Asia Minor

Background of Asia Minor

Asia Minor is a progressive rock band formed in Paris by Turkish childhood friends Setrak Bakirel and Eril Tekeli. Their debut album, "Crossing The Line," was released in April 1979 under the W.A.M. label, which stands for "Ware of Asia Minor." The band features Bakirel on lead vocals, electric and acoustic guitars, and bass, while Tekeli contributes concert flute, electric and acoustic guitars, and bass. French drummer Lionel Beltrami completes the lineup, with guest keyboardist Nick Vicente providing acoustic piano, organ, and synthesizers.

Musical Characteristics

"Crossing The Line" presents a unique blend of Western European symphonic progressive rock and Eastern Mediterranean influences. The band draws inspiration from prominent acts such as King Crimson, Camel, and Jethro Tull while incorporating Anatolian folk scales and microtonal structures. They utilize complex time signatures, including 5/8, 7/8, and 9/8, to create intricate musical landscapes.

The album features a range of instrumentation and styles. Eril Tekeli's flute work is characterized by rapid fluttering solos, creating a distinct sound that complements Setrak Bakirel's emotive guitar leads. The lyrics are delivered in both English and Turkish, reflecting the band's multicultural background.

Track Highlights

The album consists of nine tracks, each contributing to its overall narrative and thematic depth. The centerpiece is "Mahzun Gözler," an eight-minute piece sung in Turkish that encapsulates the band's signature style. Other notable tracks include "Mystic Dance" and "Visions," which further explore the fusion of progressive rock elements with traditional Anatolian motifs.

Production Details

"Crossing The Line" was recorded at Studio Decca in Paris between 1978 and 1979. The production team included sound engineer Serge Dudit and remixer Jean-Claude Egreteau. The album's cover design was crafted by Bakirel and Tekeli, reflecting their artistic vision.

The album was released in a vinyl LP format, marking its status as a privately pressed debut for the band. The catalog number is W.A.M. 001.