The Ting Tings @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
The Ting Tings are a British duo best known for their crazy addictive hipster dance tracks like "Great DJ" and "That's Not My Name." Featuring drummer/singer/guitarist Jules De Martino and vocalis/guitarist Katie White, the poppy dancey duo reached #1 in the U.K. for last year's debut album, We Started Nothing.

Grade: 90

Comment:
The Mod Club was packed for this performance, though the crowd was a lot different than I was expecting. There wasn't near as much American Apparel as anticipated, showing The Ting Tings audience is actually quite diverse. It's possible many people in attendance were out specifically to see this show, unaware it was even Canadian Music Week. Having their song "Shut Up And Let Me Go" featured in an iPod commercial definitely had something to do with this.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
This wasn't a balls-to-the-wall rock 'n' roll show, but it was definitely a solid British dance party that was well-received. The performance was incredibly energetic with a lot of clapping and dance-talk, and the pair managed to sound really big for just two people on stage. They may not write anthems, but they put real emotions into songs that everyone can move to.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
One thing that ups The Ting Tings' cred is how good they are musically, especially De Martino. His ability to play a multitude of instruments adds a great dimension, one that too many bands like this leave to pre-recorded tracks. White's guitar playing also adds a real touch, but there was also a lot of music coming from unseen sources. The Ting Tings have their rep as being a dynamite duo, but it might be nice to incorporate these hidden parts into real live humans for the show.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Somewhat disappointing was how The Ting Tings neglected to use the massive bass drum on stage. It looked so unique and tempting and was tested during sound check, but remained more as a decoration during the live show. Nonetheless, people came to this show to dance and have fun, which is exactly what happened. I wasn't disappointed by this set and it was exciting to see them work together to incorporate a lot of rock elements to their live show to set them above others in this genre.