Just Push Play - Aerosmith (Cassette 2001)

I finally decided to pick up the new Aerosmith album and have to say I am impressed. Blending the familiar sound they have with new elements and concepts, Aerosmith delivers an enjoyable and exciting album that pleases old fans and keeps captivating new ones. Every song has that classic Aerosmith sound yet manages to take the group to new musical territory.

"Beyond Beautiful" opens the album with a cool Indian sound and then the guitar kicks in with its driving power chords. Tyler wails the lyrics with power and the song really catches fire and the listener can't help but be taken with this unique song. Rubbing it in another guys face that he got the girl and that she is beyond beautiful this song is enhanced by great percussion and riveting guitar work.

The first time I heard the title track I wasn't sure what to think but it has grown on me. Different from anything Aerosmith has done, this song is half rap and half rock. It sounds really funky and has interesting vocal effects.
"Just Push Play" is a song you are either going to love or hate. I love it because it is cutting edge and interesting. Blues infused one moment and hip-hop like the next it will keep you guessing.

"Jaded" was a safe first release with its mellow sound and commercial lyrics. This song has grown on me and I love the laid back rock sound. The lyrics are pretty simple and effective and its easy to sing along with. The song is hook heavy with strings in the back ground.

The obligatory and highly loved sappy ballad Aerosmith is known for shows itself in the form of "Fly Away". The next mass dedication on the love lines will be coming with this song. I was of the generation who was dealing with young love to the sounds of "Angel" and "What It Takes". I like the fact that you can rely on Aerosmith like an old friend to deliver what you need.

"Trip Hoppin'" has a blues sound that recalls the mood that "Dude Looks Like A Lady" in the late 80's did. Complete with a horn section and fast paced lyrics the song is fun and lively. "Sunshine" is another winner with its fantastic lyrics and simple melody.

"Under My Skin" has a techno influenced beginning and really takes the listener by surprise. The guitar comes in and soon carries us back in to more familiar territory but the fact they tap into this rave trend is pretty cool and shows they can make use of pretty much any style and make it their own.

"Luv Lies" features some harmonic licks and is a really wonderful song. Very typical Aerosmith this song features a great key change on the chorus and lyrics everyone can relate to.
"I imagine everyone sometimes will cross their heart and hope to die
To Tell I luv you lies
I imagine everyone survives for giving up all that you got
To tell I Luv you lies"

The next song is more experimental with its wierd instrumentation. A rap sound and some strange sound effects combine and culminate with a trippy chorus. You can tell Aerosmith was having a blast in the studio playing around and the lyrics are rapid fire and flow really well. "Outta Your Head" has an outta this world sound and although I am not sure I like it, I do admire the creativity behind it. It actually reminds me of some of the off the wall stuff the J. Geils band did.

The next song shows just how integral Steve Tyler's voice is to the identity of the group. Joe Perry takes the lead on "Drop Dead Gorgeous" and all of a sudden it sounds like a different group. I like the song but it definitely sounds different. "Light Inside" is a nice fast song towards of the end of the album.

"Avant Garden" is a beautiful piece of work at the end of this album and another favorite of mine off this album. The lyrics are very laid back and the melody is intoxicating. This a great finish to an album that shows a lot of creativity, energy and the experience of musicians who know what they are doing. Aerosmith is a force in the industry and this album proves why the keep churning hits out year after year.