Arkells @ CMW 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: Arkells were a wonderful change of pace and a welcome breath of fresh air at the packed, sweaty Horseshoe. These Hamilton boys are a little Bruce Springsteen, a little Constantines-ish, but with a sound and presence all their own. It's a real treat to find new bands you like at a CMW showcase, and The Arkells were exactly that.

Grade: 82

Comment: Arkells are everything I like to see in a recent graduate. Confident, comfortable and with a unique voice, their student days may not be far behind them, but these guys are ready to tackle that big ol' scary world out there — and the world had better watch out.

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: E
Image: E
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Casual conversation with a crowd is hard to pull off, but the Arkells succeeded at doing away with pretension and drew in an audience while appearing cool and in control.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
I already compared these guys to Springsteen and the Constantines, so what more could you be looking for? Also, harmonica remains superb when used properly.

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: E
Level Of Inebriation: E
Actual Ability: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
With an album, a tour and some positive press along the way, the Arkells won't be a Hamilton secret for very long.