The beloved Manchester-based band Doves has returned to the spotlight with their latest single, ‘Cold Dreaming’, an exciting preview of their forthcoming album, ‘Constellations For the Lonely’. Set for release in February, this new album promises to continue the band’s tradition of crafting emotionally rich and sonically expansive music.
‘Cold Dreaming’ marks an exciting evolution for the band. The song features Andy and Jez Williams sharing vocals, creating a layered and dynamic sound. This is then textured with funky rhythms and groovy strings. The track feels like a dip into new territory for Doves but retains most of the essence of what makes them unique. The result is a song that feels very fresh and unmistakably theirs.
The release of the single is accompanied by a music video directed by Hingston Studio. The visuals offer a dreamlike narrative with bleak streets lit up with neon lights saying “Hope” and the title “Cold Dreaming”, mirroring its themes of introspection and renewal. The video draws viewers deeper into the world Doves are trying to portray with the new album.
Along with ‘Cold Dreaming’, Doves released another single from the album called ‘Renegade’ in November of last year. ‘Renegade’ presents a broader, moodier sound with brooding basslines and raw lyrics that reflect on existential struggles and impermanence, showcased in the lines, “So the rain falls down and nothing lasts forever.” This is a stark difference from what ‘Cold Dreaming ‘delivers. Together, the two songs delve into the emotional highs and lows of real-life experiences, offering different but poetic perspectives on how to live in the modern era. Doves’ last album, ‘The Universal Want’, was a critical success, jumping to the top of the UK Albums Chart. There is no doubt this new album will achieve the same level of success.
Formed in 1998, Doves comprises of vocalist and bassist Jimi Goodwin and twin brothers Jez and Andy Williams, who play guitar and drums. The trio first bonded over their shared love of music during their time at school and eventually became one of the UK’s most innovative alternative rock acts. Their signature style blends vibey atmospheric arrangements with heartfelt, raw lyrics, earning them a well-deserved and dedicated fanbase.
In support of ‘Constellations For the Lonely’, Doves are gearing up for a series of intimate live performances in the UK. The band is hitting major cities like Edinburgh, Birmingham, and two dates in their hometown, Manchester, among many others. It is their first full tour in 15 years, and unfortunately, usual frontman Jimi will not be joining them as he focuses on his mental health.
‘Cold Dreaming’ is a testament to Doves’ enduring relevance and creativity. As they prepare to release ‘Constellations For the Lonely’, the newest single offer fans a glimpse into what is to come. With their ability to weave intricate soundscapes and tackle difficult themes, Doves remind us why they remain one of the most influential acts in music today.
Ticket information can be found here.
