Imagine being among thousands of screaming fans, the atmosphere electrifying, as the lights fade to black and the unmistakable sound of Angus Young’s guitar riff pierces through the darkness. That is what AC/DC has been giving on their PWR UP tour so far showing the world that, yes, even after 50 years, they are still reigning supreme in the domain of rock ‘n’ roll.
The recent concerts of AC/DC have become the stuff of legend. Their performance serves as a poignant reminder that real rock never dies. Nothing has changed with the core essence of AC/DC years after years of passing time and its changes. A reviewer recently wrote that Brian Johnson’s voice may be frayed, and Angus Young’s hair might be pure white, their music still spirits as bright as it was. The review pointed out, “Johnson is now 76, and there’s no point claiming his voice is what it once was… No one minds: everyone in the stadium seems as happy as Johnson that he’s back in the band”
Their latest tour gives them a view into revisiting timeless hits from their back catalog, including “Back in Black,” “Highway to Hell,” and “Whole Lotta Rosie.” Those songs, with their inimitable riffs and relentless energy, hold within them the same power in people as they did all those many years ago. Angus’s guitar in perpetual motion with the tight rhythm section now led by Stevie Young forms a truly unforgettable live music experience. But special praise goes outgoing drummer Matt Laug, who handles the unenviable task of playing the parts of Phil Rudd without embellishment.
AC/DC ‘s PWR UP tour also made a stop in London, on their only UK shows of the year, for two phenomenal Wembley Stadium performances. It was a night full of rock bliss. Those lucky enough to get one actually got to the performance of the band, which included “You Shook Me All Night Long” and “For Those About to Rock (We Salute You).” It is still possible to do so on resale sites for those who failed to get the ticket, but hurry because it’s hot in there.
While it has varied throughout the tour, sets have mixed some of the band’s biggest hits with some fan favorites. Recent concerts in Zurich included “If You Want Blood (You’ve Got It)” and “Rock ‘n’ Roll Train,” mixing just the right amount of nostalgia with high energy. Each song testifies to their timeless appeal and ability to connect with fans across generations.
Although some reviews do note that there were some sound issues, the reception otherwise has been overwhelmingly positive. The Guardian’s review summed up averring, “a poignant lesson on the power of rock’n’roll.” The music, with its primal energy and reduction of AC/DC to its most basic aspect, seems to still strike audiences with relevance.
Got a few helpful tips for those who are going to be attending the future shows. First, Wembley Stadium has very strict guidelines on bags – one bag per person is allowed only of a maximum size of A4. Next, strictly prohibited items include weapons, recording equipment of any kind, professional cameras, and selfie sticks, among other things. And if you are really concerned about the weather, well, it might tend to be a little cloudy and rainy, but not too hard on a real rock fan.
But what mostly comes across with AC/DC live is the camaraderie or mateiness of the performance. As one review observed, “Johnson slings his arm around Young’s shoulder; the band convene around the drum riser at the end of each song, leaving the vast stage seemingly unoccupied.” This is real, translates onto stage in a chemistry that is at once both palpable and infectious.
There is doubtless some amazing emotional incentive the band can raise with its music. Be it the raw energy of “TNT” or the exact same spirit of rebellion in “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” these are songs that shall be remembered as pieces of rock history, executed with passion not diminished. As this band sings, “It’s a long way to the top if you wanna rock’n’roll,” they remind us of a tremendous journey and great heights reached. Not only has their music withstood the passing of time, but it also inspires and uplifts people all over the world as it is today.
For many of the fans, this will be the last tour, so the concert of AC/DC means much more: it’s a celebration of pure rock ‘n’ roll, the opportunity to see legends in action, and the moment one will keep with him forever. So, if you have the chance to see them live, don’t let that slip by. AC/DC clearly shows that rock ‘n’ roll is an attitude towards life, not just a music style.