Said The Whale @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: An indie rock band that's free of irony and hipster posing? That's what Said The Whale claim, at least. They've got one of Canada's best band names, mainly because, like "in bed," you can add it to the end of almost any sentence and hilarity ensues... said the whale.

Grade: 80

Comment: As always, the Whalers had an impressive rack of guitars with them. The Rivoli became inexplicably packed as they hit the stage, making their three-day drive across Canada worth the effort. "It rained the entire time," one of them quipped.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
They're still getting the odd Shins comparison, but there are very few similarities between the two bands at this point. Said The Whale have evolved into a raucous rock 'n' roll outfit over the last year. 

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
Dual singers can be a boon or a curse. In Said The Whale's case, the duties traded between Ben Worcester and Tyler Bancroft added an enjoyable variety to their set. By the end, it was hard to decide who was the better vocalist of the two.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
Said The Whale suggested that the best thing about sweating on stage is that it hides gray hair. They also suggested it's cool to be gray-haired in Toronto, which is a debateable matter. They're in their early 20s — why the gray, lads? Worried about fame and fortune already?