Doves speak about performing without Jimi Goodwin: “I’m proud of him for doing really well” with his sobriety

nme.com:

Doves have spoken about performing without frontman Jimi Goodwin, with drummer Andy Williams adding that he is “proud of him for doing really well” with his sobriety.The British indie rock trio have performed a series of shows sans Goodwin, who has taken a break from the band in order to focus on his recovery.“I’m not going out live this time,” Goodwin told NME in November. “The door’s not closed on that chapter; I just have to honour my sobriety and do what I need to in order to maintain that.

I’m not ready to perform yet.”Now, in a new interview by The Guardian, the band – consisting of brothers Andy and Jez Williams – have discussed their touring life without their frontman.

The siblings share vocal duties in his absence.“It felt like Jimi was there in spirit,” Andy told The Guardian about their shows last month. “He isn’t here at the moment, but is very much a part of us.”He added that the ability to tour again has become “quite healing”, and that their current arrangement has worked for all parties: “We’ve all really been through the wringer, but no one’s fallen out over this.

I’m really proud that we’re all still good friends.”Andy also noted that, based on the last time he saw Goodwin, he’s been “proud of him for doing really well” and “engaging with his sobriety.”On the decision, Goodwin previously revealed to NME that the brothers “got my complete blessing” to tour as Doves without him.“I’m absolutely thrilled for them,” he said. “They still want to be jobbing and gigging musicians.