AC DC:- Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap

Release:- 1976
Band Members:- Bon Scott, Angus Young, Malcolm Young, Phil Rudd, Mark Evans,
Krillion's Rating:- 85%


Originally released in 76' but didn't find its way into the US until after 'Bon Scott' death. The original US version had some dreadful artwork, instead of the hilarious one you see above and a different track listing. The original which is reviewed here features 'R.I.P. (Rock in Peace)' and 'Jailbreak', which were substituted for 'Rocker' and 'Love at first Feel' on the US version. Along with 'Highway to Hell' and 'Let there be Rock' this is one of finest Hard Rock albums of the 70's and very often overlooked.

The opening title track is a plodding gem that is magnificently executed, the superb lyrics which tell the tale of hit-men for hire, sound perfect with 'Bon Scott' gravelly voice, the 'Young' brothers also shine with thundering chords and tasty hooks that support the rhythm work perfectly. The award for best cut however has to go to the brilliant building epic 'Ain't no Fun...', which develops gradually from a slow burner to a full tilt rocker. The bass work is just tantalising as it picks up pace throughout, although the lyrics are repetitive, they are still a joy. Not quite on target is the country rock sounding 'There's Gonna Be Some Rockin', which does get pretty incessant after the title is repeated for the fiftieth time. The live favourite 'Problem Child' follows, a simplistic but memorable rocker which is driven by some basic but trademark riff work, lyrically tough and well written and a sure winner for early 'AC DC' fans, a nice feature of this studio version is the carefree play-out at the end. Side two kicks off with 'Squealer' another quality builder, which boasts a raunchy, brooding approach with typical "close to the knuckle" lyrics, the guitar work is also complimentary as the 'Young' boys develop more crunchy riffs. 'AC DC's' journey into the hilarious takes on new heights with the innuendo heavy farce 'Big Balls', while its hardly my favourite song, it sounds great to hear 'Bon Scott' singing with a upper-class accent, lyrically its just designed to shock, but all said, its a fun romp. More class riffage can be found on the top groover 'R.I.P. (Rock in Peace)', lyrically it's no masterpiece, but is still another enjoyable carefree sing-a-long. Next up is the excellently penned 'Ride On', which displays a more soulful side of these tough rockers, while a tad slow for my liking its a commendable number which lays down a solid bluesy rhythm throughout. Concluding is the upbeat galloper 'Jailbreak', which exhibits fine drum and bass work and more great penmanship.

One of many early gems from 'AC DC', and this one is the most overlooked of all. If you like 70's Hard Rock, this should be on your shopping list.


Track Listing:- Dirty Deeds done Dirt Cheap, Ain't no Fun (waiting 'round to be a millionaire), There's Gonna be some Rockin', Problem Child, Squealer, Big Balls, R.I.P. (rock in peace), Ride on, Jailbreak,