The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens

The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens - E.P. Review

The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens eponymous debut six track E.P. is an undeniably theatrical composition. Although there are some moments of charming musicianship (such as the piano driven melodies and introduction to the opening track 'Sibling Rivalry' or the ebullient percussion in the fourth track 'Penny Buns and Gin'), the overall tone and feel to the E.P. is just self indulgent and a little hollow.

Furthermore the length of the E.P. is somewhat awkward and clumsy. Six tracks is just too long for an E.P.. The band should have opted for a four track E.P. or waited to have enough material to create a complete album. This is particularly cumbersome as the majority of the tracks are very similar and the whole E.P. does drag a bit. The only track with any engaging hooks or energy is 'Penny Buns and Gin' and it does salvage the E.P. slightly, but the distorted and over-produced vocals makes the listening experience a bit uncomfortable. Ideally a cleaner vocal style and a more controlled or sophisticated use of dynamics would elevate the track from a relief to genuinely good song.

Overall, 'The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens' self entitled debut E.P. is very disappointing. It sounds less like Goth rock and more like a poorly composed C-Movie Horror soundtrack. Goth is at its best when it's energetic (think 'The Cure', 'Sisters of Mercy', 'Siouxsie and the Banshees' , 'Christian Death' or 'Star Industry') and less of the wailing warbles that TBSFD so heavily rely on.

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