AC/DC says Malcolm Young will not be returning to the band

NEW YORK, Sept. 24 (UPI) -- Rock or Bust, AC/DC's first studio album in six years, is set for release Dec. 2, Columbia Records announced Wednesday.

The album was recorded last spring at Warehouse Studio in Vancouver. The band collaborated with producer Brendan O'Brien and mixer Mike Fraser on the project.

"Rock or Bust is the first AC/DC album in the band's 41-year history without founding member Malcolm Young on the recordings," the label said in a news release.

"Earlier this year, AC/DC released a statement explaining that due to illness, Malcolm would be taking a break from the band. Unfortunately, due to the nature of Malcolm's condition, he will not be returning to the band. AC/DC will undertake a world tour in support of Rock or Bust in 2015. Stevie Young, nephew of founding members Angus and Malcolm Young, plays rhythm guitar on Rock or Bust and will accompany the band on tour."

The nature of the 61-year-old musician's illness has not been publicly disclosed.