An Evening with Don Broco
An Evening with Don Broco
Photo by @iancoulsonmedia via Instagram
WARNING; this blog contains flashing lights and strong language
Hailing from Bedford, England, Don Broco consists of four members: lead vocalist Rob Damiani, guitarist Simon Delaney, bassist Tom Doyle, and drummer Matt Donnelly. Forming in 2008, they have released four studio albums, with their music often being described as a mix of alternative rock, pop, and funk. They are known for their energetic live performances, catchy hooks, and socially conscious lyrics, and over the years, the band has gained a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim, solidifying their place in the UK rock scene.
Their Amazing Things Tour 2023 brought 4 dates dotted around the UK; kicking it off in Cardiff, onto Leeds, Birmingham, and ending with a sold out show in London. Not only did I have the honour of seeing them in Leeds, I also was lucky enough watch soundcheck courtesy of ex DRUMSHOP employee Gav Gates, drum tech for Don Broco.
First things first
Gav on the drums and a view of an empty arena from the stage
My afternoon started with meeting Gav and being shown through the backstage of the First Direct Arena. There was no dilly-dallying and we got straight into it. Gav jumped straight on the drums for line check, where each instrument and microphone is played one at a time and adjust the levels and settings as needed to achieve the best sound quality. This is done to ensure that all the instruments and equipment are functioning correctly and are properly connected to the sound system.
Communication between Gav and sound engineers - Gav Checking the toms
Once everyone was happy, it was time for the band to take the stage for a little rehearsal. As this was the second night on the tour, there was a few things that they wanted to adjust from the first night.
Matt warming up
Superlove and Gumshield (spot Gav safety taping)
Matts Kit
Photo by @iancoulsonmedia via Instagram (what's that on the floor? )
Matt uses a SONOR SQ1 22", 14" and 16" in GT Black Finish. The shells consist of 100% European Birch which offers balanced low, mid and high tones as well as packing a hefty amount of volume and attack (as you've heard). 
Along with the SONOR Shell Pack, Matt also uses a range of Zildjian cymbals, alongside a Dunnett snare drum, SONOR stands, and a DW double bass pedal.
And you might be thinking you recognise the orange splat on the floor? That's right, that's our 'The Crown' Deluxe Rubber Backed Drum Mat!
A little message for you all from the man himself
The Concert Itself
Later that evening, my pals and I made our way back to the arena. We made it just before Papa Roachs set and got ourselves settled around the middle left of standing. I personally like to stand next to the FOH crew, purely because there's more room, I can see better from there, and it's actually a better place to stand acoustics wise. However, tonight I was in heels, I was with the girls, and I wanted to be in the action.
The setlist included mainly songs from their 2021 album, Amazing Things, as this was the Amazing Things tour, but also included songs from their other three albums; Technology, Automatic, and Priorities.
This was in fact my second concert post lockdown (shocking I know), and I could't have picked a better band to see. Don Brocos energy and stage presence is infectious and there wasn't a single person in the arena who wasn't dancing or singing along.
Nerve and Fingernails
Anaheim and One True Prince
Want to experience Don Broco for yourself? Catch their Reading 2023 set on BBC iPlayer here.
Gutted you missed them live? Don't worry! They've just announced a UK tour towards the end of 2023!
Don't know who Don Broco is? Check out some of their songs in the playlist below.
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