2003/04 – The Darkness

ABOUT THE DARKNESS

The Darkness is a British rock band formed in 2000, known for their flamboyant style and energetic performances. Hailing from Lowestoft, England, the band features lead vocalist Justin Hawkins, his brother Dan Hawkins on guitar, bassist Frankie Poullain, and drummer Rufus Taylor. They burst onto the music scene with their debut album, “Permission to Land,” in 2003, which quickly became a commercial success, propelled by hits like “I Believe in a Thing Called Love.” The album’s blend of glam rock, heavy metal, and catchy pop melodies garnered them a dedicated fanbase.

The Darkness is celebrated for their theatrical approach to music, often incorporating flamboyant costumes and over-the-top stage antics into their live shows. Their sound draws inspiration from classic rock acts such as Queen and Aerosmith, characterized by Justin Hawkins’ distinctive falsetto and dynamic guitar solos. After a brief hiatus in the mid-2000s, the band reunited and continued to release new music, including albums like “One Way Ticket to Hell… And Back” and “Pinewood Smile.” The Darkness remains a beloved fixture in the rock scene, celebrated for their infectious energy, catchy tunes, and unapologetic embrace of the flamboyant rock heritage. Their unique blend of humor and rock makes them stand out in contemporary music.