The Dark One has announced the re-release of their ‘Land License’ album to celebrate their 20th anniversary. The album will be available on October 6, 2023 via Warner Music.
Reflecting on the release, frontman Justin Hawkins says, “I can’t believe it’s only been 20 years since ‘Land License’ was first released, so much has happened. The last two decades have been shaped by the influence of our first album. I’m grateful for every second of this experience and happy to celebrate the 20th anniversary of The Dark Ages’ best debut album. Happy Birthday PTL!”
To celebrate this milestone, the beloved British rock band presents a special 4CD/1DVD release. The collection includes the full original album, rare B-sides, bonus unreleased demos and live albums from their shows at London’s Astoria (2003), Knebworth (supporting Robbie Williams in 2003) and Wembley Arena (2004). A 2-CD edition with a reduced track listing is also available.
The DVD features footage from Knebworth and Astoria’s performances as well as music videos for their hit singles, including ‘I Believe in a Thing Called Love’, ‘Take My Hands Off My Woman’ and ‘Christmas Time (Don’t Let the Bells End). Additionally, it includes a ‘Dark Story’ documentary and behind-the-scenes footage from the ‘Land to Earth’ era.
‘Land License… Again’ will be released as 5LP vinyl, mirroring the 4CD track listing. In the year The original 1LP vinyl, which has been out of print since its original release in 2003, will once again be available for purchase in a new exclusive blue/black marble limited edition color variant.
Following last week’s successful performance with Guns N’ Roses at BST Hyde Park, The Darkness will embark on a world tour starting in the USA in October and across Europe in November. The band have announced UK and Ireland tour dates in Dublin, Norwich, London, Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol and Nottingham, starting on December 2 in Belfast. The tour ends in Wolverhampton on December 16.
The shows promise to be an epic spectacle, with the band performing a walking, guitar-wielding, groove-making masterpiece album in its entirety, along with a ‘best of the rest’ set featuring six of their most popular and beloved favourites. Studio albums.
20 years later, The Darkness still hold their rock star status high, and fans can look forward to seeing ‘Lease to Land… Again’.
