Is Gravitas a good place to start with Asia?

Yes, Gravitas is recommended as a starting point for new Asia listeners. A rich tapestry of progressive rock, melding intricate instrumentals with introspective lyrics and soaring vocals. Released in 2014, Gravitas is Asia's first studio album after the departure of original member Steve Howe. This period marked a significant shift for the band, as they sought to redefine their sound while maintaining their signature melodic style. It followed their previous album, Omega, and aimed to explore deeper themes musically and lyrically.

Gravitas works well if you're into steady progression with resolution, introspective themes for reflection and heartfelt melodies for quiet moments.

How many songs are on Gravitas?

Gravitas has 11 tracks, running approximately 58 minutes.

Gravitas

Asia · 2014

58 min · 11 tracks · progressive rock

A rich tapestry of progressive rock, melding intricate instrumentals with introspective lyrics and soaring vocals.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Valkyrie Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Gravitas — The title track features complex arrangements that encapsulate the album's themes of introspection and resilience, marking a pivotal moment in Asia's sonic journey.
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The Closer I Get to You — This track blends heartfelt lyrics with lush instrumentation, showcasing the band's ability to convey deep emotion through both melody and harmony.
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Nyctophobia — Exploring themes of fear and uncertainty, this song highlights the band's lyrical sophistication while delivering a compelling musical experience.
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Joe DiMaggio’s Glove — With its nostalgic narrative about baseball legend Joe DiMaggio, this track presents a unique storytelling approach that stands out in the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

49 /100

Foothills

Higher than 22% of albums we've rated

The album showcases ambitious compositions but lacks the cohesion and impact of earlier works.

What we noticed

The album features extended tracks with multiple sections, such as 'Gravitas' which includes both 'Lento' and 'Gravitas' as distinct movements.
Several songs incorporate intricate instrumental passages that showcase the musicianship of the band, particularly in tracks like 'Russian Dolls'.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady progression with resolution
introspective themes for reflection
heartfelt melodies for quiet moments
thoughtful listening during solitude

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced excitement
prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Represents a shift in sound after a key member's departure, showcasing evolution.
Themes: introspective resilience· nostalgic storytelling· fear of uncertainty
Career context: Released in 2014, Gravitas is Asia's first studio album after the departure of original member Steve Howe. This period marked a significant shift for the band, as they sought to redefine their sound while maintaining their signature melodic style. It followed their previous album, Omega, and aimed to explore deeper themes musically and lyrically.
Stylistic neighbors: Yes· Emerson, Lake & Palmer· Genesis

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Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Gravitas

The bridge shifts from melancholy reflection to a hopeful assertion of strength and perseverance.

This transition not only embodies the album's thematic core but also demonstrates a structural choice that enhances emotional impact.

Tracklist

1 Valkyrie Start here 5:25
2 Gravitas: (i). Lento (ii). Gravitas 7:59
3 The Closer I Get to You 6:38
4 Nyctophobia 5:11
5 Russian Dolls 5:05
6 Heaven Help Me Now: (i). Wings of Angels (ii). Prelude (iii). Heaven Help Me Now 5:38
7 I Would Die for You 3:11
8 Joe DiMaggio’s Glove 4:30
9 Till We Meet Again 4:03
10 The Closer I Get to You (Acoustic) 6:40
11 Joe DiMaggio’s Glove (Acoustic) 4:34