The Aussie giants this month reported that mainman Young was "taking a break" from the band as a result of an unconfirmed problem - but his colleagues intended to start studio work on a prospective new album in May.

Slade, who spent five years with AC/DC from 1989, tells Rhythm: "It's terrible to hear about Malcolm. I knew he was ill. He's been ill for a long time, but I think it's come to a head by the sounds of things.