The Universal Want
by Doves
User Score
8.4

Universal acclaim- based on 12 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 12
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 12
  3. Negative: 1 out of 12
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  1. Ricko
    Dec 24, 2020
    7
    A decade on from their last album but "The Universal Want" is very much in line with the folk tinged psychedelic rock you come to expect from Doves. There is probably nothing here to rival their best work (although "Prisoners" is a standout track). Equally, this is an album that sits comfortably with their back catalog. They've still got what they had before.
  2. kadoka
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    Omg, I waited so long for this album. This band's return from their long hiatus is nothing short of epic. Every track is buzzing with a beautiful energy and cathartic spirit. Already my album of the year. Not a bad track.
  3. ryeguy7879
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    You couldn’t ask for a more relevant comeback album for these times. Each song has so much thought out detail, that ruling this one out on one listen is a huge mistake. This is what I needed for such a scrappy 2020.
  4. Fraserbain
    Sep 11, 2020
    10
    Absolutely brilliant listen. Been far too long a wait but such a welcome return.
  5. Thomas_Waine
    Sep 15, 2020
    10
    An absolute blinder of an album! Been waiting for this, it didn't disappoint, they never do!

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 18 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 17 out of 18
  2. Mixed: 1 out of 18
  3. Negative: 0 out of 18
  1. No Ripcord
    Sep 21, 2020
    70
    The Universal Want's strengths lie in a series of inspired moments rather than it coming together as a satisfying whole.
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  2. Paste Magazine
    Sep 14, 2020
    80
    The Universal Want is about learning to live with desires we can never fully satisfy, accepting the highs and lows of a cyclical existence. Doves transcend time on The Universal Want, a graceful rebirth that not only justifies their reformation, but also serves as a reminder of the ability they had all along.
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  3. Pitchfork
    Sep 14, 2020
    67
    The Universal Want troubleshoots wisely—keep the tempos at a brisk jog, dabble in Afrobeat, Motown, and cinematic soul rather than prog, and watch the clock. Whereas Kingdom of Rust felt like twice its hourlong runtime, Universal Want is Doves’ first filler-free album, floating by like a warm breeze.
    Read full review
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