Aerosmith
Rockin' The Joint
Columbia

Aerosmith has released a live recording of a Jan. 11, 2002 concert at the Hard Rock Hotel in Las Vegas. The CD finds the venerable band in a nostalgic mood as Steven Tyler, Joe Perry and company romp their way through some of their earliest songs. This is by no means a live version of the group's greatest hits. Fans won't find "Dude (Looks Like a Lady)" or "Dream On" on the CD. Instead, they will hear the underrated "Seasons of Wither," the playfully naughty "Big Ten Inch Record," and a rousing version of "Draw The Line," all from the 1970s. The set also reaches way back in time for an eight-minute rendition of "Rattlesnake Shake." Tyler introduces it as the first song he heard the guys play. A few newer tunes can also be heard, such as "Beyond Beautiful" and "Light Inside" from the recent Just Push Play album. Aerosmith is a veteran band that delivers a big professional show. That's what listeners get on Rockin' The Joint. Because the CD lacks many of the blockbuster hits, it will appeal more to longtime fans and those who like the bluesier side of Aerosmith. The sonics are good, and it's nice to hear to some of the older material. The CD finishes strong. Turn up the volume for "Walk This Way" and "Train Kept a Rollin.'" -- D. Kimura