Public @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: It's a bit of a weird statement for a Toronto band, but the NXNE website says (on their behalf?): "If you like NY/Brit indie rock, you'll like us." They're definitely happy to be at NXNE — the front page of their website proudly displays their conference acceptance letter.

Grade: 92

Comment: At the risk of sounding conceited, these local boys seem too big for me to not have heard of them. Where have they been hiding? They're reminiscent of Hot Hot Heat, back when Hot Hot Heat were good. They've also got a bit of an Interpol-ish swagger.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
I'm always a little leery of singers that don't play an instrument. Can't these guys pick up a tambourine or something? (Sure enough, immediately after I wrote that in my notebook, singer Chris Stopa picked up a tambourine).

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Public have some solid, rockin', well-rehearsed material that's just begging for a major label. At one point, they crossed into Naveed-era Our Lady Peace territory (OLP were actually a decent band in those days) and it was crazily enjoyable. Public could go places.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
You could tell Stopa was enraptured by the music, but his emoting was over the top at times and didn't seem to be alcohol-related.