The last time I saw the Lowestoft rockers my review was, well; less than flattering. They then went on to become a huge success, which shows how much I know.

After Saturday’s gig, part of Forestry Commission Live Music 2012, I have to say I kind of get it.

Surrounded by an army of Darkness fans of all ages I was treated to an hour-and-a-half of proper rock. No glam-rock get-ups, no overblown 70s theatrical throwbacks, just good vocals, solid musicianship and high hopes for their third album.

Not being a fan I didn’t recognise many of the tracks; but the crowd lapped up every falsetto, every heavy guitar lick. If people weren’t dancing they were playing air guitar.

Frontman Justin Hawkins is still every inch the showman. His banter with the audience was hilarious and made us forget about the encroaching rain clouds.

Needless to say everybody went wild when they played biggest hit I Believe in a Thing Called Love.

We arrived too late to see opening act Walkway thanks to the weather, but they went down well by all accounts.

Support act Black Stone Cherry deserve special mention. Catching the last half of their set I wouldn’t mind tracking down their last release.

All in all a great night out at a great venue and it didn’t rain until the encore, result.

Read my interview with Justin Hawkins online.

WAYNE SAVAGE