Released in 1976, High Voltage would become AC/DC’s pseudo debut as the song selection was taken from their 1975 Australian-only releases of T.N.T. and High Voltage. While the Australian-only releases are highly sought-after by collectors, the songs that were omitted have since been released on the incredible ’74 Jailbreak and the rather extensive Backtracks compilation and are worthwhile checking out. That said, I consider the international 1976 version of High Voltage to be the true debut of the band as this edition is non-relenting in its rhythmic drive, ensuring there isn’t a dull moment from start to finish.
The excitement is naturally driven by the album artwork. While it may not be the greatest in AC/DC’s illustrious career, it suits the band and the album perfectly ensuring that the visual element is a perfect counterpart to the music contained within. One can only imagine being a record buyer in 1976 and seeing the cover art for the first time; I know it would have compelled me to pick up the album based on the artwork alone.
Moving forward into the modern era, music lovers can increasingly get access to the record via streaming services and while I’m still a proponent of physical media, the Apple Digital Master, available via Apple Music, sounds exquisite and I believe is derived from the core 2003 remastering sessions of AC/DC’s entire back catalogue that were the basis for the well-regarded vinyl and CD reissues. While some may lament the remastering of albums, it’s comforting to know that regardless of which delivery method you choose to listen to this classic album via, they’re all based on the same master. Plus, and some may disagree, but I feel the 2003 AC/DC remasters are fantastic.
It’s A Long Way To The Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll) is one of the greatest songs ever written and recorded. The inclusion of the bagpipes was a masterful move and showed Bon Scott as more than just a vocalist. The version heard here is, however, shorter than the original Australian-only release, so if you’re a purist you would be well-advised to check it out on Backtracks. It’s A Long Way To The Top (If You Wanna Rock ’n’ Roll) has also been covered extensively with two of the best renditions being recorded by John Farnham and Lemmy Kilmister & Jake E. Lee.
Rock ’N’ Roll Singer isn’t a bad song, but it isn’t one of AC/DC’s strongest. However, via the charismatic nature of Bon Scott, Rock ’N’ Roll Singer takes on a life of its own and we’d be worse off as fans if this tune had been omitted from the album.
The Jack is brilliant. The blues-based rhythm is compelling and it’s yet another example of AC/DC at their cheeky best.
Live Wire is a killer rock and roll tune and that intro is one of the best in AC/DC’s entire catalogue; perhaps only rivalled by the build-up of Thunderstruck. Regardless, Live Wire is an all-time favourite of mine and is a highlight from High Voltage.
T.N.T. is one of AC/DC’s best and is one of the greatest rock and roll anthems that has ever been written and recorded.
Can I Sit Next To You Girl is a great song, but it is Mark Evans’ bass tracking that takes this song from a run-of-the-mill bluesy rock and roll tune to a killer rock song worthy of the AC/DC name. Interestingly, Can I Sit Next To You Girl was AC/DC’s first single, released in 1974 and at the time titled Can I Sit Next to You, Girl with Dave Evans on vocals, Colin Burgess on drums and George Young on bass guitar. While the earlier version is out of print, and is different, it hasn’t been officially reissued since its initial release, but if you look on YouTube, you’ll come across uploads of the original.
Little Lover is pure sonic bliss. It may be a slow track, but there is nothing pedestrian about Little Lover. It is a shame, however, that it hasn’t been more prominent throughout the years, but perhaps that is a good thing considering I generally prefer Brian Johnson’s vocal delivery, but I couldn’t imagine anyone else singing Little Lover better than Bon Scott; he mastered it!
She’s Got Balls has a great rhythm and is a solid tune but it isn’t a standout. That said, the album wouldn’t be the same without it.
High Voltage is a fantastic song, a perfect title track, and an ideal closer. However, perhaps it’s just me, but having heard it so many times over the years, I can’t help but feel it’s a little overrated.
High Voltage is a classic album that captures the essence of AC/DC’s early years. It serves as a testament to their ability to create timeless, no-nonsense rock and roll; a constant element throughout their career. A core strength of High Voltage lies in the simplicity and authenticity of AC/DC's sound as the album doesn't rely on complex arrangements or intricate production; instead, it thrives on the sheer power of its raw, stripped-down rock and roll. The result is that High Voltage is amongst the greatest hard rock albums ever released and is a must-listen for anyone seeking a genuine hard rock experience.