Search - John Wetton, Geoffrey Downes :: Icon: Acoustic TV Broadcast

Great Acoustic Album from Wetton and Downes.

Louie Bourland | Garden Grove CA | 05/04/2007

(5 out of 5 stars)

"The reunion of Asia's Geoff Downes and John Wetton has been one of the most anticipated in rock music history. Although, Wetton and Downes use the name of iCon instead of Asia when they perform as a duo, the sound is still unmistakably Asia.

Prior to the successful Asia reunion tour that is presently taking place, Wetton and Downes had already been doing several iCon concerts and had recorded a very successful album of the same name. One of the engagements that the duo performed is the acoustic television special which is captured on this CD.

Together, Wetton and Downes along with former Electric Light Orchestra member Hugh McDowell on cello perform stellar stripped down arrangements of Asia classic as well as recent iCon works. With much of the trademark synthesized orchestration wiped away leaving just piano, acoustic guitar and cello (with some vocal and subtle keyboard overdubs), we are offered a very intimate and personal glimpse into the genuine beauty of these classic tunes. While John Wetton's voice has aged somewhat over the years, he still sings in a very powerful and commanding tone that has always been his trademark. Geoff Downes melodic piano work on this disc is highly emotional and is simply beautiful to listen to.

For fans of the early days of Asia, this CD is definitely a must. The arrangements as well as the sound of the entire disc are outstanding. While they are both a little bit older now, this disc proves that Wetton and Downes have never lost their magic depsite not working together for over a decade. This is definitely a welcome return for one of the best songwriting duos ever."