The title says it all, really. The Darkness were the surprise success story of 2003, but the last couple of years haven't been easy for the hairy glam-rockers - as well as losing their bassist, they developed some nasty drug habits. It was always doubtful whether their comedy mock-opera sound could be developed sustain them as far as a second album, and sadly those doubts have been fully realised. The Queen meets Carry On formula sounds as knackered as the band clearly feel, and there just aren't as many memorable songs this time around. They were a good laugh when they appeared on the scene, but now The Darkness come across as Spinal Tap with all the jokes taken out. Maybe it's time to turn out the light for good.
