Rolling Stone caught up with Steven Tyler at Elton John’s Academy Awards viewing party on Sunday to check in for an Aerosmith update.
"We've been in the studio for the last month," says Tyler.
Aerosmith are recording their first new album of originals in more than a decade with producer Jack Douglas, who worked with them on some of their most vital 1970s releases.
"We’re gonna have a vintage sound, 'cause we’re going to tape and a lot of good things like that," said Steven. "We’re keeping tracks lean, not a lot of overdubs, and like I said, we’re using Jack to his fullest. So you’re gonna hear some stuff where you might think Aerosmith’s back."
According to Tyler, the sessions so far feel like back in the day. "I’m having such a good time writing again," he said. "You got the songs right now where they're like shells, with no lyrics and no melody, and I get to fill in the blanks like I did with 'Back in the Saddle' when it was just a track."
As for the tour…
"June 18th it starts," said Tyler. "So spread the word."
In the meantime, Tyler will be front and center in your living room as a judge on American Idol; Season 11 should wrap up by the end of May.
Aerosmith Aerosmith – Back in The Saddle
Tokyo Dome – Tokyo, Japan – February, 2002
See also:
Aerosmith: Joe Perry starts writing autobiography
UPDATE: Steven Tyler to appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live!
Aerosmith: Steven Tyler to appear on Jimmy Kimmel Live!