ASTRA

It is a bit unfair to review Asia abums as if they were a truly progressive band. It may not be the case, but that doesn't mean that the music is not good. This third album from the band is very underated. Maybe the fact that Steve Howe was no longer there did not please certain fans/critics, but it is my opinion that "Astra" is much stronger than the over-produced "Alpha" and at least on par with the first album. This is Asia with a metal edge. Mandy Meyer provides very good guitar parts, somewhat similar to what Al Pitrelli would produce some years later on "Aqua and "Aria". The album has a very good balance between guitar and keyboards and the result is powerful. The songs are strong with highlights being "Go", "Voice of America", the symphonic "Rock'n Roll Dream" and "After the War". Highly recommended.