Livin' on the edge: Aerosmith arrives at Mohegan Sun

You know what's in a Graftobian kit?

Well, among other things: a Jet-Pro compressor with auto shut-off, a top-feed dual action airbrush, skin tone and natural blush make up, and Airbrush cleansing fluid for flushing between colors.

What is a Graftobian kit, you ask?

Why, it's THE makeup kit used by morticians everywhere. You know, to make the deceased appear life-like. I suspect you can find several of them in the backstage dressing room of Steven Tyler, vocalist of Aerosmith, the El Cid of rock - and very possibly an impending "American Idol" judge.

Just kidding about the makeup. Against all natural law, Tyler apparently has no intention of ever retiring or even dying.

And why should he? Despite his oft-erratic history, he still effectively fronts one of America's most popular hard rock bands. In fact, Aerosmith performs Saturday in the Mohegan Sun Arena as part of their Cocked, Locked and Ready to Rock tour. Expect no or very little new material - but you'll get a nuclear two hours' worth of hits.

- Rick Koster

Aerosmith, 8 p.m. Saturday, Mohegan Sun Arena; with the Mighty Mighty Bosstones; $135, $185; (860) 862-8499.