Words and pictures by Callum Linklater.
If this was just a warm-up, then Download better be ready. Don Broco hit Southampton’s Engine Rooms with the kind of energy you’d expect from a full-blown festival set. From the first riff to the final singalong, the band made it clear they’re firing on all cylinders. The room was packed, the crowd was loud, and Broco were in top form—this was more than a warm-up; it was a full-on party.
Before Broco hit the stage, Glasgow’s own Dead Pony did a perfect job getting the crowd fired up. With their punchy riffs and fierce vocals, it was a surprise to see a circle pit open so early in the night—but it worked. They proved they’re not just ones to watch—they’re ones to turn up early for. Their energy matched the buzz in the room perfectly, setting the tone for the chaos to come.
The setlist was a full-throttle ride through Broco’s greatest hits. From the punchy chaos of “Gumshield” and “Uber” to the cinematic swell of “One True Prince,” every song landed hard.
The band also took a moment to show their support for Palestine, receiving a strong reception from the crowd. It was a brief but heartfelt moment that grounded the night with something bigger than music.
Though there were no new songs played, Don Broco didn’t shy away from sharing what’s next. They revealed that they’ll be heading into the studio the day after Download to start recording their new album, aiming to release it before the end of the year. The crowd might have hoped for a sneak peek, but the promise alone was enough to stir the buzz.
The band closed with “Fingernails” and the riotous “T-Shirt Song,” sending the crowd into a final frenzy of flying tees and shout-alongs. No doubt about it—if this was just the warm-up, Download doesn’t stand a chance.
Setlist:
Everybody
Pretty
Technology
Come Out to LA
Gumshield
Uber
One True Prince
Manchester Super Reds No.1 Fan
ACTION
Bruce Willis
Endorphins
Superlove
You Wanna Know
Nerve
Encore:
Fingernails
T-Shirt Song
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