The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens are a darkwave/gothic-electro duo from Darlington consisting of David Saunders and Rob Irish. Their dark and cinematic soundscapes combined with unhinged, baritone vocals; conceptualise the life and legacy of Charles Dickens' wastrel brother. They take a tragic story filled with darkness and despair and use it as a metaphor for the modern day.

Their live performances are energetic, theatrical and filled with a semi-operatic intensity and rock ‘n’ roll edge that complements the varied waves of classical instrumentation, organic samples and heavy industrial sounds. They are an exciting experimental act reminiscent of Scott Walker, Nick Cave, The Dead Can Dance and early Pet Shop Boys/Depeche Mode.

The Dickensian duo are following up their recent single ‘Shrines’ (which received radio play on BBC Introducing Tees/Newcastle and Tom Robinson’s Mixtape on BBC Radio 6) with their self titled EP to be released on vinyl/digital download via Butterfly Effect Records on 5th November.

If, like myself, you have ever wondered who the most unique, provocative and tallest act you’ll ever come across in your lifetime are, your search will come to a stop at Darlington electro Goth duo The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens. - NARC Magazine.

'Utterly bizarre but compellingly brilliant' - EvenTheStars

'Filled with samples of noises found around Darlington, Dickensian-era instruments and well as modern tech, it makes for a moody, atmospheric, borderline Gothic record. Quite exceptional.' - In Bed With Maradona

'Wonderfully dramatic gothic torch songs' - Kingsley Chapman in Evening Gazette.

‘They are not just a band to be seen - but to be revered. If you've not yet experienced The Black Sheep Frederick Dickens, consider it time to go to church.' - NE Volume

'Their dark and gothic inspired lyrics coupled together with even darker sounds made for a very interesting and enjoyable performance.' - NEMM