FOCUS - SHIP OF MEMORIES 12" LP ALBUM VINYL

In the wake of their commercial breakthrough, Focus released "Ship of Memories" in 1976, a compilation album showcasing previously unreleased material and rarities. It offered a glimpse into the band's creative process and their willingness to experiment beyond the confines of their studio albums.

Historical Context

By the mid-70s, Focus had solidified their position as one of the leading progressive rock bands, known for their virtuosic musicianship and eclectic sound. "Ship of Memories" arrived at a time when the band was transitioning between lineups and exploring new musical directions.

Musical Exploration

The album is a treasure trove of musical ideas, ranging from early demos to alternative takes of well-known songs. It showcases the band's versatility, with tracks like the energetic "P's March" and the ethereal "Glider" highlighting their instrumental prowess.

The album also features more experimental pieces like "Out of Vesuvius" and "Spoke the Lord Creator," which incorporate elements of jazz, classical, and world music. These tracks demonstrate the band's willingness to push boundaries and venture into uncharted musical territory.

Controversies

The release of "Ship of Memories" was met with mixed reactions from fans and critics alike. Some praised the album for its diversity and insight into the band's creative process, while others criticized it for its lack of cohesion and the inclusion of unfinished material.

The album's title and cover art, featuring a ship sailing into a stormy sea, were also seen as symbolic of the band's turbulent period and the challenges they faced during this time.

Production Team and Studio

The tracks on "Ship of Memories" were recorded at various studios throughout the band's career, including Morgan Studios in London and Chipping Norton Recording Studios in Oxfordshire. The album was produced by Mike Vernon, who had previously worked with artists like Fleetwood Mac and John Mayall & the Bluesbreakers.

Musicians

The album features the classic Focus lineup of Thijs van Leer (vocals, flute, keyboards), Jan Akkerman (guitar), Bert Ruiter (bass), and Pierre van der Linden (drums). Their musical chemistry and individual talents are evident throughout the album, even in its more experimental moments.