The Rosie Jones Band @ NXNE 2009

The Black Bull

Toronto, ON

on Jun 19 2009

David McPherson (CHARTattack)

06/20/2009 1:49pm

Background/ Composition:
This Hogtown five-piece were formed in 2006 and are a cross between The Pogues and Uncle Tupelo. Lead singer Chris MacDonald resembles Shane MacGowan in voice and spirit with his punk bravado. He was joined by fellow vocalist Megan Tilston, upright bassist Matt, Jason Yates on electric guitar and Jason Sound on the skins.

Grade: 87

Comment:
Where have these country-punkers been hiding? With no record out yet, these Hogtown howlers have the chops to make some serious noise. Unfortunate they played at the Black Bull, which is not the greatest music venue.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Frontman Chris MacDonald sported arm tattoos and a red t-shirt to match his red beard and made sure the Black Bull faithful had a shit-stompin' good time. Friends in front row screamed requests while MacDonald heckled them to shut the @#%* up.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
A tray full of shots was paraded up to the band mid-set. They happily accepted these tokens and raised their glasses to "bowlegged women and the death of Rosie Jones."

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Tilston's slinky black dress and cowboy boots showed she's a country fashionista. With tight musicianship, good harmony and storied songs, expect to see (and hear) more of this band in days to come. The highlight of the set was the closer, "Shoemaker," where MacDonald bounced around so much strumming his acoustic and singing that he stumbled backwards and knocked over the mike stand.