Legendary Detroit punk band MC5 has unveiled their latest single, "Heavy Lifting," featuring Tom Morello of Rage Against The Machine. This track serves as the third single from their forthcoming album of the same name, set to be released on October 18, 2024. This new music marks the first album from the iconic group in over 53 years, demonstrating their enduring legacy in rock music.
Wayne Kramer, the founding member of MC5, is at the helm of this project, collaborating with Oakland singer-songwriter Brad Brooks to co-write twelve of the album's thirteen songs. The album was recorded with renowned producer Bob Ezrin, known for his work with artists such as Lou Reed and Alice Cooper. The record will feature contributions from original drummer Dennis "Machine Gun" Thompson on two tracks, despite his passing earlier this year, making it his final studio recording.
"Heavy Lifting" carries the weight of punk and protest rock's history while promising a positive message amidst contemporary challenges. In an interview, Kramer expressed that the album aims to stay relevant with the times, echoing the band's initial ethos from the late 60s.
The complete track listing includes notable collaborations with musicians like Slash, William DuVall from Alice In Chains, and Vernon Reid of Living Colour. In addition to the standard album, a bonus 2CD/2LP will feature previously unreleased live recordings from the MC50 tour in 2018, celebrating the group's debut album, "Kick Out the Jams."
Fans can pre-order "Heavy Lifting" now for CD, vinyl, and digital formats. The release coincides with the band’s induction into the 2024 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, where they will receive the Musical Excellence Award, underscoring their impact on the music world.
For more information and to pre-order, visit MC5's official store.