Woodpigeon @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: Calgary's hetero Hidden Cameras packed the stage with their eight-piece orchestral folk party. You can't spell multi-instrumental collective without xylophone, violin, keyboard, plus many shakers and tambourines. The horns had to stay at home, unfortunately, as they don't travel easily and they probably wouldn't have fit on the crowded stage at the Drake.

Grade: 79

Comment: If you were at the Drake on Thursday night, chances are you were there to see Woodpigeon. Calgary's homegrown folk collective have generated a lot of buzz for their unusual lyrics (love songs about ninjas anyone?) and lengthy song titles. Their Toronto debut wasn't disappointing, but neither was it amazing. Some sound troubles made it difficult to hear the lyrics, so while I enjoyed the show, I was left feeling like there was little that I hadn't seen before.

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: G
Pronounciation: G
Stage Presence: G
Stage Banter: E
Image: E
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Woodpigeon's lyrics are supposed to be what separate them from the growing number of sprawling folkestra bands. Unfortunately, I couldn't make them out thanks to a poor sound mix and the people beside me talking about their hotel room. The backing vocals and harmonies were superb, however. I'd like to see Woodpigeon again in a quieter setting.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The talented musicians played tight and together for the whole set. The bass was a little too loud, though. At times it obscured the quieter instruments like the violin and xylophone. Without the lyrics Woodpigeon's songs didn't offer much to distinguish them from similar acts like Sufjan Stevens. They put a smile on my face, but couldn't quite get to the love in my heart.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Frontman Mark Hamilton had a quiet charm about him. His personality felt as warm as a thrift store cardigan when he told stories about "Canada's Buddy Holly" and dedicated a song to the victims of the Titanic. I was puzzled by a music stand at the front of the stage. Do Woodpigeon use sheet music for their own songs? Maybe it was just a set list.