Memphis @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: Friends and collaborators Chris Dumont and Stars frontman Torquil Campbell formed pop outfit Memphis in 2002. Don't call this a side-project though; Campbell insits they're a full-fledged band.

Grade: 85

Comment: I'll admit it, I get a little excited every time I see a band haul a cello on to a stage. Though Memphis on disc are primarily a two-man show, they had no shortage of instrumentation on this night. It would have been a Stars performance, had there been a female vocalist draped entirely in leather.

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: G
Stage Banter: E
Image: S
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Intent on making sure things got off to a proper start, Campbell stepped to the front of the stage before any music was played and invited everyone to come to the front. He was also responsible for the first joke of the night (albeit a lame one): "In case anyone's confused after walking up and down Queen Street 150 times, we are not Spiral Beach."

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Memphis create a rather unique brand of pop music. It's adult-friendly (though not quite adult contemporary), yet it's also indie enough to be enjoyed by in-the-know hipsters. A full-time saxophone player as well as the cello, as anticipated, added just the right touch to their dreamy songs.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Campbell definitely doesn't worry about wardrobe while engaged in his side projects. His dirty T-shirt and ripped jeans were a far cry from the suit and tie he often adorns for Stars shows.