Focus - Focus 3 (1972) | CLOCKWORK PEACH

Label: Imperial
Country: Netherlands
Released: 1972
Format: Vinyl,LP,Album

About Focus 3

Focus 3 is the third studio album by the Dutch band Focus, released in November 1972 on the Imperial label. This album is notable for being a double LP, a format that allowed the band to explore their musical range more extensively. Recorded in July 1972 at Olympic "B" Studios in Barnes, London, the album was produced by Mike Vernon and engineered by George Chkiantz.

Lineup Changes and Contributions

This album marks the first appearance of bassist Bert Ruiter, who joined the band after the touring cycle for their previous album, "Moving Waves." The lineup also includes Thijs van Leer, who plays flute, organ, harpsichord, piano, and provides vocals. Jan Akkerman, the band's guitarist, contributed significantly to the album’s sound, particularly on the track "Sylvia." This piece had a history predating the band itself, as van Leer originally composed it with lyrics before Focus was formed. For Focus 3, the band transformed "Sylvia" into an instrumental electric guitar piece, showcasing Akkerman's skills.

Track Highlights

Focus 3 features a blend of rock and progressive rock elements. The track "Love Remembered," written by Akkerman, offers an introspective sound that complements the album's overall diversity. One of the standout tracks, "Answers? Questions! Questions? Answers!" showcases the band's ability to merge complex musical structures with engaging melodies. The two-part "Anonymus II" serves as a substantial centerpiece for the album, illustrating the band's talent for extended compositions.

Commercial Success

"Sylvia" was released as a single in April 1972, prior to the album's launch. It became the band's biggest international hit, reaching number 4 on the UK Singles Chart in early 1973 and charting at number 89 on the US Billboard chart that August. This success helped to elevate the band's profile outside of the Netherlands.

Technical Details

The album's production was handled by Mike Vernon, known for his work with various rock and blues acts. The recording process took place in a professional studio, which contributed to the polished sound of the album. Focus 3 spans a total of four sides on the vinyl format, allowing for an extensive listening experience.

Focus 3 was released on November 25, 1972.

Tracklist

A1	Round Goes The Gossip... Written-By – Thijs Van Leer
A2	Love Remembered Written-By – Jan Akkerman
A3	Sylvia Written-By – Thijs Van Leer
A4	Carnival Fugue Written-By – Thijs Van Leer
B1	Focus III Written-By – Thijs Van Leer
B2	Answers? Questions! Questions? Answers! Written-By – Bert RuiterWritten-By – Jan Akkerman
C1	Anonymus II (Part 1) Written-By – Bert RuiterWritten-By – Jan AkkermanWritten-By – Pierre Van Der LindenWritten-By – Thijs Van Leer
D1	Anonymus II (Conclusion) Written-By – Bert RuiterWritten-By – Jan AkkermanWritten-By – Pierre Van Der LindenWritten-By – Thijs Van Leer
D2	Elspeth Of Nottingham Written-By – Jan Akkerman
D3	House Of The King Written-By – Jan Akkerman

Credits

Bass Guitar – Bert Ruiter
Drums – Pierre Van Der Linden
Producer – Mike Vernon
Recorded By – George Chkiantz
Soloist, Acoustic Guitar – Jan Akkerman
Vocals, Organ, Piano, Alto Flute, Piccolo Flute, Harpsichord – Thijs Van Leer