(G) Isobel Campbell/Neko Case (Troubadour/Amoeba, March 8-9) Grade: B/B+

It was a contrast of female musicians in Hollywood this week, as I went to see former Belle & Sebastian singer/cellist Isobel Campbell at the Troubadour and New Pornographers frontwoman Neko Case at Amoeba Wednesday. Both artists are in town supporting their respective solo releases, and each attracted a respectable crowd—though some might have been more drawn to the women’s music associations.

Keeping in mind the phrase “those scowling Scots,” Campbell and her accompanying band were largely disengaged from the audience and hardly cracked a smile during their set at the Troubadour, as if the performance was a form of torture. Though Campbell kept her dialogue short and turned her back to the audience whenever she had a chance, she eventually warmed up mid-way through, smiling, laughing and appearing to have a good time. Sadly, Campbell’s delicacy transferred to the vocals and often times, she could hardly be heard. Another disappointment was the absence of Ballad of the Broken Seas collaborator Mark Lanegan, which was a shame since the set list was largely comprised from that album. Eugene Kelly substituted for Lanegan and did a suitable job, but his unfriendly demeanor was often intimidating.

Case is at the other end of the spectrum in terms of her on-stage presence. She is bubbly, talkative and generally enjoyable. Departing from New Pornographers ’60s-inspired pop sound, Case’s solo album is very alt-country. But naysayers of that genre will most likely find themselves swept up by Case’s interesting lyrics and impressive vocals. As is usually the case with in-store performances, there is a bit lacking in the sound and atmosphere, but the trade off is the opportunity to see Case for free.