Ruby Coast @ NXNE 2009

Horseshoe Tavern

Toronto, ON

on Jun 20 2009

Scott Bryson (CHARTattack)

06/22/2009 1:02pm

Background/ Composition:
This pop-tastic fivesome are the pride of Aurora, Ont. They've recently finished high school, crafted an EP with Tokyo Police Club's Dave Monks and they're looking for a label.

Grade: 88

Comment:
The Ruby Coast's set was threatened from the very start when they discovered, after going live to air on the CBC, that their keyboard loops weren't working. Everyone but the drummer was huddled around the keys, staring at them, unsure what to do, when they suddenly started working, as if by magic. The show was saved.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The crowd was totally into these guys — fist-pumping, dancing and clapping. Singer Justice McLellan was musing near the end of the set that they were likely the sweatiest band ever. They obviously didn't catch DD/MM/YYY's performance. That's a whole other echelon of sweat to strive for.

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:
The Ruby Coast's specialty is changing gears. Most of their songs do a U-turn in tempo several times before they're finished. McLellan has no problem going from playful croon to a full-out scream. They're like Born Ruffians in a lot of ways.

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: E
Actual Ability: E

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
These guys are pretty young, but their spastic act is already airtight. Their primary challenge will be finding a way to stand out in a sea of similar bands that are emerging.