There are some extremely underrated bands out there. There are also some bands who have developed their music over time to create a sound all their own, incomparable to any other. Kissimmee, FL’s Broadway happen to fall into both categories, especially after the release of their newest full-length record Gentlemen’s Brawl. A significant improvement on their debut release, this 11-track compilation is packed with contagious energy and an addictive sound that is bound to distinguish them in today’s music scene.
If A Day To Remember’s Homesick and Sleeping With Sirens’ Let’s Cheers To This got together and had a child that grew up listening to Blink-182, that child would be Gentlemen’s Brawl. Take the opening track, “Party At Sean’s House,” for instance — the song’s opening riff reflects classic ADTR while vocalist Misha Camacho’s voice resembles a combination of Kellin Quinn’s legendary range and Tom DeLonge’s punk edge to create a sound unlike any other. This song opens the record with a bang, grabbing your attention with its unmatched charisma and leaving you craving more.
The rest of the record delivers, resonating with an upbeat vibe that’s perfect for the summertime with its high energy and optimistic lyrics, but “Better Things” and “I Am Not A Rockstar” stand out in particular as two of the catchiest. “There’s No Crying in Baseball” is another standout, not only for the title’s reference to arguably one of the greatest movies ever, but also for the diversity the song adds to the album but its distinct pop flavour. “Medication” is a similarly noteworthy song, boasting some of the album’s catchiest hooks before smoothly leading into the closing title track. The incorporation of screams on this song is reminiscent of their traditional style while still holding on to their cleaner new sound, giving new meaning to saving the best for last.
Although Broadway have traditionally been considered a post hardcore band, their newest album takes their music in a more pop punk direction while still holding onto their original sound. Regardless of whatever genre it’s labeled, Gentlemen’s Brawl definitely disproves the myth that sophomore albums are destined for disaster — it’s a solid record from start to finish and a must-have for fans of any genre. This much-improved follow-up to their debut shows significantly more of what the band is capable of, cementing Broadway’s place as a band to be on the lookout for.
Rating: 4.5/5
