Revolution Hall was buzzing on November 17th, and the energy only climbed as Mark Daly & The Ravens stepped onto the stage. The Irish rock outfit wasted zero time amplifying the momentum for the night’s headliners. With flinging long locks, synchronized guitar riffs, and soaring vocals that rang through the theater, they delivered the kind of classic rock swagger that instantly makes you pay attention. Their stage presence was electric—constant movement, tight musicianship, and a confidence that warmed the crowd up perfectly. Between the vivid lighting design and the band’s nonstop motion, it was impossible to look away.

Frontman Mark Daly, known for his gritty, emotional rock writing and powerful voice, led the charge with a set that balanced anthemic choruses and melodic heaviness. The Ravens brought a polished yet edgy dynamic behind him, showing off their musical chemistry and their knack for stirring a room into full-on anticipation mode.

Then came The Darkness, strutting onto the stage like the glam-rock titans they are. From the first note, lead singer Justin Hawkins had the audience wrapped around his finger. He belted out the band’s biggest hits—complete with his signature falsetto that still sounds almost superhuman—and worked the stage with pure rock-and-roll theatrics. Women were tossing bras onstage, and Hawkins swung them around with playful charisma as he strutted, kicked, climbed, and ripped through those iconic high notes.

The band’s performance was a reminder of why they’ve remained cult favorites since exploding onto the scene in the early 2000s with Permission to Land. Dan Hawkins delivered razor-tight riffs, Frankie Poullain held down the groove with swagger, and Rufus Taylor (son of Queen’s Roger Taylor) brought thunderous precision to the drums. Their entire set felt like a celebration of classic glam, heavy riffs, and theatrical excess—all delivered with humor and sincerity.

Every minute of The Darkness’ show was entertaining, loud, and joyously over-the-top. From Justin’s costume changes to his effortless banter, the crowd never stopped cheering. Revolution Hall echoed with nostalgia, adrenaline, and pure fun from start to finish.

If you came to dance, scream-sing, or witness one of the last true showmen in modern rock, this show delivered. Portland was lucky to have them—and based on the crowd’s reaction, the feeling was mutual.