Doves

Doves Live at LiveHouse Dundee

Prepare for an unforgettable evening as the critically acclaimed Manchester trio, Doves, grace the stage at LiveHouse Dundee on Friday, 12th December 2025. This is more than just a gig; it’s a chance to witness a band renowned for their atmospheric soundscapes, poignant lyrics, and electrifying live performances in the intimate and vibrant setting of LiveHouse Dundee. Having captivated audiences for over two decades with their distinctive blend of indie rock and melodic introspection, Doves are set to deliver a show that will resonate long after the final note fades. This promises to be a night of musical catharsis, soaring anthems, and the kind of raw, emotive delivery that has solidified their status as one of Britain’s most cherished bands.

About Doves

Emerging from the vibrant Manchester music scene in the late 1990s, Doves quickly established themselves as a formidable force in British indie rock. Comprising Jez Williams (vocals, guitar), Jimi Goodwin (vocals, bass, guitar), and Andy Williams (drums), the band’s genesis can be traced back to the ashes of the cult indie band Sub Sub. Their debut album, Lost Souls (2000), was a revelation, a critically lauded collection of melancholic yet beautiful tracks that announced their arrival with significant impact. It garnered them a Mercury Prize nomination and set the tone for a career defined by an unwavering commitment to crafting emotionally resonant music.

Their sophomore effort, The Last Broadcast (2002), further cemented their reputation, spawning anthemic singles like “There Goes the Fear,” a track that became an unofficial anthem for a generation and remains a staple of festival stages and radio playlists. This album showcased a maturing sound, with Doves seamlessly blending expansive guitars, driving rhythms, and Goodwin’s distinctive, often soaring vocals. Subsequent releases, including Some Cities (2005) and Kingdom of Rust (2009), continued to explore themes of love, loss, and resilience, each album a testament to their evolving artistry and their ability to connect with listeners on a profound level.

After a hiatus that saw the band members pursue individual projects, Doves made a triumphant return in 2020 with The Universal Want. This comeback album was met with widespread critical acclaim, proving that their creative spark remained undimmed. Tracks like “Carrousel” and “Prisoners” demonstrated their continued mastery of atmospheric rock, earning them a dedicated fanbase eager to see them back on the road. Notable hits that fans will undoubtedly be hoping to hear include the stirring “Pounding,” the anthemic “Jetstream,” the introspective “Sea Song,” and the euphoric “Catch the Sun.” Doves are not just musicians; they are sonic architects, building intricate soundscapes that are both deeply personal and universally relatable.

Venue Information

LiveHouse Dundee is a premier live music venue renowned for its excellent acoustics, intimate atmosphere, and commitment to showcasing a diverse range of musical talent. Situated in the heart of Dundee, it offers a fantastic setting for experiencing live performances, fostering a close connection between artists and their audience. The venue boasts a state-of-the-art sound system, ensuring that every note is delivered with clarity and power, and a welcoming bar area where you can enjoy a pre-show drink. For complete venue details, see our venue guide.

What to Expect

Prepare for a setlist that masterfully blends Doves’ most beloved anthems with compelling tracks from their more recent work. While the exact setlist is always a delightful surprise, it’s guaranteed to be a journey through their rich discography. Expect the soaring, expansive soundscapes that have become their trademark to fill LiveHouse Dundee, with tracks like “There Goes the Fear” inevitably igniting singalongs and the raw emotion of “Pounding” sending shills down your spine. You can anticipate a performance that is both visually captivating and sonically immersive, with the band’s dynamic interplay and Goodwin’s emotive vocal delivery taking centre stage.

Doves are celebrated for their powerful and engaging live shows. Their performance style is characterized by a genuine connection with the audience, a meticulous attention to sonic detail, and an electrifying energy that builds throughout their set. The band possesses a remarkable ability to create moments of quiet introspection and explosive sonic catharsis, often within the same song. Expect a performance that is not just about playing the hits, but about reinterpreting them with a fresh intensity, ensuring that each song feels vital and alive. The show is likely to last approximately 90 to 120 minutes, offering a generous and deeply satisfying musical experience.

FAQs

1. How long has Doves been performing as a band? Doves formed in the late 1990s, meaning they have been actively performing and releasing music for over two decades, solidifying their status as a long-standing and influential act in the British music scene.

2. Will Doves play songs from their new album, The Universal Want? Yes, it is highly probable that Doves will perform a selection of tracks from their critically acclaimed 2020 album, The Universal Want, alongside their classic hits. They are known for weaving their latest material into their live sets.

3. Is it likely that Doves will play “There Goes the Fear”? “There Goes the Fear” is arguably one of Doves’ most iconic and beloved songs. It’s almost a certainty that this anthemic track will feature in their setlist, and you can expect it to be a highlight of the evening, likely prompting a mass singalong.

4. What is Doves’ typical live performance style? Doves are known for their atmospheric and emotionally charged live performances. They are adept at building sonic landscapes with their guitars and rhythms, and Jez Williams and Jimi Goodwin’s distinctive vocals are central to their powerful stage presence. Expect a performance that is both musically intricate and deeply engaging.

5. Are Doves known for interacting with the audience during their shows? While not known for extensive stage patter, Doves have a genuine warmth and connection with their audience. Their performance style is more about conveying emotion through their music, but you can expect a sense of shared experience and appreciation between the band and the crowd.

6. Can I expect Doves to play any encores? It is very common for bands of Doves’ stature to perform an encore. This often consists of a few of their most popular tracks, providing a final burst of energy and a memorable conclusion to the concert.