What About Now (Deluxe Version)

Much like U2 or The Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi has proven to be a long-lasting band that can adapt to the ever-changing pop-music landscape while keeping its signature sound intact. And the group does this with the utmost integrity. Rather than rehash the teased-hair pop-metal that put it on the map, Bon Jovi settles into middle age with anthemic country-pop bolstered by a New Jersey–rooted, Bruce Springsteen–esque amplitude. “Because We Can” introduces the band's 12th studio album with a triumphant gang-vocal chorus. What’s also commendable is how the group infuses hearty hints of Nashville production into its sound without abandoning its early stadium-rock leanings. “I’m with You” follows, swapping out those white-hot guitar leads for acoustic strumming and the kinds of haunting minor chords normally associated with Neil Young’s darker moments. In the standout title track, guitarist Richie Sambora nicely contrasts the song’s E Street Band–inspired grooves with innovative lead work reminiscent of Coldplay. Of the deluxe version’s three bonus tracks, “Into the Echo” is the most powerful.