Photo Credit: David Weaver
Atlanta’s Fozzy formed in 1999 by lead singer Chris Jericho who is widely known as one of the most recognizable figures in wrestling and guitarist Rich Ward. The band is signed to Century Media Records and has released two studio albums through this label. The band’s current lineup consists of Chris Jericho, Rich Ward, Frank Fontsere, Billy Grey and Paul Di Leo. Jericho has characterized the band by saying, “If Metallica and Journey had a bastard child, it would be Fozzy.” Originally started as a cover band, Fozzy produced their self-titled debut album, and it featured mostly covers of bands such as Dio, Krokus, Twisted Sister, Iron Maiden, Mötley Crüe and Judas Priest. In 2005 they released “All That Remains” which included all original content. As of now the band has released 7 studio albums and one live album. Their newest album “Judas” is probably one of the best albums the band has released. The title track “Judas” is not only a hard rocking single but the video is by far one of the most entertaining videos I have seen in quite some time. Fozzy has dates scheduled on tour from now until the end of April and also a couple already booked over the summer in July and August.
This week on Talk Toomey: The Metal Nexus Podcast host Joshua Toomey welcomes Stuck Mojo and Fozzy drummer Frank Fontsere. Franks is one of rock and metals most respected drummers among his colleagues. In the podcast during Nonpoint drummer Robb Rivera’s pick of the week he talks about how new drummer should listen to Frank and really take notes, which is a huge compliment coming from a well accomplished drummer like Robb. Frank talks about the views and streams and how successful “Judas” has been. Frank talks about how their attendance has double since the album released and also stated “We didn’t always have the strongest following in the U.S.” He also mentions that When people heard them on the radio “They were shocked when they found out is was Fozzy.” It was also a battle of what the first single was going to be from the album. Frank mentions that Jericho had an intuition that “Judas” should be the first single and the label wanted a different track, but Jericho fought for his choice and everything worked out perfectly. Frank also talks about people complimenting his drumming. He also talks about his time in Primer 55 when he played with Toomey and the chemistry they had. Frank also talks about his bandmates in Fozzy and the fun that they have performing and creating music. You can hear the entire interview below.
