Fred @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: Substituting for India's Menwhopause was this Irish power pop band with an equally odd name. They repeatedly mentioned they're from Cork, Ireland, but with his accent it sounded like frontman Joseph O'Leary was saying "quark."

Grade: 77

Comment: It took a few songs, but Fred eventually got my head bobbing and my toe tapping. I noticed these activities right around the time lead guitarist Jamie Hanrahan broke out the cowbell. There really is something about that instrument. Anyway, their familiar pop-rock, bouncing choruses and friendly attitude lifted my heart and put a smile on my face.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Oh, that Irish lilt! An Irishman would have to be a real son of a bitch to not charm the pants off everybody he meets. I actually found myself wishing O'Leary would talk more between songs — not because he was a bad singer, but because he was a great talker. About half way through their set everybody on stage and off seemed to loosen up. By the end of the 40 minutes the wallflowers in the room (there were only wallflowers) were hooting at this random international substitution like they were lifelong fans.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Fred started their set with a series of tight single-beat notes blasted by the entire band. They showed that same air-tight coordination throughout their set with some well-practiced riffs. Their songs were catchy, hard-driving pop; as fun and energetic as the musicians themselves. Fred's music would be an excellent soundtrack for having a few friendly pints.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
This band didn't seem to have any costume strategy or gimmicks (not a huge surprise for a band called Fred). Their jeans and T-shirt image was that of a casual bar rock outfit — appropriate, since that's pretty much what they were. This look matched their affable stage presence and created a relaxed vibe in the room. Watching a band play to a mostly empty bar is usually an awkward experience, but Fred treated us all like we were best friends.