The So So Glos @ NXNE 2009

Background/Composition:
This Brooklyn, N.Y. band are composed of brothers Alex (vocals/bass) and Ryan Levine (guitar), step-brother Zach Staggers (drums), and Matt Elkin (guitar) and were apparently voted best local band by somebody and have been praised in The New York Times.

Grade: 84

Comment:
The family ties were apparent in the tightness displayed by the group, who were scheduled to play two more shows later in the night. Their energetic, melodic punk-based music may not be totally original, but it's definitely enjoyable.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The Bovine stage is small, but The So So Glos made good use of it and the crowd appreciated their approach during their first Toronto appearance. They kept the banter to a minimum to maximize the amount of music they could play, and the songs were strong enough to validate that decision. They seemed genuinely happy after their set, but that may have also had something to do with knowing they were leaving with their hot-looking girlfriends who were dancing and drinking in front of the stage.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The So So Glos' spiky indie rock, with brief forays into reggae, somewhat warranted The Clash comparisons I've read. The vocals were solid, the riffs were catchy and the chorus of "Execution" and other songs hit the mark. This was a performance that made me want to hear more of a band who I had only peripheral knowledge of going in.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The Levine brothers are good-looking dudes, and Ryan wore a fedora to give him extra props. Toronto comic/singer Nick Flanagan introduced the band, and Alex cited his "awkward comedy" before hitting the stage and after the group members downed shots of Irish whiskey with their gal pals. The So So Glos look to be relatively young, and I wouldn't be surprised if we hear a lot more from them in the next year or two.