AC/DC - High Voltage
AC/DC – High Voltage introduced international audiences to the raw, uncompromising rock and roll sound that would make AC/DC one of the biggest bands in the world. Released internationally in 1976, the album brought together material from the band's first two Australian releases and established the essential ingredients of their unmistakable style: huge guitar riffs, driving rhythms and the charismatic vocals of Bon Scott.
Featuring classics such as "It's a Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll)", "T.N.T.", "The Jack", "Live Wire" and the title track "High Voltage", the album captures AC/DC in their early years with an infectious combination of energy, swagger and humour. Angus Young's explosive lead guitar and Malcolm Young's relentless rhythm playing provide the foundation for songs built to be played loud.
There is a youthful rawness to High Voltage that distinguishes it from the enormous stadium-rock records that would follow, but the band's identity was already firmly established. Simple, powerful riffs and memorable choruses demonstrated that AC/DC had little interest in musical fashion and instead intended to perfect their own distinctive version of hard rock.
High Voltage remains an essential early chapter in the AC/DC story and a thrilling introduction to the Bon Scott era, packed with songs that continue to form an important part of the band's legacy.