ALPHA

This was actually my first real introduction to Asia, and while this album has some truly awesome highlights there are some things with it that could have been better. I don't know what they did when mixing this album, but have a hard time imagining a less destint soundscape. This is a bit unfortunate as there are indeed some nice songs here, songs that would have deserved a nicer presentation if you ask me.

Anyway, as always (in the early years) with Asia you'll find very strong melodies here, and tracks like "The Smile Has Left Your Eyes", "My Own Time (I'll Do What I Want)", "The Last To Know" and "True Colours" does make this album well worth buying. Some of the weaker songs also gets quite pleasant due to nice harmony vocals and the actual remains of the sound that was present on the debut album. This turned out to be the last album featuring guitarist Steve Howe in the band line-up, and listening through these old albums now makes it very obvious how much he contributed to the Asia magic.