Sydney’s Manning Bar was packed to the rafters last night for Don Broco’s headline show! The anticipation in the air was electric, and the crowd was ready to throw down and let loose. Supported by Melbourne’s Future Static and local rockers Redhook, it was shaping up to be one hell of a night—and it definitely didn’t disappoint!
Future Static
Future Static erupted onto the stage with their high-energy set, and the crowd was bouncing early, thanks to their catchy hooks and heavy riffs. Amariah Cook was a powerhouse on stage, blending clean vocals and screams, and their sound and energy felt like a modern melodic metalcore twist on a popular 2000s emo band.
Redhook
The energy never wavered, with Redhook bringing their A-game through a playful yet intense set. From drum solos and saxophones to bold wardrobe changes and vocal cameos, it had it all!
Each cameo raised the energy to a new level—Don Broco’s Matt Donnelly joining Emmy Mack for “Dr Frankenstein,” and Amariah making one last appearance for “Hexxx.” The onstage chemistry was next level!
Finishing on a high, Mack jumped down into the mosh before beach balls were thrown into the crowd and “Bad Decisions” closed out their epic set.
Don Broco
The lights dimmed one final time, and as the members of Don Broco walked out onto the stage one by one, the crowd cheered and screamed before frontman Rob Damiani made his entrance. Right away, their stage presence was top tier as they kicked off with their hit “Everybody,” with everyone in the crowd singing and chanting along.
“Pretty” came next, and with it, the most chill wall of death I’ve ever witnessed—and everyone loved it!
For only the second time they’ve played this live, “Cellophane” (which is a dead-set banger) was an absolute crowd favourite. Rob himself said it was the best reception the song’s had so far, and it’ll be a tough one to top — Melbourne, you’re up!
The setlist was packed with hits and anthems, including “Come Out to LA,” “Gumshield,” and “You Wanna Know.”
There was a slight technical hiccup at one point, but Rob and the boys took the moment to chat with the crowd and interact a bit more—even finding out there were a couple of Bedford locals in the mosh! Once everything was sorted, the energy skyrocketed again.
At one point, the room was divided into two sides for a “Yippee-ki-yay, motherf@#ker off”—if you know, you know! If not, even more reason to buy a ticket and find out!
As the night drew to a close, the crowd stayed hyped, chanting “Tits out for the boys”—a first for me as an encore chant, but it had everyone in high spirits, even Rob cracking a laugh.
The boys from Bedford came back for a double encore, and as they played their final song, the crowd still gave everything they had. A sea of shirts spun wildly in the air as “T-Shirt Song” rounded out a brilliant night at Manning Bar.
Final Thoughts
Overall, last night was a proper rock night—full of huge energy, good vibes, and a crowd that wasn’t holding back. Don Broco proved they’re one of the best live bands around, delivering a set that kept everyone buzzing from start to finish.
It’s clear how much they love their fans and thrive on that connection. If you missed out, you’ll want to catch them next time they’re in town—trust me, it’s a night you won’t forget.
And the good news? It might not be long, with Rob hinting at more Aussie tours and a new album just around the corner!
Cheers to the band, the support acts, and everyone who made last night one to remember!
Photos by Ash Tucky
