Keeping true to his assurances that legendary Australian hard rock band AC/DC are continuing to make music despite Malcolm Young taking leave due to illness, frontman Brian Johnson has revealed that AC/DC’s next album is already finished.

According to Metalhammer, Johnson also revealed the band considered calling their 15th studio record Man Down, in reference to their ill bandmate, AC/DC founder Malcolm Young. Johnson reportedly made the comments while in Newcastle today where he will be given an honorary doctorate at the University of Northumbria.

According to the university’s website, Johnson will receive his honorary degree alongside students graduating from Engineering and Environment degree programmes on Wednesday. “The recipients of honorary degrees are nominated by the University’s staff for their achievements, their links to the University – and for their sheer inspirational qualities,” it reads.

“Brian Johnson, who was born down the river at Dunston, is the lead vocalist for AC/DC, one of the world’s most successful rock bands. They have sold an estimated 150 million albums world-wide and their most recent tour, Black Ice, is claimed to be the third highest-grossing tour of all time.”

Earlier this year, Brian Johnson announced on his motor racing website that AC/DC are “likely” to tour before the end of the year. Since then rumours have emerged pointing at a possible AC/DC Glastonbury 2015 headlining set.

UPDATE 10/07/14: Johnson has told media that Malcolm Young has been hospitalised. Details here.