: EA!14 Nov: Antonio Santo15 Nov: Fiesta Solidaria Proyecto Leaozinho:Fuel Fandango + Coins for the Jukebox

16 Nov: El Patio de tu Casa17 Nov: Los Singsong21 Nov: Analisse22 Nov: Lea + Los Toch23 Nov: Inra + Oliva de Happyland24 Nov: La Reunin Indrani & Garga Live29 Nov: Reeves30 Nov: Fiesta Solidaria de la Asociacin deApoyo a las Victimas del Sindrome RubisteinTaybi: Dj Caution + Dj A2829

TEATRO LARA, c/Corredera Baja de SanPablo, 15 (Metro: Callao). Tel: 91 52390 27. www.teatrolara.com4 Nov: Flamenquita11 Nov: Mis Primeras 4 Estaciones

SALA LEMON, Avda del Brasil, 5 (Metro:Santiago Bernabu). Tel: 646 006 433. 3 Nov: Amadreus + Masterly10 Nov: Carmel + Ledz Genesis16 Nov: Mimo + Nuevo Paraiso17 Nov: Deep Purple Music Experience23 Nov: Aslnticos24 Nov: Niples + Versilia30 Nov: Memoria de Pez

LA RIVIERA, P Bajo de La Virgen, s/n(Metro: Puerta del ngel/Prncipe Pio).Tel: 91 365 24 15. www.salariviera.com3 Nov: Antonia Orozco7 Nov: Mavis Staples + Lee Fields8 Nov: Skunk Anansie9 Nov: W.A.S.P.10 Nov: Manuel Carrasco13 Nov: The xx14 Nov: The xx15 Nov: Patti Smith & Her Band16 Nov: Sonata Artica17 Nov: Xoel Lopez18 Nov: Trivium23 Nov: Mika24 Nov: Ivan Ferreiro29 Nov: Love of Lesbian

SALA EL SOL, c/Jardines, 3 (Metro: GranVa). Tel: 91 532 64 90.www.elsolmad.com2 Nov: Jim Wilson vs. Dan Baird & TheHomemade Sin3 Nov: Devil Dogs7 Nov: Los Straightjackets with Big Sandy +Las Pontani Systers8 Nov: Albertucho9 Nov: The Swingin Neckbreakers10 Nov: Girando por Salas13 Nov: Van Dyke Parks14 Nov: Litus15 Nov: The New Raemon + Planet Bass withGypsy Box17 Nov: Los Fulanos + Pyramid Blue20 Nov: Massive Extinction + 77 Noches22 Nov: Willy Naves23 Nov: Maryland24 Nov: BeatnRock Party: Los Imposibles +The Electric Ones27 Nov: Evil Evil Girrrls & The Malvados28 Nov: Sallie Ford & The Sounds Outside29 Nov: L.A.30 Nov: Napoleon Solo + Tortel

Celtic/folk

OONNEEIILLLLSS IIRRIISSHH PPUUBB,, C/Prncipe, 12. Irish tradsession and traditional Irish food every Thurs at19:30hrs. Musicians welcome.. Tel: 91 521 20 30

TTHHEE IIRRIISSHH RROOVVEERR.. See www.theirishrover.com forweekly concert details. Tel: 91 597 48 11TTAABBEERRNNAA EELLIISSAA.. Celtic session Thurs at 22:30hrs.Tel: 91 369 74 263

Julianna Barwick@La CasaEncendidaRonda Valencia, 2 (Metro: Embajadores). Sun,18 Nov, time TBC.www.lacasaencendida.es.Ticket prices TBC.

Julianna Barwick issomething of anenigma. Her music isbuilt around multipleloops, and layers ofher voice and shebegins many of hertracks with a singlephrase or refrain,before using a loopstation and theoccasional piano orpercussive instrumentto build the song intoa swirling mass oflush, ambient folk.Barwick, who creditsa rural, church choirupbringing for her unique sound, released her first twocollections of songs, the full-length Sanguine in 2009 andthe EP Florine in 2010, before issuing her debut onAsthmatic Kitty Records (no, we didnt make that up), TheMagic Place in 2011. Her song Anjos can be heard asthe background score for the recent Levis Go Forthadvertising campaign. Unravel the mystery this month asBarwick reveals a tapestry of ethereal wave, ambient andnew age harmonies.

Klubbers Meeting presents Boys NoizeLive@Madrid ArenaRecinto Ferial de la Casa de Campo, Calle de las Aves (Metro:Lago). Thurs, 8 Nov, from 12am. www.klubbers.com. Ticketsfrom 15.

Boys Noizeis the stagename ofBerlin-basedDJ andproducerAlex Ridha.Producingand DJingfrom an earlyage, Ridahsoon foundhimselfsupporting thelikes of Felix Da Housecat and DJ Hell. Nowadays, BoysNoize himself is known as one of the most valuedelectronic artists in the world, having won theIndependent Music Award in 2010 as well as holding theBest Electronic Artist spot on Beatport for threeconsecutive years. Known for his refreshing approach,Boys Noize is never afraid to break new ground, beaminga myriad of influences from his hip-hop and disco roots tocreate an innovative sound. His DJ sets are equallyuplifting and he is regarded by many as one of theworlds best, not only technically but also as a showman.Seamlessly mixing and remixing on the spot, Ridha neverfails to deliver high-powered and gripping nights, creatingunforgettable experiences for the masses.

BY RICHARD LEWINGTON

live listingsBY JANE PLEGGE

LA TABERNACHICA

VINOS, TAPAS, COCKTAILS

& LOUNGE MUSIC

FABULOUS CAIPIRINHAS

c/Costanilla de San Pedro, 7 (Metro: La Latina)

NightlifeSpotlight


Month Ahead

El Arte de CartierMuseo Thyssen-Bornemisza, Po del Prado, 8 (Metro: Banco de Espaa). Tel: 91 369 01 51. Tues-Sun, 10am-7pm. Generaladmission 9, reduced 6. Cartier exhibition 8, reduced 5.50. Joint General + Cartier 12, reduced 7.50.

Diamonds are for everyone this month at the Museo Thyssen-Bornemisza, thanks to thehistoric Cartier Collection. The legendary French jewellers have loaned the museum morethan 400 of their pieces, from the origin of the company in 1847 to date, to allow aglimpse of the range and evolution of Cartiers most beautiful and iconic styles. The firsthalf of the 20th century takes precedence, beginning with grand tiaras and garlanddesigns, moving to the much-loved Art Deco works from the 20s, more modern piecesinspired by the exoticism of China, India and Egypt, and culminating with the gold stan-dards of the 30s and 40s. Perhaps the most intriguing exhibits are the one-off commis-sions, some presented for the first time, from celebrities such as Grace Kelly, ElizabethTaylor, the Duchess of Windsor, and Coco Chanel. The Cartier craftsmanship and designare sure to shine, sparkle and delight. 24 Oct-17 Feb 2013.

The Good DoctorThe classic black humour and tragichuman character of Anton Chekhovsshort stories come to life in NeilSimons The Good Doctor. Thisadaptation joins five of the 19th-cen-tury Russian authors short stories:The Sneeze, The Governess, TheDrowned Man, The Audition, and TheDefenceless Creature. The cast con-sists of four Madrid PlayersJamesDuggan, Richard Carlow, SusannahJones and Lois Humphreywhohave collaborated with Teatro TespisProducciones to present these talesin English. The stories are connectedby the image of Chekhov as theWriter, who narrates alongside themore modern and sharp wit ofSimons dialogue. Adapted anddirected by JamesDuggan and producedby Aki Ginory, each ofthe poignant storiesends with a dark twistof Chekhovian humour.Teatro Liberarte,

C/Francisca Conde, 7

(Metro: Valdeacederas/La

Ventilla). Tel 679 234 707.

Tickets 12 at the box

office, 10 at

atrapalo.com. Sun, 11, 18

& 25 Nov, 8.30pm.

Spirit of the DanceThe world-famous Irish dance showSpirit of the Dance has made itsway to Madrid this month, and fea-tures ensemble pieces with brightcostumes and varied dancestylesnot only in the style ofRiverdance, but choreographythat touches on salsa, tango, tap,

urban funk and flamenco rhythms,plus movements with traditionalIrish step routines. Since Spirit ofthe Dance was founded in 1996, ithas won nine Global Awards,including Best Choreography andBest International Productionand has been seen in 15 countriesby more than 30 million peoplearound the world. Spirit of the Dance.Teatro Nuevo Apolo. Plaza de Tirso de

Molina, 1 (Metro: Tirso de Molina). Tel:

91 369 06 37. Tickets from 19

(www.entradas.com). 21 Nov- 9 Dec. See

also www.spiritofthedance.com.

The Beasty Bunch: BosLucky DayIn search of a weekend activity foryoung kids? The Face2Face

Theatre Co will be presenting BosLucky Day every Sunday until the25 November. Written and present-ed by Lisa Krosnicki, Beth Cohen,Becky Musto, Michelle Botwood,Andy Glaysher and Tonya Walton,this 60-minute English productionpresents the story of Bo, whosefamily barbecue is interrupted by acoming storm. When Bos dog,Lucky, goes missing after hidingfrom the bad weather, Bo mustembark on a magical adventure insearch of his beloved pet with thehelp of the Beasty Bunch.Recommended for children aged 3to 6. The Beasty Bunch: Bos LuckyDay, Teatro Confidis, C/Alcal, 20 (Metro:

Sevilla). Tel: 91 532 06 16. Tickets 16

(www.gruposmedia.com). Sun, 4, 11, 18

& 25 Nov, 12.30 pm.

PiCKo the month

art KELLY RUMMEL AND LAURA TABOR

Museo del PradoPo del Prado, s/n (Metro: Banco de Espaa/Atocha). Tel: 91 330 28 00. Mon-Sat,

10am-8pm; Sun 10am-7pm. General admission 12. Reduced 6. Permanent col-

lection free, Mon-Sat, 6-8pm; Sun 5-7pm.

EEll jjoovveenn VVaann DDyycckkSpains first exhibi-tion of the work ofFlemish artist SirAnthony van Dyck,and one of thelargest devoted tohim in the world,comes to the Prado.Focusing on the firsteight years of hiscareer (1613-21),which began when hewas only fourteenyears old, the qualityand quantity of theworks greatlyimpress. This early period produced approximately 160paintings, many of which were both huge in size and full ofcreativity. Ninety paintings and drawings are on show here,including his original masterpieces, which expose his mostexperimental phase as he sought for new ways to increasethe visual impact of his works. 20 Nov-3 Mar 2013.

Centro de Arte Reina SofaC/Santa Isabel, 52 (Metro: Atocha/Lavapis). Tel: 91 774 10 00. General admis-

sion inc. temporary exhibitions, 6. Temporary exhibition only, 3. Mon-Sat, 10am-

9pm; Sun, 10am-2.30pm; Tues, closed.

MMaarraa BBllaanncchhaarrdd A celebration of the work of MaraBlanchard, a talented avant-garde Spanish artist of the early20th century, whose physical ailments kept her confined toa wheelchair for the entirety of her life, although the disabili-ty neither stopped her from travelling nor from painting.Studying and exhibiting from Spain to France, Blanchardreached her creative peak in her thirties and lived to see

the demand for her work jump after a Paris exhibition in1921. Since the 1960s there has been a revived interest inappreciating the true and unique elements of her style. 17Oct-25 Feb, 2013.

Other galleriesIImmooggeenn CCuunnnniinngghhaamm Highlighting the work of American pho-tographer Imogen Cunningham, this collection unites variousphotographs, many not previously available to the public,that focus on her important themes such as portraits, urbanarchitecture, the human body (especially in dance), andlandscapes. Known for her versatility and ability to find thebeauty in common things, Cunninghams career spannedfrom her youth to her death, in 1976, at 93 years of age.Fundacin Mapfre, Sala AZCA, Avda General Pern, 40 (Metro:

Santiago Bernabu). Tel: 91 581 16 28. Mon, 2-9pm; Tues-Sat, 10am-

9pm; Sun, 12-8pm. 18 Sept-20 Jan 2013. Free.

MMiittooggrraaffaass.. MMiittooss eenn llaa IInnttiimmiiddaadd Diving into photographyfrom a thematic rather than photographer-specific angle, thisexhibition exposes intimacy between people who are friends,family or total strangers. The photographs speak volumesabout the relationships they are documenting, includingfamous ones like Churchill and Gandhi, Einstein and Curie,Picasso and Dali, and Chaplin and Callas. The theme ofmyths relates to beingable to see into the pri-vate life of thefamousand also howthese popular charac-ters have been por-trayed in history.Fundacin Canal, Calle de

Mateo Inurria, 2 (Metro:

Plaza de Castilla). Tel: 91

545 15 06. Thurs-Tues,

11am-8pm; Wed, 11am-3pm.

From 25 Oct. Free.


very November, groups of peoplestart forming in coffee shops andquiet bars around the world. Theymay look like any normal coffee-shop aficionados, with their steam-ing mugs and laptops open, but they

also have something extramanuscripts, note-books of plots and characters, and extended timesof furious typing. They are together because individ-ually they are attempting a project of surprising pro-portions: the task of writing a 50,000-word novel(about 200 double-spaced pages in a word proces-sor) in 30 days.

National Novel Writing Month, or NaNoWriMo,started with 21 people in the San Francisco Bayarea in 1999; the organisers launched a website thefollowing year and people responded enthusiasticallyto the idea of getting an entire novel on paper soquickly. By 2011, a quarter of a million people hadregistered as participants on the website, with untoldthousands more attempting it on their own. Some ofthose writers can be found in Madrid, and are veter-ans of the literary madness.

Teaming upOne is Jennifer Harding, a Philadelphia native wholives and writes in the Spanish capital. AboutNaNoWriMo, she says, It is a global acknowledge-ment of how necessary writing is, but it teaches youdiscipline within the structure of real life. The con-cept is simple: Choose a project idea and plan asmuch or as little as you wish, without starting theactual writing before 1 November. Having done that,you then spend November writing the 50,000 wordsrequired. The website allows you to log words writ-ten and compare them with the goal. At the end of

the month, the closest thing to a prize is the satis-faction of uploading your novel into a word-countingprogramme, which confirms the length and givesyour online account a winner! badge.

The organisation that runs NaNoWriMoTheOffice of Letters and Lightis non-profit making. Itsbased in the United States, and maintains the web-site (www.nanowrimo.org) as well as funding thechildrens version, called the Young WritersProgramme.

For members all over the world, the heart of theidea is meeting other writers. NaNoWriMo is a com-munity; you need it because it drives you throughthe stickiest parts. It is a place to feel seriously con-sidered as a writer, because all writers need to beencouraged, continues Harding.

Desire and disciplineThe website has a forum where participants, orWriMos, can discuss meeting up for write-ins or forcelebrations at the end of the month that are oftencalled Thank God Its Over parties. Spain has itsown forum, and some Madrid WriMos have a regularmeet-up on Sunday evenings in one of the citysStarbucks. However, the most popular aspect, aftercommunicating in person or on the forums, is forpeople to have spur-of-the-moment get-togethers towrite and share their work and ideas. Conversing,complaining and commiserating are often the orderof the day, and become part of the experience.

Harding also points out that the projects shorttime span and high yield creates two other uniqueelements: You have to learn that craft and disci-pline, not talent, are important; those are the thingsthat are within your means. You just have to writeevery day. It also teaches you to leave the words

alone, not edit, and just get things on the page soyou have something to work with.

The final product is not often a book contract.There are, however, those who achieve this, andSantiago Eximeno is one. He wrote his bookCondenados during NaNoWriMoit was published,and in the acknowledgments he says, To NationalNovel Writing Month, for returning me to the passionfor writing novels. To all my buddies in November,thanks for accompanying me in this craziness; with-out your support I wouldnt have succeeded.

Character formingEximenos success, and the promotion ofNaNoWriMo in his book and blog have brought otherSpaniards to the project. One example is Roskat(her NaNoWriMo website nickname), who found outabout the project three years ago on Eximenos blogand has used each year to focus on producing anew first draft of a novel.

Roskat finds getting to know her characters soquickly a challenge. When I have to decide whatkind of character to write, I always start askingmyself: What character do I like the most? shesays. Ill try to make strong characters, with somebackground, but as much as Id want if I was thereader, not the writer. Half the struggle, forNaNoWriMo writers, is keeping their own interest forsuch an intensive project.

I wanted to try it, when I read about it onEximenos blog, continues Roskat, It forces you towrite seriously. Since starting, she has written fanta-sy/sci-fi pieces, of which she has sometimes beenproud, but occasionally has decided to shelve whenthe month finished.

In the end, the question remains: why attempt

NaNoWriMo? The project yields no physical benefits,and theres no punishment for going over the month-long limit. Eximeno states his opinion as, Why? Forthe sensation of being part of something bigger, forthe camaraderie with other authors The two timesIve participated, Ive achieved first drafts of novels,which makes NaNoWriMo more than worth it.

To register, and for further details, seewww.nanowrimo.org. Theres also a face-book group, NaNoWriMo Spain.

theatre

e30 Days + 50,000 words = National novel-writing monthDo you need inspiration to produce that best-selling book you know youre capable of? Laura Tabor meetsMadrid writers who are putting pen to paper to complete a novel within thirty days

Jennifer Harding Photo: Laura Tabor

LAURA TABOR AND JANE PLEGGE

awson are literally the new kids on theblock. The four-piece band consists of leadsinger and acoustic guitarist Andy Brown(from Liverpool), bass player Ryan Fletcher(Chesterfield), guitarist Joel Peat (Mansfield)and drummer Adam Pitts (Brighton). Havingbeen signed to Polydor Records in 2011, they

have taken the world by storm with three hit singlesWhen She Was Mine, Taking Over Me and Standingin the Dark. Their debut album, Chapman Square, hasbeen flying off the shelves.

Madrid attractionsOur interview takes place at a hotel situated by thenewly developed Madrid Ro and as we sit down for ourchat, the boys all arrive with cheeky but shocked expres-sions on their faces. The women here are just gorgeous,quips Joel. Its an easy-going start to the interview, andimmediately prompts the first question. The best youveseen so far on your travels? Definitely, replies Andy.Well, its between LA and Madrid, definitely! Its theirfirst visit to the Spanish capital, and the comment isbased on their drive to the hotel. Were alreadyimpressed, emphasises Joel. The others nod in agree-ment with schoolboy grins on their faces.

Referring to the bands keynote song, When She WasMine, and curious to see the subject develop, is thererivalry in the band about the opposite sex? They alllaugh. Oh yeah! Loads of jokes. Constantly, all the time!We give each other a lot of stick. Youve got to give each

other a lot of stick! comments Joel. But, Andy adds,one thing weve learnt from being in a band with eachother for so long is that you just have to take it on thechin. Joel nods. When people are being honest, youcant ever get upset and you cant take it to heart, hesays, and if anything, theyre being so honest becausetheyre your friend.

For them, banter is just fun, and if you take it seri-ously or get upset about it, it will get worse. Take itbadly, and it escalates, says Andy, noting other bandsthat have fallen out and split up over petty matters.

A high barWith 2012 being such a big year for Lawsonit has seenthem travel around the UK as well as to America, France,Denmark, Holland, Belgium and Spainperhaps theyhave reached their goal of world fame and achievements?Theres always more to do, says Andy. Theres always,always more to achieve. I think weve had an amazingyear. We actually had a little bit of a chat about it the otherday. A little bit of a heart-to-heart about what weve donethis year. We listed everythingplaying the V Festival,Wembley, Croke Park stadium in Dublin.

Joel interrupts. I think its been like things to tick offat some point in my life, and theyve happened in a spaceof a year. But were big dreamers. Weve got big aspira-tions and we just want to keep building and building.

We want to be as big in Europe as we are in theUK, stresses Andy, and basically to sell a lot ofalbums. I think thats more importantselling albumsand also selling our live shows. Those two things are soimportant because they mean a lot to us.

Name diagnosisThe band were originally known as The Grove, butdecided to change their name after Andy was diagnosedwith a brain tumour. His surgeon, Dr Lawson, completedan operation to remove it, and in honour of his work andAndys recovery, the band renamed themselves Lawson.

The eighteen-track debut album, Chapman Square, isa combination of four years work writing, gigging and

touring, says Joel. We only signed [withPolydor Records] last year, so before that wewere doing gigs around the country. We weregetting in a van that was clapped out and justgoing anywhere that would give us a chance.

Ryan is particularly enthusiastic aboutthe hit track When She Was Mine. Its agreat representation of the album. There

are a lot of guitars in there and sing-a-long choruses.The song is quite uplifting but the theme of the albumis primarily heartbreak and a lot of it is about Andy andthe relationship that he had.

When asked if its a case of revenge or a healing process,Andy thinks before replying. I think its a kind of healing,isnt it? he says. You use that inspiration of whats hap-pening in your life when you sit down at a piano or play anacoustic guitar and try to write a song. Having had a lot ofoffers from others to pitch songs in their direction, the bandare steadfast in maintaining their own writing process.

IndividualityChapman Square is a very personal album, but in ahighly competitive industry, Lawson believe their guitarstrengths will create a distinction. There are a lot ofgood bands out there, Andy says accepting the realityof the situation, but I dont think there are as manybands that do what were doing. The charts are so heav-ily dance influenced at the moment and there are noguitar players. The only ones in the charts are Maroon5, The Script, Coldplay, Fun and then us! Thats prettymuch it. And guitar playing is our music, so we justwant to bring a new kind of taste to that. So far, peoplehave liked it; we just want to get more people involved.

Learning from The ScriptAfter mentioning The Script, who Lawson recently support-ed on tour and who could easily be described as rivals, isthere any cut-throat competition? Theyre such nice guys!says Andy, immediately removing any ferocity or back-stab-bing. I mean, we had a pint with Danny [ODonoghue, TheScripts frontman]. Well, a few beers really. Theyve beenthere and done it, and worn the T-shirt a thousand timesmore, and were new to this game. The sort of advice youreceive when you get to spend time and lock horns withsomeone like that is invaluable. He had a lot of wise words,but basically, whenever you speak to anyone like that theyjust say You know what? Just enjoy yourself!

We spoke about music and their new album. Dannywas telling us about the song with will.i.am and obvi-ously that hit number one. Its amazing what they did. Ithink the most inspirational thing about The Script waswhen we were on our way to a gig in a van and wewatched their tour documentary leading to their big sta-dium show in Dublin. Danny said something like Wewanna be the biggest band in the world. Youve justgotta keep going. You dont wanna be tired or whatever.Its obviously paid off for those guys. It inspired us somuch that we got out of the van and did our gig think-ing Right! This is it! Were gonna take over the world!

Chapman Square is now available on Polydor Records.

music

L

We were getting in avan that was clappedout and just goinganywhere that wouldgive us a chance.

Ticking all the right boxesBritish band Lawson have just released their debut album, ChapmanSquare. Richard Lewington catches up with them in Madrid to talk aboutSpanish chicas, concerts, songwriting and rivalry


hen embarking on a life in a new country, its inevitablethat some things will differ from our creature comfortsthe weather, food, traditions. Its also likely that, with theopposite sex appearing far more exotic and attractivethan in your homeland, wonderful romantic relationships

will take place. One minute youre missing your fish and chips or hamburg-ers, the next your eyes meet with those of a local across a crowded room,and suddenly youre eating tapas seven days a week. Can cultural differ-ences survive the test of time, and if so, whats the key?

Can it work?It can certainly work, although there are difficulties to overcome, explainsDolly, who is of Spanish and English decent. You need to work extra hardas you will find gaps created by cultural differences, adds Leo, a Mexicanwith a British girlfriend.

Of course, life for couples from the same country is never perfect,although being with someone from a totally different background can havemore of an impact. In reality, all relationships are based on individuals andtheir attitudes, therefore any relationship can work depending on the amountof effort you are willing to put in, states Sini from Finland. Her Mexican part-ner, Chava, agrees: There is always a way, and if there isnt, you find it.

For Sarah, an American with a German boyfriend, there is no questionthat it can work although it can be harderbecause of potential language barriers.

Is it better?I think its definitely far more unusual thana boring same-old-country relationship,explains Sarah. I dont know if perhapsthe exotic factor and the allure come intoplay with the connection that you have, orif its just kismet that you met abroad.

Chava believes cross-cultural relation-ships are far better even though theytend to be more difficult to keep. Siniagrees, but whether they are enhanced ornot depends on each individual. Sprinklea relationship with cultural differences and

you will get a pretty explosive combination, says Chava. Its like mixingtequila and Jgermeister; youll feel pretty awesome at the beginning but itwill probably give you one of the worst hangovers in your life!

PersonalityDoes it take a specific type of person to make it work?

I think so, mentions Dolly. People need to have an open mind and beflexible. Toby, from England, comments that adapt and survive may neverbe more appropriate. Remaining patient and being bothered to do theextra work needed is another essential trait according to Leo. Sini, havingseen relationships spark unexpectedly between people of different nations,thinks personality makes a difference but love knows no boundaries.

Maybe it depends on what countries you are trying to mesh together,adds Sarah. Finding it hard to imagine some of her friends back home inte-grating with a foreign national, she considers that maybe some people arejust not as cultured as others. On further reflection she realises that everyperson I know in a mixed-culture relationship is a travel junkie, so I guessthey must have a similar mentality.

Handling conflictConflict is much the same irrespective of culture. Spanish plates smashagainst a brick wall just like English ones, comments Toby, conjuring a pop-ular image of disagreement. In every relationship, Dolly thinks that conflict isavoided or solved with communication, generosity and respect.

Chava contributes a further idea. Most of the time you wont even get closeto solving a problem. The onlything you can do is try to reach abalance point through conces-sions and compromises. ForSini, this is where it gets interest-ing. The most important thing isto recognise each others differ-ences and the fact that you comefrom diverse value settings.

You may also need toadjust reactions to take into account culture barriers. Small things that mayseem insignificant could be blown out of proportion by pure misunderstand-ing. A tone of voice or a certain gesture, for example, could be interpreted

incorrectly. In Sarahs opinion, taking the time to calm down and see theother point of view can really help.

Pros and consWhen it comes to the perks, there was one unanimous response: travel.Having the opportunity to explore a new country is always amazing, butexperiencing it with a local can make it truly unforgettable. A new lan-guage, cultural background, education and way of thinking is invaluable toLeo and the others, although there are drawbacks such as missing out onsharing some things in common like music and TV programmes.

Understanding a new perspective on life is a major pro for Sarah.However, there could also be that awkward moment when you have todecide if you want to settle down, and perhaps live somewhere else for therest of your lifesomething especially difficult if you are close to family andfriends back home.

LanguageImagine the scene: youre at a dinner party with your partners friends andthe language bomb dropsyou cant understand a word! One part of youpanics and clams up while the other tries to embrace the challenge.

In Dollys opinion, learning your partners language is a must.Language is necessary for understanding, for sharing, for humour. It is thebasic form of communication. Leo also sees it as the pillar for every cul-ture, and Toby contributes an unusual perspective by saying people fre-quently revert to their native language when angry, so its essential for agood argument! Sini, however, believes it depends on the situation. If youalready have a common language that both feel comfortable with, then itsnot an absolute requirement. Its beneficial, but it has to be a natural andpleasant process, not forced.

It seems theres no Holy Grail. In the end, no matter where you arefrom, the priorities are learning to communicate and resolve issues, andbeing prepared to explain things that might feel self-evident to you. Fi

inmadrid november 2012 issue

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