Christina Martin @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
This Halifax singer/songwriter plays a brand of folky pop with an attitude, and her sound should soon be garnering her Feist comparisons coast-to-coast.

Grade: 76

Comment:
It's not surprising that Music Nova Scotia's Mike Campbell was gushing over Martin before he brought her on stage. She's a very witty singer/songwriter whose songs are balanced with the right amount of grit and delicate parts, and I'd be surprised if she doesn't end up with a big following.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Martin gets major points for coming on stage and instantly pointing out that "Mike forgot to mention that I'm human and fuck up, just like all of you, so here's a song called 'Temporary Hell.'" This was an incredibly refreshing way for a performer to open a set, and was the only time during Canadian Music Week where I saw a performer with a sense of humour and the willingness not to take themselves too seriously.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Martin's songs are quiet, but there's a lot going on in them. Her voice resembles Kate Bush mixed with Jenn Grant, and it's the kind of voice you can get lost in. It's too bad her set was only three songs.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Martin wore what seems to be the standard female singer/songwriter attire these days: a tank top, boots and jeans. As previously mentioned, Martin's banter and witticisms were unexpected and hopefully garnered her a few new fans on Saturday night.