FOCUS II [AKA: MOVING WAVES]

One of the most dynamic prog rock bands ever,the Dutch quartet FOCUS was formed in 1970 by keyboardist/flutist/vocalist/composer Thijs Van Leer.A few months later their debut ''In and out of focus'' was released,containing both vocal and instrumental tracks with a variety of styles,including psych,hard rock,light symphonic,classic rock and others.After a couple of line-up changes,FOCUS seemed to find their own sound in ''Moving waves'',their sophomore record published in 1972.The opener ''Hocus pocus'' seems like it had escaped from the previous album,a fast energetic and humurous vocal track...but the rest of the album is the absolute symphonic/jazz killer with superb,totally instrumental work.Their sound is half split between the classical-influenced piano/organ and flute passages of Van Leer and the jazzy guitars of mastermind guitarist Jan Akkermann.Great interplays,fantastic alternating tempos and endless changing themes,emotions blended with jamming...I really can't describe how much I admire this FOCUS' work.By my side,''Moving waves'' comes extremely highly recommended!