Doves latest release, Kingdom of Rust, was almost four years in the making, and it shows in the quality of the recording and the complexity of the arrangements. While they have often been overshadowed by Coldplay and Radiohead, their unique sound and sophistication has created a modest cult-like following that just might expand into full-fledged fandom this time around.
The CD contains eleven tracks that rank among the best the
band has done – starting with Jetstream,
a natural opener for their supporting tour.
It builds to a climax of sound and layers that sonically reinforces life
waiting in an airport and experiencing the unfulfilled promise of flight and
mysterious destination as delays mount. The
title track starts as an homage to Cowboy Westerns with the twanging gee-tar,
and then quickly devolves into a song of angst over broken love. The third and eighth tracks would be at home
on their first CD, but that’s a good thing.
They are vintage Doves – big sprawling hooks with pounding bass and drumbeats.
All in all this CD was worth the wait and has an invigorating quality about it. But, the other shoe must drop. I recently saw them live at The Vic (one of my favorite smaller venues) with Mike Nikolich (see his review where he was using the Etymotic noise reduction earbuds). It became clear that the label was doing a full court press for expanded awareness – every new song had a video supporting it, while the older ones were relegated to typical light sweeps and color washes. But more importantly, it became clear that the reason it took so long for this release was that the lads just aren’t that talented. The first several songs ran off the clock in tempo, and it wasn’t intentional. The beautiful, loving arrangements, including many clever guitar tunings and effects, all mashed together into a muddy roar and much of the sound was obviously coming from pre-recorded loops. Bear in mind that this was the fourth time I have seen Doves perform, so I have a reference point for these comments.
Still, I would rank this as their second best concert performance, but I was definitely underwhelmed. And I’ve learned that while I will continue to keep this CD in heavy rotation, I will not see them live again. They are a much better studio band, and should stay there. If it takes four years for their next release but that one shows continued maturation of their sound, then count me in. Just don’t plan to see me at the concert again.
--Reviewed by Dennis Collins
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