Turbowolf @ CMW 2009

Background/Composition:
Turbowolf flew in from Bristol, England to treat Canada to their thrashy, punk-infused rock party. The quartet combine their rock with noisy synths that don't necessarily follow any format, which may or may not be their intention. The end result is a mish-mash of influences that parts of the U.K. are currently eating for breakfast.

Grade: 74

Comment:
Turbowolf are a hardworking band with a lot of passion and heart, but their U.K. hype didn't seem to cross Canadian waters — at least not at the Bovine. There was a lot of talking during their set and a general sense of apathy, making it hard to follow. Despite this, the band gave it their all and did so successfully with attitude.

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: S
Pronunciation: G
Stage Presence: G
Stage Banter: S
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Turbowolf vocalist Chris G exuded energy and poured his heart and soul into the abrasive set while the other members primarily just stood in the background. Guitarist Andy even faced and sang vocals into the side of the stage, ignoring the audience entirely. Upon talking to them after their set, it was evident they're all charismatic and enthusiastic people, so it's a shame they didn't bring these charming elements to the stage.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Turbowolf are becoming known for their electro-rock music, but when they played it at the Bovine, it just sounded like a lot of noise. The songs lacked structure, making it hard to differentiate between choruses and verses, and many of them ended rather abruptly. It's evident why they've played with such acts as Crystal Castles and Holy Fuck.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The Bovine was not the right Toronto venue for these guys. They would have been better suited for Wrongbar with fellow thrashy dance bands and audience. Some of their MySpace tracks sound like they feature female backing vocals, which should probably be incorporated full-time into this band because it would make a great live addition. Give them the right party and these guys will create madness.