Gurf Morlix @ NXNE 2009

Dakota Tavern

Toronto, ON

on Jun 20 2009

David McPherson (CHARTattack)

06/22/2009 2:28pm

Background/ Composition:
This veteran Texan is known more as an ace producer of Americana and roots musicians (including Canada's own Romi Mayes), but he recently decided it was high time to hit the stage himself.

Grade: 87

Comment:
Morlix had the shoulder-to-shoulder Dakota crowd mesmerized and hanging on his every word. Morlix sang songs of murder and revenge with a booming, bluesy voice straight from the Delta and some finger-lickin' pickin' and note-bending on his Arlo Lutherie guitar.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Morlix had a stomp box on stage and used his weathered cowboy boots to keep the beat. He added another element to his sound by stompin' this piece of plywood hooked to a mike.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Morlix motored through songs from his disc Last Exit To Happyland, which came out in February. One of the highs was "Walkin' To New Orleans," which is about a guy trying to journey through a hurricane.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Morlix sported a yellow guitar strap that read, "Police line do not cross." Ending with the Blind Boys Of Alabama tune: "This May Be The Last Time" was a haunting way to end.