Triple Cobra @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: Scarves! Glitter! Flying V guitars! Showgirl backup dancers!

Grade: 95

Comment: Between Triple Cobra and Semi Precious Weapons, it's obvious that American glam is making yet another comeback. I'm giving more of a nod to these guys, though, since their wickedly catchy tunes will give them an edge in sustaining a long career of rocking out with their cocks out — literally.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Now this was an attention-grabbing set from all corners: co-ordinated band outfits, a white-clad and lipstick-smeared frontman who got shirtless after one song, and those awesome backup dancers (choreographed routines with props and all!). They didn't put on the expected airs of pretension that such a spectacle would usually involve. Instead, singer Attiss Ngoval sounded genuinely thrilled with Toronto and the crowd. We like people who like us.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
All the glittering scarves in the world wouldn't be able to hide crappy tunes, but fortunately, Triple Cobra specialize in both style and substance. This was catchy, thumping sleaze rock that sounds like it comes more from LA than San Fran, and would make for perfect music while speeding down a highway. They are probably the only band I heard at NXNE this year that inspired me to check out their MySpace page afterwards to hear more tunes.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Seriously, I think more bands need Vegas-quality go-go dancers singing backup and performing hilariously awesome routines around the band members. Any band that puts that much effort into their showcase gets a thumbs-up in my book — even people outside during their smoke breaks were praising Triple Cobra. Now that's what it takes to be memorable.