American band My Chemical Romance (MCR) are at the Metro Radio Arena in Newcastle on Sunday, November 11.

They and their followers are known for their gloomy attire – but don't dare call them emo.

It's a label that's often been attached to them, but frontman Gerard Way let it be known they want to shake it off.

Even though they appeal to teenagers who love their dark lyrics and garb, he described the tag as "garbage".

"I think there's bands that get lumped with that and are considered emo, and by default that starts to make us emo."

Whatever you call them, there's no doubt MCR are a force to be reckoned with, even if they do seem determined to alienate many of their fans.

Way and ex-drummer Matt Pelissier formed the band in New Jersey in 2001, about a week after the 9/11 attacks.

Seeing the planes crash into the World Trade Centre affected Way so much that he decided to start a band, and he quickly recruited Ray Toro on guitar so he didn't have to sing and play at the same time.

Way's younger brother Mikey dropped out of college to learn bass, and a second guitarist, Frank Iero, joined just before they recorded their debut album, I Brought You My Bullets, You Brought Me Your Love, in 2002.

It earned them a deal with Reprise Records, which released their major label debut Three Cheers For Sweet Revenge in 2004.

It was a major commercial success, selling more than two million copies, due partly to the success of the singles Helena, I'm Not Okay (I Promise), and The Ghost of You.

By this time Bob Bryar had replaced Pelissier on drums, and great things were expected of their third album, 2006's The Black Parade.

Mikey Way said the band wanted it to be "the album that My Chemical Romance are remembered for".

"When you hear a song, it shoots you back to a moment in time. We want this album to do that for people."

It didn't disappoint, just missing the top spot in the UK.

Tickets for the Arena gig, priced £21.50 plus the usual add-ons, are available now from 0870 707 8000.