Martha Wainwright @ CMW 2000

Hometown: Montreal

Background/Composition: Martha on vocals/guitar. Her cousin Laurie on back-up vocals and occasional bass. There was also a keyboard player, bass player, drummer and a guy on vibes.

Achievement of Rock 'n' Roll Expectations
80-100: Band exceeds skill and knowledge expectations. Rocked us so hard we peed our pants.
70-79: Band achieves required skills and knowledge. Meets rock 'n' roll standard.
60-69: Demonstrates some skills. Approaches rock 'n' roll standard.
50-59: Band demonstrates some required skills and knowledge in a limited way.
Below 50: Band has not demonstrated required skills or knowledge.

Grade: 80

Comment: Martha shows great performance and singing abilities (not surprising, considering she's the daughter of Loudon and sister of Rufus). She possesses a very strong voice and uses it to great effect, delivering her obliquely drawn songs with lots of poise, passion and panache.

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

Oral And Visual Communication
Eye Contact: E
Pronunciation: E
Stage Presence: E
Stage Banter: E
Image: E
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: G
Strengths/ Weaknesses/ Next Step: Martha seems very comfortable onstage. She handled the industry crowd admirably. After switching guitars, she asked the crowd, "Does this guitar sound better? Ah, what do you know, you're industry people, you just write cheques," then added wryly, "though none of them seem to be coming my way." Top marks for witty banter.

Musical Analysis
Cooperation With Others: E
Level Of Participation: E
Problem Solving: E
Teamwork: E
Work Habits: G
Organization: G
Audience Participation: G
Sound: E
Composition: E
Songs: E
Strengths/ Weaknesses/ Next Step: Though her guitar skills are a little rough, Martha's songs, her voice and her delivery more than make up for it. Her band provided wonderful support, sounding a little loose, but always there. You can almost imagine her label reps saying "Great songs, Martha, but we don't hear a single." Screw them. Hey, the girl was sweating like Otis Redding! Luv it.

Other Skills And Areas Of Interest
Charisma: E
Sexiness: E
Haircut: G
Indie Rock Footwear: G
Nods To Disposible Fashion: S
Cool Equipment: G
Level Of Inebriation: G
Actual Ability: E
Strengths/ Weaknesses/ Next Step: Martha's a very compelling performer. The sky's the limit for this very charming and talented songstress.