| The Tension and the Spark | |
| Type: | studio |
| Artist: | Darren Hayes |
| Cover: | TensionandtheSpark.jpg |
| Released: | 13 September 2004 |
| Recorded: | 2003–2004 |
| Genre: | Pop, electronica |
| Length: | 58:52 (International edition) 62:52 (Australian edition) |
| Label: | Columbia |
| Producer: | Darren Hayes, Robert Conley |
| Prev Title: | Spin |
| Prev Year: | 2002 |
| Next Title: | This Delicate Thing We've Made |
| Next Year: | 2007 |
The Tension and the Spark is the second studio album by Darren Hayes, released in 2004. The album was a change for Hayes, who took a more electronic and darker style for this record and also delved deeper into more personal matter. During the recording, the singer has returned his old and traditional black hair which is used for the 1990s and Savage Garden era, before their split in October 2001. This dramatic change alienated some of his fan-base, who were expecting a result similar to his previous effort "Spin". The title of the album is derived from lyrics featured in the second track, "I Like the Way".
The album was received warmly by critics and fans, praising its personal matter. The Observer said "This album is no folly and succeeds, often to the point of all out triumph, on its own terms." Despite high positive reviews, it was not a large hit, and Hayes split with Columbia Records in 2006.