Focus

Focus is a Dutch progressive rock group from Amsterdam, formed in 1969. The band is built around keyboardist, vocalist and flautist Thijs van Leer and guitarist Jan Akkerman, who join drummer Hans Cleuver and bassist Martijn Dresden in the original line-up. Their music spans progressive rock, art rock, jazz rock, jazz fusion and classic rock.

Early years and breakthrough

After Akkerman joins Van Leer’s rock trio in late 1969, the group takes the name Focus and works on a Dutch production of the rock musical Hair. Their first album, Focus Plays Focus (also known as In and Out of Focus), appears in 1970 and receives little attention. The follow-up, Moving Waves in 1971, brings wider recognition, led by the single “Hocus Pocus”. The success continues with Focus 3 in 1972, which includes “Sylvia”, and Hamburger Concerto in 1974.

Line-up changes and later history

Focus goes through many line-up changes over the years. After recording two albums with various musicians, including guitarist Philip Catherine, singer P.J. Proby, and drummers Colin Allen, David Kemper and Steve Smith, the group dissolves in 1978. It briefly reunites in 1990 and 1997. Van Leer reforms Focus in 2002, with Pierre van der Linden rejoining in 2004. By December 2016, the band consists of Van Leer, van der Linden, guitarist Menno Gootjes and bassist Udo Pannekeet.

Albums and continuing activity

The later studio albums Focus 8 (2002), Focus 9 / New Skin (2006) and Focus X (2012) are well received. The discography also includes Focus 8.5 / Beyond the Horizon (2016), Focus 11 (2018) and Focus 12 (2024). The group continues to perform worldwide and is credited with one million RIAA-certified album sales in the United States.

Notable status

Focus remains one of the best-known and most influential rock groups from the Netherlands, with a catalogue that has helped define Dutch progressive rock.