Darkness

The Profile

The name Darkness in these reviews refers to two distinct bands: the German thrash group from Essen (formed in 1984, creators of Death Squad) and the British hard/glam rock band The Darkness from Suffolk (known for Hot Cakes and their falsetto-powered frontman).

Publicly verifiable: Darkness (DE) formed in Essen in 1984 and released Death Squad in 1987. The Darkness (UK) formed in the early 2000s in Suffolk; core members include Justin Hawkins, Dan Hawkins, Frankie Poullain, and Ed Graham; their debut Permission to Land topped the UK Albums Chart. Emily Dolan Davies briefly joined as drummer around 2014–2015.

These reviews cover two different acts named Darkness: the German thrash band behind Death Squad (1987) and the UK hard/glam rock outfit The Darkness, celebrated for Hot Cakes (2012). You’ll find deep dives into riffs, arrangements, and production, plus a news piece on drummer changes. Highlights include nostalgic thrash fury, Queen/AC/DC-styled hooks, and notes on Justin Hawkins’ showmanship. Expect passion, detail, and some sly humor.