Jim Protector @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: They're an infectious and noisy indie rock four-piece all the way from Sweden's less-trendy neighbour, Norway.

Grade: 75

Comment: As if it weren't bad enough that the airline these guys flew in on misplaced all of their gear and baggage, they also had the underdog early slot. They patiently waited for someone, anyone, to show up, but eventually had to launch into their set for fear of missing it altogether. So, it was both heartening and fitting to see the young Norwegians kick out a particularly tight set of aggressive, noisy rockers.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Despite the band's misfortunes, the lead singer wasn't above making cracks at their own expense, joking with the audience that none of them were wearing any underwear on account of their missing luggage. Although they complained about their rental instruments, they hammered on them with reckless abandon.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: These guys like their guitars turned up, way up. Whether they were locking into a post-punk groove or slinging out a bass-heavy dirge, the Protector guys kept it distorted and loud. Not surprisingly, the vocals often ended up buried beneath the wall of noise for most of the performance. They indulged the place in a frenzy of feedback on the finale and went over time, but, hey, they deserved the extra time.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Jim Protector stood up well in their role as the evening's underdogs. Between the warped sounding synth noise, vocoder vocals and searing guitar sound, they proved that they can kick up a big fuss even on rental gear.