Phil Rudd performs live, featuring AC/DC hits accompanied by a symphony orchestra
In a thrilling display of rock and classical fusion, former AC/DC drummer Phil Rudd took centre stage at the sold-out Spark Arena in Auckland, New Zealand, on July 26, 2025. The event was a special appearance with the Full Metal Orchestra, a 29-piece classical orchestra combined with some of the best musicians from the New Zealand rock and metal scene.
The night was a memorable one, with Rudd playing drums on several AC/DC classics such as "Thunderstruck," "Back In Black," and "It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Want to Rock 'N' Roll)." The latter, a fan favourite, hasn't been performed live by AC/DC since 1979. Rudd also performed his solo track "Head Job" and joined the grand finale, which included traditional bagpipes.
The lineup of musicians at the show was impressive, featuring Shihad frontman Jon Toogood, Devilskin singer Jennie Skulander, and EJ Barnes, the daughter of Aussie legend Jimmy Barnes. Guitarist Brett Adams, who also works with country star Tami Neilson, former Crowded House man Tim Finn, and various other Kiwi music artists, described Rudd as a quietly spoken, pleasant guy with a dry sense of humour.
During the performance, Rudd was reportedly in high spirits, giving pointers to the band and even suggesting, "drink a bottle of whiskey and get into a street fight!" However, the night was all about the music, and the audience was treated to an unforgettable performance.
As for upcoming shows or additional tour dates for the Full Metal Orchestra with Phil Rudd, there are no available listings or announcements beyond the Auckland performance. The event was a one-off, but fans are hopeful for a return in the future.
For Brett Adams, playing with the Full Metal Orchestra and being close to Phil Rudd was a surreal experience. He described it as being close to the unmistakable powerful groove from albums like Highway To Hell, For Those About To Rock, and Back In Black. The night ended on a high note, with Phil Rudd winking at Brett Adams during the performance and giving him positive feedback, saying, "Good, Brett!"
The Full Metal Orchestra's repertoire includes songs by Metallica, Iron Maiden, Led Zeppelin, Mötorhead, Tool, and more. While it's not yet confirmed if the Auckland show with Phil Rudd was a one-off event or if they will return in the future, one thing is certain—the Full Metal Orchestra continues to push the boundaries of rock and classical music.
- The Full Metal Orchestra's lineup boasted a variety of accomplished musicians, such as Jon Toogood, Jennie Skulander, EJ Barnes, and Brett Adams.
- Rudd, in a high-spirited mood, provided advice to the band during the performance, suggesting they indulge in a bottle of whiskey and engage in a street fight.
- In addition to AC/DC classics, Rudd performed his solo track "Head Job" and played in the grand finale, which featured traditional bagpipes.
- For Brett Adams, playing with the Full Metal Orchestra and being in the presence of Phil Rudd was a dream come true, reminiscent of the powerful groove from iconic albums like Highway To Hell and Back In Black.
- Shihad's frontman, Toogood, Devilskin's singer, Skulander, and several other well-known Kiwi musicians contributed to the impressive roster of musicians at the show.
- The event was a fusion of rock and classical music, featuring a 29-piece classical orchestra and an array of talented rock and metal musicians from the New Zealand scene.
- Phil Rudd's performance was one for the ages, electrifying the fans with renditions of AC/DC's "Thunderstruck," "Back In Black," and "It’s a Long Way to the Top (If You Want to Rock 'N' Roll)," including the latter, which hasn't been performed live by AC/DC since 1979.
- The Full Metal Orchestra repertoire includes songs by metal heavyweights like Metallica, Iron Maiden, and more, as well as classic rock bands such as Led Zeppelin and Mötorhead.
