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Kick Out The Jams is the explosive 1969 debut album from the proto-punk quintet MC5, recorded live over two nights at Detroit's Grande Ballroom by famed producer/engineer Bruce Botnick. Recording a debut album live was unheard of at the time, but MC5 and as it turns out the music world alike, felt it was the best representation of what the band was truly about.
Featuring Rob Tyner on vocals, Wayne Kramer and Fred 'Sonic' Smith on guitar, Michael Davis on bass, and Dennis Thompson on drums, the unrelenting 8-song set is as raw and powerful as they come, highlighted by the revered title track, John Lee Hooker's blues number "Motor City Burning," and an eight and a half minute Sun Ra workout "Starship."
"It's the ultimate rock salute: 'Kick out the jams, motherfuckers!' Recorded live in Detroit by Rob Tyner and his anarchist crew, Kick Out the Jams writhes and hollers with the belief in rock & roll as civil disobedience. The proof: It was banned by a Michigan department store!" - #294 on Rolling Stones 500 Greatest Albums of All Time