Asia's Best Song On Each Of Their Studio Albums

Feature Photo: Andrew F. Kazmierski / Shutterstock.com

Asia, one of the most prominent supergroups in rock history, was formed in 1981, bringing together members from some of the most legendary progressive rock bands of the era. The original lineup featured vocalist and bassist John Wetton (formerly of King Crimson), guitarist Steve Howe (from Yes), keyboardist Geoff Downes (also from Yes and The Buggles), and drummer Carl Palmer (from Emerson, Lake & Palmer). This fusion of talent was nothing short of remarkable, combining their collective experiences in progressive rock and merging it with a more accessible, radio-friendly sound that would dominate the early 1980s.

Their self-titled debut album, Asia, released in 1982, was a commercial triumph, spearheaded by the massive hit single “Heat of the Moment.” The song’s music video became an iconic fixture on MTV, the burgeoning television network that would go on to shape pop culture and music in the 1980s. MTV played a pivotal role in introducing Asia to a wider audience, and “Heat of the Moment” quickly became one of the most recognizable songs of the decade. The album soared to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and solidified Asia’s presence in the rock world, with follow-up hits like “Only Time Will Tell” and “Wildest Dreams” showcasing their powerful blend of melodic rock and progressive elements.

While their first two albums—Asia and 1983’s Alpha—were commercial successes, the band soon faced internal pressures and lineup changes. Steve Howe departed after Alpha, and while the band continued to release albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s, it went through various incarnations. Different musicians, including guitarist Al Pitrelli and vocalist/bassist John Payne, brought new dynamics to the group, but the original lineup remained the heart of Asia’s identity.

Asia’s reunion in 2006 with its original lineup marked a pivotal moment for the band, bringing them back to their progressive rock roots while incorporating a modern sensibility into their music. Over the years, Asia’s ability to evolve while maintaining the melodic foundation of their sound left an indelible mark on rock music. Their progressive origins and supergroup status gave them an undeniable influence, while their MTV-fueled rise ensured they reached mainstream audiences around the world.

This article will explore the best songs from each of Asia’s studio albums, spanning their impressive career. From their chart-topping hits to the deep cuts that defined their ever-evolving sound, we’ll dive into the key tracks that not only showcase their musical talent but also reflect the band’s remarkable journey through the decades.

“Soul Survivor” – Asia (1982)

“Soul Survivor,” from Asia’s 1982 self-titled debut album, represents a pivotal moment not just in the band’s career but in the evolution of their collective songwriting and recording approach. Asia, composed of prog-rock veterans John Wetton (vocals, bass), Steve Howe (guitar), Carl Palmer (drums), and Geoff Downes (keyboards), emerged as a supergroup in the early 1980s, yet their debut marked a sharp departure from the complex, lengthy compositions typical of their previous projects. Released on March 18, 1982, and recorded between June and November 1981 at Townhouse Studios in London, the album was produced by Mike Stone, known for his work with Queen and Journey. Asia became the band’s most successful release, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and going on to sell over 4 million copies in the U.S. alone.

“Soul Survivor” is a prime example of the band’s more concise, radio-friendly approach while still retaining some of their progressive rock roots. Lyrically, the song is filled with imagery of perseverance and inner strength, with lines like “I’m the last man standing” and “I’ll still be here” pointing to the resilience of the protagonist. Musically, the track blends Downes’ signature atmospheric keyboards with Howe’s melodic guitar work, creating a layered sound that feels grand yet accessible. Wetton’s vocal delivery is commanding, his voice conveying both vulnerability and defiance. This more straightforward style of songwriting marked a significant shift for members like Howe and Wetton, who were known for the sprawling, intricate arrangements of their previous bands (Yes and King Crimson, respectively). The decision to streamline their sound to appeal to a broader audience was a bold move, but one that paid off commercially.

The success of “Soul Survivor” as part of Asia highlights this strategic evolution in their music. While the band maintained some progressive elements—particularly in the instrumental sections and time signatures—the song’s structure, running at 4 minutes and 52 seconds, is far more compact and hook-driven than what fans of Howe or Palmer’s previous work might have expected. The track’s tight arrangement helped to solidify the band’s identity within the AOR (album-oriented rock) landscape, making it a staple on rock radio stations in the early 1980s. The album itself spawned two massive hits—“Heat of the Moment” and “Only Time Will Tell”—but “Soul Survivor” remains one of the key deep cuts that displays the band’s shift in style. Its blend of polished production, accessible melodies, and subtle complexity helped Asia top the charts and resonate with a wide audience beyond just progressive rock fans.

In many ways, “Soul Survivor” encapsulates the broader mission of Asia: to take the talent and craftsmanship of four prog-rock icons and distill it into something more radio-friendly without losing the technical proficiency and musical depth that defined their earlier work. This change in direction, driven by Wetton’s desire to craft tighter, more commercially viable songs, proved to be a winning formula. While Asia would never again reach the commercial heights of their debut, “Soul Survivor” remains a powerful testament to the band’s ability to blend prog-rock intricacy with mainstream rock appeal.

“The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” – Alpha

“The Smile Has Left Your Eyes,” released in 1983 on Asia’s sophomore album Alpha, stands as one of the band’s most emotionally charged and introspective tracks. While the album as a whole did not reach the monumental success of their debut, it still performed well commercially, peaking at No. 6 on the Billboard 200 and achieving platinum status. Alpha was recorded at Le Studio in Morin-Heights, Quebec, between 1982 and 1983, with production handled once again by Mike Stone. The band’s lineup remained the same, featuring John Wetton on vocals and bass, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Steve Howe on guitar, and Carl Palmer on drums, but the album signaled a notable shift in their musical direction toward a more pop-oriented sound.

“The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” is a striking ballad that showcases John Wetton’s vocal and songwriting prowess, pairing heart-wrenching lyrics with a lush, cinematic arrangement. The song’s theme centers on the dissolution of a relationship, with Wetton delivering lines like “Now it’s too late, the smile has left your eyes,” evoking a deep sense of loss and regret. Musically, the track begins softly with Downes’ delicate keyboard arrangement, which gradually builds to a powerful crescendo featuring Howe’s soaring guitar work and Palmer’s understated, yet impactful drumming. This progression from quiet introspection to dramatic intensity mirrors the emotional arc of the song’s lyrics, creating a rich, layered experience for the listener.

Critically, “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” stood out as one of the most enduring tracks on Alpha, and it provided a counterpoint to the album’s more upbeat single, “Don’t Cry.” While “Soul Survivor” from the debut album was more anthemic and driven by resilience, this track delves into darker emotional territory, displaying a vulnerability that wasn’t as prominent in the band’s earlier work. Though the album leaned more toward accessible, pop-driven rock, “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” retained some of the intricate arrangements and instrumental interplay that defined the band’s earlier progressive rock roots. However, its emotional weight and ballad form made it stand out in the context of the band’s catalog.

Despite not being released as a major single, the song still garnered radio play and remains a fan favorite, especially for those who appreciate Asia’s more emotional and melodic side. The band’s decision to lean into softer, more radio-friendly elements in Alpha may have contributed to the album’s relative commercial decline compared to their debut, but tracks like “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” solidified Asia’s ability to blend their progressive rock background with the pop sensibilities of the early 1980s. The song remains a poignant reflection of the band’s shift in sound and stands as a key moment in their evolving discography.

“Go” – Astra

“Go,” released in 1985 as the opening track of Asia’s third album Astra, marked a dramatic shift in the band’s sound and lineup. With Mandy Meyer replacing Steve Howe on guitar, Astra showcased a more aggressive, synth-heavy style, reflecting the changing landscape of mid-1980s rock. The album was recorded at The Townhouse Studios in London, with Mike Stone returning as the producer. Though Astra did not achieve the commercial success of the band’s previous albums, peaking at No. 67 on the Billboard 200, “Go” stands out as a powerful, energetic track that encapsulates the band’s evolution.

Musically, “Go” is a dynamic opener, driven by Geoff Downes’ bombastic keyboards and Meyer’s razor-sharp guitar riffs. The song carries a more polished, arena-rock feel compared to previous Asia material, with John Wetton delivering commanding vocals over Carl Palmer’s tight, rhythmic drumming. The chorus, with its insistent repetition of “Go,” pushes the listener forward, mirroring the song’s theme of breaking free and moving ahead. The lyrics, “Don’t look back, you’re not the only one,” reflect themes of empowerment and determination, qualities that are also present in earlier Asia tracks like “Soul Survivor,” though “Go” carries a more urgent, modern edge.

Critically, “Go” highlights the band’s attempt to adapt to the shifting trends of 1980s rock, incorporating heavier synth elements and a more radio-friendly approach. Mandy Meyer’s guitar work is a noticeable departure from Steve Howe’s more intricate, melodic style, offering a harder, more straightforward rock sound. While “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” from Alpha showcased the band’s emotional depth, “Go” turns the focus back to high-energy, motivational rock anthems. The guest appearance of the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra adds a touch of grandeur, reinforcing the song’s larger-than-life production.

Though Astra as a whole struggled commercially, “Go” remains a standout track that captures the spirit of the band’s efforts to evolve their sound. Its powerful production, along with Wetton’s soaring vocals and the bold instrumentation, gives the song a lasting impact within the Asia catalog. While not as commercially successful as earlier singles, “Go” showcases the band’s resilience and adaptability, maintaining the essence of their progressive rock roots while embracing the sounds of mid-80s rock.

“Days Like These” – Then And Now

“Days Like These,” featured on Asia’s Then and Now album released in 1990, stands out as the most compelling of the five new tracks included on the otherwise greatest hits compilation. The song was recorded during sessions at The Townhouse Studios in London, with production overseen by John Kalodner and Frank Wolf. Asia’s lineup for this track remained largely intact, with John Wetton on vocals and bass, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Carl Palmer on drums, and new member Pat Thrall on guitar, stepping in for the departed Steve Howe. Then and Now was not a typical studio album, but rather a retrospective that included five new recordings, with “Days Like These” being the most notable of the new offerings.

Lyrically, “Days Like These” is a feel-good, upbeat anthem celebrating optimism and perseverance. The chorus—“And it feels like these are the best days of our lives”—emphasizes positivity and resilience, delivering a message of hope in the face of adversity. Musically, the song is marked by bright, polished production, combining Downes’ lush keyboards with Thrall’s more mainstream guitar work, resulting in a sound that is more in line with the radio-friendly rock of the late 1980s and early 1990s. The song’s catchy melody and infectious chorus helped it achieve moderate commercial success, reaching No. 64 on the Billboard Hot 100 and receiving significant airplay on rock radio, which was a notable achievement for the band at that stage in their career.

Compared to earlier Asia tracks like “Go” from Astra or “Soul Survivor” from their debut, “Days Like These” leans more heavily into a polished, accessible rock sound, eschewing the band’s progressive roots in favor of a more straightforward, pop-rock approach. However, the song’s infectious energy and optimistic tone set it apart from the more introspective tracks like “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” from Alpha. “Days Like These” also marked a creative resurgence for the band, as it gave them their highest-charting single since the early 1980s, proving that they still had the ability to connect with their audience in a changing musical landscape.

In conclusion, “Days Like These” represents a refreshing shift for Asia in 1990, embodying the band’s adaptability and continued relevance in the rock world. While it may lack the complex arrangements of their earlier work, the song’s vibrant, upbeat tone and memorable hooks make it a standout track among the new material on Then and Now. It demonstrates Asia’s ability to craft engaging, radio-friendly songs while staying true to their melodic sensibilities, ensuring the band’s legacy endured beyond their initial commercial peak.

“Lay Down Your Arms” – Aqua

“Lay Down Your Arms,” released in 1992 on Asia’s Aqua album, marks a significant turning point for the band. With the departure of original lead vocalist John Wetton, Aqua introduced a new era with John Payne taking over vocal duties, as well as contributing on bass. This album also saw the partial return of original guitarist Steve Howe, who contributed to select tracks, but Al Pitrelli—known for his work with Alice Cooper and later Megadeth—handled the majority of the guitar work. Geoff Downes (keyboards) and Carl Palmer (drums) returned to anchor the band, maintaining a sense of continuity despite the lineup shifts. Aqua was recorded in Los Angeles at Studio 54, with Geoff Downes and John Payne serving as producers.

“Lay Down Your Arms” stands out as one of the most anthemic and emotionally charged tracks on Aqua. Lyrically, the song touches on themes of peace and reconciliation, with Payne delivering lines like, “Lay down your arms, surrender to me,” urging an end to conflict and a move toward unity. The message of the song, though couched in personal terms, can be interpreted more broadly, particularly in a world dealing with social and political strife. Musically, the song balances Asia’s classic melodic sensibilities with a harder-edged, more modern sound. Pitrelli’s guitar work provides a powerful, sharp contrast to Howe’s more progressive stylings on earlier albums like Alpha, bringing a fresh energy to the band’s sound. Downes’ keyboards remain prominent, weaving atmospheric layers throughout the track, while Palmer’s tight drumming underscores the urgency of the message.

Compared to earlier Asia songs like “Soul Survivor” or “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes,” “Lay Down Your Arms” reflects a band in transition. While the earlier material often centered on personal introspection and relationship dynamics, “Lay Down Your Arms” tackles broader, more universal themes. The addition of Payne as lead vocalist gives the song a grittier, more robust vocal delivery than Wetton’s smoother tones, and this change brought a new dynamic to the band. The song charted modestly, reaching No. 4 on the U.S. Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks, marking a respectable showing for the new iteration of the band.

In many ways, “Lay Down Your Arms” is a fitting introduction to Asia’s post-Wetton era. It balances the signature Asia sound—largely due to Downes and Palmer—with a harder, more contemporary edge thanks to Pitrelli and Payne. The song showcases Asia’s ability to evolve while still remaining true to the melodic rock roots that made them successful in the early 1980s. While Aqua did not reach the commercial heights of their earlier albums, “Lay Down Your Arms” stands as a testament to the band’s resilience and adaptability, ensuring that Asia remained relevant and forward-thinking as they entered a new chapter in their career.

“Desire” – Aria

“Desire,” from Asia’s 1994 album Aria, represents another shift in the band’s lineup and sound, marking the arrival of drummer Michael Sturgis, who replaced Carl Palmer. While Palmer’s departure was significant, the remaining core members—John Payne on vocals and bass, Geoff Downes on keyboards, and Al Pitrelli on guitar—ensured that the band’s musical vision continued to evolve. The album was recorded in London at Advision Studios and produced by Downes and Payne, solidifying their creative partnership. Aria did not achieve the commercial success of Asia’s earlier work but demonstrated the band’s continued commitment to developing their sound in the changing rock landscape of the mid-1990s.

“Desire” is one of the standout tracks on Aria, combining melodic hooks with a more mature, sophisticated tone. The song’s lyrics center on themes of longing and emotional conflict, with Payne delivering lines like, “Desire is burning me down,” encapsulating the tension between yearning and self-control. The intensity of the lyrics is mirrored in the music, with Pitrelli’s fiery guitar work adding layers of depth and passion. His playing, which had already been established on Aqua, takes center stage here, combining intricate solos with power chords that emphasize the emotional weight of the song. Sturgis’s drumming adds a new dynamic, with a sharper, more precise approach than Palmer’s signature style, giving the track a contemporary edge.

Musically, “Desire” blends Asia’s classic melodic rock sound with the harder-edged tendencies that had emerged on Aqua. The track is notably heavier than earlier material like “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes,” reflecting the band’s shift toward a more modern rock sound in the 1990s. Payne’s vocal delivery is particularly strong, bringing a rawness and grit that contrasts with Wetton’s more polished vocal style on earlier Asia hits like “Soul Survivor.” Downes’ keyboards provide the necessary atmospheric depth, balancing the heaviness of Pitrelli’s guitar work while maintaining the band’s trademark melodic sensibility.

While Aria did not chart as high as Asia’s earlier albums, “Desire” stands out as a highlight of the record, showcasing the band’s evolution and resilience. The track exemplifies their ability to adapt to changing trends in rock music while maintaining their identity. In comparison to tracks like “Go” from Astra or “Lay Down Your Arms” from Aqua, “Desire” represents a bolder, more aggressive direction for the band, with a focus on emotional intensity and instrumental prowess. It remains a testament to Asia’s enduring ability to craft powerful, engaging songs even as their lineup and sound evolved through the years.

“Into the Arena” – Arena

“Into the Arena,” released on Asia’s 1996 album Arena, signaled a bold new direction for the band, featuring an eclectic mix of musicians and a sound that departed significantly from their earlier work. The album, recorded at Advision Studios in London, was produced by Geoff Downes and John Payne, who also handled their usual roles on keyboards and vocals/bass, respectively. What made Arena unique was the diverse array of guitarists brought in for different tracks. Aziz Ibrahim and Elliott Randall took on the bulk of the guitar work, while Japanese guitar virtuoso Hotei Tomoyasu delivered a blistering lead on the opening track, which set the tone for the album. Michael Sturgis continued his role on drums, with additional percussion from Luis Jardim, adding a rhythmic complexity that further distinguished this album from Asia’s previous releases.

“Into the Arena” is a standout track, embodying the album’s adventurous spirit. The song features powerful guitar riffs, with Ibrahim and Randall weaving a rich tapestry of melodic and aggressive lines, paired with Downes’ atmospheric keyboard work. Lyrically, “Into the Arena” reflects themes of challenge and perseverance, with Payne delivering lines like, “Facing the fire, I’m ready to go into the arena,” underscoring the song’s anthemic nature. The track’s title alone invokes images of battle and determination, adding a layer of intensity that fits the song’s energetic arrangement. Sturgis’s drums and Jardim’s percussion give the song a driving rhythm, providing a strong foundation for the guitar and keyboard interplay. This departure from the band’s more polished, radio-friendly sound, seen on albums like Astra and Aqua, showcases their willingness to experiment and adapt in the mid-1990s.

Comparatively, “Into the Arena” marks a more aggressive and complex musical direction than previous Asia hits like “Lay Down Your Arms” from Aqua or “Soul Survivor” from their self-titled debut. The layered guitars and heightened percussion set it apart from the more traditional, synth-heavy arrangements of earlier albums. Payne’s vocals, which had already brought a grittier edge to Asia’s sound in the early 90s, take on a more commanding presence here, adding a level of emotional depth and urgency that complements the track’s thematic focus on personal and metaphorical battle.

Though Arena didn’t achieve significant commercial success, “Into the Arena” remains a highlight of the album, showcasing Asia’s versatility and their ability to push their sound into new territories. The incorporation of diverse musicians added fresh textures, with Ibrahim’s guitar work giving the song a distinctly modern, alternative rock flavor that helped rejuvenate the band’s sound. In comparison to tracks like “Desire” from Aria, “Into the Arena” embraces a more epic, dynamic feel, serving as a reminder that Asia was not afraid to evolve and experiment, even as the music industry landscape continued to change. The track stands as a testament to the band’s resilience and commitment to exploring new musical ground.

“Awake” – Aura

“Awake,” from Asia’s 2001 album Aura, exemplifies the band’s desire to push their sound forward by combining their progressive rock roots with a more diverse sonic palette. By the time Aura was recorded, Asia had been reduced to the core duo of John Payne (vocals and bass) and Geoff Downes (keyboards), but they embraced this transition by surrounding themselves with an array of high-profile guest musicians. The album, recorded at Loco Studios in Wales, saw contributions from progressive rock icons like Tony Levin (King Crimson), Elliott Randall (Steely Dan), and Chris Slade (AC/DC). Notably, original Asia guitarist Steve Howe made a brief return to contribute to two tracks. The album was produced by Payne, Downes, and Simon Hanhart, with Aura serving as a culmination of the band’s experimentation throughout the 1990s.

“Awake” is one of the album’s most ambitious tracks, incorporating lyrics adapted from The Rubaiyat of Omar Khayyam, a classic Persian poem that meditates on life, fate, and the passage of time. Payne’s vocals carry a haunting, reflective quality that complements the song’s introspective lyrics, with lines like, “Awake, for morning in the bowl of night has flung the stone that puts the stars to flight.” Musically, the song melds Asia’s signature melodic rock with a more acoustic, Latin-inflected sound that had emerged on their previous album Arena. Guthrie Govan’s guitar work, which combines technical precision with emotional depth, adds a rich texture to the track, while Chris Slade’s drumming provides a dynamic rhythmic foundation.

Compared to earlier Asia tracks like “Lay Down Your Arms” from Aqua or “Into the Arena” from Arena, “Awake” represents a more nuanced and layered approach, both thematically and musically. While those songs featured more straightforward rock elements, “Awake” leans into atmospheric and acoustic arrangements, allowing Downes’ keyboards and Govan’s guitar to take on more of a meditative tone. This shift is emblematic of Aura as a whole, where the band explored a broader range of influences, from Latin rhythms to progressive intricacies, creating a unique fusion of styles.

“Awake” stands as a key track on Aura, encapsulating the band’s evolution into a more diverse and eclectic sound while retaining the emotional and lyrical depth that characterized their earlier work. Although Aura didn’t achieve major commercial success, the track demonstrates Asia’s commitment to artistic growth and their ability to adapt while maintaining the core of their musical identity. The song’s blend of introspective lyrics and innovative instrumentation makes it a standout in the band’s catalog, offering a glimpse into their continued evolution as artists.

“Long Way From Home” – Silent Nation

“Long Way From Home,” from Asia’s 2004 album Silent Nation, marks the closing chapter of the John Payne era, standing as a powerful statement before the band’s eventual reunion with its original lineup in 2006. Recorded at Clear Lake Audio in North Hollywood, Los Angeles, Silent Nation was entirely produced, engineered, and mixed by Payne himself, showcasing his full creative vision for the band. The album featured a stable lineup consisting of Payne on vocals and bass, Geoff Downes on keyboards, Guthrie Govan on guitar, and Chris Slade on drums. This configuration had solidified during the recording of Aura in 2001, but for Silent Nation, the band focused on a more polished, streamlined rock sound while maintaining their signature melodic approach.

“Long Way From Home” stands out as one of the album’s most emotionally resonant tracks, with lyrics that convey themes of displacement, isolation, and the longing for connection. Payne’s vocal delivery is particularly poignant, reflecting the internal struggle described in lines like, “I’m a long way from home, and I miss you so much.” The song’s reflective tone is matched by Govan’s expressive guitar work, which blends melodic solos with a more restrained, thoughtful style compared to his usual technical prowess. The song’s slower tempo and atmospheric production highlight the emotional depth of the lyrics, adding layers of melancholy that resonate with listeners.

Musically, “Long Way From Home” diverges from some of the more upbeat tracks on Silent Nation, such as “I Will Be There for You” or “Ghost in the Mirror,” which carry a more anthemic rock energy. Instead, this track draws comparisons to earlier Asia ballads like “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” from Alpha, though with a more introspective, somber tone. The rich texture of Downes’ keyboards provides an atmospheric backdrop, while Govan’s tasteful guitar fills offer subtle but impactful moments of emotion. Payne’s lyrics, which largely center around themes of centralization of power and the alienation it causes in the modern world, take on a more personal, human scale in “Long Way From Home,” making it one of the album’s more relatable and intimate offerings.

While Silent Nation may not have achieved the commercial success of Asia’s earlier albums, “Long Way From Home” stands as a testament to the band’s ability to evolve musically and lyrically. The song captures the emotional complexities of the later stages of the Payne-era, providing listeners with a powerful sense of closure as Asia prepared for a new chapter in their history. As one of the more introspective tracks on the album, “Long Way From Home” reflects the band’s maturity and willingness to explore new thematic territories while staying true to their melodic roots.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=daE9swcZE8Y

“I Will Remember You” – Phoenix

“I Will Remember You,” from Asia’s 2008 album Phoenix, is a standout track that marks the triumphant return of the band’s original lineup after more than two decades apart. Phoenix, the band’s tenth studio album, saw the reunion of the classic quartet—John Wetton (vocals, bass), Steve Howe (guitar), Geoff Downes (keyboards), and Carl Palmer (drums)—who had not recorded together since their early 1980s heyday. The album was recorded in 2007 at Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire, England, and produced by the band itself. The reunion and subsequent release of Phoenix were highly anticipated, as Asia’s original lineup had been responsible for their most successful albums, including their debut Asia (1982) and Alpha (1983).

“I Will Remember You” is an emotionally charged ballad, reflective of the band’s reunion and the passage of time. The song’s lyrics, “I will remember you, will you remember me?” are imbued with themes of nostalgia and the enduring power of memory, fitting for a band reconnecting after years of separation. Wetton’s vocals carry a sense of poignancy, with his heartfelt delivery adding depth to the lyrics. Musically, the track blends Asia’s signature melodic rock sound with lush, atmospheric keyboards from Downes and Howe’s intricate guitar work, which recalls the band’s earlier progressive rock influences. Palmer’s drumming is understated but precise, providing a solid rhythmic foundation that complements the song’s emotional tone.

Compared to earlier Asia ballads like “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” from Alpha or “The Last Time” from Aura, “I Will Remember You” offers a more reflective and mature perspective. While the former tracks often dealt with themes of heartbreak or loss, this song feels more like a tribute to lasting relationships and memories, both personal and professional. The reunion of the original lineup clearly influenced the song’s emotional core, as it seems to reflect not only on personal experiences but also the band’s journey through its ups and downs over the years.

“I Will Remember You” captures the essence of Phoenix—a record that balances the nostalgia of Asia’s past with the fresh energy of a reunited band. Though Phoenix didn’t achieve the commercial heights of the band’s earlier releases, the song serves as a powerful reminder of Asia’s ability to craft emotionally resonant music. It highlights their strengths as songwriters and performers, proving that the chemistry between the original members had endured through the years, making Phoenix a fitting and meaningful chapter in Asia’s storied career.

“Through My Veins” – Omega

“Through My Veins,” from Asia’s 2010 album Omega, is a poignant and reflective track that stands out as one of the highlights of the band’s eleventh studio effort. Omega marked the second album from the original Asia lineup—John Wetton on vocals and bass, Steve Howe on guitar, Geoff Downes on keyboards, and Carl Palmer on drums—following their reunion in 2006. Recorded at Steve Rispin’s Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire between October 2009 and February 2010, Omega was produced by Mike Paxman, making it the first Asia album since their 1982 debut to employ an outside producer. This collaboration resulted in a polished and cohesive sound that balanced Asia’s signature melodic rock with more introspective and mature songwriting.

“Through My Veins” is a deeply emotional song, with lyrics that reflect themes of loss, memory, and the passage of time. Wetton’s vocals carry a weight of personal reflection, and it has been suggested that the song serves as a tribute to lost loved ones or to past experiences that continue to shape one’s life. The line, “I feel you through my veins, your love is still my strength,” encapsulates this sense of emotional connection that transcends time and physical presence. Musically, the song blends Downes’ lush keyboard atmospherics with Howe’s delicate guitar work, creating a sonic landscape that is both melancholic and uplifting. Palmer’s subtle, precise drumming further enhances the reflective tone, allowing Wetton’s heartfelt lyrics to take center stage.

Compared to earlier Asia tracks such as “I Will Remember You” from Phoenix or “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” from Alpha, “Through My Veins” continues the band’s exploration of nostalgia and emotional endurance but with a more nuanced and mature approach. While “The Smile Has Left Your Eyes” focused on personal heartbreak, and “I Will Remember You” reflected on reconnection and memory, “Through My Veins” feels like a meditation on the deeper emotional ties that persist through life’s changes. Wetton’s vocal delivery is more restrained but carries a depth that reveals the band’s evolution as songwriters and musicians.

“Through My Veins” is one of the standout tracks on Omega and serves as a powerful example of the original lineup’s ability to balance technical musicianship with heartfelt songwriting. While Omega may not have achieved the commercial success of Asia’s earlier albums, it demonstrated the band’s enduring relevance and emotional resonance. The track stands as a testament to the band’s growth and their ability to connect with listeners through music that blends introspection with their signature melodic style.

“Face on the Bridge” – XXX

“Face on the Bridge,” from Asia’s 2012 album XXX, serves as both a powerful track and a symbolic moment in the band’s career. Released as the lead single from XXX, the album marked the 30th anniversary of the band’s debut and, poignantly, the final studio album to feature the original lineup of John Wetton (vocals, bass), Steve Howe (guitar), Geoff Downes (keyboards), and Carl Palmer (drums). The album was recorded at Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire, where Asia had previously worked on Phoenix (2008) and Omega (2010), and was produced by Mike Paxman. Engineered by Steve Rispin, XXX maintained Asia’s signature sound while showing a band still capable of delivering powerful, emotionally resonant rock. The album artwork, once again designed by Roger Dean, featured an updated dragon symbol, marking the Year of the Water Dragon and commemorating three decades since the band’s formation.

“Face on the Bridge” is a striking track that blends Asia’s signature melodic rock with themes of nostalgia and reflection. The song’s lyrics, “There’s a face on the bridge, it’s a long way down,” hint at feelings of distance, separation, and the challenges of reconciling the past with the present. Wetton’s vocals are particularly poignant here, his performance filled with a sense of gravitas that reflects his maturity as a songwriter and singer. Howe’s guitar work provides a sweeping, melodic undercurrent, while Downes’ keyboards create the atmospheric texture that has long defined Asia’s sound. Palmer’s drumming is tight and controlled, adding a rhythmic foundation that complements the song’s introspective tone.

Compared to earlier tracks like “I Will Remember You” from Phoenix or “Through My Veins” from Omega, “Face on the Bridge” feels like a final reflection on the band’s long and storied career. While those earlier tracks dealt with personal memory and emotional connection, “Face on the Bridge” looks outward, grappling with larger themes of legacy and the passage of time. The song’s soaring chorus and intricate instrumental sections serve as a reminder of Asia’s ability to balance emotional depth with technical musicianship.

As the lead single from XXX, “Face on the Bridge” helped promote the album and was released with an accompanying music video, showcasing the band’s continued relevance and creative energy. Though XXX did not achieve the commercial success of Asia’s earliest releases, the album stands as a fitting capstone to the band’s legacy with the original lineup. “Face on the Bridge” encapsulates the band’s reflective tone at this stage of their career, offering a mix of nostalgia and forward momentum, and serves as a poignant reminder of Asia’s enduring place in the world of progressive and melodic rock.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qU-ZRgZ8IrQ

“Valkyrie” – Gravitas

“Valkyrie,” from Asia’s 2014 album Gravitas, is a soaring and emotionally charged track that stands as a poignant reflection of the band’s later years. Gravitas marked the thirteenth studio release by the British rock group and was their final album with original vocalist and bassist John Wetton before his passing in 2017. The album also introduced Sam Coulson as the band’s new guitarist, replacing Steve Howe. Recorded at Steve Rispin’s Liscombe Park Studios in Buckinghamshire, Gravitas was produced by Wetton and keyboardist Geoff Downes, marking a return to the band’s roots with no outside producer. The vocals were recorded at Aubitt Studios in Southampton, while the final mix was handled by John Mitchell at Outhouse Studios in Reading, Berkshire.

“Valkyrie” serves as the album’s opening track and lead single, setting the tone for Gravitas with its majestic, epic feel. Lyrically, the song draws upon the mythological figure of the Valkyrie—warrior maidens who escorted fallen soldiers to the afterlife. This metaphor resonates deeply in the song’s themes of loss, sacrifice, and transcendence, with Wetton’s voice carrying both strength and vulnerability. Lines like “Falling from the sky, my soul has touched the ground” evoke a sense of finality and acceptance, which makes the track all the more poignant given that this would be Wetton’s last album with the band. Musically, “Valkyrie” balances sweeping orchestral elements with Coulson’s melodic guitar work, offering a fresh dynamic to Asia’s sound while staying true to the band’s melodic rock roots.

Compared to earlier songs like “Face on the Bridge” from XXX or “I Will Remember You” from Phoenix, “Valkyrie” leans more heavily into its mythological and cinematic themes, underscored by a grander, more symphonic production. While both previous tracks explored themes of memory and reflection, “Valkyrie” elevates the emotional stakes, offering a more dramatic narrative that reflects the band’s journey and the passage of time. Coulson’s guitar work, though less intricate than Steve Howe’s, adds a youthful energy that complements Wetton’s seasoned, reflective vocals.

The release of “Valkyrie” was accompanied by a music video shot in Los Angeles in January 2014, further emphasizing the song’s dramatic, visual appeal. Though Gravitas didn’t achieve the commercial success of Asia’s earlier albums, “Valkyrie” stands as one of the highlights of the band’s later discography. It not only showcases the chemistry between Wetton and Downes as songwriters but also serves as a fitting tribute to Wetton’s legacy, with his final vocal performance carrying a weight that echoes throughout the album. “Valkyrie” is a powerful reminder of Asia’s enduring ability to craft emotionally resonant music, even as they faced the end of an era.