October 24, 2008
Hot on the heels of Asia’s successful comeback album Phoenix
, keyboardist Geoff Downes and bassist/vocalist John Wetton are gearing up for the launch of their third Wetton/Downes studio album. But first, they’re planning on some live dates in Japan to debut some of the new material. In addition to those dates, they are also scheduled to record a special show in the UK for an upcoming DVD release. I’m personally surprised Wetton and Downes (as well as Asia/Yes guitarist Steve Howe) continue to dilute their audience base like this. If it were up to me, I’d capitalize on the success of Phoenix and extend the tour under the Asia moniker or use the time to record a followup album. That way, the momentum isn’t lost. Instead, we have Howe touring as “Yes” without Jon Anderson and Wetton/Downes releasing material that most likely could have been material for another Asia album. But knowing the convoluted history of two bands, I guess it’s just more of the same.
The Wetton/Downes touring band includes – John Wetton, Geoff Downes, Dave Kilminster and Pete Riley.
upcoming dates:
February 7, 2009 Fukuoka
February 9, 2009 Osaka
February 11, 2009 Tokyo
February 12, 2009 Tokyo
February 21, 2009 St. Mary-Le-Bow Church, London
Related posts:
- Wetton – Downes – Icon 3 – review
- Yes – In the Present tour dates canceled – Chris Squire
- Wetton/Downes – back in the studio
- Phoenix by Asia
- Asia: the lost years
Filed under:
music by retroDan
They are all doing what they want at this stage of their careers. These guys are all in their 60’s…or very close to it. The time to do what the record company wants is long since past. Asia are supposed to continue the tour in support of Phoenix later this month, with a tour of Russian Europe, the UK etc. They are also supposed to be returning to the states this summer. So they are continuing to capitalize on the success of Phoenix. They are simply taking a brief break of a few months in order to be diverse. How would you like to tour at the age of 60? I think they have done a fantastic job getting my favorite band ever back together and active again. It’s been a blessing, and I’m thankful for it everyday! Asia has truly “arisen from the ashes” like the firebird to be reborn! Don’t miss seeing them live…they are amazing!