Is Focus II a good place to start with Focus?

Yes, Focus II is recommended as a starting point for new Focus listeners. A vibrant fusion of progressive rock and jazz, highlighted by virtuosic musicianship and eclectic song structures. Released on October 1, 1971, Focus II was the band's second studio album, following their debut album, In and Out of Focus. At this point in their career, Focus was gaining international recognition, particularly with the success of their hit single 'Hocus Pocus'. This album solidified their reputation as a leading force in the progressive rock scene.

Focus II works well if you're into wave-like pacing with climaxes, virtuosic musicianship on display and dynamic progression throughout album.

How many songs are on Focus II?

Focus II has 6 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Released 55 years ago this October

Focus II

Focus · 1971

41 min · 6 tracks · progressive rock

A vibrant fusion of progressive rock and jazz, highlighted by virtuosic musicianship and eclectic song structures.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Hocus Pocus Start here — This track stands out for its explosive blend of yodeling vocals and frenetic guitar riffs, capturing the band’s unique sound and energy.
→
Eruption — Spanning over 23 minutes, this epic track serves as a showcase for the band's technical prowess and improvisational abilities, making it a cornerstone of their live performances.
→
Le Clochard — With its brief yet impactful composition, this track offers a reflective contrast to the more elaborate pieces on the album, demonstrating Focus's range.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

61 /100

Treeline

Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

Focus II blends progressive rock with jazz elements, featuring strong compositions and distinct tracks.

What we noticed

The album opens with 'Hocus Pocus', which features yodeling and a driving rhythm, immediately establishing its energetic tone.
'Eruption' serves as an extended improvisational piece, lasting over 10 minutes, allowing for dynamic shifts in tempo and mood.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

wave-like pacing with climaxes
virtuosic musicianship on display
dynamic progression throughout album
playful energy for active listening

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
avoid lengthy instrumental passages

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album helped establish Focus's international recognition and showcased their experimental sound.
Career context: Released on October 1, 1971, Focus II was the band's second studio album, following their debut album, In and Out of Focus. At this point in their career, Focus was gaining international recognition, particularly with the success of their hit single 'Hocus Pocus'. This album solidified their reputation as a leading force in the progressive rock scene.
Stylistic neighbors: Gentle Giant· King Crimson· Van der Graaf Generator