Departure (Journey album)

Musical style and songs

Musically, Departure blends arena rock guitar work, strong lead vocals, and prominent keyboards. The album contains several concise rockers and melodic tunes designed for airplay. One of its best-known songs, "Any Way You Want It," became a staple of Journey's concert set lists and continues to receive regular radio play. The arrangements emphasize tight hooks and driving rhythms rather than extended instrumental passages.

Recording and lineup

The core lineup on Departure featured Steve Perry on lead vocals and Neal Schon on guitar, with Gregg Rolie contributing keyboards and occasional lead vocals. This release was the last Journey studio album to include Gregg Rolie as a full-time member; he departed the group after this era and was succeeded on subsequent records by another keyboardist. The band collaborated closely on song arrangements to achieve a streamlined, punchy sound.

Release and reception

Upon release, Departure received attention for its accessible songs and became an important step in Journey's rise to greater commercial success. Radio-friendly singles helped broaden the band's audience and prepared the way for their breakout records that followed. Critical response recognized the record's tighter focus, though opinions varied about its move toward a more mainstream approach.

Legacy and notable facts

Departure is often cited as a turning point in Journey's catalog, bridging their late-1970s work and the big commercial achievements of the early 1980s. Its songs remain part of Journey's enduring live repertoire, and the album is remembered for both its energetic performances and for marking the end of Gregg Rolie's run as a studio member of the band.

Selected tracks

• Any Way You Want It
• Walks Like a Lady
• Departure (title track)