Back in the day, the collaboration between Run-DMC and Aerosmith was one of the first times I ever imagined that the lines of rock ’n’ roll could be blurred. It sounds strange now, but that version of “Walk This Way” was genuinely groundbreaking. Aerosmith have never been strangers to pop music, and nearly 40 years on, they’re at it again—this time teaming up with Yungblud for a five-song burst of energy.
There’s no point pretending I’ve been across Yungblud’s work. I wasn’t, at least not until he turned up belting out “Changes” at Black Sabbath’s farewell. But credit where it’s due: Matt Sorum introducing the two artists has proved inspired.
These songs are different. “My Only Angel” swaggers in with a huge chorus and even bigger intent. “Problems” is a mid-paced rocker that would be massive if singles were still a thing—you could probably say that for the lot of them, in truth.
“Wild Woman” is a bluesier affair, carrying half an eye toward “Wanted Dead or Alive’s” riff, and it has to be said that Steven Tyler’s voice dovetails with Yungblud’s superbly. Then, shifting gear entirely, the acoustic, laid-back nature of “A Thousand Days” brings a change of vibe that really works.
And then there’s the one you won’t want to miss. “Back in the Saddle”—one of the greatest rock songs ever made—returns here turbocharged and sleazier than ever. You can’t improve perfection, but you can absolutely give it a respray.
“One More Time” is a win-win: both artists exposed to the other’s audience, both lifted by the collaboration. Ultimately, though, it’s just a really good modern EP from a band that still knows exactly how to do it.
Rating: 8/10
