AC/DC - Black Ice

AC/DC is one of the few bands that can honestly say that they have been true to their roots, and that’s saying a lot considering the rock and rollers have been in existence since 1973. The band came up with a winning formula of Rock ‘N Boogie early in their career, and have never really needed anything else to create great music. But, in spite of the striking similarity in the band’s music album after album, it has always been hard to get enough of the Aussies.

There has been great hype created around the band’s latest release, Black Ice following Stiff Upper Lip after a lag of eight years. For those expecting the same old rock and roll ride, there is a surprise in store, for Black Ice is quite possibly the band’s cleanest and most versatile album.

Black Ice is a 55 minute journey one takes to discover the union between the conventional AC/DC and the AC/DC on the brink of re-invention. Interestingly the album should appeal to both the proponents and the protestors of the age-old AC/DC hard sound, for it includes not only pounding riff driven tracks, but also more mellow and soulful numbers.

‘Rock ‘N Roll Train’ and ‘Big Jack’ comes straight out any of classic AC/DC album, decorated tastefully with Brian Johnson’s macho vocals and Angus’s sleazy blues lines. ‘Rock ‘N Roll Dream’ on the other hand finds Brian, adorning a softer make up, and yet again on the popish sounding ‘Anything Goes’. ‘Money Made’, reveals a soulful side to Johnson’s vocals, which are reinforced by link natured backing vocals.

Although the band’s success automatically gets credited to Angus Young’s antics on stage, or the stage presence associated with their front men, AC/DC’s secret weapon has always been their rhythm section. Drummer Phil Rudd, bassist Cliff Williams and the elder Young brother, Malcolm have always been the core of the band and the key ingredient for the band’s success. ‘Wheels’ and ‘Skies On Fire’ feature the band playing as tight as they have ever played.

The Young brothers have made a living out of belting out the catchiest riffs from simple beginner chords, that leaves most wondering, “why didn’t I think about that”. The riffs are possibly the most enjoyable aspect of every AC/DC album. The opening riffs to ‘She Likes Rock ‘N Roll’ and the title track are by far the stand out tracks for those hunting for some head shaking guitar work.

One serious drawback to the clean sound aimed at the album would be that it has killed the trademark AC/DC sound, identified by its muddy and filthy distortion. Other than that band has a come up with a great album, one that would do them real good. Especially considering the album has been released at a time, which is conducive for the resurgence of the band’s popularity, a period where there has been a renewal interest in bands of the yesteryears.

Black Ice - the return of the mighty Aussies.