Asia Members, Gear & Sound
UK progressive rock band
Members
Select a Asia band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
Roles:
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
- See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
-
See Gear
No gear addedRoles:
-
See Gear
No gear addedRoles:
About
Asia is a British rock supergroup formed in 1981, known for its blend of progressive rock, arena rock, and soft rock. The original lineup consisted of John Wetton (bass, vocals), Steve Howe (guitar), Geoff Downes (keyboards), and Carl Palmer (drums), all of whom brought their rich experience from iconic bands like King Crimson, Yes, The Buggles, and Emerson, Lake & Palmer. Asia's self-titled debut album, released in 1982, became a massive commercial success, cementing their place in the rock landscape with its melodic hooks and intricate arrangements.
How to Sound Like Asia
Asia's sound is characterized by lush, symphonic textures and dynamic rock elements. The music often features clean yet powerful guitar lines courtesy of Steve Howe, whose use of guitars like the Gibson Les Paul Custom adds a classic rock edge. Geoff Downes' keyboards provide a rich, layered backdrop, creating an expansive atmosphere that is both melodic and grand. The rhythmic precision of Carl Palmer’s drumming complements this with intricate patterns that drive the music forward. To emulate Asia’s sound, a guitarist might employ chorus and reverb effects to achieve a wide, open feel, while a keyboardist might utilize synthesizers for lush, orchestral sounds. This blend of melodic sophistication and rock energy is what gives Asia its enduring appeal.
Discography
Asia
1982
Alpha
1983
Astra
1985
Then & Now
1990
Aqua
1992
Fantasia: Live in Tokyo
2007
Phoenix
2008
Omega
2010
XXX
2012
Gravitas
2014
Axis XXX Live San Francisco
2015
Symfonia - Live in Bulgaria 2013
2017
Live at Kleinhans Music Hall, Buffalo, NY, USA, 3 May 1982
2021
Live at Centrum, Worcester MA, USA, 22 August 1983
2021
Live at The Credicard Hall São Paulo, Brazil, 23 March 2007
2021
Aurora (Live)
2021
Asia in Asia - Live at The Budokan, Tokyo, 1983
2022
Live at the Stanley Theatre, Pittsburgh, PA, USA, 25 April 1982
2023
Live at the Carling Academy, Glasgow, UK, 30 November 2006
2023
Live at the Teatro Colegiales, Buenos Aires, Argentina, 2011
2023
Live at the International Forum, Tokyo, Japan, First Night, 12 May 2008
2023
Live at the Pabst Theatre, Milwaukee, Wi, USA, 23 April 2008
2023
Live at HMV Forum, London, UK, 14 December 2010
2024
Live at Luz de Gas, Barcelona, Spain, 19 May, 2008
2024
Live at The Cambridge Rock Festival, Cambridge, UK, 9 August 2009
2024
Live at Amagasaki-shi Sougou, Amagasaki, Japan, 24 September 1990
2025
Live at Nakano Sunplaza, Tokyo, Japan, 29 September 1990
2025
Live at the Frankfurt Music Hall, Frankfurt, Germany, 13 December 1990
2025
Get the Asia Sound
Want to sound like Asia? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
