Between the late 70’s and late 80s, Journey was a band that transcended music in ways that some claim are still unmatched. Their lyrics were brilliant, their instrumental play was masterful, and front man Steve Perry was singing notes that to this day have fans struggling to hit as they sing along. Even when Steve Perry left the band Journey continued on but nothing compares to when he was leading the charge, wailing his lungs off with what seemed to be a limitless vocal range. As a unit, the band has countless hits that will forever remain timeless and beloved.
A mix of slow, quick, soft and hard, Journey – Greatest Hits makes going ‘way back’ feel easy and effortless.
In 1988, they took the liberty of putting a compilation together featuring their Journey – greatest hits. Some of their most notable tracks include Faithfully, Any Way You Want It, Who’s Crying Now, Separate Ways (Worlds Apart), Lights, Open Arms, and of course the one that even casual fans know, Don’t Stop Believin’. In total the album offers sixteen of their best tracks that will serve as nostalgia for fans who grew up with the band, and as a taste of pure necessary culture for those who even now may yet to have heard them. A mix of slow, quick, soft and hard, Journey – Greatest Hits makes going ‘way back’ feel easy and effortless. Honestly, nothing about it feels tired or dated. Their songs are as relevant as they’ve ever been and their greatest hits album is simply a reminder that real music is still alive and well with the press of a button.
For new fans, this collection is a highly recommended listen. There’s something in it for everyone. It is fun, it’s intimate, romantic, sexy, heart breaking, encouraging, engaging and empathetic. Because it’s a collection of hits, the only thing that’s consistent about the album is that the music is excellent. Journey is band that knows how to balance their instruments with their brilliant song writing, and to reiterate, Steve Perry’s distinguished vocal ability. To be fair, Steve Perry is a factor on his own when considering whether this is even worth the time listening. Perry is truly one of a kind. He will not now or ever be mistaken for anyone else, and few will ever be fairly compared to him. The man will stand out as one of the best to ever hold a mic, forever immortalized as the prodigal front man of a truly legendary music group.
Everyone is allowed their opinion, so sure, this type of music may not be for everyone. Thankfully though music is a science, and where singing and instruments are regarded, it’s almost impossible to question the validity of Journey’s greatness. For people who only enjoy pop music or whatever it is that gets churned out onto the radio waves regularly, it’s ok. Sit this out. Musicians and real music fans however would be hurting themselves by not taking an hour on Spotify to bask in the brilliance of a band like this, one of which comes around once in a lifetime.
