The music of The Darkness is characterized by twin-guitar harmonies, driving riffs, and Justin Hawkins' signature use of falsetto. Lyrically, the band balances genuine emotion with a heavy dose of British wit, self-deprecation, and camp humor. Songs often tackle classic rock tropes—love, sex, and rock and roll—alongside absurd or mundane topics, such as the local physical education department in "Growing on Me."
Their comeback album, Hot Cakes , was released in 2012 to positive reviews, proving that their signature sound still had an audience. Though drummer Ed Graham left the band again in 2014 due to health issues, he was eventually replaced in 2015 by Rufus Tiger Taylor—the son of legendary Queen drummer Roger Taylor. Taylor's powerful drumming injected fresh energy into the band. The Darkness
In 2011, The Darkness announced their reunion with the original four-piece lineup. They made a triumphant return to the stage at the Download Festival and served as the opening act for Lady Gaga's "Born This Way Ball" European tour. The music of The Darkness is characterized by
Their debut album, Permission to Land , was released in 2003 to massive critical and commercial success. Driven by the infectious, chart-topping single "I Believe in a Thing Called Love," the album went quadruple platinum in the UK. Justin Hawkins became an instant icon with his skin-tight catsuits, operatic falsetto, and high-energy guitar solos. Success, Struggles, and Hiatus Though drummer Ed Graham left the band again
The Darkness has remained highly prolific in the years since, releasing a steady stream of albums including Last of Our Kind (2015), Pinewood Smile (2017), Easter Is Cancelled (2019), and Motorheart (2021). Musical Style and Legacy