Callahan @ CMW 2009

Bovine Sex Club

Toronto, ON

on Mar 12 2009

Sheena Lyonnais (CHARTattack)

03/13/2009 11:53am

Background/Composition:
This Vancouver melodic hardcore six-piece headed to Metalworks in Mississauga, Ont. in October 2007 to record with producer Julius "Juice" Butty, who's best known for his work with Alexisonfire, City And Colour and Protest The Hero. The proof is in the pudding: A solid hardworking band with a great attitude and a successful producer is bound to do well.

Grade: 86

Comment:
Callahan's dedication to their music and overall appreciation for each other radiates in their live performance, drawing focus to both the music itself and its makers. They began their set with a huddle, something other bands may want to take note of. Their chemistry and talent was obvious and the charisma they brought to the Bovine was refreshing. This is simply a solid rock band that would fit in nicely with the St. Catharines, Ont. scene.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Callahan's frontman Chris Stiles spoke very articulately between songs and promoted positivity, crushing the notions of negativity and encouraging the audience to be happy with where they are. During songs, he encouraged participation and clapping, making the performance much more engaging and involved. This energy was carried throughout by each member, who made excellent use of the stage during the entire set.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
While Stiles' ability to hold the stage was noteworthy, the real magic of Callahan came in the form of guitarists Craig Nielsen and Alan Stokes, who have the ability to create wonderfully melodic rhythms that you could get lost in. Each note tells a story and, when paired with Andy Cole's keyboard work, the result is mesmerizing. The variety of songs and vocal teamwork shows Callahan have a knack for diversity. They need to continue this in order to prevent from getting lost amongst the sea of similar bands.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
While melodic hardcore bands are a dime a dozen, Callahan remains ahead by their sheer talent and dedicated fan base. Young scenester boys and girls packed the front of the Bovine singing along with Stiles into the mic like a basement rock show. Their high energy and ultimately great ability to remain fresh in an over-saturated genre will keep them ahead as long as they maintain originality.