Few EP releases are as strong as AC/DC's '74 Jailbreak. In many respects, one could call this release a mini-greatest hits had it not been for the fact that the included songs were largely unavailable to music lovers outside of Australia. Released in 1984, US audiences were able, for the first time, to conveniently hear five exceptional tracks that were never released in their region during the 70s. While it is difficult to comprehend a fan's joy upon first hearing this release, one only has to spin the record and turn the volume up to hear just how polished AC/DC was in those early years. It is an experience that must be heard to be believed.
Without a B-side to be found, '74 Jailbreak is one of the greatest AC/DC releases and should be in every fan's collection. Yes, the EP is short but that isn't necessarily a bad thing, especially if you opt to listen via CD or streaming services. From my experience, the Apple Digital Master, available via Apple Music, is the gold standard when it comes to streaming and while TIDAL Hi-Fi delivers the CD-quality counterpart, from the same mastering sessions, the TIDAL Hi-Fi version isn’t any better than the edition presented on Apple Music and subsequently, in this case, I prefer the Apple Music edition as it takes up less storage when using offline play as well as being more accomodating for those of us with restrictive cellular data allowances. That said, you can rest assured that regardless of how you choose to stream ’74 Jailbreak, you’ll be hearing the very best sound that streaming has to offer.
When at home, however, I’m fortunate enough to own the 2003 vinyl reissue and to say it’s spectacular is an understatement. Vinyl rarely sounds better than this, although I don't feel that way about all the AC/DC reissues from 2003 as the inner-groove distortion on the Back In Black reissue is infuriating. Nevertheless, '74 Jailbreak has an incredible soundstage with a perfect mix that ensures the bass and drum beats remain prominent, but never overpowering. Similarly, Bon Scott's vocals have never sounded better and each percussive element is crystal clear. If you’re a vinyl fan, this is one record you should add to your wish list, and your collection, as I know you won’t be disappointed.
Side One
Jailbreak may not be the first song fans gravitate towards but it’s an exceptional song that has been featured in AC/DC’s live performances for decades; even if it does appear a little self-indulgent when performed live. This studio recording, however, is the perfect opener for ’74 Jailbreak as it sets the tone for what is to come and never disappoints.
You Ain't Got A Hold On Me has an incredible rhythm, although, I’ve always thought that Scott's vocal sounds a little too thin and forward in the mix. Interestingly, you may notice when listening to Brian Johnson-era recordings, by comparison, his vocals were always mixed in a more central position in relation to the music, whereas Scott's tend to stand out in the mix. It is a minor difference, but a noticeable anomaly.
Show Business is blues-rock 101. I love it!
Side Two
Soul Stripper is a layered and complex wonderland that presents listeners with a massive soundstage. The entrance, albeit lengthy, never gets dull and Scott's vocal entry and presence in the song is nothing short of perfection.
Baby, Please Don't Go is an incredible cover that I’ve always enjoyed. Is it the best version, however? Well, that is, of course, subjective but I can only reiterate that the Aerosmith rendition is just as good and that if you want the purist recording of this song, you should check out Big Joe Williams' 1935 recording. Nevertheless, Baby, Please Don’t Go is the perfect way to close the EP, extraordinary!
From start to finish, '74 Jailbreak is an exceptional collection of blues-based rock and roll songs that are timeless and will remain part of the social consciousness for generations to come.
