Boston bad boys Aerosmith have returned with their first studio album of 100% new material since Just Push Play in 2001. Music From Another Dimension has reportedly been in the making since 2006, and justly reflects the ups and downs the band have gone through in the intervening years.
The music style of the album is loose, capturing all the best bits of their 42 year career, from the hard rock that defined their 70’s, to their later ballad work. While the musical style is a bit all over the place, it’s a useful tool to hear how Aerosmith have progressed since their inception.
Legendary Child, the lead single off the album, proves that guitarists Joe Perry and Brad Whitford haven’t lost their connection and riffing prowess, the song sounding like a throwback to their earlier hit Sweet Emotion, which possibly explains why this was chosen as the lead single. Out Go the Lights gives the R&B injected rock Aerosmith have perfected, sounding like Old School Aerosmith with harmonic and a solo that is so obviously Joe Perry. Street Jesus starts very blue-sy, before morphing into a speedy jam. Guitars are riffing, drums are pounding and lead singer Steven Tyler is effortlessly keeping up with his energetic vocals.
At this point in their career, no album would be complete without a ballad, and Another Last Goodbye delivers. The last track of the album, obviously about heartbreak, yet this cliche is backed up by Tyler filling his voice with emotion; pouring his heart out with a piano accompaniment. It mat not be the best sing-along, but you don’t need to sing, just listen.
Carrie Underwood guest stars in Can’t Stop Loving You, an interesting collaboration but Aerosmith and country just don’t meld together well, and lead guitarist Joe Perry takes on lead vocal duties on Freedom Fighter and Something. Adding to the uniqueness, backing vocals are handled by actor Johnny Depp, but that’s as far as the excitement goes, not sparking excitement in the ears of the audience.
While Music From Another Dimension! seems a bit all over the place, and possibly due to the conflicts that have plagued the (no longer) Toxic Twins in recent years, it’s obvious that there are a few gems in the diamond mine that is Aerosmith left. Hopefully the next album will bring a more concise and fluid sound that makes everyone prick up their ears and listen. Hopefully the next one will come by a lot sooner, but with a new tour and plenty of radio time, one thing is clear.
Aerosmith are back.
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