Gravity Wave @ NXNE 2009

Background/ Composition:
The normally concept-heavy performance artists stuck to the basics for his long-delayed Wrongbar set.

Grade: 80

Comment:
Props to Gravity Wave for bringing their all their energy a full hour after they were scheduled to perform. The audience was sparse and tired, but GW managed to pull the stragglers to the stage and make them move. Mastermind Ken Farrell is known for high concept performances that can range from astounding to agonizing. For NXNE he and his DJ duo stuck to the music and it worked out fine.

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: E
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
I've always been a fan of Farrell's vocal style. It's hard to describe, but I'll say it's like a desperate, melodic sing-speak. Desperate is the key word there. He always sounds like he's putting his last ounce of strength into his lyrics.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Gravity Wave's ever-evolving line-up seems to have hit on something good with a pair of DJs backing up Farrell with beat samples, record scratches, and even some hype man shouting. It's such a natural evolution from the early days of pre-recorded iPod beeps, it's a wonder he didn't think of it sooner.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Farrell's haircut demands a mention here. It takes the art school asymmetrical hair cliche to the extreme. The right side of his head and face is shaved down to a buzz while the rest is left to grow, beard included. It sounds horrifying, but the actual result looks pretty cool.