A second advance track has been released from influential Detroit proto-punk band the MC5’s forthcoming studio album, Heavy Lifting. The song, “Can’t Be Found,” features contributions by founding MC5 drummer Dennis Thompson and Living Colour guitarist Vernon Reid.
“Can’t Be Found” is a hard-rocking anthem reminiscent of the MC5’s classic work of the late 1960s and early ’70s. The track is available now as a digital download and via streaming services. You also can check it out at the earMUSIC label’s YouTube channel.
Videos by American Songwriter
[RELATED: MC5 Drummer Dennis Thompson, the Band’s Last Surviving Original Member, Dead at 75]
Heavy Lifting will be the MC5’s first studio album since the release of High Time in 1971. Original MC5 guitarist Wayne Kramer, who died of pancreatic cancer in February at age 75, recorded the new album with a variety of guest artists. In addition to the aforementioned Thompson, who played on two tracks, and Reid, Heavy Lifting features appearances by Slash, Tom Morello, Alice in Chains singer William DuVall, acclaimed producer/bassist Don Was, Rise Against frontman Tim McIlrath, and Paul McCartney touring drummer Abe Laboriel Jr.
The album was produced by Bob Ezrin, noted for his work with Lou Reed, Alice Cooper, KISS, and Deep Purple.
Thompson, who was the last surviving original MC5 members, died in May at age 75. The drummer’s passing came just a few weeks after it was announced that the MC5 will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame this year in conjunction with receiving the Musical Excellence Award. Heavy Lifting will be released on October 18, one day before the induction ceremony takes place in Cleveland.
Kramer wrote 12 of Heavy Lifting’s 13 tracks along with Oakland, California, singer/songwriter Brad Brooks. Wayne is featured on guitar and vocals throughout the record.
“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,” Kramer said of the project in a 2023 interview with Uncut magazine. “We made an album that is in sync with the challenges we’re facing today, and that carries a positive message.”
“Can’t Be Found” was preceded in June by the release of lead single “Boys Who Play with Matches.”
Heavy Lifting Release Details
Heavy Lifting, which can be pre-ordered now, will be available on CD, as a vinyl LP, and via digital formats. In addition, deluxe two-disc CD and vinyl versions will be sold that feature a bonus disc with an unreleased live performance recorded in 2018 during the MC50 tour.
The trek celebrated the 50th anniversary of the MC5’s 1969 debut album, Kick Out the Jams. It featured Kramer performing with a band that included Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil, Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty, Faith No More bassist Billy Gould, and singer Marcus Durant of the band Zen Guerrilla. The show also featured a guest appearance by Mudhoney frontman Mark Arm.
Most Popular
Comments / 0