Spirits @ CMW 2009

Background / Composition:
Spirits were a last minute addition slotted to replace Hot Tub. I wasn't familiar with the Ontario indie dance rock trio, but man was I blown away! They have a calibre of talent that transcends various genres with elegance. For a trio, they produce big sound — think stadium.

Grade: 88

Comment:
Normally when watching a new band, I like to feel out the first few songs, but Spirits pulled me in right away. They had a huge presence that powerfully carried through the entire room. I was surprised I didn't know them before because this could have been their show. I almost forgot I was there to see The Ting Tings — that's how good this set was.

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: G
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Sandwiched between two large drumkits, Spirits made excellent use of the fraction of the stage allotted for them. Frontman Brad Germain really knew how to work the stage and the crowd, benefiting from the freedom of having just a mic. He understands that his voice is also an instrument, and he used it to its full potential. I wish I had picked up a CD.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Though Spirits don't have a human bassist, their MacBook busted out some pretty industrial lines that sounded rather genuine. Guitarist/vocalist Ian Smith had a voice that really complimented Germain's. It would have been nice if he was a little more charismatic though. Their songs were solid and catchy, with easy-to-grasp choruses that were a joy to sing along to. Songs like "Forbidden Flame" boast echoes of a young U2 and have the power behind them to back that claim. They were just as bad-ass as Germain's whiskey swagger.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
One of the highlights was when Germain said, "We have one last thing we want you to do with us... dance with us!" He put it out there and the crowd responded so well that he even jumped off the stage to sing and dance amongst the audience. It was an act of true showmanship. These guys play the kind of songs that represent "good" rock radio — the kind you crank on your car stereo when they come on. Keep them on your radar because their live shows are just as awesome and as solid as their tracks.