My two cents on this: I've (sadly in part) come to realize that Bon Jovi always went for the sound that was hip at the time they made their records, even if Jon adamantly denies it (as well as confirm it by saying they want to stay relevant with what they do).

The only slight exception maybe Keep The Faith, but overall I think that's what they always did - take what's popular and try to make it their own (at which they mostly succeeded IMHO).

I wouldn't read too much into "why is this album heavier" or "why is WAN so pop". It's just Jon chasing fads...