Yes, this really is what it sounds like, it is an album full of acoustic versions of AC/DC classics. But, easily the worst thing about this album is the artwork, and once you get past that this is a little gem. A few acoustic guitars, a gentle bass and inobtrusive drums, McFadden’s soulful vocals (sometimes accompanied by a bluesy female) and that is all that is needed to turn some pumping metallic monsters into something very different indeed. “Have A Drink On Me” becomes a Twenties jazz masterclass, while “Girls Got Rhythm” is a filthy blues. “Touch Too Much” sounds emotional and poignant with great fiddle, a bar room ballad – this was the single in the UK charts when Bon passed away, and I can never hear this song without thinking of him all the time. It is obvious that McFadden is not only a master of his craft (he has spent many years treading the boards with the likes of George Clinton and Eric Burdon after all), but has a real love of AC/DC and while turning these into something new and different, has also stayed true to the originals in many ways.

Not all of the numbers work as well as others, but overall this is an interesting project, and any AC/DC fan will surely enjoy hearing “Whole Lotta Rosie” turned into a blues slide masterclass. This album honestly is much better than is suggested by the cover!

Rating: 7/10

Links:
https://www.ericmcfadden.com/
https://badreputation.fr/en_GB