Dan Mangan @ NXNE 2009

C'est What

Toronto, ON

on Jun 19 2009

Scott Bryson (CHARTattack)

06/20/2009 1:21pm

Background/ Composition:
Vancouver's Dan Mangan has one full-length under his belt and another on the way. He's only 25, but his unique brand of folk pop has already scored him opening gigs for Patrick Watson, The Acorn, Elliott Brood, Hey Rosetta! and Mother Mother.

Grade: 90

Comment:
I didn't know much about Mangan going into this and was pleasantly surprised by the results. He had a captivating stage presence, whether he had his full band or just an upright bass backing him.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Although Mangan isn't an especially tall man, his demeanor is reminiscent of The Friendly Giant. At the end of the set, he and his band members waded into the crowd and instigated a singalong to "Robots." Mangan, perched on top of a chair, was noticeably shocked by the number of people that knew the words and joined in.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Mangan has one of the most distinctive voices in Canadian music and the songwriting skills to match. He got downright enthralling when he had the full band playing.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
When Mangan had the whole bar singing "Robots need love too... they want to be loved by you," I almost ran out to give the ATM machine a hug.