Matt Charlton @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: After establishing himself as a solo artist around Halifax, Charlton was part of The Prospector’s Union with Christina Martin and In-Flight Safety's John Mullane and Daniel Ledwell. The newly formed quartet hope to have an EP out this fall.

Grade: 85

Comment: I've got to give this guy credit for kick starting The Rivoli’s part in NXNE this year while reppin’ the East Coast without the support of his band from Halifax. He’s your basic crooner, but seems to be down to earth about it. He left the sparse crowd at least with a warmer atmosphere.

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: G
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step: 
As the opener for a very full bill, Charlton didn’t break a sweat. He was bold and stared his small but appreciative crowd in the face. He made conversation, explained some songs, and had that "nice guy" look goin’ on. Sounds like he can handle anything.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step: 
Most of Charlton’s songs were about places such as "Montreal" and "Flaming Death." The latter is a story about a plane trip from Toronto to Halifax where the flight attendant explained in English that they would encounter some turbulence, but said in French that they would have a hazardous landing. Chalton the Travelin’ Man sure taught me more about the East Coast in his lyrically strong set.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Charlton's got that classic East Coast look going for him, but at the same time as he donned a plaid shirt, tight jeans, and played a polished guitar, I managed to keep the word "emo" out of my thoughts.