The Acorn @ CMW 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: This Paper Bag five-piece ditched electronic bedroom recording a while back for full, atmospheric, rootsy indie rock. Think Califone fronted by My Morning Jacket's Jim James.

Grade: 87

Comment: Plants & Animals were a tough act to follow, but The Acorn's soaring sound kept the sizable midnight crowd entertained.

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
Pronunciation: E
Stage Presence: E
Stage Banter: N
Image: S
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step: 
I just have to throw this out there: The Acorn's Rolf Klausener was the only musician who played Thursday night whose banter was booed. I think the frontman was just trying to be jovial, but all of his jokes came out with a thud. He and the rest of the band were otherwise entirely engaging and likeable. But really, it's time to practice your stage communication when it gets you booed. I'll add that while they kept the room's energy level high after P&A, they didn't have a particularly memorable image. I can remember what Klausener looked like, but I couldn't pick the rest of the group out of a lineup.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
There's certainly nothing wrong with The Acorn's music. It's all bouncy and poppy and the crowd's enthusiasm built consistently throughout their set (as did the size of the audience; more than a few curious onlookers moved forward as the set went on). I'd say the only issue is that there's a dearth of bands who sound like them right now. Bon Iver immediately come to mind, and their buzz is off the charts.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
I was pleasantly surprised by The Acorn. I was only familiar with their Tin Fist EP and I can't say I'm a huge fan of it. Given that most of this set was derived from their Glory Hope Mountain full-length, I'll definitely give it a chance when I have a minute.