Fortnox (2)

“THE EARLY EIGHTIES were a boom time for hard rock. It seemed like albums were being released by the truckload, many from eager young hopefuls keen to grab a slice of the limelight and advance up the slippery ladder of success. Fortnox were one of the many hopefuls charging out of the starting blocks full of hope and ambition, looking to stamp their mark on a scene that was eager and receptive to new talent. Based in the Southern state of Georgia, Fortnox could be described a storming power trio, led by guitarist/vocalist Rick Fowler, who were signed to industry heavyweight Epic records. In an enterprising move the label hooked them up with up with hot shot British producer Chris Tsangarides (Ozzy Osbourne, Thin Lizzy) who took control of recording the band’s sole album, in Atlanta. The results were remarkably impressive, leaving those who heard the recordings to predict big things for the band. The album received positive reviews but despite extensive touring, playing with the likes of Aerosmith, Cheap Trick and April Wine, support from the label began to dwindle, leaving the band vulnerable to forces beyond their control. Sadly, despite harbouring a number of great songs, such as ‘Lucifer’s Eyes’, ‘On The Prowl’ and ‘Storm Inside My Head’ (a video of which aired on the fledgling MTV) and some radio support, the band’s life support system was slowly withdrawn, leaving them unable to carry on – a real shame as the quality of this record showed enormous potential.”