In a recent interview with Kerrang!, Justin Hawkins, frontman of The Darkness, discussed the need for rock music to evolve in today’s changing world. His comments came as the band promoted their eighth album, Dreams On Toast.
Hawkins shared his thoughts on the genre’s current state, stating, “At a certain point, you realize the world is changing, and you have to change with it or be left behind.” He explained that rock, in its traditional form, can feel outdated, comparing it to a middle-aged man struggling to keep up with younger generations. According to Hawkins, rock music must adapt to remain relevant.
The band has already played a part in reigniting interest in rock music, though Hawkins noted that many of the recent movements in the genre still take a retro approach. “A lot of the music doesn’t push boundaries,” he said. “It remains marginalized until the perception of it changes.”
Hawkins also pointed out issues within the genre, including its often outdated attitudes. “Rock has been very misogynistic, homophobic, and white,” he explained. “We need bands that bring that same bombastic energy, but with a modern attitude in their lyrics and approach.” While Hawkins clarified that Dreams On Toast is not necessarily a reflection of this change, he emphasized the need for rock to evolve if it wants to thrive again. “If rock music wants to flourish and be the best, it must move beyond the past,” he said, referencing iconic bands like Led Zeppelin and AC/DC.
As the band prepares for a major show at Wembley, Hawkins and The Darkness continue to push boundaries in their music. Dreams On Toast, set for release on March 28, 2025, showcases their growth, blending anthemic rock, Seventies pop, and Beatles-inspired ballads. A notable feature of the album is actor Stephen Dorff’s spoken word contribution on the track “Weekend in Rome,” demonstrating the band’s willingness to experiment.
Hawkins has made it clear that his vision for The Darkness goes beyond nostalgia. “I want this band to be an ‘art thing,'” he said, as the band explores deeper themes such as self-loathing and mental health in tracks like “I Hate Myself.”
Despite facing challenges in their career, The Darkness has shown resilience, playing smaller venues and rebuilding their audience. Guitarist Dan Hawkins reflected on their journey, noting that these experiences have contributed to their current success and upcoming headline performance at Wembley Arena.
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