AC/DC – Ballbreaker (1995): Album Review, Tracklist & Fun Facts
Released in September 1995, Ballbreaker is the fifteenth studio album by Australian hard rock legends AC/DC. Produced by Rick Rubin, the album marked the band’s return to their raw, hard-hitting rock roots after a decade of evolving production styles.
Ballbreaker is notable for reuniting AC/DC with drummer Phil Rudd, who returned to the lineup after several years away, giving the album a tight, punchy rhythm foundation. The album combines classic riffs, driving grooves, and Brian Johnson’s signature vocals, making it a favorite among long-time fans.
Album Overview
With ten tracks of high-voltage rock, Ballbreaker emphasizes powerful riffs, stadium-ready anthems, and straightforward hard rock energy. Lyrically, the album focuses on rebellion, partying, and rock ‘n’ roll swagger, themes synonymous with AC/DC’s enduring style.
Tracks like Hard as a Rock, Hail Caesar, and Ballbreaker exemplify the band’s ability to create immediate, riff-driven hits, while slower tracks like The Furor provide dynamic contrast and showcase the band’s versatility.
Tracklist – AC/DC: Ballbreaker (1995)
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Hard as a Rock
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Cover You in Oil
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The Furor
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Boogie Man
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Ballbreaker
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Hail Caesar
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Love Bomb
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Catches You Cryin'
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Burnin' Alive
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Whiskey on the Rocks
Album Review
The album opens with “Hard as a Rock,” a hard-hitting anthem driven by Angus Young’s blistering riffs and Brian Johnson’s commanding vocals. “Ballbreaker” continues the momentum with punchy guitars and a catchy chorus, embodying the classic AC/DC swagger.
“Hail Caesar” and “Boogie Man” showcase the band’s knack for creating arena-ready tracks that are both fun and hard-hitting. The album’s slower moments, such as “The Furor”, allow listeners to appreciate the band’s musical precision and dynamic range.
Overall, Ballbreaker is a return to form, blending classic AC/DC elements with modern production. While it may not have reached the commercial heights of The Razor’s Edge, it remains a fan-favorite for its raw energy and memorable riffs.
Fun Facts, Trivia & Did You Know
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• Fun Fact: Ballbreaker marked the return of drummer Phil Rudd, restoring the classic AC/DC rhythm section.
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• Trivia: The album was produced by Rick Rubin, who also worked with artists like Red Hot Chili Peppers and Slayer.
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• Did You Know? Hard as a Rock became a staple in AC/DC’s live shows, often opening their concerts in the late 1990s.
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• Fun Fact: The album cover features a breaking wall effect, symbolizing the explosive energy of the music.
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• Did You Know? Ballbreaker reached #7 on the US Billboard 200 and #2 in the UK Albums Chart, proving AC/DC’s continued global appeal.
Ballbreaker (1995) is a high-voltage hard rock album that combines classic AC/DC riffs, punchy rhythms, and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals. It’s a return to the band’s raw energy, making it a must-listen for fans of traditional hard rock.
