There didn’t seem to be a lot in common between Melanie and Jan Akkerman – apart from the letters “S” and “F” present in the former’s last name, Safka, and name of the latter’s erstwhile ensemble, FOCUS – yet on May 24th, 1988 the two legends found themselves not only share the stage but actually perform together, the Dutch guitarist weaving his magic into the American songstress’ numbers. Fortunately, this unique collaboration, which took place in Leiden, Holland, during a music festival, was captured on a professional recording, and is set to see the release as “In Focus: Live ’88” on October 18th.
Of course, that night included the airing of such classics as “Beautiful People” and “Lay Down (Candles in the Rain)” which opened and closed the concert – only there also were a few pieces from Melanie’s then-fresh album “Cowabonga” and a few other tracks from her ’80s platters, all laced with Jan’s strings and peppered with Raul Rekow’s percussion, so the newly uncovered offering feels interesting.
In Focus: Live ’88
1. Beautiful People
2. Chosen Few
3. What Have They Done To The Rain
4. Bon Appétit
5. Jan Akkerman and Raul Rekow instrumental
6. Every Breath Of The Way
7. Working Legend
8. Loving The Boy Next Door
9. Just Can’t Do It
10. Together Alone
11. Private Parts
12. Prematurely Grey
13. What Have They Done To My Song, Ma
14. Tuning My Guitar
15. Lay Down (Candles In The Rain)
