We Are The Take @ CMW 2009

Background/Composition:
Tthis unsigned Toronto quartet meanders from up-tempo rock to thoughtful, piano-laden pop tunes, falling somewhere between Oasis and The Arctic Monkeys.

Grade: 70

Comment:
We Are The Take had the unfortunate job of opening the night, playing in front of a sparse crowd more interested in the bar than what was happening on stage. Despite having no more than three people on the floor in front of them (with everyone else lined around the back of Lee’s), they attempted to bring some energy to the night. They succeed at points, but looked liked they needed more fan participation to really let loose.

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: N
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: N

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The four guys seemed more at ease playing to themselves than the crowd. Erik Alcock’s voice came across strong and vibrant when he sat at the keyboard, facing the middle of the stage. However, that quickly changed when he fronted the group with a guitar in his hand. Singer/guitarist Craig Strickland seemed poised to really show his emotions throughout the set, but as he stepped to the front of the stage, he merely glanced out for a few seconds before stepping back. He had many opportunities to engage the crowd, but let them pass. Learning showmanship, while still being themselves, has to be on their "to do" list.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The interlaced vocals between Alcock and Strickland worked really well, with a quiet falsetto fluttering to complement the main melody. But it was bassist Andrew Hobbs' understated presence that really kept this band focused musically. He was statuesque, but commanded everyone’s attention as he slid up and down the neck creating thoughtful bass lines. Instilling that persona into the rest of the band, along with the energy that drummer Kevin Sommerville displayed near the end of the set, would take them that much further.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
With all of their attention on getting through their set and trying to get the crowd interested, there wasn’t much else they included to hook the audience. They showed great potential and tracks such as "Montreal Love Song" really stuck out, but didn’t have that certain je ne sais quoi that'd make someone rush home to spread the word.