Still Life Still @ NXNE 2009

Background/ Composition:
Still Life Still are a Toronto (East York) based quintet that engage in some self-admitted sprawling indie-rock Broken Social Scene worship that shines through in every one of their songs.

Grade: 79

Comment:
Still Life Still came into NXNE as one of the more hotly tipped local acts. It doesn't hurt to have a powerhouse like Arts & Crafts behind you, either. It's a ton of pressure that they handled pretty adeptly, which proves that they're worthy of some attention. They did play a noticeably shorter set than any other band on the bill, though.

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: E
Appearance: E
Use Of Stage: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The band endeared themselves to everyone in the crowd by performing with a healthy mix of excitement and conviction that was helped along with an impressive bit of rock and roll posturing. Still Life Still were gracious in their thanks and praise for the crowd, Arts & Crafts, pretty much everything and anything at The Courthouse on Thursday night.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Despite being one of the victims of a less than stellar mix that made for a sometimes muddled sound, Still Life Still didn't let up. Some fantastic guitar interplay coupled with drummer Aaron Romaniuk's impressive pounding on the kit makes for a show that's a hell of a lot of fun to watch. Their biggest challenge remains the vocal department, where they've got the raw and urgent down pat but sometimes at the expense of melody, which is what their particular brand of music sometimes demands.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The lads in Still Life Still certainly look the part of modern indie rock band, with skinny jeans, shagged out hair and a beard or two thrown in for good measure. The musical ability is there, too. Clean up the vocals and you've got a winner.