Before American Idol, before falling off the stage more than once, before "Honkin on Bobo", there was "Rocks" and "Rocks" was good. "Rocks" is what many consider to be the last gasp of classic 1970s Aerosmith and I would mostly agree with that statement. Besides laying the blueprint for Guns and Roses and most of 1980s American Metal, "Rocks" just plain and simply f**kin rocks. The song starts out with hockey game hall of famer "Back in the Saddle", which is simply one of the ballsiest songs in rock history. The use of Joe Perry's baritone guitar provides that extra heaviness that I believe has not really been bettered by any other "Drop D" goofballs such as Korn , Static-X, and (who the f**k cares about them anyways). The hits continue, and "Rats in the Cellar", a spiritual successor to "Toys in the Attic" is one of the bands most energetic songs and almost justifies the bands excessive use of non-prescription drugs.
Side 2 (Rocks can only be heard on Vinyl, shame on you!) really is where the magic starts. "Sick as a dog" is classic Aerosmith, with a swagger and smoothness that only this band can produce. The harmonica work on this song is also great, showing Tyler's prowess at "Bobo". The real highlight of the album is "Nobody's Fault", a song that can easily be considered the first true American "Metal" song (no, Raw Power is not Metal!!!!!). The song alternates from sweet to sinister in a way that only Axl Rose would successfully be able to emulate in the coming years. A true classic. The bluesy "Get the Lead Out" shows the more traditional influences of the band, and is a nice addition to the album showcasing classic Perry blues guitar. The remaining songs are charming enough (Lick and a Promise, Home Tonight, and the classic Last Child), but lack the depth and sheer aggressiveness of the aforementioned songs.
Rocks is a great album, and any fan of the band will love this album. Quite simply, buy it and buy it now.
Rating-10/10
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