Who. What. Where? No. 77
Any Stefflon Don fans in the building? This one’s for you. The former HUNGER cover star is set to release her long-awaited debut album, Island 54, this Friday, and to celebrate, she will be hosting an intimate release party at Lio London on the same day. With only 500 tickets available (£30 here), this exclusive and intimate event will offer fans an unforgettable night of never-heard-before tracks featuring live performances from Stefflon Don herself alongside some very special guests. “[Expect] more meaningful stuff because, as a person, I’m very big on important messages and reality,” the musician told HUNGER in 2023 when discussing the album’s content. Still, we’re sure there’ll be plenty of those party-ready bangers she’s known for. So, get yourself down there, enjoy the album, and let loose.
It really doesn’t get much better than having André 3000 and Sampha as your headliners, does it? These two legendary artists are just the beginning of an incredible lineup at We Out Here. The festival brings together a diverse array of talent, featuring artists and selectors who excel in soul, house, hip-hop, jazz, electronica, and much more. We Out Here is dedicated to celebrating club culture and showcasing the finest record collections from around the globe, all set against a backdrop of a whimsical wooded venue – what a dream! In an age where many festivals prioritise commercial interests, it’s refreshing to see one that truly emphasises the essence of music and community. Join We Out Here for an unforgettable experience in August. Tickets are selling like hotcakes, so don’t wait until the last minute! Get your tickets here
Milan Fashion Week may have ended, but for those of you sticking around in the Italian city looking to fill up your itinerary, Swarovski has just launched a new exhibition. Titled ‘Swarovski – Masters of Light’, the exhibition – envisioned by Swarovski Creative Director Giovanna Engelbert and curated by British fashion journalist and critic Alexander Fury – celebrates almost 130 years of the Austrian house’s heritage and influence across the worlds of fashion, jewellery, and pop culture. The exhibition features 50 crystal-embellished outfits designed by iconic houses, including Prada, Gucci, Vivienne Westwood, and more, many brought to Italy for their first ever public display. Plus, outfits worn by the likes of Madonna and Tina Turner will be on display, alongside an immersive journey from the birth of Swarovski in 19th century Vienna to 21st century Milan. For more information, click here.
For anyone interested in grassroots music and emerging talent, Volvic has partnered with popstar Anne-Marie and BST Hyde Park to uncover the UK’s best emerging musicians – and give them the chance to perform at The Birdcage Stage at the festival. Courtesy of Volvic and BST, winners will secure a coveted festival spot and unlock a once-in-a-lifetime artist package designed to kickstart the rising stars’ journey to fame. The package includes a recording studio session, a cash incentive, and an unforgettable festival experience with the full artist treatment. The shortlist for the competition comprises contemporary R&B artist Emili; soulful singer Lois Morgan Gay; powerhouse vocalist Ffion Rebecca; melodic master Sophie Griffiths; and singer-songwriter, producer, and musician Grace Davies. Be sure to check them all out, vote for your favourite here (closing on Thursday 20th June at 23.59), and keep an eye out for the winner announced on 24th June 2024.
Next up, some recommendations for all you foodies out there. Firstly, there’s Plaza Khao Gaeng, which celebrates Thai cooking with menus changing seasonally to focus on different regions in Southern Thailand. The menu features curries like beef shoulder massaman, mussel and coconut curry, braised pork belly with spices and dark soy sauce, as well as stir-fries like the dry wok-fried pork with chillies, deep-fried mackerel with chilli, makrut lime leaves and jungle herbs, and stir-fried bitter gourd with egg. To end the meal (there’s always room for dessert), guests can enjoy the pudding maprao ohn, a young coconut pudding with tapioca pearls and lychee, and the itim khanom pang, an ice cream ‘sandwich’ with pandan sticky rice, golden strands and peanuts.
If you’ve been stuck with the annoying job of organising your bestie’s birthday, or even worse, having to sort out a hen do, then the BAM Brunch at BAM Karaoke Box in Victoria is the answer to all your prayers. Get 90 minutes of food and free-flowing Prosecco while enjoying entertainment before heading to one of the karaoke boxes for two hours of singing – all this for £60 per head. Gorge on scrambled eggs, salmon or bacon flatbreads, croissant French toast and bottomless potato croquettes, while sipping on generous pours of fizz in the BAM BAM bar. The entertainment changes every week; this Saturday is the It’s Britney Brunch, followed by the Pride Brunch, and then West End, Kylie, Naughty 90s, and Hip Hop Brunches next month. The karaoke choices are super impressive, covering even the most niche of genres.
