It was the best of shows. It was the worst of shows. Original Asia were supposed to perform in Syracuse on 12 August at the CNY Market Block Party, but that along with Poison vocalist turned TV star Bret Michaels exploded in a row over money with promoter Mike Banks. There are two sides to every story, yet he is being slated big time for letting people down. I can't remember the last time so much vitriol was surrounding a promoter. Even Harvey Goldsmith must have had the onus on him with Yes's 1980 Drama tour, which had now-Asia members Steve Howe and Geoff Downes, making it a bonafide precursor to Asia if you like. The tour suffered with Trevor Horn singing to the point he could have gotten lymph nodes going from out of key, as fans bought tickets months before the record was out assuming it was business as usual with Jon Anderson and Rick Wakeman. Mainly at home, people were cross, but I don't remember fingers being pointed at Goldsmith directly however.
Three decades on, there is no time for Asia to have another go at it here, so I have to go to the Armoury in Rochester, a free show like Albany in '07, but not the cost of travelling! They were last in Monroe County in '06, so everyone there will be glad to see them again.
If Banks can get everything organised for another show, he could compensate by getting Asia featuring John Payne in OA's stead. I won't bring up old news of the "feud" between the pair of them. I think they get on now. Just had to deal with the solicitors on the name. I mentioned AFJP to Banks. He hasn't said anything yet, as he still has his hands full in getting everyone's money back.
Another live open air series in town was cancelled, but due to low attendence. Check earlier posts on my lament in not getting enough acts here.
