by Jennifer Cornish

Created on: January 29, 2010   Last Updated: January 30, 2010

It was a long wait. 8 years to be exact, but October 2008 saw the highly anticipated released of AC/DC's 15th studio album, 'Black Ice', and in my opinion this is one of their best albums.

The band :

Angus Young - Lead Guitar
Malcolm Young - Rhythm Guitar
Brian Johnson - Vocals
Cliff Williams - Bass
Phil Rudd - Drums

In their 8 year absence, Angus and Malcolm Young had continued to write music and although there were several rumours of a new album coming, I must admit as the years rolled by I was beginning to think it was not going to happen. If it had not been for an injury to bassist Cliff Williams, which left him unable to play the guitar for eighteen months, and also a change of record label, then the album may have been released back in 2006.

I bought the album on its day of release as both myself and partner are fans of the band and decided after listening to it that it is full of great hooks, riffs and also showing more vocal range from singer Brian Johnson, which apparently he was encouraged by producer Brendan O'Brien to show his more soulful side. The trademark guitar solos's from Angus Young are in evidence, particularly on the track 'Decibel' which is simply Angus at his best. The idea for the title 'Black Ice' came as Angus recalled playing gigs in Scotland (the Young brothers birthplace) in the winter, and the 'black ice' warnings.

There are 15 tracks on the album, which kicks off with 'Rock n Roll Train', a solid opening track which is also the first single release from the album, and is typical AC/DC, with great riffs and rousing chorus with Phild Rudd providing his relentless drumming. 'Anything Goes' is one of my favourite tracks, with a great rhythm and catchy chorus, as is 'Stormy May Day' which sees Angus playing slide guitar on a slower, blues-rock track with a simple but solid rhythm and bassline. 'Skies On Fire' is another favourite of mine with good guitar riffs and chorus.

There are a few 'slower' tracks on Black Ice, but then again the guys are getting on! However, it is still typical AC/DC with the brilliant pounding rhythm's and still contains Brian Johnson's screaming vocal, although as I pointed out earlier, you do see a 'softer' side to his voice on this album, where he injects a little bit of soul into his vocals and has never sounded better! 'Big Jack' is a big song which is certain to be a crowd pleaser on tour if played live. Fast-paced with rousing vocals and chorus, as is 'War Machine' which I think is the

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