Tamara informed us that she does not have any Amy tattoos and does not lead an Amy Winehouse lifestyle (Phew!) however her voice has those distinctive Amy Winehouse undertones. Tamara is not solo in her act as there are another six members of this tribute act. These guys will give you more than a bit of rehab as they are prone to throw in a bit of funk, motown and soul. These guys are playing at venues all around the province so if you want to see the next best think to Amy Winehouse, check these guys out. GTB are major fans and you can become a fan too by adding these guys on facebook.
Next up we spoke to up and coming fashion designer Emma Manley who at the impressive age of 23 is launching her own debut collection, Manley. Emma's love for fashion began at an early age, perhaps even birth, as her mum was also a fashion designer. After her school years Emma did a foundation in Fashion and Textile Design. From there she went to the Grafton Academy and from there to the bright lights of New York at the tender age of 21 where she got an internship with a luxury sportswear company called VPL. On completion of her intern Emma then found herself in London working with renowned fashion designer Alexander McQueen. Emma described how the fashion in New York is a million miles away from the fashion in London but interestingly found New York a much calmer place to work.
Emma's debut collection includes alternative evening wear and contemporary separates. Her current collection includes all types of fabrics such as silk, pigskin, silk chiffon and jersey. Emma constantly strives to create pieces of 'timeless beauty'. GTB really love all of the Manley pieces and have no doubt that Emma Manley is one to watch in 2010.
Emma Manley's collection is available from The Loft in The Powerscourt Centre or you can contact her directly, emma.kate.manley@googlemail.com. You can also become a fan of Manley on facebook to see the debut collection.
GTB then had a chat with Peter Mannion, the president of The Union of Students in Ireland as the USI is calling for full transparency on how third- level registration fees are being spent by the universities of Ireland. Peter informed us that more and more students are coming to the USI for advice on financial aid. Many students are financial difficulties securing bank loans to finish their students and as a result have no choice but to drop out.
