British rockers The Darkness are back - as The Stone Gods. The core of the I Believe In A Thing Called Love hitmakers were on the verge of splitting when frontman Justin Hawkins quit the band 18 months ago, but brother Dan decided to change the name and press on.

The guitarist tells Blabbermouth.net, "It's only when you have something taken away from you that you realise how much you love doing it. All the bulls**t's gone and we can start again. As soon as we recorded the first demos, we felt like we were winning. This is the best and most enjoyable band I've ever been in."

Brother Justin's place in the band has been taken by singer Richie Edwards.

Toby Macfarlaine and drummer Ed Graham complete the new act.

Hawkins adds, "I see this band as a really straightforward, honest rock band. We're not afraid to go slightly left of field and not follow one set path... It's about songs and not just a sound. I just can't f---in' wait to play these songs to people."

The Stone Gods will debut new songs on tour in 2008.

(This news article provided by World Entertainment News Network)