What makes Astra by Asia notable?

Astra marked a departure from the band's earlier sound, featuring more synthesizers and a polished production style which received mixed reviews upon release. The album peaked at number 46 on the Billboard 200, showcasing Asia's struggle to maintain mainstream appeal during the evolving rock scene of the mid-'80s. Released in 1985, Astra was Asia's fourth studio album, following their commercial peak with 'Alpha' in 1983. By this time, the band was navigating lineup changes and striving to reinvigorate their sound amidst a shifting music landscape.

Astra works well if you're into long, immersive listening sessions, dynamic emotional journeys and atmospheric background focus.

How many songs are on Astra?

Astra has 10 tracks, running approximately 45 minutes.

Astra

Asia · 1985

45 min · 10 tracks · progressive rock

Astra blends atmospheric synths and melodic guitar work, creating a lush soundscape that defines mid-'80s progressive rock.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

long, immersive listening sessions
dynamic emotional journeys
atmospheric background focus
gradual builds and payoffs

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1985, Astra was Asia's fourth studio album, following their commercial peak with 'Alpha' in 1983. By this time, the band was navigating lineup changes and striving to reinvigorate their sound amidst a shifting music landscape.
Stylistic neighbors: Yes· Emerson, Lake & Palmer· Genesis

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Go 4:08
2 Voice of America 4:28
3 Hard on Me 3:36
4 Wishing 4:16
5 Countdown to Zero 4:17
6 Love Now Til Eternity 4:13
7 Too Late 4:14
8 Suspicion 3:46
9 Rock and Roll Dream 6:52
10 After the War 5:10

What to play next

Listen next

Aurora

1986

Go back to

Alpha

1983

Full Asia discography Artists like Asia

progressive rock

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata