Shredding Riffs For Societal Change: How DON BROCO Have Been Making Statements

By Seb Gorlov

British band DON BROCO are far from your average rock group. Whilst they produce the traditional hard-hitting sounds and high-octane energy associated with metal rock, the quartet have a discography of songs that are thought-provoking and inspirational in equal measure.

The band came together in Bedford, England in 2008. Since their formation they have released four studio albums. Two of these albums have been certified as silver by the British Phonographic Institute (awarded when an album receives 60,000 sales) showcasing their credibility.

Led by talisman Rob Damiani, they are not just producing music to captivate audiences – even if they have received plaudits for their work (with their 2021 album Amazing Things topping the Official UK Album charts for the first time upon its release).

From the climate crisis to addiction with our electronic devices, the ever-changing world we live in is becoming inundated with societal issues. Action is being done, but DON BROCO have reiterated the importance of fixing these challenges.

Lyrics from their tunes feel like a call to arms, with the band trying to inspire positive change. One prime example is in the song “Gumshield”, which is featured on Amazing Things. Damiani explained the idea behind the track and his personal fear which acted as inspiration. Damiani says it is “This fear of being torn apart by anyone putting a foot wrong out, or by engaging in any sort of conversation and making a mistake.” (Damiani, Revolver Magazine)

Social media unfortunately contains more harmful, derogatory comments nowadays, met with more tension and anger. Even if someone accidentally writes something without understanding the implications, it can cause a chain reaction of hatred.

“Then you pick yourself a new crusade to fly away the days” (“Gumshield”, Amazing Things, DON BROCO).

“Technology” is the opening song from the album of the same name, released in 2018. It highlights the trouble that comes with the way some people become dependent on posting their life online regularly for interaction and views.

“I had a friend now he works out/ I had a friend, can’t put his camera down” (“Technology”, Technology, DON BROCO).

“Manchester Super Reds No.1 Fan” (another popular song from Amazing Things) sheds light on the behavioural issues that can arise within fanbases, with the lyrics taking aim at people who say hurtful things but show little sign of remorse or a desire to change their behaviour.

“I like to dish the dirt then I’ll touch a nerve/ But still I sing the words to every verse” (“Manchester Super Reds No.1 Fan”, Amazing Things, DON BROCO).

In an interview about the creation of the Amazing Things album, Damiani explained this concept further, saying “The song was seeing how a lot of other people, bands and celebrities are treated.” (Damiani, Kerrang)

These are the kinds of issues that are not fixable overnight, but Damiani and his crew have laid down a marker in tackling them through their artistic medium. Using their creativity as a platform to address issues of such high importance is really refreshing to see.

In addition to this, the group has remained consistent from a musical perspective, having an ability to produce catchy and well-crafted tracks which has contributed to their rising success over the years, culminating in developing a reputation as one of the most important and influential bands in the rock music industry.

With their latest album Nightmare Tripping, they are choosing an avant-garde approach with a slightly heavier sound, akin to bands like Bring Me The Horizon. This can be heard on two of the album’s cuts, “Disappear” and “Cellophane”, which are currently out as singles. The album is set for release very soon (March 27, 2026). It is a sign that whilst DON BROCO are reaching new heights, they do not look like they are slowing down any time soon.