Aerosmith, the iconic American rock band formed in the early 1970s, had its fair share of ups and downs throughout its career. One album that truly stands out for the band and their fans is “Done with Mirrors,” released in 1985. This album marked a significant turning point in the history of Aerosmith and played a crucial role in their resurgence in the rock music scene.
Prior to the release of “Done with Mirrors,” Aerosmith had struggled with internal conflicts, substance abuse issues, and a decline in popularity. The band’s previous albums, while well-received critically, had not achieved the commercial success they had experienced in the 1970s. Aerosmith was on the verge of losing their musical relevance in a rapidly changing music industry.
However, “Done with Mirrors” changed the game for Aerosmith. The album was seen as a comeback for the band, showcasing a revitalized energy and creativity that had been missing in their recent releases. Produced by Ted Templeman, known for his work with Van Halen and other rock acts, the album featured a raw and gritty sound that harkened back to Aerosmith’s early blues-rock roots.
One of the standout tracks from the album was “Let the Music Do the Talking,” which also served as the album’s lead single. The song’s infectious groove and powerful guitar riffs captured the essence of classic Aerosmith and resonated with both longtime fans and new listeners. “Done with Mirrors” also featured tracks like “My Fist Your Face” and “Shela,” which showcased the band’s signature mix of hard rock and blues influences.
Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, “Done with Mirrors” did not achieve the commercial success that the band had hoped for. However, the album’s importance lies in the fact that it laid the foundation for Aerosmith’s subsequent comeback in the late 1980s and early 1990s.
Following the release of “Done with Mirrors,” Aerosmith underwent a major resurgence with their next album, “Permanent Vacation,” released in 1987. This album marked a true return to form for the band, spawning hits like “Dude (Looks Like a Lady)” and “Angel” that solidified Aerosmith’s status as one of the premier rock bands of the era.
The success of “Permanent Vacation” was further cemented by the release of “Pump” in 1989, which featured mega-hits like “Love in an Elevator” and “Janie’s Got a Gun.” Aerosmith’s popularity reached new heights during this period, with the band embarking on successful tours and winning multiple awards, including a Grammy for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal for “Janie’s Got a Gun.”
In retrospect, “Done with Mirrors” can be viewed as a crucial stepping stone in Aerosmith’s career trajectory. While the album might not have achieved the commercial success of its successors, it laid the groundwork for the band’s resurgence and reaffirmed their musical prowess to both fans and critics alike.
In conclusion, “Done with Mirrors” remains a pivotal and often overlooked chapter in Aerosmith’s storied history. It serves as a testament to the band’s resilience, creativity, and enduring influence on the rock music landscape. If you’re a fan of Aerosmith or rock music in general, revisiting this album is a must to appreciate the band’s journey towards reclaiming their rightful place in the pantheon of rock legends.