DB Clifford @ CMW 2007

Background/Composition: DB Clifford is a talented singer/songwriter and piano player who has been playing music since he was five. Before the age of 10, he was playing the opera, Carmen. He slowly picked up the bass, guitar and drums in his teen years and went to the CIAM school of music in Bordeaux, France.

Grade: 90

Comment: DB Clifford is a performer and being on stage is exactly where he wants to be. His confidence comes through without being smug about it. There are hints of '70s soul meets the Doobie Brothers, with just enough Hall & Oates-styled blue-eyed soul all wrapped in a neat package with tasteful players by his side.

Achievement of Rock 'n' Roll Expectations
80-100: Exceeds skill and knowledge expectations, i.e. rocked us so hard we peed our pants.
70-79: Achieves required skills and knowledge. Meets rock 'n' roll standard.
60-69: Demonstrates some skills. Approaches rock 'n' roll standard.
50-59: Demonstrates some required skills and knowledge in a limited way.
00-50: Has not demonstrated required skills or knowledge.

Learning Skills: E=Excellent, G=Good, S=Satisfactory, N=Sad Really

Oral And Visual Communication
Eye Contact: E
Pronounciation: E 
Stage Presence: E
Stage Banter: E
Image: G
Appearance: S
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: DB Clifford owns the stage. We're entering his home. After recording his album on his own, playing every instrument and seeking a record label out by himself, Clifford knows how he wants to come across. He interacts well with the crowd and his repartee is sincere. He has enough panache to make you want to listen.

Musical Analysis
Level Of Participation: G
Problem Solving: G
Teamwork: E
Work Habits: E
Organization: E
Audience Participation: E
Sound: E
Composition: E
Songs: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: DB Clifford wants his music to be heard by the masses. He surrounds himself with players who aren't interested in being boastful. All this collective cares about is playing in the pocket, which makes it easier for Clifford to exude his laid-back energy.

Other Skills And Areas Of Interest
Charisma: E
Problem Solving: G 
Teamwork: G
Sexiness: E
Haircut: G
Indie Rock Footwear: S
Nods To Disposible Fashion: S
Cool Equipment: G
Level Of Inebriation: N
Actual Ability: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: DB Clifford is extremely talented and I wouldn't be surprised if I heard his music on the radio in the near future. Is he for everybody? I don't think so. The indie rock kids aren't going to be rushing off to buy his disc and he probably won't get a lot of "street cred." Clifford looks like the type who doesn't mind if he's considered a top 40 artist - he'd be fine with that. He would be an easy shoo-in to open up for the likes of John Mayer.