Ballbreaker

Marking the return of original drummer Phil Rudd, 'Ballbreaker' sees AC/DC embracing a rawer, more stripped-down sound under the guidance of producer Rick Rubin. The album eschews the polish of their late '80s work in favor of a heavy, blues-inflected groove that emphasizes punchy, memorable riffs on tracks like 'Hard as a Rock' and 'Cover You in Oil'. It's a deliberate and successful return to the signature grit that defined their classic era.