Recorded in 1998, "Focused" captures Cobham leading a diverse ensemble through compositions that balance intricate arrangements with raw, improvisational energy. The album leans into funk and rock influences, showcasing Cobham's signature polyrhythmic drumming and dynamic playing.
- The album was recorded at Cobham's own "One Studio" in California, with Cobham himself handling production duties. Guest musicians on the album include keyboardist Tom Coster and guitarist Dean Brown, both long-time collaborators. "Focused" features a cover of the Average White Band's "Cut the Cake," reinterpreted in Cobham's signature fusion style.
- The album was released in February 1999, and while it did not chart on the Billboard 200, it received positive reviews within the jazz fusion community. earMUSIC Classics is a label known for its roster of contemporary jazz and classical artists.
- The album's runtime is just under 50 minutes, divided into 9 tracks. The closing track, "The Storm," runs for over 10 minutes and serves as a showcase for extended improvisation.
Billy Cobham is a grammy-nominated jazz fusion drummer from Panama City, Panama, best known for his work with Mahavishnu Orchestra and Miles Davis. Cobham's 1999 release "Focused" was his first for the earMUSIC Classics label, a period which saw him further exploring his established blend of jazz, funk, and rock.
Tracklist
