I saw the ROR tour here in dallas in 1986 again with Perry. All of these shows were top notch and were truly magic. Since then I have seen an Augeri, Soto, and Pineda fronted band. Although I have respect for all the others mentioned it has never been the same. The problem, I think for most is that they still remember the 1981 Journey and expect it to be the same now years later.
Journey played here Sunday at the Gexa to a sold out crowd. I am sad to say for the first time that it may be the last show I go to see. Not because I am mad or wish that Perry would return. Ironically, Perry sang for the first time recently and has proven that time has truly affected his voice. The years of touring has started to take a toll on Arnel and his voice has suffered as a result. There was a pretty noticeable difference between the show I saw Sunday and the last time they came through dallas.
It seems inevitable that touring at the pace that this band does will result in destroying their most sacred thing, which is "the frontman." I think Arnel is a badass and has proven that he has the stuff, however I hope that he takes care of himself to prevent permanent damage. Props to Deen on Mother Father as he always makes me smile when I hear him sing!
