Aerosmith’s Debut Gets Deluxed

There’s a ragged glory to the eight songs that comprise the eponymous debut LP from Boston’s Aerosmith.

Though the majority of the material is largely overshadowed by the eternal hit “Dream On,” there are gems galore to be rediscovered here, especially now that the album’s been remastered and expanded by the folks at Capitol Records’ catalog division.

The Toxic Twins — Steven Tyler and Joe Perry — have reunited to deliver this newly mixed version of the original recordings and tapes alongside GRAMMY® Award-nominated producer and mixer Zakk Cervini and GRAMMY® Award-winning producer Steve Berkowitz. And in giving these eight songs a fresh coat of paint, this album has never sounded better than it does here.

Beyond the new mixes, the third disc contains a full deck of hidden gems. Among the treasures to be found include “Harmonica Bass Jam Jelly,” an unfiltered rehearsal and alternate take of “Make It,” a studio version of their signature version of The Yardbirds’ “Train Kept A Rollin'” and the almost six-minute “Aerojam” epic “Joined At The Hip,” which includes an early taste of “Sweet Emotion” on the bridge.

Another great find on disc 3 is a scorching live performance at Paul’s Mall in the group’s hometown of Boston, Massachusetts, where Aerosmith burn through tracks from the first album with the feral nature of youthful lions on the prowl. This set sets itself apart from normal live Aero fare in that it features a sixth member of the band, saxophonist Dave Woodford, blowing the soul out of his horn on charged versions of “Write Me A Letter,” “Mama Kin” and a cover of James Brown’s “Mother Popcorn.”

Penned by author and veteran music writer Rick Florino, the liner notes tell the story of Aerosmith in the band’s own words with new interviews with all five original members as well as perspectives, thoughts, and adoration from the likes of Dolly Parton, Corey Taylor of Slipknot, Mike McCready of Pearl Jam, Jerry Cantrell of Alice In Chains, Chris Robinson of The Black Crowes, Slash of Guns N’ Roses, Sully Erna of Godsmack and more.

 

VIDEO: Aerosmith “Dream On” (Lyric Video)

This excellent, expanded edition of Aerosmith is more than just the genesis of Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, Brad Whitford, Tom Hamilton and Joey Kramer as the future kings of rock in the Northeast. It’s a bold declaration of intent from one of America’s most legendary bands.

 

TRACKLISTING

CD1 – Aerosmith Original Album Remastered 2024

1. Make It

2. Somebody

3. Dream On

4. One Way Street

5. Mama Kin

6. Write Me A Letter

7. Movin’ Out

8. Walkin’ The Dog

 

CD2 – Aerosmith Original Album Mix 2024

1. Make It

2. Somebody

3. Dream On

4. One Way Street

5. Mama Kin

6. Write Me A Letter

7. Movin’ Out

8. Walkin’ The Dog

 

CD3 – Paul’s Mall Live Performance March 20, 1973 + Bonus Tracks

1. Introduction

2. Make It

3. One Way Street

4. Somebody

5. Write Me A Letter

6. I Ain’t Got You

7. Mother Popcorn

8. Movin’ Out

9. Walkin’ The Dog

10. Train Kept A Rollin’

11. Mama Kin

12. Train Kept A Rollin’ (Session Take)*

13. Make It (Rehearsal Take)*

14. Make It (Alternate Take)*

15. Write Me A Letter (Alternate Take)*

16. Harmonica Bass Jam Jelly (Session Take)*

17. Joined At The Hip (Aerojam)*

*Bonus Tracks