Focus men launch improv album

Three members and one former member of Focus have worked together to launch a double instrumental album under the band name Swung.

The first volume features bassist and producer Bobby Jacobs and drummer Pierre van der Linden plus ex-guitarist Niels van der Steenhoven. The second sees the rhythm section team up with current guitarist Menno Gootjes.

Jacobs says: “These are studio versions of all the fun we have during our Focus sound checks – often before Father Focus, Thijs van Leer, arrives. We always start to play from zero, and is is what happens.”

The first self-titled album was released as a tour-only title, while the second part is brand new. The later lineup are opening for Focus on their current UK tour dates.

Swung is available as a double title via Amazon and via iTunes as Volume 1 and Volume 2.

Remaining UK tour dates

Nov 19: Kinross Green Hotel

Nov 20: Glasgow Ferry

Nov 21: Hull Fruit

Nov 22: Sheffield Corporation

Nov 23: Liverpool Cavern Club

Nov 24: Swansea Scene

Nov 25: York Duchess

Nov 26: Sale Waterside

Nov 27: Leamington Spa Assembly

Nov 28: Lowdham Village Hall

Nov 29: Devizes Long Street Blues

Nov 30: Ilminster Square & Compass

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Not only is one-time online news editor Martin an established rock journalist and drummer, but he’s also penned several books on music history, including SAHB Story: The Tale of the Sensational Alex Harvey Band, a band he once managed, and the best-selling Apollo Memories about the history of the legendary and infamous Glasgow Apollo. Martin has written for Classic Rock and Prog and at one time had written more articles for Louder than anyone else (we think he's second now). He’s appeared on TV and when not delving intro all things music, can be found travelling along the UK’s vast canal network.