Barzin @ NXNE 2009

Background/ Composition:
Over the course of three albums, Barzin Hosseini has solidified his position as one of Canada's most talented — but also most overlooked — songwriters. Barzin can fill a room with melancholy better than any musician in Toronto whether he's by himself or with a band.

Grade: 78

Comment:
C'est What is undoubtedly one of Toronto's most ill-equipped music venues. Getting near the stage is an awkward exercise if you're not a table of four, sitting down to dinner. Those who were unperturbed enough to stand between the tables now know Barzin had some sort of Asian stir-fry for dinner.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Barzin's style as a frontman mirrors the aesthetic of his music. In that respect, he's consistent, but it would be to his benefit if he worked a little harder to get the crowd involved. More than a few people were sawing logs by the end of his set.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Barzin's music is a perpetual lullaby. The songs are well constructed, but this is probably not the sort of entertainment a bar full of beer drinkers are looking for at 11 on a Friday night. Barzin did at least have a full band in tow to enlarge his presence. The accordion and vibraphone were smart additions.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
It's big, clunky and hard to move about, but everyone should think about getting a vibraphone for their home.