Concert Review: The Darkness at Manchester Apollo – 31/03/2025
The stage is set with smoke machines billowing out clouds of mist, the neon ‘The Darkness’ logo gleaming above the stage, and bright stage lights that temporarily blind the onlookers. As the band makes their dramatic entrance to the tune of ‘Rock and Roll Party Cowboy,’ a wave of shivers and excitement washes over the crowd, setting the tone for a classic rock ‘n’ roll experience. The opening chords of ‘Growing on Me’ electrify the atmosphere, with Justin showcasing his guitar prowess in a playful display that harks back to their early days over two decades ago.
Despite a delayed start, the band’s lead vocalist apologizes to the eager audience, only to be interrupted by a devoted fan whose mother shed tears when the original show date was canceled. With a cheeky grin, Justin promises to make them cry in a different way, evoking flirtatious cheers from the crowd. The band launches into ‘Get Your Hands Off My Woman,’ with Justin delivering the iconic ‘MOTHERFUCKERRRRRR’ line with gusto, proving that there is still plenty of fire in his rock ‘n’ roll spirit. The thunderous riff of ‘Mortal Dread’ from their latest album, ‘Dreams On Toast,’ reverberates through the venue, prompting the crowd to clap along to the infectious beat and chorus.
The familiar guitar intro of ‘Motorbreath’ fills the room, reminiscent of the classic ‘Ace of Spades,’ while Rufus’s impeccable drumming adds an extra layer of intensity to the live performance. Following a playful jab at Mumford and Sons and their record label, the band launches into ‘Walking Through Fire,’ a defiant anthem that celebrates their unwavering passion for rock music. ‘Love Is Only a Feeling’ and ‘The Longest Kiss’ keep the energy high, with the crowd swaying in unison to the anthemic melodies.
As the band transitions between upbeat hits and heartfelt ballads, Rufus takes center stage for a touching rendition of ‘My Only,’ dedicated to his beloved dog. ‘Friday Night’ becomes a heartwarming moment as Justin serenades Karen, the fan who was moved to tears by the canceled show, creating a sense of intimacy and connection with the audience. The euphoric chorus of ‘I Believe in a Thing Called Love’ brings the crowd together in a harmonious sing-along, showcasing Justin’s undiminished vocals and the band’s electrifying stage presence.
The encore performance kicks off with ‘Weekend in Rome,’ a new track featuring soulful vocals and Spanish guitar accents that transport the audience to a romantic getaway. The set concludes with the pulsating energy of ‘I Hate Myself,’ a standout track from their latest album that showcases the band’s ability to deliver poignant lyrics with a dose of humor and infectious energy. Leaving the stage to thunderous applause, The Darkness proves that they are still the quintessential glam metal band of the 21st century, captivating audiences with their unrivaled stage presence and tight musicality. The resounding applause echoing through the O2 Apollo serves as a testament to their enduring legacy in the world of rock ‘n’ roll.