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THE REVIEW
The ten songs of "One Way Ticket To Hell... And Back", the highly anticipated second album by The Darkness, do not even remotely compare to those of their explosive 2003 debut "Permission To Land". The musical formula overflowing with nods to the past (from the likes of Freddie Mercury's Queen downward) that brought them fame and glory has not paid off this time.
The reasons are evident right from the listening of the leading single that gives the album its title; the production, entrusted to Roy Thomas Baker (Rolling Stones, The Who, and the inevitable Queen of Bohemian Rhapsody), has polished the "tacky" sound of the Darkness more than necessary, thus stripping strength from songs that are formally impeccable but lack soul. One of the main elements that made "Permission To Land" a great success was undoubtedly, in addition to the famous "I Believe In A Thing Called Love", the powerful wall of sound (Black Shuck, Growing On Me, and Get Your Hands Off My Woman) achieved by the Hawkins brothers' guitars.
In this second work, both the great singles of yesteryear and that rough and dirty sound are missing. The first single released "One Way Ticket" is unconvincing, while the subsequent "Knockers" and "Is It Just Me?" are merely faded replicas of what was already heard on the previous album. The only listenable track is the tear-jerking ballad "Seemed Like A Good Idea At The Time", perhaps a bit too sentimental due to the strings but acceptable as a whole.
Although it may seem unfair to reproach the English quartet for the lack of catchy singles, it must be said that it is reasonable to expect at least a bit more craft, especially if they choose not to change the game. The departure of bassist Frankie Poullain for economic reasons, lead singer Justin's solo projects, a song dedicated to the fear of losing hair (Bald), and the poor sales of "One Way Ticket To Hell... And Back" do not paint a rosy picture for The Darkness. See you at the third album, if there will be one.
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Summary by Bot
The Darkness' second album, 'One Way Ticket To Hell... And Back,' falls short compared to their debut. Overly polished production strips away the gritty charm and soul that made 'Permission To Land' a success. The singles feel like weak imitations and only one ballad stands out. Lineup changes and poor sales add to the album's struggles. Fans await a stronger third effort.
The Darkness
The Darkness are an English hard rock band known for flamboyant classic-rock revivalism, Justin Hawkins’ high-register vocals, and a sound often compared (in reviews) to AC/DC and Queen. Their debut “Permission to Land” (2003) broke through in the UK, followed by “One Way Ticket to Hell... And Back” with production by Roy Thomas Baker; later post-reunion albums discussed here include “Pinewood Smile” and “Easter Is Cancelled.”17 Reviews
Other reviews
By Torre Ste
The Darkness is ready to take both paths simultaneously with an album titled 'One Way Ticket To Hell… And Back' improving their sound by adding strings and removing some of the excess guitars.
The closing track 'Blind Man' with its magnificent vocals and strings is the best song on the album, hinting at a third album worthy of applause.
By Spike Joe
The Darkness however seem to have missed the mark with their new album, truly flat, with few ideas and a decidedly more "soft" sound.
It takes willpower and one must keep in check the thirst for money to escape this vicious circle.
By Filippo Guzzardi
If rock’n’roll is musically dead, it is not in spirit, in its evocative power: and it never will be!
The Darkness do not obscure their sources; instead, they blatantly display them: early AC/DC and Queen above all.
By Starblazer
"The pinnacle of the more rock side of the album, which also boasts gems like the passionate and dark 'Bald'..."
"Albums like this are good for your health, period."
