Let the Music Do the Talking

iTunes Review

The mighty Aerosmith was in trouble by 1979, and its guitarist, Joe Perry, was out to prove himself. And so he formed The Joe Perry Project and recorded and released this passionate solo album in a fraction of the time it took Aerosmith to get anything done. Let the Music Do the Talking is an underrated and quite spectacular album, featuring some of Perry's most inspired playing and decent lead vocals from the usually reserved part-time singer. An additional vocalist, Ralph Mormon, is brought in to spike things up, and while he lacks Steven Tyler's elasticity, he rocks out tough funk to a convincing degree. Most importantly, the songwriting is strong throughout. The title track was eventually rerecorded by Aerosmith, and Perry took the reins for "Conflict of Interest" and "Shooting Star." "Break Song" is a fiery instrumental that shows what an enlightened power trio can do. (Mormon wouldn't last a full tour, but Perry found another capable bandmate in Charlie Farren, and the Project's winning streak continued with another energetic release in the following year's I've Got the Rock 'n' Rolls Again.)