O My Love, Thijs Van Leer

1 in stock
$70.00
Artist - Thijs Van Leer
Format - 12' - Album
Genre - Pop and Jazz
Year - 1975
Country - Netherlands
Grading (record) - Near Mint
Grading (sleeve) - Very Good Plus

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Description

Thijs van Leer is the legendary founding member of the Dutch progressive rock band Focus (most famous for the yodeling rock anthem "Hocus Pocus"). His solo work, specifically this album, leans heavily into jazz fusion, funk, and classical crossover.

The Album: O My Love (1975)

Recorded in Los Angeles at Davlen Sound Studios, this record was a departure from the heavy prog-rock of Focus. Van Leer collaborated with the renowned arranger Paul Buckmaster (who worked with Elton John and David Bowie) to create a sound that was "hip and funky" rather than strictly classical.

  • The Vibe: It is a sophisticated blend of Jazz-Funk and Progressive Pop. You'll hear plenty of van Leer’s signature virtuosic flute playing, Fender Rhodes electric piano, and lush synthesizers.

  • The Family Connection: The album features vocals from his first wife, Roselie van Leer. She also co-wrote several tracks, including the title song "O My Love."

  • The Musicians: The album features top-tier session players, including Wilton Felder (of The Crusaders) on bass and James Gadson on drums, giving it a very polished, "West Coast" groove.

  • Key Tracks to Listen For

    1. "Street Rondo": This is arguably the most famous track on the album. It’s a high-energy fusion piece that has been frequently sampled in hip-hop (notably by Kanye West on "The Joy").

    2. "O My Love": The title track is a softer, more atmospheric piece that highlights the romantic and melodic side of his songwriting.

    3. "Blue Windmill": A great example of the album’s "jazz-funk" identity, featuring tight rhythms and soaring flute lines.

    4. "Peacemaker I, II, & III": A three-part suite that shows off van Leer’s classical roots blended with 70s fusion.
Click for Grading Scale

MINT - sealed

NM - likely never played - almost perfect

VG+ - light scuffs, light scratches wont effect play

VG -  signs of wear, light scratches you can feel

GOOD -  surface noise, visible groove wear

POOR / FAIR- some damage, causing issues like skipping & distorted audio

OIS - original inner sleeve
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