MONSTER MOVIE

Can, among other characteristics, is one of the few bands which have more than one (in this case, two) debuts. And this one is the second by recording, first by release date.

Listening to Delay 1968, one may understand why Monster Movie was released instead of it, and still keep on wondering if any of the tracks (at least shorter ones on side 1) were already present during the initial production of Delay.

The three (relatively) short tracks on side 1, and the improvisational 20 minute Yoo Doo Right on side 2 reveal hints of what was later to come: psychedelic roots (which are more evident in Delay), electronic experimentation, outstanding vocals. As with the most other debuts, these are only shadows of the delightful future work, which peaked in Tago Mago. Yet, this is a good starting point for those who want to know about the band.

The only problem (which later surfaced with the release of compilations) with this album is that 3 out of 4 tracks are included in 2 other albums, Cannibalism 1 and Anthology (the former of which is identical with the 1st CD of the latter!), eventually reducing the interest for those who already have the mentioned compilations. Even the side-long psychedelic jam Yoo Doo Right is featured in its full-length! Actually if you have either of them, you may easily forget about buying this as well, 35 minutes of the 40 minute album is already present! The remaining track "Mary Mary so Contrary" is not so essential.

Either way, excellent addition to a prog collection, but suffering from the shortcomings of a debut, preventing it to become a masterpiece.