8/10

Usually when a band disappears for more than a decade, there is normally some form of infighting or dispute that has led to that decision. But in the case of Doves, the three-piece were just simply fatigued from the success they had spun over the previous 20+ years as a group. With their personal lives, families, and side-projects quickly becoming the focus of their lives, Doves was simply retired as far as they were concerned. But after a few reunion shows these past few years, the band were more keen than they thought about releasing new music, and have return with 'The Universal Want', their first full-length in eleven years.

But what seems so amazing about this return is just how easily they seem to have picked up where they left off. It is clear that they all had the same vision for this comeback record, and that was to focus on the more traditional Doves sound and give their long-waiting fans the reunion they have always wanted. Filled with the same soaring and euphoric energy, matched only by Jimi Goodwin's distinct and remarkable vocals, 'The Universal Want' sees them not only deliver more of the same magical spectacle, but something that could genuinely hold us for another decade if need be.

It would be fair to say that Doves rarely faltered during the peak of their fame, and 'The Universal Want' shows us that that spark is very difficult to extinguish. With its rich and textured production and atmosphere throughout, we hope that this is just the beginning of what Doves have in store for us in the years to come.