Words: Jamie McBride
Director: Morgan Neville
Cast: Darlene Love, Judith Hill, Merry Clayton, Lisa Fischer
Certificate: 12A
Running time: 91 minutes
Image: collider.com

Done through interviews, archive footage and present day footage following the lives of the backup singers mainly focused on, ‘Twenty Feet From Stardom’ looks at the careers of a number of black female backup singers, all working in R&B and soul – think The Supremes, Motown etc. – and interestingly looks at the general life of being a backup singer. First off, Neville is obviously a very good filmmaker. He gets great, insightful interviews out of each of his interviewees, especially those whose careers are the main focus of the film, and creates a fantastically warm tone for the film that doesn’t just allow the audience in easily but welcomes them with open arms. The women that Neville follows are obviously joyful personalities and he captures that well – an example is Merry Clayton’s first few seconds on the screen, where she and Neville are already joking with each other, which is really nice to watch.

The cast and director receiving their Oscar for Best Documentary.
Image: nydailynews.com

But a special mention must be given to the look of the film – the camerawork is good, but what really stands out is the effects that are used intermittently, like the montage of the covers of failed solo records made by each of the backup singers interviewed.These visual aids only pop up a few times in the film but they’re so pleasing to watch that they need mentioning. As does the editing for the film, which is obviously expert. A fantastic moment that blends two separate interviews to give real insight into the song ‘Gimme Shelter’ (insight that I’d never even considered) is a real joy to watch, so I won’t ruin it by giving each detail, but it’s a really great point in the film that shows the ability and insight of those behind this film. But this great editing extends to the blending of interviews and archive footage as well, putting present day interviews next to old footage of the early performances of these now experienced backup singers, which is really interesting to compare.

Neville’s focus doesn’t just stick with the singers reminiscing about the great times they had though, in fact it touches upon some of the darker aspects of the industry, like the sexualisation of some of the women. That he touches upon these issues shows that the director isn’t just making a feel-good nostalgia film but really does look at each part of the music industry and in particular its treatment of the people working in it and has created an insightful piece of work. The film even looks at the historical and political context of the singers’ careers, giving a nicely rounded view of the world of backup singing. The one flaw that did strike me however was the fact that the film did tend to occasionally go from one point to the next quite quickly, not giving as much time to one as it would the other. Whilst this does make sense, I felt myself wanting to hear more about certain points that were covered in a few minutes, but this is a minor issue.

Too Much Clothing (or TMC) is a new brand eager to be put on the fashion map, created by one of our own Sheffield Hallam students, Hayden James.

The brand had a modest beginning with one-off tie-dye t-shirt pieces, but has since progressed into embroidery items such as t-shirts, jumpers, hoodies, jogging bottoms and hats, all available from their website.

Hayden talks about starting his own clothing brand – “In the summer of 2012 I was going to a music festival and really wanted a few tie dye t-shirts. I couldn’t find anything I liked so I decided to make my own, but I got a lot of compliments. I started making some for my friends but the word began to spread and I decided to use the logo TMC, meaning Too Much Clothing, it all started from there.”

TMC is entirely student-run and its original style would look just as well placed on a male as a female, TMC is, unusually yet cleverly, 100% unisex.

A hidden gem of Sheffield, the brand truly represents the diverse style of Sheffield’s student-orientated city, and we can see it going a long way.

With the extension of the brand they now deliver worldwide, and it’s rapid growth leaves us shocked to learn it remains humble and all aspects of the business are brought together in a student flat in Sheffield.

If you’re looking for a local brand with a story, or just a stylish beanie hat, you can never have Too Much Clothing…

News of the century for You Me at Six fans: they have announced a new album release for the 27th of January 2014. Bigger and better than ever, the boys are back.

We see the return of Josh, Max, Matt, Dan and Chris after a yearlong break which has left all their fans anticipating their next move.

Following the release of their single ‘Lived a Lie’ on 2nd September, the band’s fan base erupted with excitement.

After releasing the single live on Radio 1, ‘Lived a Lie’ reached No.2 in the iTunes charts and stayed there for an impressive three weeks.

Now, just two months later, the band have announced their new album: Cavalier Youth. You can find the official track list and pre-order the album on the band’s Facebook page:  http://www.facebook.com/youmeatsix

The previous album, ‘Sinners never Sleep,’ was something that saw You Me At Six progress as musicians, so the expectations for Cavalier Youth will be set high.

Best news of all? Whenever a new album is released, a tour soon follows and it will certainly be worth waiting for. Not only will it see the combination of old and new, but hopefully we will see the epic performances that You Me At Six are often recognised for.

Venue: The Leadmill

Words By: Paul Haddock

The dynamic duo Deap Vally, hail from Los Angeles, California, releasing their debut album ‘Sistitronix’ in June after supporting The Vaccines for the latter of last year. Their unique scuzzy-rock sound is starting to echo around the rock community as a warning to other artists as they have the potential to become popular not only in the US, but over here in the UK.

Being touted as the next White Stripes, they have lived up to their reputation handsomely. Throughout their album there are many songs that have us reminiscing early Led Zeppelin, which is special amongst contemporary rock artists. With a wealth of riffs, drum solos and sassy vocals at their disposal, Deap Vally are certainly going to be a dominant force if they continue to be as raw, and affluently ebullient as they are now.

After their gig at The Leadmill, the crowd was left in awe of how well they combined the classic scuzz riffs with the Sabbath-esque drum fills, the crowd were really getting into the performance by chanting their name and demanding an encore. Touring the UK until the 12th of November, they are proving to be the up and coming band of 2013. Expect to see them at festivals in 2014, they will blow your mind.

‘Sistitronix’ is available on iTunes, and you can be assured it is well worth paying for.

Venue: The Leadmill

Words By: Paul Haddock

Releasing their fifth studio album ‘Dear Bo Jackson’ earlier this year, the Mississippi based quintet are touring the UK to show people what they have to offer, an indie blues set that will most certainly leave you stunned.

After signing with Kings Of Leon’s new record label ‘Serpents & Snakes Records’, they have been producing some music that combines classic indie rock riffs with astonishing vocals from the lead singer Cain Barnes. They have very much evolved the way they make music, as their first album ‘Comeback Cadillac’ was rough around the edges with a host of tracks that set the standard for hearty, bluesy rock. This sort of transition from rough garage based rock to smoother, cleaner and more mellow music has happened to many American indie rock bands such as The Black Keys, Dead Weather and Kings Of Leon.

At The Leadmill, The Weeks sported the latest indie fashion trends as they arrived in time to see the other bands before their own performance, and quite admirably joining in with the crowd. Their hour set consisted of some newer tracks, mixed with highlights of their earlier albums such as ‘Buttons’ from ‘Comeback Cadillac’. Their music seemed to please the strong crowd of 150 very sufficiently, me especially.

If you want to listen to a new band that offer something different, buying their new album is highly recommended or listening to all of their previous albums on Spotify. An indie rock band that have a broad spectrum of material for us to listen, appreciate and admire.

It’s that time of year again, when your loan comes through and Total Students Ltd returns to Sheffield’s Meadowhall shopping centre, bringing with them the successful Student Lock-In.

This unique, alternative night offers savings for students as well as having a dramatic effect on the stores and communities.

Along with exclusive student discounts, student-friendly promotion is a key part as many brands and businesses throughout the centre offer giveaways, goodie bags and entertainment.

With activities such as these, the event is guaranteed to have a fun festival-like atmosphere unlike many of you have ever attended before.

Since 2011 the company have had many successful, regular events, and are hoping to continue this in 2013.

A huge number of 6,000 students attended at the spring event last year and then a further 3 times that in the autumn event with 18,000 students queueing crazily for all the discounts and offers that only run for one-night.

With tens of thousands of pounds coming into the economy at each event, the vast amount of revenue impacts on the businesses especially those with chains across the country and the event tour.

With almost 9% of the entire undergraduate population attending these events, don’t miss out on up to 40% off your favourite brands – including: Urban Outfitters, Ted Baker, Levi’s, Topman, Miss Selfridge and many more.

Make sure you hit Meadowhall shopping centre, this Thursday 18th April from 7:00pm until 10:00pm.

To attend register now for free online at studentlockin.com where further information including a list of all shops with discounts can be found.

Album: Tell Where I Lie

Label: Dirty Hit Records

Release Date: 8^th April 2013

Words: Imogen Thomson

Fossil Collective’s new album starting with melodic sounds of  ‘Let It Go’, gives the setting for the rest of the album, a back to basics type sound with a modern twist. As contradictory as this statement is, it’s the way this band sound. With influences from Neil Young and Simon and Garfunkel, this two piece band from Yorkshire create equally inspiring music.

From recoding an EP in a church crypt to supporting Benjamin Francis Leftwhich, this band have come a long way since forming little over a year ago. Some of their achievements include having a YouTube song receiving over 250,000 hits, having press support from such magazines as NME and playing live at Camden Roundhouse!

The bands EP ‘On and On’ in October 2012, was definitely a positive build up to ‘Tell Where I Lie’. David Fendick and Jonny Hooker are both incredibly multi-talented musicians. It is rare to find such raw talent come together to create such raw music.

We look forward to hearing more of what Fossil Collective can do and for those of you who can, catch them on their up and coming UK tour, 10^th of April 2013 – 4^th May 2013.

We’ve tried and tested every girl’s three major must-haves – foundation, eyeliner and lipstick to give you the low down on where to Splurge and where to Save when it comes to make-up.

Words and Photos by Dani Tucker

Many drugstore brands are fast on the tail of high-end, producing surprisingly similar products. And with consumers still feeling the after effects of the recession, the splurge or save predicament comes into play.

Let’s look at ‘drugstore’ products pinned against a favourite high-end brand, MAC.

Famous for being an all-rounder brand and a go-to for professional make-up artists, it’s interesting to see how MAC compares to products with a more digestible price tag.

Foundation

MAC Match Maker SPF 15 Foundation – £25 (shade 1.5)

Brand Description – “New Foundation technology using translucent pigments to enable a fully personalized finish influenced by the subtleties of your own skin’s undertone. Moisturizing demi-matte finish. Medium buildable coverage. Line-reducing soft-focus powders.”

After having this product for a little while now I have found it leaves a silky texture to the skin.  It is not a product for someone looking for a heavy coverage as although it is buildable, for the price of it, it would kill me to have to use double the amount to get the desired coverage.

Most MAC face products are separated into two shade categories; NW for pink undertone skin and NC for yellow undertone skin.

However Match Maker only offers 14 single shades which are supposed to adapt to a range of skin tones. But personally I would have preferred a more exact shade.

Bourjois Healthy Mix Serum – £10.99 in Shade 52

Brand Description – “16 hour radiance booster** Instant anti-fatigue result! Give your skin a boost of radiance with Bourjois’ Healthy Mix Serum Gel foundation with a vitamin-rich fruit therapy formula for an even complexion and an instant anti-fatigue result”

Again the coverage is not overly heavy, but then it doesn’t claim to be. I find this an ideal foundation for day wear as it gives a soft natural coverage, feels fresh on the skin and smells delicious.

As a ‘radiance booster’ it wouldn’t give that ‘perfect’ skin look, but it gives a dewy, au natural finish.

Unfortunately, the packaging hasn’t stayed intact in the short space of time I have had it and the shades on offer are incredibly limited.

Which would you choose?

Verdict – Both leave a silky finish to the skin but Match Maker leaves the skin looking more matte.

It would come down to personal preference on what finish you want, but for the price I’d definitely be more likely to buy a repeat of Bourjois, it smells too nice not too.

MAC’s studio sculpt or fix fluid are much more worth the price.

Felt tip Eyeliner

MAC Penultimate Eyeliner – £16 in Rapid Black

Brand Description – “Goes on fluidly, in one steady stroke, to style any fashion of eye line.”

This has simple packaging and an easy to use tip. It is ideal for getting that cat-eye flick and produces a jet black finish.

The only downside I found is that it doesn’t last incredibly well. It starts to fade after a few hours of wear and if you plan on using every day, be prepared to re-purchase sooner than you’d like.

Bourjois Liner Feature – £6.99 in 11 Noir

Brand Description – “Ultra easy application and long lasting effect”

 I would say this has the same amount of wear time as the MAC product although it smudges easier.

The Bourjois packaging is sleeker and the tip is noticeably thicker with a good colour pay off.  And the size of the tip makes it easy to use for those not great using free hand.

Which eyeliner would work best for you?

Verdict – Their staying power is similar, but MAC gives a more precise finish.

However, considering the price, they really aren’t worlds apart and do exactly the same job with just 6mm of product each.

Lipstick

MAC Lipstick – £14 In shade MAC Red

Brand Description –“Colour plus texture for the lips. Stands out on the runway. Simmers on the street! What made M·A·C famous”

One of MACs most loved products; their lipsticks come in a range of finishes, textures and a vast choice of shades.

Lustre for example gives a light pigmentation whereas Amplified gives a highly pigmented, bold colour. And not forgetting MAC lipsticks’ trademark sleek bullet-like packaging and lovely vanilla scent.

MAC Red gives a glossy vivid red colour that stays put. However at £14 this is fairly pricey for a lipstick.

Barry M Lip Paint – £4.49 in Shade 121

Brand Description –“Barry M Lip Paints are available in a shade to suit every mood and taste from softly shimmering pastels to vibrant and bright colours.”

This product does the job for the price tag, but don’t buy expecting wonders. It has quite a plastic scent, but does give a good colour pay off.

It won’t last all day, but for £4.49 who would expect it to anyway?

For a cheaper brand the shade selection is also quite varied.

Which red lippy is for you?

Verdict – MAC all the way. Their lipsticks really are worth that little extra. If you’re not bothered about staying power and scent, Barry M offers a nice little selection of bold and pretty colours, but MAC comes out on top here.

Save and Splurge…

There’s definitely a reason why MAC is loved by make-up artists and beauty guru’s alike. Each aspect of the products have clearly been thought about, such as the packaging and scent, not just the finish.  

Yet there are certainly some products to splurge on and some to save on…

Foundation for example, is definitely worth the price tag as cheaper products are more likely to cause break outs on sensitive skin as the products aren’t always as well tested. Also, the more expensive brands have a much wider range of shades to adapt to your skin.

On the flip side, regarding products with a shorter life-span such as mascara and eyeliner, you are better off choosing the cheaper option. Many of them are just as good, and the variety gives you a chance to trial different kinds to suits you best.

I find a good mix of drugstore and high end create the best make-up collection and gives you a wider variety of products to create different looks with.

On a student budget there are an abundance of products on offer that won’t break the bank, so don’t be fooled into thinking you have to go and spend your entire loan on expensive cosmetics. Work with what you’ve got and you can create a look just as professional.

Do you pay the price for high end make-up or think more affordable products are equally as good quality?

Tweet us @SHULifeFashion to tell us your beauty secrets

Words by Farida Tejan

‘The wait’ was well and truly over this week as the hotly anticipated Rihanna for River Island spring/summer collection was unveiled to the world.

The twenty five year-old pop starlet teamed up with high street giant River Island to deliver what she described as ‘clothes for young women with young, sassy personalities.’

Previews of Rihanna’s collection received overriding thumbs up from critics at this year’s London Fashion Week. But we at SHULife Fashion believe that the proof of the pudding is in the eating and it’s fair to say that Rihanna has whipped up quite a tasty collection for us fashion fans.

The singer’s designs are surprisingly sedate, contrary to her provocative personal-wear. The line showcases a variety of basic t’s, cami’s and vest tops in monochrome colours; a big trend this season.

However, before you dash out and part with what’s left of your loan it’s worth noting that most of these looks can easily be Rih-created DIY-style by cropping a basic top and tying a knot in the front.

The looks that really got us excited here at SHULife Fashion were the not-so-easily created: denim dungaree crop tops, a sexy-chic roll neck maxi dress complete with thigh high split and slash back and killer heel shoe boots with cut-out detailing.

The whole range undeniably contains Rihanna’s distinct ‘rude girl’ style, embodying ‘90’s grunge with hip hop influences. And the prices aren’t too outrageous either, ranging from a very affordable £18 to the not so affordable £140.

The trick to staying on trend without breaking the bank is to stick to buying key, statement pieces you know you can’t Rih-create for cheaper elsewhere.