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Astra

by Asia

Released: November 11, 1985

Progressive rock, hard rock, synth rock

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Why This Album Matters

This album matters because its strongest editorial story is: Lineup Change.

The Album

This album marked the departure of co-founding vocalist and bassist John Wetton until the band's reunion in 2006, and it was their last full-length studio album with him until "Phoenix" in 2008. "Astra" is the third studio album by the British rock supergroup Asia, released on November 11, 1985, through Geffen Records. Despite this, "Astra" still managed to produce singles and maintain the band's commercial presence during the 1980s rock scene.

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Asia - Astra

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Reception

Following the departure of Steve Howe, Swiss guitarist Mandy Meyer joined Asia for "Astra," making it the first of two albums featuring him, the other being "Then & Now." The album continued in Asia's tradition of melodic rock, though it faced mixed critical reception compared to their earlier successes.

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The Complete Album Story

"Astra" is the third studio album by the British rock supergroup Asia, released on November 11, 1985, through Geffen Records. This album marked the departure of co-founding vocalist and bassist John Wetton until the band's reunion in 2006, and it was their last full-length studio album with him until "Phoenix" in 2008.