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WETTON/DOWNES
Mean Fiddler, London, 3 March 2006
Not an overly packed Mean Fiddler which was surprising given all
the activity in the Asia camp of late, what with the original Asia
reforming and John Payne forming One. Here we have two original Asia
members, John Wetton and Geoff Downes, joined by the very talented
guitarist/vocalist John Mitchell (Kino/Arena) and drummer Steve
Christey (Jadis/Wetton solo).
After a harmonica intro by John Wetton we were off into classic
Asia with 'The Heat Goes On', quickly followed by 'Only Time Will
Tell'. Wetton was in fine voice and although he missed a few lines
which is easily done! Great to see 'Astra' tunes getting a look in
especially the harmony loaded 'Voice of America'.
Only three tracks of the Wetton/Downes 'Icon' album got an airing with 'Hey Josephine'
getting the best crowd reaction - most probably as it was the most
Asia sounding tune. 'Days Like These' is one of my favourate Asia
songs and a joy to hear it played tonight. Downes & Wetton seemed to
slot into the groove with ease and it will be great to see them with
Howe & Palmer. Mind you John Mitchell and Steve Christey were more
than capable of covering both the Asia material and the Wetton solo
songs of which 'We Move As One' was a highlight.
Closing with 'Heat of the Moment' it was fine night of Asia and
solo material. Hopefully Wetton & Downes can fins time to tour again
and fit another album in between the original Asia reunion tour.
Review by Jason Ritchie
Set list: The Heat Goes On, Only Time Will Tell, Voice of America, Lay Down, Hey Josephine, Days Like These, Video Killed the Radio Star (Geoff Downes solo spot), We Move As One *, Meet Me At Midnight *, Emma *, Battle Lines *, Don't Cry, Open Your Eyes, Go, Sole Survivor, (Encore)Heat of the Moment
* Acoustic set
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