On this day, in 1975, AC/DC released their debut album, High Voltage. This seminal long-player differs from the 1976 international release of the same name which comprises tracks taken from the original version and its follow up, T.N.T. (AC/DC's debut and sophomore albums were only available in Australia.)
Though AC/DC were yet to scale the heights of international rock stardom their debut is well worth a visit for any fan. Tracks like “Show Business,” ”Little Lover,” and “She’s Got Balls” (the latter two were included on 1976’s international High Voltage release) were warning shots from a musical force that would soon unleash its full cannonade.
Ultimately, Oz wasn’t big enough to contain AC/DC.
This amazing clip filmed in 1975 just months after the debut High Voltage release shows the band kicking ass as they perform the album's closer, "Show Business."
Already, Angus Young has found his feet as he literally puts his own stamp on the stage while duckwalking around strapped with a Gibson SG (and a satchel, of course.)
Though Malcolm Young is renowned as one of the best rhythm guitarists in music history, it’s nice to see him performing lead duties here. He was also a fantastic lead player who shared much in common with his brother stylistically.
“If Malcolm sits down to play a solo,” said Angus, “he can do it better than me.”
Eagle eyed viewers may notice Malcolm Young’s Gretsch Jet Fire Bird (opens in new tab) is still sporting its original red finish. This famously modified electric guitar was later stripped and had all pickups but the rear/bridge Filter’Tron removed.
Browse the AC/DC catalog here (opens in new tab).
Rod Brakes is a music writer with an expertise in all things guitar-related. Having spent many years at the coalface as a guitar dealer and tech, Rod's more recent work as a journalist covering artists, industry pros and gear includes writing hundreds of articles and features for the likes of Guitarist, Total Guitar, Guitar World, Guitar Player and MusicRadar, as well as contributions for specialist books, blogs and social media. He is also a lifelong musician.
