Is “Forever” by Bon Jovi a “retirement plan” album?

So Richie Sambora’s not there anymore, the “big hair” from the ’80’s are gone (but then again so are the ’80’s!), but the question leading up to the release of Bon Jovi’s 16th studio album was what it often is for so-called “relics” from the 80’s halcyon days of loud stadium rock : can they still hack it, or is this just another nothing album to satisfy a record label or finance another holiday home?

In this case, “Forever”, their rumoured final album, is a resounding “F&%# U” to the doubters, and proof that the old dogs still have life left in them, and they still have stones. The album is very good…and a great example of why Bon Jovi have not only reached the pinnacle but have stayed there for decades. They do rock very well…this album has some real “old school” bangers – there are some great rock ballads – no “Bed of Roses” level tear-jerkers, but some great ballads, and they do the pop-rock cross-over as well as anyone in the business. Their best ever? No, but one of their best, and I venture to say their best offering since Sambora left in 2013. In fact, probably their best since 1992’s “Keep the Faith”. I rate it 4,5 out of 5 stars. This is one of the best tracks on a great collection of songs…