This acoustic set proved to be one of the liveliest I've heard from a band I've religiously followed for the better part of 10 years. The track list had a few surprises in store - the biggest being the seldom-played and underrated Vasebeslote Korporasie (deel 1) - one of my favourites off "Swanesang". In the venue's confined space, Francois uncharacteristically stayed seated for most of the gig. But this intimate atmosphere reminded me of Fokof's early gigs and, as a fan, I'm happy to say not much has changed.
While some of the band members are visibly older - Hunter, Francois and Snake are now on the, erm, heavier side - and all are now spoken for, the years have been incredibly kind to both Wynand and Johnny (does that man ever age?) But the passing of years hasn't damaged their unity as a band or their ability to bust out old faithfuls like Ek Skyn(Heilig), the beautiful Hemel op die Platteland and the more upbeat Dagdronk. The energy emanating from the "stage" was overwhelming, though at times the enthralled audience-sing-along overpowered the music. That said, Francois' ability to catch the eye of every audience member and sing a line just for that person hasn't waned - one of the many reasons he makes my top-three SA front men list.
As the gig drew to a close with the inevitable Fokofpolisiekar and the surprise Tiny Town, one couldn't help but feel that this performance marked the end of an era and that Fokof have something new and exciting on the horizon. I'll be watching @Fokofband closely for new gig listings.
