The world does not need another live Asia album. Not even the most hardened Asia lovers need another live album. But, if we must….as least make it one that’s half listenable.
This is not the best live recording, which at times sounds like an audience recorded bootleg. The vocals are hollow and the bass thumps along above the guitars and drums. A dreadful mix.
The band sadly sounds its age here. John Wetton’s once silky smooth vocals are pretty raspy in places.
The band has some incredible songs – several from the debut album here and mixed with a few from recent years, but this is not an advert for the band at its best.
The accompanying DVD adds a little more value, but this is not the most visually active band around. Drummer Carl Palmer is the most animated on stage throughout the show. Guitarist Steve Howe continues to give Stones drummer Charlie Watts a run for his money in the ‘awkward skinny old white dudes in rock’ race.
I can’t be sure, but I think the guys are having fun on stage…I think I saw a smile during Heat Of The Moment.
Avoid unless you desperately need to make up your CD quota for the month or you are a card carrying member of the Asia-Forever fan club.
