John Wetton Rock of Faith

John Wetton's early-2003 album Rock of Faith appeared after a two-year string of concert releases. It was written at a crossroads in the singer/bassist's life, in the wake of his 50th birthday – it was also occasioned by his extended visit to Vienna, which stimulated him artistically, and recorded in the wake of the dire world events of 2001 halfway around the globe. The ex-Family/King Crimson/Asia member rises to the occasion here, with an album evocative of his progressive rock past, yet slightly leaner and more focused than most of those efforts ever were, and supported by Geoffrey Downes (keyboards), Clive Nolan (keyboards), John Mitchell (electric guitars), and Steve Christey (drums).

Celebrating 30 years since the release of their 1982 debut album, Asia's 2012 full-length XXX is also the third release to feature the original line-up since they reunited for 2008's Phoenix and 2010's Omega. Once again showcasing the talents of lead vocalist and bassist John Wetton, keyboardist Geoff Downes, guitarist Steve Howe, and drummer Carl Palmer, XXX is a rock tour de force that disproves the notion that rock bands get worse as they get older. In fact, as with Phoenix and Omega, XXX is a strong follow-up to both of Asia's first two albums and, while never sounding dated, smartly sticks to the band's '80s prog-pop sound. In keeping with this aesthetic, the album even features Roger Dean cover art reminiscent of his 1982 serpent on the band's self-titled debut…

Once Upon A Time is the definitive last word on Family. A long-awaited 14 disc box set that collects the band's entire back catalogue for the first time…

British rockers Wishbone Ash gained fame in the 1970s for their twin-guitar attack and captivating blend of hard rock and progressive stylings. TENDER is a collection of tunes that showcase the softer side of the band's musical personality, including a number of latter-day tracks. Acoustic-tinged balladry and dynamics that veer towards the low end of the spectrum are the order of the day here, but if you want the harder stuff, check out this disc's companion release, entitled (what else?) TOUGH.

Long lost collaboration by Glenn Hughes and Robin George, originally recorded in 1989. Mastered from the original tapes.

Long lost collaboration by Glenn Hughes and Robin George, originally recorded in 1989. Mastered from the original tapes.

Long lost collaboration by Glenn Hughes and Robin George, originally recorded in 1989.Mastered from the original tapes.

Long lost collaboration by Glenn Hughes and Robin George, originally recorded in 1989. Mastered from the original tapes.