They reveal plans for a new album in 2017, too....

ever since they dropped 'Christmas Time (Don't Let The Bells End)', The Darkness have become as much a part of the Yuletide as mince pies, Noddy Holder's sideburns and drunk businessmen in karaoke bars. To prove how much it means to them still, The Darkness have announced a details of their own festival, Darknesstival for 18 December at indigo at the 02 to coincide with their favourite, festive time of year.

Billed as a fan convention, it sounds like the most eccentric Darkness heavy day of anyone's life ever. It starts at midday and there's no other bands but them playing. In addition to their live performance it's a day of Darkness themed activities. Perfect for the super fans.

The convention will feature a memorabilia and photography exhibition of rare and unseen items and photos; a green screen 'be in the band' experience; a 360 Degree Virtual Reality concert screening; Q&A with the band; Masterclasses; table tennis competition to face Justin and Rufus in the final; Karaoke; Fan Interviews; Darkness inspired Tattoo Parlour; Quizzes; ‘Have your say’ sessions; Documentary Trailer screening and much more....

Of the decision to host this around Christmas, the band commented "Christmas comes but once a year, so they say, and with our new album in the bag and ready for release in 2017, we want to spend Christmas with our fans at the IndigO2! Listen with amazement to old and new songs, gaze incredulously at ancient historical things from yesteryear, dribble freely in front of previously unseen pictures, and finally cry hot tears of shame as you lose to us at table tennis! Nothing says Christmas like a petulantly discarded table tennis bat, so come one come all!"



Elsewhere, The Darkness had a summer of playing some mainstages at festivals this year and won over crowds with their ballsy classic rock sound. But not Kendal Calling reviewer Hywel Roberts who said there was something "a little flat about the whole show. Mid-career ennui maybe, or just fatigue, but it feels like they just need something to kickstart their love for the game." Ouch.



