Red Sparrowes @ CMW 2007

Background/Composition: Thundering, majestic post-rock.

Grade: 90

Comment: Making it through the set feels a bit like a marathon, but well worth the effort.

Achievement of Rock 'n' RollExpectations
80-100: Exceeds skill and knowledge expectations, i.e. rocked us sohard we peed our pants.
70-79: Achieves required skills and knowledge. Meets rock 'n' rollstandard.
60-69:Demonstrates some skills. Approaches rock 'n' rollstandard.
50-59: Demonstrates some required skills and knowledge in a limitedway.
00-50: Hasnot demonstrated required skills or knowledge.

Learning Skills: E=Excellent, G=Good, S=Satisfactory, N=Sad Really

Oral And Visual Communication
Eye Contact: N
Pronounciation: N
Stage Presence: N
Stage Banter: N
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Red Sparowes are an entirely instrumental group who don't acknowledge the audience during their set mainly because all of their songs flow seamlessly together, so it makes it awkward to pause and ask, "Are you ready to rawk?" But what they lack in verbal expressiveness, they make up for with striking visuals and, of course, the songs. Which are more like compositions than songs. Sepia-toned images were continually projected onto a large backdrop behind the band throughout the set. There was probably some method to the madness, and it completed the effect and drew attention away from the bunch of guys standing around staring at their shoes while playing guitar.

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: Just before the set started, a guy in the audience yelled, "If you've got earplugs, put 'em in NOW!!" That was really good advice, as Red Sparowes came on stage and pummeled he crowd with a sonic wall of sound. There were a lot of delicate and quiet moments, as well, but these guys really know how to giver. The overall effect of swirling, crashing guitars and drums was pretty hypnotic, but after awhile you feel like you need a break from the intensity.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The higher cover price and strong crowd attendance made it obvious that Red Sparowes have a following. After experiencing their amazing musicianship and hearing an incredibly powerful and stirring set, it's easy to see why. But that dude was so right the earplugs are necessary. Oh yeah, and most of the sexiness points go to one of the guitar players, who also sat in on an extra drum kit for a song. He's smokin' hot.