‘Automatic’, the eagerly awaited sophomore full-length by Bedford swagger-merchants Don Broco, is their funk opus. Funky and soulful, the record merges bygone eras with the quartet’s distinctive modern rhythmic rock; rocketing the eighties headfirst into the present day. The sometimes off-putting bravado of earlier material thankfully sacrificed for a sun-kissed glaze.
Opening with the band’s four pre-release singles, ‘Superlove’ instantly sets the pace with its more elaborate take on the style honed on ‘Priorities’. As with the remainder of ‘Automatic’, it showcases the hearty production that says goodbye to the prior raw sounds. Less brash than what has come before, Don Broco have created a sound as smooth as their public personas.
The title track truly introduces frontman Rob Damiani’s sultry tones; another step away from the cocksure content of old by demonstrating Damiani’s more reserved delivery. Sitting alongside the Spanish guitar opening of ‘What You Do To Me’ or the snyth-pop inspired chorus of ‘Nerve’, ‘Automatic’ develops a distinctly salacious atmosphere.
Likely to divide listeners, ‘Automatic’ completes Don Broco’s transition from the ‘Thug Workout’ lads to potential pop superstars. Exemplified by a recent appearance on E4 almost-reality show Made In Chelsea, the unashamed pop affinity has been pushed to the forefront. That said, ‘Automatic’s guitar led sound should ensure their position within the alternative market. Where the likes of ‘Keep On Pushing’ and album closer ‘Further’ present the next step in their pop evolution, each track remains underpinned by Don Broco’s distinctive and winning formula.
With drummer Matt Donnelly providing a new angle with the backing vocals on ‘Further’, the closing track reiterates Don Broco’s growth. Building upon everything that has come before, ‘Automatic’ signifies a definitive style that falls comfortably between the rock and pop markets; one that provides true potential to evolve. Downplaying the bravado with a sleek and sexy soulfulness, ‘Automatic’ brings a whole new energy to Don Broco’s sound.
BEN TIPPLE