Axioms cover

Axioms

Asia · 1999

110 min · 23 tracks · progressive rock

Melodic progressive rock layered with lush harmonies, intricate arrangements, and introspective lyrics that explore themes of love and conflict.

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Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Bella Nova Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
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    The Day Before the War — This track stands out for its poignant exploration of conflict and human experience, drawing parallels to real-world events that resonate deeply with listeners. Its extended arrangement features dynamic shifts that exemplify the band's signature progressive style.
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    Who Will Stop the Rain — With its haunting melody and evocative lyrics, this song delves into themes of uncertainty and longing, capturing a sense of melancholy that permeates the album. It showcases the band's ability to blend emotional depth with melodic sophistication.
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    Love Under Fire — This track highlights Asia's characteristic blend of rock and emotion, featuring compelling guitar work and harmonized vocals that elevate its narrative about love amidst turmoil. It encapsulates the album's overarching motifs effectively.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic progression with emotional peaks
  • contemplative listening for introspection
  • late-night reflective moods
  • immersive experience across two halves
  • melodic waves that invite thought

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward, short tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Released after a hiatus, it shows Asia's continued evolution in sound and relevance.
Themes
post-war reflection· love amidst conflict
Career context
Released in 1999, Axioms marked Asia's return after a significant hiatus since their previous album, Aria, in 1994. This period saw lineup changes and a desire to evolve their sound while still retaining their progressive rock roots. The album represents a renewed creative direction for the band during a time when they sought to reconnect with their audience.
Stylistic neighbors
Yes· Emerson, Lake & Palmer· Genesis
New to Asia? Find your way in →

Tracklist

Disc 1

  • 1 Bella Nova Start here 3:11
  • 2 Who Will Stop the Rain 4:37
  • 3 Heaven on Earth 4:55
  • 4 Words 5:17
  • 5 Turn It Around 4:29
  • 6 Summer 4:07
  • 7 Heaven 5:17
  • 8 A Far Cry 5:31
  • 9 Love Under Fire 5:16
  • 10 Tell Me Why 5:14
  • 11 Anytime 4:57
  • 12 Aqua, Part 2 2:14

Disc 2

  • 1 Into the Arena 3:02
  • 2 Military Man 4:10
  • 3 The Hunter 5:21
  • 4 Desire 5:21
  • 5 Sad Situation 3:59
  • 6 The Day Before the War 9:09
  • 7 Feels Like Love 4:50
  • 8 Different Worlds 5:53
  • 9 Remembrance Day 4:19
  • 10 U Bring Me Down 7:06
  • 11 Aria 2:27

What to play next

Aura
Listen next

Aura

2001

Continues the melodic progressive rock style with rich arrangements and introspective themes.
Live Acoustic
Go back to

Live Acoustic

1999

Sets up the acoustic elements and emotional depth leading into Axioms.
Full Asia discography Where to start with Asia Artists like Asia
progressive rock

If this landed

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V

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Stardust We Are

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The Flower Kings

Shares rich harmonies and complex structures, delving into themes of love intertwined with existential musings.

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata