In your never-ending quest for truly alternative music, have you reached Can yet? I’m sure you’ve heard the name. You’re slightly acquainted with the term "kraut rock" and you’re looking for something psychedelic... raw, yet German. May I introduce you to Out of Reach?
In 1978 the Can camp was in disarray. Unofficial group leader, Holger Czukay had left the band after one of the most fertile periods of music in any band’s career. Largely responsible for the trio of classic Can releases (Tago Mago, Ege Bamyasi and Future Days), Can entered the studio to record Out of Reach with the new incarnation featuring Reebob Kwaku Baah and Rosko Gee of Traffic fame.
The result was a surprisingly groovy affair. Less radical and unwieldy than previous Can releases, Out of Reach tones down the band’s jammy meandering into a more concise groove. With hints of Miles Davis’ fusion and a distinctive Santana-esque guitar sound, Out of Reach is a fantastic listen and a great introduction to the band.
Tracks like "Serpetine" and "Seven Days Awake" are almost robotic in their drum groove, yet the distinctive Can sound gives the tracks a more human element. Guitar solos surround "Pauper’s Daughter and I" that add a more conventional approach to the band’s repertoire.
When you decide your ready for Can, check out the classic releases first but don’t bat an eye on Out of Reach…a very rewarding artifact.
1. Serpentine
2. Pauper's Daughter and I
3. November
4. Seven Days Awake
5. Give Me No Roses
6. Like Inobe God
7. One More Day
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