The Darkness (band)

The Darkness are a British rock band formed in Lowestoft, Suffolk, in 2000. The band consists of Justin Hawkins (lead vocals, guitar, keyboards), his brother Dan Hawkins (lead guitar, backing vocals), Frankie Poullain (bass, backing vocals), and Rufus Taylor (drums, backing vocals). Former members include Ed Graham (drums) and Richie Edwards (bass, guitar, backing vocals).

The band is known for their glam rock revivalist sound, high-energy live performances, and Justin Hawkins' distinctive falsetto vocals. They achieved mainstream success with their debut album, Permission to Land, released in 2003. The album spawned the hit singles "I Believe in a Thing Called Love," "Growing on Me," and "Love Is Only a Feeling," propelling them to international fame and winning them three BRIT Awards in 2004.

Their second album, One Way Ticket to Hell... And Back, was released in 2005 but failed to replicate the success of its predecessor. Internal tensions and struggles with addiction led to Justin Hawkins' departure from the band in 2006.

The Darkness reformed in 2011, with all original members except Richie Edwards, who was replaced by Frankie Poullain. They have since released several studio albums: Hot Cakes (2012), Last of Our Kind (2015), Pinewood Smile (2017), Easter Is Cancelled (2019), Motorheart (2021), and Permission to Land... Again (2023).

The band continues to tour and record, maintaining a devoted fanbase drawn to their unique blend of hard rock, glam, and humor. They are considered influential in the revival of classic rock sounds in the 21st century.