ASIA

Anthemic adult-orientated-rock masquerading as progressive rock - pop-prog if you will - this hugely-successful 1982 release kick-started the now three-decade-long career of the supergroup Asia, a commercially-orientated outfit that featured a virtual dream-team of prog-rock superstars making up the ranks. Featuring John Wetton(King Crimson, Mogul Thrash, Family, UK), Geoff Downes(Yes, Buggles), Steve Howe(Tomorrow, Yes) and Carl Palmer(ELP, Atomic Rooster), a nifty Roger Dean sleeve and aimed squarely at the North American market, 'Asia' is, regrettably, nothing more than a hollow exercise in shameless corporate excess. Gone are the art-rock ambitions and innovative instrumental techniques of the various members former employers, in come emotive pop hooks, big, stadium-sized guitars and precious little to engage the minds of progressive rock fans - just what you need to generate a barrel of cash. And surely that's the point here. Asia aren't trying to win any prizes for artistic ambition or innovation, there trying - and succeeding - to make a hit record. And 'Asia' was exactly that, selling in excess of seven million copies throughout the United States alone, which is not something to be sniffed at. Those who enjoy the likes of Steve Perry-era Journey, Foreigner's earlier releases and the big choruses of Boston and Styx should feel right at home then. However, those who enjoy the finer aspects of progressive music are warned to stay well clear. STEFAN TURNER, STOKE NEWINGTON, 2012