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The Mentawais have given a lot to surfers; now it's time to give something back. Kate and Luke Gerson celebrate the beauty of these islands and highlight the continued need for aid following the recent earthquake.

From WQS warrior to independent filmmaker via a AUS$27,000 debt, Johnny Abegg has trod an unconventional path through life so far, and proves that a relentlessly positive outlook and upbeat character can see you through the toughest times... Words: Mark Sankey Photos: Johnny Abegg

Devastated by more than a decade of civil war, the Republic of Liberia is still in a serious state of flux. Could surfing bring a new hope and more peaceful future to this West African nation? Words & photos: Nicholai Lidow & Kate Thomas. Additional photos: Ted Grambeau & Jamie Bott

Al Knost is one of the best sliders around and has a close connection with a scene far removed from the modern marketplace hustle. Ryan Tatar tracked him down with his project partner Tyler Manson and gave us an insight into their freshest work. Words: Ryan Tatar Photos: Jamie Bott & Tyler Manson

Bing Copeland was a pioneer of the modern surf industry. In his excellent new retrospective, ‘Bing Surfboards – Fifty Years of Craftsmanship and Innovation’, Paul Holmes discovered what makes Bing tick. Words: Bing Copeland & Paul Holmes Photos: Courtesy of Bing Copeland

The annual Fish Fry on Australia's Gold Coast gives shapers a non-commercial, non-competitive opportunity to come together and share ideas in a shameless celebration of the fabulous fish. Words: Tommy Leitch Photos: Jamie Bott

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Old skool recycled ear tonic

September 13, 2009 | Words By: richard esq

rw-hedges-openerIf you’ve had the pleasure of hearing RW Hedges then you’ll know exactly where I’m coming from, and kinda where he is! (Photos: Cheryl Davies)

RW and I first crossed paths on a musical mis-match, and at the time – being a well-educated DJ of the crate-digging variety – I had a lot more knowledge of the old school than he thought! Comparing great breaks, 7’s and songs that people don’t really care about anymore, we educated and re-educated each other to a point where we knew we were on common ground. With RW, the history and influence of the old style and days gone by isn’t some retro movement to gain recognition among industry folk, but has been his upbringing, his security, and it shows in his music.

photo-cheryl-davies‘Almanac’ is his debut album and, in my eyes at least, it sits very well in this collage industry! Trust me, you will not be disappointed – it frequents my iPod and gramophone most days. I had the pleasure of singing on some tracks, so it’s close to my heart…

To speak to the man himself, for iTunes links and tour dates check out RW on MySpace.
There’s a great review by a superb author here.

Here’s the video for ‘Abe’s Dream’ – look out for the smallest left-hander reeling at the very end…

Lunch is on me next time RW!

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