For over 17 years, Departure has built a reputation as the most respected Journey tribute band in the country — replicating the sound, energy, and feel of the original arena rock juggernaut at its 1970s and 80s peak. The five-piece band has been together since the beginning, developing an on-stage chemistry that gives their performances the weight of a genuine concert rather than a covers act.
The centerpiece is lead vocalist Brian Williams, whose vocal range and stage presence mirror Steve Perry’s iconic delivery note for note. The band also covers the early Journey era — when Gregg Rolie was at the helm — with keyboardist Joel Hayes (named Best Keyboardist in Atlanta in 2009) handling those sets.
Every note is live — no backing tracks — and sets can run a full two hours without a break. “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Any Way You Want It,” “Faithfully,” “Open Arms,” “Wheel in the Sky” — the full catalog, delivered at arena volume.
