Taking on AC/DC is one thing. Reclaiming their catalogue and flipping it into a full-throttle queer celebration is something else entirely. GAYC/DC arrive in Australia this February with a reputation that goes far beyond novelty, reframing one of rock’s most masculine songbooks into something bold, inclusive and genuinely electric.
Formed by Pansy Division bassist Christopher Freeman alongside drummer Brian Welch, the band has carved out rare territory in the tribute world. Rather than parody, GAYC/DC approach the music with deep respect, a quality that’s earned them praise from critics and rock royalty alike.
Kerrang! have described the band as “Glam/Sassy/Porn/Punk/Metal/Dirty Rock ‘n’ Roll… with class,” while Louder called their live shows “spot on with the music, unforgettable in every way.” The glitter, leather and knowing wink are all part of the show, but the songs remain front and centre.
Their reworked classics balance humour with reverence. “Dirty Deeds Done Dirt Cheap” becomes “Dirty Dudes (Done Dirt Cheap),” while “Gay Boy Boogie” turns AC/DC swagger into a joyful statement of queer visibility. The latter even earned the approval of Twisted Sister’s Dee Snider, who said “I think this is great!”
Brian Welch says the influence runs deep. “Twisted Sister took rock and drag further than anybody at the time. As young gay kids, seeing fully grown men in drag on MTV meant a lot to us, decades before RuPaul’s Drag Race was a thing.”
Musically, the band pulls no punches. Their take on “Highway to Hell” features appearances from Johnny Martin, John Bush and dUg Pinnick, underlining how seriously the project is taken within the rock world. As Broadway Rock put it, “While the band and their presentation may be campy, their musicianship is pure, unadulterated rock.”
For their first Australian tour, GAYC/DC will hit six cities, including a Melbourne show at Stay Gold on Saturday February 21. Whether you’re an AC/DC diehard or simply curious, this is a live show that makes its case loud and clear.
Tickets and information are available via tributetouring.com.
