ASTRA

"Astra" is one of Asia's best offerings, with a number of excellent tracks, and a generally more progressive feel than their early output.

"Go" is a fine opener, which finds the band immediately turning the amps up to full, and creating the wall of sound which features on most of the subsequent tracks. "Voice of America" has an anthem feel with lush harmonies and deep vocals giving it real power. "Wishing", a power ballad, has a similar structure, but an even stronger melody and a real hook to the chorus.

"Rock and Roll dream" astonishingly increases the power even further, with swirling orchestration, deep harmonies, and a highly infectious chorus. There's a tension and excitement to the track which Asia exploit to the full, as it builds to its climactic conclusion. Coincidently, there is a passing resemblance to Jim Steinman's (Meatloaf) "Rock and roll dreams come through".

These then are the standout tracks. The remainder are more orthodox offerings from the band, but the album as a whole is excellent, combining immense power with strong melodies, and tight performance. My only criticism is in the sound quality, which is extremely poor. This is addressed to some extent by the version of the album which is included in the double CD "Anthologia" set.

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