Going to this good sized O2 Islington Academy - large enough - yet not too large - to see this FM gig - turned out to be a real thrill for me. Firstly, Brave Rival on support were a great choice. They provided a ramped up, rawer Blues Rock sound in their too short set, so are well worth checking out on tour. With not only Lindsay Bonnick, the flame haired front woman warmly engaging with the audience, Donna Peters also gets a shout out from me, as she is such an excellent drummer, and not just because she is a female in a male dominated drum kit world! Not forgetting of course Ed "The Shred" Clarke on lead and bassist Billy Dedman, who are both such good guitarists, as this quartet's tight set ably set the scene for FM, whose creative keyboardist Jem Davis also joined them for one number.

It was now time for FM, the real Rock deal, following the release earlier this month, via Frontiers Music Srl, of their latest eleven-track studio album, 'Brotherhood'. Indeed, I was so fortunate to be there, not only to photograph them, but also to witness and hear their so slick Rock and Blues Rock sound. Thank goodness I came to this FM party, as they blew me away with their tight guitar grooves plus the superb added dimension of the aforementioned Rock king of keys!

I loved, just loved Steve Overland’s rich vocal tonality and sound. To me Overland sounds like Springsteen, as well leading on guitar, he makes FM world class. Stage wise Overland is so tall and quasi messianic in pose at times, arms stretched out, giving great vocal vibe to the adoring faithful and newcomers like me. Indeed, when I hung back after the three song photo pit rule, I stayed to the side of the stage along with the audience and listened so intently to FM’s sharp, enjoyable set.

Song after song poured out. With a fifteen studio album history and a brilliant catalogue of compositions their set was astonishing. Overland and Davis, were complemented by the outstanding Merv Goldsworthy on bass, the brilliant Jim Kirkpatrick on guitar and the super decent Pete Jupp on drums. Indeed, FM’s energy and uber tight playing was wonderful to witness. Suffice to say I loved the quintet's set, which was varied in tone, style, and mood, comprising of very meaningful compositions. 'Does it Feel', 'Incredible', 'Dangerous', 'Someday', 'Living', 'Don’t Call It', 'That Girl' and 'Killed By Love', were amongst the golden sounding goodies for me.

To me, FM are up there and more than equal to any big time, big name US band! Shortly due to also tour across Europe, with just two dates left on their fourteen date UK tour this coming weekend in Chester and Southend respectively, make sure you do not miss out on these British Melodic Rock legends.

Review and Photos: Denise Lester