Magneta Lane @ CMW 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: I'd like to say that Magneta Lane have been an avid student of rock, but while their touring and festival shows have obviously helped with their live performances, you can't help but wonder why every song they have seems to bring the exact same amount of intensity.

Grade: 75

Comment:To be fair, with an 8:30 p.m. starting slot, Magneta Lane did an admirable job of engaging the crowd and kicking off the night. Recalling Emily Haines and at times Karen O, Lexi Valentine remains the ideal lead singer for this girl trio, even if her screams sometimes feel a bit forced. With a little more variation in their sound, Magneta Lane could still turn into a band worth watching. But they've got to get out of their comfort zone and give us a reason to care.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
Magneta Lane know how to engage their audience. Still somewhat awkward in their approach, the ladies are forever endearing between songs and really give it when they play.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Indie Blondie comparisons aside, Magneta Lane tend to lean towards the dark driving pop sound of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs while retaining a sense of lyrical fragility.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
Magneta Lane haven't really pushed their sound much since they first landed on the scene a few years ago, but when they learn how to mix things up a little bit from song to song, they'll be all over the radio.