I had previously panned Peterborough youngsters Dutch Oven because they didn’t really stand out from the pack. I quote:
“They’re definitely that proverbial rough diamond and there is enough here to warrant a closer inspection if they decide to go back to the practice room and find their own sound. Average at the moment but there are moments that suggest that underneath some of the mediocrity lies a decent band just waiting to burst out.â€
Somewhere along the line the band have done just that and the result, ‘Expired By Convention’, is the proof of the pudding. Gone is the polite melodic punk with the rough edges and in is a band that has matured hugely. There’s a darkness similar to that of the Alkaline Trio and a sweetness of Copeland that juxtaposes itself in a lovely way. Pianos sprinkle and guitars tinkle (or should that be the other way round?), while a lush vocal is massively improved on the old one.
For example, the art (maybe inspired by Copeland?) looks very nice and professional, and the production really shines for a demo. ‘Every Scar Tells A Story’ may be clichéd in name, but works a treat on disc. A piano has been added and is never over-used – if anything they could use it more – and only when the screams come in during the songs does anything ever sound forced or unnecessary. ‘Slap In The Face’ lets the side down slightly, going down the acoustic route without really pulling it off, while the closing ‘Give It To Me Straight’ is also a bit predictable.
But the first three songs show a maturity that will take the band to the next level. Bands must grow, both as songwriters and as people, and Dutch Oven show that to an extent on this CD. I’d give this 3 and a quarter if I could as I don’t quite think it’s worth 3 and a half, but it’s damn close. Dutch Oven are close to finding their sound and 6 months down the line they could well be an interesting band indeed.
dutchovenband@hotmail.com
Paul