The Darkness: Dreams on Toast at Showbox Market
The Darkness brought their electrifying Dreams on Toast Tour to the Showbox Market in Seattle, delivering a performance that was nothing short of spectacular. Hailing from the seaside town of Lowestoft, England, the band has come a long way since their formation in 2000. What began as brothers Justin and Dan Hawkins‘ ambitious vision to blend Queen-like theatrics with AC/DC-style riffs has evolved into one of rock’s most entertaining acts. Along with bassist Frankie Poullain and drummer Rufus Tiger Taylor, they’ve maintained their signature sound while continuing to push creative boundaries.
From the moment they took the stage, The Darkness commanded attention with their signature blend of hard rock riffs and falsetto vocals. Frontman Justin Hawkins, known for his outrageous stage presence, didn’t disappoint, prancing and preening in true rock star fashion while hitting those impossibly high notes that have become the band’s trademark.
The setlist was a perfect mix of new material from “Dreams on Toast” and beloved classics. A particular highlight of the evening came when the band launched into a surprising and powerful rendition of “The Power of Love,” the Jennifer Rush classic. Hawkins‘s soaring vocals were perfectly suited to the emotional intensity of the power ballad, giving the 80s hit a fresh, hard-rock makeover that had the crowd in awe.
The new songs fit seamlessly alongside hits like “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” and “Growing on Me,” showcasing how far the band has come since their 2003 breakthrough album Permission to Land. The intimate setting of the Showbox allowed for an up-close and personal experience, with the band feeding off the energy of the enthusiastic Seattle crowd. Guitar solos soared, drums thundered, and the basslines pulsed through the floor, creating an immersive rock experience that left ears ringing and spirits soaring.
What stood out most was the band’s undeniable chemistry and sheer joy in performing. Despite being eight albums deep into their career, The Darkness played with the hunger and excitement of a group just starting out. Their enthusiasm was infectious, turning the concert into a celebration of rock ‘n’ roll in all its excessive, glorious splendor.
As the night came to a close, it was clear that The Darkness had not only lived up to expectations but exceeded them. Their Dreams on Toast Tour stop in Seattle was a testament to their enduring appeal and their status as one of rock’s most entertaining live acts. For fans of The Darkness and rock music in general, this concert was a must-see event that will be remembered long after the final chords faded away.
Photos: Sophia Barkalakis @s.barkalakis