Asia Minor is a French‑Turkish progressive rock band founded in the 1970s by two Turkish musicians who had relocated to Paris as students: Setrak Bakirel (vocals, guitar) and Eril Tekeli (flute, guitar). The pair were soon joined by drummer and percussionist Lionel Beltrami, followed two years later by keyboardist and bassist Robert Kempler. From the outset, the group developed a distinctive sound that blended Western progressive‑rock traditions with rhythmic and atmospheric elements drawn from Turkish musical heritage. The band’s early work reflects clear influences from landmark progressive acts such as King Crimson, Jethro Tull, Camel, Focus, and the early albums of Jade Warrior. Their first two studio albums, Crossing the Line (1979) and Between Flesh and Divine (1980), are widely regarded as significant contributions to the international progressive‑rock canon. These recordings are characterized by expressive themes, intricate arrangements, and a vocal delivery marked by nostalgia and emotional depth. Tekeli’s agile flute lines intertwine with Bakirel’s guitar work, creating a dynamic interplay that ranges from delicate to forceful. The band’s lyrics are primarily in English, with occasional passages in Turkish. After a long period of inactivity, Asia Minor reunited in 2013, encouraged by sustained support from fans around the world. The renewed collaboration led to live performances and the creation of new material, culminating in the release of their third album, Points of Libration.
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Nightwind
Oriental Game
Misfortune
Radyo Hatırası
Without stir
Preface
Mahzun Gözler
Lost In A Dream Yell