Open Letter to Journey (We Know You Peek in Here!)

[Carlitto H@kk]

Dear Neal & Co.,
Though I was one of the first fans here to announce that I would NEVER support anything you did again once you dismissed Jeff, let me be the first to say that I was wrong and apologize to you for doubting your decision. Although I think Jeff would’ve absolutely slayed material this good and still think the way his and Augeri’s departures were handled was a little un-classy, you have found an incredible talent in Arnel and Revelation is a grand-slam, knock-out punch to the face for all of us that didn’t think you had it in you! Bravo! You have captured the magic that has been missing for so many years and have a collection of songs that truly resonate with me and the rest of Journey Nation, judging from the comments from MANY forum members here.

With that said, here’s hoping you don’t let history repeat itself and let this magic go to waste. Unlike Generations and even Arrival, you honestly have a new album that easily contains at least 7 songs worthy/ready for radio. Whether it be FM or Satellite, PLEASE try to get these songs to the masses! Yes, they are THAT good!

You also have a collection of songs that would easily translate to the Live stage. Let’s be real… Arnel sounds pretty good handling the classics but he truly shines and soars on the new material that is his own. When he is doing “Arnel” instead of “Perry” or “Augeri”, he sounds so relaxed, sincere and powerful. When you take this show on the road this summer, let him showcase “Arnel”. Whether it be the same 3-4 songs each night or a different set of new songs each night, showcase the hell out of Arnel and the new album… It’s THAT good! And just think of how excited your fans would be: Sure, I may not be at the show when you play, say, “What I Needed” but, thanks to YouTube, we will ALL get to see it eventually, right Neal?

And NEVER underestimate your fans. We DO NOT need to hear the Dirty Dozen every night. No matter what city or venue, I can guarantee there are fans out there that would LOVE to see you dig deep every once in awhile and throw in some old gems like Dixie Highway, Patiently, Precious Time, City of the Angels, Winds of march, La Do Da, After the Fall, Send Her My love, Girl Can’t Help it, Suzanne, I’ll Be Alright Without You, La Razza… I could go on and on and on… And again, we may miss these shows but, thanks to YouTube, Journey Nation would be in heaven getting to see/hear these songs again Live. You got the “voice” to cover them, why not???

And finally, as if you need advice from a nut-job like me, PLEASE pamper Arnel like he’s still a diaper-wearing toddler, i.e. take care not to “over do it” with him. We all know he is in his early 40’s and have seen what “over-singing” this catalog can do to someone. Take care of him; we want to hear his great tenor for years to come! In fact, get back in to the studio within 18 months!!! Don’t let this new found energy and momentum go to waste!

Anyhoo, just some crazy ramblings from a fan that finds himself more excited about Journey than he has in a very long time!!!

C. H@kk

[ProgRocker53]

AND PLAY OF A LIFETIME!!!

[Saint John]

Great post, Hakkman. Several things:

1) The best way to promote new songs is to play them LIVE. Find the confidence/cockiness you had with Perry between 81-83 and play the new stuff. Great point in so far as playing everything off of the album...a few songs at each show. Make them familiar.

2) Though I don't feel the same way as the folks here, let's still try to dismiss members with a Chuck E. Cheese's type farewell. I'm tired of the bitching (Though I sure as shit did my fair share!!! ).

3) Do what you do best...write, record and tour. Stay artistic and you'll stay young. We expect a new album every other year.

4) Take care of Arnel and take care of each other. You guys have something pretty special again.

5) Don't ever listen to anyone on this board!!! Seriously, we know you guys come here for reviews, ideas, etc. While I can't speak for others I can say that I appreciate it. Andrew can be a great promotional tool. You'd be foolish not to reach out and work together. This is the best and most honest site on the fucking net and you know it!!!

6) Good luck on tour.

All the best,
Saint John

[pineda1]

I am with you on this. They need to promote these songs during the tour. I think during Ross's interview recently he mentioned that is what they would like to do. They need to strike while the iron is hot so to speak!

[StoneCold]

Good post H@KK.

It takes a big man.

(that's what she said)

[Carlitto H@kk]

Good post H@KK.

It takes a big man.

(that's what she said)

Yea...

I should've added that the big bowl
of hot, steaming CROW I ate this past
Tuesday for lunch was fantastic!

[JrnyScarab]

Good post H@KK.

It takes a big man.

(that's what she said)

Yea...

I should've added that the big bowl
of hot, steaming CROW I ate this past
Tuesday for lunch was fantastic!

I had some too. Felt pretty good about it too. Great to see the band back to where they belong. EXCELLENT CD! Please don't overuse or abuse Arnel. We don't want to have to beat on you guys again.

[Shadowsong]

Good post H@KK.

It takes a big man.

(that's what she said)

Yea...

I should've added that the big bowl
of hot, steaming CROW I ate this past
Tuesday for lunch was fantastic!

Hey,
Don't mess with the crows



As for Journey

I think Neal has given up You Tube

Last night he was in my dreams.

That man kissed me & told he had been looking for me & he loved my voice

OOOh right



Guess that's the new line



Today I washed my mouth out with soap
but got to say

Neal's not a bad kisser

[Rick]

Good post H@KK.

It takes a big man.

(that's what she said)

Yea...

I should've added that the big bowl
of hot, steaming CROW I ate this past
Tuesday for lunch was fantastic!

I take mine with mustard.

[Shadowsong]

My crow likes his steak tartar
& his eggs over easy...

[stevew2]

If your are peeking in here Friga, i hope you like your pink jacket, I made it just for you my love

[Chrismo]

If your are peeking in here Friga, i hope you like your pink jacket, I made it just for you my love

[wednesday's child]

If your are peeking in here Friga, i hope you like your pink jacket, I made it just for you my love

It frightens me, Steve... just thinking about what other modifications you've got planned for his pic.
-wech

[Eric]

I sure was wrong-O

[Red13JoePa]

5) Don't ever listen to anyone on this board!!!

Believe me, no threat of that SJ.

If they had they wouldn't have jammed a top 5 album our asses for the first time since TBF.

All of our crack experts online aside, they KNOW what they're doing.

[amaron]

All of our crack experts online aside, they KNOW what they're doing.

A broken watch is right twice a day.

[Tomulator]

Dear Neal & Co.,
Though I was one of the first fans here to announce that I would NEVER support anything you did again once you dismissed Jeff, let me be the first to say that I was wrong and apologize to you for doubting your decision. Although I think Jeff would’ve absolutely slayed material this good and still think the way his and Augeri’s departures were handled was a little un-classy, you have found an incredible talent in Arnel and Revelation is a grand-slam, knock-out punch to the face for all of us that didn’t think you had it in you! Bravo! You have captured the magic that has been missing for so many years and have a collection of songs that truly resonate with me and the rest of Journey Nation, judging from the comments from MANY forum members here.

With that said, here’s hoping you don’t let history repeat itself and let this magic go to waste. Unlike Generations and even Arrival, you honestly have a new album that easily contains at least 7 songs worthy/ready for radio. Whether it be FM or Satellite, PLEASE try to get these songs to the masses! Yes, they are THAT good!

You also have a collection of songs that would easily translate to the Live stage. Let’s be real… Arnel sounds pretty good handling the classics but he truly shines and soars on the new material that is his own. When he is doing “Arnel” instead of “Perry” or “Augeri”, he sounds so relaxed, sincere and powerful. When you take this show on the road this summer, let him showcase “Arnel”. Whether it be the same 3-4 songs each night or a different set of new songs each night, showcase the hell out of Arnel and the new album… It’s THAT good! And just think of how excited your fans would be: Sure, I may not be at the show when you play, say, “What I Needed” but, thanks to YouTube, we will ALL get to see it eventually, right Neal?

And NEVER underestimate your fans. We DO NOT need to hear the Dirty Dozen every night. No matter what city or venue, I can guarantee there are fans out there that would LOVE to see you dig deep every once in awhile and throw in some old gems like Dixie Highway, Patiently, Precious Time, City of the Angels, Winds of march, La Do Da, After the Fall, Send Her My love, Girl Can’t Help it, Suzanne, I’ll Be Alright Without You, La Razza… I could go on and on and on… And again, we may miss these shows but, thanks to YouTube, Journey Nation would be in heaven getting to see/hear these songs again Live. You got the “voice” to cover them, why not???

And finally, as if you need advice from a nut-job like me, PLEASE pamper Arnel like he’s still a diaper-wearing toddler, i.e. take care not to “over do it” with him. We all know he is in his early 40’s and have seen what “over-singing” this catalog can do to someone. Take care of him; we want to hear his great tenor for years to come! In fact, get back in to the studio within 18 months!!! Don’t let this new found energy and momentum go to waste!

Anyhoo, just some crazy ramblings from a fan that finds himself more excited about Journey than he has in a very long time!!!

C. H@kk

Please...step away from the crack pipe.

No "dirty dozen"?????

Are you serious?????????

Also, Perry is DEFINITELY missed.

End of story.

Have a nice day.

[brywool]

Please...step away from the crack pipe.

No "dirty dozen"?????

Are you serious?????????

Also, Perry is DEFINITELY missed.

End of story.

Have a nice day.

If you want to hear the dirty dozen couldn't you put on the Augeri Vegas DVD, Or Captured, or Greatest hits Live or any one of a BILLION bootlegs? Do we really need to hear LTS again? NO! ESPECIALLY when they've got these new songs that are amazingly good. The post ain't about Perry. Neither is Journey these days. Time to move on....
They have a chance to get back on top with Arnel while Perry sits home playing with his cats.

[Tito]

Dear Neal & Co.,
Though I was one of the first fans here to announce that I would NEVER support anything you did again once you dismissed Jeff, let me be the first to say that I was wrong and apologize to you for doubting your decision. Although I think Jeff would’ve absolutely slayed material this good and still think the way his and Augeri’s departures were handled was a little un-classy, you have found an incredible talent in Arnel and Revelation is a grand-slam, knock-out punch to the face for all of us that didn’t think you had it in you! Bravo! You have captured the magic that has been missing for so many years and have a collection of songs that truly resonate with me and the rest of Journey Nation, judging from the comments from MANY forum members here.

With that said, here’s hoping you don’t let history repeat itself and let this magic go to waste. Unlike Generations and even Arrival, you honestly have a new album that easily contains at least 7 songs worthy/ready for radio. Whether it be FM or Satellite, PLEASE try to get these songs to the masses! Yes, they are THAT good!

You also have a collection of songs that would easily translate to the Live stage. Let’s be real… Arnel sounds pretty good handling the classics but he truly shines and soars on the new material that is his own. When he is doing “Arnel” instead of “Perry” or “Augeri”, he sounds so relaxed, sincere and powerful. When you take this show on the road this summer, let him showcase “Arnel”. Whether it be the same 3-4 songs each night or a different set of new songs each night, showcase the hell out of Arnel and the new album… It’s THAT good! And just think of how excited your fans would be: Sure, I may not be at the show when you play, say, “What I Needed” but, thanks to YouTube, we will ALL get to see it eventually, right Neal?

And NEVER underestimate your fans. We DO NOT need to hear the Dirty Dozen every night. No matter what city or venue, I can guarantee there are fans out there that would LOVE to see you dig deep every once in awhile and throw in some old gems like Dixie Highway, Patiently, Precious Time, City of the Angels, Winds of march, La Do Da, After the Fall, Send Her My love, Girl Can’t Help it, Suzanne, I’ll Be Alright Without You, La Razza… I could go on and on and on… And again, we may miss these shows but, thanks to YouTube, Journey Nation would be in heaven getting to see/hear these songs again Live. You got the “voice” to cover them, why not???

And finally, as if you need advice from a nut-job like me, PLEASE pamper Arnel like he’s still a diaper-wearing toddler, i.e. take care not to “over do it” with him. We all know he is in his early 40’s and have seen what “over-singing” this catalog can do to someone. Take care of him; we want to hear his great tenor for years to come! In fact, get back in to the studio within 18 months!!! Don’t let this new found energy and momentum go to waste!

Anyhoo, just some crazy ramblings from a fan that finds himself more excited about Journey than he has in a very long time!!!

C. H@kk

You have total class!

[stevew2]

If your are peeking in here Friga, i hope you like your pink jacket, I made it just for you my love

It frightens me, Steve... just thinking about what other modifications you've got planned for his pic.
-wech

You just wait,It might happen this afternoon

[bru87tr]

sorry, with arnel now.....perry isnt missed by me.

[BobbyinTN]

Dear Neal & Co.,
Though I was one of the first fans here to announce that I would NEVER support anything you did again once you dismissed Jeff, let me be the first to say that I was wrong and apologize to you for doubting your decision. Although I think Jeff would’ve absolutely slayed material this good and still think the way his and Augeri’s departures were handled was a little un-classy, you have found an incredible talent in Arnel and Revelation is a grand-slam, knock-out punch to the face for all of us that didn’t think you had it in you! Bravo! You have captured the magic that has been missing for so many years and have a collection of songs that truly resonate with me and the rest of Journey Nation, judging from the comments from MANY forum members here.

With that said, here’s hoping you don’t let history repeat itself and let this magic go to waste. Unlike Generations and even Arrival, you honestly have a new album that easily contains at least 7 songs worthy/ready for radio. Whether it be FM or Satellite, PLEASE try to get these songs to the masses! Yes, they are THAT good!

You also have a collection of songs that would easily translate to the Live stage. Let’s be real… Arnel sounds pretty good handling the classics but he truly shines and soars on the new material that is his own. When he is doing “Arnel” instead of “Perry” or “Augeri”, he sounds so relaxed, sincere and powerful. When you take this show on the road this summer, let him showcase “Arnel”. Whether it be the same 3-4 songs each night or a different set of new songs each night, showcase the hell out of Arnel and the new album… It’s THAT good! And just think of how excited your fans would be: Sure, I may not be at the show when you play, say, “What I Needed” but, thanks to YouTube, we will ALL get to see it eventually, right Neal?

And NEVER underestimate your fans. We DO NOT need to hear the Dirty Dozen every night. No matter what city or venue, I can guarantee there are fans out there that would LOVE to see you dig deep every once in awhile and throw in some old gems like Dixie Highway, Patiently, Precious Time, City of the Angels, Winds of march, La Do Da, After the Fall, Send Her My love, Girl Can’t Help it, Suzanne, I’ll Be Alright Without You, La Razza… I could go on and on and on… And again, we may miss these shows but, thanks to YouTube, Journey Nation would be in heaven getting to see/hear these songs again Live. You got the “voice” to cover them, why not???

And finally, as if you need advice from a nut-job like me, PLEASE pamper Arnel like he’s still a diaper-wearing toddler, i.e. take care not to “over do it” with him. We all know he is in his early 40’s and have seen what “over-singing” this catalog can do to someone. Take care of him; we want to hear his great tenor for years to come! In fact, get back in to the studio within 18 months!!! Don’t let this new found energy and momentum go to waste!

Anyhoo, just some crazy ramblings from a fan that finds himself more excited about Journey than he has in a very long time!!!

C. H@kk

Excellent post. I think the part about protecting Arnel's voice is the greatest advice anyone could ever give Journey.

Don't use him and toss him away.

[StoneCold]

sorry, with arnel now.....perry isnt missed by me.

[Liquid_Drummer]

sorry, with arnel now.....perry isnt missed by me.

I would only miss Perry if he could still sing the songs as he sung them from 78 to 83. After 83 the older stuff was sped up and his voice changed... Still awesome but just not right for the old stuff in my eyes. I never thought I would say this but I have to say I agree.

[Tomulator]

Please...step away from the crack pipe.

No "dirty dozen"?????

Are you serious?????????

Also, Perry is DEFINITELY missed.

End of story.

Have a nice day.

If you want to hear the dirty dozen couldn't you put on the Augeri Vegas DVD, Or Captured, or Greatest hits Live or any one of a BILLION bootlegs? Do we really need to hear LTS again? NO! ESPECIALLY when they've got these new songs that are amazingly good. The post ain't about Perry. Neither is Journey these days. Time to move on....
They have a chance to get back on top with Arnel while Perry sits home playing with his cats.

I believe he was talking LIVE...not recorded. It's a smart "business" move to play the dozen live...

[Tomulator]

sorry, with arnel now.....perry isnt missed by me.

You're "WITH" Arnel?????????

Whoah.

[RockitRide]

I thought Augeri was the second coming but after the mediocre Arrival shriveled up and died for me I knew that this configuration wasn't going to produce any great new Journey music. The new CD is simply tremendous because of the great songs and the great performances, with Arnel being the main driver, as it should be. He absolutely smokes on this CD. There is no question that he is the top dog out there today. The arrangements are also quite impressive. The new CD has several classics on it and they are as good as anything the band has ever produced. I can't believe that Turn Down the World Tonight is actually one of my favorites on the CD. What a great melody and Arnel absolutely nailed it.

[finalfight]

The new CD is simply tremendous because of the great songs and the great performances, with Arnel being the main driver, as it should be. He absolutely smokes on this CD. There is no question that he is the top dog out there today. The arrangements are also quite impressive. The new CD has several classics on it and they are as good as anything the band has ever produced. I can't believe that Turn Down the World Tonight is actually one of my favorites on the CD. What a great melody and Arnel absolutely nailed it.

Right on!

[Escape Artist]

Dear Neal & Co.,
Though I was one of the first fans here to announce that I would NEVER support anything you did again once you dismissed Jeff, let me be the first to say that I was wrong and apologize to you for doubting your decision. Although I think Jeff would’ve absolutely slayed material this good and still think the way his and Augeri’s departures were handled was a little un-classy, you have found an incredible talent in Arnel and Revelation is a grand-slam, knock-out punch to the face for all of us that didn’t think you had it in you! Bravo! You have captured the magic that has been missing for so many years and have a collection of songs that truly resonate with me and the rest of Journey Nation, judging from the comments from MANY forum members here.

With that said, here’s hoping you don’t let history repeat itself and let this magic go to waste. Unlike Generations and even Arrival, you honestly have a new album that easily contains at least 7 songs worthy/ready for radio. Whether it be FM or Satellite, PLEASE try to get these songs to the masses! Yes, they are THAT good!

You also have a collection of songs that would easily translate to the Live stage. Let’s be real… Arnel sounds pretty good handling the classics but he truly shines and soars on the new material that is his own. When he is doing “Arnel” instead of “Perry” or “Augeri”, he sounds so relaxed, sincere and powerful. When you take this show on the road this summer, let him showcase “Arnel”. Whether it be the same 3-4 songs each night or a different set of new songs each night, showcase the hell out of Arnel and the new album… It’s THAT good! And just think of how excited your fans would be: Sure, I may not be at the show when you play, say, “What I Needed” but, thanks to YouTube, we will ALL get to see it eventually, right Neal?

And NEVER underestimate your fans. We DO NOT need to hear the Dirty Dozen every night. No matter what city or venue, I can guarantee there are fans out there that would LOVE to see you dig deep every once in awhile and throw in some old gems like Dixie Highway, Patiently, Precious Time, City of the Angels, Winds of march, La Do Da, After the Fall, Send Her My love, Girl Can’t Help it, Suzanne, I’ll Be Alright Without You, La Razza… I could go on and on and on… And again, we may miss these shows but, thanks to YouTube, Journey Nation would be in heaven getting to see/hear these songs again Live. You got the “voice” to cover them, why not???

And finally, as if you need advice from a nut-job like me, PLEASE pamper Arnel like he’s still a diaper-wearing toddler, i.e. take care not to “over do it” with him. We all know he is in his early 40’s and have seen what “over-singing” this catalog can do to someone. Take care of him; we want to hear his great tenor for years to come! In fact, get back in to the studio within 18 months!!! Don’t let this new found energy and momentum go to waste!

Anyhoo, just some crazy ramblings from a fan that finds himself more excited about Journey than he has in a very long time!!!

C. H@kk

I have also eaten a very large black bird lately, Revelation is a great 1st effort w/ Arnel. Yes, take care of the guy and continue with the momentum...Please!

[X factor]

I thought Augeri was the second coming but after the mediocre Arrival shriveled up and died for me I knew that this configuration wasn't going to produce any great new Journey music. The new CD is simply tremendous because of the great songs and the great performances, with Arnel being the main driver, as it should be. He absolutely smokes on this CD. There is no question that he is the top dog out there today. The arrangements are also quite impressive. The new CD has several classics on it and they are as good as anything the band has ever produced. I can't believe that Turn Down the World Tonight is actually one of my favorites on the CD. What a great melody and Arnel absolutely nailed it.

Come on folks...it ain't THAT good!!! Among the best they have ever produced???? Uhmm...yeah...Ok...