Aerosmith’s ‘Done With Mirrors’ Album: A Review of Their Retro Sound

the members of Aerosmith realized they despised failure more than each other. Thus, Perry and Whitford rejoined the band to try and restore their former glory with a new album.

However, old habits die hard, as Aerosmith struggled to let go of the behaviors that had led to their downfall in the first place. This reluctance to change was reflected in the reception of Done With Mirrors, which failed to meet sales expectations. Despite this, the album represents a significant turning point in the band’s career, showcasing a final burst of raw blues-rock energy before they transitioned to a more pop-metal sound that catapulted them to stardom.

The album kicks off with a fiery rendition of “Let the Music Do the Talking,” a revamped version of a Joe Perry Project single with new lyrics from Steven Tyler. The track highlights Tyler’s powerful vocals, complemented by Perry’s dynamic slide guitar and Kramer’s impressive drumming skills. Songs like “My Fist Your Face,” “Gypsy Boots,” and “The Hop” continue the high-energy rock vibe, showcasing the band’s undeniable chemistry and musical prowess.

On the other hand, tracks like “The Reason a Dog” and “She’s on Fire” take a more laid-back, bluesy approach, adding a different dimension to the album’s overall sound. While these songs may not be as catchy as some of Aerosmith’s previous hits, they exude a darker intensity that was somewhat unconventional for the band at the time. Despite still finding their footing as collaborative songwriters, Tyler and Perry manage to inject some fresh ideas into the album.

Unfortunately, a few key factors prevented Done With Mirrors from achieving classic status. The band’s collaboration with producer Ted Templeman, known for his work with Van Halen and the Doobie Brothers, did not quite hit the mark. The album lacked the sharpness and clarity of Aerosmith’s earlier work, and some tracks were missing the extra polish needed to make them stand out. Additionally, the album faced stiff competition from the burgeoning glam metal scene, making Aerosmith’s bluesy rock sound seem outdated in comparison.

The lackluster performance of Done With Mirrors forced Aerosmith to reevaluate their approach. Teaming up with producer Bruce Fairbairn and outside songwriters, the band released Permanent Vacation in 1987, signaling a shift towards a more pop-friendly sound. The album’s commercial success marked a new chapter for Aerosmith, solidifying their status as pop-metal icons in the music industry.

Although Done With Mirrors may not have been a commercial triumph, it remains a unique and intriguing entry in Aerosmith’s discography. The album captures a transitional period for the band, reflecting their resilience and willingness to adapt to changing musical landscapes. While it may not have achieved the same level of success as their later releases, Done With Mirrors stands as a testament to Aerosmith’s enduring creativity and musical evolution.