The Ghost Is Dancing @ CMW 2009

The Silver Dollar Room

Toronto, ON

on Mar 13 2009

Scott Bryson (CHARTattack)

03/14/2009 12:35pm

Background / Composition:
Not many people would bother to argue that The Ghost Is Dancing aren't Toronto's happiest pop band. They're notorious for filling stages with more musicians than any group would consider sane.

Grade: 92

Comment:
The Ghost Is Dancing had a lite-brite panel with their name written on it. It was the single greatest achievement of the night. The Silver Dollar was still at least half full for this 2 a.m. set and nearly everyone was going wild. It was the most dancing I've seen at a Toronto show in several years.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Singer/guitarist Jamie Matechuk should be held up as an example for proper bantering. He comes off as the nicest guy on the planet and his unbridled enthusiasm would put even Ned Flanders to shame.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
At least 50 per cent of Ghost Is Dancing shows have been ridiculously shambolic. On this night, it was evident they have their shit together and they're ready to kick some ass with their upcoming sophomore full-length. All of the night's songs (save "Wall Of Snow" and "We'll Make It") were new, and they all sounded great.

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: G
Level Of Inebriation: E
Actual Ability: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
By mid set, keyboardist Odie Ouderkirk (whose other duty is "looking good"), was down to only his underwear. It was tight underwear. Before long, bassist Eric Krumins was shirtless and the crowd eventually goaded Matechuk into removing his top as well.