When Steel Meets Blood | Night Of The Long Knives | AC/DC

AC/DC's "Night of the Long Knives" is a song that tells the story of a tumultuous period in British history. The track, which appears on their 1980 album "Back in Black", is inspired by the brutal power struggle between the Cavaliers and Roundheads during the English Civil War.

The song's lyrics paint a vivid picture of chaos and bloodshed as the two factions clash in a bid for control. The "Night of the Long Knives" refers to the infamous event where Oliver Cromwell, leader of the Parliamentarian forces, ordered the execution of many high-ranking Royalist officers, marking a turning point in the war.

The song's lyrics are characterized by their dark and ominous tone, with Angus Young's guitar work and Brian Johnson's distinctive vocals conjuring up images of carnage and destruction. The music is driving and aggressive, reflecting the intense emotions and violence depicted in the lyrics.

Despite its historical inspiration, "Night of the Long Knives" is not a straightforward retelling of events. Rather, it uses the backdrop of war to explore themes of power, betrayal, and the cyclical nature of violence. As such, the song remains relevant today, serving as a cautionary tale about the devastating consequences of unchecked ambition.

Throughout the song, AC/DC's trademark hard rock sound is on full display, with Young's scorching guitar solos and Johnson's powerful vocals combining to create a sense of tension and release. The result is a track that is both historically informed and musically thrilling, making "Night of the Long Knives" one of the standout tracks in AC/DC's impressive discography.