5 "Joke" Bands That Have Way More Talent Than You Think

4. The Darkness

It's really unfortunate that The Darkness even needs to be included on this list, because they're truly not a joke band. There's nothing jokey about them, aside from the fact that they enjoy spandex, leather, and fur with a verve not seen since the 70s. Unfortunately, too many people are unable to look past their obvious Queen influences to consider them as something other than a persistent tribute band. But whereas fellow retro rockers Wolfmother can't move beyond their debt to Led Zeppelin, The Darkness is constantly evolving their sound and creating an awe-inspiring patchwork of glam rock, heavy metal, and even AC/DC-style barroom blues. They can't seem to shake the effects of "I Believe in a Thing Called Love," despite the fact that they've won several BRIT Awards and are routinely recognized for their outstanding live shows. (Find them on tour when you get the chance!) So before you write The Darkness off as a one-note throwback, take a listen to the three albums that came out after all the fuss about "I Believe in a Thing Called Love" died down. You won't be disappointed. Serious Talent Alert: "Barbarian" https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GR35pRz7JQ8