| Carmen & Camille, an indie pop-rock duo based in Vancouver, Canada are set to tour with Armed Forces Entertainment, performing for troops in Egypt and Greece October 20 – November 1.
“It’s always been a dream of ours to perform for the troops,” says Camille Thomas, half of the dynamic pop duo. “They probably need it more than other people.”
Carmen and Camille Thomas have dual citizenship with the United States and Canada, and appreciate the opportunity to perform for troops from both countries. The pair performed for Canadian troops in Dubai earlier this year, and have some experience to draw upon for their first tour with Armed Forces Entertainment in Egypt and Greece. “With this tour,” Camille explains, “we get a chance to travel and perform for people who really appreciate it,” which made working with Armed Forces Entertainment a huge draw.
Though their experience with Canadian troops might give them some idea of what to expect on this tour, Carmen says, “we’re going with no expectations, because it’s exciting to just see what happens.” One thing is certain; they know they will play more shows per week than they’re used to, but she continues, “that’s cool because that’s why you’re there is to play music and perform for different people.”
The girls like all of the challenges of songwriting and performing, and hook audiences with catchy lyrics and a energetic stage presence. “Writing is so personal and introspective; it’s a challenge to think of new ways to create,” says Camille. “But performance is very active, so it’s a different kind of challenge altogether.” Both Carmen and Camille cite Sheryl Crow as a songwriting influence, appreciate “old school Heart,” and love Gwen Stefani as a tireless and captivating performer.
“The energy that Carmen & Camille bring to their stage performances will be a huge morale boost for the troops,” says Navy Lieutenant Jarod Trujillo, Armed Forces Entertainment circuit manager for Europe and the Mediterranean. “Their music is pure fun.”
Carmen & Camille are looking forward to playing solid covers of favorites that everybody loves, as well as songs from their album “Two” and a sneak preview of their new album, due out next year. “It’s good to bring a taste of home with us,” says Carmen. “People like covers because they want to dance and sing along to songs that are familiar, and that’s fun.”
The girls have been featured on MTV’s TRL, The Hills, Newport Harbor and My Super Sweet Sixteen, and Music Plus TV, FOX networks and Billboard Underground, as well as in Elle Girl, Seventeen, Billboard and Stuff Magazine. But, their upcoming tour with Armed Forces Entertainment touches a special cord that is near to their hearts.
“It’s just the right thing to do,” says Carmen. “It feels right, and we get to share our music with so many people you wouldn’t otherwise have a chance to reach.”
To learn more about Carmen & Camille, visit www.carmenandcamille.com.
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Armed Forces Entertainment is the lead Department of Defense agency for providing entertainment to U.S. military personnel serving overseas, with priority given to those in contingency operations and at remote and isolated locations. The Department of the Air Force is the executive agent of Armed Forces Entertainment.
Founded in 1951, Armed Forces Entertainment brings a touch of home to more than 500,000 troops annually, embracing the best of Americana that stretches across all genres of entertainment. Visit www.armedforcesentertainment.com for more information.
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