Bon Jovi--Slippery When Wet

Bon Jovi--Slippery When Wet (1986) Rating--8.4 **U.S. Sales Certification--Multi-Platinum 12**

Ok, ok. I know... this ain't exactly what some on here would associate with "metal". But they contributed, nonetheless. In fact, they did a lot for the genre, commercially. And if you happened to be in high school when it came out, it was playing in the background of more than one party you went to...
An extremely catchy set of songs, with smooth vocals and sugary chops. A bit Europe-esque with the keyboards, and with a fair amount of hair-band riffage as well.
"Let it Rock" begins the fest with an anthemic chorus, and quickly gives way to a string of mega-singles. "You Give Love a Bad Name" largely defined the pop metal era, and became one of the ultimate sing-along tunes from the mid-to-late eighties. Hot on its heels was "Livin' On a Prayer," with a thematic approach and rolling framework that appealed to the masses. Still not enough? Well, the boys from Jersey struck a third time with "Wanted Dead or Alive," with a mesmerizing intro than gave way to a slowdown, methodical pace. If you can get past the obvious cheese held within the song, it's actually quite the trip; a great, overlooked Samboro solo is contained as well.
"Raise Your Hands" has a fast, slashing riff, and is good throughout. "I'd Die For You" just missed history, as it could have been "Big Hit" number four from this collection. Coming across as the thickest track overall, it also contained the vocal magic of the previous chart toppers.
"Never Say Goodbye" is the obligatory sappy ballad, but is decent. In all, simply a piece of your youth if you grew up in the eighties-- these are things that while you may want to push towards the back of your collection, you shouldn't forget totally.
TRACK LIST: Let it Rock/You Give Love a Bad Name/Livin' on a Prayer/Social Disease/Wanted Dead or Alive/Raise Your Hands/ Without Love/I'd Die For You/Never Say Goodbye/Wild in the Streets

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