Dustin Bentall @ NXNE 2009

Dakota Tavern

Toronto, ON

on Jun 20 2009

David McPherson (CHARTattack)

06/22/2009 2:35pm

Background/ Composition:
Bentall comes from some fine musical pedigree (father is Canadian rocker Barney Bentall) and uses this DNA to his advantage. But his musical genes have more in common with Gram Parsons and The Flying Burrito Brothers than his dad's penchant for more middle-of-the-road rock. Bentall was backed by a kick-ass band that included Adam Dobres, drummer Pat Steward and bass player Del Cowsill, son of the late Billy Cowsill.

Grade: 89

Comment:
His set definitely raised the temperature at the Dakota. Bentall is starting to forge his own path down some gravelly country-rock roads. Think White Stripes meets Johnny Cash, combined with Crazy-Horse like guitar playing.

Achievement of Rock 'n' Roll Expectations

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
This cosmic cowboy showed he's on the verge. He played many tracks from 2005's Streets With No Lights, but also previewed many fine cuts from his new record due in September.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
This high octane performance finally got the music lovers in the Dakota to approach the stage and groove to the music. This was one of the high points of the festival for sure, with soaring three-part harmony and a fiddling frenzy.

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:
One of many highs was Bentall's homage to fellow roots artist, Toronto-based Corin Raymond (who was in the house). Bentall played Raymond's "3,000 miles." Raymond, who sported a Stetson askew, was all smiles while he listened to his friend perform his tune while sipping a pint.