Carmen And Camille @ CMW 2009

Bovine Sex Club

Toronto, ON

on Mar 12 2009

Sheena Lyonnais (CHARTattack)

03/13/2009 12:17pm

Background/Composition:
Carmen And Camille are a Vancouver-based pop-rock duo who have had songs from their debut, Two, featured on The Hills and recently worked with producer Howard Redekopp (Mother Mother, Tegan And Sara) on their latest EP, Don't Play Me Out. Carmen brings the country side and plays flute, keyboard and tambourine, while Camille is more rock 'n' roll with her guitar and sultry yells. On stage, they're joined by a four-piece backing band that add just enough dimension to help.

Grade: 74

Comment:
While the girls are undoubtedly talented, they showed an obvious dissatisfaction with the small 9 p.m. crowd that could've be misinterpreted as pretension. Luckily, their songs are sweet enough and the duo are talented enough to forgive them. It's easy to see their star quality, but unfortunately it felt like they gave up a little on Toronto during this set and didn't play to their full potential. Still, it was fun to watch and they had some great tracks.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Carmen And Camille entertained the crowd with their quirky stage banter, but it was rather sarcastic and a little anti-Toronto at times. While the spotlight was most certainly on the two girls with great rock 'n' roll hair, sexy boots and leather jackets, it would have been nice if the backing band had gotten more of a chance to shine. Every member seemed almost afraid to let loose, making it awkward to watch. A little more movement and enthusiasm on stage would add a much needed dimension.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Camille stole the spotlight in the last song by suddenly upping the energy and passion tenfold. Her petite frame boasted a huge voice that had remained much quieter throughout the night, subsequently sparking a great fire and ambition in Carmen as well. If this kind of energy had been carried throughout their entire set, it would have been even more successful. Their songs were well constructed and absent of bubblegum pop, showing that these girls have the musical talent to back their looks.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Carmen And Camille's new song "Love On Fire" radiates Kelly Clarkson potential, so it will be interesting to see where these sweethearts take their music. If they had put as much passion into their entire set as they did their fabulously chic outfits, it definitely would have increased their position on the Canadian music radar.