“Priorites”, the lead single from Don
Broco’s first full length offering, certainly moulded the band’s reputation for
writing songs with unforgettable choruses and infectious hooks, perfectly creating
the anticipation for the eponymously titled album.
“Priorities”, the album
which is released tomorrow, will enter the public arena with high expectations
after the band’s previous E.P success. So what do the four Bedford
The
single “Priorities” opens the album; its huge chorus, intricate guitar work and
refreshingly honest lyrics immediately pull you in. And, luckily for
established and future Don Broco fans, the rest of the album follows suit. Instrumentally
the album is tight; guitar and drums are slick, showing a high level of
technicality. “Hold On” is charming from the off, leading the listener in one
direction before gazumping them with a grittier, punchy chorus. Don Broco’s
writing style is dynamic with fluctuating tempos and perfect rise and fall. The
experimental “Yeah Man”, for instance, is lighter, more upbeat and captures the
fun and catchy side of Don Broco, but still with a hint of the raw darkness
that has pushed them to the forefront of British rock. Rob Damiani’s deep
vocals confidently and effortlessly guide the album and, although fast paced,
experimental and loose at times and more reined in at others, it would be hard
to lock the boys down to one specific sound. And for now at least there is
absolutely no need to; whatever they seem to be doing works!
The
more you listen to “Priorities”, the more the intricacies reveal themselves.
“Whole Truth” becomes infectious, playing on the “boys’ club” vibe that Don
Broco assertively hold down. “Fancy Dress” is building and soaring, whilst
“Back In The Day” is more mature, multi-layered and anthemic. The
slower “You Got It Girl” is more melancholic and progressive in tone, but grabs
you by the throat no less than any other track on the album. The gutsy quartet
aren’t afraid to strike out; remaining true to their own style, blending melodic
harmonies with raw and gritty lyrics, typifying the British rock sounds that
some may see as having been lost over recent years. From beginning to end “Priorities”
is unrelenting and the pace does not decrease, even by the final song. Rounding
off with “Actors” it is just as charging, percussive and fluctuating in pace as
each of its predecessors. Don Broco has a hefty reputation for putting on an
incredible live show and has delivered with album number one. We are already
expecting lots more from this band; so watch this space.
8/10
