by David Tinson

Created on: January 24, 2009

Classic rock band AC/DC hit the number one spot on American Billboard album chart with BLACK ICE and it's testament to the band's popularity. The Australian rock legends have hit another high with an album that almost reaches the rocking heights of the 1980 classic, BACK IN BLACK.

For a band to rock as good as this some 28 years after BACK IN BLACK first shook up the rock world is a lesson in ultimate professionalism, longevity and just some of the best rock riffs and grooves this side of a Chuck Berry Greatest Hits collection. This is great rock music from one of the all-time great rock bands of the last 30 years plus, and this album also trumps the STIFF UPPER LIP set from 2000.

Opener "Rock n' Roll Train" throws up classic AC/DC riffage, one part Rolling Stones "Start Me Up," equals one part classic Gibson guitar tones, add a little train imagery and you've cooked up a classic tune perfect for Radio and another sure-fire hit for the band.

A drum intro introduces "Skies On fire" a typical AC/DC track with a gorgeous repeated bass line. "Big Jack" cranks up the intensity adding fire to the rock n' roll furnace and keeps the album rocking along in style.

However, next up is a departure for the band with the commercial sounding "Anything Goes" which is perfect for Radio. The tune is AC/DC LITE, with a touch of John Fogerty style vocals thrown in for good measure and yes, it works. The fireworks start with "War Machine" the first of a trio of biting, riff laden rockers that finally set the album on fire. Brian Johnson sings: "Come on, let's blow your mind" on "Smash N' Grab" amid solid drums, pulverising bass and razor sharp riffs.

Angus Young's Gibson, SG guitar and Malcolm Young's Gretsch do what there supposed to; provide a bedrock of rocking guitars and well constructed solos. An infectious riff opens, "Spoilin For A Fight" with the jackhammer rhythm section laying down a solid rock beat (the AC/DC rhythm section is one of the tightest in rock).

"Wheels" is another solid rocker with potential hit written all over it. More standouts include: the delicious slide guitar blues of "Stormy May Day" which adds real depth and variety to the AC/DC mix. Brian Johnson sings: "I could be, in a rock n' roll dream" on "Rock n' Roll Dream," and he's lived the rock n' roll dream since joining AC/DC and hitting pay dirt with the 10 million sales plus BACK IN BLACK album in 1980. The album finishes with the mean and moody "Black Ice" and it's game over; a great rocking return by the band.

AC/DC are on top form however, BLACK ICE has its fair share of fillers towards the end of the album but that doesn't detract from what is a very good album at this stage of their career.
Finally, the band have played an ace card with BLACK ICE and it's another fine addition to their rich legacy with a muscular rhythm section and Brian Johnson's unmistakable vocals. Savvy rock fans are sure to board this rock n' roll train.

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