How did they set themselves up for success? Our auditionees are given a week to learn the song — have they really taken advantage of that time to know it inside and out? For guitarists / bassists / drummers: Did they take time to tune beforehand?

Overall command of their instrument and technical execution.

The ability to accurately keep time with the click and team.

How expressive their musicality is, indicating a connectedness to the music. A great musician will help you feel connected to the music.

The pleasantness and appropriateness of their timbre and sound. Bassists: Appropriate pickup / EQ settings?  |  Guitarists: Correct gain structure? Phrasings / voicings?  |  Keys: Patches? Phrasings / voicings?

Whether they rise and fall with the rest of the band according to the song's dynamics. Building tension / release with the band?  |  If improvising, are they supporting the melody or competing with it?