AC/DC “POWER UP”

Once a rocker always a rocker! Let there be rock! Let there be AC/DC! AC/DC return with their seventeenth album POWER UP proving that there’s still plenty of fire in the belly. Guitars, bass and drums, it’s not complicated but AC/DC do it so well and have done again. There’s no denying the legacy that this band has built being revered and adored by fans all around the world. Despite the difficulties of 2020, the passing of Malcolm Young, Brian Johnson’s hearing related issues, Phil Rudd’s tumultuous private life with both returning to the band, they have combined to make an album that the fans have craved this year… a healthy dose of rock music.

Malcolm may have sadly passed but his influence shines on this album being credited as co-writing each song with brother Angus. Keeping it in the family Stevie Young joins the fold on rhythm guitar and Cliff Williams is back on bass after a brief retirement. POWER UP really does bask in the early glory of Brian Johnson era with albums in the ilk of For Those About To Rock We Salute You and Flick Of The Switch coming to mind.

First single from the album Shot In The Dark is an absolute belter and brand new single Realise is vintage Acca Dacca all the way. Rejection has thumping drums to kick start this one before settling in to that AC/DC groove that fans are familiar with. Demon Fire is a cracking tune to get the head shaking to with plenty of catchy hooks and Kick You When You’re Down gets the thumbs up as well. Witch’s Spell, Wild Reputation and Systems Down are no doubt destined for the live set we can only anticipate for.

Regardless of what happens from here AC/DC still remain firmly entrenched at the top of their game. If POWER UP is their final album what a way to go out.

Album Review By Rob Lyon