Modernboys Moderngirls @ NXNE 2008

BACKGROUND/COMPOSITION: As one of Toronto's most prominent peddlers of raucous dance-punk, Mondernboys Moderngirls' star is on the rise. The band's expanded line-up now includes two back-up singer moderngirls and modernboys on guitar, bass, drums and keyboards.

Grade: 97

Comment: Modernboys Moderngirls remind me a bit of Queen. They're easy on the eye with a flair for the theatrical and they know they're good, but they channel that in a way that's meant to connect with the audience instead of alienate them.

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/NextStep:
Sexy singer Akira Alemany had the crowd eating out of the palm of his hand. He was self-assured, enthusiastic and looked to be having a whale of a time. Bassist Ryan Charkow wins the longest sideburns award, and keyboardist Zemaitis showed that while he wasn't inclined to mug or pose for the crowd, he was capable of unleashing blisteringly fast keyboard solos at a moment's notice. 

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/NextStep:
MBMG delivered their set with precision and passion — it was hard to believe a whole hour had passed when they wrapped up their last song. Whether it was that the band fed off of the crowd's energy or the other way around, needless to say everyone was enjoying themselves both on and off the stage.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/NextStep:
Modernboys Moderngirls were deserving of the midnight headliner slot — they know how to work a crowd and were rewarded with pure adulation from a growing fanbase.