The Creepshow @ CMW 2008

The Horseshoe Tavern

Toronto, ON

on Mar 8 2008

Scott Bryson (CHARTattack)

03/10/2008 9:00am

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: Horror punk? Hellbilly? Yup, they're real genres and yes, The Creepshow have contributed to compilations like The Zombie Night In Canada. Their debut, Sell Your Soul, suggests why they're in this. Intoxicated showgoers should be wary if asked to sign any "eternally binding" contracts.

Grade: 92

Comment: Today's lesson: Some band names have a reason behind them. Sure, it was punk rock, but it was some damned creepy subject matter. Although it pains me to make this admission, this foursome rocked just as hard as White Cowbell Oklahoma, and were the only act I saw all weekend that were responsible for a creditable mosh pit.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Singer/guitarist Sarah Sin was born for the spotlight. She's able convince a crowd to dance or participate in a sing-along with very little effort. When she says she's gonna kill you if you don't do it, you believe her.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
It's not often you see a punk band with an upright bass, but it worked for them. The Creepshow are much more than just a gimmick band. Sure, they sing about zombies, but there's a definite substance to their lyrics. They've realized they're sci-fi/horror geeks and they've embraced it.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
Man, keyboardist The Reverend McGinty was an eerie individual. His hair was three feet tall and he was dressed like a priest. These kids will definitely be standing by themselves in the corner of the gym at prom, but at least they've got each other.