On their last album, Aerosmith were showing distinct signs of being locked into formula, as paented on 1987’s career revitalising Permanent Vacation. With Honkin’ On Bobo, however, they have certainly initiated a change of direction, if not quite the one that was expected.
This is one of those ‘back to our roots’ records that major artists release from time to time, based on the assumption that their audiences are prepared to shell out for their indulgences. In Aerosmith’s case, this involves a trip through their blues and rock ‘n’ roll influences with a mixture of covers and originals. It’s only a partial success.
There’s no doubting that the chemistry between the five enables them to whip up an impressive musical storm and there is a sense of genuine artistic freedom here (Steven Tyler and Joe Perry also produce). ‘Baby Please Don’t Go’ is given a good thrashing, while ‘Back Back Train’ is a deathly, dark blues number.
The great thing with Aerosmith, is that you always feel that they have it in them to pull something special out of the bag and they don’t disappoint here. ‘You Gotta Move’ ties in a Bo Diddley beat to rock funk rhythms and easily ranks among the best things they’ve done in years. What’s more, ‘Jesus Is On The Main Line’ is the real deal, a gritty Southern gospel tune superbly buoyed by Perry’s slide guitar.
Such flashes of inspiration are the reason why it will be worth persevering with Aerosmith. Honkin’ On Bobo doesn’t always reach those sublime standards, making it sound at times like the work of a big budget bar band. But it’s worth checking out for its high points.