NXNE Critical Conclusions for Mikal Cronin (North By Northeast 2013 Concert Review)

The last act on the Bruise Cruise around Lake Ontario was Mikal Cronin.

Venue: Bruise Cruise (partly out on the lake, but we actually docked for the majority of the set)

First Impressions: For those uninitiated, sounds sort of like The Shins meet the Beach Boys meets early Nirvana. They had some gear troubles, but We Are Wolves came to the rescue.

Stage Presence: Nothing over the top. Just did their thing.

Random Observation: Since the schedule ran late, we docked during the second song. People on the pier either loved what happened or hated it, depending how much they could hear.

Crowd Reaction: Delightful applause. A select group started to mosh unfittingly but heck, international waters – do what you want. That’s why I sold banned sunscreen to prospective sunburnees.

The Last Word: 8.0 /10 – A few instrumental problems, but a good set otherwise. They got better as they went, and the crowd got into it more. Once again, another good fit for the boat and the kind of clientele you want on (hint: not pirates). However, another fucking 8 from me. I’m the worst reviewer.

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