Counterpart is both a sculpture and a bench. And no matter how you look at it, it’s unlike anything you’ve ever seen. Designed for a prestigious commission, this iconic work by the British artist Tom Price has since inspired a collection of one-of-a-kind pieces that lie somewhere between art and design.
By Joseph Low
Tom Price with one of his most recent works, Synthesis L4 (2021, mural and light sculpture)
Tom Price has been centring his creative practice around materials since his studies at the prestigious Royal College of Art, which was under the direction of Ron Arad at the time. He works with all kinds of materials, from the most conventional to the totally novel, and brings the passion of a veritable alchemist to his experimentation. “Presence & Absence,” his 2014 solo exhibition at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, brought his boldness and virtuosity in this field to public attention. In the exhibition, he presented a series of human figures, cast in coal, in various stages of decomposition. “I started working with coal when I became fascinated with the ash-encrusted body casts of victims of the volcanic eruption in Pompeii. I wanted to create something in response to a phrase I heard about people from Herculaneum (a town closer in proximity to the volcano) being ‘instantly carbonized’ by the intense heat.”
Two works from the series “The Presence of Absence,” exhibited at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City in 2014.
He is also interested in resin, particularly in its interaction with tar: “The two couldn’t be much more opposite in appearance. But when they’re combined, they produce something quite magical.” A commission from Chatsworth House provided the opportunity to combine these experiments to create one piece, which has come to represent his work as a whole.
Chatsworth House, in England, is home to a remarkable art collection amassed by the Dukes of Devonshire over sixteen generations. In 2015, the estate held an exhibition of contemporary seating under the title “Make Yourself Comfortable,” featuring iconic pieces by the likes of Marc Newson, Maarten Baas, and Johnny Swing. Seeking to highlight the most experimental approaches, curator Hannah Obee commissioned works for the occasion from several artists, all inspired by the site’s history and its collections. Tom Price, one of the commissioned artists, recalls that “there was a very simple brief. Basically, come to visit Chatsworth House and find something that in some way will inspire the design and creation of seating.”
Counterpart, by Tom Price. Image: Chatsworth House Trust
He designed two benches with identical measurements: simple blocks with minimalist lines, each 2.2 metres in length. The connection with Chatsworth House lies in the choice of materials. One of the benches is made of coal, referencing the coal mines once owned by the family; the second, made of crystalline light-reflecting resin, pays tribute to the mineral collection started by Duchess Georgiana in the eighteenth century.
The dark, matte surface of coal is in dialogue here with the transparency of resin, which appears to glow thanks to a built-in lighting system. This radiant effect spectacularly showcases the jade, turquoise, and gold hues produced by the unusual pairing of resin and tar.
The work’s title, Counterpart clearly refers to the dialogue created when these two blocks are placed side by side. However, the artist also sees a connection between his work and the beauty of the pedestals on which he has viewed classical statues: “It was also intended as an homage to the humble plinth, which I saw as the counterpart to the sculptures they supported. When viewed in isolation, the blocks take on the role of protagonist and demand attention, but as soon as they are sat on, they become functional and assume a supporting role to the person who is sitting on them.”
Counterpart II, by Tom Price. Image: Javi de Esteban
Counterpart provides an ideal illustration of Tom Price’s artistic approach, which can be likened to that of a scientist who experiments, observes, and makes research progress by learning from his failures. Each piece is also a testament to his unique ability to design works that captivate the viewer with the simplicity of their line, their minimalistic elegance, and their hybrid nature as artworks and functional pieces, depending on the way spectators choose to interact with them.
New Trends in Perfumery Reveal a New Age of Parfum d’Exception
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“Parfum d’exception” is a highly dynamic segment of perfumery that is typified by an emphasis on the signature, the bespoke, the artisanal and the exclusive.
By Johanna Monange
Image: Maison 21G
Enriched by centuries of artistry and expertise, the world of perfumery is one immersed in secrecy, tradition and artisanal values. For those who love fine fragrances, discovering a perfume that speaks to your soul is a precious moment — such scents become extensions of the personality, capable of communicating so much about the wearer in myriad subtle and multisensory ways.
Despite its closely guarded heritage and illusions of old-fashioned luxury values, perfumery is subject to the same whims of fashion, changing trends and evolving landscape as any other industry. However, the past few years have seen perfumery trends transforming the scene like never before, with consumers worldwide driving forward new concepts which have been heard loud and clear by the world’s biggest fragrance brands, as well as a number of smaller boutique producers keen to ride the winds of change.
Maison 21G, the Parisian house of bespoke Haute couture perfumery, has built a unique business model upon this changing landscape. Reflecting profound new ideas of what the perfume industry should be for a new generation, it’s a fascinating time to explore the latest trends in the world of scent, and consider what they tell us about the demands and expectations of an awakened audience; those who are seeking more from their beloved brands.
Be bold and get inspired by the latest trends to make your own exclusive scent.
According to Maison 21G founder and visionary scent designer Johanna Monange, the perfume industry — while still imbued in the time-honoured values of luxury, opulence and sophistication — is rapidly embracing trends which put the individual and experience first.
She claims this is best exemplified by the rise of “Parfum d’Exception” — a highly dynamic segment of perfumery that is typified by an emphasis on the signature, the bespoke, the artisanal and the exclusive. Simply put, today’s savvy perfume consumers are increasingly disillusioned by the off-the-shelf brands created with mass appeal in mind. More so than ever before, individuals wish to purchase scents with a niche appeal, made from rare and precious ingredients in smaller or limited quantities.
The evidence for this sea of change in perfumery is everywhere. The world’s biggest perfume groups have invested considerably into acquiring or creating haute perfumery brands, formulating unique exclusive collections under labels designed to appeal to more selective audiences.
From Puig’s acquisition of Penhaligon’s, and more recently Byredo, to LVMH with Maison Francis Kurdjan, and from Manzanita Capital’s success with Diptyque to Estee Lauder with Tom Ford, Le Labo and Frederic Malle, the rise in these boutique labels and their rapidly-ascending popularity is far from insignificant. It speaks strongly of a new generation of perfume fans looking to make their mark via the scents they choose, and a willingness to develop their own individual “scent wardrobes” to reflect their changing moods, different sides of themselves, the exploration of new ingredients, and their attraction to the unique and experiential.
Storytelling Through Scent
It’s increasingly well-understood that millennial and Gen Z consumers value authenticity, sustainability and experience above all things, and this enthusiasm for unique ingredients, craftsmanship and personalisation informs so much of their consumer choices.
Perfumery has the power to weave stories through scent, revealing facets of personality and communicating moods, as well as showcasing the unique aspects of one’s individual tastes. More so than ever, consumers in the 21st century are selecting their perfumes based upon these criteria — seeking out fragrances that enhance aspects of themselves, mark them out from the crowd, and unveil their true spirits in ways that mass-produced, common denominator-baiting releases could never possibly achieve.
In many ways, this is perhaps the most significant of all the current perfumery trends across the globe today. Bringing experiential consumerism into the world of scent — either through selecting from limited-edition releases, artisan-made fragrances, or creating signature scents at personalised perfumery houses like Maison 21G — is separating millennial and Gen Z audiences from those who came before.
It also goes to explain how and why consumers today are selecting scents made from different — often unusual and rare — ingredients than those which came before. Market analysts in the world of perfume have noticed a significant uptick in the popularity of perfumes made to express the true nature of exotic woods (such as cedar, oud, vetiver and sandalwood), deeply sensual and mystical ingredients including incense, cannabis, myhrre and amber, and new floral notes such as osmanthus, frangipani or gardenia which have moved out of the niche and more into the public consciousness.
Goodbye, Gender Separation
It’s impossible to ignore or overlook the significance of the shift in attitudes towards gender, identity and sexuality in the 21st century — a revolution in self-expression is underway like never before, and it’s rapidly changing the perfumery landscape and the scents new audiences are drawn to.
Simply put, for a sizeable proportion of millennial and gen Z consumers, the gender separation in perfumery (the classic Pour Femme and Pour Homme divide) is obsolete. As in the world of fashion, boutique and bespoke perfumes have rid themselves of gendered divides, celebrating more gender-neutral and versatile ingredients beloved by every and all genders, as found at Maison21G with their innovative gender-fluid scent bar.
These are centred around aquatic and fluid, natural citrus green notes, sensual and florals that revel in sexual dynamism, exotic woods, intensely leathery or resinous ambery notes. Prized for their flexibility and capable of bringing out fascinating facets of men and women wearers alike, it’s an exciting time for so many precious ingredients to shine like never before.
The Asian Powerhouse of Change
Asian perfumery has a long and proud history, with artisans in China pioneering the use of countless ingredients throughout the ages that still form a cornerstone of fragrance today.
In the 21st century, Asian olfactive trends continue to play a key role in the way perfumery is changing worldwide, and the Chinese market, in particular, has awakened to a new age of scent… with bespoke, exclusive and unique ingredients taking centre stage.
The types of ingredients currently being selected by sophisticated consumers in China have revealed a fascinating — and trendsetting — insight into current perfumery trends in Asia. Chinese perfume fans are opting for perfumes that exude plenty of purity (typified by essences including vibrant citrus notes as well as ozonic characteristics, tea inflections, fluid floral extracts of gardenia, orris, muguet and white musk, and marine notes with plenty of minerality), simple natural characteristics of rose, peony and vegetal flourishes, and smoky and creamy woods and spices.
There are plenty of emerging notes coming to the foreground in contemporary Chinese perfumery too, signalling an innovative approach that sets these scents apart from the norm. Addictive new fragrances featuring notes of pine, fruits such as watermelon and peach, Cognac and other spirits, inky inflections, forest fragrances and soya are all becoming part of the modern Chinese perfumery palette.
A Sustainable Model for a Brighter Future
The other identifiable trend in contemporary perfumery? Sustainability, and perfume with a clearer conscience.
Today’s consumers are more aware than any that have come before when it comes to ecological issues, reducing one’s footprint, and selecting brands based upon their sustainable credentials. It’s a factor that many of the larger brands — so set in their ways, and with systems in place designed to cut corners, reduce costs, and mass produce — are struggling to keep up with.
Smaller boutique brands, on the other hand, have leapt at the opportunity to reshape their industry with transparency and sustainability at their core. From insisting on recyclable and reusable packaging and bottles, to setting up ethical supply chains with trusted producers of perfumery ingredients, these factors are far more than gestures or the adoption of a trend: they’re a new model for a brighter, cleaner and safer perfumery scene, protecting its most precious assets for the generations to come. This is the new vision of perfumery that Maison 21G has fought for since its first day of creation.
Hand in hand with this commitment to sustainability is a dedication to producing “cleaner” perfumes, too. Maison 21G, which is pioneering in its promise of CMR-free, phthalates-free, preservative-free, vegan and cruelty-free perfumes, are being enthusiastically embraced by a new generation of fragrance fans. It’s a key crossover point between the worlds of scent and wellness — consumers today demand the highest quality from their chosen brands, and a significant aspect of this comes down to feeling their safety and wellbeing is at the heart of a perfume brand’s promise.
New Trends Create New Futures
Trends — in the world of perfumery, as well as in all other industries — have a tendency to come and go. However, when a trend is based upon a greater good rather than on the frivolities, it has the power to transform industries and mindsets, forming a new world in its image.
By breaking down barriers that divide genders, by championing individuality and expression, and by insisting on safer, more sustainable practices and standards for quality and ecology, the nature of Parfum d’Exception signals a brighter perfumery industry for all.
The future isn’t just golden… It boasts the sweet scent of liberation and self-expression.
To get the latest updates on Maison 21G, do follow the Instagram @maison21g or Tiktok @maison21gparis.
Amber Lounge, the World’s Most Luxurious Formula 1 After-party Returns to Singapore
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Happening between 1 and 2 October, Singapore’s nightlife revs back to life in an exclusive party along Fullerton Heritage precinct.
By Joseph Low
Image: Amber Lounge
With the return of the high-anticipated Singapore Formula 1 Grand Prix comes the world’s most exclusive after-party, Amber Lounge, which will take centre stage during the racing weekend of 1 and 2 October. This extravagant affair will see world-class acts taking the helm alongside free-flowing champagne and cocktails by award-winning bartenders. There will also be brand new ultra-exclusive suit concepts that will ensure an unforgettable experience.
The luxuriant post-race event will be held within the Fullerton Heritage precinct at The Clifford Pier in Fullerton Bay Hotel. Asides from enjoying the international entertainment, guests will be treated to panoramic views of the iconic Marina Bay. Undoubtedly, the sights and sounds of the evening’s extravaganza make it the perfect opportunity to welcome back Singapore’s nightlife.
The stellar line-up for the night includes acclaimed DJ and electronic music producer Oliver Heldens, who will be helming the decks on opening night. Dubbed as the “pioneer of the future house genre”, the 27-year-old Dutch artiste has performed at international music festivals like Ultra Music Festival, Coachella, EDC, and Lollapalooza. He is currently ranked as the World’s No. 8 DJ for the second year running.
On the second night, Swedish singer-songwriter John Martin will headline the after-party at Amber Lounge. Martin is best known for his collaboration with Swedish House Mafia and was the lead vocalist for the group’s chart toppers like “Don’t You Worry Child” and “Save The World”. Joining him is music partner Michel Zitron, a renowned record producer featured on club hits like Tiesto’s “Red Lights”. Fatman Scoop, the American rapper and DJ who has collaborated with names like Janet Jackson, Mariah Carey, Pitbull and Whitney Houston will also be performing.
An Amber Lounge experience will not be complete without exclusivity, and for this year’s edition, the brand is debuting its latest suit concepts to elevate the table packages further. According to the brand, the two additions are: Noir Suite and Amber Suites. “Each Suite comprises semi-private architectural alcoves within the venue, offering prime views of performances and unlimited table service with flowing Perrier Jouet champagne and Belvedere vodka, along with special presentations of Royal Salute whisky 21, Codigo 1530’s newly launched Sherry Cask Anejo tequila, The Orientalist’s Gunpowder Gin and exquisite Nomad Caviar,” the Amber Lounge boasts. For the Noir Suite and its bespoke offerings, only one such suite is available per night and its price tag starts from S$100,000.
Apart from the spread of alcohol, delectable treats from Meathsmith and Burnt Ends Bakery can be purchased throughout the night along with custom labelled Kaluga hybrid caviar from Nomad Caviar.
Image: Amber Lounge
The fun doesn’t just stop on land, but it continues along Singapore’s mesmerising coastline as Amber Lounge will be offering a by-invitation-only VIP yachting experience to its most esteemed guests. Onboarding the 80ft Princess Yacht in collaboration with its luxury yacht partner Boat Lagoon Yachting, guests can enjoy a sunset cruise with specially curated entertainment and refreshments as they sail down the waterfront.
Speaking more about the return of Amber Lounge to Singapore, Jeannette Tan, Managing Director of Amber Lounge Group, said: “There’s a reason why Amber Lounge has always been the highlight of the Grand Prix calendar, as it’s seen as the post-race home to Formula 1 drivers from hosting Fernando Alonso’s farewell festivities upon his retirement in 2018 to Nico Rosberg celebrating his season win in 2016 at Amber Lounge in Abu Dhabi.”
From the left: Cher Ng, Group CEO of Amber Lounge, Jeannette Tan, Managing Director of Amber Lounge and Patrick Grove, Chairman of Amber Lounge.
“This year in Singapore we are excited for our guests to fully experience our bold new creative direction and immersive entertainment performances featuring global talents as we launch and showcase our revamped concept for Amber Lounge,” she added.
The Macallan and Bentley Debut the Macallan Horizon
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Set for a global release in summer 2023, the bottle features a unique design that blends the heritage of The Macallan and Bentley Motors.
By Joseph Low
First announced in July 2021, the global partnership between The Macallan and Bentley Motors will see both historic brands develop products that are an amalgamation of their combined heritage. Focusing on the shared values of innovation, craftsmanship, and creativity, a prototype of this collaboration has been revealed and it is the Macallan Horizon.
The limited edition whisky sports a unique design with no standing base, which is a nod to the horizontal trajectory of the automotive world. Furthermore, the case features a 180-degree twist and represents the “mastery of space and time achieved by The Macallan and Bentley Motors”, as mentioned in the press release.
Besides its distinct outlook, the Macallan Horizon is also a homage to the distillery’s Six Pillars. These are the foundation stones of the brand that account for its exceptionality. The newly unveiled prototype is crafted from “six unique upcycled, repurposed or ethically sourced materials” and is integral to both brands.
Among the materials include recycled copper from the disused curiously small spirit stills that were part of The Macallan’s former distillery; aluminium recovered from the British marque’s manufacturing process; recycled wood; recyclable glass and locally sourced carbon neutral leather, also used in the Bentley Mulliner grand tourer that was released earlier.
Lastly, the Macallan Horizon is not complete without its whisky content. For this special collaboration, The Macallan Master Whisky Maker Kirsteen Campbell created a flavour profile reminiscent of her visit to Bentley Motors in Crewe. It was at the marque’s home ground that she got a glimpse of the shared passion for creativity, craftsmanship and innovation.
Speaking about the Macallan Horizon, Jaume Ferras, Global Creative Director for The Macallan, comments: “Our collaboration with Bentley Motors and the knowledge exchange we have undertaken as a result has inspired us to see things very differently. In the spirits world, everything is upright, such as our stills and our bottles. When we looked at the horizontal direction pursued by Bentley Motors as part of the automotive industry, it made us consider if and how we could adapt this format for whisky, which ultimately requires to be poured.”
Chris Cooke, Bentley’s Product and Lifestyle Design Manager, further adds: “Our prototype for The Macallan Horizon is truly pioneering in both its design and use of materials. It’s a fusion of the sharply defined yet curvaceous Bentley design DNA, The Macallan’s innovation and recycled materials from both iconic British brands. The form of the design has allowed us to almost treat light as another material in itself, and the interplay between light and the wood, aluminium and copper materials is extraordinary. In being both an object of beauty in itself and demonstrating such innovation, it’s a representation of what’s coming next from our partnership.”
Information regarding pricing and availability of The Macallan Horizon single malt whisky will be shared closer to its release on themacallan.com and bentleymotors.com.
Introducing the TAG Heuer Monaco Special Edition, which is billed as the ultimate version of a certain vintage model.
By Ashok Soman
Sometimes, a watch comes along that we are hungry to write about. It does not happen often, but it did happen here for our cover story. The TAG Heuer Monaco is an icon, and it represents an important part of what we love about watches. We could even write the story without a new watch to reference, which thankfully we did not have to do. To understand this, it helps to consider the reality of the Monaco Special Edition here. The case is hardly new and neither is the automatic Heuer 02 movement. By any measure, it is an evolution, not a revolution. By way of contrast, when the Monaco debuted, it was truly revolutionary. But you can discover more about that in the cover story. Here, we sing the praises of this particular model, and the details that make it a handsome piece.
To begin with, we reiterate that this watch is based off the famous Dark Lord model of 1975, but it is not a reissue or even a real tribute. Instead, it is more of a riff on the look. In terms of size and shape, it is no different to the other Monaco offerings, being a square 39mm watch. Where the watch makes its mark is in its sandblasted DLC titanium grade two material, and highly unusual two-tone black-on-black dial (circular brushed within the minute track, and highly grained around the hour markers). These markers themselves are rose gold plated, matching the hour, minute and small second hands (with white SuperLuminova on the hour and minute hands). The effect is striking in pictures, which we hope to convince you of with our own photographic evidence as well as the stock press images.
In the metal, the effect is even more impressive, with the grained elements standing out. You might gaze upon it and feel that it reminds you of a racetrack, or of racing tyres — the press release mentions these exact examples, yet we thought of them independently after our shoot with the watches. Perhaps we are on the same wavelength as the communications team at TAG Heuer, or there is something organic to this description.
This wealth of visual cues might sound overwhelming, and we have not even mentioned the chronograph hands and the subdials. The Monaco has a proven track record of making such aesthetic touches work, and the Monaco Special Edition is no exception. On that note, the crown and chronograph pushers are also in the same grade 2 DLC titanium. The black alligator strap also sports a folding clasp in the same material, also with DLC. Incidentally, besides adding a degree of surface hardness, DLC has the more practical benefit of making surfaces resistant to visible fingerprint stains. We have tested this out many times and it seems to work as advertised, though it is not 100 per cent effective; TAG Heuer does not make this claim in the press materials.
A specific claim worth looking into is that this is only the second Monaco to be cased in titanium, after the Titan Limited Edition last year. It follows then that this is the first time the Monaco has been cased in DLC treated titanium. This Special Edition, which we like to call the Dark Sun, is only available at TAG Heuer boutiques and online.
From awe-inspiring natural sights to shimmering coastlines, Select Sicily Villas will ensure the best holiday accommodation in Italy’s coastal region.
By Jessica Maggi
What could be more glitzy than a sun-splashed getaway to Sicily? Everything about this sunny, tri-cornered island off the toe of Italy’s boot exudes glamour – from its awe-inspiring natural sights to its shimmering coastline, picturesque seafront towns, and Blue Flag beaches lapped by the cobalt-blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
After a bruising two years and the Covid-stricken summers of 2020 and 2021, we all deserve a holiday. The largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily is blessed with an abundance of riches, and should definitely be on your travel list. This sun-kissed southern Italian island’s astonishing history, easygoing charm, flavorsome cuisine, and over-the-top accommodation options have made it synonymous with luxury escapes.
Here are the best Sicilian destinations for a luxurious and relaxing break in the sun. Select Sicily Villas, one of the island’s leading and most exclusive vacation rental companies, will make sure you find the best accommodation.
South-Eastern Sicily – Noto
For a sun-splashed getaway with a little bit of everything that makes luxury holidays in Sicily so enticing – culture, great food, seaside relaxation, and postcard-worthy beaches – you really can’t beat Noto, the honey-colored limestone capital of Sicilian Baroque. One of Italy’s finest gems, Noto is an eighteenth-century Baroque masterpiece of town planning, just waiting to be explored.
So why not rent a super-luxe villa in the surrounding area? The epitome of high-class luxury, Villa Orizzonte is a contemporary-design luxury retreat with perfectly-manicured gardens, satellite TV, and its own private 60-foot stone swimming pool offering to-die-for views while lounging poolside.
Sleeping up to eight people, this panoramically positioned, next-level villa to rent in Noto is ideal for a group of friends and family willing to spend quality time together away from the crowds.
North-Eastern Sicily – Taormina
It’s impossible to talk about luxury holidays in Sicily without mentioning the glamorous hilltop town of Taormina, nicknamed the Pearl of the Ionian Sea. This bijou town perched dramatically on a slope high above the shore has been luring royals, intellectuals, and big-name travelers since the days of the eighteenth-century Grand Tour, from Ernest Hemingway, Goethe, and D. H. Lawrence, to Audrey Hepburn and Elizabeth Taylor, to name just a few.
Taormina’s third century B.C. Greco-Roman open-air amphitheater is still used today as a venue for classical operas, concerts, and theatrical events. Stars who have played here include Bruce Springsteen, Kasabian, and Sting.
Not surprisingly, Taormina is still a favorite with the rich and famous, and draws a number of celebrities, A-listers, and business elite who are seeking the best of the best. For lodging in this area, check out Villa Mazzarò, an ultra-luxe cliff-side villa with panoramic jacuzzi, offering pretty much everything one could wish for in a summer house, from no less than eight bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, to an inviting 32-foot long swimming pool, super-fast Wi-Fi, and a barbecue pit for BBQ parties.
North-Western Sicily – Scopello
You may get a feeling of déjà vu, as Scopello’s bay, on Sicily’s north-western coast, happens to be one of the most photographed beaches in the whole of the Mediterranean, and even appeared in a number of Hollywood movies and TV series, including Ocean’s Twelve with George Clooney and Brad Pitt, and the hit Sicilian detective series Inspector Montalbano.
An easy drive west of Palermo, Scopello is a great place to soak in traditional Sicilian culture while marveling at the huge faraglioni rock formations that rise out of the Mediterranean Sea. With old warehouses and fishermen’s cottages round a little cove hugged by steep-sided cliffs topped with a medieval tower, the ancient, cappuccino-colored tuna processing plant in Scopello is one of the most photogenic locations in Europe. It’s not hard to work out why this tiny coastal hamlet in the province of Trapani has long been popular with film directors, and magazine photographers.
Located in Scopello, Bay Viewis an architect-designed, two-bedroom villa boasting on-point interior décor, modern comforts, state-of-the-art amenities, and a stunning infinity pool with the most breath-taking views. Check it out!
South-Western Sicily – Menfi
About an hour’s drive southwest of Palermo, the historic wine town of Menfishould definitely be at the top of your bucket list. Don’t let its size deter you! Myriad activities await. The exquisite, quaint town of Menfi offers plenty of activities suitable for high-end travelers, from wine-tasting, windsurfing, and cycling through spectacular nature, to scuba diving, kitesurfing, and snorkeling in clear waters filled with a wealth of marine life. The possibilities are endless.
Now you want to know about the best luxury villas in south-western Sicily with private swimming pool, right? For affluent holidaymakers who want a quiet, private hideaway in the heart of western Sicily’s unspoiled coastal landscape, Essence is the perfect luxury retreat to enjoy an unforgettable vacation. Luxury knows no bounds at this top-of-the-range modernist villa sitting on a panoramic, olive-tree-strewn hill looking out to sea over the luscious vineyards of world-famed winemaker Planeta.
South-Eastern Sicily – Siracusa
Nearly as prestigious as Athens, Corinth, and Carthage when it was a Magna Graecia colony, the ancient coastal city of Syracuse (Siracusa in Italian) is a true gem on the south-eastern coast of Sicily, now listed among UNESCO’s World Heritage Sites. The little adjoining island of Ortygia is where most of the historical sites are located, including fabulous Baroque buildings, a medieval fortress, and a couple of splendid Greek Doric temples.
One of the most requested rental properties in this part of the island is Prestige, listed in Select Sicily’s ever-growing portfolio of deluxe villas. This exclusive property offers the privacy, space and comfort of a private home paired with top-notch amenities, enticing views, and direct, private access to the transparent waters of the Ionian Sea. Pool dwellers, foodies, and sea-lovers alike will find plenty to treat themselves to, whether that’s lounging by the pool with one of Andrea Camilleri’s books, sipping on some local wine as the sun sets, or swimming in crystal-clear, glittering blue waters before a dinner of freshly caught fish.
Planning your next glamorous getaway? As you can see, renting a super-luxe sea-view villa is the way to go. All of the properties mentioned are available to rent through Select Sicily , a luxury vacation rental company dedicated to providing top quality accommodation in sunny Sicily. For more information and reservations, please visit the company’s website Selectsicilyvillas.com.
Founder Rosendo Zambrano’s Machetazo Mezcal is produced in a wood-fired hearthstone oven, blending smokiness and natural earthy flavours for great taste.
By Joseph Low
Your background is in chemical engineering. How were you first introduced to mezcal?
Mezcal is something I have always been familiar with. It was ever-present in my rural town upbringing. I grew up in Guerrero, which is one of the states in Mexico that produces mezcal. My memories of mezcal are associated with social gatherings of friends and family. Mezcal makes a regular appearance during popular town celebrations such as El Santo Patrón (the patron saint of the town), día de Los Muertos, and in rural funeral family reunions. When loved ones pass on, we traditionally mourn the body for one to two days and serve mezcal during the velorio candle lighting ceremony.
I have always been fascinated with mezcal. It is the perfect combination of nature and ancestral processes that have been around for hundreds of years. My initial goal was to create a quality alcoholic authentically Mexican beverage that I could enjoy at home with friends and family.
So, how long ago did Mezcal Machetazo start, and where is it produced?
I started the Mezcal business in 2009. Our brands are handcrafted and produced in the states of Guerrero, Oaxaca, and San Luis Potosí in small batch distilleries.
Tell us about the legend uniting Mayahuel, Goddess of Mezcal, and the mighty warrior named Machetazo?
This is a legend inspired by Mexican folklore. Warrior Machetazo fell in love with Goddess Mayahuel. She had given him a taste of mezcal from the agave plant. He had lost her and in pursuit of trying to feel reunited, he decided to make mezcal for himself to bring back memories of her. He used his machete to cut the leaves of the agave and when he drank, he could see visions of her.
What is the difference between tequila and mezcal?
Tequila is made in Jalisco from one specific agave — it is the blue agave. Mezcal is made out of 20+ different agaves. This process is also different. Mezcal is made in a wood-fired hearthstone oven. There is also a difference in taste. Tequila has one taste while mezcal has a variety of tastes; this is why I can never get bored of mezcal.
In comparison to other spirits, mezcal is best when served fresh and joven (young) so you can taste the agave itself and not the flavour of wood in a barrel after it has been aged.
Mezcal is a product that’s difficult to scale given the long growth cycle of its agave. Why do you choose mezcal?
That is true, the right agave plant must be aged for about seven to nine years, making mezcal’s production cycle quite unique in comparison to other spirits. I choose mezcal because of its Mexican authenticity. I am excited to see consumer trends moving away from what is mass-produced and artificially flavoured to fully embracing what is all-natural, chemical free, and organically planted. This is what mezcal is all about: being unique!
What is the defining characteristic of mezcal?
In general, Mezcal is fresh and natural with earthy flavours. The flavours depend on which Mexican region it is cultivated from.
Mezcal has a strong smokey flavour that might be a bit “too much” for consumers. Were you concerned about that? How do you recommend people to enjoy Mezcal Machetazo?
Our Mezcal brand is a hand-crafted product; the smokiness depends on the hand of the maestro mezcalero (master mezcal maker). We took smokiness into consideration when thinking through the consumer experience. In the case of Mayalen and Machetazo, we balance out the smokiness with the flavour so that the smokiness doesn’t take over.
Mezcal is rather new across Southeast Asia. Are Singaporeans into trying new cocktails?
Singapore has such a vibrant bar scene. If you need evidence, just look at the list of the best bars in the world. You are likely to find that half of them are in Singapore. People here are open to trying new experiences, cocktails, and flavours. Mezcal fits right in.
What are your favourite cocktails bars in Singapore?
Foxtail is my favourite cocktail bar in Singapore. You will find that Mayalen and Machetazo are served here. Foxtail has the ability to craft the best cocktails according to the customer’s request. They are also known for their margaritas and negronis.
What is your favourite cocktail and how would you change it up with Mezcal?
It is hard to beat a cold Margarita. They are even better with mezcal and a little habanero chili pepper on the side.
If there is one ultimate thing you’d like people to know about Mezcal Machetazo, what would that be?
You have to try the three different mezcals in the Machetazo and Mayalen collection and go through the journey of finding out the difference in flavour on your own. The mezcal collection is formed of Cupreata, Espadín, and Salmiana agaves.
For the LUXUO readers wishing to buy Mezcal Machetazo online, where should they head to?
In Singapore, you can buy directly from our website here.
Moving forward, could a botanical gin made out of agave be your next creation?
Image: Mezcal Machetazo
This is an interesting idea. By the way, some of the producers in Oaxaca have already started creating this drink with mezcal Espadín and botanical herbals.
On a more generic level, what is the main quality an entrepreneur should always have?
My advice is to have passion for what you do and enjoy it to the fullest. Money comes later if you do it right.
Would you like to name a mentor who is inspiring you in your daily work?
My mentors and driving forces are my friends and family. They give me feedback and advice and I listen to it. They are my purpose in life. I live for them.
Luxury Fashion On The Resurgence of Vacation Dressing: Travel Capsules
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The fashion industry’s growing focus on resort-wear and vacation dressing reaches an all time high as luxury fashion brands release travel capsule collections to cater to the consumer’s vacation state of mind.
By Aurelli Lazuardi
As our world keeps changing around us, so does the fashion calendar. For decades, the traditional seasonal calendar has served the industry well. Designers put their Spring Summer collections on the catwalk in September, and then showcase an Autumn Winter drop six months later, but those days are long gone. A much-needed reset of the fashion industry is something that has been highlighted during the past few years. And whilst we have previously discussed the jump to virtual fashion and the effects on traditions like street style, it seems that another tradition of the industry has come under scrutiny — the outdated fashion seasons.
Despite being motivated by creativity, the fashion industry is rather traditional in terms of business. As a result, it was considered inventive when particular designers began breaching the norms and showcasing their range between the two established seasons. These were known as pre-collections and were often the ready-to-wear selection for a designer before the debut of the more exclusive items.
Once the concept was shown to work, everyone came on board, so much so that the fashion season now consists of four main units: Pre-Spring, Spring Summer, Pre-Fall, and Fall Winter; with brands finding the opportunity to highlight and organise pieces from the two pre-collections into themed wardrobes called “capsule collections”.
How Fashion is Targeting the Travel Rebound
Dating back more than 100 years, early Cruise or Resort collections were just that — special capsules produced by designers and released between the main collections to cater to wealthy customers that travel. However, as the cost of international travel fell, middle and upper-middle classes began taking trips of their own and these niche lines not only became more popular amongst consumers but also allowed fashion houses huge commercial benefits.
“You don’t relate to seasons, you don’t relate to fashion shows, you relate to a spirit of mind.” said luxury correspondent Tamison O’Connor “It’s really attractive for the true luxury customer who sees these items as a fun way to accessorise a holiday, but it’s also an entry point for more aspirational and younger consumers,” she continues.
After a year of cancelled trips and staying home, travelling and vacation dressing is witnessing a resurgence like no other. Consumers are looking for clothing to enhance their travel experience and set a vacation state of mind. “What we’ve been hearing from our customers is that she’s thinking of getting away this summer and is eager to buy beachwear and getaway clothes that are fashionable and fun,” emphasised Anu Narayanan, the chief merchandising officer of Anthropologie.
A current holiday wardrobe is no longer solely consisting of swimwear and a cover-up, but encompasses a head-to-toe ensemble. What’s more, shoppers are looking to resortwear that can tell a story — about a brand, a place, or its creator. For example, Jacquemus’ 23-piece capsule collection for Spring 2023 was a tribute to the Sun & Sea art installation by Rugile Barzdziukaite, Vaiva Grainythe and Lina Lapelyte and the work of photographer Massimo Vitali. The beach-themed collection was exclusively released in partnership with Net-A-porter and included summer staples of well-loved Jacquemus designs rendered in his signature, soft-coloured colorways. With cropped linen-blend tops and mint green bucket hats, they picked up on opportunities to engage consumers by building a buzz with the release while staying relevant and affordable with younger consumers.
Jacquemus isn’t the only luxury player betting big on vacation dressing. On March 2022, Dior have teamed up with “Parley for the Oceans” to unveil the new season of its “Beachwear Capsule” line. Dior’s mission for the house is to become more eco-innovative and sustainable, and with Parley’s stance against major ocean threats, the two brands have created a collection that comprises a colour palette of blue packable jackets and ochre poplin pants, with some items carrying the “Dior Oblique” pattern, incorporating Parley Ocean Plastic created from up-cycled marine plastic debris and recovered fishing gear. Not only did they capitalise on the current trend of vacation dressing, but they’ve managed to leverage its roots as a label for fashionable, eco-conscious jet-setters, just in time for a post-pandemic vacation surge.
Altogether, this means that as demand for the evolving resort category grows, it is critical for brands and designers to adjust their assortments in order to cater to consumers’ new expectations of the category. To that end, brands have designed collections that extend beyond beachwear and summery themed collections.
“There’s pent up demand,” said chief executive of Mytheresa, Michael Kliger. “It’s just much more than beach and swimwear. It’s catering to consumers all-year round.”
The Diverse Range of Vacation-Themed Capsules
With winter holidays becoming a more common occurrence, it seems obvious for fashion houses to cater to colder-climate vacations. During the 2000s, brands realised the opportunity to sell garments all-year round, thus Luxury ski-wear was born. Luxury fashion houses such as Coco Chanel, Christian Dior and Prada started designing more winter capsules specifically for ski vacations. It continues today as the rise of social media sees more influencers and celebrities flaunt their holiday outfits. Throughout the 2010s, the Kardashian-Jenner family posted pictures of them skiing on their social media accounts and in the 2020s, models like the Hadid sisters influenced people to buy and wear luxury ski gear.
In present time, Fendi recently released their new Winter Sports capsule collection, featuring sustainable tech-wear along with bags and winter accessories. Winter hues like cold grey, white, baby and ice blue were strewn across the highly technical wardrobe, strongly linking back to the aesthetics of the Roman fashion house.
Similarly, hiking-themed capsule collections have emerged from mega fashion houses like Loewe. Taking on the great outdoor adventure, they’ve collaborated with performance brand On for a limited-edition capsule collection housing shoes and apparel for the modern adventurer. Focusing on craftsmanship, they reimagined long-established craft skills, applying the handmade to technical pieces. The ready-to-wear pieces sport a unique blend of performance properties and fashionable design aspects. Perfect for the individual who seek a holiday centered around the outdoors.
All in all, vacation dressing has become significant to brands. The increase in consumer demand for destination wear is fuelled by the enticing idea of holidays as an escape from routine and a chance to have new experiences. Shoppers are constantly on the look out for outfits that enhance their travel experience, and with this new trend of vacation-themed capsule collections, brands are able to showcase their creativity in design while selling their garments all-year round. It is no doubt that in time, holiday capsules are going to come back bigger than ever.
Catching Up With the A. Lange & Söhne 1815 Rattrapante
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The new 1815 Rattrapante from A. Lange & Söhne gives us a second chance at doing justice to this distinctive chronograph.
By Ashok Soman
When A. Lange & Söhne introduced the 1815 Rattrapante in honeygold in 2020, we missed it online (bar a line about its introduction), in favour of the 1815 Thin, also in honeygold, and the still-developing story of the Odysseus. The Glashütte manufacturer is bringing the split-seconds chronograph back this year in another limited edition of 200 pieces, this time in platinum. To the best of our knowledge, this new version is not limited to existing customers of A. Lange & Söhne also makes it a little more relevant to wider audiences. It is a boutique exclusive though and you will have to pop in and ask about the price, which is only disclosed upon request.
In any event, we will use this opportunity to correct our original omission on the 1815 Rattrapante. This is an important note because we do not typically feature new iterations of older models. In the case of the 1815 Rattrapante in honeygold, this watch happened to be the first time the manufacturer sent out its split-seconds chronograph by itself. Yes, this really was the first time A. Lange & Söhne introduced the split-seconds chronograph, or doppel chrono, without any other complication, and it must have been a great success because it is back for seconds. To be fair though, what else could we expect when the honeygold watch was limited in the way that it was — do not hold your breath for a steel version.
To begin with, the split-seconds chronograph is a big deal at A. Lange & Söhne, being something of a speciality of the watchmakers. We will not get into the specifics of a split-second chronograph, but you can think of it this way. A standard chronograph measures elapsed time for one timing event; the split-seconds allow one to extend that to two timing events, including measuring two sprinters against each other or, more traditionally, seamlessly measuring lap times in motor racing or distance running. There are two chronograph hands here, and as shown in the video but not quite in the standard images, both start together (precisely synchronised so it looks like there is just one hand). When the rattrapante function is engaged (via the pusher at 10 o’clock), the split-seconds hand (here in rhodiumised steel while all other hands are in blued steel) stops while the chronograph hand continues on its merry way. The same pusher also restarts the split-seconds hand, immediately jumping it back into place and pace with the chronograph hand.
It all makes for a nice bit of visual poetry, if you have ever seen it — or if like us you have tried to get those hands into the classic configuration you might have seen in pictures. As you might imagine, there is a lot of complexity here, which on the manual-winding calibre L101.2, you can see via the exhibition caseback, totally unobstructed by an automatic winding rotor. There are 365 individual parts here, all arranged like a mechanical funhouse; yes, there are two column wheels here, which is a signature of split-seconds chronographs. Now, the finish here is a bit different to the honeygold version because the signature Glashütte stripes and standard hand-engraving on the balance cock are both back.
Returning to the action dial-side, the 1815 Rattrapante is still the only watch from A. Lange & Söhne to feature this configuration of subdials, with an elapsed 30-minute counter at 12 o’clock and running seconds at 6 o’clock. The words Glashütte in Sachsen are also unique to the 1815 Rattrapante, at least in this full form. It might seem a little excessive in something like a chronograph, but it did not bother us when we handled the watch in person. Check out the video below, if you want all the key characteristics of the watch in 30 seconds flat.
Ivy McIver of Cirrus Aircraft Offers Insight into the SR Series, the World’s Best-Selling GA Aircraft
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The Cirrus Airframe Parachute System is a one-of-a-kind innovation that sets the golden standard for safety in the General Aviation industry.
By Joseph Low
You have been with Cirrus Aircraft since 2006. How did you get started in aviation?
My love for aviation started when I saw the first Top Gun in 1986. Watching the flying scenes planted a seed in my brain, and from then on I had a singular goal: to become a pilot. After graduating from MIT and launching my career as a software developer for an investment bank, I started flying lessons at my local airport and never looked back. After spending eight years in the software industry, I pivoted to an aviation career.
I joined Cirrus Aircraft in 2006 as a regional sales director in Salt Lake City, UT, responsible for new and pre-owned aircraft sales, development of the Cirrus training and service network, and demonstration flights of Cirrus aircraft in the Northern Rockies territory. In 2011, I continued my aircraft sales career in Seattle, WA where I covered the Pacific Northwest, Western Canada and Alaska. In 2014, I transitioned to a role on the marketing team as product line manager and subsequently director.
My current role at Cirrus Aircraft is Director, SR Product Line in Knoxville, TN, overseeing the company’s piston product roadmap development and product marketing. Over my 16-year career at Cirrus Aircraft, I have earned my seaplane rating, tailwheel and formation flying endorsements, and a Vision Jet type rating. I have over 5,000 flight hours and am the proud owner of an American Champion Citabria 7GCBC.
What influenced the SR Series interior and exterior design?
The very first SR design was influenced by a desire for a safe and comfortable pilot and passenger experience in a plane that could carry more and go faster and farther than the competitive aircraft on the market at the time — that was in the early 90s.
Cirrus Aircraft co-founders loved the look of composite kit planes like the Glasair, and they wanted to make a plane that was simple for a pilot to fly but also make passengers feel safe and comfortable. Large windows that increased visibility and let in lots of light, and two large doors for easy ingress and egress inspired the rest of the aircraft design. They also wanted a flight deck that was simple yet powerful — something that enhanced the pilot’s situational awareness but also was easy for a passenger to interpret. Putting passengers at ease by displaying the aircraft location on a moving map and information like distance to destination and fuel remaining at the destination was very important to the initial flight deck design. Lastly, the plane was built around having a whole airframe parachute in case of emergency. One of Cirrus Aircraft’s co-founders was involved in a mid-air collision during flight training prior to starting the company. That experience sparked the idea for the Cirrus Airframe Parachute Systems (CAPS).
The Cirrus SR Series has an incredible history of innovation, design and capability. Tell us more about the evolution of this series and how you have contributed?
Cirrus Aircraft began as a kit aircraft company. The first aircraft we designed and sold was the VK-30 kit (non-FAA certified) plane. This was a great learning experience and inspired us to develop the SR20, a more approachable airplane that was easy to fly and also FAA certified. We delivered the first SR20 in 1999, and two years later, we introduced the SR22, a higher speed and performing SR.
In 2010 we brought the SR22T to market, a turbocharged version of the SR. Throughout the years, we have continued to introduce features that enhance safety, comfort, convenience and performance, as well as programmes to improve and simplify the ownership experience. We are now offering the Generation 6 SR Series.
I joined Cirrus Aircraft in 2006 and started selling the Generation 2 SR20 and SR22. As a sales director, I introduced hundreds of people to aviation and grew the Cirrus Aircraft owner population by flying as many pilots and non-pilots in a brand-new Cirrus Aircraft model as I could. During that time, we introduced new generations of the SR series (G3-G5) and game-changing new features like the Cirrus Perspective by Garmin integrated flight deck, certified flight into known icing (FIKI) capability, a new model (SR22T), a digital autopilot with Enhanced Stability Protection (ESP) and the Blue LVL Button (which keeps the aircraft straight-and-level if the pilot is in need of a re-set).
Once I moved into a product line position on the marketing team, I had a more direct role in shaping the product roadmap. Notably, introducing the concept of providing transition training to all Cirrus Aircraft buyers which evolved into the Cirrus Embark programme. We also created Cirrus IQ, enabling owners to remotely connect to their aircraft by mobile app. I work closely with our engineering team and strategic suppliers to bring new and innovative features to the SR Series that are meaningful to our owners and was integral in bringing the Generation 6 SR Series aircraft to market.
A unique feature that all Cirrus aircraft are equipped with is the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), which includes a total airframe parachute to safely guide the aircraft to the ground in the event of an emergency. Do you think Cirrus Aircraft has influenced safety innovation within the GA sector and among consumers?
Absolutely. Yes, CAPS is a tremendous safety feature that has had a meaningful impact on hundreds of people and, to this day, is still a one-of-a-kind innovation on FAA-certified airplanes. We’re still the only FAA-certified plane with a parachute. Additionally, Cirrus Aircraft’s focus on training has remarkably influenced General Aviation’s safety innovation.
Cirrus Aircraft has combined technological innovation with a culture of safety-centric initial and continued education. Many standard safety features like ESP, auto-descent, hypoxia alert, Blue LVL Button, airbag seatbelts, and synthetic vision have become standard or optional features in other General Aviation aircraft.
Cirrus Aircraft has also focused on building a robust network of Cirrus Standardized Instructor Pilots (CSIP’s), online training materials, and Cirrus Training Centers (CTC’s) cultivating a community that is focused on safety.
Aside from safety, do you see any other major trends right now in the personal aviation industry?
We are seeing a trend toward comfort, convenience and style. Of course, our owners expect a well-built, high-performing, safe and high-quality aircraft — that is a given. But owners want more than that. They demand comfort for both pilot and passengers, and an in-flight experience that rivals a luxury sedan. They also want to make it unique — almost a reflection of their personality. An aircraft purchase is often personal and very emotional, so the aircraft not only needs to fit the mission but also needs to fuel the passion. A variety of exterior and interior colour choices and designs encourage owners to express themselves through their Cirrus Aircraft models.
Who has inspired/mentored you and influenced your career?
The list is long! My family has always been extremely supportive of me chasing my aviation dreams. My mom inspires me to be open-minded, bold and unapologetic about trying things. Jeff Tworek was a sales manager and mentor during my software days — he had a unique ability to diffuse challenging situations using humour, humility and his over-the-top personality. I have always tried to emulate his style. Heike Larson was the sales manager who hired me at Cirrus Aircraft — she was strong, poised, intelligent and a great example of who I could become and a great female mentor in our male-dominated industry. Wilma Melville and I became friends in her late 70s, and I was in my early 40s — she flew me into backcountry Idaho in her Citabria and introduced me to a whole new side of aviation that I continue to love today. There are too many people to list. I have been fortunate to meet (and continue to meet) so many amazing people!
As a pilot yourself, what is your favourite aspect of flying?
The freedom to explore places that most people don’t get to see, the perspective of seeing things from the air, and the people I’ve met along the way. I guess that is three favourites!
Aside from flying, your other passions include adventure racing, cycling, skiing and running. How do you find enough time to enjoy all these activities?
I’ve always believed that you make the time for your passions. I don’t always make the time for all of these things at once — it’s a bit seasonal. I am lucky that I have a very supportive family and my husband shares my passion for flying and cycling so that helps that we do that together!
Jeremy Monteiro of JASS Wants To Make Jazz a Mainstream Affair
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JASS intends to grow the interest in jazz through multiple avenues like working closely with youths through mentorships and staging more concerts to engage with the general public.
By Joseph Low
You are one of Singapore’s most iconic jazz musicians. Tell us about your first steps as a musician.
I started learning Classical piano since I was six years old in 1966. I started to get interested in jazz when I turned 14 in 1974. My dad was a Mobil oil executive but he played jazz guitar and had a great selection of jazz guitar records. He often had jam sessions with his friends at home and so in a sense, he inspired me to become a jazz musician.
After my O levels, I worked as a solo pianist and organist at the now defunct “Country Club” hotel in East Coast Road and in early 1975, I went for an audition to be a pianist at Club 392. The owner, Mr AJ Isaac hired me as a pianist and bandleader. My musicians were in their 30s and 40s at the time.
A writer in Hong Kong once described your style as “a mix of Ravel and the Blues”. Would you agree with this statement?
That’s actually quite an accurate description. I love the French Impressionistic harmonies including that of Ravel. And I love the Blues. So somehow how I synthesised that and came up with a style which also combined some Bebop licks and even some Country and Western stylistic touches.
When was the Jazz Association (Singapore) (JASS) created, and can you share with us about its mission and what has been achieved so far?
JASS was formed in 2016. We set out to help raise the level of excellence in jazz in Singapore. We also aim to grow our audience, work closely in developing our youths through mentorship like the “Lion City Youth Jazz Festival”. The scholarship programme that we have enables those interested in pursuing jazz the means to kickstart their professional study. Other activities that we are participating in include projects with children with autism, Down’s syndrome and cultural diplomacy efforts. Our main orchestra JASSO has performed in the US, China, the United Kingdom, Malaysia and Thailand.
Since Covid-19, we have continued our cultural diplomacy works through our online presentations, which has seen our online shows attain hundreds of thousands of views from all over the world.
We added a new pillar to our work in 2020, the JASS Crisis Fund to help jazz musicians in financial distress through Covid-19 and beyond, with short term financial aid.
What will be the highlights of the JASS Benefit Gala Dinner on 31 July 2022?
We are excited about our upcoming gala. We will be the first arts company to hold a full-fledged in-person gala with a full big band since the easing of our Covid-19 measures.
The theme of our gala is “Swing It!” and we are looking forward to playing some swinging jazz standards with the Jazz Association Singapore Orchestra (JASSO) and our special featured guest artists Nathan Hartono and Joanna Dong.
Our gala night will also be a triple celebration where we celebrate Jeremy Monteiro’s 45th career anniversary, the 121st birthday of jazz legend and father of modern jazz, Loui Armstrong and JASS’ upcoming 6th anniversary. This year’s gala will be a night to remember.
What are the main avenues of work for JASS in the coming five years?
One of the main aspects of our artmaking work will be developing an amalgamation of the instruments and music of our Asian heritage with jazz to try and create a truly unique style of music.
Of course we will continue our work in promoting jazz as one of the mainstream genres, but we are excited about this new offshoot.
On the community work front, we intend to do our “Jazz for Kids” and “Jazz for Seniors” programmes and to reach out to the communities and bring jazz to the neighbourhoods as well.
We also want to make jazz accessible and inclusive and will continue our partnership with ART:DIS (previously known as Very Special Arts).
From teenagers to seniors, is it easy in Singapore to find suitable jazz classes or a jazz academy?
Currently, jazz is an elective subject for the O Levels and I notice that jazz is also been infused into the general syllabus for primary and secondary schools. One can also study for a degree in jazz studies at LASALLE College of the Arts. There are also many music teachers who teach jazz privately for those interested to learn how to play it privately.
JASS as we are known by our acronym also conducts jazz appreciation talks for the public as well as professional talks like our “Jazz improvisation for Classical Musicians” to help demystify jazz for classical musicians.
How are you reaching to new audiences? What is currently being done to get the younger generation to appreciate jazz?
Even before JASS was formed, it was amazing to see young musicians in their teens develop an interest in straightahead jazz and attain very impressive levels.
Both the Singapore Polytechnic and the National University Jazz clubs have become a hotbed of jazz activity and some of the younger ones from a few years ago have now become serious professional level jazz musicians. One of them is Sean Hong Wei, who we first had in the youth orchestra when he was 17. Now at 23, he plays as the lead alto player in both the main and youth orchestras in JASSO and JASSYO!
Another leader of the youth jazz movement is Aaron James Lee, one of our current JASS scholars studying towards a jazz degree at LASALLE and is already one of the top call jazz drummers in Singapore.
What are your favourite places to listen to Jazz in Singapore?
Image: Norhendra Ruslan
Currently, there are two main jazz clubs in Singapore but live music has not been allowed for more than two years already because of the pandemic. One is Maduro on Dempsey Hill, and the other is Simply Jazz, a jazz club I opened at CHIJMES in November 2021 with the Tinbox Group. Before Covid-19, there were also other clubs like Blu Jazz that was a favourite for the youth musicians.
Tell us more about this exciting collab you recently participated in, “re:Sound Collective”?
The collaboration that I did with re:Sound Collective was indeed a special one for me. In 1991, I won a Silver Medal for Best Music Score at the International Radio Festival of New York. After that, I moved away from writing large ensemble works to concentrate on being a jazz pianist.
In the last 10 years, I have been hearing the siren call to go back to writing large ensemble music so about two years ago, I decided to start writing symphonic jazz works again and help in catalysing the Symphonic Jazz movement in Singapore.
The concert with re:Sound Collective gave me an opportunity to write and perform my orchestral works. I had been writing these compositions for the past two years so it was wonderful to see it come to life with the magnificent re:Sound Collective orchestra.
You have also been busy with the opening of Simply Jazz at Chijmes in 2021. What is the concept behind the club and why has it become the go-to place for jazz lovers?
Simply Jazz has the best of both worlds — a great chef with a menu that would excite the well-travelled Singapore palette as well as a really exciting jazz atmosphere. With a live jazz band playing almost every night, Simply Jazz has become one of the go-to places for jazz in Singapore.
If you were to name one person or musician who has influenced you greatly for your love of Jazz, who would that be?
I’m afraid it’s not one person but three. One is my mentor and godfather of Singapore jazz Louis Soliano, who remains active at 79; the two-time Grammy award-winning saxophonist Ernie Watts with whom I have been making music with since 1987 with more than a hundred shows since then. I have also written more than 10 pieces with Ernie that have appeared on both his albums and mine.
Finally, the late great Grammy award-winning bassist Eldee Young was my best friend and I had a group with him together with Grammy winning drummer Redd Holt from 1986 until 2007 when Eldee passed away. Together as “Monteiro, Young and Holt”, we played on the main stage of the Montreux Jazz Festival, which the late founder Claude Nobs called one of the great concerts in the first 22 years of Montreux.
Royal Salute Is There To Celebrate Your Milestones at Every Moment
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From giving a toast to your big 30 to the 30th million dollar, the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom is ready to rejoice with you.
By Joseph Low
Royal Salute is synonymous with celebrations. The Scotch whisky maker has been a mainstay in the commemoration of various milestones of the English monarch starting from the coronation of Queen Elizabeth II in 1953. While a 21-gun-salute paid tribute to the young monarch, in the same vein, Royal Salute created an exquisite blend using whisky from Strathisla, the oldest Scottish working distillery in the Scottish.
Royal Salute has a range of whisky expressions fitting for an occasion to commemorate milestones in life. The only requirement the brand follows is that it only uses whiskies that have been aged at least 21 years whenever a new blend is created. For the newest expression, the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom, a minimum of 30 years of whiskies are used. This tells of Royal Salute’s commitment to quality and gave rise to its informal motto, “We Begin Where Others End”.
While some of the most precious whiskies are resevered only for special days like anniversaries, birthdays and other events, these noteworthy affairs shouldn’t dictate when one should toast to rejoice and enjoy the exceptional taste of the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom.
A Toast to the Big 30
Just as the Queen has celebrated various mileposts with Royal Salute over the years, we also toast to our own achievements, and one that is close to many of us is reaching the big 30. It is said that when one crosses over 30 years old, you are believed to be more mature, responsible and wise enough to take all important decisions. For the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom, the new expression blends together a hand selection of the finest whiskies picked by Royal Salute Master Blender Sandy Hyslop. Each whisky is aged minimally for 30 Years and is sourced from Scotland.
The result of this meticulous blend is a luxurious concoction of sweet and fruity notes of juicy ripe pears, blood orange and honey. The medley of favours is reminiscent of the summer days in the highlands of Scotlands where the fruitbowl is overflowing with the freshest harvest. On the finish, the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom is smokey and lingers in the mouth.
A Toast to the 30th Million Dollars
What is the key to unlocking financial freedom? Some say earning the first million dollars is the answer, but we reckon that the 30th million would provide a greater ease of spending on luxury (given today’s rising inflation costs). The Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom is a tribute to the Ceremony of the Keys, hosted annually at Scotland’s Holyrood Palace where the keys to the City of Edinburgh are presented to the Queen. Similarly, the key, whether metaphorically or literally, symbolises the magic formula for success.
Master blender Sandy Hyslop shares, “The new blend pays tribute to one of the longest-standing ceremonies still practiced by the British Monarchy and captures the celebratory energy and classic refinement of the Ceremony of the Keys. Each whisky that was selected to create this new expression is of the utmost quality, and from the start of production through to bottling, it was a thorough process that required constant care and attention. The result is a distinguished blend and a great addition to the fantastic collection of Royal Salute high-aged Scotch whiskies.”
A Toast to the 30th Career Year
Another significant milestone in anyone’s life is the celebration of their 30th year in a career. A professional life that’s three decades long commands respect as it exemplifies one’s devotion to honing a craft. When the Queen gave her first Christmas speech, she said, “I may faithfully serve Him and you, all the days of my life,” and kept her promises throughout her remarkable reign. The Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom is a toast to the person’s exceptional commitment and the Queen’s faithfulness in the service to the people.
Presented in a hand-crafted flagon that spotlights high mastery of craftsmanship, the Royal Salute 30 Year Old Key to the Kingdom’s stopper is inspired by the hilt of ancient Scottish swords. The granite-effect of the bottle accentuates the silver emblem and also provides a pleasant contrast to the presentation box, which features designs inspired by the Ceremony of the Keys like the ceremonial horns, royal roses, noble swords and regal crests.
Celebrations can happen anytime. It does not need to be confined to just milestones because memorialising a special occasion needs no particular date as every day is worth toasting.
