The Outfit @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: The Outfit are a Toronto four-piece that rips several pages from the book of vintage rock 'n' roll. Despite being without a record label, the band once landed a slot opening for The Killers at Kool Haus and no doubt hopes to one day be headlining their own a gig there.

Grade: 78

Comment: The Outfit ripped through an energetic set that encouraged everything from restrained head-bopping to flat out slam-dancing.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: Frantic frontman Vello Verder fed off the audience throughout the set, seemingly possessed by rock 'n' roll demons. Although the band garnered an impressive turnout, Verder wasn't pleased with an empty space near the front of the stage. So, in true rock 'n' roll form he insisted that all the ladies in the house come and fill it.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: The band whipped through an impassioned set of tightly-wound garage rockers, amping up the energy with each successive tune. Verder's raw vocal delivery captured the most attention, but it was the lead guitarist who carried the band melodically with his infectious six-string licks. At times they came off as The Strokes on speed, and that certainly wasn't a bad thing.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: These guys have obviously been practicing a lot, and I don't just mean their instruments. They've got the look, they've got the attitude and they've got the moves. Although they might not have the charisma or accessibility to break out in a big way, it's easy to envision them becoming one of Toronto's favourite live bands.