Duchess Says @ CMW 2009

El Mocambo

Toronto, ON

on Mar 12 2009

Aisha Khan (CHARTattack)

03/13/2009 1:35pm

Background/Composition:
This Montreal foursome are self-proclaimed "moog rockers." The lineup includes vocalist and guitarist Annie-Claude, keyboardist and guitarist Ismael, guitarist and bassist Phil and percussionist Simon Says. They can be found on the Tracey Fragments soundtrack, and mandate to "decontexualize" rock while promoting the Church Of Budgerigars.

Grade: 69

Comment:
This band is what would happen if DFA1979 hired a daft banshee lead singer. They played so hard and fast that they made you listen even if you didn't like what you were hearing. Even the most jaded hipster in the room was bopping awkwardly.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
While most of the band concentrated on hitting the right notes, singer Annie-Claude broke into a punked out vogue. She's a force to be reckoned with especially on the disorienting "Tenon Non Neu." Jumping into the audience, she parted the crowd into a curious circle with a few brave patrons ready to dance with her.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
There's definitely more spunk than skill here. The rhythms were a little sloppy, and the melodies a little rough around the edges, especially the guitar work. And no, that's not an artistic choice, this outfit wants to and ought to be tight shit. The vocals have all the potential to be off the wall, but everything still feels in the awkward/unsure/contrived stage.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Asymmetry: Check! Skinny tights: Check! Severe fringes: Check! Whiteboy 'fro: Double check!