Neil Daniels continues to pump out books on classic, melodic rock, this time around being the first ever to publish an unauthorized biography of the band Journey. Daniels proves he knows his stuff as the book, as well as the additional features of what former members are up to in the current day, and the other career information about the band in the back of the book prove. This is a well thought out, well written and, at times, intense book.

While it is a good read, it focuses more on the songs than the inner turmoil and unrest that has been a major part of the Journey story. Part of the reason is that the band has a gag clause that those in the band, and close to the band, are required to sign so the dirt is well swept under the rug. One person, however, who never signed such an agreement, is former band manager Herbie Herbert. His comments throughout the book are the most honest and eye opening.

While there are interviews with most of the band members, it would have improved things to have more current interviews with major principals such as Neal Schon and former vocalist Steve Perry. That said, the book still is a great read. One will learn more about Journey than they ever knew.

While it would have been nice to get more into the back story on the inner band fighting with Perry, the allegations of replacement singer Steve Augeri singing to tapes and the little known alcohol and drug problems this band has faced, Daniels tells the tale with all of the information that was at his disposal.

This will be snapped up and debated by the Journey faithful but any fan of melodic rock will enjoy this one as Daniels does a fine job from beginning to end.