The Norwegian supergroup Soft Ffog, who first caught our attention with their outstanding self-titled debut in 2022—positively reviewed in our pages [here]—return with a new studio album. Titled “Focus,” it was released on May 02, 2025, via Is It Jazz? Records, and features four epic instrumental tracks, each ranging between over eight and ten minutes in duration. Opening track “Camel” sets the tone with a solid, technically intricate sound, led by remarkable guitar work and a tight, sophisticated rhythm section. Right from the first notes, the band plunges the listener into a refined blend of Jazz Rock/Fusion and Progressive Rock, skillfully merging classic influences with a modern, personal touch. The piece develops its core theme through a constant interplay of shifting time signatures and a dynamic, groove-laden rhythmic drive. Guitar and keyboards take turns delivering expressive solos, rich in fusion nuances and melodic invention. “Pocus” ventures further into ‘70s-inspired soundscapes, interweaving Fusion and Jazz Rock elements across its expansive instrumental development. The urgent pace of the rhythm section propels the track forward, with tempo changes adding tension and flair. The guitar delivers a prolonged and virtuosic solo, followed by an equally intricate keyboard solo filled with technical and Avant-Garde elements, pushing the piece into more Experimental territory while retaining coherence and direction. The title-track “Focus” explores the more Progressive side of the band’s identity, drawing subtle inspiration from the Canterbury Scene while presenting a fresh, modern interpretation of those iconic atmospheres. Synths enrich the sonic texture, while Jazzy elements blend seamlessly with airier, progressive tones. Guitar and keyboard lines are elegantly woven, and the intensity remains high throughout. The stylistic choices made by the band elevate the composition to another level, balancing technical brilliance with emotional engagement. Through its extended solo sections, the track circles back to a more virtuosic and precise sound, keeping the listener thoroughly engaged. Closing the album, “Oh Jimi” is the longest track, clocking in at over ten minutes. It begins with an energetic and distinctly Prog-driven section, featuring strong guitar riffs and lush keyboard arrangements, before evolving into a more elaborate theme that incorporates the band’s signature stylistic blend. It’s a dynamic and captivating piece that showcases both compositional depth and instrumental mastery. In its second half, the track opens up and revisits Canterbury-inspired textures, with guitar and keyboard engaging in an intricate and expressive duet. Constantly shifting and developing, the piece closes the album on a high note, rich in musical interplay and stylistic nuance. “Focus” is a triumphant return that highlights the technical prowess of these musicians, reaffirming the strengths heard both in their debut and in their other musical ventures. The album features an uncompromising tracklist: four long instrumental compositions filled with intertwining solos, particularly from guitar and keyboards, anchored by a solid and articulate rhythm section. The band gives ample space to solo development and Jazz Fusion experimentation, with nods to the more sophisticated side of the Canterbury tradition. A highly recommended listen for fans of instrumental Jazz Rock/Fusion, extended solo sections, and Progressive atmospheres—just sit back, press play, and enjoy over 40 minutes of remarkable musicianship.
Tracklist
01. Camel (09:11)
02. Pocus (08:30)
03. Focus (08:40)
04. Oh Jimi (10:17)
Lineup
Tom Hasslan (Krokofant) / Guitars
Axel Skalstad (Krokofant) / Drums
Trond Frønes (Red Kite, Grand General) / Bass
Vegard Lien Bjerkan (WIZRD) / Keyboards