Description
Bon Jovi – These Days – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Records
Released on June 27, 1995, These Days marked a significant evolution in Bon Jovi’s sound, moving away from the arena rock anthems of the ‘80s into more introspective and emotionally driven territory. Following the success of Keep the Faith (1992), which introduced a more mature and blues-infused approach, These Days leaned even further into melodic rock, adult contemporary themes, and socially conscious storytelling, reflecting the band’s growth both musically and lyrically. While it wasn’t as commercially explosive as Slippery When Wet or New Jersey, it became one of Bon Jovi’s most critically acclaimed albums, particularly in Europe, where it topped the charts in multiple countries, including the UK.
The album’s production was sleek yet emotionally raw, featuring darker themes of loss, disillusionment, and personal struggle, a departure from the band’s usual messages of optimism and resilience. Songs like Hey God opened the record with a gritty, urgent energy, tackling social inequality and economic hardship, while Something to Believe In took on an almost gospel-like intensity, exploring themes of faith and doubt. The title track, These Days, stood out as one of Jon Bon Jovi’s most poignant lyrical moments, painting a portrait of a generation struggling with disappointment and the weight of reality.
Despite the album’s heavier themes, Bon Jovi still delivered their signature powerful ballads and heartfelt anthems. This Ain’t a Love Song became a standout, balancing melancholy with grand, cinematic instrumentation, while Lie to Me showcased rich harmonies and emotional vulnerability. Damned and Something for the Pain added a bit of swagger and bluesy grit, ensuring that the album wasn’t entirely somber. Meanwhile, My Guitar Lies Bleeding in My Arms was one of the band’s most personal and introspective deep cuts, reflecting on the struggles of songwriting and creative frustration.
These Days was met with critical praise, particularly in the UK and Japan, where it became one of Bon Jovi’s most beloved records. In the United States, however, the album was somewhat overshadowed by the rise of grunge and alternative rock, which dominated the mid-’90s landscape. Still, it showcased Bon Jovi’s ability to adapt and mature while maintaining their core identity as a band that could deliver both emotional depth and stadium-sized rock.
These Days remains one of Bon Jovi’s most underrated albums, capturing the band at a moment when they embraced vulnerability, tackled deeper subject matter, and experimented with a more sophisticated sound. While their later albums would return to a more anthemic and mainstream rock style, These Days stands as a unique, emotionally charged chapter in Bon Jovi’s discography—one that resonates deeply with those who appreciate the band’s ability to evolve while staying true to their essence.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
Hey God
Something For The Pain
This Ain’t A Love Song
These Days
Lie To Me
Dammed
My Guitar Lies Bleeding In My Arms
(It’s Hard) Letting You Go
Hearts Breaking Even
Something To Believe In
If That’s What It Takes
Diamond Ring
All I Want Is Everything
Bitter Wine
