Heavy Lifting: The Immortal Power of Rock That Never Dies

"Heavy Lifting," despite what the cover suggests, is not strictly an album by the legendary MC5, though the essence of the band resonates in every track. This record is, in fact, a tribute driven by guitarist Wayne Kramer, who was a key figure in creating that raw and wild proto-punk sound that emerged from the heart of Detroit. Alongside him, drummer Dennis Thompson appears on a couple of tracks, both key figures who sadly passed away before the album's release, giving it a nostalgic and somewhat confusing air about its purpose. However, it's undeniable that this album carries the revolutionary rock stamp that the MC5 pioneered more than half a century ago.

The spark behind "Heavy Lifting" came from the collaboration between Kramer and another icon of the Detroit scene: Alice Cooper. Like Kramer, Cooper was both a witness and a protagonist of the musical effervescence that marked the late 1960s. In 2020, Cooper released "Detroit Stories," a tribute to the overflowing energy of that era. In this context, Bob Ezrin, the legendary producer and Cooper’s collaborator, met Kramer and decided to join the creation of "Heavy Lifting." The result is an album that, while not a direct comeback of the MC5, does capture the fury and spirit of the band, with Kramer leading and a host of top-tier guest artists helping to conjure the ghost of those glorious times.

Ezrin's influence is palpable in every corner of the album. This producer, famous for revitalizing Deep Purple in the last decade, has once again shown his ability to breathe energy into bands with years of history. Under his direction, "Heavy Lifting" becomes a sonic tribute that perfectly blends elements of the blues, jazz, and funk that always characterized the MC5, with the hard rock that inspired bands like Aerosmith, Kiss, New York Dolls, and Rage Against the Machine. More than a simple copy, the album offers a respectful and powerful nod to the sound revolution that the MC5 unleashed in Detroit.

The title track, "Heavy Lifting," is a clear example of Kramer's ability to make rock sound fresh and relevant. The collaboration with Tom Morello on guitar, a master at creating unique and challenging sounds, gives the album a contemporary feel while paying tribute to the combative spirit of the MC5. The track "Barbarians at the Gate," on the other hand, is a direct response to the political turbulence of recent years, especially the events of the 2021 Capitol riot, showing that the MC5's legacy of social criticism remains alive.

In "The Edge of the Switchblade," Alice In Chains vocalist William DuVall and legendary guitarist Slash join Kramer to bring a piece full of energy and passion to life. DuVall contributes his distinctive vocal style, while Slash delivers a fierce solo that recalls the intensity of the best moments of '70s rock. It's impossible not to feel the nostalgia of those days when the MC5 broke the mold with their incendiary music, yet "Heavy Lifting" feels both current and relevant.

Another standout track is "Black Boots," where Tim McIlrath from Rise Against takes the helm. Here, the connection between past and present is felt, with McIlrath channeling the youthful fury that once defined the MC5. The aggressiveness and sense of urgency in the track evoke the same energy that made Detroit proto-punk a reference point for the punk that would come years later.

"I Am the Fun (The Phoney)" is perhaps the best representation of the connection between the MC5 and the grunge scene of the '90s. It's impossible not to think of bands like Soundgarden when listening to this track, which flows with a hypnotic rhythm and a dense atmosphere reminiscent of the best eras of alternative rock. The influence of the MC5 on bands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam is well-documented, and this track makes it even clearer.

"Heavy Lifting" cannot be discussed without mentioning the incredible vocal work of Brad Brooks, who takes on the challenge of filling the shoes of the late Rob Tyner. His performance on tracks like "Can't Be Found" is a testament to respect and dedication to the band's legacy. Brooks, along with the tireless Kramer, captures the essence of what made the MC5 so innovative.

The final tribute to the band comes with "Blind Eye," where Dennis Thompson's participation on drums is crucial. Here, memories of the early days of the MC5 resurface with force, and it's easy to imagine the band playing at their peak in some Detroit club, electrifying a crowd with their visceral sound. Vernon Reid's guitar work on this track is equally impressive, elevating the already imposing musical legacy of the band.

Although "Heavy Lifting" is not an MC5 album in its entirety, it is a worthy tribute that encapsulates the band's energy and impact on rock history. Under Kramer's and Ezrin's direction, this album not only looks to the past but also shows how hard rock remains a relevant force.

"Heavy Lifting" is much more than a simple homage: it is a testament to the enduring influence of the MC5 and the legacy of rock 'n' roll. The collaborations with contemporary artists, Ezrin's impeccable approach, and the dedication of Kramer and Brooks make this album an essential piece of rock.