Cosmopolitan.com

The Earth Comes To SA

Mon, 06 Feb 2012 12:00 +0200

When you hear someone talking about the 'Tallest Man On Earth', your thoughts probably turn to that Turkish guy who reaches a whopping 2.51 metres - and not to a Swedish singer/songwriter. Well, you had better learn about Kristian Matsson, aka Tallest Man On Earth, quickly – because he's on his way to South Africa to perform live in Cape Town and Jo'burg.

This 28-year-old singer/songwriter has been compared to the likes of Bob Dylan, and has managed to receive consistently glowing reviews from top music magazines and sites, as well as supporting mega band, Bon Iver, on tour.

If you haven't bought your tickets yet, you can try and get your hands on the last few available in Cape Town at the CTICC on Friday 10 February. Unfortunately, the Jo'burg show is already sold out. For more information and to buy tickets, click here.

For those of you who have already bought your tickets, here's what you can expect.

Check out a message from Tallest Man On Earth to his fans on his South African tour:

Here's the official video for his single, 'Love Is All' from the 2010 album, Wild Hunt.

Back To The Future

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 12:00 +0200

Find out what makes Peach, the mastermind behind Yesterday's Pupil, tick.

1. You've described your music as futuristic and deeply complex electro. How do you achieve this sound?
Hopefully, it's not always too complex. When life is complicated it tends to spill over into the music, but lately I have a way more simplistic approach to writing. I don't think it's really electro anymore either, but it is definitely futuristic. Actually, there's no need to label it as anything.

2. You made a name for yourself when you were in the band SHU. How quickly did you feel your life changed after achieving this success?
I didn't really feel any different. Looking back now, SHU was just the beginning. It takes close to a decade in this industry before you really know what the hell is going on.

3. Your music is inspired by '70s and '80s rock and synth-pop. What else influences your music on a daily basis?
Life in general - I draw a lot of inspiration from all the various emotions we feel as human beings. I find the biggest problem with modern music is that there is a total lack of emotion. Music, to me, is after all the sound of very specific but indescribable emotions. Lately, it seems like mainstream music is about sex and cash. The technology aspect seems to overpower the raw human emotion behind the music, and that is a bit sad.

4. What process do you follow when writing a song? Does it come easily to you?
Some come easily and happen quickly, but sometimes it takes years. Each song is like its own little being, which I have to learn to get along with before it's 'finished' or ready to be released. I am about to release two songs that have been over three years in the making, and that is intense - there is a lot of myself in that music. But I edited most of it out because I don't want to freak people out with emotion.

5. After releasing your first album in 2008, Errors of Enthusiasm, you've now made the first part of your new album, Singularity, available for download for free. Why make it free?
I want people to hear it. It sure beats trying to convince them to go to the store and buy it. Besides, people live in front of their computers - that's just the way it is. That's cool, but it's also really and truly kak.

6. What time of day do you work best on your music, and why?
Early in the morning and late at night. In the mornings my ears are fresh, and late at night my mind is full, so I use the music to get some of that shit out, but I edit it again in the morning.

7. Are there certain kinds of people you won't surround yourself with?
Shitty people who don't even try to be better.

8. What's better: A band with many members or a one-man show?
I love both - I play in a bunch of bands but I also go solo. I guess variety is the best.

9. Has a girl ever inspired your music? If so, how?
Yes. I have no idea how they do it.

Watch the official music video for 'Too Tired To Disco', the first single off the new album, Singularity. You can also download Part 2 of the new album, entitled Duel here.

Scarlett Express

Mon, 16 Jan 2012 12:00 +0200

It's difficult to look beyond Scarlett Johansson's freakishly good looks (Esquire named her the Sexiest Woman Alive in 2006, and Woody Allen compares her to Marilyn Monroe), but in her new role as the butt-kicking Black Widow in The Avengers, this 27-year-old Hollywood A-lister is very happy not to be playing the object of male infatuation. 'There's no romance,' she says happily; 'I spend the whole film kicking the sh*t out of people.'

Since her divorce from actor Ryan Reynolds, the diminutive, curvy actress has elected to remain single, despite constant rumours to the contrary. She admits that she wasn't ready to do the hard work marriage requires. And being on her own (except for Maggie, her Chihuahua) has been an important learning experience.

On page 70 of the February edition of COSMOPOLITAN you can read more about Scarlett's transition from 'the pretty girl' to leading roles in Iron Man 2, Under The Skin and We Bought a Zoo and how she is finally getting to flex her acting muscles. We say, go girl!

Nicole's X Factor

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 12:00 +0200

Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger talks about confidence, goofiness and her 'war' with Cheryl Cole.

As a shy, quiet child growing up in the tiny American town of Louisville, Kentucky, Nicole's Hawaiian-Filipino heritage made her stick out like a sore thumb, and her sensitive nature won her the nickname 'cry baby' - a very far cry from the confident diva in a sexy corset asking men if they wished their girlfriends were as sexy as her. But, as is often the case, Nicole's stage persona is very different from the goofy, reserved and self-depracating woman COSMO met in the flesh.

On stage, her larger-than-life persona is the one she channelled as an awkward teen who used to hide in her room, singing along to Whitney Houston tracks, and pretending to be someone else. And despite the whole X Factor USA controversy and supposed war with Cheryl Cole, she has only good things to say about Simon Cowell, and makes a point of ignoring the dirt the tabloids make it their mission to dish.

While the future of the Pussycat Dolls is unclear, Nicole's upwards trajectory is certain. Read more about our gorgeous cover girl on page 78 in the January edition of COSMOPOLITAN.

Perry Perry Good

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:00 +0200

Katy Perry is on a roll. Besides the fact that she continues to pop out chart-topping hits in the blink of an eye, her fragrance (which you can win here) is on top of everyone's Christmas wish lists too.

She's a winner alright. With over 60 awards and 218 nominations under her belt, Katy still manages to keep her cool and protect her private life (as much as she can) from the outside world. On page 112 of the December issue of COSMOPOLITAN, read about how this eccentric superstar deals with fame, the inspiration behind her unique style and how she feels about being a role model for women.

Watch the official music video for 'California Gurls' below, which won Katy Video Of The Year at this year's MTV Video Music Awards.

Twilight: Breaking Dawn

Wed, 16 Nov 2011 12:00 +0200

Whether you couldn't care less or are a die-hard Twi-hard already queuing up for your seat at the movies tonight, we couldn't resist this little reminder.

Twilight: Breaking Dawn (Part One) opens tonight in SA theatres. From the look of these trailers (we couldn't choose which one we liked more), it's going to be a nail-biting, passion-fuelled experience that's not to be missed.

Watch the trailers below and see what you're in for.

KONGOS Fever

Tue, 08 Nov 2011 12:00 +0200

Recently, KONGOS has received significant radio airplay, so you've probably heard one or two of their tracks on quite a few occasions. Why? Because these South African-born brothers are doing something a little different... and it's paying off.

As the sons of South African music legend, John Kongos, the four brothers have certainly led an interesting life. They grew up in South Africa and London and currently live and work in Phoenix, Arizona. Now they're on their way back home to tour the country. All we can say is, make sure you're there.

What was it like having a world-famous South African musician for a father? Beneficial or a bit crazy?
Definitely beneficial - having someone who has done what you are trying to do supporting you is invaluable - his experience has helped us in every aspect of our career. If you're going to follow in someone's footsteps it's nice for them to be cool footsteps - don't get us wrong though... he still finds ways to embarrass us ;)

Your single, 'I'm Only Joking' is topping the charts all around South Africa. What or who inspired the lyrics for the song?
We've decided that with this particular song, we like to leave that question up to the listeners - it's been really interesting and sometimes funny hearing people's theories. Musically, it's heavily influenced by Burundi drums, African tribal music and Eastern melodies.

Your favourite venue in the US is The Lost Leaf where you'll sometimes play three-to-four hour sets. What do you do in four hours that other bands do in 45 minutes?
The Lost Leaf is this little historic house that's been converted into a bar/art gallery so it feels more like a house party than a show. It's a really good vibe and draws a very open-minded crowd, so we stretch things a little - we play a wide variety of originals, improvised fusion, crazy mash-ups and some selective covers (mostly rare Miley Cyrus B-sides). We've played about thirty or so shows at The Lost Leaf (which is about 100+ sets) so it's been really good for keeping our sheeeit together.

Being brothers, you've said you fight a lot. Are you more likely to fight over music or girls?
We're more likely to fight like girls over the music.

What's the weirdest/funniest/dirtiest thing a fan has ever said to you?
At a show recently this girl came up to me and said &**## _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ @#!$& @@#$$. I couldn't understand a fucking word she said.

Which one of you is:
a.) The quirkiest? Jesse - he marches to the beat of a different drummer... which is really confusing given that he actually is the drummer - ba-dum tshh.
b.) The loudest? Outside of shows, Johnny - he even talks to himself loudly… but we'll blame Jesse and his drums if we lose our hearing later in life.
c.) The most popular with the girls? Dylan - he's a ladies' man - you can tell by the way he uses his walk, no time to talk.
d.) The one who's always up for a party? Danny: 'Like with cake? Then me, for sure.'

Your songs are a mixture of a southern American twang mixed with African beats, which is a rare combination to say the least. How would you describe your sound?
Post-post-pre-post-pre-post-modern with a vintage feel. Really, it's a culmination of our influences from all over the world, from every era, with the four of us added in.

If you could play alongside any band, who would you choose and why?
Tinariwen - we've been fans for years and just saw them in Los Angeles a few months ago . Without a doubt one of the best concerts we've ever seen.

Which South African bands are you into right now?
Jack Parow, BLK JKS, Shadowclub, Tumi and the Volume, Zebra and Giraffe, Taxi Violence, Beatenberg... the list goes on, discovering some really great South African bands lately!

Do you prefer recording or playing gigs?
Couldn't really pick. Playing live is a lot easier than recording and more fun in some ways - you get immediate feedback from the audience, which is great... especially for the ego. Recording, for us at least, is quite difficult - we're very meticulous (a.k.a unable to make decisions) and can be perfectionists (a.k.a procrastinators). It pays off in the end, though - when you've spent enough time away from a record, you can go back and listen more enjoyably, without such a critical ear.

You're about to tour South Africa. What can fans expect?
Just four guys playing music that'll get you moving - no big pyrotechnics or production (maybe next time around, the budget will allow for fireworks that spell out our name, synchronized swimmers, and a giant animatronic Candice Swanepoel). We'll be playing material from the upcoming album and a few from our first album - if you have half as much fun as we do, you'll have twice as much fun as people who don't come to the show.* We're really looking forward to seeing and meeting some COSMO readers at our shows!

*results may vary. T's and C's apply.

For a full list of South African tour dates, visit the Kongos website.

Below, watch the official music video for the hit song, 'I'm Only Joking'.

Zeroing In On Zoe

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 12:00 +0200

While not many people will remember her as a ballerina with attitude in 2000's Center Stage, nobody will forget the feisty femininity of her on-screen alter ego, Neytiri, in über blockbuster, Avatar. We all know that it was her Pocahontas-meets-Catwoman brand of exotic sexiness that had viewers transfixed, and played a big role in this movie being a ginormous box-office hit.

As the beautiful daughter of a Dominican father and a Puerto Rican mother, and growing up in the tough milieu of Queens, New York, Zoe had to develop street-smarts from an early age. And it's her unusual background that's led her to be a firm defender of women's rights. She says, 'I feel as though I have a responsibility, being a Latino descendant and a woman, to encourage (the Dominican Republic's) government and their culture to respect women.' We like that about her.

Don't miss her in Colombiana where she plays a badass assassin and rocks the bad-girl role. In cinemas now.

Read page 124 of the November issue of COSMOPOLITAN for the full story.

Dance, You're On Fire

Wed, 26 Oct 2011 12:00 +0200

Jozi band, Dance, You're on Fire, recently released their debut album, Secret Chiefs. Known for banging out high-energy performances, lead singer, Tom Manners spoke to us about nerves, having fun, girls and their ultimate goal: to get your feet tapping.

How would you describe the band's sound?
It's rock-based, essentially. There are a lot of parts to our sound that I find hard to describe, but at the end of the day we're a rock band and we like to play songs that get your feet tapping and make you want to sing along.

How would you describe the band's mood just before going on stage?
Well, it depends on the show. Normally it's pretty jovial and chilled. I was pretty nervous at this year's Oppikoppi because we really wanted to have a good one, but by the time the first track was over, we were 100% 'on' and having a lot of fun.

You are known as one of the most energetic live acts in SA. How do you guys keep up your energy?
We do 100 push-ups every hour while drinking protein shakes. Seriously, though, we just love performing and if the crowd is receptive, we give it even more. We feed off the crowd's energy, so if we're feeling that, you'll usually find us running around having fun.

Out of the four of you, who is the:
a) Funniest: Paul, because he does a wicked 'oom' accent and because he loves the Ninja Turtles.
b) Perfectionist: Adrian, because he's the least likely to make a mistake live.
c) Ladies' man: Definitely Jethro.
d) Peacekeeper: I would probably say me.

Quiet night with friends or a massive party?
It really depends. We were in Cape Town recently to play The Assembly, and at one point Jethro was using Jäger as a mixer for Vodka, so that gives you an idea of what we were up to that night. Back home, we like to take it easy and chill with our friends and girlfriends.

You've said you're inspired by snippets of songs and movies when it comes to song-writing. Has a girl ever inspired your lyrics?
Absolutely. In fact, I would say girls and relationships inspire about 80% of the lyrics I write.

Groupies or girlfriends?
Definitely girlfriends! Everyone needs somebody to come home to.

If you guys could play a gig anywhere in the world, where would it be, with who, and why?
Probably at Wembley Arena in the UK with Circa Survive, Biffy Clyro and Foals. That would be an amazing show. Why? Because those are probably the only three bands we all enjoy as a group - we have pretty diverse tastes.

Which song is your favourite to perform live, and why?
It changes as time goes on. I think it's been 'Blockade' or 'Secret Chiefs' for a long time now, but we're writing a new album so I'm pretty sure it will be one or two new tracks before long.

What is the funniest tweet you've ever received from a fan?
It's hard to pick one. Just the other day we had someone ask us if we would come and play in his living room, so we asked him how comfy his couches are and he favourited the tweet. That was pretty cool.

If a COSMO girl wanted to start a band, what is the one quality she would need to have in order to succeed?
I definitely think she needs to be brave without being arrogant. It can be difficult to summon up the courage to start your first band, but once you've taken the leap it's only upwards from there.

You released your debut album, Secret Chiefs, earlier this year. Have you started working on your next album yet?
Yes we have. We're currently writing and demo-ing, and we're hoping to start recording in the first few months of 2012. We're really excited about this one - it's a little different, but it still represents the essence of what DYOF is about.

Watch the official music video for 'Boxes Of Tigers' below.

Two Days With Zolani

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 12:00 +0200

We asked Zolani to keep a diary of two days in the manic life of a South African superstar. Here, we go behind-the-scenes with one of our country's greatest female musicians.

THURSDAY 6 OCTOBER

7.45 – 8.15am
Breakfast at the Fire & Ice Hotel in Melrose Arch. Green tea, poached eggs and hot oats with cinnamon and honey - and my third-last anti-malaria pill (remnant of Lake Of Stars weekend in Malawi).

8.20am
Shaggy, Julio, Kyla and I drive to Nasrec. Shaggy misses the turnoff because he's driving too fast, but eventually we get there almost two hours early for our gig at the Motor Show. VW sponsors us each with new Polo GTI's and Cross Polos - woohoo! So this is their pound of flesh... a few gigs a year. No sweat! We play from 10 to 10.30am and the crowd goes wild.

12pm
The guys drive me to Carnival City where I do a Symphonic Rocks sound-check with the band for half an hour. All sounds good! Super band... Looking forward to the full orchestra and band rehearsal later.

1.30 - 2pm
Lunch backstage with the crew, the band and Andy Mac (Symphonic Rocks is his brainchild). He is just the sweetest man. I hug him and tuck into my chicken and salad.

2.05 - 2.50pm
I check into the Carnival Club Hotel. Now I have TWO hotel rooms - WHAT?! Time to Facebook the fans for half an hour.

3 -3.30pm
Sound-check with the band and a 65-piece orchestra. Wow - what a rush! So many wonderful musicians filling out the Freshlyground sound. Super-excited for Friday night. Bump into Loyiso and Arno Carstens backstage and find out Loyiso is getting married in a week! He looks a bit exhausted, poor pup. I understand. My brother is getting married the same weekend, and he is also super-stressed. So Loyiso, hang in there, bro.

4 - 6.45pm
Working on some song ideas in my room and watching a bit of telly, seeing as I don't have one at home. It's good to see what people are watching - crap! Silly soapies and reality. Oh, woe...

7 - 8pm
Full show run-through - tomorrow is going to rock indeed!

8.30 - 10pm
Watch a movie on the box. Forgettable, but not bad.

10.15pm - 8am
Bedtime… and into dreamland.

FRIDAY 7 OCTOBER

9 - 9.30am
Breakfast at Carnival City of cinnamon-honey oats, poached eggs and cheese. Yum!

10am
The guys fetch me and take me to Nasrec for the second VW gig which we play at 12.30. Crowd goes wild again - this time over finger food :-)

1.30pm
Back at Carnival City - getting myself ready. And no, not for the show - my boyfriend is getting into Jozi from the Mother City at 4.30pm! I've not seen him in a week and can't wait to hug and kiss him. I'm not disappointed by the reunion…

7 - 7.45pm
At the Heineken tent getting interviewed and photographed by the media and fans. Somebody out there has a picture of me with the Locnville twins, and I want it. Almost show time.

8.20pm
On stage singing three songs with the band and orchestra. It went swimmingly. Watch the rest of the show with my sweetheart and our friends. Excellent, excellent, excellent.

10 - 11pm
Drinking beer! All in all, it has been a wonderful night.

11.45 -7.30am
Sleep time…

Candice's New York

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 12:00 +0200

Candice Boucher shows us her favourite bits of the Big Apple and tells us why she loves them.

Twenty-eight-year-old Candice Boucher's world couldn't be better. This hot South African export, who is one of the faces of Guess Jeans and has appeared in ads for Fila and Speed, as well as gracing the cover of Playboy last year, is about to launch her acting debut in Bollywood production Azaan opposite Shakira and Sachiin Joshi. No shrinking violet (who can forget her daring, see-through dress on the red carpet at this year's Cannes Film Festival?), NYC's fast pace, electric energy and all-round coolness made it the perfect locale for this fresh-faced, home-grown go-getter.

In the October issue of COSMOPOLITAN, Candice takes us a on a behind-the-scenes tour of her life, showing us all her favourite haunts and hang-outs, the café that reminds her of Cape Town's Long Street and her number one chill-out spot for the best tacos in town.

Check out page 132 for a peek at Candice's New York, and why she can't get enough of the city that never sleeps.

Click on the reel below for behind-the-scenes pics from the shoot.

Click on the thumb below and watch behind-the-scenes footage from the shoot.

The Dirty Skirts Come Clean

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 12:00 +0200

They've just released their third album, Lost In The Fall, and they've been touring the country to promote their awesome latest offering. We caught up with the band to hear what they have to say about the writing process, egos and groupie love.

COSMO: Lost in The Fall is your third album. How was the recording process different from you last two albums, and how long did it take to record this one?
'This album was different because we gave ourselves a lot of time - we recorded and mixed it over four months and wrote it over two years. That's very spacious compared to Daddy Don't Disco, which was compressed into six months. It was also different because we produced it ourselves. We took full control of the production process.'

COSMO: What is behind the title of the new album?
'It has multiple meanings, which we won't spell out completely. Google "The Fall" for a start.'

COSMO: How is your first single being received so far?
'Our first single, "Strike the Match" has been very well received. We've heard many people say it's the best song we've ever written. But there's much more to come. We've just released "We're All Gonna Die" on 5FM, which has been rather intense for people to listen to as they drive to work! And we have plenty more singles to come.'

COSMO: What are your personal favourite tracks off this album?
'We love "You Are The Machine" and "Don't Throw Away Your Dancing Shoes". You can listen to the tracks on Sound Cloud.'

COSMO: I'm sure you guys are all creatively involved when making your music. Do you ever reach loggerheads when it comes to deciding what goes into your music, and, if so how do you solve the disputes?
'We don't really fight much when we write. It is definitely an intense process that drags out some dark sludgy sea monsters from the depths of one's ego. So we try to make space for those moments. Sometimes the band room can become a bit weird/stinky when we're writing, so we go next door for a game or five of foosball to become friends again.'

COSMO: You guys have been in the music business for six years now. What has been your most memorable performance?
'I'd say Coke Zero Fest, supporting Oasis and Snow Patrol. And a hundred crazy club performances across the world…'

COSMO: How do you guys handle groupie love?
'Professionally. Read that as you wish.'

COSMO: Who gets the most attention from girls?
'Markie, our drummer. Girls stare at him a lot.'

COSMO: If you could choose to play one of your songs from the new album to a girl, which one would you choose and why?
'"The Holy Hour." It's beautiful, in its own way. It speaks of the times spent with your lover that are like being in deep, warm, dark, soothing water together.

COSMO: Have you ever written a song about a girl you fancied or dated before?
'So many. Wouldn't you?'

Watch the official music video for 'Strike The Match'.

Idols: The Inside Scoop

Thu, 15 Sep 2011 12:00 +0200

From bra-flinging to backstage jitters, ProVerb dishes on what goes down behind-the-scenes on the Idols set.

Best known as South African hip hop artist and the charismatic host of Idols Season 6 and 7, ProVerb has recently been nominated for a Channel O Music Video Award for his new single, 'The Beginning' in the 'Most Gifted Hip Hop Video' category. This talented performer is also an MC, a lecturer, a voice-over artist and an ex-Survivor Santa Carolina contestant. Here, he takes time out of his busy schedule to let COSMO in on the goings-on at this year's Idols competition.

COSMO: If you could sum up your experience of hosting Idols in one word, what would it be?

ProVerb: Phenomenal.

COSMO: Dave and Freddy are extremely popular this season. Who would you say gets the most attention from the girls?

ProVerb: Well during the Top 8 performance show, Mark had a bra and an 'unmentionable' tossed on stage, so I would say he competes well with Freddy and Dave in that department.

COSMO: Who is the funniest contestant?

ProVerb: Dave is undoubtedly the funniest character; he's always playing the fool during rehearsals and backstage.

COSMO: Which contestant gets the most nervous before going on stage?

ProVerb: All the contestants have their fair share of nerves, especially on a Tuesday before the results show, but I would have to say Kelly seemed to get the most nervous.

COSMO: Do you ever get nervous before getting on stage to present?

ProVerb: I get nervous before every single show. It's such a lot of pressure to make sure that all goes well, especially the live shows.

COSMO: Do you ever hang out with the contestants on their days off? If so, what do you guys usually get up to?

ProVerb: No, I think it's very important for me as the host not to befriend the contestants beyond the show as this may affect my objectivity and I have to remain neutral throughout the competition.

COSMO: Which contestant takes the longest to get ready before going on stage?

ProVerb: It's usually the female contestants, as they worry about their makeup, hair and outfits, whereas the fellas just put on what has been laid out for them and throw on some powder.

COSMO: Are there any drama queens amongst the contestants?

ProVerb: Not this season, fortunately.

COSMO: Which perk do you think the contestants enjoy most about this experience: the attention, the glamour or the free stuff?

ProVerb: All of the above - the freebies, the cash, the goodies, the appearances, the VIP treatment, etc etc etc.

COSMO: What, in your opinion, are the main qualities a real star should have?

ProVerb: Beyond the talent, I think humility is very important, and also to be well- spoken and polite. These attributes will serve you well in your career.

Finding Farryl

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 12:00 +0200

We hooked up with Farryl Purkiss to talk wine farms, having Bob Dylan listen to his music and hearing his jams on TV.

Call us cliché, but we're suckers for a cute guy with a guitar. That's why, when we heard that Cape Town-based, Durban-born Farryl was going to have his song, 'Pennies In The Snow', featured on hit-show Private Practice (hear it on tonight's show at 9:30pm on M-Net!), we jumped on the bandwagon to interview him. When he's not making music that major TV producers love, he's chilling on his wine farm with his girlfriend (sorry, ladies). We caught up with Farryl for a chat before another international tour scooped him up…

Let's talk about 'Pennies In The Snow'. How did it end up on Private Practice?
I'm not really sure [laughs]. I'm always the last to know these things. They had used a piano mix of mine before so they had me in their books already. I'm guessing they just listened to my song and liked it! Thankfully.

You've been featured on a major TV show and on various ad campaigns too. Was that what you initially intended for your music?
There are two sides to the industry; the music and business. At the end of the day I still have rent to pay and food to buy, so I'm very grateful for the advertising campaigns and TV shows that allow me to make money from my music. It also opens people up to my music, and that's a blessing too. There has been a huge response from people after hearing my stuff on TV.

What's 'Pennies In The Snow' about?
It's about hanging onto the past and not moving forward or moving on.

How would you describe your sound?
I don't really like to use genres, because I don't want to pigeon hole myself into one genre. My music is always evolving, always changing. It goes in a different direction on every album. I guess, I'd just say I'm a singer/songwriter.

You covered Bob Dylan's 'Positively Fourth Street'. Did you feel any pressure to make it great?
I had to do three songs for a campaign and one of them was 'Positively Fourth Street'. In the end, that's the one they chose to use. I heard later that Dylan actually had to listen to the song and sign it off! Luckily they didn't tell me that before, because I would have been so nervous. It was a huge honour knowing he had heard me sing his song, and liked it - I was super stoked.

You've toured Australia, Europe, and the USA. Were you ever shocked at the fact that you could attract a crowd overseas?
Yes! The truth is, if I didn't have a record company and a team of people promoting me, I'd be nowhere. I just make music. When I have a tour I just rock up and hope people are there. And, when it's crowded it's a very odd feeling. I'm super blessed, not everyone gets to travel and be a musician. I just make music and drive where I'm told to go.

When can we expect your next album?
Early next year. I'll be going into studio at the end of the year, and I'll hopefully get it over with quickly. Being in the studio can be tough; I could keep working on the album forever, but then the feeling inevitably gets watered down. Eventually I have to let it go.

Do you have any artists you'd like to work with in the future?
At the moment I'm collaborating with Pierre from Die Heuwels Fantasties. In terms of international bands, the list could go on and on… I'd kill to work with so many, I can't single one out.

If you weren't singing, what would you be doing for money?
Probably working at a video shop, or maybe being a marine biologist (I thought of that for a bit after school). When I finished school I had no idea what I wanted to do. I'm crap in the office; I've been fired twice. Maybe I'd open my own coffee shop, where I could play my vinyls and drink coffee all day long.

What's your process when you write a song?
I start with the music first. I never write lyrics first; that is the structure I'm used to. I don't necessarily sit down and think 'I'll write a song now'. The first line will come and that will be the bones of the song. Sometimes I have to stop and look back to see what I've written. You have to wait for lyrics; they'll come to you. You can't force it.

When you're not singing or song writing, what are you doing?
I live on a wine farm with my girlfriend, and we're hermits [laughs]. I sit with a glass of wine; I have friends over and we braai and play tunes. I also surf. I'm not very social; you won't find me hitting the clubs very often.

COSMO girls have to know - what do you find attractive in women?
I like women that are strong, intelligent and challenging.

Farryl's album Fruitbats & Crows has been repackaged as a 2CD Special Edition with a Bonus Disc which includes unreleased songs and some brand new material, including the piano mix of 'Sticks & Stones'. It's available now. Farryl will be on MK Studio 1 on Thursday the 15th of September. Mail elle.oosthuizen@mnet.co.za to be part of the studio audience.

Nonhle: An Update!

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:00 +0200

In our September issue, we took a look around Nonhle Thema’s Twitter timeline. In case Twitter isn’t your thing, the Nonhle Goes to Hollywood star has come under fire recently for her tweets, some of which include the likes of ‘the more HATE YOU GIVE ME. The MORE POWER YOU GIVE ME’.

Her Twitter rants became so popular that hash-tag #NonhleTendencies, where tweeters would joke about behaving like a diva, started trending. ‘I'm going to take an hour long nap. When I wake up, I'll be 1 000k richer, deal haters, but you secretly love me #NonhleTendencies,’ tweeted @ElcaptainAy.

When we spoke to Nonhle she told us ‘I was bullied on Twitter for so long. Now, I’m not standing for it. That’s why I had to go on and on [like I did] on Twitter, to show people that I’m no longer scared of them’.

At the time, Nonhle was still endorsing the Dark and Lovely brand. However, we have now been given this statement from SoftSheen Carson: ‘In light of her on-going comments on twitter, SoftSheen Carson has decided to end its collaboration with Nonhle Thema. We wish her the best in her future endeavours.’

Keeping Up With Kim

Thu, 18 Aug 2011 12:00 +0200

Previously known as an America socialite alongside the likes of Paris Hilton and Nicole Richie, Kim Kardashian is now much more than a paparazzi favourite.

The hit reality TV series, Keeping up with the Kardashians is one of E! Entertainment's most-watched programmes and with Kourtney and Kim Take New York also wowing viewers, Kim really is the busy and successful beauty and fashion icon that the media make her out to be.

The model, actress, co-producer and co-author can now add an up-and-coming fashion line and fragrance to her ever-expanding CV.

What's clogging up the newsstands is, however, Kim's love life. After vowing to take a break from relationships and focus more on her work (we can understand why!), Kim shocked us all again by announcing her engagement to basketball player Kris Humphries. And what can we say about the wedding? Simply gorgeous!

Want to read more about her big decision? Pick up the September issue of COSMOPOLITAN and flick to page 94. On sale now!

Adapt Or Die

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:00 +0200

Meet Double Adapter: an electro music/graphics duo made up of über-talented brothers, Tim and Dan Apter. Tim's on music and Dan's on visuals. They're ripping up the local electro scene and they've just returned from a massive European tour, which was filmed and turned into a three-part documentary for MK. Excuse us. They also happen to be our Hot Talent for the September issue of COSMOPOLITAN (on sale 22 August). Here, they chat to us about German crowds, electro trash and Oppikoppi.

How would you describe Double Adapter's sound?

Tim: We play a genre of electro called electro trash. It has a lot of influences from rock, indie and metal music. We do mix it up a lot though, and are big fans of contrasting pop and electro through our sets to keep it accessible for everyone.
Dan: In a way we're a lot harder than other SA electro acts but at the same time we really like to keep it very fun loving.

What do you hope people take away from your gigs?

Tim: If a person wakes up the next day and thinks 'Good party', then we're happy.

Tell us a little about the tour...?

Tim: We toured through Holland, Germany, Italy, Austria and The Czech Republic earlier this year on our Adapt Or Die tour. The reception was absolutely amazing. It was quite an eye-opener to see the impact that the internet is having on smaller artists like us; the fact that we could go to Germany and draw a crowd of people that liked the music we play is astounding. We will be going back to Europe at the end of this year for our second tour, so I think that definitely speaks to how well the tour went.

You just got back from playing at the Oppikoppi festival. How was it?

Dan: Oppikoppi was amazing. It's always been a dream to play there and lots of excitement went down! I've never seen a crowd so big and excited before.
Tim: It was crazy; the best gig we've ever played by far. We performed after Sibot, who is one of our heroes, and it was such an honour. We just blew the stage to smithereens. It was also the first time that we'd played with a live drummer and guitarist, which made it even radder.

What are the top five songs on your iPod right now?

Dan: 'Rope' - Foo Fighters, 'Eyes on Fire' - Blue Foundation (Zeds Dead remix), 'Everything is Everything' - Phoenix, 'Conversation Intercom' - Soulwax and 'Disaster' - Ira Atari.
Tim: I lost my iPod.

I can't friggen wait for summer because…

Dan: I don't have to wear socks.
Tim: I can wear my man sarong - like Ashton Kutcher.

What can we expect from you in the future?

Tim: The rest of 2011 is all about taking things as they come - we're primarily a gigging duo. If we aren't playing, we aren't happy, so we'll be trying to play as much as possible. I think we can safely say that we'll be doing a summer tour, and also that people can expect our debut release any moment now! Keep your eyes on our Facebook page for mixtapes, videos, news and show dates.

Check out more from Double Adapter in our Hot Talent section in the September issue of COSMOPOLITAN – on sale 22 August.

Six Winters - Laurie Levine

Thu, 11 Aug 2011 12:00 +0200

Undeniably similar to the chilled out vibe of Angus and Julia Stone, and recently compared to music royalty Katie Melua and Lucinda Williams, Laurie Levine's new album is the contemporary chill-out music we've been waiting for.

Country-folk is very much present in Levine's raw and creamy vocals, but there is a new musical intelligence in the composition of each song - including sounds from the banjo, violin, guitar and many other diverse instruments. Six Winters exposes Levine more emotionally than her previous two albums, enabling the listener to really connect with the music.

This album would be perfect to listen to while on a road trip or when drinking a glass of your favourite red wine. Enjoy.

BEST TRACKS: 'I Won't Ask Him Why', 'Six Winters', 'Where My Soul Sings'

A Mind Of Her Own

Tue, 12 Jul 2011 12:00 +0200

Most people think of Cameron Diaz as the bubbly blonde A-lister whose characters leave you gasping for breath. But, this beautiful actress has accomplished much more than simply having the ability to make people crack up; even if we all remember that Something About Mary moment. Okay, okay, stop giggling...

Cameron has received praise for her roles in the films Gangs Of New York and Being John Malkovich, but it's her new project, alongside ex-boyfriend, Justin Timberlake that should get everybody talking. While there is definitely a funny factor to Bad Teacher (coming to a screen near you in September), the plot is based on a sex-crazed teacher who enjoys smoking weed (a lot) and is trying to save for a boob job. Hmmm, this should be interesting. Watch this space.

To find out more about Cameron's new role, her relationship with Alex Rodríguez and how her father's death has affected her life, read page 102 in the August issue of COSMOPOLITAN. On sale now!

Rocking Rihanna

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 12:00 +0200

Can we even remember a music world without Riri? This flame-haired, crazy-sexy pop diva has achieved so much in the short time she's been around, it's hard to believe she's only 23-years-old. But, then watch her doing her own (pretty scary) stunts in her new movie, Battleship (she fought so hard with director Peter Berg against using a stuntwoman that eventually he agreed to let her do the stunts herself), and you start to get a sense of the self-confidence and inner strength that helped catapult her to fame.

Her toughness can be attributed, at least in part, to being teased relentlessly at school for having light skin, and it was this same strong sense of self that fuelled the no-holds-barred way she handled the Chris Brown domestic violence incident. The candidness, intelligence and strength with which she spoke out sent an important message to women around the world. She says, 'I'm open to love, but guys have to earn it.' We couldn't agree more.

Read more about our cover star on page 82 of the July issue of COSMOPOLITAN.

King Of Limbs - Radiohead

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 12:00 +0200

It might have been a long wait, but Radiohead's eighth album is finally here.

Whenever you ask someone what their favourite Radiohead album is, the answers always seem to be a mixture between OK Computer, Kid A and The Bends. Without fail. The question is: will King Of Limbs make your list?

Despite the fact that this album only has a meagre 10 tracks, Radiohead doesn't disappoint. Moving away from a distinctly '90s sound, King Of Limbs offers the listener a mix of electro-rock beats and folk-alternative melodies.

Even if you're not a Radiohead fan, perhaps you should give this release a listen. It might just change your mind.

BEST TRACKS: 'Lotus Flower', 'Codex', 'Give Up The Ghost'

Measured In Falls - Ashtray Electric

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 12:00 +0200

You need to take notice of this band, if you haven't already, that is.

After their first full-length recording, Bonjour, Ashtray Electric knew they needed to up their game for their sophomore release, ensuring they didn't make the same mistakes so many local bands have made when bringing out a second album. Second-rate songs, poor recordings and clichéd lyrics needed to be avoided.

After listening to the album, it's clear Ashtray Electric hasn't made any of these mistakes. Measured In Falls flows from slow alternative melodies to epic breaks and beats. The songs and lyrics are innovative. The riffs are catchy. The production is flawless.

Never underestimate what four boys from Bellville can do. Buy this album: you will not be disappointed.

BEST TRACKS: 'Over and Over', 'Here Comes The Rain Again', 'Angst'

Awesome Agyness Deyn

Mon, 30 May 2011 12:00 +0200

I was lucky enough to be flown up to Durban by Mr Price to attend the inaugural 031 Collection, which showcased the style and talent of the city's established and emerging designers – as well as an exclusive range presented by Mr Price, styled by British international supermodel Agyness Deyn.

Agyness has always been a fashion icon in my eyes. Not only is she beautiful, friendly, humble and down-to-earth, she has to be the most easy-going, chilled celeb I have ever interviewed. It was like talking to your best friend. Listen to the full interview and hear what she had to say.

The Last Of The Supermodels?

Fri, 20 May 2011 12:00 +0200

As the highest paid model in the world, Giselle Bündchen thanks her lucky stars.

No man or woman alive has watched that body sashay down the catwalk in all its lithe, bronze, Brazilian-ness and not been awed by its sheer perfection. As the highest paid model in the world with the most covers in the fashion industry, it comes as a surprise, to those who meet her, how earthy and maternal this 30-year-old mega-success really is. A completely devoted mother to baby Benjamin Reid, her natural home birth, despite the celebrity trend of medicalised elective C-sections, is testimony to this girl's mettle, and she describe the event – attended by her mother, boyfriend and mid-wife - as 'life-changing.'

While she has the unfair advantage of her scorching Brazilian genes (these girls can't help oozing sex), it's her fresh-faced, sun-kissed beauty that landed her huge campaigns with Dior, Versace, Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana, amongst a long list of others. She says, 'Being grateful is the secret to happiness. You can choose to see what you have in life, or what you don't have. I choose to see what I have.'

Read more about our awesome cover star on page 96 of the June issue of COSMO – out now.

Femme Fatale - Britney Spears

Tue, 26 Apr 2011 12:00 +0200

As a global megastar, Britney Spears has proved that she is not only able to create alter egos for herself, but also allow her fans to morph into another world via her playful pop.

Her recently released album, Femme Fatale takes us on a cushy and lyrically frivolous ride. Peppered in the 12-track mix you'll be surprised to find a bit of dub-step, break-it-down beats and more familiar dance rhythms. The album seems to probe deeper into her life story with song titles like 'Up and Down' and 'Trouble for Me'. But no worries, Brit's back on top and the only trouble you'll have with the album is hoping the beats don't stop before the night is out!

BEST TRACKS: 'Hold It Against Me', 'Till The World Ends', '(Drop Dead) Beautiful'

Listen to Femme Fatale here:

Swiftly To The Top

Fri, 15 Apr 2011 12:00 +0200

It's not often that a country-music star makes it big in the pop-music world, but 21-year-old Taylor Swift's astonishing talent (and face of an angel and perfect body) have catapulted her to the ranks of superstar.

While most 16-year-old girls are wondering if that cute boy will ask them out, Taylor's first album, Taylor Swift, was going triple-platinum, and she fast became the hottest thing on the country scene. Not that that stopped her from experiencing the kind of angst teenage girls inevitably go through - and writing about it in her songs. The world got to hear her innermost feelings about actor Taylor Lautner, big love Joe Jonas and captain of heartbreak, John Mayer – not to mention that 'incident' with Kanye West. We imagine latest ex, Jake Gyllenhaal, is fidgety as he watches this space...

Her latest album, Speak Now, sold more than a million copies in its first week of release – proof, indeed, that the world is listening.

Find out more about our beautiful new cover girl on page 110 of the May issue of COSMOPOLITAN.

Wilde About Olivia

Wed, 16 Mar 2011 12:00 +0200

It takes more than a pretty face to make the transition from TV to blockbuster movies, and Olivia Wilde's effortless sashay to the big time is proof that this actress has some serious talent.

On page 90 of the April 2011 issue of COSMOPOLITAN find out more about Olivia Wilde's exciting journey from 2003's girl-on-girl action in The O.C. and her role in the hit series, House, to playing alongside names like Harrison Ford, Jeff Bridges and Ryan Reynolds on the big screen.

Hear what she has to say about her role as a fashion icon, her untamed imagination and what it's like being compared to Megan Fox and Angelina Jolie. Best of all, find out how down-to-earth this incredible beauty really is.

Mila The Magnificent

Wed, 16 Feb 2011 12:00 +0200

She was the one who made us all laugh in That '70s Show, the renowned sitcom where, let's face it, no one really took her seriously. Now, after starring in a string of successful films, from Forgetting Sarah Marshall to the Oscar-darling, Black Swan, Mila Kunis is finally getting the recognition she so rightly deserves.

On page 92 of the March issue of COSMOPOLITAN, Mila speaks candidly about her tough upbringing, health issues, happiness, and, of course, that oh-so-steamy sex scene with Black Swan co-star Natalie Portman.

All we can say is we're rooting for this fun, completely fearless female. Not that she needs it.

Don't Mess With Me!

Tue, 25 Jan 2011 12:00 +0200

Whether it was an accident or deliberate, there are some celebrities you just don't mess with.

While we would have loved to include Christian Bale's famous on-set rant, we're sure you understand why we've chosen to keep it on the down-low (talk about a foul mouth!). While these clips aren't exactly PG13 either, we simply couldn't resist giving you a peek.

From Kanye West to Seth Green, we've found some of the best (or worst, depending on how you look at it) celebrity freak-outs for you to check out, so get clicking…

Seth Green is not a happy camper…

Kate Moss has a diva moment…

Singer, Bjork, loses her cool.

Yet another Kanye West freak out…

Superbad star Michael Cera has a moment…

Clearly, it's not a good idea to mess with Akon.

Shia LaBeouf is not impressed.

We couldn't help ourselves. There are just so many to choose from…

Vampire Vixen

Wed, 12 Jan 2011 12:00 +0200

It's only been two years since hit-series Twilight turned teeny-tiny beauty, 23-year-old Ashley Greene, into a big-time A-lister. When asked how she went from being a shy teen with self-confidence issues to the hottest thing in Hollywood, she thanks her mom for taking her to modelling classes to overcome her self-consciousness. When her diminutive stature stood between her and the catwalk, she decided to dabble in acting classes instead and realised, almost instantly, that this was what she wanted to do.

Her parents took a deep breath and allowed their underage daughter to leave home for the bright lights of L.A. where she took on small roles till her agent told her about a new movie based on a book called Twilight. At the audition, casting agents knew that she was perfect for the role of 18-year-old Alice Cullen, and with Twilight's cult-following, Ashley's life was turned upside down. Of her five up-coming movies and a brand-new contract as the face of Mark cosmetics, Ashley is not all that surprised: 'I sort of knew this would happen to me. You have to have that mentality – that it's going to happen – in order to make it.' And make it, she certainly has.

Burlesque Babe

Tue, 14 Dec 2010 12:00 +0200

Singer Christina Aguilera's name is about to get even bigger as she shows off her multiple talents in her first-ever feature film, Burlesque. One of the few child stars to successfully make it big, this tiny woman with the huge voice has been creating hit singles for more than a decade. In Burlesque she plays Ali, a young girl who leaves her small hometown in Iowa for the bright lights of Los Angeles where Tess, the owner of a burlesque club (played by Cher) gives her a job as a waitress.

Being in front of the camera is nothing new, of course – in addition to starring in The All New Mickey Mouse Club at the age of 13, she has also played cameo roles in various TV shows and films. But, despite her mounting success, all has not been smooth-sailing: as the film went into post-production, Christina announced that she and husband Jordan Bratman had split. Christina is getting through the pain of the break by surrounding herself with friends and family, but it's not easy. On page 89 of the January 2011 issue of COSMOPOLITAN, Christina tells us about this new chapter in her life...

Head Girls

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00 +0200

Blasting her way to super-stardom, in-your-face gorgeous Tanit Phoenix's career couldn't be on a faster track. And it isn't her looks alone that have had this South African supermodel from the Midlands taking the USA by storm, beating American starlets to coveted movie-roles. To date, Tanit has starred alongside some serious Hollywood heavy-weights, including Nicholas Cage and Jared Leto (in Lord of War), Wesley Snipes (in Gallowwalker) and Danny Trejo (Death Race 2).

While rumours of her getting the coveted role of Wonderwoman are the talk of Tinseltown, the role closest to Tanit's heart is of vampy drama teacher, Eve, in South African feature film, Spud: The Movie, featuring John Cleese and fellow South African actress and COSMO cover-girl, Charlbi Dean Kriek.

When movie producers first laid eyes on this shy, fresh-faced beauty they knew, instantly, that Charlbi Dean Kriek was the perfect choice for the role of beautiful, aloof Amanda in Spud: The Movie. An accidental model, Charlbi was offered a modelling job while studying acting at Cape Town's Waterfront Theatre School. After that, jobs kept pouring in, but she never took her eyes off the main prize. Even though the thought of her first film being a major feature starring veteran John Cleese, was (understandably) a terrifying prospect, she overcame her jitters and aced the role.

With a successful movie on her CV, Charlbi is currently based in New York where she is auditioning for other roles. She is grateful that her first film was shot in South Africa because 'the cast was like a big family, and... it helped me ease into things.'

Don't miss reading about the amazing Tanit and gorgeous Charlbi on page 110 of the December 2010 issue of COSMOPOLITAN.

A One-Man Show

Thu, 04 Nov 2010 12:00 +0200

One-man band, The Sick-leaves, is rocking the alternative SA music scene with two SAMA (South African Music Awards) nominations and a 'Best Album' award in skateboarding magazine, Blunt. Headed by Ermelo-born Eksteen Jacobz, who started his musical career in the UK as part of The Infidels, their first album in 2005, Tunnel Vision, boasted four top-ten singles on campus radio stations around the country, and received much-coveted airplay on 5fm. The band's second album, Stone the Crow, was released in 2008 and faired even better on the local music scene, while 'Missing', a cover-track of the hit single by British band Everything but the Girl, reached number one on Highveld Stereo and KFM's local top ten chart, 'The Homebrew Top Ten'. Their much-anticipated third album, Last Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy, was released in March of this year.

Would you ever merge with other people to form a bigger band, or are you happy being a solo act?
Obviously, if I found the right people who had the same things in mind, musically, and we were fully compatible as human beings, then I would consider it, [but] for now I'm quite happy with the way things are – it's much less complicated.

What is the story behind your name, and what was the creative inspiration behind Last Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy?
I got the name from a book, Higher than the Eagle Soars, by Stephen Venables. I liked the ring of it, and the imagery it created. There was no influence from The Nutcracker! Emotionally, I was in a different universe from the previous two albums, and this is why it sounds so different from the first two. I also had a different producer and drummer on board, which contributed [a lot] to the new sound.

How is The Last Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy different from the previous albums?
Theme-wise, it deals with much more than just relationships. The mood is also much more positive. Sonically, I cut out everything that was not absolutely necessary. It's also an album where my experience shows with regards to recording and having been around the block, so to speak, in the music industry. It felt like I had a license to go into the studio and record just what I felt like without being constrained by critics' opinions or the fans' expectations.

Was it challenging to release a new album after having the last two nominated for SAMAs?
I felt that sort of pressure more with the second album. The first album was such a huge step and accomplishment for me that I did think, for a while, 'how on earth am I going to top this?', but then you get stuck in there and before you know it, there are 20 songs ready to be recorded again. What also helped with the new album [was] that I had a very clear idea, right from the beginning, as to what I wanted to do and how I wanted the album to sound.

Your video for 'All These Foolish Things (I've Said)' was nominated for an MK award this year - what made you decide to have an animated video?
I did my first video for 'Missing' in black and white, so I wanted something totally the opposite that was fun and interesting to look at. The idea for animation somehow came up and [then] it was just a case of finding the right person to do it. The added bonus is that you don't need cameras, locations, a crew or extras, so it's a big advantage if you want to cut costs

How would you describe the sound of The Sick Leaves?
This is a weird question because the way I perceive the sound might be totally different for someone else; pretty much the same as with how you see yourself and how other people perceive you to be. When I started I wanted the biggest, meanest wall-of-sound sort of thing, but it has changed over the years. I still love epic-anthem-like songs, but with much more dynamics. A good guitar tone is what I live for, so I guess it would be safe to say The Sick-Leaves has a guitar-driven/alternative rock sound.

What are your plans for the future?
At the moment I'm studying again, so things are a little slow on the live front, but I am busy writing new songs for an EP that I want to record early next year. It will only be available digitally, and the inspiration for it is music for films. It won't be sent out for any reviews, nor will it be sent to radio for play-listing.

What are three things your fans don't know about you?
I'm ambidextrous, I'm a huge sports fan (playing and watching) - I played provincial tennis and cricket at school - and I like all animals apart from snakes.

Any message to your fans?
Do what you love and do it well. The rest will fall into place.

Mission Kimpossible

Wed, 20 Oct 2010 12:00 +0200

Whether you know her as a reality TV superstar, a savvy businesswoman or that girl who made that sex tape, the name Kim Kardashian is on the lips of just about everyone at the moment.

And it's no wonder. The voluptuous star is hard to miss. If her relationships aren't splashed across the tabloids, her perfume is headlining entertainment news or she's tweeting about her life to more than five million followers. Either way, Kim Kardashian is in your face, whether you like it or not.

On page 109 in the November issue of COSMOPOLITAN, find out her thoughts on cellulite, cupcake addictions, ambition, and of course, her rollercoaster love life.

Watch the videos of her cover shoot with our US sister magazine, and then she reveals how to get anything you want!

Lovin' Loyiso

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 12:00 +0200

Shakira, Akon, John Legend, Elton John: these are just some of the many stars Loyiso Bala has performed alongside since he exploded onto the South African music scene. Fresh off the Idols stage and with a new album about to drop, we caught up with this celebrated artist.

Here, find out what turns Loyiso on (and off), what loves means to him, which star he'd like to hook up with and what makes him proudly South African. And don't forget to rate him in our Candy Box either…

1. Your new album is about to drop. What can we expect from this release?
I was listening through all of the songs and I think, more than anything, this album speaks from my heart. It's really just who I am right now – back to the singer/songwriter. It seems like a whole new beginning and it's an honest work. This time around, I wasn't listening to artists like Shakira and Justin Timberlake, which I used to a lot. I feel like I haven't left anything behind.

2. What would you do to get a girl's attention?
You know the saying 'Bad guys always win?' Well, I think nice guys always win. I really do! These days there are so many bad guys and it's a competition to see who can be the worst. To be honest, I think a smile always catches someone's attention. If you smile at someone and say 'Hi,' there's no way they're not going to greet you back.

3. Creative people, musicians included, tend to be attracted to each other. Which artist would you definitely hook up with?
I don't think there is anyone really! But, then again, even my girlfriend knows I have a huge crush on Pink. If you're inspired by someone, it often comes through in your music. I don't necessarily like everything Pink does, but I like her approach to what she does. Nobody will do it like Pink does it. She's a bit like the new Madonna. She doesn't always have a number one single, but she will always be in the top five. It's a safe place to be. Enough about Pink now though…!

4. What defines your style?
I like to be comfortable and I like simplicity. Put it this way: bling on its own is good, but bling-bling is just too much.

5. What, in your opinion, makes a girl sexy?
The way a girl looks and the way she carries herself makes her sexy. The worst thing for me is when bad girls try to act nice and good girls try to act bad. Women must stay true to who they are – that's what makes them sexy. For example, I love shy girls who look shy and rock girls who look rock, but the other way around is a turn-off. It doesn't work. You must be who you are.

6. What's your biggest turn off?
My biggest turn-off is a girl who doesn't think before she speaks. You must always support what you're saying and whatever you say must come from your heart. Another turn-off is when I know a girl is speaking in a certain way because she thinks that I think it's attractive. I might not even be like that!

7. Is your latest single 'Wrong For You' simply giving tips to guys on how to break up with a girl 'nicely?' What's the real message?
'Wrong For You' is one of the most honest things a guy could ever say to a girl. It's that thing you hope to say, but you never do. What it's trying to say is that you're perfect in your own way and as you are, but you're just not perfect for me and we're not perfect for each other – I am actually wrong for you. And that's honest.

The second single, 'World of Mine', which I performed on Idols, speaks about all the things a guy wants to do with a girl, like kissing in the dark, strolling in the park and travelling. This song is encouraging because it's about old-skool love. We need to get back to the values of what it really means to treat a woman well. Let's fall in love like we used to. It's the secret! I think I'm going to write a book…

8. You've travelled and played concerts around the world. What makes you proudly South African?
I've been to countries where the government really looks after you no matter what – and in terms of lifestyle, there are better places to live. However, the reason I'll never leave this country is because of the people. South Africa has the friendliest people in the world. South Africa might not be the richest country out there, but the richness is in the culture. It's very hard to find Ubuntu anywhere else.

9. What do you like best about a COSMO girl?
COSMO girls are sexy women with character.

Want to hear more from Loyiso? Visit his website or follow him on Twitter.

Love The Way You Lie

Tue, 12 Oct 2010 12:00 +0200

'It's something that needed to be done,' Rihanna told MTV. 'And the way [Eminem] did it was so clever. You know, he pretty much just broke down the cycle of domestic violence, and it's something that a lot of people don't have a lot of insight on, so this song was really, really – it's a powerful song.'

It is a powerful song. Eminem's second single off the biggest CD release of the year, Recovery, is called 'Love the Way You Lie'. The song fits neatly into Eminem's comeback persona which is all about contrition and overcoming past weakness (addiction, weak songs, spousal abuse). He's clean now, the hype goes, and he's moving on. Bigger and better than ever.

The track, easily one of the strongest out there, was a Billboard number one for seven weeks. That's a long time in the download era. The song also won a best rap/hip hop gong at this year's Teen Choice Awards. Forget the Grammy's, there's no bigger indicator of cultural impact than the Teen Choice Awards. It means you're in teens' heads. Precisely where you want to be as a commercial artist. The video has had over 150 million hits on Youtube and remains the 'most viewed' over a 24 hour period in the history of the site. Beating out the Sneezing Panda!

THE TAINTED NARRATOR
It's clear that after virtually disappearing for five years, the rapper is still a force in global pop. Is that a good thing though? Eminem isn't exactly Miley Cyrus or Justin Bieber. He once fantasized about decapitating his wife in a song called 'Kim' – which gleefully relayed the sounds of her murder. In another massive hit, 'Stan', a deranged fan apes the imagined crime in 'Kim' for real on his pregnant girlfriend. Eminem's incredible linguistic flow is all too often given over to sexually aggressive anti-social imagery with tremendous appeal to kids sick of the dumbed down fakery of so much global entertainment.

Given his relationship history, and the undeniably misogynistic thrust of his back catalogue, do we really need bulletins on domestic violence from as tainted and unreliable a narrator as Eminem? Public service and NGO outreach budgets can't even begin to match the exposure the rapper enjoys. Plus all they have to offer is a litany of abuse stats. Globally, according to the UN, one in three women are 'beaten or sexually abused in her lifetime'. One in five adolescent girls are victims of physical or sexual violence in a dating relationship in America – where a woman is beaten or battered every 15 seconds. It's every six seconds in South Africa where only one in nine women ever report sexual assault. Which may have something to do with the 5% conviction rate for offenders and a relentlessly sexist culture. As Rihanna put it, 'it is something a lot of people don't have a lot of insight on.' Scary then that Eminem will have the final word on the subject for so many global teens.

But what is being communicated in 'Love the Way You Lie'? Given his remarkable linguistic facility, Eminem is far more slippery than the average 'bitch/ho' spouting rapper. There's always a self-referring twist with Eminem. 'No rapper has ever made clearer,' writes respected rock critic Robert Christgau, 'especially to young whites who view black rappers as romantic outlaws, that hip hop is a verbal construct, not to be taken literally.' In other words, Eminem's kingdom, and he remains one of the most commercially successful artists of the recent decade, is a kingdom of talk. Often rotten talk – but talk nevertheless. It's not only that, as Christgau puts, it, 'his artistry justifies his offensive content', but more crucially that Eminem's 'offensive content is the essence of his artistry'.

EMINEM'S RECOVERY
Part of Eminem's comeback, his Recovery, is about explaining or exploring his own offensiveness. Using the language of rehab: owning up to his past. Taking responsibility. Especially given that Relapse, his album before Recovery (which Eminem himself disses on his self-empowerment anthem off the new release 'Not Afraid', although selling well) was roundly panned by critics for weak lyrics, half-baked ideas and a lackluster sense of running on empty. Recovery is an Eminem reboot. Marshall 2.0. The sound of an artist sorting through his own past from a fresh angle. 'Love the Way You Lie' covers the on-again/off-again abusive marriage to Kim that ultimately failed. It looks at the rowdy inner life of that bad romance.

The big budget 'event video' of the song features Transformer's babe Megan Fox acting out, making out and shoplifting with some guy from Lost. There's a lot of simulated aggression. A lot of shouting and vague intensity. Signifying? Well next to nothing really. It's just pop imagery that borrows from art house cinema, advertising and fashion photography. Slick and prettifying. Tellingly we never see the actual consequences of violence. Fox's porno face retains its blank era-defining CGI quality throughout. No broken teeth or bruises. This immediately suggests we're in the realm of fantasy. Which is precisely where Eminem's best work works. This is not a Public Service announcement. It's a pop song. A very good, precision-engineered one. With one of the strongest pure pop hook choruses since Beyonce's 'Single Ladies' or Lady Gaga's 'Pokerface'.

ADDING A (FAMOUS) FACE TO ABUSE
Rihanna, who sings the haunting chorus, and is the most famous victim of domestic violence on the planet since the publicised beating she took from pretty boy R&B smoothie, Chris Brown, provides a kind of associational cover for Eminem. She's been there. And she's also very candid about the bottom line, about what really matters for commercial brands like pop stars: 'I knew if he sent me a record, there must be something to it. The lyrics are so deep and beautiful. It's something I connected to, which made me think it was a hit. And I want to be part of a hit.' She is. A big hit. One of the biggest hits of the year. But look at what Eminem's has her sing.

'Just gonna stand there and watch me burn / But that's alright because I like the way it hurts / Just gonna stand there and hear me cry / But that's alright because I love the way you lie.'

It's the ultimate male fantasy to imagine your abusiveness is enjoyable to her deep down. That she gets off on it. That she really wants you to beat her. In an act of passionate love. Beat her, as so often happens around the globe, to death even. After all, Romeo and Juliet both died. There's a comingling of abuse and desire here. It's not alright. Especially coming from someone so famously abused. The online imagery of Rihanna's battered face is far more disturbing than anything in the video. That's the reality of assault. The video turns pain into pleasure, abuse into sex, and sweeps great mountains of evidence that domestic violence is chiefly male-to-female under the carpet. It equalizes a very unequal reality. Women thrive on the drama is its subtext, need violent proof of passion, and are equally to blame for abuse. Which is negligent nonsense. Yet again the real fascination behind Eminem's career is how far consumers let him go.

Don't Panic

Thu, 30 Sep 2010 12:00 +0200

Jacobus Johannes van Heerden is yet another Bellville artist – but instead of choosing to follow his friends and start an Afrikaans rock band, he decided to follow his love for pop and electro. The result? A blend of 80s-styled pop, catchy lyrics and crazy dance moves.

Don't let his eccentric persona fool you. In our interview, this talented artist chats about what it's like making music in South Africa with fellow band-mate, Fokofpolisiekar's Johnny De Ridder, his latest obsession with masks, the new album, I Am Jax Panik and, of course, how he would prepare for a nerve-wracking first date. Hint: it involves a whole lot of pampering and more than one look in the mirror…

Listen to the full interview here.

Follow Jax Panik on Twitter (http://twitter.com/jaxpanik), or check out his blog (http://iamjaxpanik.com/blog/), MySpace profile (http://www.myspace.com/jaxpanik) and Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/jaxpanik1).

101 LOLs

Fri, 24 Sep 2010 12:00 +0200

There is nothing like having a good laugh. After reading ‘101 LOLs’ on page 80 in COSMOPOLITAN’s October issue, click on the YouTube links below and watch the hilarious videos featured in the article. We added a few more to keep you laughing out loud for longer this weekend.

1. Models Falling Down
While it’s not a great trait to laugh at other people’s misfortunes, watching a model wobble down the runway and fall flat on her face is funny. Seriously.

2. Jeff Vuvuzela
Will Ferrell is known for his hilarious antics and crazy impersonations. Here, he pretends to be the inventor of the vuvuzela. Classic.

3. Viral Old Spice Ad
Old Spice was often thought of as an old, fuddy-duddy scent, meant only for Dads and wrinkly types. Looks like they’ve redefined their brand. You’ve got to love it.

4. Shatner Does Palin
While William Shatner is a legend in the comedy world, US politician, Sarah Palin is often considered to be a bit of joke. Here, he impersonates her well-known, rambling speeches.

But, watch as she bites back. Good for her!

Reunited

Fri, 17 Sep 2010 12:00 +0200

Babies, beauty and love – just some of the reasons why the COSMO team want to see these celebrity couples back together again.

Who: Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy
Why: ‘I would like to see Jim Carrey and Jenny McCarthy back together because they looked like a great couple,’ says junior fashion assistant, Andrea Albertyn. ‘They were always having fun and joking around.’

Who: Jake Gyllenhaal and Reese Witherspoon
Why: ‘He’s gorgeous, she’s gorgeous and they would make gorgeous babies together,’ says senior editor, Paula McAravey. ‘They also just seem so down to earth and, well, nice! Okay, so I know she’s seeing someone else now and there are rumours that she’s about to get engaged, but still...’

Who: Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston
Why: ‘They were just the “dream” couple – the absolutely gorgeous man and the girl next door,’ says promotions manager, Romy Heldsinger. ‘It was like a true love story!’

Who: Bruce Willis and Demi Moore
Why: ‘They were the ideal Hollywood role model couple,’ says promotions coordinator, Abeda Adler. ‘While everyone else was breaking up, they managed to keep it together for 13 years.’

Who: Johnny Deep and Juliette Lewis
Why: ‘Johnny Depp + Juliette Lewis = 100% hot babies,’ says intern, Tennille Coverly-Pons.

Who: Reese Witherspoon and Ryan Phillippe
Why: ‘I want them to get back together purely for superficial reasons,’ says chief copy editor, Christine Curtis. ‘They just looked so damn good together.’

Who: Usher and Chilli
Why: ‘Usher is grown up now and Chilli said they were very happy together…until he cheated,’ says junior features writer, Zama Nkosi. ‘They’re both still looking for love so, why not?’

Who: Sandra Bullock and Jesse James
Why: ‘My first instinct is to say Sandra Bullock and Jesse James, but I’m not sure why, considering what he did to her,’ says art director, Imogen Pretorius. ‘Perhaps because it seemed like a bit of a Notting Hill-type story: movie star meets her regular guy. But Prince Charming turned into a bit of a toad. She seems like someone who deserves a really nice guy. If only old Jesse hadn’t turned into a toad.’

Who: Madonna and Guy Ritchie
Why: ‘He was quite happy to stay back and be confident in his position as Mr Madonna,’ says features writer, Linda Mali.

Who: Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston (again!)
Why: 'I just really want to see what their babies would look like!' says junior beauty editor, Deevya Vasson.

Miss Con-Jeannie-Ality

Wed, 15 Sep 2010 12:00 +0200

She travels around the world, bungee-jumps, paraglides and skydives. She’s outspoken, bubbly and energetic. Jeannie D is the epitome of a COSMO girl.

Best known for her role as Top Billing’s vivacious presenter, Jeannie D is certainly living the high life. But, she’s much more than just a TV personality. In the October 2010 issue of COSMOPOLITAN, she opens up about rude celebrities, violence against women and how she is set on making it to the top. Oh, and don’t worry, we didn’t forget to ask about that little kiss with her hot co-presenter, Janez Vermeiren. And in case you’re wondering, the gorgeous dress Jeannie is featured in on the left was specially created for her shoot by local designer Thula Sindi.

Haven’t downloaded our first-ever 3D cover yet? Get it here.You can listen to our feature writer, Linda Mali’s, interview with Jeannie D too below...

Jeannie (3)D

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:00 +0200

Be the first to view our October 2010 3D cover!

You can download the regular version, or if you already have 3D glasses, download the 3D version.

The October 2010 issue of COSMOPOLITAN goes on sale 15 September 2010.


Regular version	3D version

Recovery - Eminem

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:00 +0200

Eminem has been dominating the hip hop scene since 1999 and there’s no sign of him stopping his reign anytime soon.

Recovery is filled with haunting, emotional lyrics dealing with everything from drug struggles and death to love and change. He’s dedicated the album to anyone trying to get out of a dark place – a place where this album clearly stems from.

Say whatever you like about this controversial star, but Eminem and executive producer Dr. Dre have produced one of the most powerful albums of the year. No wonder it debuted at number one on the US Billboard 200 Chart.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Not Afraid’, ‘No Love’, ‘Going Through Changes’

Aphrodite - Kylie Minogue

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:00 +0200

Kylie Minogue has been a pop queen for over two decades, so it’s only fitting that after three album-less years, Aphrodite seems to be reliving her former 80s glory. With a heavy reliance on synth and other electro influences, this release is bound to impress her older fans.

Aphrodite is catchy and perfectly produced – it didn’t debut at number one on the UK Album Charts for nothing. However, the album seems a bit forced. It seems, this time, the Australian songstress has just missed the mark. Electro is an international trend at the moment, so if you’re going to use synth in every song, make sure you do it right.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Get Outta My Way’, ‘Looking For an Angel’

5FM Presents [Live] 5 - Various Artists

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:00 +0200

Two discs filled with live recordings from the best South African artists: clearly local music is finally getting the recognition it deserves. With almost 40 tracks to choose from, there really is something for everyone on this compilation.

Prime Circle, Zebra & Giraffe, The Parlotones, Seether, Taxi Violence and Springbok Nude Girls will get the rockers head-banging, JR, Locnville, HHP, Gang of Instrumentals and Jozi bring the beats, Goldfish and Flash Republic will get you dancing, and Stained, Joss Stone, OK Go and The Ataris bring some international flavour.

We simply love this raw, production-free compilation. Give it a listen. Seriously.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Sun In My Pocket’, ‘Show Dem’, ‘Fine Again’

Euphoria - Enrique Iglesias

Thu, 19 Aug 2010 12:00 +0200

When there’s a chance people might think you’re old news (after nine albums, this is entirely possible), collaborating with current chart-topping artists like Nicole Scherzinger, Akon and Usher seems like the best way to increase your album sales. This is exactly what Enrique Iglesias has done, and he’s done it well.

Not only has he joined ranks with contemporary artists, he’s come together with lesser-known Spanish artists as well, as Euphoria is his first attempt at a bilingual album. If you’re keen for catchy dance tracks as well as a little Latin flair, you’re in for a treat. But if you think this star has passed his sell-by date, steer well clear.

BEST TRACKS: ‘I Like It’, ‘Heartbeat’

California Supergurl

Wed, 18 Aug 2010 12:00 +0200

We love the September 2010 issue for many reasons, but one thing that really stands out this month is our fun, oh-so-fearless cover girl, Katy Perry. In our interview on page 102, the singer not only talks about her long (and arduous) musical journey to stardom, but opens up about speculations surrounding her family’s religious beliefs. Best of all, you’ll get all the inside information about her fiancé Russell Brand and fashion tips too.

Watch a behind-the-scenes look at Katy Perry’s cover shoot in the USA, as well as a snippet about what makes her daring style so unique.

Hairy Sexy

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 12:00 +0200

As seen on page 17 of the August 2010 issue of COSMOPOLITAN, it appears our team definitely choose hairy over squeaky-clean. We’d love to know if you agree with our votes. Chace Crawford, Robert Pattinson, Ne-Yo and Gerard Butler: there’s no doubt all four of these celebrities are sexy. But, it’s your vote that counts and it’s time to pick your favourite. So what will it be girls, clean-shaven or stubbly?

Candid Candice

Tue, 20 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200

Candice Boucher has certainly come a long way from Durban suburbia. The self-confessed tomboy has modelled for renowned designers around the world including local favourite, Gavin Rajah, has graced countless magazine covers and is the current face of Guess. She’s even set to conquer Bollywood, playing the female lead in a new Prashant Chadha film.

On page 98 of our August 2010 issue, the 26-year-old beauty speaks openly to COSMOPOLITAN about dating difficulties, her life in The Big Apple and, of course, that Playboy shoot…

Download images from the shoot. (click on each image)

To download the August cover, simply click on it.

And then watch behind-the-scenes footage from the shoot...

JR's Bucket List

Mon, 12 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200

Since the success of his hit track ‘Show Dem’, JR has certainly made his fan circle ‘beega’.

He’s topped the charts, collaborated with South African stars like HHP and Jack Parow, and been nominated for a SAMA. JR is doing well. But there are certain things he’d like to do over and above the success he’s already achieved.

Here, we discover 15 things JR wants to accomplish before he spots any grey hairs…

    1. Have Jay Z as an opening act at my concert.

    2. Sky dive.

    3. Own a private jet.

    4. Host my own radio show.

    5. Record a music catalogue for the next 20 years.

    6. Make the cover of at least five international magazines.

    7. Have lunch with Barack Obama.

    8. Star in a porn movie.

    9. Win a Grammy.

    10. Host my own TV show.

    11. Run the Comrades.

    12. Take my family around the world.

    13. Sing backing vocals.

    14. Release a cover album.

    15. Play a concert at the Roman Colosseum.

Streets Of Gold 3OH!3

Mon, 05 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200

With artists like Metro Station, Asher Roth and 3OH!3, the electro/hip-hop genre is becoming more and more difficult to distinguish. This isn’t to say the American duo’s new album isn’t catchy.

Once again, 3OH!3 has managed to create electro party beats that will get even the most uncoordinated person up and dancing. While the first single, ‘My First Kiss’, featuring the increasingly annoying Ke$ha, is bound to be super successful, be warned, this 14-track album becomes repetitive very quickly.

Despite this, 3OH!3 is undoubtedly right on trend with the amalgamation of indie and hip-hop, and if you’re still at university and love a great party, adding Streets Of Gold to your collection will definitely pump up the volume.

BEST TRACKS: ‘I Can Do Anything’, ‘House Party’, ‘Love 2012’

The Twilight Saga: Eclipse

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200

As a self-confessed Twi-hard, it’s sometimes difficult to admit the saga’s faults. You don’t want to confess that Twilight’s special effects were laughable, neither do you want to say New Moon failed at storytelling. However, when it comes to the latest instalment of the vampire/werewolf phenomenon, you won’t need to confront the sceptics. Director David Slade has not only managed to combine both principles and correct his predecessors’ pasts, he’s done it well.

Eclipse sees the pact between the werewolves and the vampires strengthen and the relationship between Edward and Jacob improve. Throughout the movie, you’ll get to know the characters and their pasts. There are no more deep and profound silences where you sit and wonder what the characters are thinking. The movie is a tell-all (and see-all) version of the previous two releases. Bella’s steamy, sexy scenes with both Edward and Jacob – yes – combined with nail-biting battle scenes, a great score, and even better storytelling makes Eclipse a must-see.

The movie follows Edward and Bella as they rekindle their love for each other post-New Moon. While they discuss the prospect of marriage and Bella’s looming transformation into a vampire, Jacob vies for Bella’s affection. Convinced they are meant to be together, he will stop at nothing (including steamy kisses and punches to the face) to get her to admit how she feels about him. Naturally, this doesn’t please Edward and the love/hate relationship between the two is exposed.

While this passionate love triangle goes on in Forks, a bunch of evil, bloodthirsty new-born vampires are roaming the streets of Seattle under the instruction of Bella’s sworn enemy, Victoria. Thanks to Alice’s visions, the Cullens learn that the new-borns are on their way to the small town – and they want a fight. The family knows they won’t be able to defeat this super-strong army single-handed, and an alliance between vampires and werewolves is born. By this stage, Bella has accepted Edward’s proposal (and a rather large diamond-encrusted ring). Jacob is not happy about this new information – and after a long, passionate kiss – goes into battle. Even though it’s clear Bella was taken aback by Jacob’s smooching abilities, she tells Edward he is The One – and she means it. When the new-borns arrive in the clearing, they have no chance against both the Cullens and the pack and lose the fight. All-the-while Bella and Edward have been hiding in the woods (for her protection of course), but Victoria still manages to find them. After a bloody fight, Victoria and her henchman are killed.

Happily ever after? Not so much. But that’s for next time…

Immersion - Pendulum

Fri, 02 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200

If you like Prodigy, underground house or have loved drum&bass since it first entered the scene a decade ago, you should have bought Immersion, like, yesterday. After the successes of Pendulum’s first two releases in 2005 and 2008, fans were worried the latest album wouldn’t live up to expectations. You needn’t worry, it does.

While Hold Your Colour held on to pure drum&bass and In Silico moved on to electro-rock, Immersion combines both genres brilliantly. Pendulum has produced one hell of a party album. It’s time to press play.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Watercolour’, ‘The Vulture’, ‘Immunize’

B.o.B Presents The Adventures Of Bobby Ray - B.o.B

Thu, 01 Jul 2010 12:00 +0200

In an industry saturated with new artists, it takes a lot for an album to debut at number one on the US Billboard 200 charts. It’s no surprise though; it seems B.o.B is one of the only rappers out there at the moment that has managed to avoid over-using auto-tune and come up with some old school, original and seriously catchy hip-hop beats.

Collaborations with Eminem, Paramore’s Hayley Williams, Lupe Fiasco and T.I. (who also co-produced the release) add bonus beats to an already awesome stand-alone debut.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Ghost In The Machine’, ‘Nothin’ On You’, ‘Airplanes’

Make Mine a Double

Thu, 24 Jun 2010 12:00 +0200

While some local acts are still trying to make a name for themselves after years on the scene, Locnville seem to have lapped the rest of South Africa’s musos in the race. Twice. The New York-born twins and descendants of the legendary Charlie Chapman don’t only manage to sell out almost every show they play, they’ve sold over 20 000 albums and have just signed a record deal with Sony Music International. Not too shabby for two 20-year-old boys from Cape Town suburbia.

In the July issue of COSMO, Cathy Lund chats to the guys about girls, growing up and good looks. Listen to the full audio interview here.

Kelly Rowland's COSMO Cover

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00 +0200

If you’ve been following our tweets you’ll have heard about singer and beauty Kelly Rowland’s visit to South Africa to shoot her very first African COSMO cover. The July issue with Kelly as our cover girl will officially hit newsstands on Wednesday 23 June, but we’re giving you a first-look with an option to download the cover – for free!

   (To download, click on the cover)

Take a look at our behind-the-scenes gallery of the fashion shoot. And if you want to download the images from the fashion shoot, click on the thumbnails below.





All photographs were shot by Dewald Daniels.

Listen to the audio version of our interview with Kelly (also on page 64 of the July issue of COSMOPOLITAN)

Celebrate Youth Day

Wed, 16 Jun 2010 12:00 +0200

June 16 is a day that needs to be remembered and commemorated amongst all South Africans. We’ve found a few cool websites you can check out (as well as things you can do)...

LEARN
When it comes to Youth Day, nothing is more important than learning and education. If you need to brush up on your history skills and your knowledge of the Soweto Uprising, visit South African History Online. Alternatively, for those of you in Johannesburg, take a trip to Soweto and visit the Hector Peterson Museum, which is just two blocks from where the 12-year-old was killed in 1976.

READ
From A People on the Boil: Reflections on June 16, 1976 and Beyond (Jacana Media) by Harry Mashabela to Elsabe Brink and Gandhi Malungane’s Soweto 16 June 1976: Personal Accounts of the Uprising (Kwela Books), there are loads of books you can buy online to learn about the uprising. Visit Kalahari.net for a list of options.

WATCH
For a first-hand account of what really happened on the day we’re commemorating, watch this clip as Antoinette Sithole, Hector Peterson’s sister, and the curator of the Hector Peterson Museum, talks about June 16 1976.

And we had to include Wimpy’s creative, Youth Day-inspired TV advertisement from last year too.

DONATE
Visit these sites if you would like to donate money to organisations helping our youth, like the Youth Development Network or Biblionef South Africa: For The Love Of Reading.

THREE DECADES LATER
The National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) is a government organisation that focuses on helping the country’s youth through education, multi-skilling and economic participation. Here, gain insight into what the government is doing to help the country’s youth 34 years later.

CELEBRATE!
On a lighter note, there will be loads of celebrations taking place today. Visit www.fifa.com to find out more about Loyiso’s Youth Day concert at the FIFA Fan Fest in Cape Town. Popular Pretoria-based band, Isochronous will be playing in their old school uniforms at The Bracos in Atteridgeville and Umbilo Congella Sports Club will host Go! Go! Bronco, DJ Rob the Banka and many more artists to celebrate June 16 in Durban.

Playing With The Plastics

Mon, 31 May 2010 12:00 +0200

Hit after hit, The Plastics have managed to keep themselves afloat in a local music industry that is both saturated with wannabe indie rockers and hard on those who don't meet South Africa's new, musical standards.

Well, after we heard that the famed, Gordon Raphael (the brains behind multi-award winning US band, The Strokes) had agreed to produce The Plastics' debut album, Shark, we had to know more. Luckily for us, we've managed to get our hands on the first single, 'Caves'… exclusively.

Here, we chat with drummer Sasha Righini and bassist Karl Rohloff about working with Raphael, how they feel about cheating and where they will be during the FIFA World Cup.

Listen to 'Caves' here...

The Ink Queen

Fri, 21 May 2010 12:00 +0200

When you want to get a tattoo done, you go to Manuela Gray. She's arguably the most popular tattoo artist in South Africa. This is no secret.

You can read assistant editor Cathy Lund's Chat Room interview with Manuela Gray on page 72 in the June 2010 issue of COSMOPOLITAN. Find out who she's inked, her thoughts on the tattoo industry and how she thinks reality shows like Miami Ink have altered people's perceptions of her trade.

Or listen to the full audio interview here...

Cover Girl - Candice Swanepoel

Wed, 19 May 2010 12:00 +0200

Twenty-one-year-old South African beauty, Candice Swanepoel, has certainly reached supermodel status. Not only has she hit the catwalk for names like Dolce & Gabbana and Tommy Hilfiger, graced the covers of Vogue and posed for Diesel and Guess campaigns, she was hand-picked to be one of the prestigious Victoria's Secret Angels. Like renowned supermodels Naomi Campbell and Heidi Klum, Victoria's Secret has not only opened doors for the Mooi River-born beauty, it's cemented her position as one of the world's top beauties of the moment.

Read all about how she was scouted at the age of 15, how she landed her first job and what's next for our fabulous cover girl on page 74 of the proudly South African June 2010 issue of COSMOPOLITAN.

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR PHOTO GALLERY

Raymond vs. Raymond - Usher

Tue, 18 May 2010 12:00 +0200

Having sold 329 000 copies in its first week of release and debuting at number one on the US Billboard 200 chart, Usher is certainly on the up once again with his sixth album.

Minus will.i.am's auto-tune influence (unlike will.i.am, Usher can actually sing), you can understand why. This album is not only produced to perfection, it's packed with chart-topping hits waiting to happen. Usher has managed to combine hip hop beats, dance rhythms and the soul of R&B to make an altogether innovative album.

BEST TRACKS: 'There Goes My Baby', 'Lil Freak', 'OMG'

The Rude Mechanical - Wrestlerish

Tue, 18 May 2010 12:00 +0200

Wrestlerish's 13-track debut album is strong. It's no wonder they're getting so much attention at the moment. While the majority of the album focuses on making softer, acoustic music, there are a few catchy, upbeat tracks thrown into the playlist every now and then.

Even if you can't pronounce the name, Wrestlerish's talent should not be ignored. Listen to this album.

BEST TRACKS: 'Bad News', 'Oliver Tambourine', 'Orphans'

Our Cyber Lives - Skwatta Kamp

Fri, 14 May 2010 12:00 +0200

Skwatta Kamp has been one of South Africa's favourite hip hop crews since they exploded onto the local scene in 2001. Since then, Shugasmakx and Slikour started underground record label and management agency, Buttabing Entertainment and have also both managed to launch successful solo careers.

Take a look into the online lives of these two artists and find out their thoughts on their best performances, what's playing on their iPods and who they would most like to perform with in the future.

LEBOGANG 'SHUGASMAKX' MOTHIBE

SIYA 'SLIKOUR' METANE

How often do you check your Facebook profile?
'Honestly, I hardly check my Facebook inbox because I've got like 7 000 messages, but I'm dedicated to sending out event updates and so forth. That happens about once a week.'
Send Lebogang a friend request

Which is your favourite Skwatta Kamp performance?
'My favourite performance would have to be in 2005 at the Rand Easter Show. I saw 30 000 people clap all at the same time, in tune, to 'The Clap Song.' That was too cool! They need to bring back The Metro FM and YFM concerts to the Rand Easter Show. Unfortunately, I don't have the YouTube link for that, but coming in at a close second would be the first time we played at The Cape Town Jazz Festival in 2008. I can't wait to do that again.'
Watch Shugasmakx's performance at the Jazz Festival

What's playing on your iPod?
'Kwesta's upcoming album Special Re-Kwest, Skwatta Kamp's Fair and Skwear, DJ Naves' The Levi's Mixtape and a couple of tracks from T'do's upcoming album. Oh, and a mix from Yanga in the office because he always got the new shit!'
Listen to tracks off Fair and Skwear

Who is your favourite female artist?
'I guess it must be Alicia Keys or Sade.'
Listen to Alicia Keys on MySpace

Who would you most like to perform with on stage?
'I like performing with JR. We have a good synergy, so that's cool.'
Seen the official music video for JR's 'Make The Circle Beega'?

What are your favourite websites?
'My favourite websites are www.ventilation.co.za, www.buttabing.co.za, www.cosmopolitan.co.za (shout out!), www.justcurious.co.za, www.mikastefano.co.za, www.nightlife.co.za, www.streetword.co.za, www.djsbuonline.co.za, www.hypemagazine.co.za, www.wonted.co.za... and all other young websites doing their thing. Viva!'

How often do you check your Facebook profile?
'I converted to Twitter, but it's linked to my Facebook profile. I'm there at least once a week updating things that are happening in my world.'
Visit Slikour's Facebook profile

Which is your favourite Skwatta Kamp performance?
'It has to be from our new music video, featuring Clu. The song is called 'Hey!' It's the first video we've shot using internal resources.'
Watch the video

What's playing on your iPod?
'B.o.B: Presents The Adventures Of Bobby Ray by B.o.B, Young Jeezy 'Trap or Die 2', Sade 'Soldier of Love' and Robin Thicke.'
Check out B.o.B's official website

Who is your favourite female artist?
'Sade.'
Watch Sade performing her new single, 'Soldier of Love'

Who would you most like to perform with on stage?
'Busta Rhymes.'
Visit Busta Rhymes' Facebook fan page

What are your favourite websites?
'www.ventilation.co.za, but it's currently been upgraded, so for now I'm liking www.rapradar.com.'

Leigh-Ann Mol's Online Life

Thu, 06 May 2010 12:00 +0200

She's not just the morning news reader; the witty Leigh-Ann Mol also manages 5FM's website. She let us browse her online world...

5.45am
Greet the very annoying and highly-strung Damon Kalvari and the rest of the team (Mabale Moloi, Sias du Plessis and that Gareth guy) and grab my bulletin off the printer, fresh from the SABC newsroom.

For news bulletins, the SABC newsroom sources stories from SABC reporters around the country, AFP, SAPA, Reuters and the BBC. This is all available on an internal news system. I also check Forvo.com, as it is a great site for checking out the pronunciations of words and names before a bulletin. To get the latest news, I visit sites like IOL. Google News, Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. In the past, I used various entertainment sites as a source, but now Twitter has replaced that function. I simply follow entertainment news and general news websites' updates and links there. After all, where better to get the latest and most accurate news from music artists than from their own tweets! I follow about 750 twits – including industry buffs, bloggers, celebrities and news sites. I then set up my 'office' for the morning (laptop, Blackberry and my winning personality), and bitch about the fact that it's so early.

6am – 9am
Read three bulletins, laugh hysterically at the team's on- and off-air antics, shout incessantly at the very annoying and highly-strung Damon Kalvari, play FarmVille on Facebook, tweet, go through some of the e-mails in the bottomless pit that is my Inbox, eat either yoghurt and fruit (if I planned properly the day before) or a ghastly toasted sandwich from the coffee shop, and bitch about the fact that it's so early.

9am – 1pm
Some days I have a few meetings to attend: a team meeting with 5FM Management, a meeting with the offices to catch up on all the latest events and competitions so I can update the website. Most of this content (on-air and online competitions, information about upcoming 5FM concerts and events, gigs to get to, DJ profile pictures, show content and polls, all the music featured on our playlist and the option to vote for your favourite, hot news on music artists and the latest tech news, music videos, blogs by listeners, charity initiatives, 5FM internship details and more) is generated internally – and by our DJs.

Sometimes I also do voice-overs for anything from commercials to audio study guides; otherwise I just go for an after-work breakfast with the team. These are particularly exciting, because we get to marvel at how the very annoying and highly-strung Damon Kalvari manages to spill his entire cappuccino into his saucer. They are also exciting because Mabale and I have after-work drinks in the form of a sherry or the like at 10am. Often I'll use this time to squeeze in a little pampering, like a facial, mani and pedi and a massage… or to get my hair did.

1pm – 4pm
Managing the website takes precedence here. I generally do this from home, sitting on the patio with my tiny zoo of animals and 5FM on in the background. This is my most peaceful time of the day. Although the workload can be heavy with deadlines, I try to ensure that I'm surrounded by calm.

4pm – 8pm
Here's where my day could go one way or the other. This time may involve a walk to the park with my very small, tiny and little Miniature Pinscher, Joey, more tweaking on the 5FM website, drinks or dinner with friends or family, photo shoots, charity events, a mini-shop, TV (I have PVR, so I don't waste time watching commercials and mindless drivel), a bath with a scented candle, feeding all of the members of my small zoo, reading (mostly non-fiction) and admin around the house. I run a household by myself, so there's always something to do. And just for fun, I check out www.pettube.com for hilarious and fascinating animal videos and www.garethcliff.com for entertaining and opinionated blogs.

8pm – 4.45am
A blissful sleep with the furmily.

Fresh Music

Fri, 30 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200

South Africa's favourite afro-pop band, Freshlyground, have just released their fourth studio album Radio Africa. Produced by Fabrice Dupont (who has worked with Santogold, Mark Ronson and Jennifer Lopez), the album was recorded in the band's studio in Cape Town and then mixed at Flux Studios in New York City.

Fans can expect the southern African pop sounds and that have made Freshlyground so popular, as the new album is comprised of songs about society – powerful, reflective, yet uplifting and joyous. Be the first to listen to the first 30 seconds of each new single...

You can buy the Radio Africa on the band's website, or enter our competition and you could win one of five copies of the new album.

Two Artists, One Stone

Wed, 28 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200

Francois Van Coke is iconic to say the least. Even if he doesn't seem to think so himself. The lead singer behind legendary Afrikaans rock bands, Fokofpolisiekar and Van Coke Kartel is better known for his Bellville Rock City upbringing and his raucous onstage performances than giving advice to COSMO girls. Here, not only does he chat about VCK's new album, Skop, Skiet en Donner, he also lets us see his romantic side.

While Lindiwe Suttle might have been brought up in the US (far from the streets of Bellville Rock City), she's not all that different to Francois. Daughter to South Africa's Oprah, Felicia Mabuza-Suttle, Lindiwe prides herself on her alternative rock persona and musical taste, hailing local alt-electro band, Gazelle, as one of her favourite artists. The beautiful songstress chats to us about her eclectic style, why Grace Jones is her fashion icon and the most important lessons her mother taught her.

My Cyber Life - Zolani Mahola

Tue, 20 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200

Former actress and now lead singer of afro-pop band Freshlyground, Zolani Mahola, lets us into her cyber life.

You may remember Zolani as Boniswa in the SABC series Tsha Tsha, but the 28-year-old grew up in the small Eastern Cape town of Brighton. In the 90s she made the successful trek to Cape Town to study performance at the University of Cape Town and ended up heading the six-member, MTV Europe and SAMA-winning band. Zolani's come a long way as the band's lyricist, lead singer, and one of the most lovable front-stage personalities in South Africa.

Freshlyground will be releasing their new album Radio Africa on 3 May 2010, an 11-track mix of songs about love, humanity and everything in between. Click on the thumbnails below for a look into Zolani's cyber life...

Your Ayoba Weekend

Thu, 15 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200

This year you can watch the 16th Annual South African Music Awards live on Saturday 17 April at 8pm on SABC 1. Also, get your virtual VIP pass with the first-ever live backstage webcast – watch interviews with your favourite stars while they prepare for the awards to start. Log on or visit the SAMA Facebook page for more information.
And while it might spark some jealously, we can't deny that this year's goodie bags are quite something. All guests and presenters will receive a Nokia X6 touch-screen handset, a Heineken clothing hamper, a pair of Levi's, a pair of new Ray Ban Wayfarers, a exclusive one-year Gold Membership to Taboo Nightclub in Sandton, two EA games, a pair of 2010 Havaianas, Converse sneakers and a Nikon Camera Coolpix S610. (Who's footing that bill?!)

But never mind that; here's our list why a COSMO girl should watch the 16th Annual South African Music Awards...

1. Trevor Noah is hosting the awards. And let's face it, not only is he hilarious, he's super fine.

2. Speaking of super fine, there will definitely be hotties on the Yello Carpet. Think Jozi and aKing.

3. The fashion. All the top designers have kitted our celebrities out in their latest lines.

4. The after-party. If you're in the area, don't miss out on your chance to dance the night away with the stars in Sun City after the ceremony.

5. You'll get to see some of the country's best performers live on stage.

6. For the first time, an International Achievement Award will be handed to a local artist who's made the biggest impact overseas. Finally, global recognition!

7. The live webcast will be hosted by the super cool VJs and continuity presenters Sizwe, Bonang and Siya, so you'll definitely be entertained.

8. You have a say! You can vote for the MTN Record of the Year (click on the Record of the Year link below the Nominees section to find out how), one of the most prestigious awards of the night.

9. Just by watching the awards, you're supporting South African music – something every COSMO girl should take seriously.

10. The drama. Just like Khanyi Mbau's Lamborghini entrance last year, there's bound to be something juicy happening this time around.

11. You can brush up on your local music history with the Lifetime Achiever's Award. Will the late Lucky Dube, Ge Korsten or Brenda Fassie be handed this honour in 2010?

12. Whether you like rock bands, sokkie treffers, kwaito or jazz, there's an award for every genre.

13. Lastly, it's Ayoba. Need we say more?

Cover Girl - Lady Gaga

Wed, 14 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200

When we thought about our next fun, fearless cover girl, Lady Gaga was definitely one of the first who came to mind.

The 24-year-old spotlight-loving star has so far only released two albums, with her debut The Fame selling more than 10 million copies worldwide. She may still be on her super successful world tour, The Monster Ball, but we know she's working on a new full-length album simultaneously. Now that she's told MTV UK that her next release will be her best work to date, we can hardly wait to get our hands on it.

She may be controversial, hardcore and a little over-the-top, but this fabulous songstress is our May 2010 cover girl for a reason. And thanks to our COSMO sisters in the United States, we've got the pictures to prove it. Shot by Kenneth Willardt, Lady Gaga keeps it cool in blacks, nudes and greens in the hottest labels.

Leather & Lace - No Jokes

Fri, 09 Apr 2010 12:00 +0200

A few of South Africa's funniest comedians tell us what lingerie they like to see on (and take off) a woman…

When we asked local comedians to spill their secrets about what lingerie they like to see on their women, we knew we'd be in for a laugh. From fig leaves and black lingerie to frilly panties and rubber, here's what our funny guys like to see when the lights dim low.

My Cyber Life - Kyla-Rose Smith

Tue, 30 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

Home-grown band Freshlyground will be releasing their fourth studio album in May and we got elfin band member, Kyla-Rose Smith, to share her favourite links with us.

How often do you check your Facebook profile?
'I check it maybe once a week; it's a good way to eavesdrop on my friends' lives especially as I'm not around that often to be part of the fun.'
Send Kyla a friend request

Which is your favourite performance?
'There are not that many YouTube videos of FG live gigs, although I love the video a fan posted of her daughter singing along to Doo Be Doo in the car.'
Watch the official music video

What's playing on your iPod?
'I always have my iPod on shuffle and there are 11 000 songs on there...'
Download Freshlyground on iTunes

Who is your favourite designer?
'I really like Stefania Morland's label, although I generally mix and match whatever catches my eye.'
Become a fan of Stefania Morland too

What book(s) are you reading now?
'I'm reading Rian Malan's latest Resident Alien.'
Order Resident Alien online

What is your favourite website?
'Google, although it's not a site as such. It's amazing how they have the monopoly on information through the Internet. I Google everything – all my questions answered at the click of a button.'
http://www.google.com

Follow Freshlyground on Twitter and listen to them on MySpace or add them to your last.fm library.

Cover Girl - Nicole Scherzinger

Wed, 17 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

After releasing two chart-topping albums with the Pussycat Dolls, Nicole Scherzinger is finally taking time to nurture her solo career.

While she may be a private person, on pg.112 of COSMOPOLITAN's April issue, the Hawaiian-born songstress speaks out about her hectic schedule, her sensitive nature, the difficulties behind the scenes of the Pussycat Dolls and what Lewis Hamilton means to her.

Visit our video page for clips that illustrate why Nicole is a true COSMO cover girl.

3 Words - Cheryl Cole

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

After her very public breakup with serial cheater, Ashley Cole, Cheryl Cole is definitely trying to reinvent herself as something more than a WAG. Her new album, 3 Words, might have a few catchy beats, but it doesn't feel like her album. Will.I.Am is firmly holding the reigns – she's more of a guest artist than anything else.

Think about it like a modern day version of the Spice Girls after they parted ways. While Girls Aloud made it work, Cheryl Cole alone sounds almost as watered down as Victoria Beckham did when she sang solo.

BEST TRACKS: '3 Words'

Jason Derulo - Jason Derulo

Tue, 16 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

It doesn't seem possible to count the number of times 'Whatcha Say' has been played on the radio. While Imogen Heap's version is unquestionably better, there's no doubt it's one helluva catchy track.

As for the rest of the album, if you like Akon, Usher, Chris Brown (eek) or Ne-Yo, you've got fresh meat to feast on. This album is an R&B fan's end-of-the-week treat for sure. And if you happened to buy the latest Backstreet Boys album, you'll probably enjoy Jason Derülo's self-titled, poppy debut too.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Whatcha Say'

All She Ever Wanted

Mon, 15 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

She entertained crowds in Johannesburg and Durban this past weekend, and is in her way to a sold out show in Cape Town. Last week we sent features writer Zama Nkosi to the press conference at The Westcliff in Johannesburg.

Watch our slideshow of her report...

[All reporting and pictures by Zama Nkosi]

Waking Up - One Republic

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

After the huge success of their debut single, ‘Apologize’ in 2007, which sold nearly five million digital copies and peaked at number one in 12 countries, One Republic had a lot to live up to while recording their second album.

It certainly appears as though they’ve pulled it off. Waking Up is as jam-packed with melodious chart-toppers as the band’s previous album Dreaming Out Loud. The first single, ‘All The Right Moves’ is right down the One Republic pop-rock alley, and in combination with the second single, ‘Secrets’, should get the album a fair amount of attention. If you’re a One Republic fan, you’re bound to be impressed with the band’s latest offering. However, if you’re not a big fan of front man, Ryan Tedder, avoid Waking Up at all costs – because, from vocals to piano to programming to production – it’s all him.

BEST TRACKS: ‘All The Right Moves’, ‘Made For You’, ‘Secrets’

City Bowl Mizers - The City Bowl Mizers

Tue, 02 Mar 2010 12:00 +0200

The City Bowl Mizers' latest album is being eaten up by everyone from Cape Town indie clicks to Durban surfers.

This 19-track album is all about fun (and impressive production) and is bound to capture your attention. Packed with energy, catchy lyrics and head-banging beats, City Bowl Mizers is a must-have road-trip/lazing-by-the-pool companion. It doesn’t matter if this band is on the stage right in front of you or on your latest play list; The City Bowl Mizers are true party-starters regardless.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Uh Huh’, ‘Mace In Your Face,’ ‘Cancun’

Falling Short

Wed, 24 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

Whenever we mention the word 'local celebrities' in general conversation, a snigger always seems to follow. Why? Because most South Africans don't seem to view local celebrities as 'the real deal'.

International celebrities are rich, donate money to important causes, adopt children from all over the world, are spokespersons for famous brands, wear expensive designer clothes and have the paparazzi industry devoted to their day to day antics, explains celebrity studies expert and lecturer at the University of Cape Town, Oscar Masinyana. 'On the other hand, most South African celebrities don't have that much money; they are struggling like the rest of us.' Often, says Masinyana, their limelight fades quickly and that's not attractive.

When they do become spokespersons for local brands, says Masinyana, it's usually brands most people don't want to be associated with, or at least brands people don't associate with luxurious or highly-sophisticated living. And most of the time he adds, they are wearing exactly the same clothes we are wearing. 'It leaves little for the ordinary person to aspire to.'

Reality TV star, DJ and hip-hop artist Proverb certainly doesn't think of himself as famous. 'For one to be considered a celebrity, you have to be celebrated worldwide. Appearing occasionally on local media hardly constitutes one to be called a celebrity.' While he says he's often considered to be famous, he prefers to think of himself as just a regular person who happens to be in entertainment, free from any superior status.

Socialite Khanyi Mbau, 23, thinks this is the problem, and doesn't believe South African stars promote their images correctly. 'If celebrities don't take themselves seriously, how can we expect the fans to respect us?' She says our local stars dress down on a day-to-day basis and only make themselves 'beautiful' when they know they're going to be on camera. 'We don't practice celebrity culture. You can't blame the onlooker for thinking local celebrities are a bit of a joke.'

Greg Carlin, lead singer of alternative rock favourites Zebra & Giraffe, agrees. 'Celebrity culture is very different down here. South Africans just aren't impressed by local stars.' If you recognise a famous local on the street, you probably wouldn't go up to them to ask for an autograph, much less a photograph, says Carlin. 'You're more likely to ignore them.'

Masinyana believes South African celebrities are too clean, conservative and uncontroversial. 'There isn't nearly enough dirt on them and they are intent on keeping squeaky clean images.'

For him, and for most gossip column readers, the famous are meant to be frolicking around with their equally famous counterparts and keeping the public guessing about who is now with who. 'We want heartache, breakdowns, drug problems, prison spells and fashion boo boos.' South African celebrity drama is just not juicy enough, and even if it were, there isn't much in the way of paparazzi in this country, he adds.

'There aren't any cool hangouts where only celebrities go or gossip magazines that compare to those in the US,' says Carlin. You're not going to find people clawing to get into a club if it's anyone less than Robert Pattinson inside.

International stars feature in our much-loved movies or sing our favourite songs; and for that, they're inherently cooler than our local VIPs. Sad, but true.

Cover Girl - Drew Barrymore

Wed, 17 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

She's gone from child star to teen drug addict, back to talented actress, then producer and most recently director, all in her 34 years.

In our cover star interview (pg.92 of the March issue of COSMOPOLITAN), Drew discusses why it's so difficult to find the love of your life these days, but still remains tight-lipped about her relationships with on-again off-again boyfriend Justin Long.

Although she's never really let the media into the "secret garden" of her personal life, she does share the most important lesson she's learned in her life that can be applied to relationships.

Drew is a COSMO Cover Girl for so many reasons, and we've found eight...

She's a humble, award-winning actress.	She's fearless.
She's a fantastic director.	She's an activist.
She's hilarious and adventurous.	She gives great relationship advice.
She doesn't hold back	And she can guess Ellen's Mystery Word – even if it takes her a little while...

Bite Me

Mon, 15 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

You may still be deciding whether you’re Team Edward or Team Jacob, but these new vampire brothers will definitely put an end to that saga.

Vampire Diaries, a new TV series which began airing on VUZU.tv 1 February, follows the love triangle between two vampire brothers – Stefan and Damon Salvatore – and Elena Gilbert, a high school student who’s just as damaged as them. But while the story revolves around high school students, the show is definitely not about high school as the Salvatore brothers’ 145-year-old feud now becomes a fight for Elena’s soul.

The official synopsis goes something like this:
It's Elena's first day back at Mystic Falls High School since the tragic death of her parents. Along with her Aunt Jenna, Elena tries her best to look after her troubled younger brother, Jeremy, and salvage what family they have left. The first day is already shaping up to be a struggle for Elena until she meets the mysterious new kid at school, Stefan. Elena is touched that he can relate to what she's going through. What Elena doesn't know is that Stefan is a vampire, constantly resisting the urge to taste her blood. As their undeniable connection grows deeper, Stefan's dangerous older brother, Damon, shows up to wreak havoc on the town of Mystic Falls – and claim Elena for himself.

Starring Paul Wesley as Stefan, Ian Somerhalder as Damon and Nina Dobrev as Elena, Vampire Diaries is based on the best-selling series of books by LJ Smith. But it’s not only the cast who make this production hot, the talented team of executive producers include Kevin Williamson (Scream, Dawson's Creek), Julie Plec (Kyle XY, Wasteland), Leslie Morgenstein (Gossip Girl, Private) and Bob Levy (Gossip Girl, Privileged). Williamson and Plec are also part of the show’s script-writing team.

Get to know the men behind the characters with this Q&A:
• Ian Somerhalder – Damon
• Paul Wesley – Stefan

Yes, these video clips are unashamedly promotional, but who cares! Damon and Stefan are our latest obsessions.

The Fame Monster - Lady Gaga

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

It seems Lady Gaga can do no wrong. From her extravagant live performances to her sexy beats, it looks as if she's won us over again with The Fame Monster.

The album is made up of two discs, one of which is The Fame (again), while the other features eight new tracks to sink your teeth into. While there is nothing new to say about her debut release, Lady Gaga's latest tracks will once again get her fans dancing. However, it must be said this album isn't only for Saturday nights in the club; it has a very strong message about dealing with fame, love, partying, sex and death. As with her first album, The Fame Monster proves why the 23-year-old superstar is next in line for Madonna's throne.

BEST TRACKS: 'Bad Romance', 'Telephone (Featuring Beyoncé)', 'Monster'

Animal - Ke$ha

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

It's easy to understand the Animal appeal. Catchy lyrics, a beat and Auto-Tune is clearly the standard for pop music nowadays. As long as you can dance to the song, it's all good, right?

Well, minus the hit single, 'TiK ToK' the rest of the album sounds exactly the same, so you'll be dancing to the same beat for more than 45 minutes. It's difficult to tell whether Ke$ha is looking to do a Britney version of Lady Sovereign or a watered down version of Katy Perry. Only on one occasion, in the song 'Hungover', can you actually hear Ke$ha's voice over the Auto-Tune. What a pity she didn't sing on the rest of the album. Her voice is pretty damn good.

It's hard to believe she worked on this album for seven years; it just isn't worth the time.

BEST TRACKS: 'Hungover', 'TikTok', 'Boots & Boys'

Up To Now - Snow Patrol

Tue, 16 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

Whether you first discovered Snow Patrol in 2003 with their Final Straw album or only ever heard of the band after the tearjerker season two finale of Grey's Anatomy, there'll be something for you on Up To Now.

Unlike Fall Out Boy, Snow Patrol has been around for more than 16 years and are therefore entitled to release a greatest hits collection. Featuring previously unreleased tracks, as well as songs from the pre-Final Straw age, Up To Now is a two-disk, two-times-platinum collection of the band's most popular hits, as well as their lesser-known ballads. In and amongst the 30-track play list, you're bound to love at least half of what's on offer, even if it's only the chart toppers.

BEST TRACKS: 'The Planets Bend Between Us', 'Run (Mencap Little Noise Sessions, Live At The Union Chapel)', 'Set The Fire To The Third Bar'

Johnny Foreigner

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

It’s pretty clear when we get a first glimpse of the band, that was a long night. After nearly missing their flight, losing their baggage and a massive party with the boys from Ashtray Electric the night before, it was no wonder the three rockers could barely keep their eyes open. Even if it was already after lunch.

In desperate need of a holiday, front man Alexei Berrow, bassist Kelly Southern and drummer Junior Washington, decided to come to South Africa. But while they’ve agreed to hit the tourist spots and laze on the beach in true vacay-style, they will also be performing four shows in Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Johannesburg and Pretoria.

If you haven’t heard of Johnny Foreigner before, here is the low-down. They’ve released three albums, two EPs (one of which is available for free download), and 10 singles. They’re influenced by anyone from Death Cab For Cutie to Arcade Fire to Lady Sovereign and Radiohead. Oh, and gin of course. You name the festival and they’ve played it: T-In The Park, Reading, Japan’s SummerSonic, Ibiza Rocks; and on 26 February, they will be playing at South Africa’s renowned RAMfest in Worcester.

They’re worth checking out, so if you’re in the area, head down to the following venues and catch them live. They will be performing at The Assembly in Cape Town on 13 February, with Kidofdoom, Yesterday’s Pupil, She Man Lion, Sassquatch, Bruce Willis and MoeJoe, and on 17 February at Klein Libertas Theatre in Stellenbosch with Ashtray Electric, The Pretty Blue Guns, The Revelators, The Lottery Tickets, Bruce Willis, Sassquatch and El Gordo.

For those of you in Gauteng, Johnny Foreigner will be performing in Pretoria at Hotbox Studio with Isochronous, Wrestlerish, Sticky Antlers, MoeJoe, Sassquatch, Nathan Scott Phillips and Kodiac, and in Johannesburg with Desmond & The Tutus, Yesterday’s Pupil, Us Kids Know, Eyes Like Mirrors, Sassquatch, Data Takashi, MoeJoe, Nathan Scott Phillips, Kodiac and That Girl.

Go to the Johnny Foreigner (UK) 'Choose yr side and shut up!' SA Tour Facebook group for more information about their South African tour. Oh, and don’t forget to check them out on MySpace.

A Killer Night

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:00 +0200

If you’re deeply entrenched in the underground international techno scene, you’ll know who Emerson Todd is. If not, well, you won’t. But you should. Working mostly behind the scenes over the last few years (scoring films such as Stickmen and making warped underground tech as a producer and sound engineer), Emerson is once again stepping up to the decks and DJing around the world. The New Zealander who was raised in Australia and is now living in Britain sat down with COSMO before his set at Fiction in Cape Town.

And it turns out interviewing an international DJ over drinks in the club manager’s office above the dance floor while a few of your friends hover around isn’t always such a bad idea. Listen to the interview in which Emerson tells us why he’s never really owned his own set of turntables and why he would DJ a wedding...

Emerson Todd will be playing at Chevelle in Cape Town on February 12 and at The Woods on February 13. Listen to Emerson on MySpace, befriend him on Facebook or follow him on Twitter.

KILLER ROBOT
But let’s not forget about the concept that brought Emerson into our clubs this month, Killer Robot, recognised as South Africa's premiere showcase of underground minimal and techno. Bruno Morphet makes up one-third of the Killer Robot residents at Fiction, and he spoke to us about quality underground electronic music and illegal downloads...

Check out Killer Robot on MySpace.

The Best Waste of Time

Mon, 25 Jan 2010 12:00 +0200

With wall posts replacing e-mails and tweets replacing status updates, you need to know who’s who on Twitter, from local celebrities to international superstars.

1. 2OceansVibe http://twitter.com/2oceansvibe
Why: Seth Rothertham is the Perez Hilton of South Africa – minus the fact he doesn’t just comment on the latest celebrity scandals. Follow this jester for a funny take on the serious things in life.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Surprise Surprise!! The ringtone industry is collapsing…’

2. Gareth Cliff http://twitter.com/GarethCliff
Why: He’s one of our favourite and funniest local DJs and he’s not scared to say what he thinks.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Did anyone know that @damonkalvari sat through Avatar without the 3D glasses, complaining about how it was out of focus? FFS...’

3. John Mayer http://twitter.com/johncmayer
Why: For a super entertaining and completely arbitrary take on his life. Plus, he is arguably the coolest tweet-musician out there.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Just read my Rolling Stone cover article. I’m still not sure if I would want to hang out with me.’

4. Snoop Dogg http://twitter.com/SNooPdOGG
Why: For a sneak-peak into his latest tracks and the chance to win great Snoop ‘prizzles’.
Sweet Tweet: (in typical Snoop-style) ‘what’s good my twizzles?!?!’

5. Kurt Darren http://twitter.com/Kurtofficial
Why: If you’re not a fan, you must at least be slightly curious to read about the inner workings of this Afrikaans musical phenomenon.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Die beste medisyne is n great song...............he he!’ (In case you didn’t know, ‘Die Beste Medisyne’ is also the name of KD’s new album…)

6. Pete Wentz http://twitter.com/petewentz
Why: Fall Out Boy’s bassist makes for interesting reading. And, well, he’s, hot.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Sometimes when people ask me “do you have any other questions?” i feel way more stupid for not having any.’

7. Katy Perry http://twitter.com/katyperry
Why: This seemingly innocent I-Kissed-a-Girl pop star has the most outrageously rude, should-be-censored, updates.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Jazzed bout Coachella. Don’t think I’ve been this excited since Dawson & Joey made out circa 1999 & that was like, whoa.’ (Please note: this is one of the few tame tweets.)

8. Perez Hilton http://twitter.com/PerezHilton
Why: Because we all love celebrity gossip, and Perez is the boss in the superstar scandal department.
Sweet Tweet: ‘After the crazy drama I went through today – and it was CRAZY! – it’s time to go out with new friends and burn this hump day to the ground!’

9. Lindsay Lohan http://twitter.com/lindsaylohan
Why: Because we’re all morbidly curious about loco-Lindsay and her latest scandal.
Sweet Tweet: ‘I never twittered anything about rihanna, I actually just had to email someone to reset my password. Waste of paper to all you tabloids :)’

10. Ben Stiller http://twitter.com/RedHourBen
Why: The Zoolander funny-man will have you in stitches, whether you’re reading about his headband-drive or his daily activities.
Sweet Tweet: ‘No real way to look cool bobbing for apples at all. Even when you win, you lose.’

11. Karl Lagerfeld http://twitter.com/KARL_LAGERFELD
Why: Because he’s one of the hottest designers in the world and his tweets are profound. Expect to see them in a motivational diary some day in the near future.
Sweet Tweet: ‘I am a fashion person, and fashion is not only about clothes – it’s about all kinds of change.’

12. Rainn Wilson http://twitter.com/rainnwilson
Why: He will have you laughing your Monday blues away. Just watch The Office and you’ll understand why.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Hey @BillGates – if U wish me a happy birthday I will drop my lawsuit seeking to prove that you’re my dad.’

13. Jeremy Piven http://twitter.com/jeremypIven
Why: He’s one of the funniest comedians in the US at the moment. And if you love the guys from Entourage, you’ll love his Ari-like tweets.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Ever look around your gym and realize it’s a gay bar with weights?’
‘Just finished cleaning up the language for 6 seasons of Entourage, man I swear A LOT in this show.’

14. Taylor Swift http://twitter.com/taylorswift13
Why: For funny, day-to-day updates about the starlet’s life. You’ll soon find she’s more than just the girl next door.
Sweet Tweet: ‘The hardest part about motivating myself to run is finding matching socks.’

15. Russell Brand http://twitter.com/rustyrockets
Why: Because he’s shocking, crass and provides for entertaining reading. And, like Pete Wentz, he’s hot.
Sweet Tweet: ‘I just read that my tweets are the 3rd most influential in Britain. I will only use this power for good. Now send photos of your sex organs.’

16. Xzibit http://twitter.com/mrxtothaz
Why: The Pimp My Ride host and hip hop mogul is as hilarious on Twitter, if not more, than he is on his show.
Sweet Tweet: ‘All you want is for me to fix your fucking car. Lol.’
‘LOL! I appreciate all the birthday love, but sorry folks My birthday is on SEPTEMBER 18th!!!!! fact check people, fact check!!!’

17. Keri Hilson http://twitter.com/MissKeribaby
Why: She’s the hottest R&B star on our radar and a true COSMO girl at heart!
Sweet Tweet: ‘craving pinkberry...mmmm...must. resist.’

18. Lady Gaga http://twitter.com/ladygaga
Why: We love her music, but we love her tweets even more because they’re just as crazy as her outfits.
Sweet Tweet: ‘pretty genius, big huge man banging on the car window outside the arena, trying to sell me scalped tickets to my own show. yoouuu skalliwag.’

19. Kate White http://twitter.com/katemwhite
Why: The US COSMO editor-in-chief will keep you up-to-date with the latest in fashion, celebrity life and COSMO tips.
Sweet Tweet: ‘One Tree Hill star and fab Cosmo writer Rob Buckely just sent me a life-size cut out of Rob Pattinson. I jump every time I see it.’

20. Minki van der Westhuizen http://twitter.com/MinkiVisser
Why: Because she’s COSMO’s February cover star and a South African super model.
Sweet Tweet: ‘Hey Guys, Check out the new Cosmo cover. Hope you like it. Please go out and buy one, maybe 10 :)’ (We agree!)

21. COSMOPOLITAN http://twitter.com/CosmopolitanSA
Why: Because you know you want to find out about all our latest features, sex positions and fabulous competitions.
Sweet Tweet: 'Want to win a romantic Valentine's Weekend with @D7Live, Bilton Wine Estate, Boschendal and the Grand Daddy Hotel?'

In the comment block below, tell us who you follow on Twitter.

Believers Never Die: Greatest Hits - Fall Out Boy

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:00 +0200

Releasing a greatest hits album before one of your band members has found their first grey hair is a dodgy move. It tells fans (who already have all of your albums anyway) that there is no new material to record. It tells fans you had nothing better to do than release a don’t-forget-about-us compilation album.

Fall Out Boy’s Believers Never Die - Greatest Hits sums up the last six years of their pop punk career. While it does include their biggest and most popular songs, the album doesn’t exactly scream platinum status. It’s time to forget about the past and concentrate on creating something new. It’s time for Fall Out Boy to win over fans with something original.

BEST TRACKS: ‘This Ain’t A Scene, It’s An Arms Race,’ ‘Thnks Fr The Memories,’ ‘Sugar, We’re Goin Down’

Before I Self Destruct - 50 Cent

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:00 +0200

50 Cent has conquered commercial hip-hop over the years with some really great tracks, but his fourth album is tired and a little desperate.

Because 'Fiddy' is one of the most well known rappers to date, you would expect his final solo release to be groundbreaking… especially after he claimed it would be the best release of its time. Unfortunately for 50 Cent, it’s nowhere near as good as his previous albums. While he collaborates with Eminem and Ne-Yo and the rapping is tight and succinct, the beats and the rhymes just don’t do 50 Cent’s curtain call any justice.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Psycho’

Dark Or Blue - Teargas

Wed, 13 Jan 2010 12:00 +0200

Metro FM favourites and winners of this year’s Best Rap award at the SAMA’s, Teargas, are back with their third album, Dark Or Blue.

While their previous two releases won the awards, the accolades and the chart positions, Teargas’s new album is nothing to be sniffed at. It’s a carefully thought out blend of local kwaito and international hip hop, and features collaborations with HHP, Pro and Danny K. Minus a few dodgy R&B tracks, Dark Or Blue is a combination of catchy rhymes and toe-tapping beats.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Go Away,’ ‘This Year!’

Full Circle

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

The Johannesburg rockers release their second live DVD; and their latest album, All Or Nothing, which was released on an international scale has gone platinum in South Africa.

Before Prime Circle embarked on their December nationwide tour, we caught up with the band to chat about lyrical inspiration, social media and how they treat a woman on the first date.

Talking Taxi Violence

Thu, 17 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

After releasing The Turn earlier this year, the Cape Town-based rockers successfully tour through Germany and showed South Africa why they’ve been voted one of the country’s best rock bands.

We spoke to Taxi Violence about the new album, the truth behind groupies, and what it was like crossing the border as a band for the first time.

Celebration - Madonna

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

If you sing along to her tracks like Bridget Jones, hit up the karaoke bars with your own personal renditions of ‘Vogue’, and ‘Like A Prayer’, and think highly of the Queen of Pop’s Lil’ Wayne and JT collaborations, Madonna’s Best Of collection is for you.

The album celebrates Madonna’s reign from the early 80s with songs like ‘Lucky Star’ and ‘Holiday’, to 90s hits like ‘Ray of Light’ and ‘Frozen’. Fast-forward to tracks from her final multi-platinum studio album, Hard Candy, rewind to the 2003 album, American Life and you’ve got Madonna’s 26-year career condensed onto two discs.

This album truly is a celebration for any Madonna fan.

BEST TRACKS: It’s entirely up to you…

South African Indie Volume 1 - Various

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

South African Indie Volume 1 highlights the best tracks from locals’ debut or latest albums. While the majority of local music fans already have the album’s track listing as part of their CD collection, you should give this album a listen if names like Ashtray Electric and Jax Panik don’t mean anything to you.

If you haven’t heard of Die Heuwels Fantasties, New Holland and The Pretty Blue Guns, you’re in for a double treat. If you haven’t heard of Fokofpolisiekar, Taxi Violence and The Dirty Skirts, where have you been?

This is the collection for anyone unfamiliar with our local musos.

BEST TRACKS: Ashtray Electric – ‘Lia’, ‘Fokofpolisiekar – ‘Antibiotika’, Taxi Violence – ‘Venus Fly Trap’

Two Suns - Bat For Lashes

Mon, 14 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

As with the hype surrounding Little Boots and La Roux, Natasha Khan of one-woman-band Bat For Lashes, is yet another British starlet ready rule the charts.

Under her alter ego, Pearl, Khan began recording her concept album. Two Suns is layered with mystical, offbeat tracks. Influenced by TV On The Radio and MGMT’s beats, songs like the hit single ‘Daniel’ reflect the indie craze of the time, while the majority of tracks are simply soothing.

Two Suns commands you to listen to it. And the hype was justified.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Siren Song’, ‘Glass,’ ‘Daniel’

A Flash Interview

Fri, 11 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

Sassy lead singer, Tamara Dey, along with two of South Africa’s top DJs, Ryan Dent and Craig Massiv, form the unstoppable Flash Republic, arguably one of the best live acts in the country.

We spoke to the group at Synergy about girl power, what makes them tick, and which band member Dey would most likely take home to her parents.

Listen to our crazy, uncut interview where we’re interrupted by Zebra & Giraffe’s guitarist Alan and a phone call from a publicist. Oh, and that singing in the beginning is courtesy of Ryan Dent...

Killing Me Softly

Tue, 08 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

Brandon Flowers has been called the godfather of indie rock ‘n’ roll. He is beautiful and beguiling on stage; his theatrical performance is large and captivating. But in person, as I discovered on Sunday while interviewing him briefly before the band’s Cape Town show, he is far from the grandiose persona you see on stage.

We met backstage and were shown into a poky room with a chocolate-brown couch that had no doubt been housed there for decades and a table filled with soft drinks, snacks and Fizzers. Pink, green and blue Fizzers. The type you would find in a children’s party pack. Flowers, I already knew, is a teetotaller, so I was hardly expecting bottles of tequila. But Fizzers?

He sat at the end of the couch, hands together and head down, his gaze rarely moving from the space in his lap. For someone with such a huge physical stage presence he is actually quite diminutive and seemingly shy in person. He’s physically reserved and intellectually intimidating, and if you look closely you’ll notice that his eyes dart slightly from side to side. Not in a super-crazy way. But enough to make you feel unnerved.

He answered my questions openly. There was no fluff, no gratuitous self-promotion. He smiled when I asked him about the song ‘Moon River’ and softened when I asked him for an autograph. Ten minutes was all I had. Here is the interview:

One Love - David Guetta

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

With a large selection of party anthems to choose from, David Guetta’s fourth studio album is an absolute must have.

The French DJ has hit the big time, featuring collaborations with some of the world’s top artists, including Kelly Rowland, The Black Eyed Peas, Kid Cudi, Estelle, Akon, Ne-Yo, and Will. I. Am. Unlike other DJs, David Guetta has successfully managed to cross boundaries by using commercial artists, and those who didn’t appreciate house music before are breaking it down on the dance floors whenever one of his singles starts to play.

BEST TRACKS: ‘When Love Takes Over’ featuring Kelly Rowland, ‘Memories,’ featuring Kid Cudi, ‘Sexy Bitch’ featuring Akon

Turn It Up - Pixie Lott

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

Her debut release may include a few dodgy ballads in the form of ‘Gravity’ and ‘Band Aid’, but on the whole, the album is pop-solid. This must be one of the first pop albums in a long-time that doesn’t sound overproduced and doesn’t rely on Auto-Tune.

Turn It Up explores different genres; from hip hop and R&B influences to beats akin to Lily Allen’s style of alternative pop. And Lott’s rich, Duffy-esque voice manages to conform to each one flawlessly.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Mama Do,’ ‘Boys And Girls,’ ‘Turn It Up’

The Boy Who Knew Too Much - Mika

Wed, 09 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

The Boy Who Knew Too Much is divided between the crazy Mika we all know and love, complete with piano slides and lyrics about circuses and wind-up toys, and the softer Mika, who sings about dreaming of the one he loves. Considering the success of his multi-platinum debut, Life In Cartoon Motion, Mika’s second release might not be as good, but it’s a pretty good follow-up nonetheless.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Blame It On The Girls,’ ‘By The Time,’ ‘I See You’

Celebrate Madge

Thu, 03 Dec 2009 12:00 +0200

Former Billboard editor and US radio host Larry Flick sits down with Madonna for a quick chat about her music, life and Lordes.

Celebration is your third greatest hits album, but you're not the look-back girl, are you?
No.

So, does it feel weird that everyone's so excited about revisiting your old songs?
No, I'm not thinking that way. I'm happy that people want to hear my old songs. I've written some good songs!

Do you ever listen to them, yourself?
I try not to [laughs]. Actually, sometimes, I do. But the thing is that I'm on tour right now, and I'm doing some of those old songs. Inevitably, I'm going to be sicker of the songs that I'm singing every night. It's nice to revisit songs that I haven't heard for a while, and I think, 'Yeah that was a good song. I like that'.

What song are you feeling really good about right now?
That's old?

Yeah.
I like 'Beautiful Stranger'. That's a good one.

Are there are any song that you don't want to celebrate?
No. They are all a part of me, and an aspect of me, or a pivotal moment for me – even if they're not necessarily pivotal in a big, public way for me. I can certainly pinpoint what was going on in my life at that time. They're sign-posts.

Is there one song of yours that you think is perfect?
I certainly have songs that I feel resonate more and speak truthfully more about me than others. Like 'Don't Tell Me'. Or 'Like It Or Not'. Also, 'Live To Tell' would be one too.

Do you ever stop and think, 'I sure got a lot done'?
[Laughs] Sometimes. That would require free time!

You're not the sit-around girl, either, are you?
No, not much. Not with kids and a job. Every once in a while, I have a moment of reflection. It's usually because I'm forced to look back at it from somebody else's point of you… or if someone does a retrospective of my career. Then I go, 'I did all that?' It's usually someone else reminding me.

You have a knack of writing songs that are pointed and political, but also for writing songs that are carefree and fun. Which do you think hit people stronger?
People who are more politically aware and want to be inspired like songs like 'American Life', and people who just want to have a good time will like my more let's-have-fun kind of music. I think people are in different moods at different times. I'm in different moods at different times.

What kind of music are you listening to a lot these days?
I'm listening to a lot of electronic music.

Do you still like going clubbing?
Yes, but I certainly don't go clubbing when I'm on tour, because it's not really good for me. You can't talk loud after shows and stuff in smokey nightclubs

Being on the road sounds like a military operation. How long does it take to get ready for you to go on tour? For you physically?
First, I start to train for several months, just to get my cardiovascular endurance up so that I can sing and dance at the same time. Then putting the show together and figuring out the choreography and experimenting. Then I spend hours and hours with my band and my dancers and my choreographer and my director. It just becomes an endurance test. So by the time the show is put together, I'm physically ready, just from doing it over and over for months.

At what point do you say 'stop, get me outta here, this is too hard'?
Right about now. [Laughs] We did the tour for four months, and then we took a break. And now we've been on the road for a couple of months. It feels like a good time to end it. I'm ready to have another creative experience. I don't know how people go on the road for 18 months and do the same show. I couldn't do it.

Tell me about the working on the track 'Celebration' with Paul Oakenfold. What was it about working with him that was interesting to you?
Paul's done so many remixes for me. We've collaborated on a lot of music, just because of that. Plus, he's been opening for me on most of this tour, and we've hung out together a lot. He's played at parties I've thrown. I like his energy. I like his ability to make people get up and dance. He knows how to work a crowd. He's a very positive person, himself. I heard some of the production that he's done with other artists, and I decided to experiment with him.

The video features your daughter, Lourdes. How did that happen?
She hangs out with the dancers a lot. She's a dancer, herself. The video is about the celebration of music and dance. There's an improvisational moment when we're all in a circle and each dancer does their specialty or a special move that they do well. She wanted to do hers, so she did.

Were you comfortable with her doing the video?
Yeah. She really wanted to do it. It's just a little moment.

Are you getting an inkling that she wants to follow in your footsteps?
No. I don't think she wants to be a singer. I think she wants to be an actress.

How do you feel about that?
I'm fine with it, as long as she finishes school, and takes it seriously. She also plays piano, and she's really into clothes and fashion and style. She can go in any direction. She's got a lot of diverse interests right now. We'll see. I'm not pushing anything. We'll see what she wants to do.

She always seems so poised.
Yeah. She's grown up in the limelight, for sure. She's been protected, but she's been chased by the paparazzi since she was a tiny baby.

How is she dealing with being the big sister? Is she protective?
She's super-sister. She's amazing with the little ones. She has the typical relationship with her brother, Rocco. They're like 'I love you, I hate you' every five minutes. But with the two little ones, she's great. She's amazing. Very protective.

Are you going to be a Mom to any more kids?
Who knows? [Laughs]

Is that something you'd like?
[More laughter] Y'know, I have my hands full right now! I have no idea! That's all I'm going to say. But we never say never.

That's a good thing! What do you imagine your next record is going to sound like? Have you thought about it yet?
Not really. I love electronic music, so I'm sure that I'll keep doing something in that area. But I don't know who I'm going to work with yet.

What's next on your life check-list? What are you hoping to get done?
I have several projects going. I have another script that I've written, and I want to direct another film. Hopefully, I'll be doing that next year. I also have many, many projects going on in Africa right now that I want to bring to fruition, like building a girls school and working on two new documentaries that I want to make. So, I've got lots of projects going.

Could you ever imagine that your life would turn out this way?
No way!

It's pretty awesome, isn't it?
It's insane. I'm very lucky. I feel truly blessed.

The Twilight Saga: New Moon

Thu, 26 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

STARS
Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, Taylor Lautner, Ashley Green, Jackson Rathbone, Peter Facinelli, Kellan Lutz, Nikki Reed, Billy Burke, Michael Sheen, Dakota Fanning

GENRE
Romance/Adventure

STORY
New Moon picks up from Twilight's happy ending between Bella (Stewart) and Edward (Pattinson), but after a near-death experience at the Cullen's family home, Edward leaves the town of Forks. After breaking her heart, Bella struggles to forget Edward and sinks into a depression. Her long-time friend, Jacob Black (Lautner) comes to her aid. Jacob tries to get Bella to forget about Edward, and in the process, falls in love with her. Bella begins to act recklessly in an attempt to get Edward's attention, and through a serious miscommunication, Edward believes Bella has died.

He goes to the royal vampire family, the Volturi, and asks them to kill him, as he refuses to live if Bella is dead. He even threatens to break Volturi laws and reveal himself in the sunlight, but the Volturi still refuse to grant him his wish. After Edward's sister, Alice (Green) comes to Bella and informs her of Edward's plan to kill himself, they travel to Italy to stop him before it's too late.

WHAT WE THOUGHT
Whenever there's hype surrounding a movie, I tend to start worrying whether it'll live up to its expectations. And after watching the New Moon trailer about 25 times on YouTube, my expectations were pretty high to say the least.

Luckily, it was far from rubbish. While Twilight's special effects were dodgy, the new director, Chris Weitz, made sure to up the game for fans – proven in the werewolf battles and Edward's fight scene with the Volturi. From cinematography to makeup, the cast and crew on this film took the Twilight excitement and transformed its sequel into a New Moon masterpiece. Now let's hope Eclipse isn't overshadowed.

New Moon really does live up to the hype, ladies.

Something Better - Brian Temba

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

Better known for his role as Simba in London's West End production of The Lion King, South African-born Brian Temba is now trying his luck at a singing career.

While he looks super stylish and Kanye-West-slick, there really isn't anything special about Brian Temba's music. It seems as though Something Better is merely a collection of cheesy pop and soul tracks. Not even 'Dominoes', the first single, stands out as a real winner.

It would have been great to write home about another promising South African artist. It's only a pity his music and lyrics don't match his appeal.

BEST TRACKS: 'Dominoes'

New Wave

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

COSMO: How did you move from a strong folk and acoustic rock influence to what we hear from La Roux today?
Elly: Me and Ben realised we wanted to do something different with our songs, not for me to be just another singer-songwriter on a guitar. It coincided with me listening to more electronic music and going out raving. We didn't like the demos we had so we started again.

COSMO: La Roux is clearly influenced by Yazoo, David Bowie and all-round 80s pop. How has La Roux progressed from the typical synth-pop heard during the 1980s?
Elly: I think our beats are modern. We're also influenced by people like Clor, the Knife and Sebastian Tellier.

COSMO: If you had a choice, who would you sleep with: Vince Clark, Philip Oakey, Stephen Luscombe or Glenn Gregory?
Elly: Vince, I think!

COSMO: And what has Joni Mitchell taught you about men?
Elly: Joni Mitchell taught me a lot about words and poetry and melody, but not so much about men! It's difficult to tell with her, I think she put them on a bit of a pedestal, but she was exasperated at the same time.

COSMO: Talk us through the hairstyle…
Elly: Loads of mousse, wax and tons of hairspray! I never meant it to go this far… honestly

COSMO: Does your style affect your music or does your music affect your style?
Elly: The two are inextricably linked I think. I wanted to create music with a strong visual identity so I think they both inform each other.

COSMO: Your UK no.1 single, 'Bulletproof' focuses on distrust and letting go. Who is this song about?
Elly: That's for me to know and for you not to find out… Basically though, it's about knowing you're fucked and in love, but being defiant about not getting hurt again.

COSMO: UK media say you're one of the new feminist voices who are redefining the music industry. How do you feel about that kind of responsibility towards young women being placed on your shoulders?
Elly: I never set out to be a role model, but if there are girls who look up to me for not being blonde and covered in tango then that's great. There have been far too many negative role models for far too long. To be honest, I think I'm more responsible than a lot of women who find themselves in a position to influence people.

COSMO: Does being labelled as "Girl Power without the girly frills and lace" bother you? How do you feel about it?
Elly: Have I been labelled as that? I can't stand the term 'Girl Power' but I don't have a problem with people seeing me as a strong, hardworking and empowered woman. 90s Girl Power was all a bit 'get your tits out and then slap the bloke who letched at you', wasn't it?

COSMO: What's next for La Roux?
Elly: Some sleep please? Some time off? Please? Seriously though, we've got a UK tour coming up which I'm really looking forward to.

Stars Who Hate Their Hits

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

You might not be able to stop singing along to The Rolling Stones' 'I Can't Get No Satisfaction,' and think Oasis' 'Wonderwall' is the best song of all time, but the artists who penned those hits don't agree with you.

HATING THE HITS
Nirvana – 'Smells Like Teen Spirit'
It was the song that made Nirvana a household name, but the boys from Seattle weren't exactly impressed with the mass teenybopper hysteria that erupted after the release of the single. Kurt Cobain told Rolling Stone magazine he was embarrassed to play it; and this became clear when the band didn't play the song at their later shows. Not only did they not like the song, they hated the video too.

Radiohead – 'Creep'
Creep was the hit that catapulted Radiohead onto the rock scene. Everybody knew the hit, whether or not you knew the band. When they toured America in the early days, people would stay for 'Creep' and leave once the song was over. In the end, the band stopped playing the song for five years and even wrote 'My Iron Lung' as a description of their hatred for the song. And their nickname for 'Creep'? 'Crap'. Need we say more?

Oasis – 'Wonderwall'
Once again, the song that launched the band is the song the band themselves hate the most. When discussing their latest album, Dig Out Your Soul, Liam Gallagher said, 'At least there's no Wonderwall on there. I can't fucking stand that fucking song! Every time I have to sing it I want to gag. Problem is, it was a big, big tune for us.' 'Wonderwall' went platinum in the UK and has sold over a million copies to date.

Madonna – 'Like A Virgin'
Whether you sing along to this massive hit in the shower, while you watch Bridget Jones, or simply because you simply l-o-v-e it, 'Like A Virgin' is arguably one of Madonna's biggest hits since the 80s. However, the Queen of Pop is bored with her beginnings. As told to a New York radio station, Madonna said, 'I'm not sure I can sing "Like a Virgin" ever again. I just can't, unless somebody paid me, like, $30 million or something.' That's quite a wad of dough for one song Madge…

U2 – 'Where The Streets Have No Name'
One of the Irish rockers' most critically acclaimed hits, 'Where The Streets Have No Name' wasn't up to Bono's standards, apparently. The lyrics, which were originally written as a draft, left Bono feeling bleak. But it seems U2's producers thought differently. 'I thought they were fairly inane, but in the studio Brian Eno and Daniel Lanois thought they were perfect. I told them they were only sketches and I could do much better. Now I have to sing them for the rest of my life and it's our most successful live song.' Such is life Bono.

Vanilla Ice – 'Ice Ice Baby'
One of the most overplayed songs of the late 80s, 'Ice Ice Baby' got everybody dancing and singing in karaoke bars. Vanilla Ice regretted every second of it, once the money started running out of course. He even took the opportunity to destroy MTV's master copy with a baseball bat after the video was permanently taken off the air. Unfortunately for the rapper, you can't get rid of 'Ice Ice Baby' that easy; unless you destroy every jukebox on earth.

LEARNING TO LOVE
The Rolling Stones – 'I Can't Get No Satisfaction'
While guitarist Keith Richards may have grown to like the Stones' hit single, he wasn't too pleased about it originally. According to Mick Jagger, Richards thought it was a bit basic with a silly riff. 'Keith didn't like it much, he didn't want it to be a single, he didn't think it would do very well.' Oh, how wrong he was.

Tina Turner – 'What's Love Got To Do With It'
After an insufferable marriage to her abusive husband, Ike Turner, Tina Turner was ready to start over with a new hit. But when she discovered her comeback would be 'What's Love Got To Do With It,' she wasn't happy at all. She hated it so much she almost refused to record it. When it became a number one hit on the US Billboard Hot 100 for 64 consecutive weeks and revived her career, she quickly changed her mind. Good thinking.

FOR KICKS
Katy Perry's parents – 'I Kissed A Girl'
While this song was one of 2008's biggest hits, Katy Perry's evangelical Christian parents were not impressed. 'I hate the song. Its message is shameful and disgusting,' says Perry's mother, Mary Hudson. 'Katy knows how I feel. We are a very outspoken family and she knows how disappointed her father and I are. I can't even listen to that song. The first time I heard it I was in total shock. When it comes on the radio I bow my head and pray.' Wow.

Their Space

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

Some of today's biggest bands and artists launched their careers through social media networks like MySpace. From the UK's Arctic Monkeys to indie pop princess, Kate Nash, it seems you don't need a record label to get your music out there.

ROCKING ONLINE
Many bands use MySpace as a platform not only to get their music out there, but to expand their fan bases, premiere new videos and release new songs. British indie rockers, Arctic Monkeys were hailed as one of the first bands to use the network to promote their music. Since then, some of the now, biggest names in the rock and indie realm have emerged through social media.

Pop punk band, My Chemical Romance, who have received well over 44 million hits, began their career by releasing free downloads of their songs. Weezer made their much-needed comeback after making their new album available on MySpace before it could be purchased in stores. The same goes for alternative rockers White Lies and US super group Queens of the Stone Age, who both launched their albums on the site. Whether you're looking for the new 30 Seconds To Mars video or Beck's latest single, you're likely to find it on MySpace first.

POPPING ONLINE
It might have taken London starlet Lily Allen a lot longer to get her music out there had it not been for social media. As with many young musicians, she created a profile and uploaded a few demo recordings. Thousands of clicks later and Miss Allen landed a record deal. In an interview with a Seattle radio station, Allen said, 'I never set up the MySpace with the intention of millions of people listening to my music. Everyone was going on MySpace… and I realised you could actually put your music up there, so I did. Four months into it, and people were saying, "You've got a million people listening to your songs".'

'Beautiful Girl' rapper, Sean Kingston was discovered via his profile, as was American pop star, Colbie Caillat, after her friends suggested she give MySpace a go. Pop princess, Taylor Swift and 'Pumpkin Soup' singer Kate Nash contribute their popularity and success to MySpace; and together, these pop princesses have over 117 million profile views.

Speaking to Yahoo's OMG! Celebrities, Swift praises the site as a great way to hear what her fans think of her music: 'MySpace has been so imperative to my career. Putting my music on MySpace let me get comments back from people. You'll put up a new song and you get instant feedback directly from the fans. As an artist, I think it's just so exciting.'

While MySpace has certainly launched careers, it has also proved to be the perfect platform for recognised artists, such as Madonna and The Black Eyed Peas. The Queen of Pop's 2005 multi-platinum album, Confessions On A Dance Floor was first launched on the site, while Will.I.Am's crew used their profile to reconnect with their fans and re-establish their name.

From unsigned indie bands to the latest superstar rapper, MySpace has become the place to discover, listen to, and download music. With over 125 million active users a month, someone's bound to hear your sound.

Fresh Goes Electro 2 - DJ Fresh

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

While the album's title is slightly misleading, as there is nothing electro about Fresh Goes Electro 2, it's a definite party-starter for all the house fans out there who enjoy breaking it down in the early hours of a Saturday or Sunday morning.

Fresh isn't one of South Africa's best-loved DJs for nothing: he has taken some of the biggest local and international tracks and mixed them to perfection on this latest release. Even those who don't like house will be able to appreciate the beats when they hit the dance floor. If all you want is a taste, skip straight to Paul van Dyk and Calvertron, it's sure to get you nodding your head in no time.

Get this if you want a two-disc, 32-track all-night-long house party.

BEST TRACKS: Paul van Dyk 'For An Angel' (Spencer & Hill Remix), Calvertron, 'Phat Beat,' Goldfish 'Hold Tight' (Shaun Duvet & SoftServe Chop Suey Edit)

A Different Me - Keyshia Cole

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

This sassy superstar has worked with everyone from Kanye West and P. Diddy to Missy Elliott and T.I., and now she's making a name for herself in a deeply saturated hip-hop industry, where telling one R&B singer apart from another has become increasingly difficult.

While there's nothing groundbreaking about A Different Me, there's no need to criticise anything either, besides the odd, slightly misplaced monk chants at the beginning of track four. All in all, she's managed to produce a non-offensive, vocally powerful third album. And the best part: there's a great 2Pac addition added to the mix on 'Playa Cardz Right.'

If R&B is your thing, then Keyshia Cole's new offering is definitely for you.

BEST TRACKS: 'A Different Me' (Intro and Outro), 'Thought You Should Know'

The Turn - Taxi Violence

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

It's taken Taxi Violence three years to release a new album. As one of the most popular rock bands in the country, fans have been waiting for the moment they could get their hands on The Turn.

As the album's title suggests, Taxi Violence has certainly changed their tune – what was once raw and dirty, is now cleaner, crisper and more finely produced rock 'n roll. A number of the songs on the album have been played live for quite some time, but don't fret; The Turn is packed with new material and an altogether new edge to front man George van der Spuy's voice. Check out the video for the new single, 'Devil 'N Pistol' for an inside look into the new Taxi Violence.

If you've been a fan since the days of 'Untie Yourself' and 'The Mess', then The Turn is simply a must-have for your collection.

BEST TRACKS: 'Devil 'N Pistol,' 'Hold 'Em Or Fold 'Em,' 'Death To Hollywood'

Jigsaw - Lady Sovereign

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 12:00 +0200

If you're not Missy Elliott, it's probably best to avoid rapping. There are a mere handful of decent female rappers out there. Lady Sovereign may be a controversial bad girl, but she's without a doubt one kick-ass rapper.

She's defied expectations by being one of the first female rappers to make it big in a male-dominated industry. With the release of her second album, Jigsaw, this no-fuss grime artist is causing havoc on stages the world over with her thick London accent and down-and-dirty beats.

After a two-year dark and personal battle, Lady Sovereign is back and, oh, how she's breaking it down.

BEST TRACKS: 'I Got You Dancing,' 'Guitar,' 'Jigsaw'

The Way She Are

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200

Keri Hilson is no newcomer to the music industry. Having written songs for the likes of Britney Spears and Ciara, her success has been a long time in the making. The past year has seen her making big waves as an artist and even threatening the status quo of who rules the urban charts. She recently impressed SA with her shows alongside John Legend, and spoke to the media in Cape Town.

COSMO was lucky enough to speak to this beautiful and talented woman one-on-one about music, love, beauty and life in the spotlight.

COSMO: You've often said in interviews that you've had to fight for your place as a woman in the music industry. What qualities does it take to do that and can other women apply it to their own lives and careers?
KERI: I would say perseverance and tenacity because no one is exempt from hardships and failure but it makes you appreciate the successes even more. No one will hand you anything on a silver platter so you have to go out and work for what you want. I definitely wasn't an overnight success.

COSMO: What is a bigger priority for you, being a song writer or being an artist and why?
KERI: Even though being an artist was my first dream, I got to love song writing the way I did because I was also passionate about that. I didn't know that it was a career and that people could make it their job. When I learned that and it took off far and fast like it did, I learnt to love it just as much and that's also how I made my living. If I was just an artist and didn't have my song writing to fall back on as my plan B then I wouldn't be the artist that I am today.

COSMO: Who is your favourite artists at the moment and why?
KERI: I'd have to say Lauryn Hill. I'm most inspired by her music, so she always goes down as one of my favourite for this generation of musicians.

COSMO: Do you find it difficult to balance your Christian beliefs with the type of work that you do?
KERI: My beliefs are tested all the time in this industry. It's about finding balance and praying because sometimes you have to step into the lion's den to teach someone something. I think you're given a talent by God to be able to inspire someone. You can't do that by thinking you're superior, sometimes you have to join them and then bring them to God later and I think I've been given the platform to do that.

COSMO: How does your career affect you having a relationship?
KERI: My career makes it hard to maintain a relationship. I'm in a different city almost every day, I feel like I wouldn't be able to devote the time it takes to cultivate a relationship. I would bring positive things to it but I wouldn't be able to bring the time part, which is important.

COSMO: What do you look for in a man?
KERI: I like them to be a little bit taller than me, I like them to be a little bit smarter because I want someone that can teach me something, you know stimulate my mind. Of course looking good is a plus. I want someone who's working towards acquiring a better life for himself, whatever that means to him. I think it's important that a man isn't complacent in life. Of course he has to be Christian and respect his mother and women in general.

COSMO: What turns you off in a man?
KERI: Body odour, bad breath and stuff like that I couldn't deal with. Another turn off is a man who flaunts things and assumes that women only want material things. He couldn't be more far from the truth if he thought that so I couldn't be with a man like that.

COSMO: Do you have any beauty secrets that you can share with COSMO girls?
KERI: Facials are my beauty secret. I have to wear makeup a lot, sometimes I wear makeup for 20 hours a day and that's difficult on the skin. Facials are what make people think you're glowing so I recommend them to everybody.

COSMO: How do you stay in shape?
KERI: I like to eat and I'm not a workout fanatic, I never was but I enjoy a good session on the treadmill. I think it's all about balance; no matter what it is you eat, as long as you work it off afterwards. It's hard when I'm on the road because there's very little time to do it so I don't work out as much as I should.

COSMO: Which celebrity would you sing 'Turnin Me On' to?
KERI: It would have to be Tyson Beckford because he is so fine. I don't know him so I know nothing else about him but wow his physical is definitely there.

COSMO: What do you think of the blogs that write about you and other celebrities? They can be very harsh...
KERI: The blogs tear a lot of people up but I get it, it's entertaining. It's kind of like going to a comedy show and people are made fun of, you just have to know not to take it personally. I laugh even when they say things about me because they don't know me. So they're not attacking the core of me, they're attacking what they think they know of me and what they think of me. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, I laugh at the things they write about me because a lot of them couldn't be further from the truth.

COSMO: What legacy would you like to leave behind? How do you want to be remembered by the world?
KERI: I want people to remember that I was a hard worker and a very approachable person. That I was just a regular person who grew up with a dream and a passion for something and it didn't come easy. A lot of young women give up at the first sign of adversity and will just say 'Oh no this is too hard, I'm not a fighter'. I want them to be fighters, to have the tenacity and drive that a lot of men have because they're more competitive in life.

Battle of the DJs

Thu, 22 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200

We want to know which 5FM disc jockey floats a COSMO girl's boat.

On every page of the COSMOPOLITAN website, you'll find a poll asking you to vote for either DJ Fresh, Gareth Cliff, Mlu or Roger Goode.

We'll be tweeting the results on a regular basis, to keep everyone up to speed. So follow us on twitter: http://www.twitter.com/CosmopolitanSA

Beyonce's Red Carpet Style

Tue, 13 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200

Beyoncé Knowles has been walking the red carpet since the age of 16. Whether it's in a Giorgio Armani Privé gown or a creation from her mother's House of Dereon line, the Grammy, AMA and Billboard award winner has been called everything from a Grecian goddess to a bootylicious diva.

But it seems nothing fazes the 28-year-old beauty as she continues to proudly strut her style in a way that's uniquely Beyoncé. That's just one of the reasons Mrs Jay-Z is the COSMO cover girl for November 2009.

Take a look at our photo gallery of Beyoncé's recent red carpet style.

Four Minutes With John Legend

Thu, 15 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200

When you're given a few minutes, a small room and the super sexy John Legend, you make the most of it and ask him what part of a woman's anatomy he would write a song about, naturally.

COSMO Online got an exclusive opportunity to briefly interview the award-winning artist while on tour with Keri Hilson in South Africa. Watch the video here.

John Legend and Keri Hilson will perform live at the GrandWest Arena in Cape Town on 15 October, at the Indoor Arena ICC in Durban on 17 October and at the Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg on 18 October. Get your tickets here!

Tough as Roxx

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200

She's been defamed, lied to and misjudged, but South Africa's first female Indian DJ is conquering the SA music scene one click at a time.

COSMO: Aside from being female and Indian, what makes you different from any other South African DJ?
Roxxi: 'It's a difficult question to answer because I believe that most DJs and musicians in this industry are excellent at what they do and they all have that "little something" extra that makes them stand out. But as corny as it many sound, I honestly think my passion, drive and dedication is what gives me the edge. There have been times where I have been lied to, defamed and misjudged, but I believe in the end my resilience and never-give-up attitude has got me to where I am. I never take no for an answer but usually see it as a "not right now" and use the time to fine tune my skills.'

COSMO: Do you think your race and gender helped you make a name for yourself in the industry in the long run? Something that helped you stand out and made people sit up and take notice more perhaps?
Roxxi: 'As much as I hate the whole gender and race debate I have to admit it's true. The fact that I'm female is not such an issue right now as we have a wealth of talented female DJs in SA with Erica Elle and Lady Lea being my two top role models who have given me great advice. However, being Indian and female most definitely got people to stand up and take notice – sometimes not always a good response.

'For the most part I think it was refreshing to see a new female DJ and the fact that she was Indian may not be an issue now, but a few years back starting off it was unheard off. However, I made a bold decision to go ahead with my passion and this has allowed a lot of young Indian women to forge ahead in the music industry. I still get e-mails from young girls saying that by me boldly stepping out embracing this "different" career their parents are more accepting of them making their marks in the industry as well.'

COSMO: Do you think things are changing for female artists in the SA music industry?
Roxxi: 'Most definitely! Now it's commonplace to see females behind the decks, which makes it much easier for us as opposed to a few years ago. I think we finally are catching up to our UK and US counterparts with a growing steady stream of female DJs actively working within the industry.'

COSMO: Why music? And why DJing? Especially considering that it's 'frowned upon' in the Indian community.
Roxxi: 'I think when you speak to anyone working in a career they are so passionately drawn to, they will say that it's the passion that pulled them in. As long as I can remember, I have loved music and all aspects of it. DJing is one aspect that has afforded me many opportunities, but it was actually producing that I was initially drawn to. Now I am able to juggle the both simultaneously. Growing up I always had the fear that I would be judged if I were to pursue such a career but as time moved on, more and more young Indian females were making their marks in their respective industries – from Krijay Govender directing Isidingo to Sureshni Rider being the first and only Indian female radio jock on 5FM – and naturally I felt that I would step ahead regardless of what people may think. It was risk but not one I regret.

COSMO: Yet despite this disapproval of your DJing career from your community, your mother owned a night club? Did she face the same challenges as you?
Roxxi: 'Yes most definitely. I think I get my resilient and never-give-up attitude from her. I watched her fight many battles and learnt how to handle life's challenges with grace and humility. As I've said before times have changed a lot and now its commonplace to see women from all walks of life tackle all sorts of industries, but in the beginning it was a difficult road to travel and I learnt how best to wear my hiking boots for those rocky roads from the challenges my mum experienced!'

COSMO: Not everybody was as welcoming of your rise to fame, particularly Lotus FM DJ Deon Chetty in 2007. What have you learnt from that experience?
Roxxi: 'Looking back at it I laugh now, but it was a difficult time. Yes I knew there were going to be critics out there. We can never expect our lives to be sunshine and roses. However, what hit me left field was that, here we have a prominent DJ from a station I grew up with, discrediting me on air due to his personal preference. It wasn't to say that the music was bad, but rather he did not enjoy it and he chose to abuse his platform and air his views. I have no problem with people having their own opinions but what saddened me was that we have a radio DJ that many young listeners look up to discrediting an up-an-coming female DJ for no particular reason. The whole incident taught me how to handle criticism and negative situations in a professional manner. I kept my cool and in the end his actions were answerable and he had to deal with the repercussions thereafter. If anything I had a lot of people rooting for me and learnt that in the end you music and work speaks for itself.'

COSMO: And now you're playing with big names like Fresh, Euphonik, Craig de Souza and Roger D Lux. Any words for the haters from your past?
Roxxi: 'I don't think I have a specific message for haters per say but there is a motto I have learnt to live by. "Be careful of the people you tramp on your way to the top as it's the very same people you may meet on your way down".'

COSMO: Why did you release your debut single online (and for free) and not cut the single to DVD and sell it?
Roxxi: 'Getting my break within the DJ sector was hard and so naturally trying to secure a record deal would prove even more difficult. I think I speak for many when I say that it's a tough industry to crack. My dear friend Nic Billington (vocalist on my new single) and I have both witnessed the growing trend of artists releasing their music digitally whether for free or at a cost. I specifically chose that route knowing that it's new here in SA. The tough aspect was absorbing the costs for production, but I know that I wanted someone who was talented and creative, which is why we enlisted Craig Massiv who is one third of Flash Republic. The single did well with regard to downloads and is currently being remixed by a DJ in India and London. So I definitely feel new artists should explore the option of independently recording and releasing because even though labels may not want to sign, you the general public may still love your work.'

COSMO: Would you ever allow fans to download a full album (when you release one) online? Do you think it could be a sustainable marketing tool?
Roxxi: 'Most definitely. Marketing-wise, releasing my debut single has afforded me many opportunities and got me some good sponsors.'

COSMO: What do you think is the future of online and digital marketing in the SA music industry, particularly now that you've released your single 'Away' through your website and Facebook?
Roxxi: 'Having a good online relationship with your fans is pivotal in growing your brand. And seeing as most of the market I play for in clubs and events are online, it makes perfect sense to follow this trend. From Twitter to Facebook to MySpace to countless music sites where you can upload you music are all avenues artists can use to expose their talents. I have noticed that also many established artists are using these social networking sites to engage with their fans and update them on their latest developments. Companies are using them as well to sell or advertise products. I can confidently say that a whole new world has opened up with regard to online advertisements for artists and companies, which make it much easier to spread the music and your message!'

COSMO: Where to from here for Roxxi?
Roxxi: 'I am focused on a tight five-year plan, which encompasses a radio show that I feel will allow me access to a wider audience, starting a music magazine specifically for local music, and to grow my events company to host big concerts and encouraging the big name artists to include South Africa has a leg on the world tours. I live and breathe music and I don't want it be any different five years down the line.'

* Follow DJ Roxxi online on Twitter and Facebook.

* Download her new single 'Away' here >>

Public Enemies

Mon, 05 Oct 2009 12:00 +0200

STARS
Johnny Depp, Christian Bale, Marion Cotillard, Billy Crudup, Stephen Dorff, Jason Clarke and Stephen Lang

GENRE
Action

STORY
So it's 1933/34 and the FBI is struggling to keep crime under control. Bank robber Dillinger (Depp) and his gang are fearless and become public enemy number one. No matter how hard Purvis (Bale) chases, Dillinger seems to escape his claws every time. Of course Dillinger meets the girl of his dreams in the midst of all this – Billie Frechette, who is taken from the life of a coat check girl to fur coats and fancy dinners.

WHAT WE THOUGHT
I'm not a groupie, but I am a fan of Johnny Depp's work. My advice to him, he should've given this one a skip. The make-up artist couldn't even match his skin tone with the excessive amount of base.

Here's the movie in a nutshell: cops chase bad guy, girl loses her heart, cops eventually catch bad guy, lots of blank spaces where info gets passed on without explanation, more car chases and endless shooting scenes.

I feel cheated. And Depp shouldn't expect any awards. Certainly not for makeup anyway.

Q&A with Mr September

Tue, 29 Sep 2009 12:00 +0200

Soccer hottie Andre Petim appears as Mr September on the COSMOPOLITAN Sexiest SA Men Calendar 2009, and sits down for a quick Q&A with us.

How does it feel to be Mr September on the COSMOPOLITAN Sexiest SA Men Calendar 2009?
It's an honour to be a part of it and it was a great experience meeting new people on the shoot.

Would you pose for the calendar again?
Definitely, I had so much fun doing it

Have any of your Ajax team mates teased you about appearing in the calendar?
Oooooh yes! I've had a lot of stick from them, but it's all been good-natured. I think they're just jealous...

Do you think international soccer players like David Beckham and Christiano Ronaldo spend too much time focusing on their appearance and not enough on their soccer careers?
No, not really. They are both really talented football players and use their looks to their advantage to make more money. If you look at Christiano Ronaldo, I don't think they took his looks into consideration when they bought him for 80 million pounds. It was due to his talent and commitment on the football pitch.

Before you were a soccer player, what were some of the jobs you've had?
I've been playing soccer since I was five-years-old and signed with Ajax while I was still at school, but I've always helped out in the family business.

Any plans yet for when you retire from soccer?
No concrete plans, but I'd still like to be involved in soccer in some way. My family runs a successful business that I have shares in so I always have that to fall back on.

As a sports star you probably get loads of women coming up to you. How can you tell if a woman is genuine or just trying to use you?
Hahaha! In South Africa, football stardom is not like overseas, but on occasion you do get the odd lady fan coming up to you. I guess you just trust your instincts and will sense if they're interested in you personally or your fame.

Have you ever dated a girl your friends didn't like?
No, not really. My girlfriend and I met through mutual friends so that worked out well!

What have you learnt on the soccer field that can be applied when on a date?
Dating is like a match, as you first have to suss out your opponent, get to know what tactics they're using, try and break through their defensive patterns and hopefully score at the end of the day. Oh, and no tackles from behind, that's a red card.

Do you prefer women who watch sport/soccer?
No, it doesn't really matter to me, but I guess it's a bonus if they do. It's funny trying to teach them the offside rule. Why don't women get it?? Hahaha...

What are your thoughts on Bafana and the 2010 World Cup?
Some of my friends and teammates might be a part of the World Cup squad so it would be nice to see them in action doing well. We didn't do too badly in the Confederations Cup so hopefully we'll keep it up. I hope that everybody, whether they follow local soccer or not, comes out to support our nation and the World Cup as it's a once in a lifetime opportunity to watch it on home soil.

Devilishly Foxy

Mon, 14 Sep 2009 12:00 +0200

Not many 23-year-olds can say their telephone number is worth an airplane (a fan offered to give her a plane in exchange for her number). But is she the new Angelina? Is it true that she's insecure about her body? And does she really believe because she has a vagina that she controls all the power in a relationship?

The super sultry Megan Fox answers all these and more questions in the October issue of COSMOPOLITAN magazine (on sale 16 September).

Watch the video from Megan Fox's first ever COSMO cover shoot (courtesy of our American sisters). Enjoy!

Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:00 +0200

A tribute to their saxophonists and founding member, LeRoi Moore, who died of complications after an off-road vehicle accident, the album kicks off with the sounds of Moore's saxophone intertwined with the sounds of DMB.

The highly anticipated album has die-hard fans fired up because it's the first studio album in four years since 2005's Stand Up, and is said to be their best one yet. Big Whiskey and the Groogrux King is a mixture of rock and funky bass, but it's the emotion that has made it the success it is. As many would say, it's their old sounds with a new look.

Not being the biggest DMB fan myself, I would still say it's an album worth listening to – even if it's just 'Shake Me Like a Monkey', but you be the judge.

BEST TRACKS: 'Shake Me Like a Monkey'; 'Lying in the Hands of God'

Lindiwe Suttle - Lindiwe Suttle

Thu, 03 Sep 2009 12:00 +0200

First born of TV personality Felicia Mabuza-Suttle, Lindiwe has made her mark on the fashion and entertainment industry working as a celebrity fashion stylist and a TV presenter, and yes she can sing. She's the leading lady of the jazz/soul/funk/hip-hop ensemble Rus Nerwich and the Collective Imagination, and performed at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival opening for Mos Def.

Suttle has a powerful voice with a soft quality added to it. She has performed in the US, Europe and South Africa and is now working on her solo album. Watch out for her as she climbs the ladder in the SA music industry.

BEST TRACKS: 'Sweet like Butta'; 'Wearing Gold'

Q&A with Mr August

Sun, 30 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

Valentin Mwaka, the hottie also known as Mr August on COSMO's Sexiest SA Men Calendar 2009, let us fire a few quick questions at him.

So, you're Mr August. Congratulations!
Thanks!

What was the COSMO calendar photo shoot like?
It was good. Anthony Friend's a really good guy, and the rest of the crew were very nice. But I really took a liking to Anthony because he encouraged me to continue with my modelling and acting and even gave me some pointers.

How did you get the calendar gig?
I just came back from shooting a movie in Durban when my agency, 3D Models, called me and said that COSMOPOLITAN wanted to see me. I met a few of the ladies, had a chat with them and then they asked me if I'd like to shoot with Anthony.

What movie were you shooting?
It was a Bollywood film. I had to shoot a diving scene, so I had to go for training and I learnt to dive. I was so scared because it was the very first time I had a shark so close to me, in my face almost!

Do you ever get ladies referring to you as "Mr August?"
Of course! All the time! Sometimes I'm in the grocery store and people come up to me and say that I look very familiar, and then they realise that I'm from the COSMO calendar. And then they start talking about my body...

Do you get shy when they talk about your body like that?
Not really. I even get people talking about the calendar and my body on Facebook . Sometimes it's a bit difficult to handle because a lot of people only want to friend me on Facebook because of my body, and not for who I am.

How has appearing in the calendar changed your life? (If at all)
I've been getting more modelling and acting opportunities since the calendar was printed, so my life has changed a bit.

Would you pose for the calendar again?
Of course, why not? It's my job.

I can imagine your friends or family must have teased you about appearing in the calendar?
I sent the calendar to my two daughters and my sister, and they all liked it. But I would never send it to my mother and the rest of my family – they might start thinking that Valentine's making a lot of money...

How much time do you spend in the gym?
About two hours – 35 minutes for cardio and one hour working with light weights, not heavy weights.

If you only work with light weights, how did you build this great body of yours?
I've been training for a long time now; I started 17 years ago. I just look after myself by watching what I eat, what time I go to bed and keep my stress levels as low as possible.

You've been training for 17 years? What's your speciality?
I started with Tai Kwon Do when I was 9 years old. When I was 12 I picked up Ju Jit Su, and when I was 15 I started ShoToken – I've got my black belt. These days I do boxing. My dream was to one day to Mai Tai. When I was younger, I used to watch action movies and promised myself that one day I'd learn how those moves. A few years ago I met Winston Chong and he invited me to his gym, and that's how I finally took those steps to realising my Mai Tai dreams.

Where do you think is the best place to meet women?
The perfect place to meet a woman, for me, would be at a coffee shop.

Which South African city do you think has the most beautiful women?
Durban is nice, and so is Cape Town. But for me all ladies are beautiful, it's their personalities I look at.

How much time do you spend grooming yourself?
I spend a lot of time trimming my goatee. I bath for 45 minutes and spend a lot of time in the bathroom. But then when I go out, I spend even more time there.

What is the one thing about women you don't understand or annoys you?
When women are selfish; when they only think about themselves and how you or your body could get them certain places. And when they expect you to only understand their side of things, like your side is almost insignificant.

The One Night Stands - The One Night Stands

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

After the massive indie band influx onto the South African music scene last year, The One Night Stands have been put up against some stiff competition. You've got to hand it to them though, they've done well. Their first single 'Talk Talk' lingered on the MK charts and their latest hit, '1992' is currently topping UJFM's Top 40.

While there certainly isn't anything wrong with the album, it might not be strong enough to contend with other local talent, such as Ashtray Electric or New Holland. The One Night Stands have brought out a respectable debut, one that is catchy in some parts, but unfortunately lacking in others.

BEST TRACKS: '1992,' 'Hymns,' 'Talk Talk'

Asleep In The Bread Aisle - Asher Roth

Thu, 27 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

While he might have been hailed as 2009's Eminem, it seems unlikely he'll be able to beat Eminem's unbounded popularity. But don't rule this album out just yet.

Asleep in the Bread Aisle is well-produced: crisp, clear and solid throughout, despite the fact that Roth sings about a load of rubbish, associated predominantly with drunken college parties, drugs and masturbation. The album does have its moments, in the form of songs like 'His Dream', which makes up for the lack of musical ingenuity heard during the remaining 11 tracks.

Collaborations with Busta Rhymes, Keri Hilson and Cee-Lo give this debut a bit of credibility, but despite clever alliances and a savvy producer, it seems as though Asleep in the Bread Aisle won't amount to anything more than a mere one-hit wonder.

BEST TRACKS: 'His Dream,' 'I Love College'

Tracy McGregor Pop Quiz

Thu, 20 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

She may have a famous sister, but as COSMOPOLITAN's September cover girl, Tracy McGregor can certainly hold her own. At the cover shoot we got Tracy to answer our pop quiz...

1. Sometimes I wish I weren't famous because then I could:
• Run errands in my comfy clothes
• Make a mistake without everyone watching
• Have a lot more free time for…
• I never wish that

2. The best part of being a celebrity is:
• The free clothes and stuff
• Getting to meet cool people
• Going to premieres and awards shows
• Having a personal assistant
• Taking fancy holidays
• Other

3. The feature I get complimented on most is my…
Eyes.

4. When I feel sexy, I put on…
Sexy underwear and a smile.

5. My weirdest phobia is…
Snakes, sharks, bugs, should I carry on going? Hahaha

6. I'm totally addicted to…
My family and pickled onions.

7. If I could trade lives with another woman for a day, it would be…
Fergie (from Black Eyed Peas) – have you seen her man, OMG!

8. You'd probably be surprised to find out that I've never…
Been to Robben Island and I've lived in Cape Town all my life.

9. My favourite part/s of my body is/are:
• My butt
• My boobs
• My abs
• My legs

10. The best relationship advice I ever received was…
Don't give in too easily.

11. A dating deal-breaker for me is when a guy…
Only does things to please himself and doesn't care about anyone else's feelings.

12. In relationships, I usually:
• Wear the pants
• Am the more emotional one
• Can't get enough public displays of affection
• Make all the plans
• Overanalyse everything
• Other

13. You know you're in love when…
You don't want to spend another moment without him.

14. The craziest thing I've ever done for a guy is…
I don't think this is that type of magazine hahaha.

15. The best beauty tip I've ever been given is…
Drink lots of water and always take your make-up off before you go to sleep.

16. I get annoyed when people call me…
Dumb, just because I'm a model.

17. The best fashion tip I've ever received is…
Dress for your body type.

18. The most embarrassing thing that's ever happened to me was…
I don't get embarrassed too easily, but a very blind moment was when I tripped over the edge of a carpet at a party and fell flat on my face in front of everyone. I had the worst carpet burn on my elbow after that.

19. My celebrity crush is…
Josh Duhamel

20. It's worse to:
• Cheat on someone
• Be cheated on

21. When I'm home alone, I…
Relax in front of the TV.

22. You know a guy is perfect for you when:
• You can share the same wardrobe
• Your mother likes him
• He can deal with your relatives
• You like the same food
• You like the same music
• Other

23. My favourite spot for a first date is:
• My place
• A quiet restaurant
• The Movies
• A sporting event

24. I would never date a guy who:
• Smoked
• Didn't want kids
• Already had kids
• Had dated one of my friends in the past
• Could share jeans with me
• Other

25. The best thing about being blonde is that…
It looks really great with a tan hahaha.

For more on Tracy McGregor read p.82 of the September issue of COSMOPOLITAN magazine.

A Sound Clash

Tue, 18 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

In South Africa's very first Red Bull Soundclash, the larger than life hip-hop band, Tumi and the Volume will step into the ring with the non-nonsense indie rockers, the Dirty Skirts to perform head to head and mic to mic over four rounds of musical mayhem.

On Saturday 22 August at the Carlton Centre Sky Rink, the two bands from different genres will slug it out to win the favour of the crowd to be crowned champion.

THE CLASH
Each band will have their own stage at either end of the arena. For every round, the bands will contest for points, determined by the crowd via the applause meter. The band with the most points after all rounds will be crowned king of the South African Red Bull Soundclash.

THE ROUNDS
a) Warm Up – each band plays three of their own songs to pump up the crowd.
b) Round 1: The 'Cover' (creative round) – DJ Kenzhero cuts in a well known song and each band plays a cover version of the song in their own style.
c) Round 2: The 'Take Over' (spontaneous round) – Tumi and the Volume play one of their hits and on cue from the hosts, The Dirty Skirts take over the song in their style and then vice versa.
d) Round 3: The 'Sound Clash' (innovative round) – DJ Kenzhero determines a musical style (eg. reggae, punk, funk, etc) for each heat then cuts in a song for Tumi and the Volume to pick up from in the pre-determined style. The Dirty Skirts will then pick up the same style and 'attack' Tumi and the Volume who will then 'respond'. This round ends with each of the bands 'melting' the song into one of their own tunes.
e) Round 4: The 'Wild Card' (mystery round) – Each band plays one more song together with their invited special (secret) guest for the last opportunity to gain the crowd's affection.

THE INTERVIEWS
We got Tumi and the Volume and The Dirty Skirts to answer our questions...

1. How did The Dirty Skirts and Tumi and the Volume get involved with Red Bull and the Sound Clash?

DS: Through begging mostly.

TATV: We got approached by the good people at Red Bull. I think they had an idea of the contrast between bands they wanted to reach, and we simply fitted the profile as one of the bands. We're also a band that doesn't take life too seriously.

2. Ever participated in something like this before?

DS: Absolutely not, this is a one of a kind. A band face-off – who ever heard of that?

TATV: Never.

3. How are you guys preparing for the Sound Clash?

DS: Doing dance classes, hair removal, archery and lots of protein shakes.

TATV: We're trying out some new things, stepping out of our comfort zones. We're also working out at the gym, in case the clash gets physical.

4. Which tracks are you guys preparing for the Sound Clash?

DS: Top secret, muchacho.

TATV: Super Top Secret.

5. The gloves have started to come off with the promo videos being flighted on MTV Base. So what do The Dirty Skirts and Tumi & the Volume really think of each other?

DS: Musically speaking they are like a vanilla sponge cake – their music is sweet and contains little substance.

TATV: We really hate them. They stand for all that's wrong with the music of today. We dislike almost everything about them, even where they come from.

6. Any sabotage or intimidation emerging from the opposing camps?

DS: Tumi and the push up bras have been revving up Swedish audiences to diss us. But our sources tell us that they are all sleeping with one eye open...

TATV: I think they're too scared of us.

7. Are you guys nervous at all? I mean there's going to be a lot of off-the-cuff/spontaneous jamming...

DS: The Dirty Skirts laugh at danger.

TATV: Jamming? That's our daily staple. Bring it on. Hahaha…

THE VIDEOS
The Soundclash promo video

Tumi and the Volume diss The Dirty Skirts

The Dirty Skirts diss Tumi and the Volume

THE DETAILS
Doors to The Sky Rink, Carlton Centre, open at 8pm on Saturday 22 August and the clash starts at 10pm. The host for the evening will be MTV Base VJ, Sizwe Dhlomo. Tickets are available from Computicket. For more information, visit www.redbull.co.za/soundclash.

Approaching Normal - Blue October

Thu, 13 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

Nickelback, 3 Doors Down, Daughtry, Blue October – it's all the same really. Besides a slight differentiation in tone, Approaching Normal features the same, overdone rock ballads we all became accustomed to in the early 2000s.

They opened for The Rolling Stones in 2006 and have had more than 13 million views on MySpace, so clearly they're not the worst band to have come out of Texas. One just wonders when people will finally realise that cheesy rock is stale and has been for some time now.

While the album isn't a complete waste of time, someone really needs to tell the band that eyeliner is so two years ago and shouting, 'I just had to see how your new man f****s you, 'cause you've both been f*****g me' is just plain weird.

BEST TRACKS: 'Dirt Room,' 'Blue Skies,'

It's A Pleasure

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

Magnum's new Pleasure Ambassador, Eva Mendes, gets comfy on her couch as she speaks exclusively to COSMO about the finer pleasures in her life.

Are your favourite pleasures today the same things that used to please you before your huge success as an actress?
'Nothing has changed in my life as far as the pleasure factor, I still find the same things pleasurable today that I did when I was little, with my family, such as chocolate – I've always been a big chocolate girl. Playing with my dog, that is a big part of my life, it's just so fun, I love my dog and being with my family and my friends, that hasn't changed. The only thing that's changed is now I get massages (a lot of them) so that would be one of my luxurious pleasures, it's definitely something that I spend my time and money on. I'm not a big shopper, most people would think I'm a big shopper, I'm not a big shopper, I don't have 400 pairs of shoes, but I do love massages, that's my pleasure for sure.'

How do you stay centred, with your feet grounded, and not lose yourself in the fame and fortune?
'I stay centred by always connecting with my family – wherever I am in the world I connect with them, that's why I love e-mail and texting so much. I know that a lot of people are anti-technology, they feel that it's a bit informal but I feel more connected than I've ever been. I'm so privileged to be able to travel all over the world, yet it gets lonely so I'm in constant contact with my mum, my sisters, everybody, my little nieces and nephews because of e-mail and texting. That's how I stay centred by really staying close to my family. And they are brutally honest with me, which I love. I'm definitely still the little sister who gets pushed around.'

Do you have a motto? A mantra that you live by?
'My only personal motto is "Do No Harm". So when I'm in a situation and I don't know what to do, it can be something simple or something quite complicated, I always ask myself is this possibly harming myself or someone else. And whatever that answer is it makes my decision very easy because it's just about doing no harm. Whether it's killing an insect or hurting somebody else's feelings or hurting them physically, definitely "Do No Harm". I am a little a bit of a hippy inside; most people don't know that, I'm definitely a make-love-not-war girl. I don't look like your traditional hippy, but I'm a hippy at heart.'

Name three things you would associate with vacation and travelling?
'When I travel I have to have a great book, a lot of the time it's the same book that I carry with me, The Fountainhead by Ayn Rand. I love architecture and I love Ayn Rand. It's just one of those books I can pick up wherever, I don't book mark it any more, I've read it a couple of times throughout the years and I just pick a spot, any spot, any page and depending on where I am in my life I interpret it differently. I usually always have The Fountainhead, sometimes Atlas Shrugged, but mostly The Fountainhead. The other things I have with me are a really great lounge outfit, like a wrap dress, this is when a great Diane Von Furstenberg dress comes in handy, something that you can wear ever day with ease. And finally my Blackberry, I'm a bit of a workaholic and I definitely bring my Blackberry on vacation.'

Which item is a must-have in your holiday suitcase?
'I like to travel with old pictures, I have some old family photos and I have them with me on this trip and I find solace in looking at them and sharing them with other people. That's really fun for me, carrying old family photos.'

Which hotel would you suggest to a new couple for a romantic getaway?
'I love the Hotel de Russie here in Rome, it's stunning. The court yard is gorgeous and, I know this sounds funny, but the tile work and stones are really amazing. The greenery, there has a lusciousness about it and you are right in the beautiful part of Rome. So I really love the Hotel de Russie. In Tulum in Mexico, there is a place which is right on the beach and you have your own personal hut, it's probably one of the most special places in the world.'

In which place did you feel the farthest from home?
'I felt farthest from home when I was in China. But I actually like feeling far from home, it's a fun feeling to have.'

If you had a time machine, to which past event would you time-travel?
'If I had a time machine, I think I'd go back and see Leonardo da Vinci just create, that would be pretty amazing.'

Do you have a dream holiday destination?
'I have not yet been to Cairo, Egypt and I really cannot wait to go. I'm a secret Egyptologist, that's kind of a secret passion of mine.'

How many days was your longest vacation?
'My longest vacation is probably not longer than a week, ever. I don't think you need more if you do it right. I don't. I do it right, I definitely know how to relax, for sure!'

Which is the best hotel bar you have been to?
'I think I'm going to have say the Hotel de Russie in Rome, I feel really special there, really taken care of.'

From where did you send your last postcard?
'I last sent a post card from Australia to my mother about four years ago!'

EVA QUICKFIRE QUESTIONS
How many ice creams do you approximately consume in a week?
'It depends on my week. I'm known to treat myself quite often, so how many ice creams do I eat in a week? If I'm not working and I don't have a photo shoot or a film, I can eat about five or six or seven!'

What's your favourite fragrance?
'Secret Obsession, by Calvin Klein.'

What's your favourite beauty product?
'SK-II Masks, they have these wonderful little masks that come in these little envelopes. You can travel with them, you put them on and it does wonders for tired skin.'

Who is your style icon?
'Maria Callas.'

What do you always have in your bag?
'I used to always have crushed red pepper, believe it or not, in my bag! Because a lot of places don't have it and I love spicy stuff. Now I just always have a little piece of Magnum chocolate in my bag.'

For what food would tempt you enough to wake you up at night?
'Pizza, always pizza, pizza, pizza. Absolutely'

Who is your favourite designer?
'Calvin Klein, Dior, anything by John Galliano, Dolce & Gabbana, Peter Som, and the list goes on and on.'

What book is currently on your bedside table?
'Outliers.'

What does no one expect from Eva Mendes?
'I am actually a lot funnier than people think and a lot goofier than people would think. So probably a very funny crass sense of humour.'

How is a free, not working day, in the life of Eva Mendes?
'I hang out with my friends, play with my dog, listen to great music, go to see live bands, you know typical stuff. I don't cook, I can't cook, can't boil an egg, but I can eat! I respect food too much to cook!'

You can win your very own pleasurable experience by simply taking the PG Test. Eva did...

Big Boobs, No Panties

Mon, 10 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

Their first gig had them playing to 800 people during a 2am to 4am set at Chevelle in Cape Town. And if that's anything to go by, then we can expect to see great things from this female duo DJ act.

Vanessa Holliday and Margaret Westergreen have only know each other for two years, but Digital Divas have an unmistakable chemistry, that when chatting to them just before their set at a Cape Town club you'd be forgiven for thinking they've know each other their whole lives. They finish each others' sentences, laugh at each others' jokes and know each others' secrets. And just what are those secrets?

'Big boobs, no panties,' they each whisper and then fall back in a fit of infectious laughter.

But the secret to Digital Divas' success should not only be credited to their good looks, these are two pretty talented ladies – and business savvy as well.

'I think we're both very talented DJs. We play good music and I always think it's an added benefit that we're good looking divas,' Holliday says. 'But it also comes down to a lot of PR and networking and just putting a lot of energy into what goes on behind the scenes,' Westergreen finishes.

It's not easy for women to break into any male-dominated industry, but with the recent wave of female DJs hitting the club scene, Holliday and Westergreen are just a few of the ladies paving the way for their fellow deck-wrecking sisters. While the duo is having fun making inroads, they do however feel the stereotype is slowly being broken. 'Obviously there's nothing better than seeing two female DJs up on a dance floor,' says Holliday. 'We've just got to learn to work together.'

And speaking of working together, what makes their partnership work is their energy. 'It's infectious. We go all out, dress up crazy and interact with people.' says Westergreen. Holliday chips in: 'We feed off each other's energy. When [Margaret] plays one track I know when to play the other one. It's a perfect balance.'

Another feature that makes their sets so successful is that they're theme based, says Westergreen. 'We're actually the first ever girl-duo DJ-act to launch this initiative where we do theme-based parties and dress up. We go all out and we really punt the party as well before hand... But it's not only us, we encourage the crowd to dress up too.' At their last Doctors & Nurses party, ladies dressed as nurses got free entry.

The duo, who think Women's Day is still relevant in 2009 and that every day should be Women's Day, admit that they have quite a big female following when compared to their male fans. And they get just as many women asking them out as they do men. 'There was this one girl who jumped up on the DJ box and shouted "I want to be your groupie forever!",' Westergreen laughs.

'I think we definitely have more of the female backing, woman empowerment behind us,' Holliday interjects. 'Which is what we promote as well, feminine energy,' Westergreen says, finishing Holliday's sentence. 'I just think that we're naughty by nature and we want to express that. [Calling ourselves divas] is a way of expressing ourselves.'

The ladies have just shot a fantasy fairytale cover for Playground magazine and will be launching their new album before the end of the year with a national tour. But what they're really excited about is their New York City and Las Vegas Digital Diva tour. Although the final arrangements and preparations still need to be made, Holliday and Westergreen are 'super excited' about the tour and promise COSMO a follow-up interview about their trip.

They've also entered the Hed Kandi competition, where the DJ with the most number of votes gets to tour the world with the dance/club institution that Hed Kandi has become. Vote for Digital Divas here.

And the Divas' message for COSMO Girls on Women's Day? 'Just be yourself and be wild. Embrace who you are as a woman!'

Find out more about Digital Divas on their website.

Q&A with Mr July - Paul Sale

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

We know him as Mr July, but his family and friends simply call him Paul. Model Paul Sale, who posed for the July month of the 2009 COSMOPOLITAN Sexiest SA Men Calendar, took some time out of his busy schedule to chat to us briefly.

So, you're 'Mr July'. Congratulations! What was the COSMO calendar photo shoot like?
Ya, it was good! I know and have worked with Anthony, the photographer, many times. He always brings the best out of you, and is good to work with.

Do you ever get ladies referring to you as "Mr July?"
Not that much.

What's your usual response?
I usually go red in the face, and get pretty embarrassed.

Has appearing in the calendar helped your career in any way?
I have picked up a few more jobs through it, pretty good exposure.

I can imagine your mates or family must have teased you about appearing in the calendar?
Of course!!!

Would you pose for the calendar again?
Probably not, but we had really good fun, and the other guys were great.

Were you always this hot? Even at school?
Not sure, will have to ask my mom!

A lot of guys get really shy about being referred to as 'sex symbols'. What's your response to it?
I guess everyone has some form of sex appeal, and part of being shy is kind of sexy.

If a girl wanted to get your attention, how would she go about doing it?
I guess she must just be herself.

Where do you think is the best place to meet women?
If you going to meet someone special, I think there is no set place, you will meet them anywhere.

Which South African city do you think has the most beautiful women?
Cape Town

And internationally?
Cape Town

So what's next for Paul Sale?
I have just had a baby boy, so that has taken up a lot of my time. Now that he is getting little older I am going to start concentrating on my career, and have a few other business opportunities I am going to be concentrating on.

Wild Young Hearts - Noisettes

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

If you're into indie pop with a 60s twist, enjoy listening to Duffy and have heard of Fire Through the Window, read on, because the Noisettes are making a name for themselves.

Front woman and bassist, Shingai Shoniwa's quirky voice has been causing quite a stir in London – the Zimbabwean-born Amy Winehouse certainly leaves an impression. Even if you don't like poppy beats and indie claps, Shoniwa's voice is undeniably captivating. While the album itself is not the best thing on the indie pop market right now, it's sure to get you grooving.

BEST TRACKS: 'Don't Upset The Rhythm (Go Baby Go)', '24 Hours', 'Cheap Kicks'

Soul Live - Seal

Wed, 05 Aug 2009 12:00 +0200

If love good old-fashioned classics and have been a Seal fan since 1991's Crazy, do yourself a favour and give Soul Live a listen. Seal's sultry voice will take you on a musical journey as he croons Otis Redding, James Brown and Ben E. King hits.

The album cover lacks the creativity of other CDs on already heaving music store shelves, but don't judge Soul Live by its cover. This CD/DVD combo is too good for that, topping French album charts for 13 weeks. With this live album, Seal has successfully reinvented the sounds of the 60s, bringing nearly-forgotten hits back to their former glory.

BEST TRACKS: 'Kiss From a Rose,' 'Crazy,' 'Stand By Me'

A Day and Night with Zebra & Giraffe

Fri, 24 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

Thursday morning I found myself heading out to the zoo. And by the zoo I mean spending the day with SAMA-award winners, Zebra & Giraffe.

The five boys (and one half-naked model) led me to almost certain death – jumping one metre over a 20m-drop on an incomplete bridge was hardly how I expected to spend my day. But there I stood, on a dilapidated bridge, the Atlantic Ocean in front of me, Table Mountain behind me and truck drivers wolf-whistling at our naked model painted as a giraffe. There was no doubt I was on a Sean Meterlerkamp photo shoot with Zebra & Giraffe. Black skinnies, schoolboy outfits, straw hats, clown faces, giant lollipops and a giraffe. Quite an image.

Arguably one of the biggest English-speaking South African rockers since aKing, Zebra & Giraffe have exploded onto the South African music. And that became very clear when we hit Club 91 in Claremont later that evening for the first Cape Town show of their winter tour. I watched amused while throngs of hysterical girls (and guys) cheered as they pulled into the packed venue. I knew I was in for a show and watched the spectacle unfold – sweaty guys in the front row inching closer and closer to touch front-man Greg Carlin, ardent fans mouthing the lyrics word-for-word, and giggling girls gazing dreamily at guitarist Alan Shenton as he stomped around the stage, black Fender in hand.

Sweaty and red-faced, the amped band left the stage after a pumping set, one that went all too quickly. Chilling with the guys afterwards, my watch kept reminding me that I needed to be fresh-faced at my desk in a few hours. But getting up close and personal with this lot was so great – they're outrageous, they're fun and they're damn proud of it too. By 1am, the fans were only just easing into their groove and seemed quite eager to catch a glimpse of the night's rock stars. Those who managed to squeeze past the bouncer into the VIP area soon found spots next to a band member or two and made themselves comfortable. But alas, my day and night with Zebra & Giraffe had come to an end, filled with guitar riffs and drum beats.

Take a look at our photo gallery of Sean's shoot
And then watch the videos of the photo shoot and the Club 91 gig

If you'd like to win a Zebra & Giraffe hamper, consisting of a copy of their deluxe album Collected Memories and a ladies (extra-small) T-shirt, enter the competition.

Hook Me Up - The Veronicas

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

Think Kelly Clarkson in skinny jeans and leathers: commercial pop trying desperately to be indie. That pretty much sums up The Veronicas – 'angry-girl' music about ex-boyfriends, vendettas and being popular, and it's enough to make you cringe.

As is so common with girly-girl duos and groups these days, the unoriginal Veronicas spew out the same cheesy lyrics and poppy beats we've heard time and time again. While these Aussie twins appear aesthetically edgy and certainly have the right look, their sound is simply unexciting.

BEST TRACKS: 'Untouched', 'Hook Me Up'

The Sparrow And The Crow - William Fitzsimmons

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

Minus the slightly over dramatic beard, William Fitzsimmons is actually quite breathtaking, while The Sparrow and The Crow is mesmerising; a soulful and deeply meaningful album.

Even though quite a few of the tracks are a little depressing, you need to remember that Fitzsimmons made a name for himself after appearing on the Grey's Anatomy soundtrack – the most depressing show in television history.

The album's sad, but poignant, and you don't need to have broken up with your boyfriend to listen to it. Just close your eyes and take in the beauty that is The Sparrow and The Crow.

BEST TRACKS: 'If You Would Come Back Home', 'Even Now', 'We Feel Alone'

Guilty Pleasures - Ashley Tisdale

Thu, 16 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

While she might have dyed her hair darker and taken on a more mature appearance, Ashley Tisdale's music speaks louder than her looks. She's an edgy princess; Hilary Duff and Ashley Simpson reincarnated.

Not much can be said of Guilty Pleasures' first single, 'It's Alright, It's OK,' but there are a few tracks worth listening to. Even though she didn't actually write any of her tracks (which doesn't say much for her artistic integrity), she's still managed to release a commercially viable album. Her voice has made generic pop sound reasonably good. Guilty Pleasures will definitely appeal to pop lovers.

BEST TRACKS: 'Hot Mess', 'How Do You Love Someone', 'Acting Out'

Bruno

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

STARS
Sacha Baron Cohen, Gustaf Hammarsten, Clifford Banagale, Chibundu Orukwowu, Josh Meyers, Bono, Chris Martin, Elton John, Slash, Snoop Dogg and Sting

GENRE
Comedy

STORY
After a major balls-up at Milan Fashion Week, Brüno, a gay Austrian fashion reporter, is fired from his job. He decides to travel to America where he concocts plan after plan to become world famous, while searching for true love.

SEE IT BECAUSE where Borat was funny, Brüno is sensationalist.

If you're squeamish, stay away. If you're not, expect a barrage of full-frontal nudity (male and female), blasphemy and a mockery of the human sexual identity. Although there are funny moments throughout the film, there's more graphic nudity and sexually-suggestive action than anything else.

Brüno is not a movie I'd easily recommend to anyone; none of the scenes are worth remembering (except the chat show incident where Brüno tells the audience how he adopted his African baby). And I'm still not sure whether Sacha Baron Cohen was actually trying to be funny or simply highlight the ignorance of the American public.

Some People Have Real Problems - Sia

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

Australian spunk princess Sia is back with a sassy new album, Some People Have Real Problems, an album that perfectly highlights her quirky eccentricities and sincere soulfulness.

After the release of her 2004 hit 'Breathe Me', Sia's name spread across the globe, away from her role as a Zero 7 vocalist towards solo success. This album (with a bonus remix disk) features everything you expect from Sia – unusual voice, haunting lyrics and overall depressing undertones, but with a difference. People might have thought she was a one-hit wonder back in 2004, but Some People Have Real Problems showcases Sia's potential to churn out hit after hit.

Best Tracks: 'Little Black Sandals', 'Beautiful Calm Driving', 'The Girl You Lost To Cocaine'

Superglue - Ian Henderson

Thu, 09 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

If you like Jack Johnson, Jason Mraz or other such cheesy adult contemporary artists, read on. If not, move on to the next review. Ian Henderson is a talented singer/songwriter; he's got the chilled, easy-listening vibes and trite lyrics down.

Henderson recorded Superglue over a period of two years both in South Africa and abroad, with the help of musicians and producers from Paraguay, Australia, Sweden, Germany and the US. The result is a collection of musically-sound tracks with too many singer/songwriters and too little oomph. The songs are catchy, but simply not catchy enough to draw you in. However, if you're in the mood for a chilled glass of vino on a lazy Sunday afternoon, play a few Ian Henderson tracks – it will definitely help you unwind.

Best Tracks: 'The Sky Fell', 'This Angel Town', 'World Between'

Stealing Away to the US

Fri, 03 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

Her unique style has rocked stages across South Africa since 2006, but now the Durban rocker is leaving her home town and her band members for the United States. We chat to Miss Esjay Jones about her style, being a woman in the SA music industry and her plans to take Stealing Love Jones global.

Most of the photos I've seen of Stealing Love Jones are very strong images. How much say do you have with these set-ups?
'We base a lot of the Stealing Love Jones marketing images on the fashion industry. We do about four shoots a year as the seasons change and try to be ahead of the fashion trend, but I also add my own "anti-fashion" style. We always work with really great photographers, and the person we worked with the last time was a Durban girl who's got such an amazing eye for things that are different. We wanted to bring in a fashion element but still wanted to keep the elements of my personality.'

So the edgy, Rock'n Roll style is common amongst Durban girls?
'I don't know; I just try to work with people who allow me to bring my personality to the picture. A lot of photographers who have worked in the fashion industry have worked with girls who are super skinny and it's nice to work with people you are comfortable with. I like to let people know that I'm just a normal girl; I have cellulite, I have fat rolls, but it's cool. But I like to project that I'm just a normal woman.'

I find it hard to believe that you have 'fat rolls' of any kind...
[laughs] 'Well I'm really lucky with my body type. I'm 6'1 so I get to hide a lot of my 'womanly curves' in my height. But I think if I were shorter everyone would really see what I'm talking about.'

Your style really is funky and eclectic. Has this you always been the case?
'I was the biggest nerd at school! I was head of the Christian Fellowship Committee... I've kind of become everything I hated at school. At the time I was really conservative and couldn't believe that girls would get piercings and tattoos. And I guess I just had a really big wakeup call one day and I realised that there's so much more to life than a white-picket fence. I've grown into who I'm meant to be and I'm happy.'

So you'd say your style has grown over time as you matured?
'Yes definitely. I think I've gathered a lot from people around me and grown as I got to know more secular music and got to see new artists.'

Who are you biggest style inspirations?
'I love the 80s. I wish I was born in the 70s so I could've lived through the 80s. I love old school Madonna – who she is now I'm not really a fan of, but who she was in the 80s as this young girl with so much drive and ambition; she wore exactly what her personality was. I love wearing black and then adding a bright colour to it. But there's another band called the Yeah Yeah Yeahs who I also draw a lot of inspiration from.'

Do you think your style gives you a certain edge in the music industry?
'Definitely! Up until now there haven't been a lot of female-fronted bands on the South African music scene, and the women who have been out there have just been one of the boys on stage. I think I may have broke a little ground in that I wore very outrageous clothes and dressed strangely and did crazy things on stage. I think it definitely gives people something to look at and talk about. But I think at some gigs it might have put us on the back foot because I don't think South Africa is really ready for a lot of the edgy stuff. With guys like Prime Circle people feel comfortable because they're normal looking boys. Crowds don't always feel comfortable with people who are crazy-looking and have loads of makeup on, so I think it's been good and bad, but you need to be true to who you are.'

What is it like to be a woman in the South African music industry in 2009?
'It's great. But like I said before there haven't been a lot of female-fronted bands in South Africa so I think we've kind of opened things up, we're no longer just another boy in the band. It's hard work. We don't get doors opened or gear carried for us, so at times you do basically have to be one of the boys and work hard. But I guess being a band is being a band, it doesn't matter if you're a girl or a boy.'

Do you get a lot of male fans or groupies asking you out?
'Uhm, ja, I guess I do. [laughs] It's actually a really really nice thing. I don't get embarrassed by it or find it weird at all because I understand what it means to be a fan. If I had to meet Brandon Boyd from Incubus I'd probably ask him to marry me right there and then! So I understand what it feels like to be totally infatuated with that person or personality while they're on stage. Obviously you've got to keep a certain level of professionalism, but I always take time to hang out with those guys, and it's always fun. What goes on tour stays on tour...' [laughs]

You've said previously that the band is your love and you have no life without it. Really? No other love or loves in your life?
'Performing is one of those things where you're literally living on the road. And unless your husband or wife or whoever you're dating is in the band with you or is working with you on the tour then [you don't really get to see them]. As much fun as you have in a band it's actually quite a lonely existence. You're just kind of hooking up with random people every night. It's one of those things that you have to sacrifice, you know? A lot of people in bands are married, but I don't think you can have a relationship with someone and only see them once every three months. Maybe you can do long distance, but I can't do long distance. Maybe I'll die single and be happy?'

So what's new for Stealing Love Jones?
'Stealing Love Jones is going through a huge change and in a couple of weeks I leave for the United States. The band that I've had so far will now be playing with Pixie Bennett from Idols and I'll be setting up a whole new American band. I want to be based in America for six months at a time, and I'll be doing a full American tour. So it's going to be a whole new ball game; new players, new sound, maybe new image, maybe record deals... But we'll see what happens.'

Check out the website at www.stealinglovejones.com and the new album Bleed to Bloom is available in music stores.

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs

Thu, 02 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

STARS
The voices of Ray Romano, John Leguizamo, Denis Leary, Simon Pegg, Queen Latifah

GENRE
Animation

STORY
As Mannie and Ellie prepare to expand their family with the arrival of their first baby, Sid begins searching for a family of his own. The sloth's search soon lands him in trouble when he discovers a hidden world of dinosaurs and needs to be rescued (once again) by his friends.

SEE IT BECAUSE the loveable characters' dinosaur adventure proves that no matter how pregnant you are, you can always fight off Velociraptors.

Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs (like its two previous instalments) explores the bonds of the non-conventional family, but this time they're taken out of their natural habitat and are no longer at the top of the food chain. Fortunately, these new challenges (mammal-eating plants, carnivorous dinosaurs and the ominous Chasm of Death) create 94 minutes of laugh-out-loud parental blunders and dino-dodging adventure.

Innocuously funny, Ice Age: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is the perfect movie for a rainy Sunday afternoon. If you can, watch the family-friendly animation in 3D – Scrat's love affair (with his treasured nut and new female companion) is best viewed in three-dimensional magic.

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen

Wed, 01 Jul 2009 12:00 +0200

STARS
Shia LaBeouf, Megan Fox, Josh Duhamel, Tyrese Gibson, John Turturro

GENRE
Action/Adventure/Sci-fi

STORY
After working with the humans to find and destroy the evil Decepticons, the Autobots once again join forces with Sam Witwicky (Shia LaBeouf) to fight an ancient enemy who wants to destroy planet Earth.

SEE IT BECAUSE every once in a while a girl needs a little fuel-injected action.

Leave your girls at home and treat the guys to more than two hours of slick robot porn. If you're a fan of the first Transformers movie that was released two years ago, you're in for a treat. Director Michael Bay once again outdoes himself with slick metal-crunching, robot-pulverizing action sequences.

But while there's an onslaught of non-stop CGI brawls, there's not much of a plot and minimal story development. Given Revenge of the Fallen is funnier than its predecessor, the robots still manage to upstage the human cast. Megan Fox does what she does best (and it's not acting, but the guys will love it!) while Shia LaBeouf rattles off one-liners; but hey, it's not Oscar season yet so who needs a pretentious critique of the human psyche when you can enjoy well-oiled special effects?

In a Perfect World - Keri Hilson

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200

After featuring on Timbaland's hit single, 'The Way I Are', Keri Hilson's name has blown up and she's become the new it-girl. 'Energy', 'Return the Favour' and 'Scream' are still clogging radio rotations worldwide and making play lists in the hottest clubs.

With all her previous success singing on other artists' singles, In A Perfect World… should be a no-brainer success. Plus it's produced by Timbaland and features collaborations with hip hop and commercial heavyweights Lil' Wayne, Akon, Nicole Scherzinger and Kanye West. Unfortunately each track feels like one continuation of the next; one long song lacking the originality so many artists complain about.

BEST TRACKS: 'The Way I Are', 'Energy', 'Turnin Me On'

17 Again OST Various Artists

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200

While some of the tracks on the 17 Again soundtrack are there purely to be skipped, there are a few gems that require constant repetition. Santigold's 'L.E.S. Artistes' has become an alternative electro classic, while The Kooks' 'Naïve' still moves us to the dance floor belting out the lyrics all the way there.

A mixture of rocking ballads, poppy beats and old school hip hop means there's something for even the fussiest listener. If you like happy, romantic-comedy-type music, give this soundtrack a listen. There's even a tacky, reproduced, signed poster of Zac Efron – there really is nothing he can't sell.

BEST TRACKS: 'L.E.S. Artistes,' 'Naïve,' 'This Is For Real'

Just Go Lionel Richie

Thu, 18 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200

Just when you thought Lionel Richie couldn't possibly produce yet another album, he releases his thirteenth record, Just Go. Fitting title perhaps?

Whatever you say about Richie, the man's got soul. No matter how derivative his music may be, churning out the same sound album after album, he still manages to capture deserved attention. Just Go sees the multi-award-winning artist trying something new, incorporating the talent of young R&B superstar Akon as well as platinum-selling Dutch pop singer, Trijntje Oosterhuis.

Despite the fact that Just Go is not something new, it'll probably get your head bopping and your toes tapping to the music. Expect easy listening and predictable-Lionel R&B with an added touch and a modern twist.

BEST TRACKS: 'Eternity,' 'Nothing Left To Give,' 'Good Morning'

Mix The Vibe

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200

Local DJ, Clive Bean, and world renowned American producer, Teddy Douglas, wreck the decks in an album that'll have you 'getting down' to seriously solid beats.

From New York-based Quentin Harris and Chris Brann's Ananda Project to female dance vocalist Kimara Lovelace, Mix the Vibe SA provides a two-disk assorted blend of funky international house and chilled summer beats. The first compilation features Clive Bean fusing local sound with international rhythms, while Teddy Douglas from Baltimore trio, The Basement Boys, wrecks the decks in true 90s fashion on the second set.

The album is a bit repetitive and could be considered a simple rehash of popular house tracks, but if eclectic dance gets you in the mood to party the night away, have a listen.

BEST TRACKS: 'Kiss Kiss Kiss,' 'Mas Alto,' 'EP#5'

Against All Odds

Fri, 12 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200

The talk of a new album is always surrounded by excitement. And when it's aKing, ready to release their latest tracks, you expect so much more than mediocrity. It would take a phenomenally innovative second album to get aKing back on the minds of music lovers around the country. After the immense success of Dutch Courage, fans have been waiting in anticipation for the release of the second full-length album. It seems, however, that Against All Odds just isn't cutting it by comparison.

It's a well-known fact that aKing is a tight outfit. From drunken students to cynical journalists, these indie rockers have wowed South African audiences and dominated the local rock scene with their loud choruses and memorable lyrics. The latest tracks will still get the crowd reeling, the student's rowdy and the fans tapping their feet. It's not a bad album, not at all. But, for a band of aKing's stature and potential, the lack of an original sound and individual identity is disappointing.

And if the talk on the streets is anything to go by, Against All Odds is Dutch Courage on rewind. Perhaps if Against All Odds had preceded the killer debut, we might be singing a different tune.

BEST TRACKS: 'The Heart Of A Fool,' 'Against All Odds,' 'The Wishing Well'

4 Captains in a Stu

Fri, 29 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Captain Stu is the party band. Even without the llamas, these four boys from Cape Town like living large and loud. From feel-good beats to forgetful foofy slides their music is bouncy and brilliant fun. We found out they also have a soft side (even their manageress didn't know about it), and they love fun, fearless females. We asked them 20 questions that made them blush.

1. ARE YOU INTIMIDATED BY A WOMAN?
Devin: I am intimidated by women; I have a girlfriend I'm terrified of.
Jon: Very much so. They scare the crap out of me.
Ryan: Not really intimidated but I'm pretty frightened by a pissed-off woman... gad damned crazy broads!
Nick: Not anymore, I don't think. I've learnt how to communicate with them. After a stunted high school career at an all-boy's school, you come out of those places drooling and acting like a monkey just to get attention from a girl.

2. WHICH TYPES?
Devin: A girl who really knows what she wants and will do anything to get it.
Jon: What type of women or what type of fear? If you're talking about women, then most kinds. If you're talking about fear, then the most intense kind.
Ryan: The pissed-off type.
Nick: If I do ever get intimidated it would probably be by a girl who doesn't respond to my jokes or something, then I'm lost and I move on.

3. EVER DONE ANYTHING CRAZY FOR LOVE?
Devin: I once spent all the money I had at a time on a plane ticket overseas and when I arrived for my two-month stay she told me she wasn't in love with me anymore.
Jon: Um… I've said some crazy things. Don't think I've done anything too crazy. But then again I don't think I've ever been in love.
Ryan: I became life-partners (actually had to sign legal documents and stuff) with a girl I'd only been dating for a couple of months to keep her from being deported.
Nick: Sure, I once made a video for a girl I was in love with because we'd just started dating and I was going overseas for three months. In the video I did really dumb things pretending to injure myself so I would have to stay here with her, the problem was that after smashing my face with a tray and hitting myself with a hammer in the leg I realised too late that maybe this was just a plain dumb idea.

4. DEFINE LOVE.
Devin: Love, love, love, love...
Jon: I can't really. The only thing I know about it is that it avoids me almost as much as Anne Frank avoided the Nazis.
Ryan: An extreme level of acceptance of another human being.
Nick: I would define love as a commitment, a team effort, a celebration and a compromise.

5. HAVE YOU EVER SECRETLY USED FEMALE BEAUTY PRODUCTS?
Devin: Secretly, no, but when everyone knows yes.
Jon: Maybe shampoos and conditioners and stuff but nothing too hectic.
Ryan: No, I've always been completely open about it.
Nick: Not that I can recall, although I am very into Nivea for Men products. Hold on, I think I might have actually used some of my mom's moisturiser or something as a teenager with hormonal skin.

6. WHERE?
Devin: At my girlfriend's house.
Jon: On my head.
Ryan: I've waxed my legs, flat-ironed my hair, worn make-up and tried to remove blackheads with some terrible product that didn't work for shit.
Nick: On my face. And once I got really bad chafe from running I thought that maybe putting aqueous cream on my thighs would soothe it. To my horror I discovered that it instead felt like I had just rubbed molten lava onto myself.

7. DOES GIRL-ON-GIRL ACTION 'FLOAT YOUR BOAT'?
Devin: I love a bit of girl-on-girl; I think the other guys like guy-on-guy.
Jon: Yes, it does.
Ryan: If by 'boat' you mean 'penis' and by 'float' you mean 'make erect' than I'd have to say yes.
Nick: Honestly, no. I think as a teenager I thought I should be amped for it because it seemed everyone else was, but once my brain grew up and I could form my own opinions, I realised that it actually does nothing for me.

8. CAN YOU TELL IF A WOMAN'S FAKING AN ORGASM?
Devin: Yes, when after she asks 'Was it good for you? Because I was faking it.'
Jon: What's an orgasm? I'm just kidding. The answer is no, no I can't.
Ryan: Probably not, I haven't had enough practice in the field of being crap in bed.
Nick: Um, I'll have to get back to you on that one.

9. WHAT DO YOU FIRST LOOK AT WHEN FACED WITH A NAKED WOMAN?
Devin: Her face, if that's ugly then there is no chance.
Jon: Her eyes.
Ryan: Her eyes... No, definitely tits.
Nick: Well, from the many naked women I've seen in movies and FHM magazines I'd have to say that boobs are a massive draw card. If you want to throw in a nice bum and back dimples I won't complain.

10. BRAZILIAN OR BUSH?
Devin: Brazilian.
Jon: Brazilian.
Ryan: I love hairy fannies... and pagers, and VHS, and cellphones the size of lunch-boxes and dial-up modems.
Nick: Au Naturel for me, please.

11. ARE WOMEN BECOMING TOO SKINNY THESE DAYS?
Devin: I'm not a shallow person but maybe they are. If you can see a rib cage then she is probably too skinny.
Jon: Definitely. We like it when there's something to squeeze. Hahaha...
Ryan: Definitely! Hey girls, eat more! Guys like fat! It's why we dig tits so much, as opposed to seeing your spine pushing up against your belly-ring.
Nick: Most certainly. My ex-girlfriend worked for a guy's sports magazine and I got to go to an after party with all the models, and man, when you see those girls up close they are frighteningly thin, yech, what a turn off. I like my girls to have a little squish to them.

12. WHICH BITS DO YOU NOT CARE ABOUT, AT ALL?
Devin: Her nagging friends; on her, probably nothing.
Jon: Breasts.
Ryan: Shoulder blades.
Nick: Well, I don't really mind if a girl's body isn't that great if she has a killer face. Girls with beautiful eyes get me every time.

13. HOW OFTEN DO YOU TRY TO PICTURE WOMEN YOU KNOW NAKED?
Devin: It just happens; I don't do it on purpose.
Jon: Fairly often, I guess. Never really thought about it until you asked, though.
Ryan: Less often than I feel I should be... thanks for the reminder!
Nick: Not that often. I can imagine that would be kind of awkward the next time you see them in person. In your head you'd be going 'Wow, I really underestimated the size of her boobs' or something, then you'd miss what she just said to you and you'd look like an idiot.

14. WHICH PART OF A WOMAN'S BODY FEELS BEST?
Devin: Her hands on me.
Jon: Her lower back.
Ryan: The Tummy. Yes, the 'tummy' not the 'stomach'.
Nick: Lips, love handles, bum, boobs. In that order.

15. WHAT ARE YOU LIKELY TO BE CRITICAL ABOUT?
Devin: Overbite.
Jon: Physically or not? Physically I don't like it when a girl wears too much make-up when she's already beautiful. I'm talking about over-the-top make-up, though, not regular make-up. On the less physical side, I'm not a fan of girls who are too self-conscious. When I tell a girl that she's beautiful I want her to believe me and not argue with me. Rather tell me that I'm being cheesy than tell me I'm wrong.
Ryan: How much she whines.
Nick: I'd probably be critical about a girl who just didn't take care of herself or something like that, like a smelly, unwashed girl.

16. WHAT TURNS YOU OFF?
Devin: Her being too clingy and bossy.
Jon: Arrogant girls.
Ryan: Whining.
Nick: Well, I think the biggest turnoff for me would be a girl who smokes. I don't mind being friends with them obviously, but I wouldn't want to kiss a girl with smoky breath.

17. WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT DURING SEX?
Devin: Whoever I'm with.
Jon: The girl I'm with.
Ryan: Usually I think about the sex I'm busy having, either that or the weather.
Nick: I can imagine that I'd probably just be concentrating really hard on trying to make it past one minute...

18. WOULD YOU THINK LESS OF A WOMAN IF SHE SLEPT WITH YOU ON THE FIRST DATE?
Devin: No.
Jon: Not at all. If that were to happen it would be completely consensual. It's not as if I'd be trying to sleep with her and she gave in. And it works the same the other way round. If she wanted to sleep with me I wouldn't just give in. I'd do it if I wanted to.
Ryan: I'm going to say no, but I probably mean yes and just don't wanna sound sexist.
Nick: I'd like to think that I'd know a girl well enough before we went on our first date to know that it just wouldn't be on the cards from the start.

19. DO GUYS REALLY WANT WOMEN TO MAKE THE FIRST MOVE?
Devin: They do anyway, I'm really shy.
Jon: YES! I can vouch for myself especially. I hate signals. I want to know what the hell is going on.
Ryan: It would be nice once in a while, if it's not too much to ask of course.
Nick: Not a chance! The whole process of asking a girl out is like a rite of passage for any guy. The nerves, the rehearsal of the lines you're going to say, the ridiculous, uncontrollable heartbeat. All of this is half the fun. Unless she says no, in which case it sucks real bad.

20. WHAT KIND OF MOVE WOULD WORK ON YOU?
Devin: If she starts off saying, 'I hope I'm not too forward...'
Jon: Pulling into me while I'm watching a band.
Ryan: If a girl delivered an awesome, funny and cocky pickup line (the kind guys always try pull off but just end up getting slapped because of) I'd totally be hers.
Nick: Well, if a girl was really genuine and did something out of the ordinary, like some sort of awesome surprise, I think I would probably feel like a million bucks and that I'm worth something to her. But I still think I'd like to be the one to do the big romantic gesture.

I'm ok You're ok - Gonzo Republic

Sun, 24 May 2009 12:00 +0200

If sweaty bad boys throwing their weight around gets you wet, then get this album. If you need a bit more out of a sound experience, go get a drink at a local live music venue.

Gonzo Republic make some effort with the bass lines in 'Replace', and try out a plugged instrumental in 'I'm Ok You're OK' (no vocals, no explanations, just the facts) that really isn't bad, but besides that there's very little to write home about on this everyday rock compilation. It'll do if you don't listen too closely. I'm Ok You're Ok's compositions are childish and the album has no real concept beyond a bit of bleeding rhythm and bashing of the lead guitar. And they shouldn't scream – it's disturbingly discordant, not cathartic.

BEST TRACKS: 'You Know You Want It', 'Replace', 'Jennifer'

Brothers of Thunder - Brothers of Thunder

Sat, 23 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Boy band grows up? Big ballsy deal. Somebody should have told Brothers Of Thunder that it takes more than a nefarious kick drum and bleeding guitars to get a COSMO girl to pick you.

As far as full blooded commercial rock goes, Brothers of Thunder is not a bad effort, but it's a bit busy and a bit juvenile, too. Replete with dated guitar progressions and distortions, you almost feel as if you've travelled back in time to the days when rock was synonymous with long, luscious locks and body-hugging one-pieces (and we're not talking about the groupies here). Thing is, while über cool now belongs to tinny indie strumming, I suppose nothing will ever replace the fantasy of being whisked away on a snarling Harley-Davidson. Keep this album for that day…

BEST TRACKS: 'Bless My Enemies', 'Songs of Yesterday'

Waiting for the Flash - Mann Friday

Fri, 22 May 2009 12:00 +0200

This album is undeniably a compliment to the Nude Girls, but not necessarily to independent South African originality. But that's no reason not to have it on repeat.

Full of power, emotion and balance, Waiting For the Flash's softer songs are tight and its louder songs are just right for moods with more emotion than sense. Think Coldplay with bubblegum on its boots and you've about got it. Some of the instrumentals add an eclectic energy to a flow of tracks that is relatively reliable in its acoustic consistency and gentle, sensitive vocals. On the whole, it's a lot more likeable than the brash bashing of the Nude Girls.

BEST TRACKS: 'Racer', 'Sunburn & Wonder', 'Rainshine'

A Guide to SA Indie Music

Thu, 21 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Like much that comes out of our beloved country, South African indie music isn't one particular thing. At best it's a collection of sounds that might (or might not) sound like anything from The Killers to Kings of Leon, and may (or may not) be signed to a label. At worst it's a bunch of young wannabees making bad music with tinny guitars. Guidance is necessary.

Instead of squashing bands into genres they don't necessarily fit into, here's a list of talented locals whose music will suit moments in your day and whose efforts will be worth a piece of your pay-cheque.

MONDAY MORNING EASE
Ashtray Electric – their slow, steamy tones and chatty guitar will ease you into the first hour of the working week. Because they're warm and cool at once, these boys are the next big thing in SA indie.
Also try: Joshua Grierson for easy emotional elegies.

LUNCH BREAK
Blk Jks – almost impossible to describe, their version of local art rock will break the tension (or tedium) of a productive work day and fill you with an energy that lasts.
Also try: Josie Field's sing-along strength.

LAZY FRIDAY AFTERNOONS
Mama Know Nothing – you've worked hard, and you're ready for some relaxation. Let the tetchy, twisty blues/folk fusion of the Mamas invigorate you for a weekend worth talking about on Monday morning. The vocalist alone is reason enough to stop working to listen, while that violin will make you dance your office socks off.
Also try: Dear Reader for their choice tunes that'll most definitely cheer you up.

TRAFFIC JAMMING
aKING – interminably sing-along-able, the kings of melodic rock ring out across the commercial music-scape without selling out to simplified lyrics. Deep meaning and light feelings, a very necessary combination for our developing nation.
Also try: The City Bowl Mizers because they are never rude about their mothers no matter how out of hand they get.

TUNE IN TO WORK OUT
Kidofdoom – looping and leaping, Kidofdoom's celestial strings and thumps more than make up for the lack of vocal narrative, and their constant joy is the perfect companion to a demanding workout.
Also try: Mr Cat & The Jackal for jolly jaunts and instrumental ingenuity.

ENROUTE TO THE PARTY
Captain Stu – fun loving and free spirited, their mix of madness and joy will get you in the mood to dance even if the G&T's didn't manage to.
Also try: The Dirty Skirts for clean-cut fun.

ON THE WAY BACK FROM THE PARTY
Foto Na Dans – edgy, swelling and melodic, their combination of earthy and eerie will shift your mood and open your mind. It suits night skies as much as it does sleepless sunrises.
Also try: Kwani Experience for a fusion of feel-good sounds.

DURING SEX
A tossup between Pretty Blue Guns and Taxi Violence – go for the Guns if you like smoky, slow sex that gets really hot and really deep; or try the Violence if you like it a bit faster, a bit louder and a bit more energetic. Either way it's bliss.
Also try: the Sleepers for moody, melodic intensity.

A MILE HIGH
Fokofpolisiekar – being stuck between Grumpy and Stinky in a tiny airplane seat is more bearable with the kings of stinky grumpiness, the famed Fokofpolisiekar. With intense vocals and an uplifting guitar, they are the voice of modern mayhem and the first name to drop when someone says SA indie rock. They'll make your flight seem funny in comparison.
Also try: Unit.R for energetic echoes and thumpy beats.

ON A ROAD TRIP
There is no definitive sound here. Try a combination of Dear Reader's superbly moving compositions and cheerful lead melodies; Andy Lund And The Mission Men's intelligent adult contemporary with a melancholy edge; Bed On Bricks for the long stretches when you need some groovy spice; Southpaw's easy urges; Jax Panic for short bursts of energy and; Yesterday's Pupil for miles of good beats and raw vocals.

Scarlett Fever

Tue, 19 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Did you know Scarlett Johansson always checks herself in the mirror before she leaves the house to make sure nothing she's wearing is see-through? We've compiled a list of facts you might not know about Scarlett to celebrate our June cover girl and infect everyone with a little Scarlett fever.

Scarlett Johansson...

...shared make-up ideas with Samuel L Jackson when they shared a trailer during the filming of The Spirit.

...always thinks every movie she's just finished filming is her last one.

...had a huge crush on David Hasselhoff when she was younger. She thought he was a 'hunk'.

...doesn't understand why men have nipples.

...manicures her own nails because she doesn't think anybody else can do them properly.

...has admitted to having 'fat days' and hates the pressures Hollywood places on her and other young women to be skinny.

...thinks she has cute feet.

...doesn't have much hope for actors who are in monogamous relationships; always being away from each other and doing sexy scenes with your colleagues is tricky when dating.

...has her mother as her manager.

...is pro-choice.

...would like to swop places with the President of the United States for a day.

...cleans her hotel room before the laundry ladies make their rounds.

...has a 'thing' for older men. Benicio Del Toro, who she dated in 2003, was 17 years older than her.

...thinks people want to believe Tom Cruise is a good actor because he's 'gorgeous'.

...threatened to sue US Weekly magazine for insinuating she had cosmetic surgery on her nose.

...is terrified of cockroaches – she once woke up with one on her face.

...needs to have her wisdom teeth removed, but she's refused.

...is left-handed, and a natural red-head.

...loves London because she doesn't get followed around by as many paparazzi.

...gets tested for HIV twice a year. Although she's not promiscuous, she thinks it's 'disgusting behaviour' when people don't get tested.

...walked into someone else's apartment (in her building) once when she was drunk.

...at a time was only approached by balding obese men because they younger, hotter guys were intimidated by her.

...is a Prada 'junkie' and a huge fan of the Jerry Springer Show.

...says she is 'all about fashion, cheese burgers and bright, red lipstick'.

Rock Star Love

Thu, 14 May 2009 12:00 +0200

COSMO chats to the front man, Jon Savage, about love on the road and working with your partner.

Cassette is cool. They have a SAMA for Best Rock Album, have played with Pink, Evanescence and Eagle-Eye Cherry, and have worked with local heroes Mahotella Queens, Zubz and Vusi Mahlasela. Nelson Mandela himself asks for them from time to time, when they aren’t too busy touring Europe or making mini tsunami waves as the first SA band to tour Japan (which they did recently).

Having cut a world class album that sounds as good as it looks, Cassette are touring from town to town, bringing textured pop rock and a little bit of mystique to even the most obscure corners of South Africa. In addition to heavy pressure and the highlights of showbiz, the front man and lead lady are an item. We got down to the nitty-gritty with Jon about working with his lead lady, Jane Breetzke, and what it takes to make it as a travelling minstrel.

MIXING WORK AND ROMANCE

How did you and Jane meet?
We were both at Rhodes University. This crazy friend of ours, Zingi, who truly believed that he was Michael Jackson, put on this big show called the Zingi Dream Experience (this is actually true, believe it or not). He needed a band to help him and just went out hunting musicians. Somehow he roped both Jane and I in to do this crazy venture and we became friends quickly by asking each other ‘What the hell are we doing here?’ a lot.

When did you know there was a spark?
We were very close friends for many years and both moved to Cape Town. Then when I got offered a record deal in Johannesburg years later, I just went knocking on Jane’s door and told her that I was moving and asked her if she wanted to come with. She just said OK there and then. We packed our cars and moved to Johannesburg. A few months later, we were together.

Who made the first move?
There was a hotel room in Bloemfontein, two bottles of wine and an Elvis Costello album. That’s all I’ll say!

When did you decide to mix work and romance?
The band started at the same time as the romance so it has always been intertwined. Obviously it can be very stressful and often unbearably complicated, but we have a big love for each other so we make it work.

Is there anything you regret about this decision?
It’s a very hard thing for both of us to live with. Touring is very hard on Jane and I hate to see her upset. Sometimes an issue in the band becomes a full-blown relationship issue and can linger for months. It sometimes causes tension in the band as well because it must always seem like Jane and I have discussed a topic ad nauseum before even presenting it the band. I’d say one of the hardest things is you can never come home and tell the person you love about your hard day! You’ve both been through it and no one wants to talk about it for one more second. But at the same time, a good show can be a hugely rewarding experience and when we both go through it together it makes us happy that we can share it.

Is there anything you would like to change about it?
I wish it were humanly possible to separate the band from our relationship and still keep both in tact. Even though it is not an ideal situation, we make it work.

On the whole, do romantic relationships at work work?
I think it makes you much stronger! If a relationship can actually survive through work then it can survive anything!

What makes or breaks a romance with a workmate?
Personally I think the lack of space that working with a loved one creates is very destructive and can easily break a good thing up. The hard thing is to learn to give each other space at home and even at work, but it is crucial – possibly even central – to making it work. It’s still something we constantly work on and we have been at it for years.

Does being involved with a workmate enhance your productivity and creativity?
With us, even though things can get tense and overly-emotional when we are working on a project such as song writing, it also pushes both of us to reach deeper and to be better. There are songs, like ‘Back Up Plan’ on our new album that is a genuine collaboration between me and Jane and I think that song really stands out as something special because of that. We are still learning to work together, but when we get it right, it really, really works.

Does knowing each other intimately ever compromise your contracts? Like when you both call in sick because you want to spend the day in bed…
Obviously I can’t comment on that for legal reasons! Hahaha!

Does being colleagues ever compromise your relationship?
I think that even when you try and set boundaries about these sorts of things, being in a band invades all aspects of your life so, yes. When we go out for a romantic supper we try our hardest not to talk about the band, but it’s not easy.

How does life on the road (late nights and hard drugs) affect your relationship?
Jane is very sensitive to the touring aspect and it can be extremely gruelling for both of us. If we go out on the road and party every night our relationship is going to take serious strain. In addition it already takes a lot of strain just being in the bands space the entire time and our relationship takes a knock because there is no place or time to find space to just be together. After a long tour, we try and spend time reconnecting.

Does it help that you share the same lifestyle – or is it harder to have a relationship with a non-travelling, non-music making soul?
I’d say it’s probably 50/50.

REALITY: THIS IS NOT A DAY JOB

Is it true that independent musicians work 24/7?
False. I work 29 hours a day! It’s hard work I tell you. It is definitely a full time job.

How’s the job satisfaction when your office is seedy bars and swish corporate gigs?
It can be the greatest and it can be the worst. And it can be everything in between.

How do you keep your feet on the ground when you have a mobile office?
With great difficulty. It’s very easy to lose the plot when you are out on the road for long periods of time.

How do you manage time if so much of it is spent travelling and promoting?
I’m still learning!

The Adventures of - Captain Stu

Mon, 11 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Jazzy and rootsy and rocky, The Adventures Of Captain Stu sizzles with party vibes.

Its charm is that its restlessness does have moments of quiet compliments of that sexy saxophone, but it's never long before the ballsy vocals and dirty drums jump in and get you dancing. Under the influence of a band that used to include some llamas (what is it with all these name changes in SA music?) love and life look like one big adventure. Fun is funny again, too, with their tight treatment of funk and pop – there's never a dull (or serious) moment on the album. Best thing is, like a good lover, it doesn't let you go till it stops.

BEST TRACKS: 'Blinding Lights', 'Still The Same', 'Value Systems'

Collected Memories - Zebra & Giraffe

Sun, 10 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Greg is giving SA electro pop its name back. Oh, wait, it didn't have a name, did it? Ok then, Greg is giving SA electro pop its name.

This danceable mix of textured samples and raw pop-rock is clean and comfortable in its own skin and deliciously dark at times. Despite an African name, the sound is international and it takes no prisoners as Carlin unwraps the shadowy-side of love whilst seducing you to sing along to his bright, infectious beats and brilliant melodies.

Collected Memories covers a range of emotions, all powerful and all wrapped up in the right amount of noise and silence. It's alluring without being pretty and erotic without being saucy, and it's this combination that makes it sexy. Definitely iPod material. This edition also carries a DVD of exclusive behind the scenes footage and interviews.

BEST TRACKS: 'The Knife', 'Arm Yourself', 'Fight! Fight! Fight!'

Free - Kate Ryan

Sat, 09 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Yet another well produced pop album, Free is far from it. If you like formulaic dance beats that are about six years out of date, a more than ok (but not much more) vocalist singing in French and English and totally clichéd melodies, you'll like this.

Indifferent to the availability of talent and creativity in a global market, this product is kitsch and clean, generic and upbeat and any nine-year-old with taste will turn her nose up at it. The better tracks are the ones you probably can't understand.

BEST TRACKS: 'Voyage Voyage', 'Ella Elle l’a', 'Tout Première Fois'

Afro Pop-Sicle

Fri, 08 May 2009 12:00 +0200

Having entertained some of the country's most renowned distinguished celebrities, business people and politicians, CODA was once billed as the most in-demand band in Cape Town.

Although they're a unique collection of performers and sounds, when we sat down with them, what emerge was a bit of a cookie cutter interview...

You've been compared to Goldfish and Freshlyground. But what makes your music or your band different?
We are huge fans of both groups. However, we do like to consider ourselves a unique act. For one thing there are more girls in CODA (wink) so you've got both eye-candy and ear-candy. CODA is the one band that simply 'has it all' – with a stylish combination of instruments (electrifying strings, cool jazz sax and hot house DJ), a sensational lead vocalist and some seriously 'party igniting' songs, we believe there's something for everyone.

'Fusion music' is very popular these days, but it can easily sound like a mixed breakfast of refried beans. How do you keep your advantage over other bands doing the same thing?
For one thing the ensemble is totally original. There isn't another group with quite the same line-up or resultant combination of influences. It's less about showcasing the different elements than coming up with a sound that is fresh and different.

Where would you like to take your music?
Where to start? We have big dreams! The amazing response from international audiences has inspired us to approach music festivals across the globe this year, so watch this space… We are very proudly South African and aim to be musical ambassadors for our country.

What's your favourite setting to play in?
The ultimate performance is where we are touching the audience in some way through our music. We recently performed in Gugulethu for the Amy Biehl Foundation Jazz Festival. It was incredible to feel the same enjoyment from a very diverse crowd made up of local township residents, children and an international group from Boston.

Any James Bond venues you've played in? Exotic islands, swish hotels...
We performed a New Year's gig in the Seychelles a couple of years ago that was wonderful. Last year we spent three weeks performing in Dubai and lived the good life. I'm sure we spotted James yachting up the Dubai Creek…

Do women with instruments get taken more seriously than women behind the decks?
Audiences love the sax, electric violin and electric cello – we don't think many people get to see this combination of instruments so we do get a lot of attention and compliments for our playing. But we do think our DJ sisters have tons of clout!

Are you popular with the younger crowds?
Definitely – our music has huge appeal with the youth. Yolanda, our lead vocalist, is an inspiring role model. That aside, CODA's music gets everyone moving!

Who is your typical fan?
A mover-shaker who loves SA!

You're four ladies and one guy. Any interesting dynamics or stories? (Work, love, play)
Secretly we all think Nick loves being the only boy. He has no competition on stage and although he occasionally has to carry the gear, he is constantly in the limelight. He's been known to step in and protect his CODA girls when fans get too eager…

What's your take on romances with colleagues?
We’re all in very happy long-term relationships outside of work so the only romantic spark on stage is the music.

Can you safely get involved with someone you work with?
Sure – look at Brad and Angelina.

You're a stylish bunch – share some of your favourite beauty tips?
Moisturize and accessorize!

Do you have a stylist or do you guys dress yourselves?
Yolanda, our vocalist, is also CODA's stylist and she ensures that we always look fabulous (the woman has no mercy – stunning heels win over sore feet every time!). Yolanda has her own range of gorgeous clothes and accessories called Y'awa Creations.

Any style tips?
Eye-catching accessories with great footwear can rescue any situation.

Do the ladies wear stage makeup or regular makeup?
Regular. We're all for a glamorous image that is more fashion-shoot than circus.

If you've only got ten minutes to do your hair, what do you recommend?
A straightening iron, except for Yolanda who is magnificently bald!

RELATED LINKS
- We review their album, African Renaissance

Who do You Trust - Cassette

Tue, 28 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

It took them some time, but the boys and girl in Cassette have proven that the pronunciations of their PR team are true with this concept album. Who Do You Trust is a rocking, rolling journey of sound and sentiment themed around betrayal and self realization.

While its overall sound is sometimes a tribute to other dandy bands, the thematic approach and its result are all their own. Being equally theatrical and entertaining, you can sit and listen to Who Do You Trust's tales track by track or use it to perk up your party. Bumper to bumper with stories within stories, it unfolds like a film, from a classical intro to the beatsy title track to the breathy 'Backup Plan'. With balanced male and female vocal harmonies, it swirls around using the best of rock rhythms and pop stops and starts. For once, a band has tastefully integrated samples from Mahlasela instead of just borrowing gratuitously from his brilliance and stature.

Tempered, testy, tasty. Buy it, but it, buy it.

BEST TRACKS: 'Who Do You Trust', 'The Backup Plan', 'Break My Heart' (feat. Vusi Mahlasela)

Replace Why With Funny - Dear Reader

Mon, 27 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

Dear Reader is light and dark without ever being heavy. And Replace Why With Funny is delightful, dangerously deceptive and perfect for sunny days and stormy ones alike, which is rare for popular music.

The acoustic folk sounds are driven by Cherilyn's intelligent and simple poetry. The album unfolds as an aural and semantic tale of love, loss, longing and living beyond it to become the adult that you are. Juggling balanced compositions, piano detail and violins strings, the songs are sweet, sometimes stark, sometimes dark, sometimes decorative and always deep but never heavy. See if you don't fall in love with the irresistibly adorable voice of Macneil.

BEST TRACKS: 'Dearheart', 'Bend', 'Way of the World'

Zac and Miri Make a Porno

Sun, 26 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

THE STORY
On the eve of their 10-year high school reunion, housemates and lifelong friends Zac and Miri are first class underachievers working in blue collar jobs and drowning in unpaid bills. When their water, lights and furnace are turned off, they hit rock bottom, burn the bills, and have to find a way to make money, fast. In a flash of bad luck and good timing, Miri finds herself inadvertently broadcast on the Internet in her (ugliest) underwear. With this and inspiration after meeting Miri’s high school crush and his porn star boyfriend, they take their cue to do the dirty for money.

SEE IT BECAUSE it’s hysterically funny (and really romantic, despite its title).

Zac and Miri's ordinary characters are completely charming in their disarmingly down-to-earth approach to everyday frustrations and realisations such as debt and love. They’re so well cast in their almost-goodlookingness that you’re able to relate, criticise and admire them all at once (which is a rare pleasure on the big screen).

Also, Zac and Miri sheds some light-hearted insights on the so-called sordid pastimes of the porn industry and reveals the reality behind the faux fur and faked orgasms. Not a flick for conservative moms and daughters, though.

White Wedding

Sat, 25 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

THE STORY
Elvis (Kenneth Nkosi) is getting married, but to do that he has to get from Johannesburg via somewhere in the Drakensburg to Cape Town. While his beautiful bride waits in vain for him, all sorts of mishaps threaten the very celebration they are most excited about. Fights with his best friend, confrontations with conservative farmers and an odd (if pretty) foreigner all seem set to destroy his big day. What’s more, his fiancé’s previous boyfriend is hovering around her like a fly and flashing his cash like a pimp.

SEE IT BECAUSE as the title suggests, it pays homage to tradition without being staid and looks at contemporary urban cross-culturalism without being clichéd.

But while we have incredible actors in this country, the performances in White Wedding are, for the most part, stunted and awkward. However, an ambling, interesting narrative, witty script and strong, solid message redeem it from the director’s oversights. It's great to see the 'new' South Africa on the big screen, even if the garage attendant was too smartly dressed and the backward town was set in the wrong part of the country.

Just Jenna

Fri, 24 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

Jet-setting Jenna Peterson is this month's cover girl.

Had it ever been a dream to get into the modelling industry. What would've been the alternative?
I did dream of it when I was a little girl. I used to look at magazine covers and dream of it being me one day. But I no other specific plans, I had modelling on my mind since the age of 15.

Are there any major contrasts between the international modelling scene and the South African one? Is the industry as cutthroat here as it out there?
The market is way bigger out there; more opportunities and harder to get into. There are a lot of models in South Africa who don't want to travel, but they still want to be 'famous'. And there's a lot of magazines in South Africa who offer them opportunities to appear on their covers and in the centre folds, but that's quick fame and can do your name more damage in the future than doing things the hard way. If things should work for you, they will at some point.

We heard that before you started modelling you used to plant vegetables with your brother and sell them. Seriously? Do you still garden?
Hahaha. I was about nine-years-old when I helped him plant vegetables and probably only did it for a month until I found a new Barbie or something. I wasn't crazy about gardening back them, I just liked to see them grow. Now I have my own house in Stellenbosch and I can't stop gardening. Have my own organic vegetables and herb garden. I love to cook and don't have to run to the store all the time.

Has being featured twice in Sports Illustrated generated a lot of male fan mail. Have you ever received any weird or very funny packages or messages?
I didn't get much from Sports Illustrated, but I get a lot from Hunkemoller. I get a lot of love poems from guys and they beg me to accept them as friends on Facebook, but I don't want to reach the 3 000 friend mark just to make myself feel more special or popular. The agency also fields a lot of stuff for me that I'm unaware of.

We've been told you also love camping and African Safaris. What's your best local destination?
I love to camp a beach along the West Coast near Lamberts Bay and I like Cederberge, but I prefer camping in Botswana. It's my favourite country.

What is your favourite scent?
Lemongrass, the air after a summer rain and the smell of the bushveld.

For more on Jenna, turn to pg.92 of the May 2009 issue of COSMOPOLITAN magazine.

Ryan Leslie - Ryan Leslie

Fri, 17 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

As much as we all love slow, sexy and easy, something’s gotta give if Ryan Leslie’s debut album is to live up to its covers' claims as 'highly anticipated'.

Having learnt nothing from the greats, Ryan has made an album that sounds like every other R&B album. It’s easy listening that has little personality and a penchant for making you think the same song is on loop. Play it for a romantic background hum, but don’t expect it to impress anyone.

BEST TRACKS: 'Diamond Girl', 'Just Right', 'Out Of The Blue'

Die Heuwels Fantastie - Die Heuwels Fantasties

Thu, 16 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

You’re gifted with a star-studded album packed with catchy alternative electro beats, that's what happens. But it's not ‘The Dance’ and it's not Fokofpolisiekar either. This band is taking Afrikaans music in a different direction altogether.

Esteemed SA rockers (and now self-proclaimed pop stars) Hunter Kennedy, Pierre Greeff and Johnny de Ridder have released their first full-length album, which includes the chart topping hit ‘Vinger Alleen.’ Interesting collaborations with Fokofpolisiekar’s Francois van Coke, aKing front man Laudo Liebenberg and Die Antwoord’s Jack Parow break any potential monotony. This is head-bopping, toe-tapping music, filled with melodious, carefree tracks suitable for a night on the town or a lazy Sunday afternoon.

If anything, Die Heuwel's Fantasties is more proof that local music is on an unstoppable rise to the top.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Vinger Alleen,’ ‘Oorlewing 101,’ ‘Nare Kaskenades’

Testimony Vol.2 - India Arie

Wed, 15 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

We all remember nodding our heads and swaying our hips to India Arie’s first big hit, ‘Video’ in 2001. Four albums later, this songstress is still as soulful as she was at the start of her career. While Testimony: Vol. 2, Love and Politics hasn’t sold quite as many copies as her previous releases, this album's about more than record sales and Billboard charts – it's about love and politics.

India is a woman on a mission; her lyrics deal with 'unglamorous' issues such as cancer, Aids and poverty, but don’t for a minute think this album's all doom and gloom. She sings of transformation, optimism and being in love. India manages to combine her jazzy pop beats with gospel soul to create an all-round world music feel. If you take a fancy to music with a message, perhaps you should give this testimony a listen.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Yellow’, ‘River Rise’, ‘Chocolate High’

Irish Son

Tue, 14 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

LC: How are you enjoying Cape Town so far?
GL: It’s great. We had a lot of fun the day we arrived. We probably had a bit too much fun the day we arrived, actually!

LC: As you do…
GL: We’re here for a week so we’ll be doing a bunch of things. We’re going to do some cage diving, and get in some sightseeing and downtime. It’s not often we get the time to relax, really. We’ve got gigs on Friday and Saturday so we only have two days off, but it’ll feel like more.

LC: I hear you’re playing at the opening ceremony of the Indian Premier League [in Cape Town]?
GL: Yeah, that’s on Saturday.

LC: So it was a sudden ‘add-on’ to the tour?
GL: They asked us because, you know… we’re here. I don’t think they would have flown us over particularly for it… but I’m a hell of a cricket fan, so we’ll enjoy it.

LC: Who are you supporting?
GL: Probably the [Deccan] Chargers, because we met them on the plane – and Adam Gilchrist, who we also met, is really nice. I know they didn’t have the best season last year – hopefully this year….

LC: And if you had to choose between the South African and Australian cricket side, which would you choose?
GL: I always say ‘when in Rome’, so I’m going for South Africa. I’m a big fan of Jacques Kallis, actually. I just saw him get out for 17 today [in the ODI against Australia in Port Elizabeth], but he’s a phenomenal cricketer.

LC: Back to the tour now – how was the Johannesburg gig?
GL: It was unbelievable. The crowd was insane! Really, one of the best crowds we’ve played to outside of Ireland, and that’s the highest compliment, because the Irish crowds are the best in the world. The crowds in Cork or Dublin or wherever we are in Ireland are just deafening. Johannesburg was close to that and just a lot of fun.

LC: And it was the first time you shared the stage with Oasis?
GL: The very first time, yeah. After all these years. We formed at the same time as they did, so we’ve been around more or less in the same era. Their path has been a bit more ‘stellar’, though. [Laughs]

LC: What are the Gallagher brothers like?
GL: They are lovely. Really nice. They probably wouldn’t thank me for saying that… because they’re trying not to be! [Laughing] Yeah, but they were really, really polite; and very generous with their compliments and their time. Just really nice people.

LC: I imagine there are a few South African bands saying the same thing about Snow Patrol right now.
GL: We actually met some of them [at the Coca-Cola Zero Fest in Johannesburg], and we’re planning to get to the festival a bit earlier to see a few more, and get a better idea of what they sound like. We didn’t get to the previous concert in time to hear much. We just sat with the bands afterwards, had a few drinks with them.

LC: What are your thoughts on South Africa in general? Is it what you expected it to be?
GL: Absolutely not!

LC: What were you expecting?
GL: I don’t know. This hotel [the Mount Nelson in Cape Town] is not exactly the best impression of Africa. But I am really interested in seeing some ‘real’ Africa. I’ve been to Uganda before but I’m interested in seeing the real Johannesburg, the real Cape Town, the real South Africa. Hopefully in the next few days we’ll get a better impression of what it’s like.

LC: You are in one of the most beautiful cities in the world, so…
GL: And we’re shooting a video here on Wednesday, which should be good!

LC: How has the rest of the ‘Taking Back the Cities’ tour been? You were in Australia recently?
GL: We were in Australia for three weeks, and their crowds were pretty good as well.

LC: You’ve been there before?
GL: Yeah, many times. And it was a lot of fun. A lot of, er… drinking. [Laughs]

LC: How does Australian beer compare to South African beer then?
GL: We’ve had a few Castles and some Hansa here. Hansa was the name of the studio we recorded the album in, in Berlin, so it was a nice little karmic thing there.

LC: Have you had any weird experiences on this tour? Any bizarre groupie stuff?
GL: We don’t really do the groupie thing. And the girls who come to the shows are, for the most part, there for the music. [Laughs] I mean, Paul is gorgeous and so is Nathan, but I can’t imagine that the girls’ real interest in us is as… objects.

LC: You’re not ‘sex symbols’ then?
GL: No! I reckon the people who come to our shows are split about 50/50, guys and girls. And we’ve always treated women with the utmost respect. Sure, back when I was 18 and we were in a band, it was a different story; but everybody makes mistakes. Then you get into your 20s and you mature a little bit, and you realise that the important thing is the music.

LC: Do you get a lot of paparazzi hounding you back home?
GL: No, not at all. They leave us alone. We never get photographed leaving a place.

LC: So they have a lot of respect for you?
GL: It’s not even about respect. We don’t even go to those clubs. We avoid that kind of party and celebrity scene.

LC: Do you just hang out with your close friends and family?
GL: Yeah – and a lot of our friends are in bands as well. We all just tend to fly under the radar. And we go to places where we know we can get silly and not land up in the papers the next day.

LC: How is A Hundred Million Suns doing?
GL: It’s doing well! I mean, not as well as Eyes Open did, but then it doesn’t have 'Chasing Cars' on it. That was just one of those anomalies that took the world by storm. We never really expected it. We thought it was going to be a hit, but we didn’t expect the size of the hit. It was ubiquitous really – and that’s a word we thought we would never associate with our success. So the latest album brings back a sense of reality. It’s done well, sold over a million copies around the world so far, and that’s not to be sniffed at.

LC: What is the main influence for the songs on this album? It seems to be a bit more cheerful.
GL: Filling in the gaps, I think. After all those heartbreaks and break-ups from the previous albums, I just wanted to assure people that there were good times too.

LC: Is this album all about ‘lurve’ then?
GL: It’s more about love, yeah. There’s still darkness and shadows in it, as there should be. Love, even when it’s going well, isn’t always perfect, is it? But it’s much more positive than the previous albums… although that wouldn’t be hard.

LC: Well, no – but I think some of the greatest love songs come from angst.
GL: For sure. I just wanted to have an album that is more positive, and it took me a while to get to this point.

LC: Does that mean you’re in love?
GL: No.

LC: Just checking, because I have single friends who might be interested to know that. Do you have plans to go back into the studio any time soon?
GL: We’re doing a couple of projects with a few other bands, and I don’t last very long without these guys [Snow Patrol] even when we’re not on tour. Yeah, a couple of other albums are going to be released soon. We’ll probably go in and record in March/April next year. We’re not rushing to go back to the studio. We’re on tour until Christmas so there’s no point in planning anything new until then.

LC: I read that you had to sell off your personal CD collection at one stage to pay the rent. Which CD would have been the most difficult for you to get rid of?
GL: The things that were sort of ‘cherishable’ for me I tried to leave until the last minute. I’ve since bought back everything, and loads more! It’s the only thing I spend my money on.

LC: And who would have been your biggest musical influence? Or has that changed as your career changed?
GL: I guess Kurt Cobain. Nirvana, really. I first wanted to play guitar after hearing AC/DC live when I was 13. But it was actually Kurt Cobain who gave me direction. He was proof that you didn’t have to be a virtuoso. Nirvana were all about the heart, not the head, and that’s basically been our motto ever since – to play from the heart.

LC: Would you say they influenced your very distinctive sound?
GL: Yes. You can’t really hear Nirvana in our recent records, but in our earlier stuff you can certainly hear a more ‘American’ alternative music. When we were making the records, Brit pop was a big deal in the UK, and bands like Blur and Oasis were having their heyday. Okay, so Oasis never really stopped having their heyday, but apart from them we weren’t really into those bands. We looked towards America for our influences, and we found it. I don’t think we sound like any particular ‘country’. I don’t think we sound particularly Irish, but I think we’ve come so far down the line now that we’ve created our own sound.

LC: So… how does a girl get a song written about her?
GL: Ha ha ha ha ha ha ha!

LC: All the COSMO girls want to know!
GL: You have to break my heart! [Laughs] No, most of the songs I’ve written are sort of plaintive and more tender – and the break-ups were my fault really! That’s the reason I wrote the songs, to try to work things out in my head. What went wrong and why I’m an idiot sometimes.

LC: So they’re cathartic?
GL: Yeah, but I’m not that person any more – which is why we changed this album and changed tack. I don’t approach relationships the way I used to. I don’t have the same fear as I used to. I used to fear being with someone, and then I would fear losing someone – and that’s the way it used to be. Now I’m a lot more balanced. Although if you see me at 10 o’clock tonight you might not think so!

LC: If you could lie anywhere in the world with someone special, where would it be?
GL: There is a cliff just beside Ballydavid in County Kerry in Ireland, just around the corner from the wonderfully named Dingle Bay, where we wrote Eyes Open. The cliff overlooks these three rocks that jut out of the water – they’re called the Three Sisters. In my head, that’s my happy place.

LC: If you could invite anyone, past or present, over for dinner, who would it be?
GL: It would be a toss-up between Noam Chomsky and Natalie Portman. [Laughs]

LC: At least you’re honest! What’s the most bizarre question you’ve ever been asked by a journalist? Other than that one, of course!
GL: Well, there was this one interview with all these questions about songs and breaking people’s hearts – by accident most of the time [laughs] – and then the next question was ‘So are you single?’ And I was, like, why would you want to know that, after what we’ve been talking about the whole time???

LC: Last question. How do you guys get on as a group? Do you fight at all, or do you just have a good laugh?
GL: We always laugh. We’re like brothers. There’s a big difference, I find, between bands that got together through adverts in the paper and those that got together through natural friendships. I think it’s pretty obvious to work out which are friends and which are business partners.
Related:

* Carla Calitz went to the star-studded press conference

The Coke Fest Press Conference

Mon, 13 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

5FM DJ Gareth Cliff kicked off the 2009 Coca-Cola Zero Fest press conference at the Radisson Hotel in Sandton by poking fun at the ‘fiery Gallagher brothers’ from Brit super-group Oasis. ‘They haven’t had a fallout as yet but they did take separate flights, separate cars and separate lifts on the way to this conference,’ he joked, referring to the siblings’ much-publicised, volatile relationship. He then mock-cautioned the audience to turn off their cellphones or face the possibility of having a microphone thrown at them by oldest Gallagher sibling, Noel.

Of course, Gareth made mention of 'unstable rock stars' from the bands Bullet For My Valentine and Red Jumpsuit Apparatus who cancelled their appearances at the last minute much to the dismay and outrage of their local fans and organizers, Big Concerts. Attie van Wyk, Big Concerts’ managing director, admitted they’d been ‘devastated’ when these bands had cancelled a week before the fest, especially considering they’d spent a year approaching 37 international artists to star at the fest.

‘Bullet For My Valentine used the excuse that they hadn’t completed their new album so we told them that Metallica had been in the same boat when they’d come to play in SA but that hadn’t stopped them from climbing on a plane and living up to their contractual obligations,’ van Wyk said.

Thankfully, though, ticket sales hadn’t been adversely affected by these cancellations as thousands of concertgoers were expected at Riversands Farm in Fourways, Johannesburg, and at Lourensford Wine Estate in Somerset West, Western Cape. Also, Panic At the Disco, Snow Patrol and Oasis had agreed to play slightly longer sets to make up for the missing bands, van Wyk added.

Next up on stage at the conference were local bands Zebra & Giraffe, Cassette, One Day Remains and Evolver, who all agreed they were pumped to be sharing the stage with these top international acts.

Las Vegas rockers Panic At The Disco were met with much applause when they took the stage. When asked what they’d been doing since they arrived the day before, guitarist and lyricist Ryan Ross said they’d been ‘drinking wine, eating seafood and sleeping’.

‘Yeah, it took us about two weeks to get here,’ quipped Jon Walker. Asked about where they got their inspiration for their songs from, they replied that it came from movies, books, people being creative and ‘whatever makes you think… or not’. One journalist wanted to know what their favourite SA music was and, typically, Ross said he’d listened to Paul Simon’s Graceland a lot and really loved Ladysmith Mambazo.

Snow Patrol’s frontman Gary Lightbody seemed rather taken aback by the enthusiastic applause they got when his band trooped onto the stage, and sincerely thanked the media for the ‘great reception’ in his lovely, lilting Irish accent. There wasn’t a journalist in the room who wasn’t immediately taken in by the frontman’s friendly, engaging and sincere personality.

When asked if their show the following day was going to be moody or more upbeat, Lightbody promised a ‘bipolar show'. 'We may all cry together or maybe three of us will be happy while three of us are sad,’ he joked. When asked how they felt about their hit single 'Run' being ‘hijacked’ by Leona Lewis, Lightbody diplomatically answered, ‘She’s got a brilliant voice and she made the song her own. When a song gets that popular everyone is allowed to do with it what they please.’ When asked about what they thought of Oasis, Lightbody quipped, ‘They’re the funniest band in the world. Noel certainly has a way with words and doesn’t care who he offends. He’s a whirlwind. We’re still very polite.’ Asked about touring with U2, Lightbody admitted, ‘It was an incredible experience and we learnt from the masters.’ In fact, U2 has invited them to tour with the band again this year. ‘The superstars you see onstage aren’t who they are backstage – they don’t swan around,’ added Lightbody.

Only Oasis guitarist Noel Gallagher strode onto the stage sporting his trademark sunglasses, but he certainly stole the show with his sharp replies and irreverent wit. (Liam was next door being interviewed for 5FM.) Contrary to expectations, the older sibling wasn’t gruff, monosyllabic or even vaguely aggressive – in fact, he had the room in stitches from the very start and was decidedly generous even asking one of the festival’s Superfans to accompany the band the following day in singing 'Wonderwall' and even offering to answer more questions. He was asked what the inspiration was for 'Wonderwall'.

‘It was such a long time ago,’ he admitted. ‘I could be one of those rock stars and bullshit you but I’m not going to. I have absolutely no idea. We may have nicked some of the lyrics… I was probably drunk at the time.’

When asked which of their albums was the most fun to make, he had the crowd giggling when he answered, ‘Be Here Now was the most fun, which is why it sounds the worst.’ He proclaimed that Oasis ranked seventh in the Top 10 British bands of all time with the bands’ mightiest influence, The Beatles, in the top spot – and there isn’t anyone who would dare contest his proclamation.

When asked by Gareth Cliff why he’d got into music, Gallagher replied that it wasn’t to ‘get the girls’, the reason the Sex Pistols got into music, he said.

‘I came from a working class background where you faced unemployment or joining a street gang. I certainly didn’t get into music for the art – I wanted to get rich,’ he stated matter-of-factly.

Gallagher finished the press conference off with some sage advice on how to survive your family and sibling tension. ‘Ignore everything you say to each other at all times and communicate through the media,’ he quipped and once again had his rapt audience giggling appreciatively.

Related

* Read our interview with Gary Lightbody

Double Sama Mama

Thu, 09 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

She's a double SAMA winner, a single mother and a diva in her own right. Read the rest of our interview with Tasha Baxter that wasn't printed in our COSMO Rocks! supplement.

MUSIC

You’re a busy lady – DJ, vocalist, ad jingles – how do your different roles feed into each other and/or influence each other?
They are all part and parcel of each other. If you listen to my album [Colour of Me] and the diverse songs you’ll see I can’t stick to a certain genre. I am a multifaceted person in every aspect of the word and that reflects in the music. If I could play every instrument and do everything, I would.

In 2008 you won two SAMAs! That’s an attention grabber. Has this had a positive effect on your inspiration, media repute and music sales?
Sales? Not that I know of. There was some hype in the media around the awards, though. It helps for networking; a lot of people who didn’t know me were like ‘who’s this chick cleaning up at the SAMAs?' At the same time, we’ve had a lot of support from radio stations saying, ‘Look, we know you haven’t popped out of nowhere.’ It was like the grace of God pouring out of heaven, because something like this makes people realise you aren’t a one hit wonder. It’s not about your image, or your marketing; it’s just judges judging music.

Many less experienced musicians are afraid producers will take over and ‘change’ their sound. Your production is crystal clear and brings out the best in your voice and your compositions. Tell us about working with producers?
My producers absolutely enhanced my music. I basically needed people to bounce off. I worked with Dutch production prodigies, Noisia in Holland. They’re mind-blowingly talented! A year ago they were still underground, since then they’ve worked with Amon Tobin, Moby and with Sony Play Station on one of their soundtracks. I’m so glad I worked with them when I did. I wanted an edgy pop album. I wanted them to interpret the sound, to say, ‘Here’s all the separate elements, take it and work with it.’ They hadn’t even worked with vocals before; I don’t think they realised what they were getting into. But you can’t be too precious about your stuff. Working with Noisia was cool, we’re like minded in that way – we love Billy holiday, we love Imogen Heap and Portishead. It’s like making love – you can’t have sex with some random person who doesn’t get you.

LIFESTYLE

You juggle a lot. Musically you’re diverse, personally you’re a diva and a mother. How do you keep things balanced?
It’s such an all-consuming industry. If you’re not breathing, living, eating your music career every day and making it your business, you’re not on top of your game. Making music, having two children and then trying to keep family and friends happy is hard. I don’t think they realise how hectic it is. At the same time I am flexible, I don’t have a nine-to-five, but the challenge is really daunting. Add to that the fact that I’m young, I have to switch between being exposed to party lifestyle and being in mom-mode.

FAME

Do you enjoy being in the public eye?
Uhm, it’s part and parcel. I am somewhat of an entertainer, always wanted to be in film, and I do enjoy it. The fact that we don’t have rubbish paparazzi makes it manageable. I take everything to heart a lot of the time, though I don’t show it. I’m focusing on giving a positive message wherever I am, being myself and being real. Thank God for my children, they’ve probably kept me grounded. I’m also ditzy and crazy, untouchable.

Tasha Baxter at home in slippers – is she the same as the woman on stage, or behind the recording desk? How does your music extend you, or reinvent you?
It is kind of like an alter ego you can tap into. But for me it doesn’t change, that’s how I am in all aspects. If I’m cooking food or if I’m doing a vocal session for H20, I’m the same. You have to be consistent. People know very quickly when you’re changing your behaviour just for effect, and I don’t change.

What's your dream set up?
I’d love to be in a position where I’m not worrying about money, so that I can focus on my kids, career and my life. Money worries get so stressful; it takes your eyes off the goal. I’d love to be in an environment where I had my own studio. Because of my lifestyle it is very hard to do everything. Ideally a self sufficient set-up with everything at my fingertips, somewhere convenient I could lay down vocals and ideas. I need that outlet, and when it’s all pent up, I go mad. I’d like to have a production company of my own – an umbrella company with its own radio station, events, etc. To be able to do that, I’d like to have the time to go and study sound design.

I would love to travel, and not have my kids worrying about me worrying.

And a nice little resort out there away from the madness to escape to.

When the World Comes Down - All American Rejects

Sun, 05 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

Skaters who brush their fringes and wash their feet, what bliss. This catchy album is almost remarkable, but almost generic at the same time, so be careful.

Arguably When The World Comes Down's melodies go down like a virgin cocktail, but maybe that's just the issue – its compositions are the kind that brush their teeth twice a day; squeaky clean and unmysterious. It's the kind of vocal-driven party music your mother didn't warn you about because she didn’t need to. It’s not arrogantly noisy and it has its moments of well-endowed crunch and grind.

In all, When The World Comes Down is a pretty palatable pop rock album. If you like lyrics riddled in middle-class, adolescent angst and perfected by first class production that would make a crying baby sound sublime, give it a spin. It might give you something to sing along to.

BEST TRACKS: 'I Wanna', 'Mona Lisa', 'Believe'

The Circus - Take That

Sat, 04 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

Haven’t we had enough of ageing boy bands? Not only do Take That look like a quartet of tired starlings doing dandy tricks on a telephone wire on the cover, they sound like larks that have passed their Best Before date.

They were never the sires of boy beats, and neither are they to be the last lot of luddites that try to milk the shmooze cash cow. This album is all serenades and wrist-slicing inversions of emo – skinny tunes fattened by full production and very unoriginal rhythms. And when they ask 'Why, why, why, do you cry, cry, cry?' in 'Julie', you have to bite your tongue not to answer for her. Because it’s pretty obvious she got bored.

Give this one a miss, unless you need to bawl your eyes out or better yet, tear your ears off.

BEST TRACKS: None, they’re all equally annoying.

In the City - Kevin Rudolph

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

Warning: This is not an album for the faint hearted. In the City is an explicit rock sound that wants to be a hip hop gangsta when it grows up, but sometimes reverts to a youth of soft pop and R&B.

The unusual genre-splicing works, and there are quieter tracks like 'I Song', but mostly it’s full-on and fast, or heavy and pacing. Displaying the usual bravado of the small-man syndrome, its lyrics are alive with self-congratulatory salutations and the stuff that makes girl go astray. It’s believable because it bleeds with an urgency that underlines every track and it covers a range of emotions rare to most accessible albums.

BEST TRACKS: 'In The City', 'I Song', 'No Way Out'

Small Tlk with BLK JKS

Thu, 02 Apr 2009 12:00 +0200

You may have heard of this group of talented, attractive men who make a habit of bending musical genres. These cool cats have been getting a lot of attention locally, and are now slowly taking the United States by storm.

We sent Mpumi Mcata a few questions across the ocean. These are his (rather cryptic) answers:

COSMO: Where on earth are you in America? And why there?
Mpumi: Middle America, small town, Bloomington Indiana USA; the Secretly Canadian offices are here.

COSMO: Who are you working with? And on what? Signed permanently? A distribution deal? Tours?
Mpumi: The Secretly Canadian team, KR, Brandon Curtis (Secret Machines), some South African folks, people of the global village, physically, literally and in spirit along with the BLK JKS are working on After Robots the album.

COSMO: Do you think Americans respond to your sound because of its similarities to earlier American rock, or because the other elements are so foreign to them (you singing in languages other than English, splicing genres so fluidly)?
Mpumi: Both

COSMO: Who do you hang with in the states? Have you found like minded people to socialize and swap stories with?
Mpumi: Oh yes, but at the moment that's our secret.

COSMO: Care to share one of those stories?
Mpumi: OK. Tshepang and I by chance once cycled at midnight over the Brooklyn Bridge to a loft party in Dumbo Manhattan where most of the individuals in this Black Book “secret society” of ours were... long story short, we didn't cycle home.

COSMO: Now that you’re recording in the States, are you planning on relocating permanently?
Mpumi: There is no way to tell really, we go where the work is. South Africa is home, though, and we’d like to spend as much time at home as possible.

COSMO: What visions do you have for cultural and creative exchange – will you be bringing the ‘American jazz’ sound to your music? Or maybe borrowing elements of country? American hip hop?
Mpumi: Too early to say.

COSMO: How do you feel about sharing your culture with American people?
Mpumi: We’d like to be able to do this for a while, so as long as it and we can sustain ourselves then we're good. Also in it all, we would of course love to give something even more tangible back to our peoples, yeah, mad ambitious (LOL).

COSMO: Do you think your way of doing things will be influenced by American culture? (e.g. actively striving for economic success, pushing your product as far as possible)
Mpumi: I expected to meet the beast you know, the one they say drives the machine and I did on the Bridge and it wasn't all that bad. Everyone just needs to chill.

COSMO: Are there any ladies in your guys’ lives?
Mpumi: Define “Girlfriend”

COSMO: If so, did you take them with you? Or are you doing long distance?
Mpumi: They’re all over the world, international ladies of mystery themselves, so they can and do like a few of our friends and get anywhere just fine. Relationships with the people we dig the most in our lives are and have always been long distance in parts, no problem, or at least none that we can’t manage.

COSMO: If long distance, do you have any positive tips or warnings about long distance for COSMO readers?
Mpumi: Again, ladies, ladies, ladies, we definitely can’t offer any advice on that – every situation is how shall we say it, uh, unique.

COSMO: Also, do you have any insights to COSMO girls about dating a rock star/ musician? What are some of the beauties of it? What are some of the struggles?
Mpumi: Don't do it. Just kidding – Paulo would kill me. So I don’t know, ask Courtney Love and or Letta Mbuli.

COSMO: How do you feel about groupies and fame in SA? I mean, do we have any groupies in SA? And have you come across any in your musical careers?
Mpumi: No, we (BLK JKS) only have fans and friends (didn’t you see Almost Famous?). If we have any groupies we haven’t really seen them. We used to have a groupie manager and let’s just say he used to manage it all so well we never met them.

COSMO: Are you more aware of your ‘South African-ness’ in the US?
Mpumi: Nomakanjani Kanjalo, Namanje – always organized.

PS: The opinions held in this interview do not necessarily reflect the views of the entire band... OK, they kind of do.

Ubuntu

Mpumi

Sexy Son of Blues

Wed, 10 Jun 2009 12:00 +0200

Sexy and witty, Argentinean-born Federico Fernandez has the best of both worlds. Anyone who can’t see why he’s a professional model is blind, and when he’s not making men and women drool behind the lens, he does it behind a guitar fronting blues band Son of a Thousand Blues. COSMO caught him between shoots and the stage to find out what he thinks of women, sex and egos in the entertainment industry.

What advice would you give a girl who wanted to date you?
I would advise her to read a lot of books, groom her finger and toe nails, start practicing honesty, and be dirty-minded and bold.

What’s the one complaint every girl you’ve ever dated would have about you?
That I take a long time to climax.

Many people know you as many things (musician, model, actor and friend). What is the one hidden talent no one knows about you?
I write poetry.

Describe your dream woman.
Independent, calm, sexy, sticks with me in good times and bad ones, good mother, the muse of many of my poems and songs, spontaneous, open-minded. (I actually wake up every morning next to this woman.)

Have you ever had your heart broken?
Yes, many times and it’s tricky. You develop a layer of immunity around your heart every time it happens and that’s not good. People need to stay sensitive, let go and be guided by their heart more often.

What’s a relationship deal-breaker for you?
I guess to be out of love; that would be a sign to pack the bags. Besides that, I don’t think even sex with other people would do it. But to be out of love is like trying to resuscitate a flower that was cut, wilted and died.

Everyone flirts, but each person has their own style. Do you use one-liners?
I have to say that I once used a one-liner and I ended up married! The story goes that Natalia (my wife) came up to me while I was smoking and asked me for a puff of my cigarette. When she gave it back to me and I took a drag, I told her the cigarette tasted sweeter. By the end of the conversation we were at my place…

Which SA celebrity would you most like to date?
Hmm, tough one, South African women are all so gorgeous, it’s difficult… I suppose Charlize Theron.

Let’s say you're trying to make a good impression on a woman you haven’t met. How do you introduce yourself, and which title do you use?
I go to her mom first and I introduce myself as her son-in-law, it really works. Or I go to the girl and with a very serious face I introduce myself as her sex slave, or if those don’t work, I just introduce myself in Spanish.

Do you find that your different professions make a good impact on women? Which of your skills is the most likely to get you positive female attention?
Well, the way that I approach my professions gives them a good impression; I’m a pretty reserved guy, I try to avoid pointless or vain exposure. Son of a Thousand Blues is a good example of that; it’s about the music, the energy, the passion, not the illusion of fame that distracts you from the roots you are coming from. The skills that the señoritas most enjoy is the music and the poetry, I’ve published some of my poetry on Facebook and the comments received are so beautiful. Of course other women enjoy all the modeling stuff, but I enjoy when they appreciate the work I do that requires talent. Modelling, I couldn’t say that requires much talent.

Is the cliché about musicians having dirty feet, dirty mouths and dirty minds true?
The dirty feet doesn’t go with me, I hate to have dirty or smelly feet. The dirty mouth, in some way it’s true, I swear quite a lot but the dirty mind bit is an absolute truth. If someone had a device that could read my mind, I would have been in jail a long time ago.

Are male models in love with themselves or with beauty in general?
What I see is that many models are very insecure. The modelling business is very hard, (in terms of appearance) nothing is enough, they have to always check themselves in the mirrors or live in the gym or dress in the latest fashion to, I suppose, feel they belong to the industry. And when that happens they start loosing their personality and they become one more of the bunch. As a model you need to become a unique product, not to try and look the same as the rest. So that’s why people think models are in love with themselves. But I think it’s just a case of insecurity made worse by the industry itself with all the pressure it exerts.

Who has the bigger ego – a model or a musician?
It depends, I've met as many models that are very down to earth and humble as ones who are just so annoying that I can't have half of a conversation with them. I’ve met amazing musicians that loose themselves in music, so there is no time for egos; but I’ve met mediocre musicians that are full of themselves. The secret is to stay humble. When you lose humility, you are lost, just as when you lose your roots and where you come from.

Blues is sexy, but slow. Does it please women as much as it pleases men, or maybe more?
Blues pleases everyone, but in women, it awakens the stripper in them. There is a story of pain and broken hearts in every blues song and, if nothing, blues is sexy. Slow. And deep. I would bet that there are not many women that don’t like it slow and deep...

Hope for the Hopeless - Brett Dennen

Tue, 24 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

Sweet and sublimely melodic, Brett Dennen has a quirky voice and a knack for writing really friendly acoustic pop tracks he can perform to perfection. It's also not surprising that he’s backed in places by the likes of Australian emo songstress Missy Higgins and our fellow Femi Kuti.

While the overall lyrical message is a little too simplistic, his one liners are solid and straightforward and the use of unique instruments like the ukulele makes his music stand out against others of the ilk. It’s more Travis from California than Jack Johnson from England.

BEST TRACKS: 'Wrong About Me', 'When She’s Gone', 'Who Do You Think You Are?'

Theatre of the Mind - Ludacris

Mon, 23 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

It’s all very well that hip hop is a world phenomenon, loved from Japan to Jamaica, but it all starts to sound the same after a while. And Ludacris, ludicrously, is no different.

Hard, driven lyrics with that twisty tongue and nifty wit are par for the course, of course. The man does it in (big budget) style, after all. To its credit, Theatre of the Mind has a theatrical/cinematic feel, with ambient samples and splices of conversation, which adds some drama and perhaps places its hip hop sounds in the setting it stems from – the everyday Hollywood hangout. (My apologies to Prophets of da City.)

On second listen, it’s almost a history of American commercial hip hop circa the last six years or so, with rhythms recalling anything from Will Smith to Eminem. Not bad, but not brilliant either. Ludacris fans will nod their heads to its beats, but you won’t really know if it's out of deference to him or just feeling the flow.

BEST TRACKS: 'Call Up The Homies', 'Southern Gangsta', 'Everybody Hates Chris'

African Renaissance - Coda

Sun, 22 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

n contrast to the clichéd belief about money, it’s music that makes the world go round. And with the world being a challenging place to live in, something that makes you feel good is worth a listen.

It’s for this reason that the sweet synergy of funk, Afro-pop, classical derivatives and house beats from a groomed group is something of a blessing, even if it isn’t a particularly interesting album. African Renaissance has its fair share of hot beats, honeyed vocals, cheerful sprinkles of easy violin and happy sax, but it’s also clearly aimed at a commercial, musically illiterate market, with repetitive loops, simplistic song structures and unremarkable rhythms. Its mix of international sounds is hardly indigenous, but it’s well produced. So if you like energetic, easy background sounds dependable enough for a get-down once in a while, give the album a try. Just don’t expect it to live up to its name.

BEST TRACKS: 'Mama', 'Reach Out', 'Life'

Hit Singles

Wed, 18 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

As soon as we heard Wynand Myburgh and Jeremy de Tolly were booked for our Hit Singles fashion shoot (in the April issue of COSMOPOLITAN, now on sale), we knew we had to take advantage of the opportunity to ask them a few personal questions.

WYNAND
Born and bred in the northern suburbs of Bellville Rock City, Wynand Myburgh assisted in pioneering local rock music. Bassist for Afrikaans rock legends, Fokofpolisiekar and subsequent spinoff group, Van Coke Kartel, Wynand is more than just a musician. He’s a successful businessman, co-running the well-known music management agency, Punkskelm. A man of many talents, Wynand has the ability to make the splits look easy and the double bass look like a Fender. Whether it be playing the role of a manic, drug-crazed preacher in the latest Van Coke Kartel music video, Wat Het Van Ons Geword?, or mastering his high kick onstage antics, Wynand has proved time and again that he’s a real rocknrolla.

JEREMY
He’s a self-proclaimed fruity spiritual, with a passion for home and a knack for getting his tracks to the top of the charts. The face of indie rock and lead singer of acclaimed Mothercity band, The Dirty Skirts, Jeremy de Tolly is a front man extraordinaire. On stage, it doesn’t matter whether he’s performing for an intimate crowd at The Assembly, playing prestigious overseas festivals or on tour in the UK; Jeremy is a force to be reckoned with and always on top form. More than just brights, skinnies and a pair of wayfarers, Jeremy has helped take The Dirty Skirts to record deal heaven with their latest album, Daddy Don’t Disco. With a Sony BMG backing, a chart-topping music video and more hits on the way, Jeremy de Tolly is certainly on a Stellar Bender.

WHAT MAKES A WOMAN SEXY?
JEREMY: That’s a good question. I’d say confidence,
WYNAND: Her hands. The way she walks, talks, brushes depth, honesty and spark. her hair.

AND PLUS-SIZE WOMEN?
JEREMY: The same applies.
WYNAND: I don’t know; I’ve never had the privilege.

WHAT IS YOUR IDEAL WOMAN?
JEREMY: The short answer is I don’t know, she just is, and sometimes I think these things are just destined to be.
WYNAND: Just someone I can connect with; it's thatconnection – I connect fucking well with the person I'm seeing now. It's like a friendship; someone’s that got thesame vision and ideas, someone who can support me, someone I can support.

HOW WOULD A GIRL GET YOUR ATTENTION?
JEREMY: A hammer. A feather. Whatever.
WYNAND: Uhm. Obviously in a crowd, stuff that I favour is dark hair, tanned skin. I scheme if they give me eye contact and little smiles that’ll definitely get my attention.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT A GIRL MAKING THE FIRST MOVE?
JEREMY: Enthused. Grateful.
WYNAND: That’s fucking rad. It makes it easier. And then it’s up to me to decide yes or no. I get to make the choices. But then again, I’m hooked up, so I’m not thinking that way right now.

HOW OLD WERE YOU WHEN YOU FIRST FELL IN LOVE?
JEREMY: Probably 21 of years. I was a late bloomer, felt like redwood.
WYNAND: I think… uh… difficult to say. I think around eleven.

WHAT DOES LOVE MEAN TO YOU?
JEREMY: Love is something like to do a lot.
WYNAND: God.

WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE SEX POSITION?
JEREMY: I don’t have one; that would be silly. What does COSMO suggest? I mean it seems to me as silly as having a favourite food.
WYNAND: No comment.

Take a look at the BTS photo gallery.

Click here to listen to free streaming MP3s by Fokofpolisiekar and The Dirty Skirts.

Slumdog Millionaire - Ost Various Artists

Tue, 17 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

Already the winner of four prestigious awards, including the Oscar for 'Best Original Score' and 'Best Original Song', there's no doubt it will be the most talked about soundtrack of the year.

The mastermind behind the music is renowned composer and musician, A.R. Rahman. If his name was foreign to you before, it shouldn’t be now. Slumdog Millionaire has catapulted Rahman’s compositions into the ears of avid listeners the world over. While there may be some dodgy dance tracks and a cheesy love song or two, the funky Indian rhythms and refreshing contributions from M.I.A. make this soundtrack an eclectic masterpiece.

The blend of traditional and modern is unifying in every sense.

BEST TRACKS: 'Jai Ho'; 'O…Saya'; 'Paper Planes'; 'Mausam & Escape'

Fearless - Taylor Swift

Mon, 16 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

You may have a love-hate relationship with country music and believe that it’s nothing more than a series of American twangs and one-too-many Garth Brooks albums, but 19-year-old Taylor Swift is nothing like her predecessors. A fresh face combined with talent brings a much-needed contemporary edge to country pop.

While it’s clear the lyrics were written for fellow love struck teenagers, Swift’s are idealistically charming and utterly heart wrenching.

Swift’s second album may be one big love song confined to a CD case, but this girl hasn’t won 12 awards for nothing. Her pure voice and innocent intentions have helped Fearless go three-times platinum. Like her or not, Taylor Swift and her chart-topping hits are here to stay.

BEST TRACKS: ‘Fifteen,’ ‘Forever and Always,’ ‘Love Story’

Live In Japan - Rodrigo Y Gabriela

Sun, 15 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

From Cape Town to Tokyo, this sibling set is strumming its way to success. With nothing more than two guitars and (it seems) a thousand fingers, Gabriela and Rodrigo capture a world beyond words.

Typical of Spanish song structures, their compositions swell feverishly and break beautifully, but they remain incredibly listenable at the same time – something which must come from the synergy between the brother and sister. Everyone is talking about them, from moms to rock stars, so give them a listen and embrace your inner Hispanic.

BEST TRACKS: 'Ok Tokyo'; 'Satori'; 'One'

Top 10 Single Celebs

Fri, 13 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

From vampires and Spartans to prison escapees and football players, we’ve given you a whole range of sexy sweethearts and brooding bad boys to choose from. Take your pick.

RYAN GOSLING
While he may have started his career on the Mickey Mouse Club (alongside Britney Spears, Justin Timberlake and Christian Aguilera), he became every girl’s heart-throb in The Notebook, arguably one of the best chick flicks ever made. We can’t help but swoon over his slightly boyish charm, the mischievous smile and those puppy-dog eyes.

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He's Just Not That Into You - Ost, Various Artists

Thu, 12 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

It’s not just because the film is fantastic that you’ll enjoy this one. Creating and recreating scenes from the film or your own romantic realities, the compilation is just what a single girl needs as a companion. Carefully selected to reflect classic pop and emerging hits, the songs are not so big that they overshadow the film, but neither are they negligible.

From Human League through The Cure right up to Maroon5 and James Morrison, the sounds run from alternative country to Brit pop and their sentiments from raunchy couch-scapades to soft-core dawns. R.E.M is in there, for measured melancholic reflections, coupled with Keane’s edgy enthusiasm. The Ting Tings get fingers snapping and with My Morning Jacket and The Black Crowes, there’s enough party to match your dating highs and lows, and the bonus is a video of Scarlett Johansen covering Jeff Buckley’s ‘Last Goodbye’, though even the provocatresse can’t say goodbye the way that man can.

Until you find the guy you don’t want to say goodbye to, keep this album close.

BEST TRACKS: 'I’m Amazed' - My Morning Jacket; 'Don’t You Want Me' - The Human League; 'By Your Side' - The Black Crowes; 'Love, Save The Empty' - Erin McCarley

Lovebox - Soul Candi

Wed, 11 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

The beauty of the house movement must be that its beat becomes part of house fans’ own heartbeat – rhythmic, steady and linked to everything, or rising, peaking and pulling you back down to earth.

Soul Candi have undoubtedly made a brand of such beats, recycling smooth sounds from commercial pop, funk and rock, and reinterpreting them on repeat. This album’s loose flow of mid-tempo stands out only in the fact that there are almost no distinguishing characteristics track to track. It sounds like late summer, like lost nights on club balconies, like something I imagine Ibiza would feel like at the end of a heavy season. Listen to Lovebox if you’re a mid-tempo Soul Candi house fan. Otherwise, give it a skip.

BEST TRACKS: 'Breathe You In' – Samantha James; 'Love Is A Liar' – Sam & Gigi; 'We Are Lonely' – Studio Apartment

The Katie melua Collection - Katie Melua

Tue, 10 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

The slow lurch and lull of Katie Melua has struck the sentiments of the more serious ears in the music market, making her an overnight success and a name synonymous with sighs and smiles.

By no means a fading wallflower, the popular singer/songwriter has penned four of her own tracks on this album, and collaborated with two other writers. She tries her tongue at traditional ballads and gives her version of 'Wonderful World', which is better known for being sung by a blind man.

Altogether slow and slowly sexy, her quiet forays into the subtle seduction of slow singing are well companioned by instrumental backup, whether it’s a penny whistle or a bluesy electric guitar. It’s sexy, if you like it slow.

BEST TRACKS: 'Piece By Piece', 'I Cried For You', 'Somewhere In The Same Hotel'

The Curious Case of Benjamin Button

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

THE STORY
Benjamin Button lived life backwards: Born with the appearance of an old man, he slowly grew younger. In what seems to be a slightly whimsical, yet almost ideal turnaround of the unfolding of life, he grows up in an old age home and leaves it to become a seaman. His abiding love for the flagrant dancer Daisy, who stole his heart the second their eyes met when they were children, eventually has its chance to blossom. But time is not on his side. Fate, however, seems to be and Benjamin Button, despite his setbacks, lives a life worthy of, well, a fairytale.

SEE IT BECAUSE Brad Pitt deserved his Oscar nomination for Best Actor for his efforts at emulating a diseased and doddery and rather odd, little boy.

Despite a story line with little drama, the star-studded cast is candy to the eyes. It's a long-winded film that really could have said all it wanted to say in an hour. But perhaps the director chose to stretch the story to give the narrative a sense of the passage of time.

New In Town

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

THE STORY
Ambitious executive Lucy (Renée Zellweger) is on the fast track to become Vice President, but is unexpectedly sent to a small middle-of-nowhere Minnesota town to oversee the 'downsizing' of the manufacturing plant and manage the eminent layoffs. When she arrives in the miserably frozen-over New Ulm, all Lucy wants to do is her job. But she and the town, including the rugged Ted (Harry Connick Jnr.), soon warm to each other and her icy exterior melts as she falls in love with all things Ulm.

SEE IT BECAUSE even though you can call the plot twists 20-minutes in, the film still leaves you with that warm and fuzzy feeling.

Renée Zellweger's return to physical comedy might not be award-winning stuff, but the extremely likeable cast will light a small fire in your heart; New in Town is a cute romantic comedy that will leave you with that warm and fuzzy feeling afterwards.

We the Kings

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

Big hair, beautiful lips and sexy stares. That’s you, right? Wrong, it’s We the Kings, boosting the hormone count in kinder-pop this season.

Not quite Kings of Leon, their obsessive investment in catches, hooks and, well, big hair will make sure they’re the next two-season success after which the masses will tire and go hunting for another energetic emo act to consume. In the interim, We The Kings are leading the stakes in refined commercial fodder. Their sweet skater sounds lack the life of The Killers and the empty spaces that even the Hansons had the discipline to drop into their guitarverload. But if you don’t listen too closely, it won’t offend you too deeply. That, after all, is the best thing about pop.

BEST TRACKS: 'Secret Valentine', 'All Again For You', 'Stay Young'

Call and Response: The Remix Album - Maroon 5

Thu, 05 Mar 2009 12:00 +0200

Mmmmaroon 5. Remember those sexy, skinny vocals and a certain dry disdain that we found irresistible the first time? Well, second time round is not as sexy.

Take those sizzling pop sounds and put them at the mercy of mean men Pharrell, Cut Copy, Westlove and Paul Oakenfold, and you’ve got a whole other kettle of fish. Thing is, it isn’t as bad as you’d expect. The distilled remixes reveal a sound song structure that carry the melodies beyond the repetitions typical of the remix medium. That said, it’s no Killers remix, so don’t expect too much depth from this disc.

BEST TRACKS: 'Wake Up Call' featuring Mary J. Bilge remixed by Sweizz Beatz, 'If I Never See Your Face Again' featuring Rihanna remixed by Paul Okenfold, 'She Will Be Loved' remixed by Pharrell Williams

Universal Love

Fri, 27 Feb 2009 12:00 +0200

We speak to award-winning writer/director Shamim Sarif about her film.

Set against a backdrop of patriarchy and apartheid, The World Unseen looks at love and freedom through the eyes of two heroines at odds with their culture and country. Free spirited, self-employed Amina meets Miriam – housewife and mother – and their chemistry changes the course of their lives.

Shot entirely on South African soil by a team of almost all women, the film was selected to premier at the Toronto Film Festival, nominated for 10 SAFTAs and won the Audience Best Motion Picture Award at the Paris Feminist & Lesbian Film Festival. The novel the film is based on has won the Pendleton May First Novel Award, the prestigious Betty Trask Award and was selected as The Star Book of the Week in South Africa.

We asked Shamim a few hard-hitting questions about the delicate subject of love and freedom.

Gender, culture, race and history: These things divide South Africans, yet we all feel the resonance of the universal. Considering the central love story, what relevance does the film hold to a non-homosexual audience?
I think the film deals with a number of issues on a number of different levels. It is not, at its core, about homosexuality, but rather about our responsibility as human beings to think outside the box now and then, and it's about integrity. I also wanted to make a film that had a character that just happens to be gay. No one walks out of any film and says 'that was a great heterosexual love story'. If the characters and the story absorb, it shouldn't matter.

How did the narrative change with adapting the novel to screenplay? Some things that fit between pages might not work on screen.
The narrative became tighter and a lot more was assumed, because audiences are sophisticated at picking up visual cues. I tried, as the screenwriter, to be true to the themes rather than each individual scene. David Hare said of screen adaptations that you have to be promiscuous to be faithful.

How do the characters develop (or degenerate) in accordance with an apartheid backdrop?
I think the apartheid backdrop is a dramatic source of pressure for the characters in the film. And under pressure, you can see the best and worst of people. So some characters rise to the challenge and grow and expand their thinking (and actions), while others reveal the worst part of the natures, the kind of degeneration of values that such an unfair system encourages and thrives on.

How much of the tale is your own interpretation of the events as they unfolded?
Quite a lot of interpretation has happened, if only because the version of events I was starting from was sketchy. The character of Amina, for instance, was based on a girl I had heard about who a) wore trousers b) drove taxis for a living and c) never got married – and that was all I knew. So then I was fascinated by how someone could live so differently from cultural expectations in the 1950s and I created her back story and character from that.

How is The World Unseen original?
I think the exploration of free-thinking and integrity within two rigid systems – an Indian patriarchal culture and the political constraints of apartheid is unique. And having said that, the fact that the movie is really a very personal, human story and love story is important, because I wanted the background systems to be very much a part of the characters daily lives, not a big idea crowding the film and politicising it.

What wisdom does it offer that reaches beyond its socio-political setting?
That fundamentally we progress as a race, as a community, as families, if we challenge our own realities and thinking all the time. Apartheid forms a dramatic relief against which to suggest that, but the theme holds out in almost any setting.

What internal processes inspired the telling of such a personal tale to the wider, global public? Surely this is very revealing of realities close to your own?
I was very touched and disturbed growing up by the evident inequalities between men and women in my Indian-based culture and in so many cultures. And by the ridiculous inequalities imposed by racism or any other 'ism'. So my grandmother seemed in her own stories to be a woman without any real choices in life, or rather, without the awareness that she could possibly decide anything for herself. I envisioned a similar character in Miriam, except that Miriam becomes aware and then starts to make choices that upset the status quo – small decisions that have a big impact. So I suppose my personal outrage and rebellion against those kinds of strictures drove me a lot initially.

How does a story set in the past hope to help people facing similar situations in the present?
One of the depressing and yet beautiful things about humanity is that it doesn't seem to change as much as we think. We are all as driven by passions as we always have been. And I think there are universal stories and choices and pressures we all face and have always faced that stir up recognition when watching a movie like The World Unseen. And even in specifics like racial and cultural and sexual divides, there's still a way to go, even in the modern world.

You've set quite an example for young business women – by writing, scripting, directing and producing your own work (and even your own label to release the soundtrack and videos on). Any encouragements on the challenges inherent in remaining an independent creative force in a climate that places little economic value on the arts?
I think you have to do this kind of work – creative work – because you have to. Because it's a burning need or desire. It is hard, and I have no idea where I would be, but I know it would not be here without the emotional and physical support and belief of Hanan, my wife and the producer of our films. My advice would be to work hard at your art but also work hard at keeping faith that what you are doing will have an impact, will find a way into the world. And if you can, find someone to help in that support process who can complement you.

Do women work well under pressure together? Is there less ego and better communication in film making with mostly women than with men on the team?
Certainly multi-tasking was not a problem! I would hate to make that generalisation, but we had an all-female production team and many female heads of department, and it was a fantastic set, relaxed and with no egos. I am not a director who likes to exist on stress anyway. It is stressful, but I like to keep the set relaxed so the actors can work free of tension. And Hanan was amazing in keeping things running smoothly. Mostly I think everyone was there for the right reason – passion for the project and a will to tell the story in the best way possible.

What messages would you like every COSMO reader to get out of watching your film and reading your novel?
That small changes, small steps, can make a huge change in a life. That changing your perceptions and daring to think and act a little differently can be freeing, as long as it's done with integrity.

Best of - Hillary Duff

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:00 +0200

When it comes to pop, you’re generally safe judging an album by its album art.

Hillary Duff is every bit the pop princess in beautiful black and white studio shots and her songs are just as sweet and sexy and studio styled as her smile is. Despite the irony of her being barely out of her teens, this Best Of compilation delivers all the promises of a classic in the making (if classics can do without personality).

But despite slick production, sexy mixing and sublime marketing, it’s evidently less about the love of music than it is about the best way to sell celebrity. The lyrics are nothing new and if you listen closely you’ll hear that the screen darling has created a Depeche Mode ‘tribute’ devoid of depth. If nowhere else on the album, Duff reveals her musical want in this song that is about as old as she is.

BEST TRACKS: 'Wake Up', 'Beat Of My Heart', 'Stranger'

Universal Mind Control - Common

Thu, 26 Feb 2009 12:00 +0200

Written with the joys of the sticky season in mind, this is a tight mix of Common rhythm and rhyme all wrapped up in signature style and sexy production.

Borrowing breathy refrains from the alternative country queen, Martina Topley-Bird and the smooth moves of Muhsinah, some tracks tickle the tastes of those who want more than simplistic sentiments out of the soundtrack to their late summer dates. For a dependably well made, monotonous mix, let it set the tone while you choose the dance.

BEST TRACKS: 'What A World', 'Everywhere' featuring Martina Topley-Bird, 'Make My Day' featuring Cee-Lo

He's Just Not That Into You

Thu, 12 Feb 2009 12:00 +0200

GENRE: Romantic comedy

THE STORY
A gregarious and slightly over enthusiastic Gigi is slowly decoding the world of dating with a little help from her girlfriends. It's not until Alex, a detached yet adorable restaurateur, starts assessing her potential mates that she starts to get the game. But it seems the game is playing them and the rules are about to be rewritten.

SEE IT BECAUSE it's an intelligent chick flick that teaches you something about love and life.

Delightfully directed with a cheeky combination of chemistry and cringe factors, He's Just Not That Into You takes an honest look at how we communicate and fornicate, and ends with a realistic and uplifting message that turns both sad and happy endings into positive beginnings. The babe factor is high, but so is the acting standard with a cast of stars to gasp at. Affleck is adept and accessible, Johansson is an innocent seductress and Aniston is insightful. The characters are both beautiful and believable, so you won't be disappointed no matter what you want from the script and the screen.