Asia - Omega (Frontiers Records) ****1/2

Omega is an album Asia should have followed the return of the original line up. The band released Phoenix in 2008, but the album lacked a solid punch, and was simply too thin and too soft. Omega however is a more than a proper return to the rightful place.

This album has all of the components that made Asia's debut album a sensation back in 1982. From the first song, Finger On The Trigger, Omega just rocks. The songs flow with a very natural melody, nothing is forced here. The layering is superb, these instrumentalists just get better and better. Nothing is overplayed, every sound has a clear purpose.

The songs are instantly memorable, and if the radio format was still AOR oriented many hits would follow. Omega is a very addictive listen, once you get into the record it is difficult to put it away. The production is very balanced, and clearly brings the best out of the songs. Omega proves there is still a lot of life and passion left in Asia.

Mark Kadzielawa