Aerosmith - Honkin' On Bobo

Dive back into the raw, gritty roots of America's greatest rock band with this original 2004 pressing of Aerosmith's Honkin' On Bobo on Columbia Records (CK 87025). Released on March 30, 2004, this 14th studio album marks a triumphant return to the blues influences that shaped Aerosmith in their early days – think the explosive energy of their 1970s classics like Toys in the Attic and Rocks, but infused with scorching covers of vintage blues gems from legends like Muddy Waters, Bo Diddley, Little Walter, and Mississippi Fred McDowell.

Often hailed as one of Aerosmith's strongest efforts since the '80s heyday (critics like AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine called it their best since 1989's Pump), Honkin' On Bobo strips away the polish of their pop-rock era (Just Push Play) for a raw, live-in-the-room vibe. Reuniting with legendary producer Jack Douglas – the mastermind behind iconic albums like Get Your Wings, Toys in the Attic, and Rocks – the band recorded much of this at Joe Perry's home ranch outside Boston, capturing that authentic, no-overdubs blues-rock fire. Additional production touches from Steven Tyler, Joe Perry, and Marti Frederiksen keep the energy high and authentic.

The Bad Boys from Boston – Steven Tyler (lead vocals, harmonica – he's absolutely "honkin' on bobo" throughout!), Joe Perry (lead guitar, backing vocals, lead vocals on "Back Back Train" and "Stop Messin' Around"), Tom Hamilton (bass), Joey Kramer (drums), and Brad Whitford (rhythm guitar) – are joined by special guests like keyboard wizard Paul Santo and the legendary Johnnie Johnson (Chuck Berry's pianist) on "Shame, Shame, Shame" and "Temperature," plus Tracy Bonham on vocals for "Eyesight to the Blind." The result? 11 blistering covers + one killer original ("The Grind") that roar with Tyler's screeching harp, Perry's sleazy slide guitar riffs, and the band's signature swagger.

Highlights include the high-octane opener "Road Runner" (Bo Diddley cover), the sleazy "Baby, Please Don't Go" (a wild take on the Big Joe Williams via Them), Fleetwood Mac's "Stop Messin' Around" with Joe Perry on vocals, and the haunting "You Gotta Move" (Mississippi Fred McDowell). This isn't polite blues – it's Aerosmith-ized: loud, sexy, over-the-top, and unapologetically fun, just like Rolling Stone described as "jubilant overkill."

Condition Details (Honestly Graded - Goldmine Standards):

• Disc: VG+ – Light surface marks from normal play, but nothing that affects playback. Tested and plays perfectly with excellent sound quality – that signature Aerosmith crunch shines through!
• Booklet: VG – Some visible wear/creasing on the folds from handling over the years, but the paper still feels crisp, stiff, and new-like. All pages intact, no writing, tears, or stains. Full color 16-page booklet with lyrics, credits, photos, and thanks list.
• Jewel Case: VG – Standard clear tray case with typical light scuffs/scratches, but fully functional with no cracks. Includes original front and back inserts in great shape.

This is the complete original US enhanced CD release – perfect for Aerosmith collectors, blues-rock enthusiasts, or anyone craving that raw 2000s Aerosmith energy before their hiatus. Ships securely in a protective sleeve. Grab this piece of rock history now – "Honkin' On Bobo" is a fan-favorite hidden gem that proves the Toxic Twins and crew could still deliver the blues with attitude!