Aerosmith's 'ROCKS' Album: My Favorite Tracks and Memorable Moments

Introduction

Aerosmith's 'ROCKS' album (1993) is a classic in the rock world, a true masterpiece that captured the essence of hard rock. Each song on this album is a standout, but one can only choose one favorite. In this article, I will explore my personal favorite songs on the album, detailing why they stand out and their significance.

Nobody's Fault

Nobody's Fault is perhaps the most defining song from the 'ROCKS' album, setting the tone for the entire album. This track serves as a template for all hard rock that emerged in the 1980s and 1990s. It is the heaviest song Aerosmith has ever produced, with blistering guitar interplays between Steven Tyler and Brad Whitford. Joey Kramer's drumming is also a standout, perfectly complementing the earthy vibes of the song, which paradoxically revolves around the concept of earthquakes.

Lick and a Promise

Lick and a Promise is another favorite on the album, known for its irresistible air-guitar groove. This track showcases the band's versatility, blending heavy guitars with catchy rhythms that make it impossible to resist tapping your feet or picking up a guitar yourself.

Last Child

Among the standout tracks is Last Child. This song was initially a riff created by Brad Whitford and went on to become a masterpiece. The intro is cool and mellow, reminiscent of "Dream On," quickly transitioning into a fantastic slow-funk verse that draws inspiration from Dr. John's style. The harmonized chorus with the phrase "home sweet home" is particularly catchy, and the solo and bridge featuring harmonized guitars add another layer of complexity. The entire arrangement is like a well-structured building, where every element fits together perfectly. The outro is particularly noteworthy, with Steven Tyler's amazing rock vocals, accompanied by an excellent bass figure, creating an overall very cool experience.

Combination

Combination is another excellent tune from the album, a song that may have been lost in the shuffle. It was Joe Perry's creation, but radio play was limited due to an ambiguous title. The song title refers to Perry's personal habits, which he believed conferred some sort of advantage. The track's title and subject matter do not necessarily align with its appeal, which lies in its melodic and structured composition. Despite some confusion, 'Combination' is a standout, and listening to it again after years may evoke nostalgic feelings.

Back In The Saddle

Another noteworthy track is Back In The Saddle. While it is a straightforward choice, the contribution of the six-string bass Fender Bass VI to the song cannot be overlooked. Joe Perry's playing of the main riff adds a distinctive character and sound to the track, solidifying its place as a highlight of the album.

In conclusion, each song on Aerosmith's 'ROCKS' album has its unique charm and importance. Be it the heaviness of 'Nobody's Fault,' the catchy groove of 'Lick and a Promise,' the well-structured composition of 'Last Child,' the nostalgic value of 'Combination,' and the distinctive sound of 'Back In The Saddle,' each track contributes to the legacy of a rock masterpiece.