Tuesday night, Wells Fargo Arena was filled with the electric energy of nostalgia, as legendary bands Journey and Toto brought the “Freedom Tour” to Des Moines. It’s clear fans had eagerly awaited the show with the early birds packing into the arena to get their tallboys and t-shirts. From the opening notes of “Only the Young,” the audience was on their feet, singing along and cheering.
Don’t tell anyone in Journey that they’ve slowed down in their 50th year as a band. You certainly wouldn’t know it by watching the group perform. The San Francisco band’s performance was a perfect mix of old classics and new hits, and the crowd loved every minute of it. Lead singer Arnel Pineda brought a powerful energy to the stage, belting out the lyrics with passion and conviction. He held more energy than every other member of the band on stage combined.
Of course, no Journey concert would be complete without the iconic “Don’t Stop Believin’.” As soon as the first few notes of the song played, the crowd erupted into a frenzy. The nearly-full arena was in full throat for the band’s signature song, which made an early appearance in the setlist. The band also performed other classic hits, such as “Open Arms” and “Faithfully,” which had the entire arena swaying to the rhythm. It was one of many instances where cell phone lights filled the arena.
The crescendo of Journey’s performance was the high-energy “Wheel in the Sky.” The band seemed to ratchet up their enthusiasm and performance a notch as Pineda did a lap around the arena floor giving out copious high-fives.
Toto opened the evening and did not disappoint. The band played a mix of old and new songs, but it was their classic hit “Hold the Line” that really woke up the otherwise somewhat docile audience early on. From the moment the song began, the fans were on their feet, dancing and singing along and it was clear that the band members were having just as much fun as the crowd.
But it was Toto’s biggest hit and set closer, “Africa,” which is always the highlight. Keyboardist and songwriter David Paith gave the song a bit of an unceremonial introduction by asking the crowd, “Should we sing THAT song?” Obviously, the crowd replied with their approval for the band’s classic hit. Toto performed the song with passion and precision, and it was a great cap to the 10-song set.
Both Journey and Toto gave polished performances, but it was the combination of the two bands that made the night truly enjoyable. The crowd was a bit subdued – possibly due to the Tuesday night show – but that didn’t stop both bands from giving great performances.
Toto Setlist
Afraid of Love
Hold the Line
I’ll Be Over You
White Sister
Georgy Porgy
I’ll Supply the Love
Home of the Brave
With a Little Help From My Friends
Rosanna
Africa
Journey Setlist
Only the Young
Stone in Love
Don’t Stop Believin’
Lights
Patiently
Send Her My Love
Where Were You
Lovin’, Touchin’, Squeezin’
Open Arms
Faithfully
Who’s Crying Now
Escape
Girl Can’t Help It
Wheel in the Sky
Separate Ways (Worlds Apart)
Be Good to Yourself
Any Way You Want It
