If you were a child of the late 70’s to early 80’s then the names John Wetton and Geoffrey Downes should be names you are familiar with. Both musicians began their musical career in highly successful music groups of this age Wetton sang and played with progressive pioneers King Crimson and Downes began his career with the Buggles (remember the song “Video Killed the Radio Star?) and did a short stint with Yes. Not until 1981 did Wetton and Downes gain superstar status with the creation of the super group Asia. Creating three successful CDs with Asia Wetton and Downes parted company with Asia and went on their own journeys. In 2004 the duo joined company again and released the first CD iCon and recorded another CD in the years to follow. Now, in 2009 Wetton and Downes have released their third CD (and keeping with the symbol on the cover which means everything) which is a diverse collection of all styles of music from progressive rock, adult contemporary, and pop.
iCon III begins with the strongest track on the CD entitled “Twice the Man I Was”. This track has a catchy keyboard riff and lyrics that make you wonder if Wetton had some sort of epiphany in his life as he looks back at the person he was and the person he is today. From the second track through track five the songs go from the energetic opening track to a much slower and mellow sound (almost adult contemporary in some respects). Track six picks up the pace with dirty guitars and equally gritty lyrics that talk about a persons desire to attain “Sex, Power and Money”. “Anna’s Kiss” follows and highlights the cello work of (former ELO Cellist) Hugh McDowell and New Age harpist Andreas Vollenweider and is a soothing and mellow instrumental with a brief Pink Floydish interlude. Closing out the CD is a great catchy song entitled “Peace In Our Time” and is a fine finish to a varied CD.
Overall Wetton / Downes Icon III is a decent and tolerable CD. If you are looking for an Asia sound alike then you would be better off passing this one by because very little of it sounds anything like them. It truly is a mixture of varied musical styles and lyrics that touch on various topics. This CD would appeal mostly to the adult contemporary rock fan. There are some Asia moments but for the most part stands on it’s own as its own entity. So if you are looking for some light music with a bit of a rocky edge to it then you might want to check this CD out.
Reviewed by Jeff Holton
