Back in April, things did not look promising for AC/DC. News had spread that Malcolm Young, founding member and rhythm guitarist for the legendary rock band, was taking a break due to ill health. However, lead singer Brian Johnson insisted that AC/DC was not finished and that the band would continue to make music.

“We are definitely getting together in May in Vancouver. We’re going to pick up some guitars, have a plonk, and see if anybody has got any tunes or ideas.” Johnson said three months ago after news broke of Young’s illness. “If anything happens, we’ll record it.”

Looks like something happened. The frontman, who was in his hometown of Newcastle to pick up his Doctorate Degree in music from Northumbria University, said that the band’s next album is already finished after several recording sessions in Vancouver. “It was brilliant over there. We’re done. I’m very excited and we’ve got some great songs.”

Johnson was clearly fired up about the music but somber about Malcolm’s absence from the sessions, “We miss Malcolm obviously. He’s a fighter. He’s in hospital but he’s a fighter. We’ve got our fingers crossed that he’ll get strong again.” He added, “Stevie, Malcolm’s nephew, was magnificent, but when you’re recording with this thing hanging over you and your work mate isn’t well, it’s difficult. But I’m sure he was rooting for us. He’s such a strong man. He’s a small guy but he’s very strong. He’s proud and he’s very private so we can’t say too much. But fingers crossed he’ll be back.”

The title of the band’s 15th studio album has yet to be determined. Johnson said that they considered Man Down, in honor of Malcolm, but then they had second thoughts because of the negativity that the name would imply.

Fans can expect to see the album either this year or early 2015.

Image via Wikimedia Commons