What makes Flick of the Switch by AC/DC notable?

'Flick of the Switch' debuted at number 15 on the Billboard 200 and received mixed reviews from critics. While it didn’t achieve the commercial heights of its predecessors, it nevertheless influenced a generation of rock bands with its straightforward approach and high-octane sound. The album is often noted for its raw production style, which contributed to the band's trademark hard rock aesthetic. Released on August 15, 1983, 'Flick of the Switch' was AC/DC's ninth studio album and marked a return to their hard rock roots after the commercially inclined 'For Those About to Rock We Salute You'. This album came at a time when the band was solidifying their legacy following Bon Scott's death and Brian Johnson's successful entry as lead vocalist. It showcased their commitment to a more stripped-down sound, emphasizing powerful guitar work and energetic performances.

Who is Flick of the Switch for?

Flick of the Switch works well if you're into steady mid-tempo energy, raw riffs for road trips and sing-along anthems with friends.

How many songs are on Flick of the Switch?

Flick of the Switch has 10 tracks, running approximately 37 minutes.

Flick of the Switch

AC/DC · 1983

37 min · 10 tracks · hard rock · rock & roll · blues rock

Raw energy pulses through gritty riffs and thunderous drums, embodying classic rock's rebellious spirit.

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Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo energy
raw riffs for road trips
sing-along anthems with friends
rebellious spirit on repeat

Maybe skip if you want

prefer slow, introspective tracks
want highly varied song lengths

Where this album fits

Themes: rock and roll rebellion· post-Bon Scott legacy· blistering guitar riffs
Career context: Released on August 15, 1983, 'Flick of the Switch' was AC/DC's ninth studio album and marked a return to their hard rock roots after the commercially inclined 'For Those About to Rock We Salute You'. This album came at a time when the band was solidifying their legacy following Bon Scott's death and Brian Johnson's successful entry as lead vocalist. It showcased their commitment to a more stripped-down sound, emphasizing powerful guitar work and energetic performances.
Stylistic neighbors: Led Zeppelin· Guns N' Roses· Aerosmith
Sounds like this from elsewhere: Ace of Spades by Motörhead — Shares raw energy and rebellious spirit with driving riffs and relentless rhythms.

Appetite for Destruction by Guns N' Roses — Captures the same gritty rock and roll ethos with powerful guitar work and anthemic choruses.

Women and Children First by Van Halen — Combines blistering guitar riffs and energetic performances, echoing rock's rebellious vibe.