STEVEN TYLER - We're All Somebody From Somewhere
July 27, 2016, 7 years ago
(Dot / Big Machine / Universal)
Was American Idol to blame? Steven Tyler served as a judge for two seasons on the reality TV show that spawned country superstar Carrie Underwood, and now the legendary Aerosmith frontman has released his first solo album – a full-fledged, modern country music affair. Embellished with banjo, mandolin and fiddle – We’re All Somebody From Somewhere landed at #1 on Billboard's Top Country Albums Chart in its first week of release; but is tough to digest for those who still miss the glory days of Toys In The Attic and Rocks. At 15 songs in length, there’s plenty on offer: “The Good, The Bad, The Ugly & Me” is a fun ditty with homage-paying lyrics including “You ain’t no Tina Turner, get your Nutbush City on.” While “Red, White & You” namechecks Tom Petty, it could easily fit on a Kid Rock album. “What Am I Doin’ Right?” and “Love Is Your Name” are pleasant, enjoyable melodies that seductively embrace the listener.
However, “I Make My Own Sunshine” is so overtly commercial it sounds like it should be an orange juice ad jingle. “It Ain’t Easy” certainly has potential, but tip-toes its way from start to finish, never landing firmly. The re-working of “Janie’s Got A Gun” from Pump was completely unnecessary; that being said the cover of Janis Joplin’s “Piece Of My Heart” is brilliant. Long-time Aerosmith fans definitely need an open mind (and ears). Instead of imagining what Joe Perry could do to “My Own Worst Enemy” and “Only Heaven”, just take the tunes at face-value; soft soliloquies delivered by an oh-so familiar and endearing voice.