Journey Returns To Las Vegas

The residency returns to The Joint at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino May 3, 5-6, 10, 12-13, 17 and 19. The Wednesday shows (May 3, 10 and 17) feature Journey performing its seventh studio album, 1981’s Escape, and its eighth studio album, 1983’s Frontier, in their entirety.

Between the two LPs, you’ve got big hits like “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Who’s Crying Now,” “Open Arms,” “Faithfully” and “Separate Ways (Worlds Apart).”

This time around, the residency will feature virtuoso drummer Steve Smith, who returned to the lineup in 2016 after nearly 17 years. Earlier this year he was named one of the “100 Greatest Drummers Of All Time,” by Rolling Stone.

RS writes, “His part for the inspirational classic ‘Don’t Stop Believin’’ is an intricate open handed pattern in which he plays the hi-hat with his left hand while his right moves around the kit. It’s as exceptional as Perry’s skyscraping vocals.”

Of course, any Journey fan could tell you that lead vocals have been handled by Arnel Pineda since 2007. The lineup also includes co-founders Neal Schon (lead guitarist) and Ross Valory (bass) along with longtime keyboardist Jonathan Cain.

“Journey’s first residency, ‘Journey Las Vegas,’ blew everyone away and we’re thrilled to have them back,” Bobby Reynolds, senior vice president of entertainment at AEG Live Las Vegas, said. “Journey is an iconic band and their songs resonate with so many people of different ages and backgrounds worldwide. Their second residency is going to be bigger than ever, giving fans what they want plus more.”

Tickets go on sale Dec. 9 at 10 a.m., starting at $59.50 (plus applicable fees). For more information, visit the venue’s website.