ASIA – In the heat of the rock moments

1.       Hello guys, how is going the preparation for the new album?

It’s been very well received, so we’re pleased with the result.

2.       Can you let us know all the details about your new release?

The album’s called XXX to celebrate the 30th Anniversary of the band.

3.       There is a new promo video for the song “Face on the bridge”. Could you give use details about the video shooting?

Was all done in one day, shot in the Buckinghamshire countryside outside the studio where we recorded the album.

4.       The single of Face on the bridge is already successful in UK charts, right?

It’s certainly done well on all the rock charts.

5.       A new live DVD is also on the way; please let us know about it.

This was filmed during the Omega European tour in Basel, Switzerland. It’s called ‘Resonance’.

6.       What’s the line up of the band right now and do you intend to continue with the same line up in the future?

The only way there will be a band called Asia now and in the future, is if all 4 original members are present.

7.       Roger Dean has been the original illustrator of your albums for many years. Is he still present in your new album? Let us know about the artwork.

Roger was asked to elaborate a design based on the 1st album sleeve. The XXX artwork is an extension of that.

8.   Do you still enjoy playing “Heat of the moment” on stage?

Yes, it’s still a buzz. After all, it’s our signature tune.

9.   How do you plan your set list?

We kick the ideas around, trying to blend in newer material with the more classic stuff, then see how best to present it.

10.   You have a great catalogue in terms of band or solo efforts. Has the internet piracy affected the royalties from your catalogue?

I’m sure we are all losing royalties due to piracy. Unfortunately it’s nothing new, and little we can do about it.

11.   How do you stay in touch with your fans?

Via Websites, Guestbooks, Twitter, Facebook etc – social networking seems to be the way it all works now.

12.   Do you work in other personal projects at the moment?

Yes. I think we’ve all got other various projects on the go, but when we commit to working with Asia, it becomes a full time occupation for a while.

13.   How many copies did your last album of Asia sell and which is the best market for Asia?

Not sure on that. We’re fortunate in that we have fans all over the world. We enjoy playing to them wherever they are.

14.   Does the imbalance between Euro and US$ affect your tour plan?

We concentrate on the music. The currency exchange is for others to speculate in.

15.   Would you like to comment on the economic crisis in Europe and especially in Greece?

As per previous question, we’re just musicians – not politicians!

16.   What would you advise the new bands?

Stick with your ideals, whatever other people might say.

Info: http://www.originalasia.com/