ASIA MINOR is a Franco-Turkish progressive rock band, led by two Turkish musicians who settled in Paris as students back in the 70’s: Setrak BAKIREL (vocals & guitar) and Eril TEKELI (flute & guitar). They were quickly joined by Lionel BELTRAMI (drums & percussions), followed by Robert KEMPLER (keyboards & bass) 2 years later. Their early music revealed influences such as KING CRIMSON's "In The Court Of The Crimson King", JETHRO TULL's "Stand Up", CAMEL, FOCUS, or JADE WARRIOR's first albums. Their brilliant Progressive Rock is deeply mixed with rhythms and atmospheres from traditional Turkey's music. "Crossing the Line" (1979) and "Between Flesh and Divine" (1980) are generally considered as some of the best international successes for the genre. Beautiful themes, strong and original, are intricated with subtle arrangements, enhanced by a nostalgic and soulful singing. The flute's nervous and airy parts underline guitar's raucous or lyrical notes. A melancholic and sometimes furious music, with texts mainly written in English (and occasionally in Turkish).

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Spurred by the unwavering support from fans around the world, the band decided to reconvene in 2013, giving live concerts and composing new music resulting in their 3rd album, "Points of Libration", with co-founders Eril and Setrak being joined by Evelyne KANDEL on bass, Micha ROUSSEAU on keyboards and Julien TEKEYAN on drums. While keeping the band’s distinctive mix between Western & Eastern influences, this album explores new horizons such as a more extensive usage of keyboards and sound effects. In addition to its 2 founding members, the current stage line-up includes Evelyne KANDEL on bass, Robert KEMPLER back on keyboards and Camille BIGEAULT on drums.