Released: June 7
Forty years on from their classic debut, Bon Jovi are back at their best with ‘Forever’ – a timeless body of work that captures the enduring essence of one of rock’s most successful acts of all time.
The follow-up to the band’s politically-charged ‘2020’ LP, the 16th studio album from the group is packed with stadium-sized anthems and huge ballads, carried by Jon Bon Jovi’s superb vocals and underpinned by his tight company of players.
“This record is a return to joy,” they say of the set. “From the writing, through the recording process, this is turn up the volume, feel good Bon Jovi”.
Opener and lead single Legendary is a testament to that, launching the record in jubilant style and paying tribute to the family, friends and band camaraderie that’s seen Bon Jovi sustain a four-decade career.
We Made It Look Easy continues the nostalgic theme innate to ‘Forever’, while the talk box effect on Living Proof is reminiscent of the band’s hit single It’s My Life, refreshing the sound for another sure-fire classic.
Having delivered some of the biggest singalong rock anthems ever, the band shows no sign of slowing down with Walls Of Jericho and Living In Paradise among the most infectious melodies on the new record that hold up among Bon Jovi’s very best.
Meanwhile, tender moments like Kiss The Bride – dedicated to Jon’s daughter – and I Wrote You A Song showcase the emotive quality in his vocal delivery, as does My First Guitar, paying homage to his lifelong love of music.
Arriving following a bout of health problems that affected his vocals, they don’t appear to affect the performances across ‘Forever’, which are undeniably strong. The more powerful moments might not come as easy as they once did, but his instrument of 40+ years has matured particularly well to deliver a standout record that’s fresh, slick and quintessentially Bon Jovi.
