Stripped down a bit, a lot more "earthy," Jon Bon Jovi's "Young Guns II" album is a nice breakaway from his efforts with the band that bears his name.  Fans of Bon Jovi, however, will find plenty to enjoy in this album.  For starters, the raucous "You Really Got Me Now," has an excellent "jam session" feel to it.  "Miracle" and "Never Say Die" give the listener a light dose of what made Bon Jovi tunes like "Born To Be My Baby" so much fun to listen to.  Then there are tunes like "Blood Money" and "Bang A Drum" that herald the coming Americana sound that Bon Jovi would play more of with their later albums.

Last but certainly not least, "Blaze of Glory" sounds like a hairband tune soaked in whiskey and left out over night.  It's the highlight track on the album and it alone makes this one worthy of purchase.  Also included is Alan Silvestri's "Guano City," a passable track from the score of the film.

Overall, this is definitely a keeper for fans of Bon Jovi or anybody who enjoys grittier rock.  Recommended.
Stripped down a bit, a lot more "earthy," Jon Bon Jovi's "Young Guns II" album is a nice breakaway from his efforts with the band that bears his name. Fans of Bon Jovi, however, will find plenty to enjoy in this album. For starters, the raucous "You Really Got Me Now," has an excellent "jam session" feel to it. "Miracle" and "Never Say Die" give the listener a light dose of what made Bon Jovi tunes like "Born To Be My Baby" so much fun to listen to. Then there are tunes like "Blood Money" and "Bang A Drum" that herald the coming Americana sound that Bon Jovi would play more of with their later albums. Last but certainly not least, "Blaze of Glory" sounds like a hairband tune soaked in whiskey and left out over night. It's the highlight track on the album and it alone makes this one worthy of purchase. Also included is Alan Silvestri's "Guano City," a passable track from the score of the film. Overall, this is definitely a keeper for fans of Bon Jovi or anybody who enjoys grittier rock. Recommended.