AC/DC debut album ‘High Voltage’

High Voltage is the debut studio album by the legendary rock band AC/DC. Originally released on 17 February 1975 in Australia. This is different to the internationally released studio album of the same name in 1976. Although the internationally released version contains a different tracklist.

However, The international version of ‘High Voltage’ is more of a compilation of AC/DC’s first two albums – ‘High Voltage’ and ‘T.N.T’. The debut Australian album features a raw and unpolished sound that would come to define AC/DC’s early work. This was largely due to the production of Harry Vanda and George Young. The two worked with the band to capture their high-energy live sound in the studio. The album features a mix of original compositions and covers, showcasing the band’s versatility and range.

AC/DC Merchandise

The opening track on the 1975 version of ‘High Voltage’ is “Baby, Please Don’t Go,” which is a cover of the blues classic originally written by Big Joe Williams. This track features Bon Scott’s distinct vocals, Angus Young’s fiery guitar riffs, and the band’s signature high-energy performance. Moreover, the track sets the tone for the album, showcasing the band’s raw and unpolished sound, as well as their ability to inject their own unique style into classic blues songs.

In Australia High Voltage was a commercial success. It paved the way for the band’s international success in the years to come. AllMusic spoke of the young AC/DC “A very young band who were still coming into their own at the time, and that process of self-discovery is what makes the original version of High Voltage both the most inconsistent and unique of all the Bon Scott albums.”

I’m not sure why but the original Australian release of ‘High Voltage’ is not available on Spotify. Looks like there are some keen collectors on Discogs as there’s one LP for sale for the price of $1,013.55.