The Darkness - Permission To Land… Again (4LP) - 20th Anniversary Vinyl

The Darkness's album "Permission to Land... Again" was released on November 17, 2023. This album marks a significant return for the band, who first burst onto the scene in the early 2000s with their debut album "Permission to Land". The original album was a massive success, catapulting them into the limelight with hits like "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" and earning them a Brit Award for Best British Group in 2004. With "Permission to Land... Again", the band aims to recapture that magic while also showcasing their growth and evolution as artists.

From the very first listen, it’s clear that The Darkness has not lost their signature sound. The album is packed with the high-energy glam rock that fans have come to love, complete with Justin Hawkins's soaring falsetto and the band’s trademark guitar riffs. The opening track, "Welcome to the Show", sets the tone perfectly, inviting listeners into a world of flamboyant rock and roll. It’s an anthem that feels both nostalgic and fresh, reminding us why we fell in love with The Darkness in the first place.

One of the standout tracks on the album is "Jaded", which features a catchy chorus and a driving beat that makes it impossible not to tap your feet along. The lyrics reflect a sense of longing and introspection, showcasing a more mature side of the band while still retaining their playful spirit. Another highlight is "I’m Alive", a track that perfectly encapsulates the band’s ability to blend humor with heartfelt emotion. The guitar work on this song is particularly impressive, with Dan Hawkins delivering some truly electrifying solos.

Critically, "Permission to Land... Again" has received a warm reception from major publications. NME praised the album for its infectious energy and noted that it feels like a celebration of rock music in its purest form. Rolling Stone highlighted the band’s ability to balance nostalgia with innovation, calling it a triumphant return. Fans and critics alike have noted that the album feels like a love letter to the genre, filled with references to classic rock while still sounding contemporary.

The production of the album is another point of interest. Recorded in the band’s own studio, the album has a raw and authentic feel that captures the essence of The Darkness. The band worked closely with producer Nick Brine, who has a history of working with them on previous projects. This collaboration has resulted in a polished yet energetic sound that feels true to their roots.

Interestingly, the album also features a few guest appearances that add an extra layer of excitement. Notably, the legendary guitarist Brian May of Queen lends his talents to the track "Rock and Roll is Dead", which is a fun homage to the classic rock era. This collaboration has been a talking point among fans, as it brings together two iconic bands from different generations.

On a personal note, Justin Hawkins has shared in interviews that this album was a labor of love, reflecting on the challenges the band faced during the pandemic and how it brought them closer together. He mentioned that the experience of creating this album was cathartic, allowing them to channel their experiences into their music. This sense of camaraderie and resilience shines through in the album, making it feel like a celebration of not just their music, but of life itself.

In conclusion, "Permission to Land... Again" is a fantastic addition to The Darkness's discography. It captures the essence of what made their debut so special while also showcasing their growth as musicians. With its catchy hooks, powerful vocals, and stellar guitar work, this album is sure to please both long-time fans and newcomers alike. As they continue to tour and promote this album, it’s clear that The Darkness is back and ready to rock, proving that they still have plenty of permission to land.