Rocking into the Past: The Darkness’ ‘Permission To Land’ 20th-anniversary reissue is a celebration of a rock classic that has lost none of its charm over the years.

Review by Glen Parkes

The remastered sound quality, bonus tracks, and nostalgic factor make it a must-have for fans of the band and a great introduction for new listeners. Whether you’re revisiting this album or hearing it for the first time, it’s a reminder of the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll and the timeless appeal of The Darkness. 20th Anniversary Reissue Review

Two decades ago, The Darkness burst onto the rock scene with their debut album, “Permission To Land,” igniting a glam rock revival that few saw coming. In celebration of its 20th anniversary, the band has released a special reissue of this iconic album. As we revisit this classic record, it’s time to see if it still holds up and whether this reissue offers anything new for long-time fans and newcomers alike. “Permission To Land” was a breath of fresh air when it was first released in 2003.

With its infectious energy, soaring guitar solos, and the distinct falsetto vocals of Justin Hawkins, it captured the essence of classic rock while adding a modern twist. Hits like “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” and “Love Is Only a Feeling” are still as catchy and anthemic as ever, and they remain the album’s standout tracks. One of the first noticeable aspects of this reissue is the remastered sound quality. The original album had a raw and energetic sound, and the remastering process has only enhanced it. The guitars roar with even more power, the vocals soar with clarity, and the rhythm section pounds with precision. It’s a testament to the album’s timeless appeal that it can still pack such a sonic punch two decades later.

The 20th-anniversary edition of ‘Permission To Land’ includes a selection of bonus tracks that give fans a deeper look into the band’s early days. These tracks provide a glimpse into the creative process and showcase the band’s versatility. While they may not be as iconic as the album’s main tracks, they are a welcome addition for long-time fans. For those who were fans of The Darkness in the early 2000s, this reissue is a trip down memory lane. The album captures the spirit of a time when rock was making a resurgence, and The Darkness was at the forefront of that movement. Hearing tracks like “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” and “Growing on Me” still evokes a sense of nostalgia and excitement. What makes ‘Permission To Land’ truly special is its songwriting. The album is packed with catchy hooks, memorable choruses, and clever lyrics.

Justin Hawkins’ falsetto vocals and the band’s tight musicianship are as infectious as ever.

The songs tackle a range of topics from love and heartbreak to the joys of rock ‘n’ roll excess, and they do so with wit and humour. Artwork and Packaging: The reissue doesn’t just stop at the music. The artwork and packaging have also been given special attention. The album cover retains its iconic look, and the overall presentation is a treat for collectors and fans alike.

The Darkness’ ‘Permission To Land’ 20th-anniversary reissue is a celebration of a rock classic that has lost none of its charm over the years. The remastered sound quality, bonus tracks, and nostalgic factor make it a must-have for fans of the band and a great introduction for new listeners. Whether you’re revisiting this album or hearing it for the first time, it’s a reminder of the enduring power of rock ‘n’ roll and the timeless appeal of The Darkness.

THE DARKNESS
PERMISSION TO LAND… AGAIN (20TH ANNIVERSARY EDITION)

5LP
LP1: Permission to Land (2003)
LP2: Studio bonus tracks (2001-2003)
LP3: Singles & B-Sides
LP4: Live at Knebworth (2003)
LP5: Live at The Astoria (2003)

2CD
CD1: Permission to Land + bonus tracks (demos)
CD2: Singles, B-Sides, and non-album tracks

4CD+DVD
CD1: Permission to Land + bonus tracks (demos)
CD2: Singles, B-Sides and non-album tracks
CD3: Live at Knebworth (2003) and Live at The Astoria (2003)
CD4: Live at Wembley (2004)
DVD: Promo videos, extra features, Live at Knebworth (2003), Live at The Astoria (2003)

DIGITAL
Permission to Land (2003)
Bonus tracks (demos)
Singles, B-sides and non-album tracks
Live at Knebworth (2003)
Live at The Astoria (2003)
Live at Wembley (2004)

Permission To Land was originally released in 2003 via Atlantic Records and stormed to the top of the UK Albums chart, where it remained for four weeks, and spent 53 weeks in the Top 100. It achieved the band three BRIT Awards, including British Album Of The Year, British Group and British Rock Act, where they fended off competition from the likes of Blur, Radiohead, Sugababes, Muse, Primal Scream and more. The record has sold over 3.5 million copies worldwide to date, including 1.8 million in the UK alone.