NinjaTaru72, it could be that the tank wasn't completely sure of the best tactics to use either, hence "Yeah, a while ago".

Also, consider that some people prefer to learn the tactics on the fly as you did, and would consider too much assistance before the first try to be a spoiler for the encounter. As you actually didn't wipe even once I'm not surprised that no advice was being given out as it clearly wasn't needed. If your tank was holding back advice, it could just be that he had enough faith in your ability to not hold your hand, but may have offered suggestions after a wipe.

I wouldn't consider any of the players you've descried as bad.