The End @ CMW 2007

Background/Composition: The End, a five-piece metalcore band who have often been compared to the Dillinger Escape Plan combine intricate timings and an immense sound with a high-energy live show.

Grade: 76

Comment: The End drew the largest crowd of the night and came set to dominate. However, the vocals were lost in the mix for much of the show, and the long, repetitive song structures killed the interest of those in the pit, which eventually diminished into a circle of kids standing around wondering what to do with themselves.

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
Pronounciation: E
Stage Presence: G
Stage Banter: E
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Vocalist Aaron Wolff resorted to the typical routine of pacing back and forth along the stage, occasionally leaning into the crowd during the "screamy" parts. Other than thanking the crowd for coming, there wasn't too much in the way of banter. The rest of the band essentially remained focused on their instruments, not paying much attention to those who were watching.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The End were loud, which ended up hurting them in the process. The vocals weren't mixed loud enough to compete with the rest of the band, and the interesting tempo changes and intricate guitar work that's so prominent in their recorded music sounded muddled and redundant.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: These guys ended up trying too hard to make an impression. For some reason there appeared to be a keyboard on stage, which was scarcely touched. The singer used a megaphone throughout the show that was barely audible and came across as a gimmick as opposed to a genuine addition to the songs. The End should leave the toys at home and focus on shaking the rafters.