General Miggs @ NXNE 2007

Background/Composition: These four Brooklynites walk a tightrope between between raw punk energy and sophisticated melodic compositions. Although a lot of the band's promo material makes much ado about a horn player, he was sadly nowhere to be found during this performance.

Grade: 66

Comment:It was surprising to hear a band from Brooklyn with such a decidely untrendy sound. Just when you'd hear a catchy melody or steady beat coming on they'd changed gears completely and head in a different direction. Sometimes this was aggravating, but when they managed to pull it off the music was oddly affecting.

Achievement of Rock 'n' RollExpectations
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: N
Pronounciation: G
Stage Presence: G
Stage Banter: N
Image: S
Appearance: S
Use Of Stage: S

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: General Miggs's hyperactive lead guitarist made up for the rest of the band's stoic intensity. He shouted along to every tune, flailed about the stage and made sweet love to his amp with his guitar. However, when he tried to tell a joke about having sex with your sister, it was obvious they need to keep him away from the mic.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: It's obvious these guys are huge music fans. Although their cover of The Kinks tune "Picture Book" stuck out like a sore thumb amidst the band's aggressive set, it also gave some insight into their penchant for big melodies. And when the lead singer actually gave it, he gave it good, with his strong voice carrying over the band's often cacophonous sound. However, while the odd-time signatures and unconventional song structures made for an interesting listening experience, the intensity was lost on the small crowd for the most part.

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: S

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: I hope these guys start wearing earplugs during their own shows. Although it might detract from their image, especially the lead guitarist with his mohawk, they'd be doing their eardrums a big favour. Or maybe I'm just not punk enough.