Journey — ‘Eclipse’
?Described as containing more rock and longer songs, “Eclipse” features Journey’s return to its progressive rock sound combined with infectious melodies harvested from the band’s peak years. Soaring arrangements led by loads of guitar punch and stellar vocals highlight Journey’s return to form. Guitarist Neal Schon and bassist Ross Valory are the only original members from the band’s 1973 inception. Jonathan Cain, who replaced Gregg Rolie in 1980, returns to the keyboards.
Deen Castronovo, formally of Bad English, performs admirably behind the drums, drawing comparisons to the band’s early legendary drummer, Aynsley Dunbar. Arnel Pineda is the latest singer to fill Steve Perry’s role as the band’s frontman.
Perry’s appealing vocals started the band on its climb to huge commercial success with 1978’s “Infinity.” On the new album, Pineda’s vocals flawlessly match Perry’s captivating singing note for note. “City of Hope” rocks as the album’s opener and is as good as any song the band has performed in their acclaimed career.
While Pineda is good, Schon steals the spotlight with his killer licks as he displays why he’s one of the best guitarists in the business. Schon’s guitar playing provides added muscle to songs like “Edge of the Moment,” “Chain of Love” and “Ritual.” While the rock arrangements truly rock, the ballads fall a little short of expectations. “She’s a Mystery,” “To Whom It May Concern” and “Tantra” are no match for classic Journey standards like “Faithfully,” “Open Arms” and “Send Her My Love.”
Despite a few missteps, the overall content of “Eclipse” is well worth the listen as both die-hard fans and newcomers experience the journey of one of America’s most popular bands of all time.