Evolution (Journey album)

Evolution is the fifth studio album by the American rock band Journey, released in 1979. It marked a significant turning point in the band's sound, shifting from a more progressive rock style towards a more commercially accessible hard rock and AOR (album-oriented rock) sound.

The album features the hit singles "Just the Same Way," "Lovin', Touchin', Squeezin'," and "Too Late." It was the first album to feature drummer Steve Smith, replacing Aynsley Dunbar. Smith's more straightforward and powerful drumming style contributed to the band's shift in sound.

Evolution was produced by Roy Thomas Baker, known for his work with Queen and other prominent rock bands. The album reached number three on the Billboard 200 chart, becoming Journey's breakthrough album and achieving multi-platinum certification.

The success of Evolution solidified Journey's position as a major force in the American rock music scene and paved the way for their subsequent, even more commercially successful albums. It is often considered a quintessential example of late 1970s AOR.