AC/DC - Powerage 12" Vinyl LP Album

- It's Canadian Release

AC/DC Powerage album cover featuring a man with a shocked expression, glowing outline, and colorful electrical wires emerging from his hands, with the AC/DC logo and vibrant Powerage text on a dark background.

AC/DC's "Powerage Canada," a fifth studio album released in May 1978, remains a potent emblem of late '70s hard rock. Crafted by Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott, the album encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the era. Recorded at Sydney's Albert Studios, its production strikes a balance between live energy and studio finesse. The Canadian release adds a unique regional dimension, highlighting AC/DC's global influence and the album's timeless impact.

Essential Album Information For: AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release )

"Powerage" Album Description:

In the world of rock history, AC/DC's "Powerage Canada" stands as a formidable testament to the band's unwavering commitment to their distinctive hard rock sound. Released in May 1978, this 12" Vinyl LP Album marked the Australian powerhouse's fifth studio effort and fourth international release. A closer examination of the album reveals not only its musical prowess but also its significant contributions within the broader context of the late 1970s rock scene.

The album, like a sonic time capsule, encapsulates the spirit of the era, where the rebellious attitude of rock music collided with the socio-political landscape of the time. The late '70s were marked by a palpable tension, with economic uncertainties, political upheavals, and a shifting cultural landscape providing the backdrop to the music of the day. In this context, "Powerage Canada" emerged as a sonic force, delivering an electrifying soundtrack that resonated with the zeitgeist.

The songwriting trio of Angus Young, Malcolm Young, and Bon Scott, credited with crafting all the tracks on the album, showcased their musical prowess and lyrical finesse. The album opens with the thunderous "Rock 'n' Roll Damnation," setting the tone for an audacious sonic journey that spans the entire LP. The raw energy of tracks like "Down Payment Blues" and "Riff Raff" not only exemplifies the band's signature sound but also captures the rebellious spirit of the time.

Production-wise, "Powerage Canada" stands as a testament to AC/DC's evolving studio mastery. The album was recorded at Albert Studios in Sydney, Australia, and produced by Harry Vanda and George Young. The production values reflect a balance between the raw, unbridled energy of the band's live performances and the refined craftsmanship required for studio recording. This delicate equilibrium contributes to the album's enduring appeal, making it a classic in the AC/DC discography.

The Canadian release of "Powerage" adds an interesting dimension to the album's narrative. The international success of AC/DC was propelled by their ability to connect with audiences across the globe, transcending geographical boundaries. The Canadian release, with its unique nuances and regional impact, underscores the band's global influence and the album's resonance within the Canadian rock scene of the late '70s.

Music Genre:

Hard Rock ( And Roll )

Label & Catalognr:

 Atlantic KSD 19180

Media Format:

Record Format: 12" Vinyl Stereo Gramophone Record
Total Album (Cover+Record) weight: 230 gram  

Year & Country:

1978 Canada

AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release ) Production & Recording Information

Producers:

Vanda and Young - Producers

Sound & Recording Engineers:

Mark Opitz - Sound Engineer

Recording Location:

This album was recorded at: Albert Studios, Sydney, Australia, February-March 1978

Album Cover Design & Artwork:

Bob Defrin - Art Director

Bob Defrin invites you to explore his legacy of iconic album artwork — visit his webpage now!

Photography:

Jim Houghton - Photographer

Musicians:
  • Bon Scott - Vocals

    Bon Scott, the legendary vocalist of AC/DC, fronted the iconic hard rock band from 1974 until his untimely death in 1980. Known for his raw, powerful voice and electrifying stage presence, he played a key role in shaping AC/DC’s sound on classic albums like High Voltage, Highway to Hell, and Let There Be Rock. Scott’s gritty lyrics and unforgettable charisma made him a rock icon.

  • Angus Young - Guitar

    Angus Young, the lead guitarist and co-founder of AC/DC, has been the driving force behind the band’s legendary sound since their inception in 1973. Renowned for his high-energy performances, schoolboy outfit, and blistering guitar solos, Young’s riff-driven style powered classic albums like Back in Black and Highway to Hell. His iconic stage presence and unmatched talent make him a rock legend.

  • Malcolm Young - Guitar

    Malcolm Young, the rhythm guitarist and co-founder of AC/DC, was the backbone of the band’s iconic sound from 1973 until his retirement in 2014. Known for his tight, powerful riffs and impeccable timing, Malcolm’s rhythm work laid the foundation for classics like Highway to Hell and Back in Black. His understated genius and relentless drive cemented AC/DC’s place in rock history.

  • Cliff Williams - Bass

    Cliff Williams, AC/DC’s bassist from 1977 until his retirement in 2016 (and briefly returning in 2020), provided the steady, hard-hitting backbone of the band’s sound. Renowned for his solid, no-frills playing, Williams’ basslines powered iconic albums like Back in Black and Highway to Hell. His unwavering rhythm and stage presence made him an integral part of AC/DC’s legendary legacy.

  • Phil Rudd - Drums

    Phil Rudd, AC/DC’s drummer during key periods from 1975 to 1983 and 1994 to 2015, delivered the band’s signature driving beats with precision and power. Known for his steady, unrelenting drumming style, Rudd’s rhythms anchored classics like Highway to Hell and Back in Black. His minimalist yet impactful approach made him a vital force in AC/DC’s legendary sound.

Tracklisting Side One:
  1. Rock 'n' Roll Damnation
  2. Gimme a Bullet
  3. Down Payment Blues
  4. Gone Shootin'
  5. Riff Raff
Tracklisting Side Two:
  1. Sin City
  2. Up to my Neck in You
  3. What's Next to the Moon
  4. Kicked in the Teeth

AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release ) High Resolution & Quality Photos

Front Cover Photo Of AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release )
Front Cover Photo Of AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release )

The album front cover features AC/DC’s “Powerage”, released in 1978. The design is both striking and electrifying, capturing the high-voltage energy of the band’s music. It prominently shows a figure (modeled after Bon Scott) with a dramatic expression, suggesting shock or power surging through him. His hands appear to emit colorful electrical wires, symbolizing raw electricity and power.

The AC/DC logo is displayed at the top left in their signature lightning bolt-styled font, while the album title, “Powerage”, is written in vibrant, slanted typography, with each letter in a different color—yellow, red, and orange—reflecting the chaotic, high-energy vibe of the album.

The dark background contrasts sharply with the glowing outline around the figure, emphasizing the electrifying theme. The Atlantic Records logo is subtly positioned at the bottom right corner. The overall design reflects the rebellious and raw rock essence of AC/DC during this era.

Photo Of The Back Cover AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release )
AC/DC Powerage album back cover featuring a group photo of the band members with Angus Young in his schoolboy outfit at the front, smiling energetically, and the rest of the band standing behind him against a vibrant yellow-orange background with production credits on the right

The back cover of AC/DC’s “Powerage” album features a vibrant yellow-orange background that gives a warm, electric glow. The band members—Angus Young, Malcolm Young, Bon Scott, Phil Rudd, and Cliff Williams—are prominently positioned. Angus Young, dressed in his iconic schoolboy outfit, stands front and center with a wild grin and energetic posture, capturing the raw attitude of the band.

The rest of the members stand behind Angus, each with relaxed yet confident expressions. Bon Scott has a mischievous smirk, while Malcolm, Phil, and Cliff maintain a more subdued demeanor, reflecting their roles in driving the band’s tight rhythm.

The production credits and album information are neatly placed on the right-hand side in white text. These include the names of producers George Young and Harry Vanda, recording details at Albert Studios in Sydney, and Atlantic Records branding. The bottom section provides additional production and management credits. The overall design reflects the unpolished, high-energy rock ‘n’ roll spirit of AC/DC during this period.

Close up of the AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release ) record's label
with green, white, and red horizontal sections, the text AC/DC Powerage, catalog number KSD 19180, and manufacturing details by WEA Music of Canada

This record label for AC/DC’s “Powerage” album features the iconic Atlantic Records design. The label is divided into three horizontal sections: a green top, a white middle band, and a red bottom. The Atlantic Records logo is prominently displayed at the top, featuring bold colors of red, green, black, and white, alongside the distinctive spiral emblem.

Below the logo, the album’s catalog number (KSD 19180), side indicator (ONE), and the band name (AC/DC) with the album title (Powerage) are neatly printed in bold black text. The word STEREO appears prominently on the left side of the white band. The label also includes manufacturing and distribution details along the outer rim, crediting WEA Music of Canada, Ltd. and noting the copyright as 1978 J. Albert & Son (Pty) Ltd.

The text layout is clean and professional, with all compositions attributed to the band’s core members (Young, Young, and Scott). The label’s vibrant colors and clear branding maintain Atlantic Records’ distinctive and classic style.

Index of AC/DC Vinyl Album Discography and Album Cover Gallery
AC/DC - 3 Record Set Atlantic 60149 12" Vinyl 3LP
AC/DC - 3 Record Set Atlantic 60149 album front cover vinyl record

 ATLANTIC 60149 , Germany

AC/DC's 3 LP Record Box Set, cataloged as ATLANTIC 60149, encapsulates the band's formidable presence in the late 1970s rock scene. Featuring three iconic albums

Learn more
AC/DC - Baby Please Don't Go b/w Jail Break 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Baby Please Don't Go b/w Jail Break album front cover vinyl record

Atlantic PRO 171 , 1976

AC/DC's "Baby Please Don't Go / Jailbreak" 7" vinyl is a musical masterpiece, blending blues and rock seamlessly. Released during a pivotal period

Learn more
AC/DC - Back in Black (1980 Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Back in Black (1980 Germany) album front cover vinyl record

Atlantic ATL 50735 , 1980 , Germany

"Back in Black" is the first album with "Brian Johnson" as lead-singer. All songs written by Young, Young and Johnson.

Learn more
AC/DC - Blow Up Your Video 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Blow Up Your Video album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic 781 828 , 1988 , Germany

This album showcases AC/DC's raw power and enduring legacy. A testament to the band's resilience, it remains a must-have for vinyl enthusiasts, blending timeless rock with a contemporary edge

Learn more
AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Dutch, German and Italian Releases) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Italian and Dutch Releases) album front cover vinyl record

Initially recorded in 1975, its unique cover art and rarity contribute to its mystique. The vinyl's delayed global debut intensified its appeal, making it a cherished piece in rock histor

AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Germany) AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Holland) AC/DC - Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap (Italy)
AC/DC - Flick of the Switch 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Flick of the Switch album front cover vinyl record

  Atlantic 78-0100-1 , 1983 , Netherlands

"Flick of the Switch" stands out as a raw and powerful collection of tracks that capture the essence of the band's signature sound. Released as a 12" vinyl LP album, the record showcases AC/DC at their peak

Learn more
AC/DC - Fly On The Wall 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Fly On The Wall album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic 781 263 , 1985 , EEC

Recorded in Switzerland, the self-produced album explores a voyeuristic concept, portraying life through ten tracks.

Learn more
AC/DC - For Those About to Rock (German & USA) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - For Those About to Rock (German & USA) album front cover vinyl record

The 1981 album, a successor to "Back in Black," showcased AC/DC's signature power. The 12" vinyl format enhanced the sonic experience, complemented by iconic cover artwork.

For Those About To Rock We Salute You ( 1981 Germany ) For Those About to Rock ( 1981 USA )
AC/DC - For Those About To Rock (1981 Holland) 12" Vinyl Maxi-Single
AC/DC - For Those About To Rock (1981 Holland) album front cover vinyl record

  Atlantic ATL 20276 , 1981 , Holland

The classic "Let There Be Rock" showcased AC/DC's raw energy. Lange's meticulous production added depth, contributing to the record's enduring appeal. This Maxi-Single symbolized the unyielding spirit of hard rock

Learn more
AC/DC - High Voltage Genuine Australian Release 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - High Voltage Genuine Australian Release album front cover vinyl record

 Albert Productions APLP-009 YAPAY1177 , 1975 , Australia

The authentic Australian release of AC/DC's "High Voltage" 12" Vinyl LP showcases the band's debut studio album, a seminal work in hard rock. Originally released in February 1975,

Learn more
AC/DC - High Voltage (1976 Belgium) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - High Voltage (1976 Belgium) album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic ATL 50 527 , 1976 , Belgium

AC/DC's debut studio album, "High Voltage," released in February 1975, revolutionized rock with its raw energy and iconic tracks. The Belgium Import 12" Vinyl LP edition adds collectible allure

Learn more
AC/DC - Highway to Hell (1979 Germany) 12" Vinyl LP
AC/DC - Highway to Hell (1979 Germany) album front cover vinyl record

 Atlantic Records ATL 50 628 , 1979 , Germany

Angus Young shreds electrifying riffs on a speeding highway to hell! AC/DC's iconic "Highway to Hell" cover blazes with rock & roll rebellion. Buckle up for high-voltage anthems! (199 characters)

Learn more
AC/DC - If You Want Blood You've Got It (Europe & Germany) 12" LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - If You Want Blood You've Got It ( Europe & Germany) album front cover

"If You Want Blood You've Got It" is the first live album by Australian hard rock band AC/DC, originally released in the US on 21 November 1978. All songs were written by Angus Young, Malcolm Young and Bon Scott.

If You Want Blood You've Got It ( Europe ) If You Want Blood You've Got It (Germany)
AC/DC - Let There Be Rock (Canadian and German Issues) 12" LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Let There Be Rock (Canadian and German Issues) album front cover

"Let There Be Rock" is a hard-hitting masterpiece that defined the band's electrifying sound. With thunderous riffs, Angus Young's blistering guitar solos, and Bon Scott's gritty vocals

AC/DC - Let There Be Rock ( 1977 Canada ) AC/DC - Let There Be Rock ( Germany )
AC/DC - Live Special Collector's Edition 12" 2LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Live Special Collector's Edition album front cover

 ATCO 7567-92212, , 1992 , Germany

The gatefold album cover features an unexpected twist, showcasing a playful image of Miss Piggy in a stylish outfit. This unconventional addition adds a touch of humor to the iconic rock band's live music collection

Learn more
AC/DC - PowerAge (Canadian and German Releases)
Thumbnail of AC/DC - PowerAge (Canadian and German Releases) album front cover

The album PowerAge encapsulates the rebellious spirit of the era. Recorded at Sydney's Albert Studios, its production strikes a balance between live energy and studio finesse.

AC/DC - Powerage (Canada Release) AC/DC - Powerage (German Release)
AC/DC - The Razors Edge (1990, EEC Europe) 12" LP
Thumbnail of AC/DC - The Razors Edge (1990, EEC Eurpe) . album front cover

ATCO 7567 91413 , 1990 , EEC

"The Razor's Edge" with Iconic tracks like "Thunderstruck" and "Moneytalks" became classics, while ATCO Records' role in production ensured global success.

Learn more
AC/DC - Who Made Who (Two International Versions)
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Who Made Who (Two International Versions) album front cover

"Who Made Who" known for its role in Stephen King's Maximum Overdrive, epitomizes the vibrant '80s rock scene. This collector's item reflects the synergy between music and film during the era.

Who Made Who (Canada Release) Who Made Who (European Release)
AC/DC - Who Made Who 7" Single
Thumbnail of AC/DC - Who Made Who album front cover

Released in 1986, it served as the soundtrack to the movie "Maximum Overdrive." The title track, along with "D.T." and "Chase the Ace," delivers a high-voltage dose of AC/DC's signature rock sound.

Learn more