THEGAYUK

Category: Review

  • THEATRE REVIEW | We Will Rock You, National Tour

    THEATRE REVIEW | We Will Rock You, National Tour

    ★★★ |We Will Rock You, National Tour

    WE WILL ROCK YOU by Elton, , Writer and Director – Ben Elton, Set Designer – Mark Fisher, Costume Designer – Tim Goodchild, Lighting designer – Willie Williams, Churchill Theatre, Bromley, UK, 2019, Credit: Johan Persson

    Set in a distant, dystopian future where musical instruments and composers are banned, where generic pop music is imposed on the public and rock music is all but unknown, a small group of “Bohemians” struggle to restore the idea of thought, fashion and, most importantly, rock music as they break free of the grip of the Killer Queen.

    Seventeen years after it opened, this theatrical juggernaut heads out on a theatre tour bringing with it some of Queen’s most iconic songs. The show is a full-on assault to the senses, with a set made up of giant screens displaying animated, projected backdrops, a colourful array of costumes and music and vocals so loud that the bass reverberates in your chest.

    During the first act, the songs come thick and fast, with the wafer-thin plot serving little more purpose other than linking one song to the next, but the second act yields a little more to the rather silly narrative whilst still packing in enough hits to keep you entertained.

    Such big songs require big voices and the two leads, Ian McIntosh and Elena Skye can certainly belt out the tunes, giving solid vocal performances; whilst audience favourite Michael McKell provided some excellent comic relief throughout.

    But the real stars here are the songs, and the show packs in all the Queen hits you are expecting. Despite a plot which is utter nonsense, We Will Rock You will have you rocking your way out of the theatre.

    We Will Rock You is currently at Sheffield Theatres before continuing on its national tour.

  • Corvyx: Planet 9

    Corvyx: Planet 9

    Since I first interviewed Corvyx 2 years ago, he has gone from strength to strength, Jumping from under 20,000 subscribers to over 63,000 now and while also headlining the 2017 Frightfest in Six Flags Amusement Park.

    So I was excited when he got in contact with me again recently to have an exclusive listen to his new original single Planet 9, due for release on October 4th.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B2fecH6FYow/

    Lauded for his brilliant cover songs, and recently being awarded as the 2019 winner of the Fandemonium award for Unsigned artists, Corvyx is releasing original material for the first time in 4 years. His last foray into original music, Become the Night has made way for a wildly different yet still very much with the aesthetic of a Corvyx music piece that will be a great listen for anyone who likes music to be a little more out there

    Describing his newest venture into original music, and named for the relegated ninth planet Pluto, in this sonic and visual body of work Corvyx parallels the barren wasteland of a forgotten planet to the aftermath of losing ‘star-crossed’ love. Recreating sound-waves sampled from Pluto, Corvyx found solace and companionship in the mournful cries of the ice planet using them to inspire ethereal and minimalistic verses paired with gut-wrenching, unorthodox lyrics. Anthemic in its nature, “Planet 9” is a record equal parts pain and power.
    Earthshaking cinematic drums engulf the Corvyx signature powerhouse vocals while juxtaposing the vulnerability of lyrics like “When planets aligned, it was you and I”. Known for his visionary prowess, Corvyx innovated a record that will rival the visuals of anything he has released prior. From Cloud 9 to Planet 9, we are all a little less human after we
    lose love of astronomical proportions. But we are not alone in this Universe and Corvyx’s newest single speaks the cosmic language that makes us certain there’s something greater than us all. Music.

    https://www.instagram.com/p/B3F8PLrAKBM/

    The Corvyx style is very much present, and I for one am looking forward to the accompanying music video that is sure to maintain the wonderfully visual and artistic vision that Corvyx is known for. So I would highly recommend checking out Planet 9 as soon as it’s released on digital download on October 4th.

    You can follow Corvyx on Instagram & Twitter and also subscribe to his YouTube channel to listen to his other music. You won’t be disappointed

  • FILM REVIEW | Fahrenheit 11/9

    ★★★ |Fahrenheit 11/9

    There’s a lot to take away from Michael Moore’s brand new documentary Fahrenheit 11/9 from the Flint Water Crisis, school gun violence the rise of Trump and how maybe the democrats aren’t as people-friendly as you might hope.

    It’s the day after watching Fahrenheit 11/9 and my mind is still whirling. Michael asks (of Trump’s presidency) at the beginning of the film, “How the fuck did we get here?” and it’s a question many are asking.

    But Moore’s troubling documentary takes us through history lessons and finds a way to link a number of big button issues and it doesn’t quite work, but you’ll be left with an uneasy feeling in the pit of your stomach.

    In the two hour and a bit film, Moore manages to squeeze in the water crisis in Flint Michigan, the Parkland School shooting, the Bernie Sander’s vote scandal, the teachers’ strike, President Obama’s undermining of US citizens, Bill Clinton’s republicifcation, The New York Times‘ political bubble and of course, the rise and rise of Donald Trump.

    It’s pretty full-on and you may be left with a sense of foreboding for the future of civilisation, but Moore doesn’t disappoint with the breadth of research undertaken for this documentary.

    Available to stream on Netflix.

  • CAR REVIEW | Fiat’s 500X For The Bigger City

    CAR REVIEW | Fiat’s 500X For The Bigger City

    CAR REVIEW | FIAT 500x

    What Have We Got

    Fiat’s big 500 crossover SUV has been with us now for over 5 years. 2019 saw some changes to the line-up along with some updates. The 4WD model is no longer offered and power comes from a choice of 3 and 4 cylinder petrol engines.

    THEGAYUK was given the 1-litre turbocharged 120hp Firefly engine in the Cross Look for a week. A more urban looking 500X with the chunky looking bits of an SUV.

    Driving

    The first thing to strike you about the new engine is its brio of power. On paper, it doesn’t appear spritely. In use, it really is. Keep it boiling at 3000rpm and you’ll find it useful. This way it is always ready for action the moment the pedal is pushed down. Anything less and it’s all a bit lethargic with a touch of lag.

    What helps making it go forward is the slick gear change. The clutch and gear action is a joy to slot around when you want to get a move on. And this is good. Recently we had the platform sharing Jeep Renegade in with a diesel engine. That didn’t encourage any form of enthusiasm. The Fiat set up high lights the joys of the chassis.

    What it can’t do however is mask the ride quality. In the city, it is simply too hard. And this translates into a choppy ride. You can’t have it all though. At speed, it becomes taught and agile. That said, however, at night on the motorway, you can see the headlight beams jiggling around.

    Inside

    For a relatively cheap SUV, prices from £18,500, it’s well put together. The front door cards are nicely contoured and there is storage for bottles and the like in both front and rear. The rears are a bit different in that they are made from hard sturdy plastic whereas the fronts have a soft touch feel to them as is the norm for this segment.

    It took me some time to find a suitable driving position.  You certainly can’t say there isn’t enough adjustment for the seats and steering wheel. There is a position for all body shapes. What hampered this was the front seats lack of both under-thigh and bottom support. They were a little flat.

    Living With It

    There are a few things that catch you out about the 500X. Firstly is its size. It feels much bigger from behind the wheel. You do tend to be over-cautious when fighting for space in the urban jungle. In actuality, it isn’t as big as you think. 

    This is also true of the boot. It’s not class leading and not totally useless but if you want your 500 to be a lot more useable than the 3 door city slicker from Fiat, this is for you.

    The verdict

    I wanted to like the 500X. There is much to enjoy about the new engine and the way it drives. It’s light and buzzy without feeling that you want more. Using the 6-speed manual gearbox is a joy and all the controls feel right. It is that ride that I find so disagreeable.

    You won’t drive it on every occasion with the spirit in which it can carry you. It’s illegal to travel at 70mph around town. So the rides sportier set up is somewhat pointless in this car.

    Speaking of 70mph, it would seem the traffic sign recognition sees everything as a 70mph challenge. 

    There were too many times it would show the national speed limit on the dashboard for it to be a one off. Perhaps this Fiat could do with a little bit of Abarth magic. It certainly feels like it wants to.

    Love

    Nippy 3 cylinder engine

    500 Looks

    Light controls

    Loathe

    Choppy Ride

    Slow to respond infotainment system.

    Seats

    The Lowdown

    Car –  Fiat 500x City Cross Firefly 

    Price – £22,100 (as tested)

    MPG – 48.7 mpg (combined)

    Power – 120hp @ 5750rpm

    0-62mph –   10.9 seconds

    Top Speed –  117 mph

    Co2 – 133 (g/km)

    (C) ALL PICTURES: Stuart Bird

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Mamma Mia! The Party, London

    THEATRE REVIEW | Mamma Mia! The Party, London

    ★★★★ | Mamma Mia! The Party, The 02

    ★★★★ | Mamma Mia! The Party, The 02

    Enter the world of ABBA, and Greece, by attending MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY at The O2 London – it’s the best in immersive theatre. And what a great idea!

    Yes, it’s the 02, but once you enter you are transported to a Greek-style courtyard (on the Greek island of Skopelos no less) where it will make you forget the horrific Jubilee Line ride that took you there.

    It’s a romantic courtyard that seats over 200 people with tables scattered on top of balconies, lower levels, stage level and the ground floor – surrounded by Greek-style leaves hanging down from the walls. And at the centrepiece of all this is the water fountain in the middle of the room. You have to see it to believe it – it literally stops you dead in your tracks when you enter the room where you automatically want to start snapping photos and selfies with you and your friends.

    But as it’s a party, there is food and drink involved, as well as great singing and dancing, performed by a cast that belongs in the West End! But it’s the East End – far from the West End, but never mind – for three hours you will forget this and suddenly Greek language will spew forth from your mouth.

    And the show that is performed right before your very eyes is the story of Nikos and his wife Kate who run this exotic and wonderful restaurant together with their family and friends. Told through dialogue and ABBA songs, it’s a warm, romantic and funny story which evolves and unfolds during the evening, taking place around the guests as they sit at their tables enjoying a delicious Greek meal. The evening ends with the main floor bring transformed into a 1970’s disco where audience members are welcome to stay and dance.

    On arrival, you’ll be greeted with a smile and a complimentary welcome cocktail, after which you are welcome to purchase drinks from the several taverna bars.

    The London cast includes Fed Zanni as Nikos, Steph Parry as Kate, Joanna Monro as Debbie, AJ Bentley as Adam, Julia Imbach as Konstantina, Elin König Andersson as Bella, Kimberly Powell as Nina, Pauline Stringer as Grandma, Gregor Stewart as Fernando, with Linda John-Pierre playing Debbie at certain performances and Allie Ho Chee playing Bella at certain performances.

    In between all this are yummy starters such a mezze selection followed by succulent meat dishes paired with tempting sides, and it all ends on a deliciously sweet note with authentic Greek desserts.

    Ticket prices start from £135 per person including VAT.

    This includes a welcome drink, a set four-course meal, a show and an ABBA disco at the end of the evening.

    There are different types of tickets to choose from: Premium, Band A, Band B, Band C (on some performances) and Band D. Premium and Band A ticket holders are seated at tables on the ground floor in the Courtyard and on the Terrace levels, and Band B and C ticket holders are seated at tables in the Terrace levels and Balcony. Band D seats, which offer a partially restricted view, are located in the Terrace levels.

    MAMMA MIA! THE PARTY has music and lyrics by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus (some songs with Stig Anderson), and a story by Calle Norlén, Roine Söderlundh and Björn Ulvaeus, adapted for the UK by writer, comedian and broadcaster Sandi Toksvig.

    However, there are three things that could be improved.
    1.) The queue. Arrive early as you will be waiting at least 30 minutes to get inside. Doors open at 18:30 (12:00 for daytime shows) but you definitely want to be seated sooner rather than later and before the food starts to arrive. Any later and you might miss the first course. Get there at 6 so you can be one of the first in, and then you can soak up the room before it fills up.
    2.) The heat inside the venue. We were very warm the whole night and didn’t feel any air. It could be cooler in the venue – perhaps they can create a nice beach breeze to make the too a bit more bearable and comfortable temperature-wise.
    3.) The food. We were a table of 4 and received the same portions of food as the single guy sitting at the next table (and he had the best seat in the house). If they can proportion the food according to the table size that would make much more sense.

    These quibbles are valid quibbles, but they won’t ruin your night. And while the show is not cheap (prices from £130 to £218) you will get your money’s worth, whether or not you like/love ABBA. ‘You are my Dancing Queen…..’.

  • THEATRE REVIEW | Big the Musical, London

    THEATRE REVIEW | Big the Musical, London

    ★★★★ | Big the Musical, Dominion  Theatre

    Big the movie was such a hit when it was released in 1988 as it brought out the inner child in all of us. Big the Musical, which just opened at London’s Dominion Theatre, doesn’t quite do the same.
     
    Playing for a short 9-week run, Big the Musical doesn’t bring the films magic to the stage, but it is, nonetheless, a show of pure fun where the audience is expected to believe there is an actual boy on stage in a man’s body who wants to be a boy again.
     
    The man, played by a charming Jay McGuiness (last seen in the awful Rip it Up). He wishes he was grown up so one day he encounters a Zoltar machine who grants him his wish, and he then finds himself trapped inside a man’s body. He is no longer recognised by his mom (Wendi Peters), nor by his next-door neighbour and best friend Billy.
     
    By sheer luck, and by being at the right place at the right time, he gets a job at a toy company where he has to act like an adult but still maintain his childlike innocence. He charms people at the office, including co-worker Susan (Kimberly Walsh) and his boss Mr McMillan (Matthew Kelly), where he is expected, along with the rest of the employees, to come up with a new Christmas toy. The Zoltar has given him 40 days to remain a man. Will that give him enough time to develop the toy and perhaps a grown-up relationship with Susan? Or does he long for his simple boyhood days?
     
    While there is not one memorable song in the show (not very good for a musical as big as Big), the actors all do their best and ultimately succeed.
     
    McGuiness is well-cast as Baskin (while several very good actors briefly play the young Josh and Billy), and Walsh is perfectly cast as the co-worker/love interest. With music by David Shire and lyrics by Richard Maltby, and a book by John Weidman and direction and choreography by Morgan Young, they all have a huge stage to fill at the Dominion Theatre, and they do.
     
    And the art and set directors successfully manage to fill it with carefully erected sets which include Josh and Billy’s homes (including Josh’s bedroom), the office, the carnival and a ballroom for the company party. But don’t expect to be humming any memorable tunes after it’s over. But you will have memories of a fun and good night out, but not necessarily a ‘big’ night out. 
     
    Big The Musical plays at the Dominion Theatre until 2nd November 2019. Book tickets here.
     
  • Isuzu D-Max XTR – an extreme lifestyle

    Isuzu D-Max XTR – an extreme lifestyle

    Isuzu is the oldest Japanese commercial vehicle manufacturer. They’ve been manufacturing vehicles since 1916. 

    In the UK they are known for their tough, hardworking, dependable commercial vehicles, predominantly pickups.

    In recent years become more practical, more comfortable and nicer to drive. This was helped by the continually increasing company car users tax bills and the fact that a pickup is a commercial vehicle and as such, attracts a low, flat rate of tax for the user.

    This has led to a whole new category being spawned; lifestyle.

    A lifestyle pickup is a vehicle that is like a luxury 4×4 inside but has the practicality of a pickup. Just about every manufacturer has a toe in this water and has a lifestyle variant in their range. 

    Isuzu have a couple of contenders that fall into the lifestyle arena; the awesome D-Max AT35 Arctic truck and the D-Max Blade.

    The AT35 is really the top of the tree, and too extreme for most, whilst the Blade is very nice, very well engineering with great driving manners and equipment if a bit subtle. 

    To capitalise on the lifestyle sector, Isuzu has created their secret weapon. It’s called the XTR. 

    This is a UK exclusive model and is aimed squarely at those customers who like to personalise and modify their trucks. Aftermarket modifications are a big thing with many customers opting for wide arches, sidesteps, suspension modifications and much more. As a result, there are now a plethora of companies that offer drive in, drive out services. 

    Think of Isuzu’s XTR as a factory modified truck. That means that all of the components used are certified, tested, safe and warrantied. 

    I was invited to test the XTR on the UK launch……and test it I did.

    Our first leg was a 20-minute road drive to familiarise us with the truck. I’ve driven quite a few pickups and love them. Generally, they offer the road manners of a 4×4 but with the practicality of a pickup. Gone are the days of a harsh, utilitarian work tool. 

    We arrived at the first off-road section in the pouring rain.  This was a wood somewhere in North Wales. 

    Now, I’ve done a bit of off-roading over the years but this was another level. 

    We were guided through a very serious and challenging off-road route that took the XTR to, and past, its limits. 

    Rain had pounded the track making it a treacherous and precarious route. 

    We experienced everything from inclined, hairpin turns that lifted wheels, to fallen trees and hidden tree stumps that threatened to break the axles. Deep mud and pools of water meant that grip was hard to find and the XTR slipped and slithered along the track, often in mud so deep it was resting on the sturdy side steps. 

    With patients, technique and guidance, we made it through, demonstrating very well how unbelievable this thing is off-road. 

    From the woods, we headed to an old quarry for a different kind of off-road experience. 

    This was an old slate quarry so slippery, and with a surface that moved and changed as you travel over it. Large rocks, small sharp shards of slate and everything in between. Here we traversed some very steep inclines and declines that really tested the hill descent, off-road traction control and low range gearbox to the limit.

    Some of the drops were so sleep I had to brace myself against the windscreen while the rear axle went light. 

    I can honestly say the off-road capability of the D-Max XTR is incredible. It left me speechless (apart from several expletives I won’t mention here). 

    I mentioned before that Isuzu’s XTR is here to compete with the aftermarket custom builders. In this sector Image and customisation are key. Isuzu has met these objectives head-on with sophisticated and aggressive styling, Increased capability and bespoke specification. This is a factory custom pickup with handpicked custom and performance parts. 

    Externally there is an aggressive body kit consisting of a front bumper guard, bonnet protector, headlight surrounds and big wheel arch extensions.

    A new rear bumper and light frames and raptor coated tailgate spoiler. Decals are optional but I like them and the bigger the better. There are also some cool, unique and durable new side steps.

    Isuzu has carefully selected some very cool and serious upgrades for the XTR; Pedders lifted suspension and brakes with green springs and callipers, a new rear anti-roll bar and vented and slotted front brake discs with kevlar ceramic pads. 

    The longer suspension articulation means they had to design a new top wishbone to ensure the geometry worked. 

    It’s this kind of engineering that sets the XTR apart from aftermarket modified vehicles.

    The suspension is set up with springs and shock absorbers tuned for a more comfortable and refined ride. 

    17” bespoke XTR alloy wheels wrapped in 32″  Pirelli Scorpion™ all-terrain plus tyres do a brilliant job on and off-road.

    Inside there are leather and suede bespoke XTR heated seats, infotainment system and everything you would expect from a luxury SUV. It’s a lovely place to be.

    It’s no secret that I’m a fan of a good pickup. I really like the way they drive, you feel safe and people give you room. You’re not constantly pressured and bullied by other road users. 

    The XTR is well equipped, incredibly capable, it looks fantastic and is well priced, starting at £33,999 CVOTR.

    You can have a manual or auto. I prefer manual off-road but auto on the road. 

    Isuzu has created a secret weapon for sure here. It’s a serious piece of kit and I expect will sell very well. It deserves to.

  • Theatre Review | Northern Ballet’s Cinderella – National Tour

    Theatre Review | Northern Ballet’s Cinderella – National Tour

    Northern Ballet dancer Hironao Takahashi in David Nixon OBE’s Cinderella. Photo Emma Kauldhar

    ★★★★ |Northern Ballet’s Cinderella

    Northern Ballet continues to delight with a charming retelling of a classic fairy story. Cinderella leads a life of servitude to her wicked stepmother but escapes her life by sneaking out, where she encounters a magician who is more than meets the eye. When Cinderella is left home alone on the night of the Prince’s ball, the Magician appears to transform her into a princess; as she and the Prince meet and fall in love, the clock strikes twelve and Cinderella flees, leaving only a glass slipper behind.  

    Sometimes, such familiar stories can feel laboured and over-familiar but Northern Ballet injects new life into the traditional fairy tale by putting in enough fresh ideas to add something new, without ever detracting from the familiar narrative.  Transporting the story to Russia whilst adding in an expanded narrative and a scattering of magic tricks and circus skills, the company presents something just a little different, but with its roots firmly planted in well-known story.

    Mlindi Kulashe delighted the audience with a comedic performance as the magician, and Abigail Prudames charmed as the titular heroine; both of whom stood out from a company who gave universally solid performances.

    Where Cinderella really succeeds is in its simplicity. The choreography is so clear in delivering the narrative, it allows you to simply sit back and enjoy the performances. There are sufficient magical moments to maintain its fairy tale status whilst allowing the dance to take centre stage, and the lavish new costumes, some new sets and the live orchestra only adds to the atmosphere of this production.

    Whether you are looking for a family orientated evening at the theatre, or for something to start to get you in the festive mood, Cinderella is an engaging ballet which works its magic on you by radiating a feel-good warmth and familiarity.

    Northern Ballet’s Cinderella is playing at Sheffield Theatres until 28th September 2019 before continuing on its national tour; whilst their production of Dracula will be beamed live into selected cinemas on Halloween

  • Energica EVA EsseEsse9 – The future is here

    Energica EVA EsseEsse9 – The future is here

    Old Empire Motorcycles was founded in 2010 through an absolute and enduring passion for everything two-wheeled. It’s one of the coolest and most respected custom motorcycle builders in the UK.

    They create a handful of one-off custom bikes annually, some of the most beautiful and innovative custom motorcycles in the UK. So beautiful in fact, they have been exhibited at Harrods London and at the Saatchi Gallery and won numerous awards from titles such as; Silodrome, Pipeburn, MCN and Cafe Racer TV plus they won the coveted Malle Mile Best of show. They have even won a Salon Privé award.

    A couple of years ago, Alec, the owner of Old Empire, embarked on a new venture, English Electric Motor Co or EEMC.

    EEMC is now one of Europe’s premier electric motorcycle retailers, yes electric motorcycles. Electric motorcycle sales are going through the roof. By the end of the 1st quarter 2019, registrations of electric mopeds, motorcycles and quadricycles were up by 71% in Europe. Ok, so the number is still pretty small but growing very fast. 

    EEMC has jumped in with both feet and are taking the bull by the horns. 

    I received an invite to try some of their bikes recently so I thought I’d go and see what all the fuss was about. 

    They laid on a range of their electric motorcycles to try. I could go on all day about them all so, long story short, I’ll tell you about the top of the range, the Energica EVA EsseEsse9.

    It’s a naked bike, I guess like an Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 factory or Yamaha MT-10 SP. 

    As you can see, there’s no fairing, and you sit fairly upright. It’s all pretty typical. It looks slightly unconventional, with a battery pack and motor where the engine would usually sit, but other than that, it’s pretty familiar stuff.

    Energicas EVA EsseEsse9 makes 110 bhp which isn’t bad, however, it makes 180nm torque. An Aprilia Tuono V4 1100 factory, the benchmark naked bike, only makes 120nm torque. 

    Suspension is top of the line, quality stuff. Marzocchi 43 mm, fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping.

    At the rear there’s a very nice Bitubo rear mono shock, also fully adjustable for preload, compression and rebound damping. It’s a quality setup and does a brilliant job.  

    Brakes are very impressive. Brembo front and rear with awesome feel and very strong.

    Front brakes are Brembo double floating 330mm discs with big 4 pistons radial callipers.

    The rear brake is a single 240mm disc with 2 piston calliper.

    Tyres are Pirelli Phantom which are a good all-rounder but I would consider something more performance-oriented personally. The front is pretty typical 120/70 ZR17 and the rear is 180/55 ZR17. 

    As is typical on top-end motorcycles, there are a host of electronics.

    Switchable Bosch ABS is standard and there are 4 Riding Modes: Eco, Urban, Rain, Sport.

    Energica, like some other electric motorcycles and cars, have regenerative braking. This generates electricity when you are on overrun or braking. It genuinely makes a difference too. I saw the battery % rise a couple of times! Regenerative braking is adjustable on this bike; 4 regenerative maps: Low, Medium, High, Off.

    Advanced traction control has six levels of intervention so you can dial it right back if you’re brave. Cruise control is standard too and uses the electronic brake to maintain speed and increase braking energy.

    A couple of the key differences between the Energica EVA EsseEsse9 on the competition are the oil cooled electric motor, meaning the motor temperature is controlled and there is less chance of thermal overload under heavy load. The controlled is water cooled for the same reason. 

    That’s all great but what’s it like to ride?

    Honestly, it’s amazing. 

    The cycle parts are all excellent. Brakes, suspension and steering are all superb. This bike corners hard and stops very well. 

    When you first pull off it’s pretty odd. More or less silent apart from some electric motor whine which is more pronounced on the Energica than on some other electric motorcycles. It has a chain drive too rather than the belt drive on most competitor bikes. I certainly feel safer with a chain taking 190Nm torque. 

    There are no gears and no clutch so you just twist and go…..and it really goes.

    Acceleration is breathtaking and relentless. 

    On the Energica EVA EsseEsse9, from the moment you twist the throttle, you have maximum torque. It’s the way electric motors deliver their power. 

    It means that every time you accelerate, you have an unrelenting, jaw-dropping acceleration. It just doesn’t stop. 

    Overtaking a car, for example, just wait for a gap, snap the throttle open and hold on’

    A conventional bike would have to change down a gear or two which takes precious seconds. In no time, the Energica is just a dot on the horizon. It’s like you’re always in the right gear at the right revs. 

    It accelerates as hard at 80 mph as it does at 40 mph too. It’s like nothing you’ve ever ridden. 

    It is absolutely brilliant and completely addictive. Accelerating out of corners, away from lights, in fact anywhere, it’s outrageous. I doubt many conventional bikes could live with it. 

    The two main criticisms of electric motorcycles are usually the lack of noise, and range/charging Infrastructure. 

    Noise is a double-edged sword. Anti-noise pollution legislation is becoming increasingly stringent, but it’s not an issue on an electric motorcycle. 

    Riding through a local village, I was completely unheard and didn’t interrupt anyone’s day. The same goes for track days; no issues with noise pollution if you’re on an electric bike.

    However, On a quiet country road, I passed some dog walkers and cyclists. Neither heard me coming until I was basically on them. 

    As for charging, the Energica with recharge from 0-85% in just 20 min with a level 3 34kW fast charger. Or you can charge 0-100% on a level 2 charger in 3.5hrs. 

    With a full charge, you can get around 70-120 miles, depending how you ride. Motorways on high load, higher speeds use more battery power and around town and on b road blasts, you get much more range.

    What about the cost? 

    It’s not cheap. You need to factor in that this is a very well built motorcycle with top quality components. You also need to remember you have very low running costs as there are hardly any moving parts, but most significantly, you don’t have to buy petrol ever again.

    The EsseEsse9 Standard is £20999 OTR* (*includes £1500 government subsidy)

    The EsseEsse9 Special is £21999 OTR* (*includes £1500 government subsidy) English Electric Motor Co have a demonstrator EsseEsse9 Standard for sale at the moment with only 960 miles on it for just £18990 (0% finance available)

    If this is the future then I can’t wait. It’s brilliant. 

    I would recommend anyone goes to their local dealer for a chat and a ride. In the UK give English Electric Motor Co a call. They’re awesome and really friendly. 

    English Electric Motor co

    Twitter; https://twitter.com/EngElecMotCo

    Instagram; https://www.instagram.com/englishelectricmotorco/

  • CAR REVIEW | Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – Too good to be true?

    CAR REVIEW | Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV – Too good to be true?

    ★★★★★ | Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV

    With increasingly stringent legislation, manufacturers are being squeezed and challenged to meet changing goals for reduced emissions and an ever more environmentally friendly footprint.

    By January 2018 there were more than 100,000 Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV sales across Europe, making it the most popular plug-in vehicle. In fact, despite a growing number of competitors, it remains the best-selling plug-in vehicle – hybrid or electric – in the UK.

    Which brings me to the next point.
    For the layman, the hybrid sector is a little confusing. There are several different types. Self-charging, plugin, parallel, range-extended and more.

    Mitsubishi have a very interesting way of delivering their Hybrid solution.

    The Outlander PHEV has an electric motor for each axle. That means one motor powers the rear wheels, one powers the front wheels, so 4X4.

    Electricity for these motors comes from either the battery, which ideally should be charged from the mains for maximum efficiency, or can be charged by the engine while you are driving (not very efficient though). When you are driving, if you use up all of the battery power, or you need more power than the battery can supply (say an overtake or spirited drive) the engine kicks in and generates more electricity. In extreme cases, if you accelerate hard or really labour the vehicle, the engine will also provide drive to the front wheels to assist the electric motors.

    The petrol engine is a 2.4-litre petrol engine, which uses MIVEC variable valve timing system. It’s very quiet and smooth and is surprisingly efficient.

    The battery capacity has been increased and is now 13.8kWh and in electric-only mode, the Outlander will now do 84mph on a private road.

    Another interesting feature is that it has only one forward gear as it is essentially an electric drivetrain. This means progress is seamless and driving it is absolute simplicity.

    In electric-only mode, in real-world driving conditions, the Outlander should do up to 28 miles on a charge. It doesn’t sound like much, but remember that this is a hybrid and this is more than enough for a lot of people’s daily commute.

    The theory is, you charge up on cheap electricity overnight, drive to work, charge up at work, usually for free (if you need to) and drive home, all on electric only. On longer journies, you can travel without range anxiety as you have the security of the petrol engine to generate power.

    It’s not uncommon for owners to go months without having to top up the petrol tank, as most of their journeys are fully electric, or mostly electric.

    What’s the Mitsubishi Outlander like?
    In brief, it’s a very well-engineered, well built, roomy and practical, luxury SUV.

    The current model has had a host of improvements and additions, making it a beautiful car, very well appointed.

    The updated Outlander benefits from new LED headlamps and all-new 18” alloy wheel design as well as super-All Wheel Control system with new SNOW and SPORT driving modes.

    Higher body rigidity through the use of structural adhesive welding plus a quicker steering rack with SPORT mode remapping means improved handling and safety. There are larger front brake discs (vented) for improved feel and stopping power too.


    As you would expect there are a full suite of advanced safety features and technologies, such as;

    Five-star NCAP safety rating, Automatic headlamps, Rain-sensing wipers, Reversing camera,
    Electronic handbrake with auto hold. There are also excellent LED headlights and daylight running lights with automatic high-beam, a very effective 360-degree camera with rear cross-traffic alert, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, blind-spot warning system with lane-change assist and even more.

    With this level of electronic assistance, it would seem like the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV might be a bit cold and emotionless but actually, despite all of the electronics, it’s very easy to drive and feels very familiar. You don’t notice any intrusion and I found I felt instantly at home driving it.
    The luxurious Interior was a very nice place to be with quality leather and high-grade plastic throughout.
    Our test car had gunmetal grey leather seats with 8-way electric adjusted front driver’s seat and matching door upholstery and centre armrest, premium Alpine audio system with remote smartphone app compatibility (apple carplay and android auto), heated front and rear seats, power tailgate and heated steering wheel.

    In summary, it’s hard to review the Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV because there is so much to it.

    This is not a straightforward luxury car review. The PHEV side of the vehicle is so clever and well-engineered and has some significant benefits over a conventional car or SUV. It’s not a one size fits all car. If you are a high mileage driver, this probably isn’t the best choice for you. However, in most other respects, the Outlander PHEV offers some great benefits. During our time with the car, we genuinely saw well over 200mpg averages. That’s not fake journalist talk either. The batteries were charged and we were driving the car as we normally would. Over a couple of days of running kids around, commuting to work and usual duties like shopping and so on, we regularly saw 200+mpg journeys. It really showed how effective this Outlander PHEV is if used correctly. Obviously, many journeys are completely petrol free.

    I would strongly urge you to call into your local dealer and arrange a test drive. The staff will talk you through the technology and the Hybrid powertrain and I’m sure you will be very impressed.
    Prices start at £36,755

  • REVIEWED | Queeriosity Manchester

    REVIEWED | Queeriosity Manchester

    ★★★★ | There’s a new show in town and it’s queer and curious.

    I was excited to go along to a brand new cabaret in Manchester on Saturday night, Queeriosity. It’s going to be held weekly every Saturday at Void/Kiki in Canal Street, Manchester and what’s even better is it’s free entry.

     

    It was the first show on Saturday 14th of September, and I must say I was suitably impressed by what was on offer. I was lucky enough to speak to creator of the show Donna Trump to ask what inspired her to bring this new show to Manchester and she told me “Yes it’s something new and different but you know, it’s something not to be missed. I want to unearth the world of cabaret as it’s known in Manchester. Give everyone a taste of something different. We have great cabaret in Manchester already existing and I just want to show people another wonderful side of it too” and show it they did.

    There’s going to be rotating cast and guest performers so each show will be something new and different, with new performances every week with at least 4 performers every week. And if week one is anything to go by, these performers will give it their all to entertain people. All the artists on stage gave it 110% and I could tell all of them really enjoyed what they were doing. But it really wasn’t a standard drag queen show. There was spoken word comedy lipsync, high energy burlesque style and a drag king lipsynching to Hercules songs. I laughed, I cheered and I came away very happy. I have very high hopes that this show will be something amazing. What seems to set this aside is that this is a passion project of Donna and the artists involved and one feels that having a new show like this could certainly help revive the scene in Canal Street. The other great thing is that people are utterly free to come as they feel comfortable. I saw, drag kings and queens, genderfluid people, pups, and every other kind of LGBTQ+ & ally person there and no one gave two hoots as long as you were having a good time. It felt like a very welcoming and safe environment to just kick back and enjoy.

    The whole show felt fresh and fun and everyone watching on Saturday really got into it, and seeing the reaction of Donna to the cheers she got at the end shows just how invested she is in this cabaret. I wish her all the luck in taking this forward and I cannot wait to see what she and the other performers come up with next

    So if you find yourself in Canal Street on a Saturday night, I would highly recommend a visit to see Queeriosity, the new curious cabaret.

    Social Media is linked below.

    Queeriosity

    Donna Trump

    Coco DeVille

    Cherry Valentine

    Christian Gay

    The Vicars Daughter

    Ellen DeGenerate

    Julie Noted