Dave Marsh And The True Love Rules @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
Dave Marsh is the drummer in The Joel Plaskett Emergency. He released his The True Love Rules debut album last year, and The True Love Rules is also the name of his backing band.

Grade: 65

Comment:
Unlike Plaskett's music, Marsh's centres less on folk-rock and more on radio rock.

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: S
Stage Banter: N
Image: S
Appearance: S
Use Of Stage: S

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Marsh is just starting out on his own and many people have a lot of enthusiasm for his music, but he's not exactly an electrifying performer. Yet, at least. I can understand why lots of people would enjoy his music, but he's got to learn to use the stage better. Part of this standing around in front of a mic and not really moving is probably partially attributed to sitting around behind a drum set for his main gig, though.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
It might just be me, but the sound wasn't exactly the greatest during Marsh's set. Maybe it was where I was standing, but I had a hard time hearing his vocals during the set. I liked a handful of his songs, and though his music isn't really my thing, he should continue to improve with more shows. He's not got any shortage of well-connected, famous friends to help him out, after all.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Marsh wore a corduroy jacket, jeans and a baseball cap. The rest of his band were similarly attired. The vibe fits the music, which is definitely all about no-frills, simple meat 'n' potatoes rock 'n' roll. In a room which had contained tons of seafood a few hours earlier, of course.