As a neighbouring resident of Islington, surprisingly Saturday 5 May was my first experience of the famous Camden Crawl. On arrival to the heart of Camden Town, I was surrounded by the colourful atmosphere and quirky shops that make up the area. But it was the Holiday Inn that was my first stop, as I went to collect my much sought-after press pass.  My exclusive goody bag gave me free entry and queue jump! If that wasn’t enough, I got to see private performances from some of the acts. From then on, I had a feeling that the event was going to embody the spirit of Camden Town.

With my trusty flip map in hand, I set off to my first chosen venue. The Jazz Café played host to The Hip Hop Shakespeare Company.  Fronted by British MC Akala, the organisation performed their alternative take to the music genre. As the art form allows for expression, a mixture of live music coincided with musical theatre. We were entertained with rhymes that were loosely based on Shakespeare’s plays, as well as originally inspired content.  And since rapping is related to poetry, one act gave an intense and passionate rendition of his poem ‘Moments’ to music generated by the live band, whilst another provided the audience with an emotional tale of a character who contracted HIV, and it’s disastrous effects  to those around him.

At the Roundhouse came ‘one woman band’, Tanya Auclair. I was pleasantly surprised and impressed with her unique approach to music. She patiently played and recorded a sample of music, ranging from her own vocals to beat boxing, the guitar, keyboard and even wooden spoons for example. In turn, this supplied her with the soundtrack to her songs, which had an intricate, Electronica and ‘at peace with the Earth’ sound.

The Cuban was where I started the evening’s entertainment. Earlier the bar had put on Hula Hooping performances and master classes; however the night’s line up was in contrast to the carnival-like dressed acts, producing an urban menu to the festival’s showcase.  The Milk and Ghetts were my two favourite acts there. The Milk is an Essex quartet that vary from your usual indie band, considering that some of their songs were infused with a Motown, Soul and Reggae vibe. The crowd didn’t stop moving either, since the group insist on not taking breaks between each song.

For a different reason, Ghetts lit up the audience with his MCing and live band. His set offered a twist to usual MC performances, due to having a band. They also added a slight rock edge thanks to the electric guitar, whilst still managing to keep in sync with the authentic sounds of Grime music.

I wonder who’ll be performing at the Camden Crawl next year.

Win Tea For Two!

Volupté revives the quintessentially British tradition of afternoon tea – albeit a significantly boozier, burlesque one. Taking place every Saturday and Sunday, guests can expect heady concoctions such as Earl Grey with gin poured prohibition-style in teapots accompanied by burlesque and cabaret. Along with finger sandwiches, buttery scones and homemade cakes, it’s the perfect way to spend a languid afternoon.

To win tea for two with two pots of cocktails, simply write a review on Qype of your favourite place in the world to have tea and send the link of your review to QDL@Qype.com. Entries must be received before Tuesday 8th May at 9am.

On Easter Monday, I made a trip to trendy Carnaby St. This time however, I decided to bypass the latest gems that the shops had to offer (well, until after my visit). On arrival, I was transported to a tiny land, filled with furnishings of a garden vibe, only indoors. Thanks to Anonymous Artists Ltd and their marketing campaign for Monkey Shoulder whisky, it was time to begin the Easter egg hunt, or should I say whisky trail!

As I searched for an egg, I found myself rummaging through the various flower pots scented with strawberry and lemon grass fragrances, to name few. My next bet was to ruffle up the decoratively placed raw carrots, bell peppers, jars and leaves dispelled over the shelves. Ah! At last, I found what was a small yellow toned wooden egg and not a chocolate egg. With this at hand, I was set to exchange my treasure, with Monkey Shoulder whisky cocktails.

A variety of adventurous flavours were on offer, including Monkey Jam Sour, Rhubarb and Rose Julep, Banana and Sherry Fix, but I opted for a cocktail with a ginger and orange kick! Now here was what chocolate treats were in store, on this twist of Easter festivities. A selection of quirky handmade chocolates, ready to wash down with your beverage, consisted of; Coffee and Cardamom truffle, Ginger and Cayenne Pepper truffle, Masala Chai truffle, and hefty chunks of dark chocolate, of which I tried a mint version and an unforgettable flavour combining sea salt!

There was still more to explore whilst sipping away at my drink. A family of inventive wooden chairs took my fancy, as I sat down to be greeted by the sound of drums escaping from my bum! These musical seats incorporated a group of bells, symbols, the triangle and the trumpet. Other creative works showcased a wall sculpture of three monkeys, made up of grass and moss and a chandelier- esk collection of sphere shaped soil with herbs protruding from the top, dangling from the ceiling.

Back to more tasting now, since I was invited to drink Monkey Shoulder straight. Wow, what a taste! If you’re not in the mood to drink whisky by itself, there were various bottles of Apricot Brandy, Campari, Sherry and other alcoholic mixers, as suggestions to the vast concoctions available, for this versatile whisky. Lastly, a different tasting session, supplied from a strong aroma of chocolate and mint flower pots. I ate a leaf to verify the flavour. What an alternative menu for the Easter period.