FULL DISCLOSURE: What you are about to read is purely speculation on my part but I'm usually pretty right when it comes to this band. Those who are close to me know I know just about everything there is to know about this band and their history. Do I personally know them? No. Have I met them (most of them) yes.
Let me be upfront about me and this band. I love this band I've been a huge fan over 37 years and I'm 47 so you do the math...that's a long time to be a true devoted fan. I'm not alone. From the album ESCAPE to the last album ECLIPSE, I have been there. Through all stops and starts, lead singer changes, drama in the band, marriages, divorces, arrests etc. I've followed it all. Even to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame where we thought...well hoped but it never happened, that Mr. Perry himself would once again join the band onstage. But this year I'm beginning to feel like its finally coming to an end.
Here's why...
As Arnel takes the stage for the first time this year he will be setting a record as Journey's longest running front man. Yes folks he lasted longer than Perry himself. But there is a problem. His voice hasn't sounded good for the last couple of tours. His performance at the Hall of Fame was mediocre at best. I have tickets to see them in Hershey with Def Leppard May 25th so I'm hoping he holds up since the tour is just starting. I really like the guy and hope he does well.
Cain and Schon...hmm where to begin. I've watched this twitter/Instagram/Facebook saga drag out last year and from what I've listened to and read, it ain't fixed folks. There is a big divide in the camp but I've read that rehearsals are going well. Maybe they patched things up. Lets hope but having those 2 against each other is a big divide in the Journey force. I think I'm on the side of Neal for this one but I've met both of them back in 1998 and it was a major let down. They were both not really there to meet the fans (that was just my experience) sad too since this was the first tour they embarked on after canning Perry. However, Deen and the other Steve were super cool and awesome guys to meet and chat with.
Smith seems like he would rather be doing something else (like playing Jazz or something) but the money must be good so he is staying for now. I'll be honest he is my favorite Journey drummer (sorry Dean fans). I'm really looking forward to seeing him play with the band. I've never personally seen him play with the band so this is one of my bucket list items. I hope he shows a lot of passion for playing. He is the only reason I am going to see this band this year.
No new music. I think they missed their opportunity and ECLIPSE just didn't do it for the fans. I loved that album but many didn't. There isn't any money in making albums anymore but I'd take a new song or 2 once in awhile. Maybe sell an EP like they did with RED 13. But honestly, I don't think the creative juices are there between 2 of main song writers anymore. That flame may have gone out.
I think Def Leppard is going to give them a run for their money this tour. I hope I'm wrong but I really doubt they are going to be able to hold up to these guys. Once that becomes apparent, they'll get through the tour but Smith will be done and I think Arnel may call it a day too. Cain will go back to doing Christian stuff or writing a new book and Neal will be Neal. He'll still create but its not the same. Time will tell I guess...
Bonus material.. Did you guys see who Deen just hooked up over on Frontiers Records? If you haven't seen this video you should check it out. Maybe this could be a door opening for a "REAL" Hardline reunion! That would be something to talk about and maybe we will...
What are your thoughts about this post? I'd love to hear your thoughts.
