Dukes of the Orient is a rock band formed in 2017 by John Payne and Erik Norlander. The duo, both veterans of the progressive rock scene, had previously collaborated in Asia Featuring John Payne, an offshoot of British progressive rock group Asia. Following the death of Asia's original lead singer John Wetton in January 2017, Payne and Norlander formed Dukes of the Orient to release new material while distinguishing themselves from Payne's former band. The band released their self-titled debut album Dukes of the Orient on February 28, 2018, featuring contributions from various members associated with Asia Featuring John Payne. Notable tracks include "Seasons Will Change," which was re-recorded for the new project. In June 2019, Payne announced work on a second album titled Freakshow, which was released on September 1, 2020. The band continues to produce music under Frontiers Records.
