These Days is easily my favorite BJ album. I don't find it depressing at all actually, I also don't find the lyrics to be particularly 'deep' - though, they do have more meaning than Bon Jovi or Farenheit. In fact, it's an album I respect ALL lyrics of - which I cannot say for Crush or Bounce (which I think show hardly any lyrical talent at all).

The only song I skip is Hey God and Diamond Ring - nothing wrong with it - just not my thing.

Favorite song is probably Damned - mostly because it is sooo different and doesn't bear the traditional BJ signature.

Diamond Ring was played at my wedding and I can't stand it now - it is cheesy and almost stalker material - though that might be psychological.

As far as Crossroads - I remember being quite annoyed at BJ when that album was released and it confirmed my view of them being done and over with just like the rest of the 80s bands. I didn't pick it up until fairly recently - like 2 or 3 years ago.

I like both new tracks on it - Always is an outstanding song as is Saturday Night.