Herman Dune @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
Herman Dune are a Parisian duo with a penchant for cute, intelligent folk-pop. They've been at this for 10 years and their latest disc, Next Year In Zion, has garnered them some serious attention on this side of the ocean.

Grade: 83

Comment:
Herman Dune's set possessed an unmistakable beach party vibe. Someone at the back of Lee's batted a balloon towards the front, but a gaggle of wet blankets in the middle of the bar just let it fall between their feet.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Singer/guitarist David-Ivar Herman Dune is definitely a chatter, and his slightly imperfect grasp of English was enough to keep the crowd smiling through several meandering stories.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Because they were appearing as a duo, Herman Dune's material wasn't nearly as full-bodied as it tends to be on disc. Drummer Neman Herman Dune picked up a lot of the slack, playing shakers and somehow taking the place of a bassist with his drum kit. Their expertise with their instruments is a big part of why these two are continually able to tour the world.

Other Skills And Areas Of Interest
Charisma: E
Problem Solving: G
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:
Herman Dune would be a blast in a smaller bar. Lee's was just a little too big (and packed full of people) for their kind of party.