Young Rival @ NXNE 2009

Background/ Composition:
Hamilton four-piece Young Rival are in the midst of recording their latest album and Tthe band's seamless set was surprising considering they haven't played live in the past two months.

Grade: 95

Comment:
Young Rival stood out as one of the most memorable acts of the night with their danceable rock and unique stage presence that balanced against  a bit of punk rock attitude and the sweet simplicity of early Beatles. To complete the package, the band appeased the audience with a fresh and uniformed hipster image, including chic dress shoes and the drummer's hippie vest.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Young Rival's stage presence caused a cluster of fans to move intimately close to the stage. The fans wore ear to ear smiles with eyes closed, and it was almost as if they were basking in the hot rays of the sun in a paradise location. The band made full use of the stage, bumping guitars and bodies into one another as if physically attempting to share their sound with one another. Hipster T-shirts, chic dress shoes and tight Levis enhanced the audience's visual pleasure.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Young Rival served up a fresh twist on '60s inspired rock 'n' roll. Just when you think you detect a guitar riff from "You Really Got Me" by The Kinks, Young Rival transforms the riff into something more spectacular, with layers of guitar harmonies.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Side-swept haircuts added to both the band's stage presence and sexiness. If band members cracked a smile more often they would be on their way to perfection.