Oh No Forest Fires @ CMW 2008

Background/Composition:
This Toronto four-piece feature former members of Most Serene Republic, Five Blank Pages and Fox Jaws. They're still unsigned, but if they continue to play the way they did at Thursday night's Chart showcase, they won't be for long.

Grade: 86

Comment:
Oh No Forest Fires had the misfortune of playing the 2:30 a.m. time slot, which meant most of the crowd had already left by the time they hit the stage. Those who went home really missed out, as Oh No Forest Fires played one of Thursday evening's best sets.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Oh No Forest Fires blazed a trail of energy across the stage throughout their set. Frontman Rajiv Thavanathan was completely into his performance, as he flailed around the stage while demonstrating his excellent guitar chops. His witty banter kept the crowd involved, and managed to provide self-validation for those who stuck out the night.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Thavanathan wasn't the only key ingredient in Oh No Forest Fires' great performance. Drummer Adam Nimmo proved he's one of Toronto's best drummers as he pounded his kit at a pace so astounding you'd think he was in a speed metal band. That said, the band's vocal skills could be improved, as there's a bit to be desired in that department.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
One of the highlights of the set was an impromptu cover of Kenny Loggins' "Footloose," which the band brilliantly transitioned into The Cure's "Close To Me." It was an additional witty and hilarious turn of events which made the performance all the more worthwhile.