The I Spies @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: The I Spies have long been a favourite of the Silver Dollar crowd. Now they look to parlay Dan Burke's approval and some decent local buzz into something bigger than the sum of the whole. That's a tall order considering this was the band’s maiden voyage into NXNE waters.

Grade: 70

Comment: The I Spies are completely neutral as a band. Their songs are definitely not bad, but they’re also not that good. They are a decent live band, but truthfully, are far from memorable in the big picture. There are just no definitive characteristics to distinguish The I Spies in a very crowded marketplace and considering that I’m struggling with adjectives to describe the outfit mere hours after the band’s performance, you’re left with an ensemble that is unlikely to leave a mark on even the most impressionable soul.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The I Spies are professional and poised on stage, even if this doesn’t translate to the most compelling performance. Their tunes appeared whittled to a T, which allowed for some sharp transitions and good pacing. A bit more enthusiasm probably would’ve worked wonders had The I Spies been able to pull it off.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step: 
If you’re into The Killers or the All-American Rejects, then The I Spies are for you. The band really seems to have mastered the nuances of modern rock songcraft and while their sound isn’t even remotely original, they do have a knack for arrangements and chord progressions that should offer a hug for anyone seeking aural comfort.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step: 
The I Spies were the third consecutive band to feature at least one member wearing a hat, which can only be taken as a positive for the haberdashers amongst the ChartAttack.com readership.