MC5 Releases Second Single From Upcoming Album 'Heavy Lifting'
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Detroit punk rockers, MC5, released their latest single, "Can't Be Found," featuring Vernon Reid and Dennis Thompson. This track is the second release from their upcoming album, “Heavy Lifting”, set to drop on October 18.
MC5, emerging from the gritty streets of Detroit in the mid-60s, revolutionized rock'n'roll with their incendiary fusion of garage rock, blues, soul, free jazz, and proto-punk. Their radical left-wing stance and explosive live performances solidified their status as pioneers of punk and protest rock, inspiring countless musicians, from the Ramones and The Clash to Rage Against The Machine and The White Stripes.
The album, recorded under the masterful guidance of iconic producer Bob Ezrin—known for his work with Deftones, Alice Cooper, and KISS—brings together a stellar lineup of musicians who are friends of Kramer; Slash, Tom Morello, William DuVall (Alice in Chains), Vernon Reid (Living Colour), Don Was, and Tim McIlrath (Rise Against). This collaborative effort bridges generations, uniting musicians inspired by MC5’s fearless approach to music and activism.
“Heavy Lifting” is not just a nostalgic trip; it's a testament to the enduring spirit of punk. The album marks MC5’s first new music release in over 50 years, following their 1971 album High Time. Tragically, it also stands as the final studio recording for both Wayne Kramer and Dennis Thompson. Prolific for five decades, Kramer was the last remaining active member of MC5. He passed away suddenly in February, followed by the death of drummer Dennis ‘Machine Gun’ Thompson in May.
In an interview with UNCUT in November 2023, Kramer discussed the album, saying, "Live long and stay creative. This is my attitude. And this album continues from where 'High Time' left off. In that, I think it's an artist’s responsibility to reflect the times they're going through. And I think that we made an album that is in sync with where we're at today and the challenges that we're facing, and that carries a positive message.”
In addition to the 13-track album, a 2CD / 2LP bonus disc will be released including previously unreleased live recordings from the MC50 tour in 2018 celebrating the 50th anniversary of MC5’s revered 1969 debut album, Kick Out the Jams, which features classic anthems like “Kick Out the Jams” and “Ramblin’ Rose.”
Alongside Kramer, the MC50 live band features Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil, Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty, Faith No More’s bassist Billy Gould, and frontman Marcus Durant (Zen Guerrilla) with a special guest appearance by Mark Arm (Mudhoney).
As MC5 prepares for their induction into the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, HEAVY LIFTING serves as a powerful reminder that the rebellious, revolutionary spirit of punk rock is very much alive and continues to inspire new generations of musicians and fans alike.
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