AC/DC's made their new album announcement a couple days ago, but it came with some heavy news, too: Co-founding guitarist Malcolm Young would no longer be recording or performing with the band thanks to an unnamed condition.
Now, the Sydney Morning Herald reports that Young is suffering from dementia.
The rocker is reportedly at Lulworth House in Elizabeth Bay, Australia. SMH points out its the same facility that currently houses Australian politician Gough Whitlam and used to house the late Premier Neville Wran, who was afflicted with dementia in his final years.
A source from the Young family said, "If you were in the room with [Malcolm Young] and walked out, then came back in one minute later, he wouldn't remember who you are. He has a complete loss of short-term memory. His wife, Linda, has put him in full-time care."
As previously reported, AC/DC will release Rock or Bust on Dec. 2. Many details about the new LP are scarce, but it has been confirmed that it will contain 11 tracks. Though an official lead single has not been named, fans of the hard rock band will be able to hear a new song, "Play Ball," during the upcoming Major League Baseball playoff games on Turner Sports and TBS.
But Malcolm isn't along for the ride.
"Unfortunately, due to the nature of Malcolm's condition, he will not be returning to the band," a press release stated. "AC/DC will undertake a world tour in support of Rock or Bust in 2015. Stevie Young, nephew of founding members Angus Young and Malcolm Young, plays rhythm guitar on Rock or Bust and will accompany the band on tour."
Here's the "Play Ball" promo:
