THE FRONT ROW

“Nights Like These” lands as Dovegate’s first release of 2025 and introduces a more refined sound from the recently reshaped four-piece. With the band now operating as a tighter unit, there’s a noticeable shift in focus and cohesion. This track feels like a product of that clarity, sharper, more deliberate, and rooted in the type of songwriting that reflects both growth and self-awareness.

Recorded at Allo Sound Studio, the single leans heavily into a confident blend of upbeat indie-rock and melodic drive. Guitars take centre stage from the first bar, with Francis Shea’s lead work providing a constant sense of lift. The rhythm section, held down by Aaron Timmins and Matthew Poole, is solid without becoming overbearing, giving the track a steady pace and purpose.

Lyrically, the song draws on nostalgia without relying too heavily on sentimentality. It circles around the desire to stay present, to make the most of fleeting moments, and to stretch out the good times for just a little longer. There’s a sense of motion throughout, both in the lyrics and in the music, which gives the track its core strength. Nothing feels rushed or overly polished. The production is clean, but the emotion remains intact.

Jon Cregeen’s vocal delivery suits the tone well. There’s a warmth to his voice that softens the edges of the more driving instrumental parts. His performance holds attention without trying to dominate the track. That balance is one of the strongest aspects of the single, each element serves the whole, rather than fighting for space.

The band have spoken about how this release marks another step forward in finding their sound. That development feels honest. “Nights Like These” doesn’t sound like a departure or a sudden reinvention. It sounds like the next page in a slow-burning progression. The songwriting shows improved control, especially in how space is used across the arrangement. There’s room for the melody to breathe, which gives the choruses more weight without needing to overdo the hooks.

This release also comes in the build-up to Dovegate’s biggest headline show to date, taking place at EBGBS in Liverpool on 7 June. While the track may not break new ground in terms of genre or production, it does what it sets out to do with confidence. It’s a track built for live rooms, one that sits comfortably in the upper end of the local indie circuit and gives the band a solid platform for the year ahead.

For listeners who enjoy indie-rock with heart, pace, and a hint of youthful reflection, “Nights Like These” is well worth a spin. It’s not trying to chase trends or force a moment. It simply sounds like a band moving in the right direction.