Nothing But Thieves – Broken Machine (RCA Records, 2017)
Modern society, mental health and the ever-growing navigation of the political landscape blend together in this outstanding second album from Nothing But Thieves. As a huge fan of this band, my expectations were high for their second record. Their newest album, Broken Machine, exceeded my expectations. Having already heard an eclectic mix of early-released tracks, from the head-pounding “Amsterdam” to the sorrow-filled vocals of “Sorry,” I was sold. The record is filled with political contempt and thoughts preoccupying restless minds. The vocals are raw, and with every performance, the band wears their hearts on their sleeve. The album is filled with a career-defining soul. Instant classic “Particles,” explores the many wonders of Conor Mason’s voice, only to be sent into a whirlwind with the closing tracks “Get Better” and “Number 13.” The album flows effortlessly and only edges Nothing But Thieves closer to world domination with their passionate guitar-based rock.
Trial Track: “Particles”
9.5/10