The legendary proto-punk band MC5, pioneers of the Detroit rock scene, have announced their first new album in over half a century. Titled Heavy Lifting, this release marks the band’s return to the studio after 53 years, since their 1971 album High Time. The announcement comes with the debut of their new single, “Boys Who Play With Matches,” a track that encapsulates the raw energy and rebellious spirit that MC5 is renowned for.

Heavy Lifting features a blend of new and old, with vocals and guitar from the band’s late founder, Wayne Kramer. Kramer, who passed away in 2018, was a driving force in the band’s sound and legacy. His contributions, preserved through archival recordings, lend a poignant authenticity to the album, making it a heartfelt tribute as much as a fresh chapter in MC5’s storied career.

The album also boasts an impressive roster of guest musicians, including Tom Morello of Rage Against the Machine, who is known for his incendiary guitar work and political activism, and Slash from Guns N’ Roses, whose iconic riffs have shaped the landscape of rock music. These collaborations inject new life into MC5’s sound, bridging the gap between their groundbreaking past and the dynamic present.

“Boys Who Play With Matches” is a blistering track that harkens back to MC5’s roots while pushing their sound forward. It’s a high-energy anthem that tackles themes of rebellion and unrest, perfectly aligned with the band’s historic ethos of challenging the status quo. The song’s release has been met with enthusiasm from longtime fans and newcomers alike, eager to experience the resurgence of one of rock’s most influential bands.

With Heavy Lifting, MC5 not only cements their legacy but also proves that their revolutionary spirit is very much alive. This album is set to be a landmark in rock history, a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and provoke.