The Darling DeMaes @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
The Darling DeMaes are generating some major buzz in their hometown; if Montreal is still the next Seattle, we should probably be keeping our eyes on them. They were reportedly named after a Czech diver who became a porn star and then died of a brain tumour "at the rock 'n' roll age of 27."

Grade: 84

Comment:
Singer/guitarist Erik Virtanen announced that this was technically the DeMaes' first show in Toronto. They'd been once before, but they were "a different band then." They described their 2007 debut EP as "percussionless," which may explain what he was on about. They're currently a curious mix of rock, pop, country and folk.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
They were an exceptionally cordial bunch and thanked the Silver Dollar audience endlessly. It's a bit of a redundant thing when you're talking about this venue, because the stage is practically in the middle of the crowd. But The Darling DeMaes were definitely aware that they had patrons to cater to and that gesture's always welcomed.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Instrumentally, this foursome are incredibly sound, but their vocals left something to be desired. Both vocalists (Virtanen and glock player Tasha Cyr) were singing so softly that they were often barely audible. Virtanen seemed to be forcing himself to sing in falsetto. Fortunately, their music was fun enough that it carried the show on its own.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Gossip wire: Sources report that there's something going on between Cyr and drummer Sami Kizilbash. There were a number of furtive glances and smiles exchanged between the two during the DeMaes' set.