Out Of Focus

Introduction to Out Of Focus

Out Of Focus is a German ensemble that explores the realms of jazz-rock, progressive rock, and Krautrock. Their third studio album, titled Four Letter Monday Afternoon, was released in 1972 by the Kuckuck label. This ambitious double LP reflects the band’s commitment to complex arrangements and improvisation.

Recording Details

The album was recorded in July 1972 at Bavaria Studio in Munich. It features the band’s core members: Remigius Drechsler on guitars, sax, flute, and stylophone; Moran Neumüller on vocals and soprano sax; Hennes Hering on organ and piano; Stephan Wisheu on bass; and Klaus Spöri on drums. The album also includes an expanded lineup with a brass section consisting of Hermann Breuer on trombone, Jimmy Polivka on trumpet, and Ingo Schmid-Neuhaus on baritone and alto saxophones. Additionally, Michael Thatcher plays a second organ, Peter Dechant contributes guitar, and Grand Roman Langhans adds percussion with bongos.

Musical Composition

Four Letter Monday Afternoon spans four sides of vinyl, offering a blend of progressive jazz-rock and Krautrock. The first record includes the 17-minute suite "L.S.B.", followed by "Tsajama", "Black Cards", and "Where Have You Been". The second record features the substantial 45-minute conceptual suite "Huchen 55", divided into parts A, B, C, and D across sides C and D. The music is characterized by modal improvisations and intricate brass arrangements, showcasing the band’s technical abilities and creative freedom.

Production Credits

The album was produced, arranged, and composed by Out Of Focus themselves. The engineering work was handled by Wolfgang Löper, contributing to the distinctive sound of the recording. This collaborative effort highlights the band's approach to blending various genres and influences into a cohesive body of work.

Release Format

Four Letter Monday Afternoon was released as a 2xLP vinyl album, catalog number 2375 017/018. The release encapsulates the diverse musical landscape of early 1970s Germany, emphasizing the experimental nature of the Krautrock movement.