2022 landmarks 30 years since the release of the ASIA album AQUA on which John Payne was ASIA’s lead vocalist.
The following 15 years featured 7 more stunning ASIA studio albums, ARIA, ARENA, ANTHOLOGY, AURA, ARCHIVA 1&2 and SILENT NATION. This year also celebrates 40 years since the 1982 release of the first ASIA album (Downes, Howe, Wetton, Palmer) that features the hits, “Heat of the Moment” and “Only Time Will Tell.”
This tour will showcase the music of both ASIA’s 1982 release and ASIA’s 1992 release AQUA.
The 90-minute show focuses on those two albums and a set list that includes, “Who Will Stop the Rain,” “Someday,” “Heat of the Moment,” “Only Time Will Tell,” “Back in Town,” “Lay Down Your Arms,” “Sole Survivor,” “Time Again,” “Love Under Fire,” “Heaven on Earth,” “Wildest Dreams,” “Here Comes the Feeling” and more.
Vocalist John Payne remarked “This is going to be very nostalgic for me, I haven’t played some of these songs in 30 years and I’m extremely excited to do this tour with our band. We want the shows to sound as close to the original recordings as possible”
Manager Lee Evans said “The band is really on form and John’s vocals are as powerful as ever, It’s gonna be a knock-out show!”
Performing classics such as “Feels Like The First Time,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Heat of the Moment,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Only Time Will Tell,” “Cold As Ice,” “Sole Survivor” and more!
DEVGEL Productions announce that Lou Gramm and Asia Featuring John Payne have joined forces in an exciting 90 minute show featuring the hits of both FOREIGNER and ASIA.
Expect to hear classics such as “Feels Like The First Time,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Heat of the Moment,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Only Time Will Tell,” “Cold As Ice,” “Sole Survivor” and more!
Dates to be announced shortly, with availability throughout 2018 – 2019.
LOU GRAMM Is the original lead singer of Foreigner. Initially starting out as the drummer with the band Black Sheep, he joined Foreigner in 1976, and the band released their debut album in March of 1977. Their self-titled debut sold more than four million copies in the United States alone. Foreigner became the first group since the Beatles to have their first eight continuous singles reach the Billboard Top 20, with hits such as “Cold as Ice” and “Long, Long Way from Home” taking the world of rock music by storm. Gramm has also enjoyed a successful solo career in-between hiatuses with Foreigner, with his 1987 debut “Ready or Not” further proving his versatility in the music industry. Lou Gramm was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in June of 2013, and continues to tour as Lou Gramm the Voice of Foreigner.
JOHN PAYNE Is a British musician best known as the lead singer and bassist of the progressive rock group ASIA. The early 80s marked the start of a solo career as a rock/soul vocalist, with Payne releasing several heavily played radio singles. Shortly after, Payne was employed as a backing vocalist by Roger Daltrey of The Who on his solo albums. This lead to a series of work singing backing vocals for a variety of prestigious artists and composers. John then formed The Passion with keyboardist Andy Nye before being approached by Bev Bevan of ELO to reform the band after the departure of singer Jeff Lynne. This was short lived as he was later invited to join the supergroup ASIA, where he fronted the group from 1992 to 2006, releasing 10 albums and embarking on several world tours. After a brief hiatus, John formed the progressive rock band GPS before returning to the reformation of ASIA as the new ASIA Featuring John Payne, which tours to date. He is also currently involved with various stage projects, including co-creating, performing, and writing an award-winning Vegas musical. His latest endeavor is The Rock Pack, which he plans to tour for many years to come.
This tour package is exclusively represented by Booking agent Charlie Davis at Paradise Artists charlie@paradiseartists.com
Management Lee Evans at Devgel Productions lee@devgel.com
Performing classics such as “Feels Like The First Time,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Heat of the Moment,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Only Time Will Tell,” “Cold As Ice,” “Sole Survivor” and more!
DEVGEL Productions announce that Lou Gramm and Asia Featuring John Payne have joined forces in an exciting 90 minute show featuring the hits of both FOREIGNER and ASIA.
Expect to hear classics such as “Feels Like The First Time,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” “Heat of the Moment,” “Juke Box Hero,” “Only Time Will Tell,” “Cold As Ice,” “Sole Survivor” and more!
Dates to be announced shortly, with availability throughout 2018 – 2019.
LOU GRAMM
Is the original lead singer of Foreigner. Initially starting out as the drummer with the band Black Sheep, he joined Foreigner in 1976, and the band released their debut album in March of 1977. Their self-titled debut sold more than four million copies in the United States alone. Foreigner became the first group since the Beatles to have their first eight continuous singles reach the Billboard Top 20, with hits such as “Cold as Ice” and “Long, Long Way from Home” taking the world of rock music by storm. Gramm has also enjoyed a successful solo career in-between hiatuses with Foreigner, with his 1987 debut “Ready or Not” further proving his versatility in the music industry. Lou Gramm was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in June of 2013, and continues to tour as Lou Gramm the Voice of Foreigner.
JOHN PAYNE
Is a British musician best known as the lead singer and bassist of the progressive rock group ASIA. The early 80s marked the start of a solo career as a rock/soul vocalist, with Payne releasing several heavily played radio singles. Shortly after, Payne was employed as a backing vocalist by Roger Daltrey of The Who on his solo albums. This lead to a series of work singing backing vocals for a variety of prestigious artists and composers. John then formed The Passion with keyboardist Andy Nye before being approached by Bev Bevan of ELO to reform the band after the departure of singer Jeff Lynne. This was short lived as he was later invited to join the supergroup ASIA, where he fronted the group from 1992 to 2006, releasing 10 albums and embarking on several world tours. After a brief hiatus, John formed the progressive rock band GPS before returning to the reformation of ASIA as the new ASIA Featuring John Payne, which tours to date. He is also currently involved with various stage projects, including co-creating, performing, and writing an award-winning Vegas musical. His latest endeavor is The Rock Pack, which he plans to tour for many years to come.
This tour package is exclusively represented by Booking agent Charlie Davis at Paradise Artists charlie@paradiseartists.com
Management Lee Evans at Devgel Productions lee@devgel.com
Rock music legend John Wetton sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning, Tuesday 31st January 2017, after a long and courageous battle against colon cancer.
John rose to fame with King Crimson in the early 70s during the iconic Red era and later formed the band UK. In the early 1980s he was a founder member of supergroup ASIA which was his biggest commercial success. The band’s 1982 self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world that year and gave fans and mainstream radio the mega-hit Heat of the Moment.
John also enjoyed a successful solo career, including the seminal album Battle Lines, and formed iCon with ASIA bandmate Geoff Downes. In 2006 the original line-up of ASIA reformed and toured the world several times to promote four new studio albums.
John had been planning to tour with ASIA for the band’s forthcoming US arena tour with Journey and following the success of his solo Studio Recordings Anthology, to continue working on the ongoing re-issue programme of his solo albums, via his own Primary Purpose label.
John valued his over 11 years of sobriety and volunteered time in fellowship with other alcoholics to share his experience, strength and hope with them. John is survived by his recently wed wife Lisa and 18 year old son Dylan, brother Robert and mother Peggy.
The very last studio song of John Wetton’s career was the closing track on the most recent and indeed final ASIA album “Gravitas” and included the profound lyrics “Think the best of me, till we meet again.”
A statement by Geoff Downes:
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart, that I have to report we have lost my dearest friend, brother, bandmate and long term musical collaborator, John Wetton, who has passed away after a long and tenacious battle with cancer. He will be remembered as one of the world’s finest musical talents, and I for one of many was wholly blessed by his influence. It was a massive privilege for me to have worked with this genius so closely on our numerous projects together over the years. His bass playing was revolutionary. His voice was from the gods. His compositions - out of this world. His sense of melody and harmony - unreal. He was literally a 'special one'.
But John was much more than a gigantic and unique musical talent. He was a supremely intelligent man, marked with his great observations and wisdom about life; all couched within his wicked sense of humour. The wit was dark and deep, only fully perceptible to those on his same wavelength. I was fortunate enough to be able to be on that wavelength, and discover that we had much in common. Many of his personal life experiences were reflected in his lyrical contributions to the songs. His heart was always in the music. That was John, through and through. It was always about - the music.
As a person, he was fiercely loyal, loving and generous, particularly to those he cared about. But he could be as stubborn as a mule or as gracious as a nobleman, depending on the mood that grabbed him on any particular day. There were some who couldn't read his brilliant mind and complex personality. Some found him charming, others infuriating. But however you found John, there was no denying his rare talent as a musician and songwriter was second to none.
Both of us having been brought up with similar backgrounds in provincial England, we shared a love of many things - sport, and in particular - football, English church music, current affairs, comedy, literature, you name it....pretty much everything that 2 kids from the sticks were exposed to in our youth.
Our planets seemed to be immediately in alignment when we first met in early 1981. There was a laddish camaraderie that grew between us as we became as close as two non-related brothers could be. He was an avid reader and film enthusiast, something he pursued with great interest. This helped inspire him to some wonderful lyrics to the literally hundreds of songs we composed together. Back then, we immediately hit the ground running as we composed much of the debut ASIA album together and forged a formidable partnership which lasted right up until now. It was a wholly natural process for us, whereby we could knock out 2 or 3 songs in an afternoon. They were always greeted with our gentlemanly handshake and smiles once we had wrapped up another one in the bag.
Above all else though, his passion for life was to the fore. The battles he endured throughout were immense and well documented. Firstly with alcohol, which he so resolutely overcame, then open heart surgery and finally cancer, which sadly was to take his life in the end. He once observed to me that this disease is a "merciless assassin". Just another example of his perception and the descriptive language that he was so richly blessed with. He took all of these battles on board with great bravery and almost a 'laissez-faire' attitude, tinged with his inimitable wry wit.
To say I will miss my him greatly is beyond understatement. He was such an inspiration to me. We were planning another album, but sadly he was not well enough to complete it. I feel heartbroken about this, as I knew John thought it was to be one of our finest albums to date. I remain as proud as ever of our Wetton/Downes writing partnership. I am hoping one day that I will be able to finish it, and that it will be appreciated by all those who loved his and our music, and most importantly, a legacy he would have been proud of.
Life will not be the same without him. And words are not really enough to describe the loss I feel right now, and the many friends and fans all over the World will also be feeling. It is the end of an era for all of us. But we will soldier on - the music of John Wetton needs to be heard loud and clear from the rooftops.
Dearest John, may you rest in peace brother.
X
Geoffrey
Please join me in sending our sincerest thoughts and prayers to Lisa, Dylan and the entire Wetton family at this difficult time.
A statement by Carl Palmer:
With the passing of my good friend and musical collaborator, John Wetton, the world loses yet another musical giant. John was a gentle person who created some of the most lasting melodies and lyrics in modern popular music. As a musician, he was both brave and innovative, with a voice that took the music of ASIA to the top of the charts around the world. His ability to triumph over alcohol abuse made him an inspiration to many who have also fought that battle. For those of us who knew him and worked with him, his valiant struggle against cancer was a further inspiration. I will miss his talent, his sense of humor and his infectious smile. May you ride easy, my old friend. Carl Palmer.
Rock music legend John Wetton sadly passed away in the early hours of this morning, Tuesday 31st January 2017, after a long and courageous battle against colon cancer.
John rose to fame with King Crimson in the early 70s during the iconic Red era and later formed the band UK. In the early 1980s he was a founder member of supergroup ASIA which was his biggest commercial success. The band’s 1982 self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world that year and gave fans and mainstream radio the mega-hit Heat of the Moment.
John also enjoyed a successful solo career, including the seminal album Battle Lines, and formed iCon with ASIA bandmate Geoff Downes. In 2006 the original line-up of ASIA reformed and toured the world several times to promote four new studio albums.
John had been planning to tour with ASIA for the band’s forthcoming US arena tour with Journey and following the success of his solo Studio Recordings Anthology, to continue working on the ongoing re-issue programme of his solo albums, via his own Primary Purpose label.
John valued his over 11 years of sobriety and volunteered time in fellowship with other alcoholics to share his experience, strength and hope with them. John is survived by his recently wed wife Lisa and 18 year old son Dylan, brother Robert and mother Peggy.
The very last studio song of John Wetton’s career was the closing track on the most recent and indeed final ASIA album “Gravitas” and included the profound lyrics “Think the best of me, till we meet again.”
A statement by Geoff Downes:
It is with great sadness and a heavy heart, that I have to report we have lost my dearest friend, brother, bandmate and long term musical collaborator, John Wetton, who has passed away after a long and tenacious battle with cancer. He will be remembered as one of the world’s finest musical talents, and I for one of many was wholly blessed by his influence. It was a massive privilege for me to have worked with this genius so closely on our numerous projects together over the years. His bass playing was revolutionary. His voice was from the gods. His compositions - out of this world. His sense of melody and harmony - unreal. He was literally a 'special one'.
But John was much more than a gigantic and unique musical talent. He was a supremely intelligent man, marked with his great observations and wisdom about life; all couched within his wicked sense of humour. The wit was dark and deep, only fully perceptible to those on his same wavelength. I was fortunate enough to be able to be on that wavelength, and discover that we had much in common. Many of his personal life experiences were reflected in his lyrical contributions to the songs. His heart was always in the music. That was John, through and through. It was always about - the music.
As a person, he was fiercely loyal, loving and generous, particularly to those he cared about. But he could be as stubborn as a mule or as gracious as a nobleman, depending on the mood that grabbed him on any particular day. There were some who couldn't read his brilliant mind and complex personality. Some found him charming, others infuriating. But however you found John, there was no denying his rare talent as a musician and songwriter was second to none.
Both of us having been brought up with similar backgrounds in provincial England, we shared a love of many things - sport, and in particular - football, English church music, current affairs, comedy, literature, you name it....pretty much everything that 2 kids from the sticks were exposed to in our youth.
Our planets seemed to be immediately in alignment when we first met in early 1981. There was a laddish camaraderie that grew between us as we became as close as two non-related brothers could be. He was an avid reader and film enthusiast, something he pursued with great interest. This helped inspire him to some wonderful lyrics to the literally hundreds of songs we composed together. Back then, we immediately hit the ground running as we composed much of the debut ASIA album together and forged a formidable partnership which lasted right up until now. It was a wholly natural process for us, whereby we could knock out 2 or 3 songs in an afternoon. They were always greeted with our gentlemanly handshake and smiles once we had wrapped up another one in the bag.
Above all else though, his passion for life was to the fore. The battles he endured throughout were immense and well documented. Firstly with alcohol, which he so resolutely overcame, then open heart surgery and finally cancer, which sadly was to take his life in the end. He once observed to me that this disease is a "merciless assassin". Just another example of his perception and the descriptive language that he was so richly blessed with. He took all of these battles on board with great bravery and almost a 'laissez-faire' attitude, tinged with his inimitable wry wit.
To say I will miss my him greatly is beyond understatement. He was such an inspiration to me. We were planning another album, but sadly he was not well enough to complete it. I feel heartbroken about this, as I knew John thought it was to be one of our finest albums to date. I remain as proud as ever of our Wetton/Downes writing partnership. I am hoping one day that I will be able to finish it, and that it will be appreciated by all those who loved his and our music, and most importantly, a legacy he would have been proud of.
Life will not be the same without him. And words are not really enough to describe the loss I feel right now, and the many friends and fans all over the World will also be feeling. It is the end of an era for all of us. But we will soldier on - the music of John Wetton needs to be heard loud and clear from the rooftops.
Dearest John, may you rest in peace brother.
X
Geoffrey
Please join me in sending our sincerest thoughts and prayers to Lisa, Dylan and the entire Wetton family at this difficult time.
A statement by Carl Palmer:
With the passing of my good friend and musical collaborator, John Wetton, the world loses yet another musical giant. John was a gentle person who created some of the most lasting melodies and lyrics in modern popular music. As a musician, he was both brave and innovative, with a voice that took the music of ASIA to the top of the charts around the world. His ability to triumph over alcohol abuse made him an inspiration to many who have also fought that battle. For those of us who knew him and worked with him, his valiant struggle against cancer was a further inspiration. I will miss his talent, his sense of humor and his infectious smile. May you ride easy, my old friend. Carl Palmer.
London, UK - John Wetton is best known as lead singer and bassist of Asia, UK and the Red-era of King Crimson, with an extensive solo catalogue. The “Official Bootleg Archive” collects together three of Wetton's previously released “Official Bootlegs” - which have been out of print for nearly 10 years!
The “Official Bootleg Archive Vol 1” six CD set's audio has been remastered and includes new artwork, fully approved by John Wetton. The set is the seventh title released on John Wetton’s own Primary Purpose imprint via Cherry Red Records.
As a singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame in King Crimson and the third album that line-up released was Red, cited by so many artists as a core influence. After his period with King Crimson, Wetton co-founded UK and later he was the frontman and co-principal songwriter of the supergroup Asia, his biggest commercial success. The band’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982 and gave the world the mega hit Heat of the Moment.
Since 1980 Wetton has had a successful solo career releasing a number of studio and live albums and later formed the duo iCon with Geoff Downes (YES, Buggles and ASIA). As a writer and musician Wetton has collaborated with many music artists including Ringo Starr, Jim Peterik, Robert Fripp, David Gilmour, Agnetha Fältskog, Phil Manzanera, Steve Howe, Bill Bruford, Alan White, Carl Palmer, Simon Phillips, Steve Lukather, Terry Bozzio, George Martin, Bryan Ferry, Ron Nevison and Steve Hackett. To purchase John Wetton's “Official Bootleg Archive Vol 1”:http://geni.us/PP007CD Official Website:www.johnwetton.com
London, UK - John Wetton is best known as lead singer and bassist of Asia, UK and the Red-era of King Crimson, with an extensive solo catalogue. The “Official Bootleg Archive” collects together three of Wetton's previously released “Official Bootlegs” - which have been out of print for nearly 10 years!
The “Official Bootleg Archive Vol 1” six CD set's audio has been remastered and includes new artwork, fully approved by John Wetton. The set is the seventh title released on John Wetton’s own Primary Purpose imprint via Cherry Red Records.
As a singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame in King Crimson and the third album that line-up released was Red, cited by so many artists as a core influence. After his period with King Crimson, Wetton co-founded UK and later he was the frontman and co-principal songwriter of the supergroup Asia, his biggest commercial success. The band’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982 and gave the world the mega hit Heat of the Moment.
Since 1980 Wetton has had a successful solo career releasing a number of studio and live albums and later formed the duo iCon with Geoff Downes (YES, Buggles and ASIA). As a writer and musician Wetton has collaborated with many music artists including Ringo Starr, Jim Peterik, Robert Fripp, David Gilmour, Agnetha Fältskog, Phil Manzanera, Steve Howe, Bill Bruford, Alan White, Carl Palmer, Simon Phillips, Steve Lukather, Terry Bozzio, George Martin, Bryan Ferry, Ron Nevison and Steve Hackett. To purchase John Wetton's “Official Bootleg Archive Vol 1”:http://geni.us/PP007CD Official Website:www.johnwetton.com
This
is a recording produced by the original line-up of the band, Asia, when they
toured in support of the album XXX,
released back in 2012.The venue for the recording was the Regency Ballroom in
San Francisco and the date was the 7th November 2012.
The four members of the band were John Wetton (bass,
vocals), Carl Palmer (drums), Steve Howe (guitars) and Geoff Downes
(keyboards).
This is the band’s 23rd live album, if the information to
be gleaned from progarchives.com is to
be believed. Axis XXX Live In San
Franscisco is a 2 disc release with a total playing time a few seconds over
the 2 hour mark, (120:21), and comprises 19 tracks. Disc 1 has 12 tracks
including the obligatory “Introduction” and has a running time of 62:50 minutes
with the second disc, 7 tracks and a slightly shorter playing time of 57:31
minutes. The longest track on offer is found on disc 2, “ Holy War-Drum Solo”
at 15:03 minutes and the shortest track is “Pyramidolog,” on disc 1 with a
playing time of 3:26 minutes.
The recording concentrates on the earlier albums,
although it was headlined as the Axis XXX tour, with 10 of the 19 tracks coming
from the first album, Asia in 1982 (7
tracks) and second album, Alpha in
1983 (3 tracks). The only other album to be “plundered” in any way is XXX, from 2012, with 3 tracks. An odd
inclusion to my mind is a track taken from the solo album release by Steve Howe
in 2001, Natural Timbre.
After the fairly low-key introduction, which is simply
the music prior to and during the band entering the stage, as evidenced by the
clapping/cheering that starts up part way through. Once ready, the band burst
into life with 2 classic tracks from the debut album, Asia, now 33 years old, “Only Time Will Tell” (5:22) and “Wildest
Dreams” (6:02) and follow this duo with a track from the 2012, XXX album, “Face On The Bridge” (6:01). All
four members of the band are excellent as you would expect from such seasoned
musicians, and the power still present in the voice of John Wetton is amazing.
The band then run through a selection of material, which
tends to form the bulk of their live shows, so there are no real surprises.
“Pyramidology” (3:27) and “Golden Mean” (4:11) allow Steve Howe to highlight
his acoustic guitar playing, which most people are well aware of, and then the
band pull together for another track from the XXX album in the form of “I Know How You Feel” (5:50).
Whilst the album, Axis
XXX is not going to “set the heather alight” and shift shedloads of copies,
it is a very competent, satisfying release. If there is anything to flag up as
a negative, it is simply the lack of the surprise factor, with the playlist
being firmly planted in “safe” tracks, and a similarity to other live
recordings by the band.
For Asia fans, this will be an essential purchase, but I
am not convinced that this issue will add to the number of Asia fans. In the
same manner as the album started with a “bang,” it concludes in a similar
manner with the rousing pairing of “Sole Survivor” (7:24) and “Heat Of The
Moment” (7:55).
4/5 Stars
Key
Tracks: Only Time Will Tell, Tomorrow The World, Heat Of The Moment Tracks: Disc 1: Introduction Only Time Will Tell Wildest Dreams Face On The Bridge Time Again Tomorrow The world Ride Easy Pyramidology Golden Mean I Know How You Feel Don’t Cry Smile has left Your Eyes Disc 2: Cutting It Fine Holy War-Drum Solo Extraordinary Life Here Comes The feeling Open Your Eyes Sole Survivor Heat Of The Moment
This is a recording produced by the original line-up of the band, Asia, when they toured in support of the album XXX, released back in 2012.The venue for the recording was the Regency Ballroom in San Francisco and the date was the 7th November 2012.
The four members of the band were John Wetton (bass, vocals), Carl Palmer (drums), Steve Howe (guitars) and Geoff Downes (keyboards).
This is the band’s 23rd live album, if the information to be gleaned from progarchives.com is to be believed. Axis XXX Live In San Franscisco is a 2 disc release with a total playing time a few seconds over the 2 hour mark, (120:21), and comprises 19 tracks. Disc 1 has 12 tracks including the obligatory “Introduction” and has a running time of 62:50 minutes with the second disc, 7 tracks and a slightly shorter playing time of 57:31 minutes. The longest track on offer is found on disc 2, “ Holy War-Drum Solo” at 15:03 minutes and the shortest track is “Pyramidolog,” on disc 1 with a playing time of 3:26 minutes.
The recording concentrates on the earlier albums, although it was headlined as the Axis XXX tour, with 10 of the 19 tracks coming from the first album, Asia in 1982 (7 tracks) and second album, Alpha in 1983 (3 tracks). The only other album to be “plundered” in any way is XXX, from 2012, with 3 tracks. An odd inclusion to my mind is a track taken from the solo album release by Steve Howe in 2001, Natural Timbre.
After the fairly low-key introduction, which is simply the music prior to and during the band entering the stage, as evidenced by the clapping/cheering that starts up part way through. Once ready, the band burst into life with 2 classic tracks from the debut album, Asia, now 33 years old, “Only Time Will Tell” (5:22) and “Wildest Dreams” (6:02) and follow this duo with a track from the 2012, XXX album, “Face On The Bridge” (6:01). All four members of the band are excellent as you would expect from such seasoned musicians, and the power still present in the voice of John Wetton is amazing.
The band then run through a selection of material, which tends to form the bulk of their live shows, so there are no real surprises. “Pyramidology” (3:27) and “Golden Mean” (4:11) allow Steve Howe to highlight his acoustic guitar playing, which most people are well aware of, and then the band pull together for another track from the XXX album in the form of “I Know How You Feel” (5:50).
Whilst the album, Axis XXX is not going to “set the heather alight” and shift shedloads of copies, it is a very competent, satisfying release. If there is anything to flag up as a negative, it is simply the lack of the surprise factor, with the playlist being firmly planted in “safe” tracks, and a similarity to other live recordings by the band.
For Asia fans, this will be an essential purchase, but I am not convinced that this issue will add to the number of Asia fans. In the same manner as the album started with a “bang,” it concludes in a similar manner with the rousing pairing of “Sole Survivor” (7:24) and “Heat Of The Moment” (7:55).
4/5 Stars
Key Tracks: Only Time Will Tell, Tomorrow The World, Heat Of The Moment Tracks: Disc 1: Introduction Only Time Will Tell Wildest Dreams Face On The Bridge Time Again Tomorrow The world Ride Easy Pyramidology Golden Mean I Know How You Feel Don’t Cry Smile has left Your Eyes Disc 2: Cutting It Fine Holy War-Drum Solo Extraordinary Life Here Comes The feeling Open Your Eyes Sole Survivor Heat Of The Moment
London, UK - Sam Coulson is the current guitarist in legendary rock band ASIA. Coulson also has a tremendous following online through his extensive Youtube tuition and performance videos. “Electric Classical” is his FIRST solo album and features guitar interpretations of famous classical works.
Says Sam, “I'm very proud of my first solo Album 'Electric Classical'. It's 10 of my favourite classical pieces played on a couple of Fender Stratocasters. I really enjoyed recording these tracks. I hope you enjoy listening to them!”
Sam Coulson made his debut on YouTube in 2007, sharing videos of himself playing songs on the electric guitar. His playing attracted the attention of guitarist Paul Gilbert, who invited him to be a guest instructor for the Great Guitar Escape he created in July 2012. This would eventually lead to Coulson joining the British rock band Asia. When Asia's guitarist Steve Howe departed from the band in January 2013 in order to pursue other projects, Coulson was selected as his replacement. Coulson has, so far, worked with Asia on their latest studio album, “Gravitas”, released in 2014
Watch Sam Coulson's new promotional video:
Sam Coulson's “Electric Classical” is OUT NOW!
Track Listing:
1. AVE MARIA 2. BWV 1007 PRELUDE 3. OP. 35 NO. 22 4. RECUERDOS DE LA ALHAMBRA 5. VALS VENEZOLANO NO. 2 6. OP. 6 NO. 11 7. MOONLIGHT SONATA BLUES 8. BWV ANH 114 9. OP. 35 NO. 17 10. ROMANCE
London, UK - Sam Coulson is the current guitarist in legendary rock band ASIA. Coulson also has a tremendous following online through his extensive Youtube tuition and performance videos. “Electric Classical” is his FIRST solo album and features guitar interpretations of famous classical works.
Says Sam, “I'm very proud of my first solo Album 'Electric Classical'. It's 10 of my favourite classical pieces played on a couple of Fender Stratocasters. I really enjoyed recording these tracks. I hope you enjoy listening to them!”
Sam Coulson made his debut on YouTube in 2007, sharing videos of himself playing songs on the electric guitar. His playing attracted the attention of guitarist Paul Gilbert, who invited him to be a guest instructor for the Great Guitar Escape he created in July 2012. This would eventually lead to Coulson joining the British rock band Asia. When Asia's guitarist Steve Howe departed from the band in January 2013 in order to pursue other projects, Coulson was selected as his replacement. Coulson has, so far, worked with Asia on their latest studio album, “Gravitas”, released in 2014
Watch Sam Coulson's new promotional video:
Sam Coulson's “Electric Classical” is OUT NOW!
Track Listing:
1. AVE MARIA
2. BWV 1007 PRELUDE
3. OP. 35 NO. 22
4. RECUERDOS DE LA ALHAMBRA
5. VALS VENEZOLANO NO. 2
6. OP. 6 NO. 11
7. MOONLIGHT SONATA BLUES
8. BWV ANH 114
9. OP. 35 NO. 17
10. ROMANCE
London, UK - JOHN WETTON is the lead singer of ASIA, UK and the “Red” era of KING CRIMSON, with an extensive solo catalogue, which now includes “Live via Satellite”
This 2 CD set collects together both of John Wetton’s acoustic solo concerts for radio broadcasts. The XM radio broadcast was only available for sale via his website over 10 years ago and has never had a commercial release.
The Swedish radio broadcast (previously unreleased) was thought lost in a fire, until a duplicate of the master tapes was found thanks to a long and tireless search by John Wetton’s fans.
Of the release, John Wetton said: “Both of these shows are from the same time period, but come from very different sources. The first, a Circus tent-like venue in a funfair in Stockholm: the second, a state-of-the-art facility in Washington DC, so the repertoire is similar, but venues could not be more different. Recording production is superb on both, it's a document of a slice of my life.”
As a lead singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame with King Crimson and after that Wetton co-founded UK. In the early 1980s he was the frontman of the super-group Asia, his biggest commercial success. ASIA’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982 and the band continues to this day.
He later formed the duo Icon with Geoff Downes (YES and The Buggles) and has had a successful solo career releasing a large number of studio and live albums, including the recent compilation The Studio Recordings Anthology.
John Wetton's “Live via Satellite” will be released 9th October 2015 and is part of the ongoing release schedule of his own Primary Purpose label, working via Cherry Red.
DISC ONE 1. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES 2. HEAT OF THE MOMENT 3. BOOK OF SATURDAY 4. BATTLE LINES 5. ARKANGEL 6. THE SMILE HAS LEFT YOUR EYES 7. EASY MONEY 8. EMMA 9. 30 YEARS 10. HOLD ME NOW 11. RENDEZVOUS 6:02 12. THE NIGHT WATCH 13. YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE 14. STARLESS
DISC TWO 1. INTRODUCTION 2. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES 3. HEAT OF THE MOMENT 4. MONDRAGO / BOOK OF SATURDAY 5. THE SMILE HAS LEFT YOUR EYES 6. 30 YEARS 7. HOLD ME NOW 8. ARKANGEL 9. EMMA 10. SOLE SURVIVOR 11. RENDEZVOUS 6:02 12. THE WATER IS WIDE 13. STARLESS 14. BATTLE LINES 15. THE CELTIC CROSS
London, UK - JOHN WETTON is the lead singer of ASIA, UK and the “Red” era of KING CRIMSON, with an extensive solo catalogue, which now includes “Live via Satellite”
This 2 CD set collects together both of John Wetton’s acoustic solo concerts for radio broadcasts. The XM radio broadcast was only available for sale via his website over 10 years ago and has never had a commercial release.
The Swedish radio broadcast (previously unreleased) was thought lost in a fire, until a duplicate of the master tapes was found thanks to a long and tireless search by John Wetton’s fans.
Of the release, John Wetton said: “Both of these shows are from the same time period, but come from very different sources. The first, a Circus tent-like venue in a funfair in Stockholm: the second, a state-of-the-art facility in Washington DC, so the repertoire is similar, but venues could not be more different. Recording production is superb on both, it's a document of a slice of my life.”
As a lead singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame with King Crimson and after that Wetton co-founded UK. In the early 1980s he was the frontman of the super-group Asia, his biggest commercial success. ASIA’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982 and the band continues to this day.
He later formed the duo Icon with Geoff Downes (YES and The Buggles) and has had a successful solo career releasing a large number of studio and live albums, including the recent compilation The Studio Recordings Anthology.
John Wetton's “Live via Satellite” will be released 9th October 2015 and is part of the ongoing release schedule of his own Primary Purpose label, working via Cherry Red.
DISC ONE
1. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES
2. HEAT OF THE MOMENT
3. BOOK OF SATURDAY
4. BATTLE LINES
5. ARKANGEL
6. THE SMILE HAS LEFT YOUR EYES
7. EASY MONEY
8. EMMA
9. 30 YEARS
10. HOLD ME NOW
11. RENDEZVOUS 6:02
12. THE NIGHT WATCH
13. YOU’RE NOT THE ONLY ONE
14. STARLESS
DISC TWO
1. INTRODUCTION
2. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES
3. HEAT OF THE MOMENT
4. MONDRAGO / BOOK OF SATURDAY
5. THE SMILE HAS LEFT YOUR EYES
6. 30 YEARS
7. HOLD ME NOW
8. ARKANGEL
9. EMMA
10. SOLE SURVIVOR
11. RENDEZVOUS 6:02
12. THE WATER IS WIDE
13. STARLESS
14. BATTLE LINES
15. THE CELTIC CROSS
The Rock Pack To Perform At The Germain Arena, Ft Myers, FL. Nov 19, 2015
Fort Myers, FL - November 19th sees the arrival of THE ROCK PACK at The Germain Arena, Ft. Myers, FL.
John Payne, former ASIA lead vocalist and co-creator of the #1 Vegas musical “Raiding the Rock Vault,” has created a unique new event. THE ROCK PACK concert is an incredible 80s rock extravaganza featuring the vocalists and the hits from six major classic rock bands.
The cast of stellar star singers includes Mickey Thomas of STARSHIP, Bobby Kimball original lead singer of TOTO, Steve Walsh formerly of KANSAS, Robin Zander of CHEAP TRICK, Fee Waybill of THE TUBES, and John Payne formerly of ASIA.
This stunning show features the classic hit songs sung by the original singers; Dust in the Wind, I Want You to Want Me, We Built This City, Africa, Surrender, Beauty, The Flame, Rosanna, White Punks on Dope, Carry on My Wayward Son, Dream Police, Hold the Line, Nothing's Gonna Stop Us Now and more.
Ringmaster Payne also extracts interesting stories from the cast of classic rock artists as well as pertinent visuals on huge screens. Throughout the show he sings the ASIA classics Heat Of The Moment, Only Time Will Tell, Sole Survivor, and Time Again.
Prepare yourself for an unprecedented evening of superlative music, enthralling stories and visuals.
THE ROCK PACK, Presented by KDIM Entertainment as part of The Classic Rock Series.
Featuring members of Porcupine Tree, Asia, Yes, Focus, Alan Parsons Project & more!
Los Angeles, CA - Only a world-class orchestra could pull off a project this ambitious, an undertaking so vast that none other than the hallowed halls of Abby Road Studios could contain and record music of this magnitude. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents an epic album of fully orchestrated renditions of progressive rock masterpieces by the likes of Pink Floyd, Yes, ELP, Jethro Tull and more! What’s more, a stellar group of musical virtuosos from the prog rock stratosphere join the orchestra, lending their talents to these intricately arranged masterworks in a collaborative match made in prog rock heaven. Longtime Moody Blues & Yes keyboardist Patrick Moraz adds his own unique flare to the orchestrated version of Gentle Giant’s “Think Of Me With Kindness” while Porcupine Tree drummer Gavin Harrison lays down the rhythm on a brilliant version of King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man.” This album also contains an electrifying contribution by Three Dog Night keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon, sadly, one of the final recordings he made before his passing earlier this year. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Plays Prog Rock Classics will be made available on both CD and vinyl starting March 31 courtesy of Purple Pyramid Records. Fans of progressive rock and epic symphonic rock will not want to miss this!
1. ELP Suite: Tarkus / From The Beginning / Tarkus (Reprise) 2. Comfortably Numb feat. Ian Bairnson 3. Thick As A Brick feat. Richard Harvey 4. 21st Century Schizoid Man feat. Gavin Harrison and Guthrie Govan 5. Focus II feat. Thijs Van Leer 6. Nights In White Satin feat. Mark Feltham 7. Think Of Me With Kindness feat. Patrick Moraz 8. Roundabout feat. Jimmy Greenspoon 9. Watcher Of The Skies [CD ONLY] 10. Red Barchetta feat. Adrian Smith [CD ONLY]
Featuring members of Porcupine Tree, Asia, Yes, Focus, Alan Parsons Project & more!
Los Angeles, CA - Only a world-class orchestra could pull off a project this ambitious, an undertaking so vast that none other than the hallowed halls of Abby Road Studios could contain and record music of this magnitude. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra proudly presents an epic album of fully orchestrated renditions of progressive rock masterpieces by the likes of Pink Floyd, Yes, ELP, Jethro Tull and more! What’s more, a stellar group of musical virtuosos from the prog rock stratosphere join the orchestra, lending their talents to these intricately arranged masterworks in a collaborative match made in prog rock heaven. Longtime Moody Blues & Yes keyboardist Patrick Moraz adds his own unique flare to the orchestrated version of Gentle Giant’s “Think Of Me With Kindness” while Porcupine Tree drummer Gavin Harrison lays down the rhythm on a brilliant version of King Crimson’s “21st Century Schizoid Man.” This album also contains an electrifying contribution by Three Dog Night keyboardist Jimmy Greenspoon, sadly, one of the final recordings he made before his passing earlier this year. The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra Plays Prog Rock Classics will be made available on both CD and vinyl starting March 31 courtesy of Purple Pyramid Records. Fans of progressive rock and epic symphonic rock will not want to miss this!
1. ELP Suite: Tarkus / From The Beginning / Tarkus (Reprise) 2. Comfortably Numb feat. Ian Bairnson 3. Thick As A Brick feat. Richard Harvey 4. 21st Century Schizoid Man feat. Gavin Harrison and Guthrie Govan 5. Focus II feat. Thijs Van Leer 6. Nights In White Satin feat. Mark Feltham 7. Think Of Me With Kindness feat. Patrick Moraz 8. Roundabout feat. Jimmy Greenspoon 9. Watcher Of The Skies [CD ONLY] 10. Red Barchetta feat. Adrian Smith [CD ONLY]
London, UK - Legendary John Wetton, best known for his work with Asia, UK and King Crimson, is releasing two new albums this month: The Studio Recordings Anthology 2CD Set and New York Minute - John Wetton & The Les Paul Trio, on Primary Purpose via Cherry Red Records.
As a singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame as the lead singer of King Crimson and thereafter Wetton formed UK with Eddie Jobson and later he was the lead vocalist of the supergroup Asia, his biggest commercial success. The band’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982.
Wetton also has a successful solo career releasing a large number of studio and live albums and these are showcased on the 2CD ‘The Studio Recordings Anthology’ meanwhile a unique live album with The Les Paul Trio includes a number of songs Wetton has never sung elsewhere.
The Studio Recordings Anthology 2CD Set
The Studio Anthology collects together the best of John Wetton's six solo studio albums within a 2-CD set with extensive new liner notes.
DISC ONE 1. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES 2. THE LAST THING ON MY MIND 3. HOLD ME NOW 4. WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? 5. ANOTHER TWIST OF THE KNIFE 6. I'VE COME TO TAKE YOU HOME 7. I CAN'T LIE ANYMORE 8. LOST FOR WORDS 9. BATTLE LINES 10. CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE 11. ARKANGEL 12. RIGHT WHERE I WANTED TO BE 13. NOTHING'S GONNA STAND IN OUR WAY 14. SECOND BEST 15. WOMAN 16. REAL WORLD
DISC TWO 1. HEART OF DARKNESS 2. SAY IT AIN'T SO 3. COLD IS THE NIGHT 4. YOU'RE NOT THE ONLY ONE 5. RAISED IN CAPTIVITY 6. STEFFI'S RING 7. WALKING ON AIR 8. TAKE ME TO THE WATERLINE 9. SILENTLY 10. BATTLE LINES (ACOUSTIC) 11. I LAY DOWN 12. ROCK OF FAITH 13. WHO WILL LIGHT A CANDLE? 14. YOU AGAINST THE WORLD 15. EMMA 16. AFTER ALL
New York Minute sees John Wetton playing a selection of the songs that inspired him, many of which are not available on any other release. This new live album also includes unique renditions of his solo hit BATTLE LINES and the ASIA mega hit HEAT OF THE MOMENT.
Track Listing:
1. DO IT AGAIN 2. WHAT’S GOING ON? 3. GOD ONLY KNOWS 4. CAN’T FIND MY WAY HOME 5. ALL ALONG THE WATCHTOWER 6. NEW YORK MINUTE 7. LADY MADONNA 8. HEAT OF THE MOMENT 9. BATTLE LINES
London, UK - Legendary John Wetton, best known for his work with Asia, UK and King Crimson, is releasing two new albums this month: The Studio Recordings Anthology 2CD Set and New York Minute - John Wetton & The Les Paul Trio, on Primary Purpose via Cherry Red Records.
As a singer, bassist and songwriter, John Wetton initially rose to fame as the lead singer of King Crimson and thereafter Wetton formed UK with Eddie Jobson and later he was the lead vocalist of the supergroup Asia, his biggest commercial success. The band’s self-titled debut album was the biggest selling album in the world in 1982.
Wetton also has a successful solo career releasing a large number of studio and live albums and these are showcased on the 2CD ‘The Studio Recordings Anthology’ meanwhile a unique live album with The Les Paul Trio includes a number of songs Wetton has never sung elsewhere.
The Studio Recordings Anthology 2CD Set
The Studio Anthology collects together the best of John Wetton's six solo studio albums within a 2-CD set with extensive new liner notes.
DISC ONE 1. THE CIRCLE OF ST. GILES 2. THE LAST THING ON MY MIND 3. HOLD ME NOW 4. WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE? 5. ANOTHER TWIST OF THE KNIFE 6. I'VE COME TO TAKE YOU HOME 7. I CAN'T LIE ANYMORE 8. LOST FOR WORDS 9. BATTLE LINES 10. CAUGHT IN THE CROSSFIRE 11. ARKANGEL 12. RIGHT WHERE I WANTED TO BE 13. NOTHING'S GONNA STAND IN OUR WAY 14. SECOND BEST 15. WOMAN 16. REAL WORLD
DISC TWO 1. HEART OF DARKNESS 2. SAY IT AIN'T SO 3. COLD IS THE NIGHT 4. YOU'RE NOT THE ONLY ONE 5. RAISED IN CAPTIVITY 6. STEFFI'S RING 7. WALKING ON AIR 8. TAKE ME TO THE WATERLINE 9. SILENTLY 10. BATTLE LINES (ACOUSTIC) 11. I LAY DOWN 12. ROCK OF FAITH 13. WHO WILL LIGHT A CANDLE? 14. YOU AGAINST THE WORLD 15. EMMA 16. AFTER ALL
New York Minute sees John Wetton playing a selection of the songs that inspired him, many of which are not available on any other release. This new live album also includes unique renditions of his solo hit BATTLE LINES and the ASIA mega hit HEAT OF THE MOMENT.
Track Listing:
1. DO IT AGAIN 2. WHAT’S GOING ON? 3. GOD ONLY KNOWS 4. CAN’T FIND MY WAY HOME 5. ALL ALONG THE WATCHTOWER 6. NEW YORK MINUTE 7. LADY MADONNA 8. HEAT OF THE MOMENT 9. BATTLE LINES
London, UK – Prog fans rejoice! A new live CD capturing a set of King Crimson songs performed by District 97 and former King Crimson lead singer John Wetton has been released on Primary Purpose via Cherry Red Records.
'One More Red Night: Live In Chicago' includes three songs from the iconic landmark album 'Red’; which inspired many musicians including Kurt Cobain. This CD also captures several other well-known songs from the three King Crimson studio albums John Wetton played and sang on, plus their earlier hit “21st Century Schizoid Man”. This is the first release of this recording and features many tracks which are now rarely heard live.
“I've said it before, and I maintain that D97 is the best young progressive band around right now. Gifted players, great material, and a brilliant, charismatic singer in Leslie Hunt. Their shows are an exciting pleasure to attend, and I am proud to work, and be associated with them.” - John Wetton, Annapolis, October 1,2014.
District 97's drummer and 'One More Red Night' producer, Jonathan Schang, says “The first Crimson song I ever played live with John was 'Lament'. To hear 'that voice' coming from right in front of me, seemingly made only stronger by the passage of time, was an experience I shall never forget. Getting to know John more closely, both as a musician and a human being, is an honor and a privilege. I'm thrilled that our joint interpretations of his iconic work with King Crimson are now available for all to enjoy.”
TRACK LIST:
1. ONE MORE RED NIGHTMARE 2. THE GREAT DECEIVER 3. LAMENT 4. THE NIGHT WATCH 5. FALLEN ANGEL 6. BOOK OF SATURDAY 7. 21ST CENTURY SCHIZOID MAN 8. STARLESS 9. EASY MONEY
John Wetton’s last solo project was a 2 CD re-issue of Monkey Business and Jack-knife, the former of which includes many of his early 1970s versions of tracks that went on to become some of King Crimson’s most iconic songs:
London, UK – Prog fans rejoice! A new live CD capturing a set of King Crimson songs performed by District 97 and former King Crimson lead singer John Wetton has been released on Primary Purpose via Cherry Red Records.
'One More Red Night: Live In Chicago' includes three songs from the iconic landmark album 'Red’; which inspired many musicians including Kurt Cobain. This CD also captures several other well-known songs from the three King Crimson studio albums John Wetton played and sang on, plus their earlier hit “21st Century Schizoid Man”. This is the first release of this recording and features many tracks which are now rarely heard live.
“I've said it before, and I maintain that D97 is the best young progressive band around right now. Gifted players, great material, and a brilliant, charismatic singer in Leslie Hunt. Their shows are an exciting pleasure to attend, and I am proud to work, and be associated with them.” - John Wetton, Annapolis, October 1,2014.
District 97's drummer and 'One More Red Night' producer, Jonathan Schang, says “The first Crimson song I ever played live with John was 'Lament'. To hear 'that voice' coming from right in front of me, seemingly made only stronger by the passage of time, was an experience I shall never forget. Getting to know John more closely, both as a musician and a human being, is an honor and a privilege. I'm thrilled that our joint interpretations of his iconic work with King Crimson are now available for all to enjoy.”
TRACK LIST:
1. ONE MORE RED NIGHTMARE 2. THE GREAT DECEIVER 3. LAMENT 4. THE NIGHT WATCH 5. FALLEN ANGEL 6. BOOK OF SATURDAY 7. 21ST CENTURY SCHIZOID MAN 8. STARLESS 9. EASY MONEY
John Wetton’s last solo project was a 2 CD re-issue of Monkey Business and Jack-knife, the former of which includes many of his early 1970s versions of tracks that went on to become some of King Crimson’s most iconic songs:
