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As far as debuts go, Bon Jovi’s Self-Titled 1984 release is astonishingly good with core musical aspects that were not only unique at the time but would become the band’s trademark as they traversed the musical landscape over the next four decades. However, longevity in this case wasn’t known upon the release of Bon Jovi but with the safety net of reflection, it’s easy to hear the origins of a band that would become loved by millions. Combining elements of hard rock, glam metal, and pop, Bon Jovi laid the foundation that would eventually lead them to global stardom.
Speaking of superstardom, Bon Jovi went on to sell more than two million units; a very respectable number for a debut. Most recently, the album has been reissued for the 40th Anniversary on Vinyl and Cassette, but in a strange dichotomy, the reissue remains absent from the humble CD. It’s a frustrating omission for those who are interested in the bonus material that the Deluxe Edition has to offer. Thankfully it is available via Apple Music et al and the Deluxe Edition can be purchased on the iTunes Store and the Qobuz Download store. However, it’s an oversight for physical media collectors. Additionally, this bonus content isn’t available via the Vinyl or Cassette releases; even as an included download. Making matters even more complex, Qobuz only offers the 18-track Deluxe Edition that doesn’t include the bonus music videos for Runaway and She Don’t Know Me. That additional content, however, appears to be an Apple Music/iTunes exclusive.
Despite the confusion, one thing is for certain and that is that Vinyl collectors will thoroughly appreciate the exceptional cover art for it didn’t only stand out on record store shelves at the time of release, but it will look incredible in any music collection as it's bold and demanding of one’s visual attention. While purists of the Vinyl format will suggest that the stream cannot compare to the Vinyl release, and I have no intention of suggesting otherwise, the Hi-Res Lossless Apple Music stream is spectacularly good, so much so that I don’t feel compelled to pick up the reissue. Yes, the stream is audibly compressed, and the volume has been boosted overall, but it works well for the style of music as it gives the album a bombastic feel, one that will grip your soul from the very first note to the last.
Additionally, while I was fortunate to have owned the Special Edition from 2010, I found it almost unbearable to listen to as it was mastered with nothing but loudness in mind. The Apple Digital Master, by comparison, is far smoother and more enjoyable to listen to. Yes, the stream is mastered loud, but not in an obnoxious way that will make you want to turn the volume down or stop playing the album. That all said, trust your ears, dear reader, and give the stream a listen as we take a look at the songs that make up this classic record.
Runaway is a high-energy number with infectious hooks, a memorable guitar solo, and Jon Bon Jovi’s highly compelling vocal delivery. There’s nothing to dislike here for out of all the songs featured on this debut release, Runaway is the one that became a runaway success (pun intended) and is the truest example of the sound that Bon Jovi would ultimately lean into as their career progressed.
Roulette combines a pulsating rhythm with driving guitar riffs as Richie Sambora’s guitar work and Tico Torres’ drumming stand out on this edgy number. While it may not be the first song that everyone thinks of when putting the album on, Roulette is an exceptional album-only tune and has another killer Sambora solo that, when combined with Jon’s vocal, makes this a hidden gem.
She Don't Know Me is a masterpiece. Seriously, this mid-tempo ballad is utterly superb and if you’re like me, you’ll turn the volume up and rock out, particularly during the bridge and chorus. Interestingly, it’s the only song that no member of Bon Jovi had a part in writing. Yet, it’s ideally suited to the band and was a perfect choice for the debut.
Shot Through The Heart is a powerful rock anthem featuring rhythmically charged riffs and a soaring chorus. Based on the lyrics alone, it would be easy to confuse the song with their later hit You Give Love A Bad Name, but the two songs couldn’t be more different. Still, Shot Through The Heart continues to showcase the origins of the powerhouse that Bon Jovi would ultimately become for this is another hidden gem in the band’s back catalogue.
Love Lies slows things down a little with this fantastic ballad. It serves as a great example of Jon Bon Jovi’s vocal presence and his ability to deliver a highly compelling chorus. Yes, had this been released a few years later, Love Lies would have been a chart-topper, but it’s songs such as this that make the album experience so rewarding for Bon Jovi is an incredible album, not because of one or two hits, but because of a series of incredible songs that were recorded and sequenced perfectly.
Breakout is 80s 101 with synthesised elements, a driving rhythm, and an anthemic chorus.
Burning For Love is a fast-paced rocker that’s, arguably, a little off-tempo as it pertains to Jon Bon Jovi’s vocal style. Don’t get me wrong, it’s a great tune, with a killer musical bed, and one that I thoroughly enjoy, but if I’m looking at this in contrast with the other songs on the album, and against the headlining music Bon Jovi has released over the years, I can honestly say that I’m glad they didn’t pursue this musical direction.
Come Back is a solid album-only number, but in much the same way as Burning For Love doesn’t quite suit Bon Jovi, Come Back doesn’t adequately represent the band's talent at the time.
Get Ready has an infectious energy that makes it an ideal closer; one that will compel you to play the album again. Despite not being a standout, the song’s upbeat nature ensures the album experience, as a whole, is memorable.
Bon Jovi’s debut is a testament to the band’s potential and raw talent as it presents a glimpse into the sonic signature that would make them one of the biggest rock bands in the world. With a mix of high-energy rockers and heartfelt ballads, Bon Jovi remains not only a significant and influential album in the band’s discography but is amongst the greatest records released in 1984.