In-Flight Safety @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: Though their name would suggest they're a cautious bunch, this Maritime foursome have proudly adopted the slogan, "Breaking acoustic guitars since 2003."

Grade: 81

Comment: Just when you thought formal dress was on its way out, along come In-Flight Safety with an attempt to bring ties back in fashion. They produced some larger than life pop on this night, but it all seemed a little too cookie-cutter clean. There were definitely a few gems, though, including an unrecorded song called "I Need To Be Alone." Watch out for that one; it'll hook you for sure.

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: It's obvious that these lads are all highly skilled musicians and they're definitely not strangers to the stage. If someone had been present with DV cameras, this show would have been the perfect opportunity for them to film some live videos.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The foursome sound like they'd be right at home in a stadium beside the likes of U2, but it's clear that they enjoy smaller venues as well. Their music is epic, and they've obviously got a substantial following — the Horseshoe was still absolutely packed when they took the stage at 1 a.m.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The ladies in the audience certainly seemed enthralled by this performance. The cougar level was high, suggesting we may have some new heartthrobs on our hands.