FOCUS II [AKA: MOVING WAVES]

For sure, this is Focus' very best album. There are absolutely NO weak tracks here, and the piece "Eruption" that fills the complete Side Two of the LP, contains some very beautiful classical composition and excellent guitar- and drum-solo's. Akkerman and van der Linden are the true masters here, although Thijs van Leer is the leader of the band and writes most of the music. The playing is outstanding, the music really swings and grooves like (****) !! Of course, classic Hocus Pocus opens the album, but I always thought the U.S. Single Version, which was recorded with the next line-up (with Bert Veldkamp on bass-guitar) is more powerful and compact. Le Clochard is a nice acoustic piece, and Janis contains a nice melody on flute (note the great drums here too!). Focus II, to me, is the most beautiful and compact track Focus ever wrote and played. Just 4 minutes of stunning variety, lovely melodies and emotional playing. To return to the 20-minute piece Eruption, it's pure magic and a great listening-experience. Moving Waves (originally called simply "Focus II" and nicer cover-art) is a masterpiece of progressive music. No weak tracks and Focus' artistically highest achievement. Check it out!