Rebekah Higgs @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: It's not often that pretty, electric guitar-playing girls take to the stage at grimy Sneaky Dee's, making Higgs a sight for sore eyes. Taking a break from her role in trip-hop project Ruby Jean And The Thoughtful, the 25-year-old chanteuse, avec backing band, was in town to present work from her solo disc.

Grade: 91

Comment: Higgs had a full band in tow on this night, including a second guitarist and two keyboardists. She demonstrated a surprising yet welcome propensity to rock out, and her alternating between regular and echo microphones was simply mesmerizing. As well, music aside, it has to be said that in person, Higgs is a dead-ringer for Lost star Emilie de Ravin.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: While most singer-songwriter types are content to deliver their material while lost in a hazy world of self-absorption, Higgs seemed no stranger to audience engagement. She started a singalong and actually convinced a few members of the stodgy audience to participate. As well, she's quite skilled at roaming around and flinging her hair about when a song's intensity increases.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: It turns out Higgs isn't just another pretty face. She can sing, write and knows how to wield an axe. Is it too soon to call her the next Feist? It would be interesting to see if this level of quality carries over into her solo sets.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Higgs has all the tools she needs to go a long way in this business.