Quite a few prog rock veterans got the hint upon the dawn of the '80s -- long and winding epics were out; streamlined and focused compositions were in. And the first to reap the rewards of this stylistic shift was the prog supergroup
Asia. Comprised of members of
King Crimson (singer/bassist
John Wetton),
Yes (guitarist
Steve Howe),
ELP (
Carl Palmer), and
the Buggles (keyboardist
Geoff Downes),
Asia threw all the indulgences of their past bands out the window, and scored a few surprise pop hits during the early '80s. Although unable to sustain its success, the group did pen several tracks that were embraced by the then-burgeoning MTV, and the 2002 compilation
Universal Masters Collection collects all the expected favorites. Included is (of course) their biggest/most recognizable hit, the number one "Heat of the Moment," as well as such other standouts as "Only Time Will Tell," "Don't Cry," and "Open Your Eyes." If you're looking for an
Asia summary without having to wade through their inconsistent albums post-Asia, then
Universal Masters Collection will do quite nicely. ~ Greg Prato