The Hundreds And Thousands @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
Formerly of Ottawa band Starling, this trio have reemerged as pop-rock outfit The Hundreds And Thousands, donning suits and singing about the daily grind.

Grade: 77

Comment:
The Hundreds And Thousands play catchy pop-rock that is definitely radio-ready. With their debut on the way and a deal with Nettwerk Records, you're going to be hearing more from these guys.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The Hundreds And Thousands looked a little uncomfortable onstage, but were supported by a small yet enthusiastic crowd for their early 8:30 p.m. set. Frontman Ian LeFeuvre sounded somewhat monotone throughout his stage banter, giving mechanical plugs to the band's singles that are available on iTunes and their full-length debut that's due out in May. Letting a little personality shine through would've gone a long way. Maybe they were thrown off from problems they were having with some equipment, which LeFeuvre referenced as a "day of technical surprises."

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
They have a pop-rock sound that goes back and forth between the catchy dance riffs of Franz Ferdinand and that expansive top 40s stadium sound of Kings Of Leon. A slow song mid-set really seemed to drag down the mood.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Dressed in matching suits, these dapper men looked ready for the work-a-day world that they sang about.