Money Mark @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION:
For real? Money Mark, the fourth Beastie Boy at NXNE? Yep, Mark Ramos-Nishita — the man who, at Live Earth with the Boys, did a "Sabotage" roll over his keyboard like it was a car hood and kept playing — was at the Horseshoe. The novelty of the situation alone was set to make this a memorable performance.

GRADE: 96

Comment:
Who knew? He spends a lot of time goofing around with the Beasties, but Money Mark is a truly talented musician. He prefaced by saying, "We're gonna kick your ass right now," and did he ever (while managing to put a smile on everyone's 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: E
Stage Banter: E
Image: E
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Money Mark put together a well-rehearsed and talented bunch of guys for his backing band. He has an undeniable nonchalance about what he does, but you can tell this man lives and breathes music. This was a real treat to see; the crowd just gobbled it up.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Money Mark's fare was an oddly welcome break from the night's pummeling indie rock. There was something very classic about his set — a little Beatles mixed with a little Paul Simon. It was peaceful, comfortable, and always head-nodding fun.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Bilingual banter! Money Mark was the first and only musician of the night to show off what he learned in French class (admittedly, it was limited to two or three words, but he was making an effort). He should just get those big sunglasses permanently attached to his face because at this point he'd look odd without them.