Is Power Up a good place to start with AC/DC?

Yes, Power Up is recommended as a starting point for new AC/DC listeners. Thunderous riffs and electrifying solos propel a classic rock sound that feels both familiar and revitalized. Released on November 13, 2020, 'Power Up' is AC/DC's first studio album since the death of co-founder Malcolm Young in 2017. This album marks their return following a hiatus, showcasing the band’s resilience and ability to deliver high-octane rock music amidst personal loss.

Power Up works well if you're into steady mid-tempo energy throughout, an anthemic sing-along experience and for energizing road trips.

How many songs are on Power Up?

Power Up has 12 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Power Up

AC/DC · 2020

41 min · 12 tracks · hard rock

Thunderous riffs and electrifying solos propel a classic rock sound that feels both familiar and revitalized.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Realize Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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Shot in the Dark — This track encapsulates the album’s spirit with its catchy hooks and high-energy guitar riffs, reminiscent of AC/DC's classic anthems.
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Through the Mists of Time — A reflective piece that pays homage to past experiences, showcasing lyrical depth while maintaining the hard-hitting sound fans expect.
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Demon Fire — With its aggressive tempo and powerful vocals, this track embodies the raw energy that defines AC/DC, making it a standout anthem.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

AC/DC's 'Power Up' delivers classic hard rock energy with strong riffs and solid craftsmanship, though it doesn't break new ground.

What we noticed

The album opens with a high-energy track and maintains a consistent tempo throughout, rarely dipping below mid-tempo.
Each song features prominent guitar riffs and solos, often layered with harmonized vocals that echo the band's classic sound.
The last three tracks shift slightly in tone, introducing more melodic elements while still retaining the hard rock edge.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo energy throughout
an anthemic sing-along experience
for energizing road trips
consistent riffs that invigorate
inviting camaraderie in group settings

Maybe skip if you

seekers of experimental soundscapes
prefer slow, introspective music

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks a strong return after a hiatus, showcasing continued vitality in their classic sound.
Themes: nostalgic rock anthems· Malcolm Young tribute· thunderous riffs· post-pandemic revival
Career context: Released on November 13, 2020, 'Power Up' is AC/DC's first studio album since the death of co-founder Malcolm Young in 2017. This album marks their return following a hiatus, showcasing the band’s resilience and ability to deliver high-octane rock music amidst personal loss.
Stylistic neighbors: Led Zeppelin· Guns N' Roses· Aerosmith