Staggered Crossing @ NXNE 2000

Hometown: Toronto, ON

Background/Composition: A melodic, radio-friendly five-piece who just recently signed a deal with Warner.

Achievement of Rock 'n' Roll Expectations
80-100: Band exceeds skill and knowledge expectations. Rocked us so hard we peed our pants.
70-79: Band achieves required skills and knowledge. Meets rock 'n' roll standard.
60-69: Demonstrates some skills. Approaches rock 'n' roll standard.
50-59: Band demonstrates some required skills and knowledge in a limited way.
Below 50: Band has not demonstrated required skills or knowledge.

Grade: 79

Comment: These guys put on a tight live set reminiscent of Winnipeg alt.rockers The Watchmen. All members are definitely strong musicians, playing their asses off for the hometown crowd. This, combined with solid vocals, makes up a contingent that will produce good, generic, middle-age rock in typical Warner Music fashion.

Learning Skills: E=Excellent, G=Good, S=Satisfactory, N=Sad Really

Oral And Visual Communication
Eye Contact: G
Pronunciation: G
Stage Presence: G
Stage Banter: S
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G
Strengths/ Weaknesses/ Next Step: Getting the crowd into the music was easy for these Horseshoe regulars. They are obviously well-rehearsed and have secured a semi-loyal following around town. The lead singer works the crowd well, jumping around like Eddie Van Halen on speed, but this also adds an element of frommage.
Musical Analysis
Cooperation With Others: G
Level Of Participation: G
Problem Solving: n/a
Teamwork: G
Work Habits: E
Organization: G
Audience Participation: E
Sound: G
Composition: G
Songs: G
Strengths/ Weaknesses/ Next Step: Some songs went a little long, as the lead singer enjoys tricking the crowd with final crashes, but the alt.country meets alt.rock is a cool mix. I'd say with some more practice these guys should put out a good album - maybe two. I don't think top 10 is in the stars, but they're doing something right; they're signed.

Other Skills And Areas Of Interest
Charisma: G
Sexiness: G
Haircut: G
Indie Rock Footwear: S
Nods To Disposible Fashion: G
Cool Equipment: G
Level Of Inebriation: n/a
Actual Ability: G
Strengths/ Weaknesses/ Next Step: Two things: one, the guitarist needs to shed the Blue Rodeo look, and two, the lead singer needs to avoid sporting the "wife beaters." These fashion tips may prove valuable if these guys want to be accepted by the younger mainstream market. Essentially, all they have to do is look to their left and check out the bassist.