Review: The Darkness, Wolverhampton Civic Hall
So what would you expect from a gig by The Darkness? Pounding rock tunes sprinkled with theatrics and lycra? Well, the crowd at Wolverhampton's Civic Hall got all that in abundance.
They burst on to stage like a group of rock newcomers hungry for success.
And they didn't let the energy levels slip for a second.
You certainly couldn't accuse The Darkness of not giving it 100 per cent – and then some.
It may have been years since they first burst on to the scene.
But last night's gig had all the hallmarks of a band still loving the buzz of performing like they did their first taste of fame, with the crowd treated to a rock tour de force.
Eccentric frontman Justin Hawkins, wearing a black and white striped catsuit, showcased his trademark showmanship.
With elements of Mick Jagger and Freddie Mercury in his over-the-top stage persona, the star put in a pitch-perfect performance that had the crowd hanging on his every word.
Material from the band's new album Hot Cakes was showcased along with their greatest hits – and even a snippet of their famous Christmas song on request from the crowd.
Soaring guitar riffs, audience sing a-longs and a carriage through the crowd by the frontman for good measure.
They certainly know how to put on a show.
Adam Greenhalgh
