AC/DC - Powerage 12" Vinyl LP Album

( Canadian Release )

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.

 

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

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, a prominent figure in the world of graphic design and album cover art, is best known for his significant contributions as the director, graphic designer, and head of art for Atlantic Records. Born on April 13, 1946, Defrin's creative journey began in Brooklyn, New York, where he developed a passion for art from an early age.

Defrin's career in the music industry took off in the 1980s, a pivotal era for Heavy Metal music. His unique artistic vision and ability to capture the essence of a band's sound through visual imagery made him a sought-after figure among musicians and record labels. As a director and graphic designer at Atlantic Records, Defrin played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identities of numerous Heavy Metal bands during this period.

One of Defrin's notable accomplishments was his work on album covers. He understood the power of album artwork in conveying the spirit and energy of a band's music. Defrin's ability to translate the raw power and intensity of Heavy Metal into captivating visuals earned him widespread recognition and accolades. His designs often featured bold, eye-catching imagery, intricate details, and striking typography, perfectly complementing the music within.

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Defrin's portfolio boasts an impressive array of iconic album covers. Among his most renowned works are the covers for AC/DC's "Highway to Hell" (1979), "Back in Black" (1980), and "For Those About to Rock We Salute You" (1981). These covers captured the band's energy, attitude, and electrifying sound, becoming iconic symbols of Heavy Metal culture.

Additionally, Defrin's artistic contributions extended beyond AC/DC. He collaborated with numerous other influential bands, including Twisted Sister, Bon Jovi, Krokus, and Skid Row, among others. Each album cover he designed encapsulated the essence of the respective band's music, making a lasting impact on the visual landscape of Heavy Metal.

Bob Defrin's expertise in graphic design and his ability to understand and interpret the musical vision of Heavy Metal bands made him an invaluable asset to Atlantic Records. He left an indelible mark on the music industry, helping to shape the visual identities of some of the most influential Heavy Metal acts of the 1980s.

Beyond his work with Atlantic Records, Defrin's influence continued to resonate in the field of graphic design. His unique style and contributions left a lasting impression on album cover art, inspiring generations of designers to think creatively and push the boundaries of visual storytelling.

Bob Defrin's legacy as a director, graphic designer, and head of art for Atlantic Records endures as a testament to his immense talent and profound impact on the Heavy Metal genre. His ability to merge music and visual artistry has forever left an indelible mark on the history of album cover design.

Photography:

Jim Houghton - Photographer


Musicians:

Angus Young

Malcolm Young

Bon Scott

Phil Rudd

Cliff Williams

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 )
Photo Of The Back Cover AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release )
Photo of album back cover AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release )
Close up of the AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release ) record's label
Close up of the AC/DC - Powerage ( Canadian Release ) record's label
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