You Say Party! We Say Die! @ NXNE 2009

Background/ Composition:
This Abbotsford, B.C. band are known for their punk-dance kicks and their modern tricks (that result in being banned from the USA) and are a concert-going favourite. Their new album comes out in September.

Grade: 80

Comment:
YSP!WSD! decided to make this evening into an advanced listening party for their upcoming album. The music was good, but the fans weren't quite sure what to do with it.

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: N
Pronunciation: G
Stage Presence: S
Stage Banter: N
Image: G
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: S

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Each band member decided to look at the ceiling, their instrument, or just close their eyes during their entire set, which completely cut them off from their audience. Maybe it was nerves because they were playing new music, but the members other than frontwoman Becky Ninkovic need to make more of an effort. Ninkovic, though, was wonderful.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The new music sounds beautiful, so it was a treat to be able to hear it. They're leaning in a more low-key Yeah Yeah Yeah's direction at this point, and while we don't want them ending up copy-cats, they seem to be on the right track. Ninkovic's vocals were beautiful and the lovelorn lyrics a timeless theme.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
They had to borrow a guitar from tour-mates Natalie Portman's Shaved Head at the last minute, but this group pulled it together. It would have been nice to see some more charisma and shaking of their indie rock haircuts, but that just allows for improvement for next time.