Live Review

Don Broco – Joiners, Southampton

• 21st Mar 2011

Before the Bedford party mob light up Southampton’s famous dimly lit and confined venue, The Joiners, with a spark of brilliance, we have to witness a group of students who collectively form Forever Can Wait find their feet in the musical word.

To be fair, any pop-punk band that has a female vocalist can’t escape any references to Paramore, but it seemed as though this quintet hadn’t even tried to bring a slice of originality to the table.

Despite sounding similar to other bands, their music was lively, upbeat and did draw in a few new fans. Though their songs would have gone down a lot better if delivered in a more charismatic and confident manner. Very little engagement with the audience can be achieved if you’re going to sing to the floor or even face the back of the stage when singing…

The last song was dedicated to Nicole, though it seemed even she got bored and left! Negatives aside, the final song was their strongest. It was slower compared to their previous tracks, but suited Tasha’s voice so much better, as she seemed to be a little worn out trying to sing the upbeat material; the lyrics were just far too wordy. If they’re set featured more songs like that, they would have faired much greater.

But Forever Can Wait were soon forgotten by the time Don Broco took to the stage, commanding it as if they owned the place. It’s hard to accept the energetic foursome only emerged in 2008; you’d think they’d been doing it for years when you watch their performances. Don Broco are definitely a band that ensure you get a great night of thrilling tunes and the opportunity to lose control and have fun.

They open with the chaotic old favourite “Thug Workout. ” A mosh pit formed within seconds by a group of five drunken lads, one of which was finding it difficult to even stand, so found himself falling all over the place, much to everyone’s amusement. It wasn’t long before singer Rob Damiani joined in with the moshing, and encouraged a wall of death.

Though the poor 14-year-old girls at the front – who seemed more worried about their hair than enjoying the gig – got a right eye full as guitarist Simon Delaney sported a large tear in his jeans. The touring lifestyle obviously took its toll on Delaney’s clothing, but I think we were all grateful he was wearing underwear!

Their set list covered a range of different styles they’re able to pull off, displaying such versatility. From the dance mix “Do What We Do” to the more chilled “I’m Good,” the atmosphere was buzzing.

Take every opportunity you can get to see these lively lads perform, as you certainly won’t be left disappointed!