This is the second album from this rock supergroup that came together after Journey split in ‘87. This album did a whole bunch of nothing when it was released and all the members said it was too poppy and corporate. When you look at the writing credits they were well aware the direction this album was heading as Russ Ballard, Dianne Warren, and Tim Pierce write commercial radio hits. Schon and Castronovo went on to form Hardline after this and would eventually return to the cash cow that is Journey.
I like John Waites voice and I think this record is not as bad as people would have you believe. Yup, there are syrupy ballads aplenty but there are some bangers as well. Straight To Your Heart, Dancin’ Off The Edge Of The World, Pray For Rain, and Life At The Top are all great tracks but it’s So This Is Eden that is the best tune here. Killer swing and groove with a hook and harmony to die for.
This is a super slick sounding record and quite frankly would be a great addition to any rock fan’s collection.
8/10 from The Grooveman.
