Aura

Now Asia is a very special band in my heart, I have all their records and I've been a huge fan in the past. I still like to put the good old songs on the CD player from time to time. When I received that promo I couldn't believe they were still existing and I must say I'm very happy about it. Now I didn't have much expectations about that album since I wasn't expecting it :), but as soon as I had it in my hands it reminded me of Aqua (my fav. Asia album) and hoped this one would be as good. The music is still very sweet, and although I like Asia, they don't belong in the "metal" category... they are Pop / Rock. The keyboards holds the entire musical atmospheric moment like always in this band and of course the excellent, hypnotizing vocals of John Payne, which haven't changed a bit. The guitar are very shy (but that's almost always the case with Asia), although their sound is really warm. Unfortunately this new Asia doesn't have much new to offer... it's plain standard Asia, too standard actually. There are a couple of good songs, but nothing thrilling in the end. Of course its not a bad album, but it won't left you with an unforgettable souvenir that's for sure... So was the Arena album, although I prefer this one. Not a bad album at all but a bit disappointing coming from this legendary band. This is only for people who like soft music or want to make metal breaks then and there (or please their nonmetal fan girlfriend :) ), or also simply for Asia fans.