|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
A SoundPress.net CD Review
And now we find ourselves in 2012. Or, thirty years after the generation's first heralded supergroup ASIA made their debut with their highly anticipated self-titled release. Now, to celebrate and mark the occasion ASIA has returned with the appropriately titled XXX. The nine tracks on the album break down nicely to offer three songs for each decade of the band's existence. Or, more accurately - three songs for each era of the band. ASIA launched in 1982 and on the strength of their first album along with the help of the newly minted MTV the group soon gained worldwide superstar status. The original four members - John Wetton, Steve Howe, Carl Palmer and Geoff Downes - were able to hold things together for another album, Alpha - but the first incarnation of the band soon imploded thereafter. The album opens with some characteristic keyboard chords that merge with bass and guitar for a plaintive intro before exploding full band into the optimistic and hopeful "Tomorrow the World" that turns on poetic phrasing and a nod to the group's early hit, "Don't Cry" - the first of several hidden allusions to the vast recorded history of ASIA on the CD. This bold anthem features high-powered harmonies and gets the record spinning in a good direction. "Bury Me in Willow" ensues with a tale of impending mortality as we follow the singer on his last day on earth. The chilling chorus stands as his last will and testament as the song descends into a sonically driven funeral dirge. "No Religion" is a spirited look at faith and the futility of regimented dogma through the eyes of an agnostic. Following the first two albums ASIA became populated with an ever-changing lineup characterized by a revolving door of musicians. Carrying the banner for the group in this middle period was keyboardist Geoff Downes who is the only member to appear on every release by ASIA proper. On XXX the song-writing is dominated by the longtime Wetton/Downes partnership. "Faithful" is a vow of love and fidelity featuring a searing lead from longtime YES guitarist, Steve Howe. "I Know How You Feel" moves along on Downe's keyboard punctuation and some nylon nuance. "Face On The Bridge" spans the gap from debut to present with solid support from Wetton on bass and his strongest vocal performance on the record. ASIA retook a hold of their band and their brand when they decided to regroup for their 25th anniversary back in 2006. A successful world tour reintroduced them to an adoring fan base and they've been on the road consistently since then. They've also returned to the studio for Phoenix in 2008 followed by the Alpha follow-up, Omega in 2010. "Al Gatto Nero" is the closest thing to a sing along on the new album and is sure to be a winner in the live setting with the "I'm feeling good" hook from the chorus. "Judas" is a rockin' take on betrayal with a stabbing keyboard lick and an obsequious Howetro. "Ghost Of A Chance" is a plaintive story of survival and overcoming against all odds with a haunting guitar solo to wrap up the proceedings. All the elements that ASIA has perfected and manufactured through the years are here on XXX in abundance. High quality production with a good mix bolstered by accomplished musicianship and well-placed supporting background vocals leave a lasting impression just as the band has done over their three decade career. Now, thirty years after their inception something that only time could tell has been revealed. ASIA is a modern rock band with a flair for the dramatic that has truly stood the test of time. • Info: -- UK: www.originalasia.com (Richard J. Lynch/SoundPress.net) |
|
|
|
|
|
Kweevak.com | Music Community | Music Products | Press Releases | Radio Show | Search Site Send Music | SP Blog | Sponsors Page | Sponsor Us | Venue Directory | Win Prizes
industry advertising, and related business inquiries at: PHONE: 973.556.5400|E-MAIL Monday - Friday / 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST in the USA!
© 2013 SoundPress.net | All Rights Reserved
|
