Watch Focus - Live in America

Focus - Live in America is a concert film that captures the iconic Dutch progressive rock band in their prime. Directed by Tony Palmer, the film was released in 1973 and documents the band's 1972 tour of the United States, during which they played to sold-out crowds in major cities like New York, Philadelphia, and Chicago. The film opens with a soaring instrumental track that showcases the band's technical prowess and sets the tone for the rest of the concert. The camera follows the quartet as they take the stage, with each member getting their moment in the spotlight. The band is dressed in flamboyant stage costumes, with guitarist Jan Akkerman sporting a bright red jumpsuit and bassist Bert Ruiter in a purple velvet suit.

The first song of the setlist is "Focus II", a complex, multi-part composition that demonstrates the band's mastery of intricate time signatures and musical arrangements. Throughout the song, the camera cuts between close-ups of each band member, highlighting their individual contributions to the piece. Akkerman's guitar solos are particularly impressive, showcasing his speed and dexterity on the instrument.

The band then launches into "Eruption", a driving instrumental track that features a show-stopping drum solo by Pierre van der Linden. The camera captures every nuance of van der Linden's playing, from his lightning-fast stick work to his subtle use of cymbals and hi-hats.

Next up is "Tommy", a ballad that features lead singer Thijs Van Leer on vocals and flute. Van Leer's ethereal vocals float over a bed of acoustic guitar and gentle percussion, creating a tranquil mood that stands in contrast to the bombast of the previous songs.

The band then gets back to their signature sound with "Hocus Pocus", a hard-rocking track that features Akkerman's famous yodeling solo. The camera lingers on Akkerman's face as he performs the solo, capturing the intensity and showmanship that made him one of the most respected guitarists of his generation.

The rest of the concert features more complex compositions and impressive solos, with each band member given ample opportunity to shine. The camera work is dynamic and engaging, with Palmer weaving together shots of the band with footage of the audience rocking out to the music.

Throughout the film, there is a sense of energy and excitement that is palpable. The band's live performance is a testament to their technical proficiency and their ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. Even decades later, watching the film is a thrilling and immersive experience that showcases one of the greatest rock bands of all time at the height of their powers.

In conclusion, Focus - Live in America is a must-watch for any fan of prog rock or guitar-driven music. The film captures the essence of one of the greatest bands of the 70s, and serves as a testament to the talent, skill, and showmanship of Jan Akkerman, Thijs Van Leer, Bert Ruiter, and Pierre van der Linden.