AC/DC's World-Premiere 'Rock or Bust' Listening Party Will Be Held in New York City Nov. 18

If you're ready to hear AC/DC's 15th studio album Rock or Bust and can't wait until its Dec. 2 release date, then head to New York City next week. The band will be premiering the album at a listening event a full two weeks ahead of its release at Webster Hall. Fans will be treated to all 11 tracks from the album as well as cocktails, prizes, and commemorative merchandise, Blabbermouth reports. The party will run from 7 to 9 p.m. on Nov. 18.

The Austrailian rock outfit released the video for the album's lead single, "Play Ball," at the beginning of the week, appearing in the clip without longtime guitarist Malcolm Young and drummer Phil Rudd.

Young is currently suffering from dementia, which ended his tenure with the band officially back in September. "Unfortunately, due to the nature of Malcolm's condition, he will not be returning to the band," a press release stated. "AC/DC will undertake a world tour in support of Rock or Bust in 2015. Stevie Young, nephew of founding members Angus Young and Malcolm Young, plays rhythm guitar on Rock or Bust and will accompany the band on tour."

Drummer Phil Rudd has been absent from the group recently as well, but for a very different reason. The percussionist was arrested earlier this month for allegedly trying to procure the services of a hit man. That charge was later dropped, but he still faces charges of threatening to kill and possession of illegal substances. The former charge comes with a maximum prison sentence of seven years.

"The charge alleging an attempt to procure murder should never have been laid," Rudd's lawyer said in a statement. "Mr. Rudd has suffered unnecessary and extremely damaging publicity as a result of widespread and sensational reporting of a very serious allegation, which on any basis was never justified. The damage to Mr. Rudd is incalculable."

Lead guitarist Angus Young recently recalled Rudd's erratic behavior in May when the band started recording Rock or Bust. "I've seen him in better shape. It was not the Phil we had known, after we had finished the last tour. He'd let himself go," he told Rolling Stone.

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AC/DC, Malcolm young, Angus young, Phil Rudd, Rock or Bust