AC/DC – Stiff Upper Lip (2000): Album Review, Tracklist & Fun Facts
Released in February 2000, Stiff Upper Lip is the sixteenth studio album by Australian hard rock legends AC/DC. Produced by George Young, the album marked a return to the band’s raw, bluesy hard rock roots after the polished sound of Ballbreaker (1995).
Stiff Upper Lip is characterized by gritty guitar riffs, solid rhythms, and Brian Johnson’s powerhouse vocals, making it a fan favorite for its straightforward rock ‘n’ roll energy. The album emphasizes AC/DC’s signature no-frills, riff-driven sound, blending classic elements with a modern production style.
Album Overview
With 12 tracks of high-voltage rock, Stiff Upper Lip delivers both anthemic stadium-ready songs and blues-infused hard rock grooves. The album is often praised for its tight musicianship, memorable riffs, and cohesive production, emphasizing AC/DC’s enduring rock ‘n’ roll attitude.
Standout tracks like Stiff Upper Lip, Safe in New York City, and Satellite Blues capture the raw energy and swagger the band is known for, while maintaining accessibility for both new listeners and longtime fans.
Tracklist – AC/DC: Stiff Upper Lip (2000)
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Stiff Upper Lip
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Meltdown
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House of Jazz
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Hold Me Back
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Safe in New York City
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Can't Stop Rock 'n' Roll
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Satellite Blues
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Damned
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Come and Get It
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All Screwed Up
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Give It Away
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R.I.P. (Rock in Peace)
Album Review
The album opens with the title track “Stiff Upper Lip,” featuring a catchy riff and driving rhythm that immediately sets a high-energy tone. “Safe in New York City” delivers tongue-in-cheek lyrics with classic AC/DC riffs, while “Satellite Blues” adds a bluesy groove to the mix.
Tracks like “Meltdown” and “Damned” highlight Angus Young’s signature guitar solos and the tight rhythm section of Malcolm Young and Cliff Williams, providing the band’s trademark punch. “Hold Me Back” and “Come and Get It” are stadium-ready rockers, perfect for live performances.
Overall, Stiff Upper Lip is a return to AC/DC’s roots, focusing on raw riffs, tight arrangements, and hard rock swagger. While not a commercial juggernaut like The Razor’s Edge, it remains a solid entry in the band’s discography and a favorite among fans of classic AC/DC rock.
Fun Facts, Trivia & Did You Know
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• Fun Fact: Stiff Upper Lip was produced by George Young, older brother of Angus and Malcolm, who had helped shape AC/DC’s early sound.
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• Trivia: The album was recorded in the Bahamas, giving it a relaxed, focused atmosphere.
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• Did You Know? The track Safe in New York City features tongue-in-cheek lyrics commenting on urban life and security.
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• Fun Fact: The album cover features a bronze statue of a bulldog, symbolizing toughness and resilience, in line with the album’s title.
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• Did You Know? Stiff Upper Lip reached #7 on the UK Albums Chart and #13 on the US Billboard 200, proving AC/DC’s continued global popularity.
Stiff Upper Lip (2000) is a gritty, high-voltage hard rock album that blends bluesy grooves with stadium-ready riffs. It’s a must-listen for fans who appreciate AC/DC’s classic, riff-driven rock sound in the modern era.
