Cuff The Duke @ CMW 2009

Lee's Palace

Toronto, ON

on Mar 14 2009

Scott Bryson (CHARTattack)

03/16/2009 12:21pm

Background / Composition:
This Oshawa, Ont. foursome are Canada's torchbearers for twang-filled indie rock. They were the first band to have an album released on Hayden's Hardwood Records (aside from Hayden himself) and have repeatedly toured with the indie legend, playing as his backing band.

Grade: 89

Comment:
It's never easy to follow Elliott Brood, but these lads did an admirable job. Lee's was still packed for their 1 a.m. slot.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Singer/guitarist Wayne Petti spent much of the show balancing over the front of the stage; it was the only time all CMW I'd seen someone acting like a rock star. Most years, that's Kevin Drew's job.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Cuff The Duke hauled out a few tunes from their upcoming fourth full-length and they were all promising. "The Future Hangs," from their self-titled album, seemed to be the crowd's favourite. The set was closed with Sidelines Of The City's "If I Live Or If I Die." "We're going to form like Voltron," Petti shouted at the finish, "and destroy this thing!"

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Bassist Paul Lowman was one of the few musicians that wore a touque this year.