Ten years on, The Darkness return to the stage for the 45th edition of the Pistoia Blues Festival. On Wednesday, July 8, 2026, in an exclusive date for central and southern Italy, the Hawkins brothers, joined by Frankie Poullain and Rufus Taylor, will bring their energy to Piazza del Duomo for an unmissable evening.
Since their last performance in Pistoia, the band’s growth has been extraordinary, especially thanks to their new eighth album, Dreams On Toast, released this year and recently recognized as the most successful British rock album of the 21st century.
One of the most beloved British rock bands, The Darkness have captivated generations with spectacular shows and a multi-platinum catalog. After a career marked by global success, a split, and a comeback, they celebrated the 20th anniversary of their debut with sold-out tours and an acclaimed documentary. With Dreams On Toast (2025), they have returned to the top of the charts and, in 2026, will embark on their biggest headlining tour in 20 years, hitting seven arenas across the UK, including their first-ever headline show at London’s O2 Arena, preceded by a performance at Knebworth Park with Iron Maiden.
Opening the evening will be the young Florentine punk band Spleen, formed in 2024 and already known for several singles and performances in the UK. Following them will be the Venetian band Messa, recently released The Spin, their fourth album, which expands on their Scarlet Doom sound while blending in ’80s gothic rock atmospheres. The band’s influences range from Sisters of Mercy to Vangelis, while singer Sara pushes her voice to new emotional and technical limits, exploring themes of ego, impossible love, self-sabotage, and rebirth.
Details
Tickets will be available from 11 AM on Friday, December 5, via Ticketone, Ticketmaster, Vivaticket, and local authorized outlets.
