Focus When Focus first broke on the International scene in 1972 rock music had been largely dominated by British and American bands. Although Holland had long been one of the European countries to produce a thriving rock scene, nobody really expected that a band would emerge which could successfully compete with the most powerful names of the day, and introduce a unique, original and incredibly successful brand of progressive rock into the bargain.

But Focus did more than bargain for a place in the sun. They swept to immediate popularity, particularly in Britain where the artistry of Jan Akkerman and Thijs Van Leer in particular, was welcomed with open arms by fans who didn't care where they came from as long as they kept on playing.

a camera searching for Focus It wasn't long before Focus were voted Brightest Hopes, in the Melody Maker Poll of 1972, and the following year Jan Akkerman was voted top guitarist. Then came the conquest of America, where albums like "Moving Waves" and "Focus III" and singles "Sylvia" and "Hocus Pocus" hit the charts.

Focus are intense, creative and highly intelligent men, with a background of study and varied interests in European classical music, Old English music (especially featuring the lute) as well as art and languages. When they first came to Britain Jan in particular was on his guard, determined not to be dragged into the rock machine. But success has mellowed them and they are probably happier now than at any time in their career.

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This rare Focus 1976 UK Tour Program was kindly sent by Chuck Cobb

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