FUTURE DAYS

CAN (Comminisn Anarchism, Nihlism) is my favorite krautrock band. In 1970, Damo Suzuki joined the band to replace Malcolm Mooney (i.e Monster Movies). Subsequently, while Damo remained in thebabnnd, CAN released four studio albums, theire last with Damo, Future Days being my favorite.

This album is quite mellow and more subdued than prior releases (i.e. Ege Bamyasi and Tago Mago). Damo' vocals are faint and subtle while providing that whimsical air that enthralled many avid krautrock fans to listen to ealier Suzuki efforts.

"Future Days" begins with an atmosphere of water being poured into a cup, than Holgar Czukay;s bass comes in, however, its Jaki Liebezeit's comforting drumming that makes this song work (just listen to this on great pair of headphones, you'll understand), Irmin Schmidt contrubutes minimilist keyboard work to add to mellow atmosphere of the song. Suzuki comes in, hushed as ever, ensuing whimsical, airy guitar part enters, courtesy of Michael Kroli. Fantastic track, Overall, this is my favorite track on the album.

"Spray" less accesible than the prior tarck, but good nonetheless. Perhaps the most avat-garde track on the album. Liebezeit provides some fast, precise drumming which is rightly countered with an array of keyboard effects. Czukays's bass work makes the song a success. Damo showcases few unuual noises. a jazz track, but fits within the great context of the album.

"Moonshake" the worst song ont he album, too poppy for my tastes, I believe it was releases as a single by the band, not sure though. And, dont be misguided to believe its like "Spoon" its not, its much worse. Fortunately, it is the shortest cut on the album.

And now, "Bel Air," the song title alone engenders scenes of whimsical enjoyment in the misty mountaintops. This one of my favorite epics of alltime, ironically, it is the second best track on the album (Fututre days 1st). Every band member shines on this song, Suzuki's vocals are just above a whisper. The atmospheres are brilliant and well thought-out, none are overdone, and none are too short. To think this is like "Dead Flag Blues (GYBE) will rob you of the bliss expereiced my countless krautrock fans and avant-garde fans alike oon this track.

Finally, I would exhort prog fans to purchase this album if in need of some mellow music and have an open-mind. If you are new to CANn, I would advise you as well to purchase this enthralling release, from here go to Ege Bmayasi. I have heard that Soon Over Babluma is suppose to be equally laid-back with a more prominent guitar effort by Karoli, however, I have not listened to that album yet, I'll get around to it in future days