While it was exciting to hear that the lads were finally putting out a new live album unfortunately this one falls a bit flat. Set list gripes aside (too much material from Black Ice) the band just sounds flat. Many of the songs lack punch with most tempos noticeably slowed down. AC/DC only exists because their live energy has always been frenetic and a live album is only successful when it conveys that power to the listener. But with no intensity emanating from the stage, the performance sounds phoned in. Angus's solos sound a bit watered down and contrived, a stark contrast to other recordings where his playing sounds much more spontaneous. Johnson's vocals lack power and passion, like he is trying to make sure he has enough gas in the tank to make it to the end. They don't sound bad, the whole thing is just a bit underwhelming. This is real surprising since even as recently as the live DVD for the Stuff Upper Lip tour the band were devastatingly good live. It's just not there anymore. Stick to the AC/DC: Live album from the 90s, it's a much better live artifact of the band.
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