FUTURE DAYS

I can say as a modest fan of CAN, this is a disappointment. CAN's previous two classic albums were very vital in the rock department but contained some rather ''take-it-or-leave-it'' experimental tracks. FUTURE DAYS sees CAN go more boldly in the experimental direction by crossing that part of their music over the threshold into their penchant for creating interesting beats. Two honourable things blended together doesn't always make a nice mix; this sounds like CAN trying to mix chocolate syrup with bacon bits.

This album sees Irmin Schmidt coming to the forefront of the sound as every song save for one seems to be based around and features his keyboard padding. I'll admit that I'm glad there's more keyboards since past albums always struggled to bring Schmidt into the sound. Now, Schmidt is very present in the sound as is Jaki Liebezeit as usual. Unfortunately, the other three members are barely noticeable. I only notice Holger Czukay on ''Bel Air'' and Karoli and Damo are detectable in specs throughout the album.

The three gargantuan tracks (title, ''Spray'', ''Bel Air'') are loaded with keyboard pads and drum patterns and little of anything else unless your ears are amazing. Bedtime would be more appropriate to listen to these tracks than in the future because generally nothing happens throughout most of the album. The exception is the poppy ''Moonshake'', a light, almost tropical song that actually puts Damo and Karoli centre stage. All in a three minute track that sounds like a single.

I've been hoping to find the CAN album that is a runaway masterpiece, and I really wanted FUTURE DAYS to be that album. Instead, I find the album to be one of the most lulling experiences I've had with music. TAGO MAGO is an earth-shattering album that I would recommend to any listener interested in the band; FUTURE DAYS shall be left to the hardcore fans that wish to the balance of musical roles shift.