By David O’Neill
You can count on one hand the number of early‑’80s supergroups that still pack a punch four decades later — and Asia, bless ‘em, are still throwing musical haymakers. ‘Live in England’ isn’t just a nostalgia trip; it’s a vibrant reminder of why I fell head over heels for these melodic prog heroes back when vinyl was king and ‘Heat of the Moment’ ruled the airwaves.
Recorded across three shows in 2025, Geoff Downes leads a re‑energised outfit with a swagger that would shame bands half their age. Virgil Donati’s thunderous stick work gives ‘Time Again’ and ‘Wildest Dreams’ their teeth back, while John Mitchell brings just enough bite to those trademark guitar lines without ever trying to be Steve Howe. Then there’s Harry Whitely — a revelation behind the mic — nailing those soaring choruses that once defined my twenties soundtrack.
Downes, ever the magician, weaves those synths like a master storyteller. ‘One Step Closer’ still gives me chills, and Sole Survivor remains an anthem for anyone who believes melody and muscle can peacefully coexist. The production is punchy, polished, yet raw enough to feel alive — no sterile nostalgia here.
The extras seal the deal: ‘Ride Easy’ still sounds glorious, ‘Video Killed The Radio Star’ is a cheeky wink to the past, and ‘The Heat Goes On’ proves it still really does.
Asia may have been born of prog royalty, but ‘Live in England’ shows they’ve still got the fire, finesse and heart that made them giants in the first place.
If this is volume one could there be two, and three? Only time will tell!
- ‘Live In England‘ is out now.
- © Über Röck 2026.