Broncos – Lover (2025)
A band formed over time as various projects dissolved or didn’t even properly start, drummer Michael and guitarist Cameron technically began Broncos; however, it was only when vocalist and bassist Shane arrived that “…Broncos finally took its shape.” Now, one of the fastest-rising bands in Belfast, the trio brings a rush of post-hardcore music to listeners. Today, we take a deep breath and jump into their new single, ‘Lover’.
Following the sophomore single, ‘Lights Out’, Broncos take another stomp into 2025 with ‘Lover’. Produced by Shane McMullan, with mastering by long-time collaborator Dan Coutant, ‘Lover’ can lie comfortably in any punk playlist, but slices of melodic alternative rock burn bright in the softer, more mellifluous choruses. For me, it is this interplay of Michael and Cameron’s screams with Shane’s rich, dulcet vocals that really enhances the oscillation between dark and light, soft and hard, gentle and brash, gut-wrenching and soul-soothing.
The group retain a DIY ethos when it comes to production – the track created in their practice space – and you can hear the originality, individuality, and raw authenticity of their music. From the crashing drums to blistering bass and scorching guitar, ‘Lover’ brims with rough grit, but is caught in a cage of sophistication and elegance. Intricately entwined, there is simultaneously an elegant movement from madness to calm and a lingering of Shane’s easier-on-the-ears tone within the frenzied chaos – an exquisite expression of the complex theme and lyricism.
“’Lover’ addresses the push-pull duality in a relationship, the ambiguity that can surround a situationship juxtaposed against the desire for something deeper and more meaning, while protecting yourself in the face of potential/inevitable heartbreak.” – Broncos on ‘Lover’
So, overall, what is my opinion of Broncos and ‘Lover’? Broncos is certainly a band to keep your eye on. With their reckless rambunctiousness, it’s a case of being shoved in the mosh-pit, tossed about, and then waking up the next morning to a pounding headache and several bruises, although you can’t quite remember where you received the blows; it’s all worth it. ‘Lover’ is a shift from explosiveness to a more complex tone, noting that Broncos has several sides to the sonic personality. I am eager to hear more from this highly recommended group.
Find out more about Broncos on their Facebook, X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, YouTube, SoundCloud and Spotify.
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