Ohbijou @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: Originally the bedroom project of singer/songwriter Casey Mecija and her sister Jennifer, Ohbijou have swelled to a healthy seven-member posse who craft grand but delicate chamber pop music.

Grade: 80

Comment: You're making a definitive statement about your band when you put the violin and cello front and centre on stage. It was only 10 p.m., but the Horseshoe was packed for Ohbijou's set.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Ohbijou definitely know how to fill a stage and it was evident that they really enjoy what they're doing. More than once, after songs ended, the trumpet player excitedly pointed to her instrument as if to say, "Oh yeah, I play the trumpet!"

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: While their music was certainly beautiful, the lack of conventional band instruments really hurt Ohbijou in the sound department. At times, they were barely audible over the crowd chatter. A more intimate setting would definitely have produced a more memorable set. That said, it was refreshing to see a NXNE band who relied so heavily on strings.

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: G
Cool Equipment: E
Level Of Inebriation: S
Actual Ability: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Though she doesn't really ooze sex appeal, frontwoman Casey Mecija is a definite talent. That girl can sing.