Army Girls

Part of what makes Army Girls' live sets so appealing is the sense that you've dropped in on one of the duo's rehearsals. Despite attracting a sizable crowd, singer-guitarist Carmen Elle and drummer Andy Smith were able to keep the intimate vibe with Elle's unabashed self-confidence drawing in the uninitiated. Mugging for the crowd with Chuck Berry-inspired moves -- including some behind-the-head guitar playing -- the pair ripped through their short set knocking off garage pop tracks from their lone EP. Few bands are able to project such self-assurance without coming across as cocky; fewer still have the tunes to back it, making Army Girls a rare gem that are poised for the big(ish) time.