Woodpigeon @ NXNE 2009

Horseshoe Tavern

Toronto, ON

on Jun 20 2009

Scott Bryson (CHARTattack)

06/22/2009 12:43pm

Background/ Composition:
This soft-pop collective from Calgary just had their latest disc, Treasury Library Canada, long listed for the Polaris Music Prize. They're beloved at home and also recently caught fire overseas.

Grade: 78

Comment:
Things started slowly but finished with a bang. Woodpigeon faded out amidst an uncharacteristic wave of guitar feedback and looped vocals. It was one of the more memorable moments of the night.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
It's shocking that such a delicate voice can come out of such a burly man. All Woodpigeon's singers were spot on, vocally, and the whole band seemed happy to be there, though they'd just closed a lengthy European tour.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Woodpigeon really need to hire a drummer (or if they have one, he has to start showing up to gigs). The percussionless slow-down mix of "Jonathan Ashworth Rollercoaster" was pretty lame. They did at least have a few friends (including a drummer) on stand-by, and they joined them for the set's second half. It was then that things started to sound album-quality. The closing few songs saved the show.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
In a surprise announcement at the end of their set, Woodpigeon were presented with the Galaxie Rising Star Award and handed a cheque of what is likely significant value.