Bowery Boy Blue @ NXNE 2009

Background/ Composition:
This Americana outfit from the Big Apple are led by the soft, but arresting voice of principal songwriter Zeb Gould, and released their Stalk That Myth debut last year. Multi-instrumentalist Sam Crawford, bassist Michael Trepagnier and drummer Christian Rutledge round out this tight foursome of merrymakers.

Grade: 88

Comment:
Think Crazy Horse circa 1974 meets Will Oldham with a sprinkling of the Allman Brothers. These New Yorkers provide a sonic experience with high, lonesome two-part harmony and duel battling axes fronting the band that makes one think of the interplay between Stills and Young back in the Buffalo Springfield days.

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: E
Stage Banter: G
Image: E
Appearance: G
Use of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
It was a high octane set — the drummer banged skins as if it was his last night on earth, while his bandmates let the music take them to new sonic heights. When they really got into the groove, it was a passionate performance indeed.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
With tight playing, great guitar solos and literate and lyrical songwriting, these dudes are on the road to the big time. They were an opening night highlight for sure.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The high and lonesome two-part harmony, along with dueling cool red and black guitars, including a vintage Gretsch and a unique lap slide guitar made this short, sweaty set one to remember.