Broken Machine
Nothing but Thieves · 2017
43 min · 11 tracks · alternative rock
A vibrant blend of alternative rock and experimental sounds, layered with introspective lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Sorry — This track encapsulates the band's ability to blend catchy melodies with poignant lyrics about regret and introspection, showcasing their emotional range.
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Broken Machine — The title track serves as a powerful anthem addressing themes of disillusionment and resilience, underscored by an anthemic chorus that invites listener participation.
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Amsterdam — With its infectious energy and vivid imagery, this song captures a sense of youthful escapism while exploring deeper emotional undercurrents.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
The album showcases strong songwriting and production but lacks the depth for lasting impact.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature a steady build in intensity, culminating in the title track which introduces a more experimental sound with layered instrumentation.
- Several songs incorporate abrupt tempo changes, particularly 'Live Like Animals' which shifts from a slow intro to a fast-paced chorus.
- The album closes with 'Afterlife', which features a gradual fade-out, leaving an unresolved feeling that contrasts with the earlier tracks.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- steady, consistent energy levels
- dynamic emotional journeys
- long, immersive listening sessions
- contemplative reflective moments
Where this album fits
- Career context
- Broken Machine is Nothing but Thieves' sophomore album, following their self-titled debut from 2015. By this time, the band had gained significant traction in the UK music scene, establishing themselves as a key player in the alternative rock genre and ready to explore new thematic depths.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Royal Blood· Biffy Clyro· Nothing More
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Get Better
The singer shifts from self-blame to empowerment, asserting a desire for growth and healing.
This transition from vulnerability to strength marks a crucial narrative pivot, encouraging listeners to embrace personal evolution.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 I Was Just a Kid 4:30
- 2 Amsterdam 4:32
- 3 Sorry 3:34
- 4 Broken Machine 3:54
- 5 Live Like Animals 4:10
- 6 Soda 3:56
- 7 I'm Not Made by Design 3:52
- 8 Particles 3:55
- 9 Get Better 3:19
- 10 Hell, Yeah 3:06
- 11 Afterlife 4:43
What to play next
Moral Panic
2020
Continues the blend of alternative rock with engaging themes and energy.
Nothing But Thieves
2015
Sets the stage for the evolution seen in Broken Machine with its foundational sound.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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