Not to be a contrarian, but Journey’s best song isn’t “Don’t Stop Believin’”. It’s a total banger and an iconic late night closing down the bar song, but the distinct honor of best Journey song undoubtedly goes to “Separate Ways (Worlds Away)” which kicks off their 1983 album Frontiers. It features all the best Journey has to offer– lead vocalist Steve Perry’s iconic raspy and rich voice, filled with the grit of a classic rock veteran mix blended in with the impeccable tone a la the great Michael Bolton, the definition of what made 80’s arena rock so damn captivating. It has a mysterious synth introduction that builds tension like the steady rhythm of a diesel train hurtling down the tracks, a killer guitar solo from lead axe player Neal Schon, a riveting bridge which adds a dramatic flair, and a massive chorus chock full of soaring backing vocals that begs to be sung at the top of your lungs. It’s an arena rock masterpiece that has stood the test of time for forty years. I can’t get enough of it.
The rest of Frontiers is somewhat of a mixed bag, but the highs here are up to the task of meeting “Separate Ways” at the apex of the mountain. “Send Her My Love” has a haunting vocal melody that harkens back to the melodic choices of Sting with an interesting major/minor dynamic, “Faithfully” takes you on a journey that puts it up there amongst one of the greatest power ballads of all-time, and “Troubled Child” ambles along with a rollicking off-kilter syncopated beat from drummer Steve Smith which pairs perfectly with the groove of the rest of the band.
Standout Songs: “Separate Ways (Worlds Away)”, “Faithfully”, “Send Her My Love”
