Focus – Focus 11

Label: In And Out Of Focus
Releasedate: 31-01-2019

Everywhere we go in this world to see some concert at some point you come across that guy that tells you the most famous Dutch musicians are Focus. Not Within Temptation, Epica, Golden Earring, Kayak or some sort of DJ.. no, Focus it is. Sure with so many year on the counter it is no wonder they left their impression everywhere. Us being a fan of their Guitarist Menno Gootjes from the moment he was still playing with local hero Nine Volt, means we were blessed with the latest of Focus in our hands. “Focus 11” is available now.

It is, as you expect, album number 11 for the guys. Some Uk fans were able to get their hands on it early but now the proggers have released it further. It starts with a remake of “Who’s Calling” which sets the tone for the album. The band has some playful tracks to give. A lot of organ which keeps you with the classic touch, taking that organ sound as the foreground they lead it into feel good release. Quite different is the track “Winnie” which makes you gloom when Menno works his magic. It is such a calm, dark and sad track.

Right after than the tempo gets back into it and it is time for some swinging. As always the flute is one of those instruments that gives Focus its special touch and with this release it is not any different. Thijs skillfully incorperate it with the music, not having it on overdose but purely harvesting the fruits of it.

The rest of the tracks don’t break with the set trend. Focus is giving us some lowely 70’s feel prog. The album lives up to expectations and for those who have not tried this band it may be the perfect introduction to their music.

Line up:

• Thijs van Leer – Piano, organ, vocals, flute and synths
• Menno Gootjes – Guitars
• Pierre van der Linden – Drums
• Udo Pannekeet – Bass

1. Who’s Calling?
2. Heaven
3. Theodora Na Na Na
4. How Many Miles?
5. Mazzel
6. Winnie
7. Palindrome
8. Clair-Obscur
9. Mare Nostrum
10. Final Analysis
11. Focus 11

Links:

Official