"Next" is the third studio album released by American rock band Journey. Coming out in February 1977, this marked the final Journey album to feature lead vocalist Gregg Rolie, who was replaced by Steve Perry on the next album. The album was produced by former Beatles producer George Martin.
While this album showcased more of a hard rock and jazz fusion orientation, it still primarily featured complex progressive rock arrangements. Three singles were released from the album; "Spaceman," "People," and "Hustler." Though "Next" did not have any significant chart success, peaking at 85 on the Billboard 200, it later gained more recognition after the band's later commercial success.
This album marks a transitional phase for the band, shifting from their original progressive rooted style to a more commercially accessible sound, which was fully incorporated with the arrival of their new vocalist, Steve Perry, in their next album "Infinity".
The album was aptly named "Next", reflecting the band's evolving musical direction and the imminent changes in their lineup. Despite receiving mixed reviews upon its initial release, it is now appreciated and remembered as an interesting phase in Journey's expansive and successful musical career.
