Fono
The Borderline, London, UK
September 23, 1999
by James Stewart
Fono weren't fully briefed for their performance at one of London's finest small venues, the Borderline. They weren't expecting the show to be so metal-centered. But nevertheless, they acquitted themselves, and their brand of radio-ready alterna-rock went over well.
It's been over three years of hard work since an unknown group called Seven opened for Bon Jovi. Since then they've honed their songs and their show and evolved into Fono. Those three well-spent years show clearly in their well rehearsed stage act and the band's rock solid rhythm section--drummer Andy Ridley and bassist Ian Crawford know each other well. Newcomer Thom Donovan adds depth to the sound in his second-guitar role, releasing vocalist/guitarist Del Currie to put more of his energy into his role as the front-man.
The set was fairly short and consisted entirely of tracks from the band's debut album, GoesAroundComesAround. Their passionate energy demanded attention from a crowd waiting for something much heavier. Although the crowd was never completely energized, they certainly paid Fono a healthy degree of respect, even when the band held entirely still for thirty seconds during "Something Must Be Happening."
Their role as a supporting act prevented Fono from really letting loose, which was a shame as it would be even more satisfying to hear the increased lineup really push themselves. Nevertheless, Fono keep improving, and should win a many new friends supporting the Goo Goo Dolls on their current tour.
For a review of Fono's album Goes
Around Comes Around