Sights And Sounds @ CMW 2010

Background/Composition:
Sights And Sounds are fronted by Comeback Kid's Andrew Neufeld, and take the aggression of their hardcore roots and translate that to a more melodic rock sound.

Grade: 85

Comment:
Sights And Sounds reminded the audience why they should be taken seriously. They reeled off songs from their impressive Monolith album with fury and emotion.

Neufeld amped up the vocals — they weren't as smooth as they are on disc, but they fit the band's live show that is filled with energy.

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: E
Appearance: G
Use Of Stage: G

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Steps:
Not only did they rock, but they looked like they rock. Guitarist Adrian Mottram spent most of this time bent over, legs split and hammering hard on his guitar. Neufeld joined when he wasn't singing through his long hair.

They really don't need much improvement here — they've all been in bands before and look comfortable playing live and visually show their passion.

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Steps:
As the set wore on, more people came to the front and were singing along. They did a great job of mixing up their show with more aggressive tracks like "Reconcile," with slower ones such as "The Clutter."

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

Strengths/Weaknesses/Next Steps:
After this set, Neufeld had to rush over to the El Mocambo as Comeback Kid were headlining the showcase there. Now, that's rock 'n' roll spirit. Hopefully more people will recognize how strong Sights And Sounds are — not just from their dedication to their craft, but from the actual quality of it as well.