Bon Jovi

Take a look at the charts: metal rules. And as the metal heap has gotten higher, it has also
widened to the point that it can include such disparate bands as Bon Jovi and Metallica.
Some might see no difference at all between the two bands, but to your average kid,
they're as opposite as shirts and skins. It's the difference between the status quo and
something really radical. Metallica appeals both to critics and to angry, pimply ad... More >

I see three ways to take the transparently pseudo Springsteenian sincerity of Jon's bid to improve his artistic reputation and his platinum multiple at the same time. You could lie back and enjoy its giant hooks, identifying with the masses all the while. You could cheer its de facto deconstruction of rock "authenticity." Or you could blow lunch. As someone who learned to love "Livin' on a Prayer" in heavy rotation at a swimming pool, I reserve the right to choose option one upon suitable stimulus from somebody else's radio. Now pass the bucket. (Grade: C+)