Coming on the heels of the commercially and artistically successful
Pump
, the fitfully entertaining
Get a Grip
doesn't match its predecessor's musical diversity, but it's not for lack of trying. In fact,
Aerosmith
try too hard, making a stab at social commentary (
"Livin' on the Edge"
) while keeping adolescent fans in their corner with their trademark raunch-
rock
(
"Get a Grip"
and
"Eat the Rich"
), as well as having radio-ready hit
ballads
"Cryin',"
"Amazing,"
"Crazy"
). It might be a studied performance, but since the album sounds good, many listeners will be willing to overlook those flaws and simply enjoy the ride. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine