The Darkness performing at Forum Theatre on Saturday, 7th March 2026
The Darkness has made its return to Australia for the ninth time in just two years, much to the excitement of their fans. On a pleasant Saturday evening during Labor Day weekend, the crowd eagerly gathers at the Forum to witness the iconic UK glam metal rockers perform songs from their latest album, Dreams on Toast. The energy inside the venue is palpable, with fans eagerly anticipating the band’s lively performance and entertaining antics.
Lead singer Justin Hawkins graces the stage in a more subdued outfit compared to his trademark low-cut jumpsuits from previous years. Despite embracing the aging process like the rest of us, he exudes confidence throughout the night. Justin, along with his brother Dan Hawkins on lead and rhythm guitar, is joined by Frankie Poullain on bass, Rufus Tiger Taylor on drums, and touring musician Ian “Soft Lad” Norfolk on rhythm guitar, acoustic guitar, mandolin, and keys. The band’s name, “The Darkness,” is illuminated in red cursive script as a backdrop to their performance, adding to the overall ambiance.
The concert kicks off with a bang as The Darkness launches into their latest single, “Rock and Roll Party Cowboy,” captivating the audience from the very beginning. The band’s tongue-in-cheek lyrics are complemented by their musical prowess, showcased by their impressive debut album, Permission to Land, which won them an Ivor Novello award for songwriters of the year in 2004. Classic hits like “Growing on Me” from their debut album and the heavy “Motorheart” from their latest release have the crowd headbanging in unison.
Throughout the evening, the band mixes in covers of iconic songs like John Farnham’s “You’re The Voice” and INXS’ “Don’t Change” (which Justin struggles to remember the words to). The performance of Radiohead’s “Creep,” a song they no longer play live, highlights Justin’s incredible vocal range and guitar skills. Fans young and old join in the sing-along to classics like “Friday Night” and the crowd favorite, “I Believe in a Thing Called Love,” showcasing The Darkness’ ability to engage and entertain their audience.
The encore, featuring “I Hate Myself” from their latest album, “Dreams on Toast,” sees Justin donning a T-shirt that reads “Fuck off, I’m dancing,” much to the delight of the crowd. The band’s lively sing-alongs, energetic performance, and witty banter solidify their reputation as one of the best live acts in the industry.
Overall, The Darkness’ return to Australia proves to be a night full of rock music, playful antics, and celebration, leaving fans with an unforgettable concert experience. With their impressive setlist and captivating performance, The Darkness continues to reign as a powerhouse in the world of live rock music.