Review Summary: Flick Of The Switch may not be Back In Black 2, but it's damn good rock and roll.
One of AC/DC's most underrated albums ever, Flick Of The Switch is an album that hits the spot for any hardcore fan of the Aussie boys. While not without it's obvious flaws, this album is actually quite enjoyable, and why it is hated so much I have no idea. It's a little less melodic than For Those About To Rock (We Salute You), but what it lacks in melodicness it makes up for in high energy.
AC/DC is:
Angus Young-Lead Guitar
Malcolm Young-Rhythm Guitar
Brian Johnson-Vocals
Phil Rudd-Drums
Cliff Williams-Bass Guitar
For the pros, the sheer power and energy coming from most of this album is fantastic. Sure it's just your typical rock and roll album using power chords and whatnot, but the context in which they are used is undeniably awesome. The production is in the same league as their previous albums, clear sound but dirty rock and roll. Good old AC/DC. While it may get repetetive listening to the same chords for most of the songs, the album is very consistent. Take the title track for example... we have all heard the A, C, D chord progression (for all you musicians out there) in one time or another in the crazy world of rock and roll. But, would that stop the boys from writing the best song on the album? No. Just add a little chromatic riff in between and you're good to go right? Pretty much. Power and energy over paranoia of repetetiveness. I happen to like Brian Johnsons vocals, as they are very screeching rock and roll. He wouldn't stand a chance on American Idol, but here he gets the job done. Songs like Bedlam In Belgium and Landslide are straight up rockers, and are just what the album needs more of.
But, this album doesn't go without it's flaws. One of the most noticeable ones... Angus Young. What!? Average guitar solos?! This albums got 'em. What happened to the memorable guitar solos in the likes of Back In Black and Whole Lotta Rosie? Nowhere to be found. Just your standard blues licks here, which is fine for some people... but lets face it, once you hear a great memorable solo like the one on Shot Down In Flames, you can't go back to uninspired. Other noticeable flaws, the drums and bass don't really add much to the songs, but it's AC/DC... it's a part of their trademark sound. Songs like This House Is On Fire and Badlands are just plain boring, and worth skipping.
So the final verdict of Flick Of The Switch? Get it if you already have a thing for AC/DC. If not, start with Back In Black, Highway To Hell, or Let There Be Rock as they are classics and will more than likely have you rocking out till the break of dawn.
Rising Power- 4/5
This House Is On Fire- 3/5
Flick Of The Switch- 5/5
Nervouse Shakedown- 4/5
Landslide- 5/5
Guns For Hire- 4.5/5
Deep In The Hole- 3.5/5
Bedlam In Belgium- 5/5
Badlands- 2.5/5
Brain Shake- 4.5/5
