Old Man Luedecke @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: Will a bearded man and his banjo ever find fame in this country? Probably not, but let's hope that doesn't stop Old Man Luedecke from doing what he does best.

Grade: 90

Comment: He's not really an old man, but Chris Luedecke has a way of talking that seems wise and ancient — it's comforting and awe-inspiring at the same time. He also possesses a dry and quick sense of humour, which he exhibited without fail between every song.

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: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
The Old Man is a tremendous storyteller. He relayed a tale of a meeting with his hero, folk musician Pete Seeger, that had the crowd laughing and getting teary-eyed at the same time. Seeger chastised him for the gas he'd used to get to New York and it inspired Luedecke to start writing singalong environmental ballads.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Mid-set, Luedecke explained that he'd recently discovered his left foot. That is, he discovered that his foot works like a drum, so he put a mic on it and started stomping along with his songs. It was the perfect accompaniment and got the crowd stomping before long as well. 

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep: 
Luedecke looked every bit like you'd expect a solo Nova Scotian banjo player to look like: newsie hat, old suit jacket, dress shoes. We'll forgive him for his sobriety because it was early and his complex plucking would have suffered had he been tanked.