AC/DC – Back in Black (1980)

I can't remember who exactly said it, but there is a saying that there are two kinds of bands in the world, bands like Led Zeppelin, who constantly renew themselves exploring new sounds, sometimes succeeding big time and sometimes failing, and then there are bands like AC/DC who keep doing the same thing for years and years, but doing exactly that really well. Even if this is the case, I think it's easy to pinpoint AC/DC's golden era. In my opinion, at least, it's in albums Highway to Hell and Back in Black. What makes this interesting, is that these albums have two different lead singers. Back in Black is the first album with Brian Johnson, who replaced Bon Scott who had died earlier in the year. Usually the death of the lead singer would be such a blow to the band that they would have to quit or change significantly. But not AC/DC.



Brian Johnson may have even shriller voice than Bon Scott and for an infrequent listener it would be difficult to even know that they've changed singer in between. This is what I call a success, especially considering that AC/DC is known for it's vocals above all, even the tough electric guitar riffs. More recently, Axl Rose of the Guns n' Roses has joined the band on tour as their lead singer. I'm yet to hear any of that stuff, but I guess he's one of the very few vocalists who could actually fill these boots.

The album starts with chiming church bells and an ominously starting song Hells Bells, that is unusually slow song for AC/DC. It's a great opening song, an eerie calm before the storm. Shoot to Thrill sets the tone of the rest of the album with amazingly accurate rhythm guitar riffs and catchy rock n' roll beats. What Do You Do for Money Honey is a prime example of an AC/DC song. There are numerous songs that sound exactly like this song. Just from hearing the first guitar riffs, you know which band we're talking about. Giving the Dog a Bone reminds me of slightly older rock n' roll albums, such as the early albums by Aerosmith. Let Me Put My Love Into You is a big hit with a catchy chorus that became something of a rock cliche. The title track Back in Black has amazing riffs that show what you can do with simple beat comp on the drums and inventive rhythm guitars. The biggest hit on this album is You Shook Me All Night Long, that appears in quite a few lists for best rock songs of all times. Even if you haven't deliberately listened to AC/DC, you will probably know most of these lyrics by heart. The rest of the album continues pretty much in the same vein, but I could mention the last song on the album, Rock and Roll Ain't Noise Pollution that has a great bluesy groove.

AC/DC is known for their amazing live performances. Iconic guitarist Angus Young in a school uniform playing his red Gibson SG and Brian Johnson wearing his flat cap are absolute iconic rock legends. I'll link here the band's video for Back in Black that shows their performance live.

AC/DC is one of the most legendary rock bands in the world and undoubtedly the most well-known Australian band in the world. I have to admit that I don't listen to AC/DC that much, but I have lots of respect for their career and I couldn't really call myself a music collector if I didn't have any of their albums. Also, I honestly enjoy their music a lot, especially on a night out.

Listen to the album on Spotify.