SYMFONIA - LIVE IN BULGARIA 2013

We knew what to expect with this new live release from Asia because it's again the Italian Frontiers Music that his behind this like the last Asia and Yes live releases. They choose to presents shorts concerts in stereo only with limited extras. The line-up is about the same with Wetton, Palmer, Downes but this time Sam Coulson is taking the place of Steve Howe. The concert was shot in 2013. The band has added the Plovdiv Opera Orchestra to play some songs. I always have my doubts about the inclusion of an orchestra with a rock band because we can't always capture their sound with the electric guitar. The set list here has no real surprise with their best early tracks from their first albums and another bunch of later tracks. The light show here is minimal and doesn't add much to the professional performance of a band that is used to the live experience after 35 years. I would recommend this for the Asia fans and not to all progressive rock fans since the music of Asia is not the most adventurous thing, but can give you some good entertainment for 80 minutes here.