#ASIA HEAT OF THE MOMENT PROFESSIONAL#

It was the best-selling album of 1982 in the US. Asia was certified 4x-platinum in the US by the RIAA on 10 February 1995. Upon its release in March 1982, Asia reached #1 in the US and spent nine weeks at the top of the Billboard album chart. In a retrospective review for AllMusic, Tom Demalon awarded Asia four-and-a-half out of five, saying that 'there's no denying the epic grandeur of the music, which provided some much-needed muscle to radio at the time, and did so with style'. On the other side, in a Billboard review, it was favourably noted that 'the caliber of the playing is superb and the music sounds fresh and perfect fare for AOR'. He stated that it had been a rare occasion that 'a big new group is bad enough to sink your teeth into any more' and called the album 'pompous – schlock in the grand manner'. Robert Christgau blasted the album, and particularly its lyrics. Since its release, Asia has received highly mixed reception, largely due to a more commercial and pop-oriented sound as opposed to progressive rock, given the past of the group's members.

#ASIA HEAT OF THE MOMENT PROFESSIONAL#

Critical reception Professional ratings Review scores Geffen's John Kalodner did not initially like Dean's logo for the band. There was a concern that having Dean do the cover would produce something that looked too much like his famed artwork for Yes, but Howe and Downes pushed for his involvement. The debut album's art depicts a sea serpent gazing into a crystal orb. 4 2010 Audio Fidelity remastered editionĪsia's logo and cover artwork were created by Roger Dean, known for his work with Yes (of which guitarist Steve Howe and keyboard player Geoff Downes were previous members) and Uriah Heep (of which bassist/vocalist John Wetton had previously been a member).

Asia heat of the moment