Since THE DARKNESS disappeared up their own arse, it's been quite a wait to see what would come of the band members. Well, chief song-writer Dan Hawkins and his buddy Richie Edwards have come out with a rocking new band STONE GODS, and now finally, flamboyant frontman Justin Hawkins has surfaced with his own band HOT LEG. Playing what Hawkins describes as 'man rock' – HOT LEG are quite unsurprisingly over-the-top, with an image that would make them look right at home at an 1980's fancy dress party.

Around a hundred hardy souls gathered in Stoke tonight to see what Hawkins had been musically up to over the past few years. Let's make one thing clear, tonight was not about reflection and past glories, with Hawkins happily ignoring any reference to THE DARKNESS. Those who had come to hear the likes of 'Growing on Me' and 'I Believe in a Thing Called Love' were destined to go home disappointed. The entire set was made up of songs that will presumably appear on HOT LEG's debut album, due to be released in January. The material was very enjoyable, of course, with Hawkins vocals, it does sound somewhat like THE DARKNESS – but there are some musical differences. The THIN LIZZY style guitar harmonies are gone, and the songs are a little more punchy, with some quite aggressive riffing, courtesy of impressive guitarist Pete Rinaldi.

The free download singles 'Trojan Guitar' and 'Heroes' were highlights as Hawkins pranced around the stage with his usual swagger. You can't help but have a smile on your face when you watch this guy strut his stuff. As a girl on the front row threw her shiny knickers at him, only Justin Hawkins would proceed to pick them up and wear them for the rest of the show. Hilarious stuff. Forthcoming Christmas single 'I've Met Jesus' is one to look out for, even if it's not likely to rival the past success of 'Christmas Time (Don't Let The Bells End)'.

If you were a fan of Justin Hawkins in THE DARKNESS, then HOT LEG will be right up your street. The hour set was nothing if not entertaining, even if it is a little frustrating to see a band whose material is unfamiliar to you. I couldn't help but crave a rendition of 'Get Your Hands Off My Woman' - but as yet another new songs 'Chickens' rounded things off, I had to give respect to Justin Hawkins for well and truly moving on. The best of luck to him…

HOT LEG Setlist: Cocktails / You Can't Hurt Me / Trojan Guitar / Gay In The 80's / Heroes / Whichever Way / Xtraordinarywoman / Prima Donna / Come Into My Arms / Do In The Dark / I've Met Jesus / Theme From Hot Leg / Chickens

HOT LEG Rating: 4.3/5.0

 
Review by James Allman

Photography by Alexander Shaw