The Journey Through Time set is a great release. I saw that tour they did, and it was amazing. I have to admit, I'm not a huge fan of the first three Journey albums, but it was a treat seeing and hearing that stuff live. And Deen did the Perry era stuff so much justice.
I've been a big Journey fan for a long time. My favorite records are probably Escape and Trial By Fire, but I really enjoy the hell out of the entire Perry catalog. I thought Steve Augeri was a great addition to the band. I have the first edition of the Red 13 EP he did with them (which was autographed by all), and loved "Remember Me," the single that started off that era. I have to admit, while I liked Arrival, it was a bit ballad-heavy to my ears. And Generations...some good stuff. Enjoyed "Faith in the Heartland" and some others. I thought Steve Augeri got the absolute shaft. He had vocal issues, and the band wasn't willing to wait for him to address them. (That sound familiar to anyone who has been a Journey fan?)
Talk about getting the shaft - I really loved the addition of Jeff Scott Soto. I felt with JSS doing Journey, and then Deen behind the kit doing some of the songs as well, they had a one-two lead vocal punch that could really take Journey to a cool place. And instead, after JSS cancels all his stuff and prepares for the long haul with Journey, they sack him. I lost complete respect for Schon and Cain after that.
As much as I think most people love the heartwarming story of Arnel Pineda, I was absolutely horrified they re-recorded all of Journey's hits with him. Don't get me wrong, I LIKE Arnel. He's not Perry (who the hell is?), but I like him. I thought Eclipse was a great record. Best full album since Trial By Fire. But I just can't see Journey again. Not after what Neil and Jonathan did to Perry, Augeri, and JSS. And then their internal money squabbles and BS. Just pass.
But the legendary music itself...journeys on. And I'm forever a fan. Great stuff. The prog tinges throughout the catalog are superb, and really, it's what really keeps me coming back to their music. It's not just syrupy choruses. A lot of great prog moments, vocal acrobatics, and just great ear candy throughout.
p.s. add me to the list of those who love Frontiers. Great record.