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MC5

Musical Group
Forrock fans into proto-punk, detroit history buffs, and readers who like their reviews loud and political.
8 Reviews 20 Definitions 21 Charts
Rock Hard Rock Garage

The Profile

MC5 were an American rock band from Lincoln Park, Michigan, active 1963–1972. Celebrated for high-energy performances and radical politics, they became key proto‑punk influencers. The classic lineup featured Rob Tyner, Wayne Kramer, Fred “Sonic” Smith, Michael Davis, and Dennis Thompson. Their signature live debut, Kick Out the Jams (1969), is a touchstone of Detroit rock.

Managed early on by John Sinclair and associated with the White Panther Party. The live debut was recorded at Detroit’s Grande Ballroom (1968) and released in 1969. Back in the USA (1970) was produced by Jon Landau; High Time followed in 1971. The group disbanded in 1972.

Six passionate DeBaser reviews chart MC5’s blast of Detroit proto-punk, praising the seismic live debut and debating the streamlined Back in the USA. Politics, volume, and influence loom large. Expect White Panthers context, Jon Landau’s production pivot, and many guitar fumes. Overall mood: high-energy admiration with a few sharp elbows.

Notable Quotes

❝ And right now... right now... right now it's time to... kick out the jams, motherfuckers!!!!!!
❝ Recorded live in 1968 (on Halloween night) at the Grande Ballroom...
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