Revisiting Aerosmith's 'Done With Mirrors': A Look Back at a Pivotal Album in the Band's History
Aerosmith's album "Done With Mirrors" marked a significant moment in the band's history as they reunited their classic lineup after a tumultuous period in the early '80s. Despite the band's efforts to return to their former glory, the album fell short of expectations due to their reluctance to let go of old habits. Musically, "Done With Mirrors" showcased a blend of blues-rock boogie that hinted at the band's impending shift towards a more mainstream pop-metal sound.
The album kicks off with the energetic track "Let the Music Do the Talking," featuring revamped lyrics from Steven Tyler and Joe Perry's signature slide guitar. Tracks like "My Fist Your Face," "Gypsy Boots," and "The Hop" exude high-octane rock energy, showcasing Aerosmith's unique groove. Other songs like "The Reason a Dog" and "She's on Fire" take a more blues-based approach, adding a dark intensity to the album.
Despite its musical strengths, "Done With Mirrors" faced challenges in production quality and competition from emerging glam metal bands like Motley Crue and Ratt. The album's production lacked the clarity and bite of their earlier work, and the mid-tempo blues-rock jams struggled to compete with the glam metal hits of the time. With modest sales figures, Aerosmith realized the need for a change in direction.
Following the release of "Done With Mirrors," Aerosmith shifted gears with the help of producer Bruce Fairbairn and outside songwriters for their 1987 album "Permanent Vacation." Embracing a pop-metal sound and achieving commercial success, Aerosmith reinvented themselves as pop-metal icons. "Done With Mirrors" stands as a testament to Aerosmith's hard rock era, offering a glimpse into what could have been if the album had performed better.
Despite its underwhelming commercial performance, "Done With Mirrors" remains a noteworthy entry in Aerosmith's discography, showcasing their musical evolution and serving as a reminder of their resilience in the face of adversity. Fans of the band should not overlook this album, as it captures a pivotal moment in Aerosmith's journey towards enduring success.