After the announcement of their “Peace Out” tour, and especially after Steven Tyler’s vocal cord problems — which led to the statement that Aerosmith would never tour again — I thought we wouldn’t hear anything new from them in the future. However, after Tyler’s performance at the “Back to the Beginning” concert in honor of Ozzy Osbourne, and the Ozzy tribute delivered by Steven Tyler, Joe Perry and Yungblud at MTV’s Video Music Awards, I was glad — and I began to hope that Aerosmith had not spoken their final words in the studio. Indeed, Tyler and Perry wrote and recorded a few songs with Yungblud, which will be released as an EP under the title “One More Time”. The EP, credited to Aerosmith (not just the Toxic Twins), is due out in November, but the lead single from this collaboration has already been released. We listened to “My Only Angel”, and here’s the verdict: it’s a very good rock track. Compositionally, it’s strong — with a memorable melody, verses, and a chorus that sticks in your head. Vocally, Tyler and Yungblud’s voices complement each other well, while stylistically “My Only Angel” leans towards modern alternative rock. It doesn’t sound like classic Aerosmith — only Tyler’s voice and harmonica, along with Perry’s guitar, bring back that familiar vibe. From what I can tell, Aerosmith adapted themselves to Yungblud, and Yungblud adapted himself to Aerosmith. It’s clear that both sides made compromises to create a solid result. Now, you might say: “Who is Yungblud, that the mighty Aerosmith would adapt to him?” And yes, you’d be right — but once they made the decision to collaborate, it’s only natural and logical that the adjustments would go both ways. Besides, Aerosmith are doing the smart thing here. First, because they’re listening to the pulse of the modern era and its sounds. Second, because they’ve found the best way to seize the moment and step back into the spotlight! How will today’s youth get to know Aerosmith? By seeing them work with one of their modern heroes – Yungblud! The same goes for Yungblud: collaborating with the legendary Aerosmith will only make him even more famous. The result? A catchy, energetic track that you want to blast loud and sing along to all day. Yes, Aerosmith are alive and kicking. Their new song doesn’t sound like their old work (and certainly not like “Music from Another Dimension!”, which was a rowdy hard rock record), but it’s fresh, vibrant and gives new life to the American rock legends — perhaps even paving the way for a full new album stamped with the unmistakable Aerosmith seal!
♦ 8/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
