The Darkness Cancel Tour Due to Drummer’s Health Problems

There will be no trek Down Under for The Darkness. The band has canceled its forthcoming tour of Australia with Joan Jett and the Blackhearts due to drummer Ed Graham's hip problems.

Graham has a history of hip issues and they've flared up again, forcing the band to bail on the tour of Oz. The tour was slated to launch on April 2, but Graham needs rest and tests. No, really!

The Darkness offer some significant detail on their skinsman's condition and even explain why they elected to pull out of the tour, as opposed to hiring a fill in or a replacement. They felt it's not fair to fans and didn't want to offer a version of The Darkness, as opposed to The Darkness. They don't believe in Alternative Eds and we don't blame 'em.

The band's statement on the matter is as follows:

"It is with great regret that we are having to cancel The Darkness' planned April dates in Australia/New Zealand. As some of you maybe aware, Ed has had some prior history with hip problems, which resulted in extensive surgery a few years ago, and caused him to miss some U.S. dates in 2012.

"Unfortunately, over the course of the past few weeks' touring, Ed has been feeling that all is not right in that department, and has been advised to undergo some rest and tests before potentially taking a backwards step and making matters worse. He will continue with the last few European shows and will then be forced to take some time out immediately to ensure him back to 100% fitness. This very sadly results in the immediate cancellation of the Antipodean tour.

"We will, of course, look to reschedule dates into our scheduling and itinerary as soon as possible, but have nothing solid to be able to make work currently, hence this being a cancelation rather than a postponement. All ticket holders can get refunds from the point of purchase.

"The Darkness also feel that to visit countries which do not get enough shows by them as it is, and not have the full, proper and original band lineup, is simply not the right thing to do. To that end, there won't be any possibility for stand-ins or alternative Eds for these shows and we won't be touring with any ersatz model! We hope to have details of re-scheduled shows very soon. The Darkness sends its most heartfelt apologies to everyone involved and look forward to seeing you all as soon as possible."