GUEST BOOK http://www.freegb.net/gbook.cgi?70713 OPTIMUM IMPACT FANZINE JET, JO and SHERI THE LIGHTNESS Norwich Waterfront Friday 28th May 2004 Not really knowing what to expect, we went to the gig with an open mind, ready to be either impressed or at least have a good laugh!. Usually where tribute bands are concerned, one usually tends to think they will be nothing more than just a cheesy rip off of a classic band. With the ability of THE DARKNESS to entertain and make quality music, it would be hard for anyone to convincingly impersonate them. However, as the lights went down and the crowd gathered to the front, the atmosphere became like that of a real gig and not just a stale redial of another bands songs. On first impressions, Steve(Dan), Mike(Frankie), and Andy(Ed) entered the stage, it would have been difficult to recognise them as a Darkness tribute. The Physical resemblance was not obvious other than the finely drawn on moustache and bandana worn by Mike! But, this is a review of their sound and NOT their look. Even so, when Paul(Justin) sprang onto the stage in two odd socks and tight lycra trousers, we knew we had got out moneys worth! At first there appeared to be some tension in the air and a slight nervousness in Paul’s Falsetto (apart from which was actually very good). As the set progresses, the nerves seemed to settle and there was definitely something very Justin like about PAUL, In fact Justin was Justin with blond Dreads!. The on stage chemistry between the band members seemed to make everything fit together perfectly and despite our earlier reservations, they were extremely convincing. The chords of Stuck in a Rut rung out as Paul exited the stage, Re-entering a few moments later in a beautiful pink cat suit. From then on, everything was even more DARKNESS-ESQUE, even including a sing a long with the crowd in Love on the Rocks (with no ice) and a few darts into the audience. We came away feeling as though a great night had been had by all. We rocked our way through the set, which seemed to go very quickly (as time does when you are having fun). And were pleasantly surprised and impressed. All four band members played brilliantly. The LIGHTNESS are worth checking out if you get the chance. The only question we were left with at the end of the night was – where were the flames. ------------------- THE LIGHTNESS Formed towards the end of 2003 by the will of GOD and the need to make a few quid, Four lads from the Bewdley, Kidderminster and Bridgnorth area, who all attend the KIDDERMINSTER COLLEGE, decided that the DARKNESS were in fact very good indeed and deserved a TRIBUTE BAND, they being the type who like to dress up decided it should be them. Lo and behold out of THE DARKNESS came THE LIGHTNESS TO THE REAL THING. THE ONE AND ONLY THE DARKNESS A BIG THANKYOU