Airbourne — Runnin' Wild

Detractors will immediately compare Aussie pub rockers Airbourne to their native land's biggest rock export AC/DC, and since Runnin' Wild is no Back In Black, the haters will declare both the band and their debut failures. But you have to hand it to Airbourne for not buckling under the pressure of living up to such standards. To say they shamelessly wear their influences on their sleeve would indeed be an understatement. But more than that, Airbourne put out an open challenge to the listener: "Yeah, we sound like AC/DC. So what? Fuck you! Try not singing and drinking along to this…" Chances are as soon as album opener "Stand Up For Rock 'N' Roll" kicks in, you'll be slathered in malt liquor screaming along "drinkin' beer/drinkin' wine/let's have a good time." "Too Much, Too Young, Too Fast" and the title track pretty much follow the same drinking theme, while "Girls And Black" and "Cheap Wine Cheaper Woman" combine a broader palate of booze with broads. Basically, if you're opposed to having fun, then stay away from Airbourne.