Gabrielle Aplin Live at Koko, London

20th March 2013

   The 13^th March 2013 marked the beginning of Gabrielle Aplin’s sold-out UK tour for her debut album English Rain. Wednesday evening saw her arrival in London, where she played to an impressive crowd at London’s Koko music venue.

   The 20 year-old Wiltshire-born singer/songwriter is no stranger to the stage, with a wealth of experience under her belt despite her young age. After touring alongside Gotye and Ed Sheeran, she is set to be a rising star in the UK. Her rendition of 80’s classic ‘The Power of Love’, originally by Frankie Goes to Hollywood, secured her her first UK number one after it featured in John Lewis’ Christmas advertisement. And this faultless performance at Koko proves that she will not be a one-hit wonder.

   Opening with Panic Cord, which will be released as her next single, Gabrielle instantly charmed her audience with her sweet country sound. She was accompanied by guitarists, a drummer and an inspiring string quartet, which brought out the beauty in her simple and honest lyrics. The performance saw her move confidently and effortlessly from guitar to piano, showcasing her endless musical ability. One song was even performed as an acapella trio, complete with mesmerising harmonies. The theatre was in complete silence as the appreciative audience were calmly caressed by Gabrielle’s soothing vocals.

   The old Victorian theatre was perfect for the acoustic sound, with each note resonating through the venue. After she had finished her set, the audience waited in eager anticipation for an encore. They were not disappointed as Gabrielle ended the performance with Home, a clear favourite of the fans as they lovingly sang along with the chorus.

   In all, the evening was an inspirational success, proving Gabrielle to be an artist with an abundance of natural talent, dedication and musical passion. We look forward to her return to the UK in October for what looks to be another sell-out tour.

Gabrielle’s forthcoming album English Rain is available to buy from the 13^th May 2013 and tickets for her next tour are available to pre-book now.

Visit www.gabrielleaplin.co.uk to find out more.

An Unforgettable HOTHOT Hot Tub Cinema Experience

   Wednesday evening saw the opening night of Hot Tub Cinema’s All-Time Classics film extravaganza. And it was truly a red carpet event… No, really! For one week only, Hot Tub Cinema will be combining film and frolicking as they screen a selection of Modern Greats, while their audience relax in a deliciously HOT hot tub.

    As the HOTHOT team arrived at the factory location in Shoreditch, we naughtily anticipated what we were about to endure. The promise of hot tubs, Austin Powers, alcoholic beverages and a derelict factory space were not a combination that our innocent selves had previously encountered. But what we were greeted by was a velvet rope-led, red carpet runway complete with lighting rigs, stage curtains and Hollywood-inspired props. We felt every bit like we were back stage on a film set!

   After exchanging our cash for food and drink tokens and a waterproof wrist pouch (a very handy item, we must say), we stripped down to semi-nudity and joined our fellow tubbers. There was no need to leave our tub again, as a team of animal-onesie-wearing waiters were at our beck and call, ready to offer their impeccable ‘tub service’. A service that ensured you could stay fed and watered, while staying positively toasty in your tub. 

   Tub number 13 proved to be party central, where we laughed, drank, danced and munched on hotdogs and pop-corn (although it was debatable whether it was salted or sweet... nonetheless, each piece was a tasty surprise!) We also discovered that our Editor-in-Chief does one mean impression of Dr Evil, but we shall save that for another day…

   The factory was buzzing. So much so that it could have been mistaken for a wild Friday night in the height of summer. Wednesday is the new Friday apparently, with no space for thoughts of work or sleep- Only bubbles, booze and bikinis! And what a better way to spend it than getting all lubed up in a tub with your friends!

   The end of the film signalled time to get a-movin’ and a-tubbin’! The HOTHOT team soaked up the atmosphere and joined in with the chaotic water-fuelled fun. Cue whirl-pool-making, childish frolicking and marine-animal antics! And the night would not have been complete without a cheeky grope of the Marilyn Monroe cut out.

   Each evening, the event runs from 6.30pm until 10.30pm, leaving plenty of time to continue partying on into the night (We recommend the Queen of Hoxton). And to ensure that you don’t leave the tub looking like wrinkly 90 year old sun worshipper, obvs.

   You may be thinking that a derelict factory in East London does not sound like a glamorous location for an Oscar-winning event. But it certainly is! So, grab your tickets now and have a tubbin’ good time! This is one cinema showing that you do not want to miss.

Film showings

27^th Feb - Austin Powers

28^th Feb - Grease

1^st March - Top Gun

2^nd March - Pulp Fiction

3^rd March - Dirty Dancing

4^th March - Labyrinth

5^th March - Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

For more info and to buy tickets, visit www.hottubcinema.com