Spiral Beach @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: Spiral Beach are a group of four tiny, fun-loving whiz-kids. They've made a strong name for themselves around Toronto over the last couple of years with their dual vocal charm, bundles of energy, and a sound that's mature for their age.

Grade: 93

Comment: It seems as if that guitar you beg for when you’re 11 really does pay off. These kids are screaming with talent, and definitely know how to put on a show and be smart about it.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
I have never met anyone who doubts Spiral Beach’s stage show. It seemed as if they held back at times because the set was being broadcasted on CBC Radio 3. But at other times, they would forget about that and just have fun with a crowd that was a mix of their usual party-going, doting fans from school and industry types. Drummer Daniel Woodhead was lost in the excitement of what the other three were doing, but he was undoubtedly their backbone. But maybe let him in a little bit more next time, guys! 

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Spiral Beach's sound fits together almost too well, since they're a band who've been a solid unit while braving school, friends, and everything in between. Vocalist Maddy Wilde knows how to belt it out. Bassist Dorian Wolf and vocalist/guitarist Airick Woodhead were class clowns who couldn’t stop moving to their own beat, and the show was all about them. A highlight was during “We Saw Ghosts” when Wilde and Airick Woodhead teamed up on one mic for dual vocals and everything was kicked up a notch from there. 

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step: 
Again, Spiral Beach's charisma could have filled two venues by the time the set was over. It would have even been stronger if Wilde looked a little more into it, but the team was definitely led by Wolf and Airick Woodhead. The kids weren’t dressed for a fashion show, but of course they left a mark, especially with Wilde’s cute Sonic The Hedgehog shirt and his crazy hair which flopped with each bounce around the stage.