Is there anyone over 16 here?

Love it, hate it, wait eagerly to go there weekends, or wince at the thought of it, all Malta has a reaction to Paceville (pronounced ‘parch-i-ville’). Routinely billed as the heart of Malta’s nightlife, it’s either the place to be seen or a place to avoid, depending largely on your age and taste in night life. It has everything from clubs to gentlemen’s clubs and a casino, and an atmosphere ranging from tacky to cool. The four ‘s’ words are probably what most people of certain ages go looking for or chance across if they aren’t.

In these last weeks of peak summer 2011, we reflect on what this season has added to Paceville’s reputation. The past week alone has seen a flurry of news reports ranging from those detailing the latest incidents of violent behaviour on Paceville’s streets to businesses’ calls for a new structure – a ‘Paceville Agency‘ – to deal with the areas’ ills.

Somewhat in the minority are other voices complaining Malta is painting too black a picture of its top nightlife area.   Not good for tourism, they say.  I feel they do have a point there as many businesses in Paceville work hard to run a tight ship.  But most of us here in Malta are quite aware there’s a gaping void between glossy brochure speak and the reality of Paceville.

The area has enjoyed a meteroic rise to infamy this summer. Though some commentators say it was actually worse 30 years ago.  It’s a shame because there are good many excellent restaurants tucked away down its side streets which could attract more business. It has a Blue Flag beach and picturesque bays on its fringes too. But I know a lot of locals who simply won’t go near the area from May to September.

Older people (and we’re talking perhaps of 30 plus only here) say it’s full of teens.  Even by age 21, some locals have had it with Paceville (locally known as ‘PV’).  Here’s what Charlie (21) says about why people go to PV:

1. to get wasted.

2. to meet the same people over and over again. No interesting conversations take place there.. just useless, drunken chat.

3. to pull anything of the opposite sex,

4. because ‘there is nothing better to do’.

5. the weekend shows up and people simply feel like clubbing. There are still many who love the place because of that.

(Afterthought): It’s still very cheap to go out (especially if you’re a girl). There are no entrance fees to many of the clubs. It’s drawing ever younger people in: 14 year-olds go there supposedly accompanying their elder siblings.. and end up getting wasted themselves. By the time you get to 21, you’ve done it all and want to move on. Also, if you’ve done any serious travel yourself, you know that there is life beyond Paceville.

Verdict? Go there understanding what Paceville is, and you won’t be disappointed.

What and where is Paceville?

It’s a compact, urban peninsula between St George’s Bay and Spinola Bay and facing the inland residential area of Swieqi. It also has a large number of five-star hotels on its fringes. The St George’s Bay (newly-made) beach is considered Paceville’s local beach. Paceville life centres on Dragonara Road, Wilga Street, St. Georges Road and St. Rita Steps where clubs, bars, restaurants, snack outlets, discos and more spill out into paved streets. It isn’t that attractive a place by day, but at night, it’s like Malta’s mini version of London’s Soho, Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus – loud, brash and in your face.

Facilities: police are present and increasing in numbers; taxi ranks in main square; Wembley’s, a well-known taxi & mini-bus firm, is just five minutes walk from central Paceville. Minibus services to most outlying towns and villages operate till the early hours. Taxi sharing also possible.

How to get there or more importantly, back:

Arriva runs a lot of night buses from St Julian’s.  Click here for the list of routes and times.  There’s some park and ride services too, which make life a bit easier if you’re driving.

Photo: Courtesy of Spacing Magazine. 

From Massachusetts to Malta, Marcie Joy, singer-songwriter, is one talented lady. She’s performing live end this week, February 25th at Blackout 2011 alongside DJ Ruby, Ira Losco, and more.

She’s had Top 10 major label dance releases worldwide, (Armada, Warner, Flashover, Blackhole,
and more) and has performed live at major parties and events around the world, (including Luminosity at Trance Energy, Armada WMC opening night with Markus Schulz, Boston Fashion Week Opening Night party, and more). Armada describes her vocals as sweet and seductive. In addition to her live performance in Malta, Marcie is working with Maltese DJ and Producer, Toby, along with some other Malta based artists, so we may get to see a whole lot more of her on the islands. Here’s Marcie in her own words for MIO.

What was your favourite record as a child?
Michael Jackson – Thriller. I made up a dance to it, and performed for kids in my neighborhood. I had the one sparkly glove, and I served Pretzels at the performance.

How did you get into dance music?
I’ve always sung. I grew up studying voice, piano, and dance, was in rock bands all through University, and trained in musical theater. I started to truly focus on songwriting for dance music about 5 years ago. I became immersed in the EDM scene, and really grew to love it. I’m grateful to have a non-EDM background because I think it brings some versatility to my songwriting. I still love to work in other genres, but EDM is my favorite. I have so many happy feelings associated with dance music

What’s been the highlight of your career till now?
Performing in Malta is definitely a highlight as a performer. As a songwriter, I really enjoyed working with Gianluca Motta. Also, I had an amazing time writing ‘World’s End’. We had a concept for the track right from the start, and saw it through to completion. It’s a track dedicated originally to Athlete’s in the World Cup, but extends beyond that to relate to people everywhere who are passionate about life.

Who do you admire? (in your genre or from any walk of life)
I love the singers who tell stories with their voices, and are distinctive both on stage and off. There are people I meet every day that I admire, from old friends to strangers. Most people are doing their best to survive and be happy. I will also mention my parents. They are always there for me to help keep my confidence up, and to remind me how far I have come. I have watched them work incredibly hard over the years, and they have inspired me to stay tough, keep pushing, and not be afraid to fall. Every step forward is an accomplishment, and sometimes we have to go backwards to go forward.

What’s your idea of a perfect day?
A nice walk in the morning, then 8 hours of studio work with no interruptions. Finishing up early evening with a sense of a job well done, and going for dinner or dancing with friends. This kind of day does not happen often.

Beer, wine or fruit juice or other?
I’ve been getting into dark beers, which I never used to like. I like notes of coffee or chocolate. I also love an espresso martini.

What are you working on at the moment?
Quite a few new things. I’ve been pushing myself stylistically, and I hope the new tracks I’m writing will have surprising elements for my audience. I’ve got some trance releases coming up, as well as some dirty cheeky vocals.

You’ve collaborated with a whole bunch of leading EDM names and have support from another who’s beaten a path to Malta, (twice now), Markus Schultz. Do you feel you have a unique sound when you collaborate or is it a case of ‘being flexible’ and learning to adapt each time?
Every collaboration is unique. There is something in a song that exists solely as a result of fusing particular individuals at a specific point in time. I learn something new from everyone I work with, and it’s always a case of being flexible, and also recognizing who can push me to be better. A good collaboration will challenge everyone involved, and have solid communication where everyone feels open to try new ideas, make mistakes, and give and take constructive criticism.

Why Malta, why now?
I’ve wanted to come to Malta for awhile now! Some of my favorite vocalists have performed on the island, (Kirsty Hawkshaw, Jennifer Rene, Emma Hewitt, among others). Everyone I have met from Malta has been so nice, and there seems to be an incredible energy and enthusiasm for dance music. It seems like a dance music utopia.

Tell us two things that fascinate you about the island.
For a small island, there are a lot of parties all the time! I wonder when people sleep? I’ve read about some of the archeological history. I’d like to see sites like The Prehistoric Temples.

Do you think a small island like Malta is a feature on the global dance calendar?
I think Malta already is of significance on the dance calendar. There are amazing events going on all the time, and the list of world renowned dance artists who have performed on the island is massive. Plus, there is some great dance music production work coming out of Malta. I think it makes sense that an island with an active club scene, and steady exposure to live performances would breed upcoming producers with an ear for what works, and what is fresh.

What should we have asked you?
I’d love to tell you about ‘Behind The Lyric’. It’s a radio show I produce featuring artists telling the stories behind their dance tracks. I created ‘Behind The Lyric’ because there are so many EDM tracks whose lyrics truly speak to me! I wanted to create a dialogue between listeners and Songwriters. Songwriters spend hours pouring their heart and souls into a tune, and it’s worth taking some time to focus on the craft of songwriting, and point out the personal tales that inspire a lyric, and the behind the scenes studio life. I love the feedback I get from listeners. There’s a deep dialogue happening between listeners and artists as a result of the show. There is a lot of mutual respect and support going around, which has been inspiring and heartwarming for me to see

What are you doing at this moment?
I’m packing my suitcase for Malta! As usual, I’ve packed too many shoes.

More on Marcie
Marcie’s Message To Malta- Live @ Blackout 2011
Blackout 2011 Official Promo Video

Marcie’s Homepage: http://www.webmarcie.com
Behind The Lyric: http://www.behindthelyric.com
Armada Artist Spotlight: http://www4.armadamusic.com/news/2009/04/2547/
Marcie on Beatport: http://www.beatport.com/artists/marcie

Malta is THE insider clubbing destination

We’re not (thankfully) Ayia Napa, nor Ibiza (yet). Malta’s club scene has exploded in the last decade, but it hasn’t the tarnished, hackneyed nor ‘been there, done that’ feel to it. It’s still fresh, young and bit more insider and exclusive than the scene on offer at resorts like those above. And that’s not just our view; the Guardian UK took a shine to Malta’s take on the Med clubbing scene here.

It’s certainly on the circuit though, and the crème de la crème of DJ names know Malta well, with many of them having been back several times. We’ve featured on MIO names like Gaslamp Killer and Markus Schultz who’ve been over recently.

The difference between Malta and the Ayia Napa’s of this world is that the local crowd, the islanders, made the scene in the first place, for themselves first and foremost. Most Med resorts’ clubbing was created to sate the tourist appetites. But in Malta, clubbing has a big home market which means it well, feels a more real, more honestly appreciated and year-round affair than just a summer jamboree.

Malta also has its own cult DJs who are making waves, and have been a long time now. We’ve spoken to DJ Toby on this site, and there’s a host of others, including Miss Roberta, DJ Ruby, DJ Mag and more…

When it comes to venues, the ones below for Malta Music Week have doors open all summer…look to at individual bars in Malta’s main nightlife area, Paceville (St Julian’s) for regular and one-off sets. Our What’s On events pages will keep updated with the latest.

Malta Music Week NOW!

But, summer is clubbing’s season, let’s face it, and in Malta that means open air (so long as permits are granted to an hour that suits clubbers). Summer 2010 sees things kick off with the fourth edition of Malta Music Week (25 – 30 June), featuring Isle of MTV, Creamfields, G7 nights at Gianpula as well as Ministry of Sound. Isle of MTV last year was right up there with the best festival in Europe, and headlined by Lady GaGa and the Black Eyed Peas. Here’s the week’s programme ending with Isle of MTV….

Programme

FRIDAY 25 JUNE
G7 FRIDAYS – GIANPULA
FEATURING SPECIAL GUEST INNA & MALTA’S TOP LOCAL DJS TONY TONY, PIERRE CORDINA, JJOY

Definitely Malta’s largest and most famous outdoor clubbing venue. Fridays at Gianpula is the highlight of Malta’ summer clubbing season. With 3 different dance floors, Gianpula definitely offers the biggest dance floor hits and the finest and latest dance cuts for a pure typical Mediterranean hot summer night out.
Doors Open: 11.00pm – 4.00am
Entrance: €6.00 at the door
www.g7events.com
www.gianpula.com

SATURDAY 26 JUNE
MINISTRY OF SOUND FESTIVAL 2010 – GIANPULA
FEATURING DJS: CALVIN HARRIS, DASH BERLIN, MARK NIGHT, KATE LOUISE SMITH, GUY J, JOHANNES HEIL & OKAIN

The Ministry of Sound Festival 2010 has gathered together a series of the most heightened music genre to highlight the tastes of each and every one of you.Gianpula will be divided into four main areas, in which each area will boost one another with glistening individuality, style and gleaming state of the art performances.
Doors Open: 8.00pm – 4.00am
Entrance: €25.00
www.g7events.com
www.clubbersevent.com

SATURDAY 26 JUNE
GROTTA, GOZO CLUB NIGHT
FEATURING TOP INTERNATIONAL GUEST AND LOCAL DJS PIERRE CORDINA, TONY TONY, JJOY

Regarded as many as one of the most beautiful open air clubs in the Mediterranean, with its dramatic backdrop of Xlendi Valley and its history of great parties, La Grotta is by far the clubbing sensation of the Maltese Islands. With its amazing cave and wicked atmosphere, this venue is a must for anyone visiting the island of Gozo… and definitely not to be missed during the Malta Music Week.
Doors Open: 10.00pm – 4.00am
Entrance: €10.00
www.g7events.com
www.lagrottaleisure.com

SUNDAY 27 JUNE
THE MALTA MUSIC WEEK LIVE CONCERT – BUGIBBA
FEATURING TOP LOCAL BANDS AND DJS

The Bugibba square will be transformed into a live musical arena with an array of Malta’s best musical talent performing live on the night. Fire jugglers and other street attractions will also be performing.
From: 9.00pm – 12.00am
Entrance: FREE
www.g7events.com

MONDAY 28 JUNE
CREAMFIELDS MALTA 2010 – TA’ QALI
FEATURING DJS: ERIC PRYDZ, FERRY CORSTEN, PETE TONG, DUBFIRE, DAVE CLARKE, NIC FANCIULLI, DAVIDE SQUILLACE

Creamfields will be back in Malta this summer on the 28th of June (eve of a Public holiday) as part of the Malta Music Week 2010. Cream UK shall be delivering the Biggest and Best dance festival line up ever to be staged in Malta, securing a whole host of exclusive and fresh performances from the best of the best that dance music has to offer in the respective genres covering Trance, House, Progressive, Tech-house and Techno.
From: 6.00pm – 4.00am
Entrance: E35 – E40
www.g7events.com
www.creammalta.com

TUESDAY 29 JUNE
LIVE MUSIC AT PACEVILLE
FEATURING TOP LOCAL BANDS AND DJS

Paceville will be given a different theme by having live music from some of Malta’s most established bands and upcoming music talent. Set in the heart of Malta’s nightlife location.
From: 9.00pm – 12.00am
Entrance: FREE
www.g7events.com

ISLE OF MTV MALTA SPECIAL
30 JUNE
Time: 7:00pm. Address: Granaries (Fosos), Floriana.

MTV in collaboration with the Malta Tourism Authority is rocking the island once again with the now regular, and much anticipated (4th) Edition of Isle of MTV Malta Special. The free open air event has become one the high points of the European summer gig music circuit, and now draws crowds to the islands from overseas. This year sees: Kid Rock, Scissor Sisters and Kelis among the big names. Audience should number around 50,000!

All details on the Isle of MTV Malta website.

A clan of loud rugby lads chant “Freddie Portelli! Freddie Portelli! Morru ’l hemm” while chugging down their beers. The rest of us watch bemused as we wait for what’s promising to be a night of raw musical talent in Malta. And there’s no sign of the iconic Freddie Portelli either.

It all happened last Wednesday at Hacienda, in Baystreet, Paceville. A night called “Lucinda presents”, where Lucinda herself never turned up, organised to showcase three up-and-coming Maltese bands.

The night kicked off with Ninu & Amber. Ninu walks on stage casually swinging a guitar and shy little Amber trots behind him for their first ever public performance. As soon as the first song kicked off, we realised that Amber can really belt out a tune from her petite little frame. Despite some minor technical hiccups, the band deliver a crowd-pleasing set of contemporary indie-alternative covers. Five Years’ Time by Noah & the Whale and New Romantic by Laura Marling were my personal favourites, each given an original twist by Amber’s signature voice and Ninu’s guitar. Amber’s broken voice is very reminiscent of front line acts such as Florence & the Machine, the Yeah Yeah Yeahs and Bat for Lashes. All this was very pleasantly welcomed by the crowd, if slightly overshadowed with cheers from an enthusiastic group of 50-somethings, probably composed of Ninu & Amber’s relatives and their entourages. All in all, two thumbs up considering it was their first, and what promises not to be their last, performance.

Next up were Vinnie Vintage, a band that simply oozes character. 4 lovable boys, brought together since school sharing one common love: making music. With a loyal fan base and a few successful performances behind them, Vinnie Vintage delivered what the crowd came for. Playing originals such as Cool Shoes, Barmen are Detectives and Sea to the Salt, the Vinnie Vintage came to what seemed an abrupt end, leaving the crowd baying for encores. The Vinnies came back with a wonderfully energetic performance of White Stripes’ Fell in Love with a Girl.

The final act of the night was Dolls for Idols. Already on the scene for a few months, I had heard a lot about this band, but never made it to their gigs. Looking around I see they already have a loyal fan base. Four lanky Jim Morrison lookalikes trudge onto the stage. Within a few minutes they are shouting for another microphone. That’s when I knew these guys have attitude. Within seconds of the first tune, I’ve joined the moshing crowd at the front – these guys rock! Playing originals such as Billy Bangs and Through the city at night, their set came to end, giving my legs a well-deserved, brief, rest, before handing the baton over to The Wizard for an amazing DJ set featuring a cross over between alternative, electronic and nu-rave hits to leave us all dancing till our legs could dance no more.

So forget America’s Got Talent and its various spin offs: last Wednesday was definitely Malta’s Got Talent’s turn. As yet undiscovered by record labels and unknown to most marketing people, these three acts definitely have what it takes to be up there. Remember – you read about them first here!

Follow Vinnie Vintage and Dolls for Idols on MySpace.

Photo: Chris Farrugia

Markus Schultz - all set for Creamfields, 15 August.

Markus Schulz has built himself a stellar reputation as one of the global leaders in production as well as a world renowned DJ. His own label, Coldharbour Recordings has delivered over 60 A-list releases within three years. Originally from Germany, Markus moved to the USA aged 13 and quickly become engrossed in the break-dancing scene of the time. He’s currently listed at number 8 in the prestigious DJ Mag Top 100 DJ poll 2008 – a position no doubt set to rise.

Markus brings his unique brand of progressive and melodic trance to Malta when he headlines Creamfields on the 15 August. In this exclusive interview with Malta InsideOut, we get some insights into the man behind one of the hottest DJs in town:

What was your favourite record as a child?

The first record I ever bought was Zapp – “More Bounce To The Ounce”, believe it or not that was one of my favourite songs and I convinced my father to buy it for me.

Your music is described as dark, melodic, dance music. How would you describe it?

I would agree with the dark and melodic part – it’s a good way to describe it. I’ve always been more into those kind of melodies as opposed to the big over the top superstar riffs, and I think that’s why I’ve gotten so much attention. I’m kind of the anti-trance, trance guy!

You’re a veritable globe-trotter. Have you visited Malta before? Tell us two things you know about the island.

I’ve been to Malta before and I had a great time, I really look forward to playing there as I don’t think many people remember the last time I was there! Good friends of mine come from there and they are always telling me how much of an amazing place it is!

When do you know that a gig is going really well? What’s the perfect vibe?

I know a gig is going really well when I see more and more people hanging around the DJ booth. People seem to want to be around the decks when the party is going off.

When did you find out you were afraid of heights? What else scares you?

I’ve always been afraid of heights ever since I can remember. It’s always been a problem for me not being able to enjoy things that other people do like roller coasters. In fact I never used to fly on airplanes till I started DJ’ing and started being booked in different places – it was quite a thing for me to overcome! Snakes and rats are the other things that scare me.

What’s the upside and downside of travelling the world? And how do you slow down?

Having to deal with airlines and tourist travelers who slow everything down. It’s one of those things you have to deal with, when I travel I just try and shut myself off mentally and get into a zone where I am focusing on music or the gig I am heading to.

Who do you admire?

Musically or overall? Wow always a tough question… Barack Obama, Nelson Mandella? I can’t pick!

Do you think a small island like Malta can become a feature on the global dance calendar?

I do – I think that the fact that festivals like Creamfields are coming there is a great start and if it is successful you will see a lot more things happening on the island. It’s a beautiful place to go to and there are lots of great fans there – it’s really a case of putting it all together. That’s going to be the key to making the island a regular desitnation.

Beer, wine or fruit juice?

Definitely not beer, I don’t like it. Wine on planes and fruit juice in the mornings. Other than that, water all the other times.

What should we have asked you?

You should have asked me what I am working on at the moment! I am working on my next artist album which I am very excited about – there are some great things down already. When I am making an album I make about 20 tracks and then pick the best 13 to be feature on the album. At the moment 7 are finished, so I may start testing them out in my gigs soon!

Marcus Schulz is on the Main Stage at Creamfields at midnight on 15th August. For more information, check out the Creamfields website.

Les Petits Pilous guide you through the night on 18 July at Tattingers

Following the success of their first edition of the ‘A Night With’ series, Malta music event organisers Squadron are hosting a second edition at Tattingers, Rabat, on 18 July. Guests include new kids on the block, French duo Les Petits Pilous.

Les Petits Pilous was formed by cousins Jean-Pat & Pacey. Although only having kicked off their career recently, the duo is already considered to be one of the brightest talents and the biggest artists on Boys Noize Records following their dance-floor hits “Wake Up” and “Housi”. Les Petits Pilous are the true example of the nu-rave/electro style that’s dominating clubs right now. Playing at some of the best electronic music festivals in the world alongside names such as 2 Many DJs, Justice, Tiga, Boys Noize, and D.I.M.,they are now way up in the charts of techno and electro.

The event will also feature local acts including a warm up by Mathematikal (live show), Junior B, Bjan Jensen, Alex Thomson, and Dale.

More info:
Squadron at: www.squadronmalta.com
Les Petits Pilous on myspace

Tickets can be bought from Squadron’s usual runners and outlets: Dr. Juice, Exit, Fact, Fused, The Hatch and Royal Impact or contact info@squadronmalta.com