Rock this way -- Aerosmith in Paso

A loud and prolonged screech during the song “Cryin’” threatened to pierce eardrums at the Mid-State Fair’s main arena Wednesday night, leaving no doubt that throat surgery hasn’t hampered Steven Tyler’s legendary rock and roll vocals.

At 59, you’d figure Tyler’s voice would have to suffer the fate of some of his peers who’ve lost range. But, as he pointed out numerous times in Paso Robles, it seems as versatile and sharp as it did back in 1975.

Aerosmith’s sold-out show kicked off the fair with volume and energy, as many of the 14,000 in attendance danced, sang along and recorded videos on their cell phones. With a mix of songs both pre- and post-Run-DMC, the band filled the Paso air with an even mix of rockers and ballads.

That the band still has all its members after nearly 30 years is somewhat of a miracle – especially given its reputation for excess. But even more impressive is that Aersosmith has remained relevant – not just another washed up group of has-beens playing free stages.

While the entire band is solid, it’s clearly the Toxic Twins – singer Tyler and guitarist Joe Perry – who steal the show night after night, as they did Wednesday.

With a set list that included “Jaded,” “Sweet Emotion,” “Living on the Edge” and “Walk This Way,” Aerosmith’s first trip to San Luis Obispo County was befitting a group of Rock and Roll Hall of Famers, despite a couple of slow points, some uneven sound mixing and maybe a poor song choice or two.

Since the concert ended past our deadlines, we’ll have a full review of the concert in Friday’s Tribune.

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Among the fans spotted at the concert: porn star-turned reality TV celebrity Ron Jeremy. After the show, Jeremy was seen waiting outside the main entrance, occasionally greeting fans, some of whom took photos with him on their cell phones. One fan even introduced Jeremy to his mother.

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One thing Aerosmith and opening act Rhodes have in common: The lead singers of both bands started out as drummers with other groups. Rhodes, a local band featuring singer Daniel Whittington, was awarded the coveted opening spot Wednesday, scoring their biggest gig to date. While they played to a large audience, it would’ve been bigger had the crowd not bottle-necked the entrance around 7:30.

--Pat P.