Toys in the Attic (1975)

Do you remember when Aerosmith used to be a rock n’ roll band?

Toys in the Attic was the third release from New England-based group and is on almost everybody’s Top 100 “Best Records of All Time” list.

Without a doubt, two cuts from this album are probably their most recognizable: “Walk This Way” and “Sweet Emotion.” The band altered its earlier sound for this record, and the result is cleaner and less heavy. But for Toys they were still all about sex, drugs and rockin’ blues, and there’s no doubt Steven (Tallarico) Tyler was one of the best lead singers at the time.

Guitarist Joe Perry kicks it off with the title track that includes a wicked solo over screaming vocals, not to mention the thunderous drumming of Joey Kramer. One of the most exceptional songs ever written about hearing voices in your head, it was said to be about heroin use. “Uncle Salty” slows it down and details the life of a kid in a bad home, while “Adam’s Apple” details the beginning of time with, of course, a nasty sci-fi twist. The novelty single, “Big 10-Inch Record” is an old 1940s cover. Records back then were 10 inches wide (they were also called 78s) and so the guys were having a little fun.

One of the better songs that Aerosmith ever did was “No More No More,” the token track about being in a band. With great bass and a killer piano arrangement, this is one of the better songs of 1975. “You See Me Crying” closes the album and has a nice, orchestral feel.

Toys and maybe 1977’s Draw the Line were the last, great Aerosmith records. The 62-year-old Tyler will take his band on the road in June, kicking off yet another world tour. (Dennis Donahue)

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