The Circle

The Circle is a rock-return work on which Bon Jovi, keeping a mature, grown-up viewpoint, again hones powerful, big stadium-scale melody. Turning from the strongly country-flavored previous Lost Highway, it powerfully returns to the band’s native, straight-path arena-rock sound. It largely enfolds a gaze at society and personal conflict with Jon Bon Jovi’s soaring, powerful vocals and a thick band sound. Led by the lead single “We Weren’t Born to Follow,” the songs carry a powerful, positive message reflecting the air of the era, such as economic hardship. An acoustic warmth and rock’s sure drive cross naturally, leaving a deep afterglow in each song. Richie Sambora’s guitar also powerfully supports that world. A record on which mature songwriting skill, not merely tracing past success, shines throughout. Rather than flashiness, it foregrounds the songs’ sure weight and powerful message. It achieved commercial success too, again reaching number one on the US chart. Showing Bon Jovi’s sure underlying strength as a rock band and its maturity, it is an engaging, fulfilling work.