Fink @ CMW 2007

Background/Composition: The former DJ and producer now parlays his musical ability as a one man, one guitar, singer-songwriter shuck.

Grade: 75

Comment: Hushed tunes are a stark contrastto the seemingly effortless rapid fire guitar work from this one-man outfit, making for anenjoyably dichotomous take on the old solo-acoustic modus operandi.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Perched atopa chair for the duration of his show, Fink still managed to grab my attention withhis flair for inventive finger picking. The down tempo show was peppered with some friendly chit-chat, though from anywhere other thanthe very front of the house, it sounded mumbled and murky, a problem that sporadically plagued the vocals for the entirety of the set.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Fink's stripped-down approach made for a very intimate set. It was engrossing to watch Fink use his guitar to procure a bass line and a melody that seemed to becoming out of two distinct instruments. The brooding acoustic tracks sort ofsmoldered, like an errant ember that's hopped out of the fire with Fink's dark vocal delivery coming off as a less theatric solo-era Chris Cornell.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Besides the fact that Fink's tunes would be better suited for a venue where everyone could have a seat, he's got a clever way with that guitar that ensures each track can rise above some of the more typical cliches that haunt this particular style of music.