Album Info
| Artist: | Focus |
| Album: | Focus12 |
| Released: | Europe, 5 Jul 2024 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Fjord Focus | 4:26 |
| A2 | Focus 13 | 5:12 |
| A3 | Béla | 4:10 |
| A4 | Meta Indefinita | 4:39 |
| Composed By - Menno Gootjes, Pierre Van Der Linden, Thijs Van Leer, Udo Pannekeet | ||
| A5 | All Aboard | 4:34 |
| Composed By - Udo Pannekeet | ||
| B1 | Born To Be You | 1:51 |
| Composed By - Menno Gootjes | ||
| B2 | Nura | 4:00 |
| B3 | Bowie | 3:27 |
| B4 | Positano | 3:31 |
| B5 | Gaia | 4:18 |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
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Description
Focus, the Dutch progressive rock band known for their virtuosic musicianship and eclectic compositions, released "Focus 12" in 2019. This album marks a continuation of the band's legacy, showcasing their ability to blend rock, jazz, and classical influences into a cohesive and engaging musical experience. "Focus 12" is a testament to the enduring creativity of the band, which has been active since the early 1970s.
The album features a lineup that includes founding member Thijs van Leer on keyboards and flute, along with Menno Gootjes on guitar, Udo Pannekeet on bass, and Pierre van der Linden on drums. This combination of musicians brings a fresh yet familiar sound to the album, maintaining the signature Focus style while exploring new musical territories. The interplay between van Leer's flute and Gootjes' guitar is particularly noteworthy, creating intricate melodies and harmonies that are both complex and accessible.
One of the standout tracks on "Focus 12" is "Who’s Calling?" This piece exemplifies the band's ability to craft dynamic compositions that shift seamlessly between different moods and tempos. The track opens with a haunting flute melody, gradually building into a powerful rock section driven by Gootjes' guitar work. The transitions are smooth and well-executed, showcasing the band's technical prowess and compositional skills.
Another highlight is "Heaven," a track that leans more towards the band's classical influences. The use of piano and flute creates a serene and contemplative atmosphere, offering a contrast to the more energetic pieces on the album. This diversity in sound is one of the strengths of "Focus 12," as it keeps the listener engaged and curious about what will come next.
The album has been well-received by critics and fans alike, who appreciate the band's ability to stay true to their roots while also evolving their sound. "Focus 12" does not attempt to reinvent the wheel but rather refines and expands upon the elements that have made Focus a beloved band in the progressive rock genre. The production quality is high, allowing each instrument to shine and contribute to the overall texture of the music.
In terms of cultural significance, Focus has always been a band that defies easy categorization, and "Focus 12" continues this tradition. The album serves as a reminder of the band's influence on the progressive rock scene, inspiring countless musicians with their innovative approach to music-making. While "Focus 12" may not have garnered major awards, it stands as a solid addition to the band's discography, appreciated by those who value musicianship and creativity.
Overall, "Focus 12" is a compelling album that captures the essence of what makes Focus a unique and enduring band. It is a celebration of their musical journey, offering both nostalgia for long-time fans and a fresh experience for new listeners. The album's blend of rock, jazz, and classical elements is executed with precision and passion, making it a worthy listen for anyone interested in the progressive rock genre.
