WHEEL OF TIME, the visionary project created by Beijing-based multi-instrumentalist and composer Jimmie Hong, has released its debut full-length album Asymmetry. Named in honor of one of Hong’s favorite fantasy novels, WHEEL OF TIME combines the precision of progressive metal with melodic power metal, symphonic sweep, and subtle Eastern-inspired motifs. The album was composed entirely by Hong, produced and engineered by Tom MacLean (ex HAKEN), and brought to life through an international cast of collaborators.
The project began in 2022 while Hong was participating in the mentorship program led by former MEGADETH guitarist Kiko Loureiro. Inspired by the collaborative spirit of TRANS SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA, Hong envisioned a globally interconnected progressive power metal collective, uniting musicians across continents and time zones. The result is a sound shaped by influences such as METALLICA, DREAM THEATER, STRATOVARIUS, PINK FLOYD, LED ZEPPELIN, LIQUID TENSION EXPERIMENT, OPETH, and SYMPHONY X, yet defined by its own identity.
Asymmetry reflects Hong’s philosophy of narrative-driven composition, exploring themes of time, destiny, and self-discovery through intricate arrangements and emotional depth. Hong wrote, arranged, and produced the entire album independently from his home studio in Beijing, collaborating with musicians across five continents and more than ten time zones. In recognition of its innovative production model, WHEEL OF TIME will be featured as a case study at the Institute of Popular Music at the University of Liverpool in 2025.
With Asymmetry, WHEEL OF TIME delivers one of the most ambitious and immersive progressive metal debuts of the year. It is a cinematic musical voyage that transcends borders, genres, and expectations.
Watch the lyric video for “Blind Sight”:
Listen to Asymmetry: ditto.fm/asymmetry_8c85bdcb
WHEEL OF TIME is a progressive power metal project founded by Beijing-based composer and multi-instrumentalist Jimmie Hong. Combining the technicality of progressive metal with the strength of power metal and symphonic dynamics, the project creates expansive, story-driven soundscapes. WHEEL OF TIME features world-renowned guest musicians including Derek Sherinian, Tony MacAlpine, Michele Luppi, and Timo Tolkki. Subtle Eastern melodic influences and a global roster of contributors help shape the project’s distinctive artistic identity. Asymmetry, the debut full-length album, arrives on November 12, 2025.
Asymmetry – Tracklist
- Grand Cosmos (ft. Derek Sherinian) – 06:40
- Freedom Day (ft. Derek Sherinian and Michele Luppi) – 05:40
- Blind Sight (ft. Alexandre Aposan) – 06:52
- Addicted!… (ft. Derek Sherinian and Timo Tolkki) – 04:45
- … To the Awakening (ft. Tom MacLean) – 07:12
- The Night of Eternity (ft. Derek Sherinian) – 07:38
- China Moon – 05:03
- 2063 (ft. Tony MacAlpine) – 06:44
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