News: The Darkness Return to Australia and New Zealand with Dreams On Toast

The Darkness will return to Australia and New Zealand in February 2026, bringing their distinctive mix of theatrical rock and razor-sharp songwriting to audiences across both countries. The tour follows the band’s 2024 run celebrating the 20th anniversary of their debut album Permission To Land, and will include shows in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Gold Coast, Newcastle, Wollongong, Hobart, Fremantle, Frankston, and two dates in Auckland and Wellington.

Formed in Lowestoft in the early 2000s, The Darkness broke through in 2003 with Permission To Land, an album that earned them three BRIT Awards and produced enduring hits like “I Believe In A Thing Called Love” and “Love Is Only A Feeling.” Their mix of classic rock stylings, tongue-in-cheek bravado, and melodic precision won them a devoted following, both in the UK and internationally.

The upcoming shows will feature material from their latest record Dreams On Toast, released in March. Tracks like “I Hate Myself” and “The Longest Kiss” continue the band’s commitment to riff-driven, theatrical rock, while introducing more introspective songwriting alongside their usual flair. It marks the first opportunity for Australian and New Zealand audiences to hear the new songs performed live.

Known for their commitment to performance—soaring falsettos, extended solos, and a wardrobe that nods equally to Queen and glam-era Bowie—The Darkness have long made their shows a dependable fixture on the touring circuit. While their humour and excess are often noted, it’s their musicianship and songwriting that have kept fans returning.

This tour offers both a chance to revisit the band’s early breakthroughs and explore their current direction. It’s less about nostalgia, and more about continuity—proving The Darkness are still very much in their stride.

THE DARKNESS AUSTRALIA AND NEW ZEALAND 2026

With Special Guests to be announced

Tue 17 Feb – Powerstation, Auckland

Wed 18 Feb – Meow Nui, Wellington

Fri 20 Feb – The Tivoli, Brisbane

Sat 21 Feb – Miami Marketta, Gold Coast

Sun 22 Feb – Bar On The Hill, Newcastle

Wed 25 Feb – Waves, Wollongong

Fri 27 Feb – Enmore Theatre, Sydney

Sat 28 Feb – Hindley Street, Adelaide

Sun 1 Mar – Odeon, Hobart

Wed 4 Mar – Metropolis, Fremantle