Machetes @ CMW 2009

Bovine Sex Club

Toronto, ON

on Mar 12 2009

Sheena Lyonnais (CHARTattack)

03/13/2009 2:47pm

Background / Composition:
Toronto's Machetes are four skinny balls-to-the-wall rocker chicks who play dirty, grungey punk music. They've shared the stage with DD/MM/YYYY, Born Ruffians, Woodhands and Semi Precious Weapons, just to name a few, and are managed by Roger O'Donnell, best known for his keyboard work in The Cure, which is pretty bad-ass.

Grade: 77

Comment:
Machetes instantly sucked me in a few months back with their fashionable outfits, tough demeanor and roaring guitars. They exhibit a big, feisty attitude for four petite girls, yet their crowds are always tiny, which leaves me confused. Don't people want to see hot girls play dirty rock 'n' roll? It was actually a decent turn out this time, especially for a 2 a.m. time slot.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Machetes aren't a group to engage in much stage banter, choosing to spend their time tearing through tracks and rocking out rather than being personable. Yet they have this undeniable presence that only four well-dressed chicks in a hot rock band can have. They exude a sexuality on stage between songs about leather and aces that makes up for the dead silence between songs. A little communication and audience acknowledgment would be a welcome addition, though.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Musically, these girls have it, especially guitarist Alana Devee, who can shred like nobody's business. Vocalist Jen Simpson commands the mic, but looked a little awkward when she picked up to join in on guitar for a few tracks. Not only was the guitar huge for her, but it was messy and there was a lot of feedback. Machetes are moving in a good direction though, because more guitar would bulk up their sound. A fun touch was when Lexi Mack sang lead while drumming. It was a nice spice, but it needed a little more practice.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Normally Machetes' entire performance comes across a lot more intoxicated and sloppy, but still really solid and rocking. This time they seemed more tame, which doesn't work as well for them. They're at their best when being abrasive and crazy, running around the stage like maniacs, which they didn't do until the very last track. Some things are better polished, somethings are better left as is. Keep it messy, Machetes!