Geoff Downes: Asia Reignited, Yes “Fragile” Revisited, and Keeping the Fire Burning

Geoff Downes joins me on the Now Spinning Magazine Podcast to talk Asia, YES, Icon, and the emotional weight of legacy.Fresh back from Japan with Asia, Geoff reflects on revisiting the legendary Asia in Asia era — performing the original 1983 set — and how it feels playing those songs now, without John Wetton.

We also dive into the upcoming YES UK tour, where the band will perform 1971’s Fragile in its entirety, and Geoff shares how he approaches the album’s iconic solos and epics — including the surprising reality of opening with “Roundabout.”

Plus: Geoff discusses the Icon “Lexicon” retrospective, what he misses most about writing with John Wetton, and he confirms that the new Yes album is recorded, finished, and delivered.If you’re heading to see Yes on the UK tour, drop your memories (and your favourite Downes moments) in the comments.Become a Patron for exclusive videos and join the Now Spinning Arms virtual pub twice a month.Become a Patron (free trial -cancel anytime)https://www.patreon.com/nowspinningNow Spinning Magazine Storehttps://burningshed.com/store/now-spinning-magazineVisit the Now Spinning Magazine Merch Shophttps://nowspinningmagazine.co.uk/