The current lineup is a powerhouse of talent: founder and composer Thijs van Leer on flute and organ, Menno Gootjes on guitar, Udo Pannekeet on bass, and, of course, Pierre van der Linden himself, whose drumming defined the band’s classic 1970s albums Focus II (Moving Waves) and Focus 3. Though he rejoined over two decades ago, his presence remains as vital as ever.

Billed as the Focus 12 tour, the setlist (un)surprisingly omitted any tracks from their latest album. Instead, the band delivered the same tried-and-true repertoire they’ve perfected over years of performances. For fans of their newer work, this might feel like a missed opportunity. Yet, it’s hard to fault them for leaning into the classics: songs like their breakthrough hit House of the King, the sprawling epic Eruption, and the unavoidable crowd-pleasers Sylvia and Hocus Pocus, which closed the first and second sets, respectively. These are the tracks that built their legacy, and hearing them live is a reminder of why they endure.

Three things become immediately clear at a Focus concert:

First, their performance is flawless: a masterclass in passion, virtuosity, and inspiration. Second, the band radiates pure joy in playing this music, night after night, decade after decade. And third, the sound (both onstage and in the room) is nothing short of spectacular, a testament to the expertise of their sound engineer, Geert “Geraldo” Scheijgrond.

Focus’ music is a seamless fusion of medieval and Renaissance influences with rock, jazz, and blues. Van Leer’s Hammond organ chords, layered with his vocal harmonizer, create a hypnotic introduction to Focus I and Hocus Pocus. Gootjes’ guitar work is nothing short of brilliant: adding his own signature touch while staying true to the original melodies and nuances. His solos in Focus 7 and the haunting ballad La Cathédrale de Strasbourg (from their acclaimed 1974 album Hamburger Concerto) were standout moments.