What makes Big Gun by AC/DC notable?

The release of 'Big Gun' marked a strong revival for AC/DC, peaking at number 1 on the Billboard Mainstream Rock Tracks chart. Its inclusion in a major film soundtrack helped introduce the band to a new generation of listeners, further solidifying their place in rock history. By the time 'Big Gun' was released in 1993, AC/DC had firmly established themselves as rock giants following their commercial peak with 'Back in Black' in 1980. This single served as a lead-off track for the soundtrack to the Arnold Schwarzenegger film 'Last Action Hero,' showcasing the band's continued relevance in popular culture after decades of touring and recording.

How many songs are on Big Gun?

Big Gun has 3 tracks, running approximately 15 minutes.

Big Gun

AC/DC · 1993

15 min · 3 tracks · hard rock

A hard-hitting anthem wrapped in classic rock bravado, driven by powerful riffs and an unmistakable energy.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Big Gun — This title track encapsulates the band's signature sound with its explosive energy and catchy hooks, making it a perfect representation of AC/DC's enduring appeal.
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Back in Black (live in Moscow) — This live rendition showcases the band's electrifying performance style and serves as a reminder of their monumental success during the early '80s.
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For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) (live in Moscow) — This iconic anthem captures the spirit of camaraderie and celebration that defines AC/DC's live shows, reinforcing their legacy as one of rock's most formidable acts.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

A solid hard rock single with strong riffs, though the inclusion of live tracks affects its overall cohesion.

What we noticed

The title track 'Big Gun' features a driving rhythm with a consistent tempo and prominent guitar riffs throughout its duration.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Revived AC/DC's presence in the 90s, reaching number 1 on rock charts.
Themes: rock and roll resurgence· Moscow concert energy· post-Bon Scott revival
Career context: By the time 'Big Gun' was released in 1993, AC/DC had firmly established themselves as rock giants following their commercial peak with 'Back in Black' in 1980. This single served as a lead-off track for the soundtrack to the Arnold Schwarzenegger film 'Last Action Hero,' showcasing the band's continued relevance in popular culture after decades of touring and recording.
Stylistic neighbors: Led Zeppelin· Guns N' Roses· Aerosmith