Melissa McClelland @ NXNE 2006

Hometown: Toronto, ON 

Background/Composition: Fronting a tight five-piece band, Melissa McClelland slides easily from cocaine-fueled country rock to polite and pretty musical curtsies.

Grade: 81

Comment: McClelland's music was cool, catchy, confident and pretty much any other complementary descriptor that begins with a "C."

Achievement of Rock 'n' RollExpectations
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
Pronounciation: E
Stage Presence: E
Stage Banter: G
Image: G
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: G
Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:  McClelland and her band were relaxed and friendly, developing an immediate connection with the audience. As McClelland belted over the band's cool struttin' tunes, one enthused fans yelled out, "Yeee Haw!" It was awkward.

Musical Analysis
Level Of Participation: E
Problem Solving: E
Teamwork: E
Work Habits: E
Organization: E
Audience Participation: E
Sound: E
Composition: E
Songs: E
Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:  McClelland's got more pipes than a head shop. More importantly, she's effortlessly genuine and compelling, singing swaggering and soulful country-soaked songs that are rich in both melody and observational detail. It's a rare feat to be able to write songs that could fit just as easily in a John Wayne flick as in a Kate Hudson one. If you're worried the other cowboys will laugh when you strut into the saloon to the tune of "Adia," throw this on instead.

Other Skills And Areas Of Interest
Charisma: E
Problem Solving: E
Teamwork: E
Sexiness: E
Haircut: E
Indie Rock Footwear: G
Nods To Disposible Fashion: S
Cool Equipment: E
Level Of Inebriation: S
Actual Ability: S
Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The chemistry between McClelland and guitarist/fiance Luke Doucet was very nice. They are, like, the cutest couple ever! They're totally, like, Toronto's Brad-gelina! I hope they adopt 35 Nicaraguan orphans and then form a family band!