Til the End of Forever

by Rob Theakston Til the End of Forever is a treat for die-hard Boltheads. The first half of the album is comprised of freshly minted material that follows the tried and true Bolton formula: well-polished, accessible ballads tempered with upbeat numbers that are wholly inoffensive to the ears. Duets with Liz Sharpe and Jim Brickman help pick the first half up when it could have easily dragged on into monotony, and it ends with a reggae version of Bolton's hit "Said I Loved You...But I Lied." Although it's inexplicable as to why he felt the need to re-record the song in this style, it is nevertheless enjoyable. However, it's the second half of the disc where Bolton truly shines. In a ten-song concert that also doubles as a greatest-hits survey of his career, Bolton tears his way through hit after hit with no filler in sight. While this may not be the ideal place for newcomers to start exploring the mighty Bolton catalog, Til the End of Forever is a must-have for die-hard loyalists.