Jez Williams explains why his first solo record was a necessary creative outlet
Doves guitarist Jez Williams will release his debut solo album Life Of Me And You on February 26, 2027. He describes the project as a personal labour of love shaped by Lou Reed, 1960s pop, Balearic sounds and slow disco, with lead single Hollow Man drawing on information overload. Williams also discusses supporting Elbow at upcoming shows and the future of Doves.
Jez Williams is the Doves guitarist whose debut solo record, Life Of Me And You, is scheduled for 26 February 2027. It is his first release under his own name, separate from Doves, Sub Sub and Black Rivers, the 2012 project he began with twin brother Andy.
The album draws on Lou Reed, UFOs, 1960s pop, Balearic textures and slow disco, while Hollow Man addresses digital-era information overload. Williams also has first solo shows supporting Elbow in Manchester, celebrating Asleep In The Back, and has discussed Doves’ future.
The release could matter most to Doves fans and indie listeners curious about Williams outside the band. His support slots with Elbow may expose the solo material to new audiences and shape expectations around Doves’ next chapter. Because the project follows Jimi Goodwin’s touring withdrawal for mental health reasons, some fans may read the solo work as both a personal outlet and a signal of how the band’s public identity is evolving.