The Russian Futurists @ CMW 2010

Background/Composition:
The Russian Futurists is the recording pseudonym for Toronto's Matthew Hart, though the band expands to four members for live performance. They have three-full lengths to their credit and a fourth — The Weight's On The Wheels — on the way. Hart describes their sound as "huge, ambitious productions on very limiting and awful equipment."

Grade: 79

Comment:
These four really need to take advantage of their name and spruce up their live show. I was hoping for strobe lights, a fog machine and Max Headroom-style sunglasses. I got none.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Hart was definitely the chattiest performer of the night and had a penchant for spitting out interestingly cryptic exclamations like, "We want to fight with music!" He's a decent vocalist and showman, but it's always a little disappointing to see singers who don't play an instrument. At least he picked up a tambourine for a few songs.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
The Russian Futurists hauled out some new material, but it didn't seem as engaging as their established songs. "100 Shopping Days Til Christmas" was a weird funk piece that Hart called "urban music." Folk musician Ruth Minnikin showed up to add guest vocals to one song — it was definitely one of the night's highlights.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Step:
Bassist Sofia Silva: sexy. Hart: a bit of an Andy Richter.