Can "Music (Live 1971-1977)" Mute Corporation 9102-2 1999
CD1 (62:38)
Jynx (16:07)
Dizzy Dizzy (7:53)
Vernal Equinox (13:04)
Fizz (6:19)
Yoo Doo Right (14:26)
Cascade Waltz (4:49)
CD2 (60:19)
Colchester Finale (37:22)
Kata Kong (8:31)
Spoon (14:26)
Can are considered one of the leading "krautrock" groups of the '70s. Their music was a blend of classically trained, avant-garde noise, "sampling", psychedelic rock and electronic music that was extremely influential on generations of rock, post-punk, techno and ambient artists to come. "Music (Live)" was originally 1 of 3 items (the other two being a book and video) that comprised the limited edition, 30th anniversary "Box" box set. The 2 cd set documents over 2 hours of Can's explosive live sound via non-professional recordings from 8 different European shows between 1972 and 1977. Of the 9 tracks, which are primarily instrumental, 4 ("Jynx", "Fizz", "Colchester Finale" and "Kata Kong") are what Can describe as 'instant compositions', spontaneous jams created right then and there on stage. The improvisations are the real treat here as Can blasts off in every imaginable direction from quiet, subdued psychedelia and ambiance to chaotic rhythms and massive layers of sound ... all as sophisticated as if these were fully written and rehearsed songs. Jaki Liebezeit's mathematically precise drumming sets the framework for the guitar, bass, keyboards and tape effects to freely explore over. The classic songs are just as freely jammed out and otherwise altered as well. "Dizzy Dizzy" and "Spoon" in particular are extended greatly beyond their studio versions. "Cascade Waltz" stands out as it's a gentle and beautifully atmospheric waltz. The recording quality is surprisingly good for what is essentially bootleg tapes. Unfortunately, the '72 tracks ("Colchester Finale" and "Spoon") are a bit sketchy in terms of sound quality, but the quality of what Can is playing more than makes up for it. But as a whole, "Music (Live)" is a superb document of one of music's great innovators. It's as good a place to begin a Can collection as any of the studio albums, especially for those fond of freeform music. Look for the two videos (also originally part of the "Box" box set) to be released in early 2000 ...
Where did I get this cd? - mail order via Amazon.com