Doves - Live Review

Doves Soar at Sold-Out Oxford Show, Triumphantly Close "Constellations For The Lonely" Tour

Last night, the O2 Academy Oxford was electric as Doves capped off their Constellations for the Lonely tour with a sold-out performance that left fans buzzing. While the absence of lead singer Jimi Goodwin on this tour was noted, brothers Andy and Jez Williams stepped up masterfully, delivering a setlist that spanned the band's celebrated career and proved their enduring musical power. Determined to go out on a high, the band encouraged the already feverish crowd to give it their all - and Oxford delivered.

From the opening chords of Firesuite (from their debut album, Lost Souls [2000]), the band had the crowd in the palm of their hands. The seamless transition into Carousels (from The Universal Want [2020]) kept the momentum high. The band sounded fantastic, with each song retaining its signature depth and texture. Tracks like Words (The Last Broadcast [2002]), Cold Dreaming (Kingdom of Rust [2009]), and Here It Comes (Lost Souls [2000]) resonated beautifully in the live setting. The energy was palpable, with fans singing along to every word.

The setlist was a carefully curated journey through Doves' discography, showcasing their evolution while staying true to their core sound. Snowden (Some Cities [2005]) and Cycle of Hurt (The Universal Want [2020]) were particular highlights, demonstrating the band's ability to blend melancholic melodies with driving rhythms. The main set reached its peak with the one-two punch of Black and White Town (Some Cities [2005]) and Caught by the River (The Last Broadcast [2002]), sending the crowd into a frenzy.

The encore was nothing short of spectacular. The Cedar Room (Lost Souls [2000]) was a hauntingly beautiful rendition, followed by the anthemic Kingdom of Rust (Kingdom of Rust [2009]), which had the entire venue singing along. The night closed with a high-energy performance of There Goes the Fear (The Last Broadcast [2002]). Then came a knowing nod to their past - a cover of Space Face, a track from their pre-Doves incarnation as Sub Sub. For those in the know, it was a perfect full-circle moment, a wink to their Hacienda-era roots before stepping offstage one last time.

Despite the absence of Jimi Goodwin, Doves proved that their musical chemistry remains undeniable. Andy and Jez Williams led the charge with confidence and passion, delivering a performance that was both a celebration of their past and a testament to their enduring appeal. The Oxford crowd was on top form, creating an atmosphere that was nothing short of magical. Last night's show was a triumphant end to the Constellations for the Lonely tour and a reminder of why Doves remain one of the UK's most beloved bands.