Malcolm Young Retires From AC/DC

Veteran Australian rock outfit AC/DC have revealed that founding member Malcolm Young will not be returning to the band despite their long-held hopes to the contrary.

Young has been hospitalised for the past few months for an unspecified ailment, but the band had previously expressed that they had their "fingers crossed" he would indeed be able to return to the fold in time to celebrate the release of their forthcoming 15th studio full-length, Rock Or Bust.

The album, the first in the band's four-decade history to not feature Young, is due for release on December 2. The band revealed both the album's release date and that Young would not be returning in a statement posted to their website.

"Earlier this year, AC/DC released a statement explaining that due to illness, Malcolm would be taking a break from the band," the new statement explained. "Unfortunately, due to the nature of Malcolm's condition, he will not be returning to the band."

News of Young's illness first broke in April, as rumours of a split encircled the band. The statement goes on to confirm earlier assertions from drummer Phil Rudd that there would indeed be a tour in support of Rock Or Bust — specifically, a world tour next year. Angus and Malcolm Young's nephew, Stevie, will fill in for his ailing uncle on rhythm guitar (a role he also filled for the album's recording process).

You'll have to wait till December to be able to enjoy the new goods in full, so get some classic riffage into you instead and stomp along in salute to the retired Young brother.