Asia Announces New Album ‘Indigo’ Featuring Late Frontman John Wetton’s Contributions
British progressive rock supergroup Asia has officially announced the release of their 14th studio album, titled Indigo, set to hit the shelves on November 6. This upcoming album serves as a follow-up to their 2014 release, Gravitas, and promises to deliver a fresh sound while honoring the legacy of the band.
Album Highlights
Indigo will include two tracks penned by the band’s late frontman, John Wetton. The album features guest appearances from notable musicians such as Steve Howe, the former guitarist of Yes, and Mike Portnoy, the renowned drummer from Dream Theater.
Lead Single and Video Release
To tease the new album, Asia has released a music video for the lead track, “The Traveller (Into the Light)”. This energetic piece showcases the band’s signature sound, incorporating progressive elements while maintaining an accessible chorus—an aspect that has always been a hallmark of Asia’s music. The video can be viewed below, along with the complete track listing for Indigo.
Track List for ‘Indigo’
- The Traveller (Into the Light)
- Change of Heart
- Arcadia
- Is This The Life?
- Tattoo Indigo (Part 1)
- Tattoo Indigo (Part 2)
- Tattoo Indigo (Part 3)
- Life in The Sun
- Hymn for The Fallen
- Night and Day
- Valencia (The Ghost Ship)
- An Elegy
- Chesapeake Bay
- On a Winter’s Night
- Echo of You
Band Lineup and Creative Process
This will be the first time Asia’s current lineup will be featured on a studio record. Co-founder Geoff Downes is joined by guitarist John Mitchell of It Bites and Lonely Robot, drummer Virgil Donati from Planet X, and bassist/vocalist Harry Whitley.
Downes expressed his enthusiasm about the new project, stating, “The first track off the album is a high-power energy piece.” He elaborated on his collaboration with Wetton, noting that they had begun writing new material shortly after the release of Gravitas. The two songs that made it onto the album, “Tattoo Indigo (Parts 2 & 3)” and “Chesapeake Bay”, were written during this period, with Howe and Portnoy contributing their talents to the latter.
Honoring a Legacy
Reflecting on Wetton’s illness and passing, Downes shared, “It was with great sadness that John became seriously ill during this time, and we had put on hold our plans. Sadly John passed away before we could continue and complete it. So it was always in my mind that it would be a shame not to finish off some of these songs.”
Conclusion
The release of Indigo marks an important chapter for Asia, as they continue to evolve while honoring the contributions of their past members. With a combination of fresh talent and the legacy of John Wetton, the band aims to inspire both longtime fans and new listeners alike. The anticipation for the album is palpable, and with the lead single already out, fans are eager to hear what else is in store.
FAQs
When will Asia’s new album ‘Indigo’ be released?
‘Indigo’ is set to be released on November 6.
Which tracks on ‘Indigo’ were written by John Wetton?
Two tracks titled “Tattoo Indigo (Parts 2 & 3)” and “Chesapeake Bay” were written by John Wetton.
Who are the current members of Asia featured in ‘Indigo’?
The current lineup includes Geoff Downes, John Mitchell, Virgil Donati, and Harry Whitley.
Is there a music video available for any of the tracks from ‘Indigo’?
Yes, a music video for the lead track “The Traveller (Into the Light)” has been released.
Will there be guest musicians on the album?
Yes, the album features guest appearances by Steve Howe and Mike Portnoy.
