Sometimes being branded a “legacy act” can be a kiss of death for an artist, even if their creativity and talent haven’t worn off. Bands like Journey, Guns N’ Roses, and even INXS struggle to gain their share of relevance—even though sometimes they draw solid numbers at shows. But some bands like AC/DC have members like Phil Rudd who keep the energy and magic alive long after retirement.
Phil Rudd Has An Energetic Resurgence
It’s no understatement to say that New Zealander Phil Rudd has had an illustrious career. As the drummer for AC/DC since 1975, having joined after playing in many Melbourne bands like Buster Brown and The Coloured Balls, he’s been described as “the real deal” by AC/DC co-founder Malcolm Young.
Since then, Rudd drew worldwide acclaim with unshakeable consistency and solid backbeats. It’s his drumming you hear on classic songs like “TNT,” “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap,” and “A Long Way to the Top (If You Want to Rock N’ Roll).” He’s also left his stamp on every AC/DC album except three, helping the band skyrocket to worldwide sales of 200 million copies.
Rudd has also gained a reputation as a fan of the excessive rock’n’roll lifestyle. After the “Highway to Hell” album went multi-platinum worldwide, he said he went “straight down the road to buy my first Ferrari.” Since then, he’s had a lifelong love of luxury cars. He’s even showcased his collection—which included a 1991 Ferrari F40, a 2010 Rolls Royce Ghost, and two Lamborghinis—as part of a fundraiser to relieve those affected by a 2014 earthquake in Whitechurch, New Zealand.
Rudd’s prominence was brought to halt, however, after being sentenced to house arrest after making death threats and drug possession. The sentence stalled the 2014 release of his first and only solo album, Head Job, recorded with Kiwi musicians and singers Allan Badger and Geoffrey Martin.
Classic Sounds with a Fresh Feel
With his sentence complete, Rudd is finally able to bring his album to the light. And for fans of classic rock with a fresh feel, it’s a real treat. All of your favorite and familiar sounds are here, from the thumping and walking bass lines to the suspended, flanged guitars that would make Queensryche weep with envy.
The melodies are also all surprisingly catchy, well-written, and compelling. Phil Rudd shares lead vocal duties with his two co-writers, and the results lend a refreshing contrast throughout the album.
Of course, a solo album lead by AC/DC’s drummer immediately makes you focus on the drums. And for sure, Rudd does not disappoint. His drumming is full of a confidence, energy, and surefootedness (please excuse the pun) that can only be honed after decades of touring with one of rock’s most essential bands. Songs like the titular “Head Job,” “Lost in America,” and “Repo Man” have meticulous grooves, driving beats, and even cool swagger when necessary. It’s equally understated and virtuosic, and totally unique.
Check out Head Job when it’s released on Amazon on September 30.