New Asia Single -- Face on the Bridge

In 1982, Asia created a musical tidal wave with its self-titled debut album. Songs like “Heat of the Moment,” “Wildest Dreams,” and “Soul Survivor,” were as colorful, taut, and energetic as the pearl-chasing dragon that graced the cover of that chart topping record. Today, two open heart surgeries and thirty years later the pearl-chasing dragon is back and so are the four original members of Asia. The new single from their forthcoming album, “Face on the Bridge,” captures the band sounding fresh and relevant. John Wetton’s huskily melodic voice seems like it has been preserved in a time capsule. He’s still singing about romantic angst just as well as he did decades ago, which is a wonder. Guitarist Steve Howe brings a touch of class to everything he does. His guitar lines here bear his unique stamp; they are succinct, catchy, tasteful and non-obvious. Drummer Carl Palmer is in great form too; his percussion is crisp, energetic, yet spacious. Geoff Downes textural keyboard style compliments both the music and his fellow musicians perfectly. “Face on the Bridge” is pop music sprinkled with a progressive flavor. It’s hummable and delectably melodic tune that somehow seems infused with the elixir of eternal youth. In some ways, Asia is like the Peter Pan of music; they’ve never quite grown up, but they’ve never grown old either. Asia is still riding the dragon that chases the pearl. The musical perfection the group achieved in 1982 is probably out of reach, but I’m very glad the quest continues.