metta, anxiety, and anger
It is normal or expected for metta practise to bring up underlying mental states of non-metta. 

Also, in Buddhism, to understand the quality of our 'friends' or 'associates' is also important (refer to "foes in the guise of friends" &amp; "warm-hearted friends" in the Sigalovada Sutta). 

Many people in the world may appear 'superficial' to us, particularly if we are 'crisis oriented'. 

If these 'associates' pose no inherent danger to us, we can let go of our expectations towards them and show friendship in a less-personal &amp; more detached manner. 

Most of your anger appears to be related to expectations you have towards these people that those people cannot fulfil. If so, your expectation towards them are unreasonable.  

If your lifestyle has changed &amp; you wish to associate when them less, simply say so to them. 

This does not mean you cannot be there for them if they need something important from you.