Released on September 19, 1988, Bon Jovi's fourth studio album, "New Jersey," quickly ascended to commercial success, demonstrating the band's continued popularity after their breakthrough with "Slippery When Wet." The album, named after the band's home state, made a strong debut on the Billboard 200 chart, entering at number eight. Within its second week of release, "New Jersey" climbed to the coveted number one position, where it remained for an impressive
four consecutive weeks, solidifying its status as a major hit.
This chart dominance was not limited to the United States. "New Jersey" also achieved number one status in several other countries, including Switzerland, Sweden, Australia, and New Zealand, showcasing Bon Jovi's global appeal. The album's widespread commercial success underscored the band's ability to connect with a broad audience, even as they navigated the pressures of following up a massively popular record.
Mixed Critical Reviews Amidst Commercial Triumph
Despite its undeniable commercial triumph, "New Jersey" received a range of critical reviews, much like its predecessor, "Slippery When Wet." Some critics characterized the music as leaning more towards pop than rock, and found the lyrics to be trivial or harmless. The band's perceived return to their "metal roots" was, in some instances, met with negative reception from critics, indicating a divergence between critical expectations and the band's artistic direction.
However, not all reviews were unfavorable. Some critics acknowledged and even praised the band's distinctive style. For example, one review noted that while the lyrics often delved into banal or clichéd themes of love and sorrow, they effectively conveyed feelings of joy, longing, and youthful solidarity when combined with catchy melodies. This perspective highlighted the band's skill in crafting memorable and emotionally resonant songs, even if the lyrical depth was sometimes questioned.
Enduring Appeal and Legacy
Another critical assessment, published in Rock Hard magazine, offered a more nuanced view, questioning whether Jon Bon Jovi was a serious rocker or merely a "Springsteen-knockoff in heavy garb." While acknowledging parallels to Bruce Springsteen and even U2 influences, the review ultimately concluded that Bon Jovi's incorporation of "fat riffs and successful guitar harmonies" earned him the title of a "serious rocker." This suggests that despite some critical reservations, the musical craftsmanship on "New Jersey" was recognized.
The album's enduring appeal is further evidenced by its re-release on July 1, 2014, as a 2CD "Deluxe Edition." This edition included the remastered original album, along with B-sides and previously unreleased demos from the "New Jersey/Sons of Beaches" sessions. A "Super Deluxe Edition" also featured a DVD with the documentary "Access All Areas: A Rock & Roll Odyssey" and "New Jersey: The Videos," both of which had been previously available on VHS. These re-releases underscore the album's lasting significance and its continued place in Bon Jovi's discography.
