Arnel Pineda...So Far So Good?

[Deb]

Even being a major Perry and Soto fan.........how the heck can somebody hear/see this and not think this sounds pretty damn good. Anyway you want it/Only the young http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44pSl3RuM-c&NR=1

[brywool]

Even being a major Perry and Soto fan.........how the heck can somebody hear/see this and not think this sounds pretty damn good. Anyway you want it/Only the young http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44pSl3RuM-c&NR=1

being a Perry, Soto, or Augeri fan (or jeremey, or hugo, or whoever...) really doesn't have anything to do with it. The guy is a great addition to the band. Had they not screwed JSS over, it would've been a lot easier for some to take Arnel, but they really don't have much to do with each other.

It's clear from reading the posts here that some won't give the guy any credit for their own reasons. Some actually have listened and don't dig the guy. That's fine. Others just don't like him for reasons that have nothing to do with his voice or chops. Their loss.

[Sarah]

I'll risk my "job" at the other forum to answer this thread haha. Like a few other people have said, it's not anything Arnel is doing (he's adorable actually and I hope he doesn't get screwed by the band somehow) but it's pretty lame how Journey has acted in the last few years. I'm not really sure they've earned the money I'd have to pay for the CD and concerts etc. TBH I can't believe a lot of you are so quick to forgive and forget after all that TG drama and the "I am done with this band" declarations. It doesn't matter how good their singer is at this point, because I know what happened with his predecessors. I hate to use the i-word but I wish they'd shown more integrity in the last couple of years and been more careful choosing a singer and so on, because it's pretty embarrassing trying to explain to people why they have a new singer and still sound like it's a great band.

I'll echo donnaplease on the going to see friends part. That's the whole reason I went to Vegas in the first place. And I'll go to Irvine for the same reason. The show is secondary to the parties. :]

[Deb]

Even being a major Perry and Soto fan.........how the heck can somebody hear/see this and not think this sounds pretty damn good. Anyway you want it/Only the young http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44pSl3RuM-c&NR=1

being a Perry, Soto, or Augeri fan (or jeremey, or hugo, or whoever...) really doesn't have anything to do with it. The guy is a great addition to the band. Had they not screwed JSS over, it would've been a lot easier for some to take Arnel, but they really don't have much to do with each other.

It's clear from reading the posts here that some won't give the guy any credit for their own reasons. Some actually have listened and don't dig the guy. That's fine. Others just don't like him for reasons that have nothing to do with his voice or chops. Their loss.

You're right, Arnel had nothing to do with it. And I have listened to all the Journey singers on their own merits. That's what I meant by my post..........no matter what your feelngs are on the whole Journey soap opera, how can anybody listen to that openly and not think it sounds pretty damn good? I love the classic Journey music period and Arnel does a great job, doesn't mean I've gained any respect back for Neal/Jon as people.

[Lula]

being a Perry, Soto, or Augeri fan (or jeremey, or hugo, or whoever...) really doesn't have anything to do with it. The guy is a great addition to the band. Had they not screwed JSS over, it would've been a lot easier for some to take Arnel, but they really don't have much to do with each other.

It's clear from reading the posts here that some won't give the guy any credit for their own reasons. Some actually have listened and don't dig the guy. That's fine. Others just don't like him for reasons that have nothing to do with his voice or chops. Their loss.

very true, in my case anyway. not take arnel, but rather take journey. i have liked arnel's voice since he was first introduced to us. i'm just tired of the band's lack of compassion towards supposedly brothers.... basically i think a few of them are chicken shits.

[brywool]

I'll risk my "job" at the other forum to answer this thread haha. Like a few other people have said, it's not anything Arnel is doing (he's adorable actually and I hope he doesn't get screwed by the band somehow) but it's pretty lame how Journey has acted in the last few years. I'm not really sure they've earned the money I'd have to pay for the CD and concerts etc. TBH I can't believe a lot of you are so quick to forgive and forget after all that TG drama and the "I am done with this band" declarations. It doesn't matter how good their singer is at this point, because I know what happened with his predecessors. I hate to use the i-word but I wish they'd shown more integrity in the last couple of years and been more careful choosing a singer and so on, because it's pretty embarrassing trying to explain to people why they have a new singer and still sound like it's a great band.

I'll echo donnaplease on the going to see friends part. That's the whole reason I went to Vegas in the first place. And I'll go to Irvine for the same reason. The show is secondary to the parties. :]

But this 'other stuff' has nothing to do with Arnel. So the question SJ posted is "Arnel, so far so good?". If some can't get over what happened with Journey (and I was really pissed about the Augeri thing by the way and also the jss thing- though I was a tough sell on him as Journey's vocalist). The question isn't "hey, in light of all the bs Journey pulled, are you still a fan and will you support them?" The question is, is this new guy able to do the job.
I say Yes.

[brywool]

Even being a major Perry and Soto fan.........how the heck can somebody hear/see this and not think this sounds pretty damn good. Anyway you want it/Only the young http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=44pSl3RuM-c&NR=1

being a Perry, Soto, or Augeri fan (or jeremey, or hugo, or whoever...) really doesn't have anything to do with it. The guy is a great addition to the band. Had they not screwed JSS over, it would've been a lot easier for some to take Arnel, but they really don't have much to do with each other.

It's clear from reading the posts here that some won't give the guy any credit for their own reasons. Some actually have listened and don't dig the guy. That's fine. Others just don't like him for reasons that have nothing to do with his voice or chops. Their loss.

You're right, Arnel had nothing to do with it. And I have listened to all the Journey singers on their own merits. That's what I meant by my post..........no matter what your feelngs are on the whole Journey soap opera, how can anybody listen to that openly and not think it sounds pretty damn good? I love the classic Journey music period and Arnel does a great job, doesn't mean I've gained any respect back for Neal/Jon as people.

DING DING! WINNER!

[Sarah]

The question is, is this new guy able to do the job.
I say Yes.

Yes.

[Saint John]

The shows will always be about the people first and the music second. This would still be the case if the nozzled one decided to return. As for Arnel, I have been giving open and honest reviews of him. I gave his first show a "D." I attended 2 shows in Las Vegas and gave him a "B-" at the private gig and a "C" at the public one. He has a lot of room for improvement and I suspect he will as time goes on.

Sarah, I don't owe anyone an "explanation" as it pertains to my favorite band. Neither should you. And I have nothing to be "embarrassed" about either. Tapegate was a horrible decision, and there's no denying that. It's now a personal decision to move ahead with the band or to go your separate ways. I respect both paths. And if you want "integrity" I suggest you start following "Stryper."

[STORY_TELLER]

I say,"Yes!." What says you? Discuss.

When you say so far so good, what are you referring to? Journey returning to the GH's 401k tour?

I think it's too early to even ask this question. He's had, what, 3 concerts under his belt total? One of which was strangely recorded for a DVD before the poor guy even had a chance to get some firm stage legs under him.

The question will be answered when Revelation goes on sale. Until then, Arnel is just another cover singer. A good one, but a cover singer nonetheless.

[ProgRocker53]

Arnel's pretty good. He's no Steve Perry or JSS, but he's a good singer and will be able to do the job to a "T."

He's got me on board, but then again, Journey never truly lost me.

[Greg]

Arnel has been so-so so far. I wouldn't call it great or grand. I would call it ok. He has improved, but he's got a lot of room for improvement. Sorry, I'm not one of those who is willing to accept just good enough at this point.

[mistiejourney]

Arnel is doing a great job. You couldn't ask more from the guy. He's been with the band a very short time. He's recorded two records, is learning the whole back catalog and all the while preparing for a tour and while his spoken english needs work, his singing diction is improving every show.

It's not the Journey that I took my girlfriend to see back in '81, but it's as close as we're going to get. I went to Las Vegas and had a blast at the show. I'd rather do that than be pissed and bitter at them for something I can't change. I guarantee you, all of you would have had a great time if you would just forgive, forget and let shit go. The bitterness and anger is not damaging them, it's only damaging you. Think about it, we ALL could be going to shows and having the same great time that we did in Las Vegas. Now THAT would be something.

Rick, let me ask you something...

Would you have hopped on a plane and gone to Vegas to see Journey if it weren't for the MR gang that was gonna be there? I bet not. It's not about the band so much as it is about the friends, IMO. I certainly wouldn't have gone to Florida last year to see them if it weren't for my friends that were also going. However, I'm not interested in seeing Journey AT ALL at this point, so I can't imagine myself making any trips for them. I'm just not interested. It's not that I hate Arnel, I think he's okay, it's just the whole situation has me burned out.

I will cherish my memories of shows and parties that I attended with the JSS-era Journey. I met a lot of great people, and consider many to be real friends. I will continue to love the SP-era, as any proper "loon" would do. But my present-day "Journey" is over. All the cheerleading, and telling me that I'm wrong for my opinions, and race-baiting has only served to solidify my views.

For those that choose to follow this incarnation, if it brings you happiness, go for it. There's no reason that folks can't disagree on this era but still remain friendly on other aspects of the life of this band. Life is too short for cyber bullshit.

Got to agree here. Heck, I almost up and went to Vegas for a chance to meet up with some MR folks because I knew that with them, it would be a blast no matter WHO was singing. But the actual band. When it is just me who wants to go? Nah. More power to them for soldiering on, but I'm just....I don't know....not really up for following them anymore.

[Since 78]

Arnel is doing a great job; I think he has brought back some enthusiasm to the Band and its great to hear the music the way it was meant to be sung. I really liked SA, but he didn't have the power that Arnel has.

[ttango1]

While it's true that I met a few people from both boards, that wasn't the draw for me...Journey was.

And Arnel is kicking ass and taking every little mis-step as a challenge for him to be even better.

I REALLY WISH PEOPLE COULD SEPERATE THE POLITICS FROM THE MUSIC.

Arnel wasn't tabbed because Neal is taller than him. The guy is talented(whether you want to believe that is up to you) but despite his immense talents, he still needs some seasoning, but you gotta love the guy's humility. He'll tell you honestly that he is working as hard as he can to be the best singer he can be and judging from the Vegas show... we're loving both him and the group. I gave him a B for the PH show but I know he can get better.

[larryfromnextdoor]

the Zoo youtube clip of DSB was shown on Ellen Degeneras today.. Ellen was making a big deal about Arnel and she stated they were trying to get the entire band to perform on the show..

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

[youkeepmewaiting]

the Zoo youtube clip of DSB was shown on Ellen Degeneras today.. Ellen was making a big deal about Arnel and she stated they were trying to get the entire band to perform on the show..

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

Now as much as I would love for her to get hit by a heard of elephants and then thrown into a room and be forced to listen to Air Supply for the rest of her life, it's good promotion for the band and would be great if they were on the show

[Rick]

Arnel is doing a great job. You couldn't ask more from the guy. He's been with the band a very short time. He's recorded two records, is learning the whole back catalog and all the while preparing for a tour and while his spoken english needs work, his singing diction is improving every show.

It's not the Journey that I took my girlfriend to see back in '81, but it's as close as we're going to get. I went to Las Vegas and had a blast at the show. I'd rather do that than be pissed and bitter at them for something I can't change. I guarantee you, all of you would have had a great time if you would just forgive, forget and let shit go. The bitterness and anger is not damaging them, it's only damaging you. Think about it, we ALL could be going to shows and having the same great time that we did in Las Vegas. Now THAT would be something.

Rick, let me ask you something...

Would you have hopped on a plane and gone to Vegas to see Journey if it weren't for the MR gang that was gonna be there? I bet not. It's not about the band so much as it is about the friends, IMO. I certainly wouldn't have gone to Florida last year to see them if it weren't for my friends that were also going. However, I'm not interested in seeing Journey AT ALL at this point, so I can't imagine myself making any trips for them. I'm just not interested. It's not that I hate Arnel, I think he's okay, it's just the whole situation has me burned out.

I will cherish my memories of shows and parties that I attended with the JSS-era Journey. I met a lot of great people, and consider many to be real friends. I will continue to love the SP-era, as any proper "loon" would do. But my present-day "Journey" is over. All the cheerleading, and telling me that I'm wrong for my opinions, and race-baiting has only served to solidify my views.

For those that choose to follow this incarnation, if it brings you happiness, go for it. There's no reason that folks can't disagree on this era but still remain friendly on other aspects of the life of this band. Life is too short for cyber bullshit.

No, probably not. Las Vegas is very expensive, but it was worth it to meet new people and see others again. I will say this however, I would have caught a show at some point this year, even if I had to again brave that piece of shit Smirnoff shed in Dallas.

I was mad and bitter too there for a while, but what was that getting me? Nothing. I figured that things are what they are and I can't change a damn thing. I can't be mad at Neal and Jon for making business decisions that best fit their goals. I know it was handled wrong in our eyes, but we don't know what happened on their end either. Those old bastards have given me a hell of a lot of good music over the years, and I'm not going to let the drama from the last 10 change anything. I say screw that and enjoy the music. That's just the way I'm choosing to roll on this one baby! Journey on!

[Rick]

I say,"Yes!." What says you? Discuss.

When you say so far so good, what are you referring to? Journey returning to the GH's 401k tour?

I think it's too early to even ask this question. He's had, what, 3 concerts under his belt total? One of which was strangely recorded for a DVD before the poor guy even had a chance to get some firm stage legs under him.

The question will be answered when Revelation goes on sale. Until then, Arnel is just another cover singer. A good one, but a cover singer nonetheless.

There was nothing strange about it in my eyes, they wanted to have something to package in with the new CD & GH. I think it was a pretty good idea.

[brywool]

I say,"Yes!." What says you? Discuss.

When you say so far so good, what are you referring to? Journey returning to the GH's 401k tour?

I think it's too early to even ask this question. He's had, what, 3 concerts under his belt total? One of which was strangely recorded for a DVD before the poor guy even had a chance to get some firm stage legs under him.

The question will be answered when Revelation goes on sale. Until then, Arnel is just another cover singer. A good one, but a cover singer nonetheless.

There was nothing strange about it in my eyes, they wanted to have something to package in with the new CD & GH. I think it was a pretty good idea.

agreed.

[Lula]

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

larry, you are so cool!!!

nice post rick. i can always count on you to say it as you see it! it was a pleasure meeting you and debbie

[Rick]

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

larry, you are so cool!!!

nice post rick. i can always count on you to say it as you see it! it was a pleasure meeting you and debbie

Same here Lula, I only wish we could have had more time to visit. Meeting you, Dean and Wyatt was one of the biggest highlights of the trip.

[STORY_TELLER]

I say,"Yes!." What says you? Discuss.

When you say so far so good, what are you referring to? Journey returning to the GH's 401k tour?

I think it's too early to even ask this question. He's had, what, 3 concerts under his belt total? One of which was strangely recorded for a DVD before the poor guy even had a chance to get some firm stage legs under him.

The question will be answered when Revelation goes on sale. Until then, Arnel is just another cover singer. A good one, but a cover singer nonetheless.

There was nothing strange about it in my eyes, they wanted to have something to package in with the new CD & GH. I think it was a pretty good idea.

What's strange about it is the timing. 3rd time out with the band, ever, and they're putting it on DVD. They're rushing to make a product rather than giving Arnel time to get seasoned, both stage presence wise and vocally. Wouldn't it have been a wiser choice to give him time to get more performances of these songs with the band under his belt before they did that? The idea being, to put out the best possible quality product instead of rushing a likely lesser quality one to market?

This is about getting it done in time to slip it into the Walmart deal, not making the best concert vid possible and they need to push quality now because Arnel is their 3rd (official) singer since Perry. That's what's strange about it.

[ttango1]

Eloquently said. If it wasn't for your MR shirt...I wouldn't have known to stop at that section of Heart Bar where I ran into Rip, The Brothers from PITT, and the East Coast Honeys. To me, meeting you guys was a BONUS. The concert was amazing even if no longer Perry-led, and oh yeah St. John is cool peeps. I still owe you a double shot.

[ttango1]

Eloquently said. If it wasn't for you MR shirt...I wouldn't have known to stop at that section of Heart Bar where I ran into Rip, The Brothers from PITT, and the East Coast Honeys. To me, meeting you guys was a BONUS. The concert was amazing even if no longer Perry-led, and oh yeah St. John is cool peeps. I still owe you a double shot.

[venomnation]

the Zoo youtube clip of DSB was shown on Ellen Degeneras today.. Ellen was making a big deal about Arnel and she stated they were trying to get the entire band to perform on the show..

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

You watch Ellen. We all know it. You dig her. I'd say there's no shame in that...but I'd be lying
Tell all your biker mechanic friends that you're a journey fan....and you watch ellen. I'm sure they'll have a big hell's angels group hug for you.
(Sorry, it was there..I had to...it was just too easy man..all in good fun, mind you)

[STORY_TELLER]

Eloquently said.

Eh. His was more eloquent, but mine made more sense.

[STORY_TELLER]

the Zoo youtube clip of DSB was shown on Ellen Degeneras today.. Ellen was making a big deal about Arnel and she stated they were trying to get the entire band to perform on the show..

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

They better JUMP on that! More importantly, they better play more than just a Perry tune to promote the new album.

[Saint John]

NOW.. i dont watch Ellen.. i was sucking down some Pearl in a can chased by Jack Daniels Black with some bikers while working on some cars and motorcycles and somebodys ole lady had the tv on...

larry, you are so cool!!!

nice post rick. i can always count on you to say it as you see it! it was a pleasure meeting you and debbie

The question is...when is the next get together? I've talked to quite a few peeps and the overwhelming majority want Vegas again. Works for me...but then again I'd fly to Somalia to have the sort of fun I had a few weeks ago. I met some great fucking people, man.

PS Deano, work on the logistics when Journey's tour schedule comes out and try to make a Journey/Bryan Adams weekend work. That would be fun. I'd love to ride BA in your presence and watch your face turn fire engine red!!!

[venomnation]

HEY! what about all of us on the east coast who work fer a livin....and don't have the dough for plane tickets....what about us

Hook us up! LOL