The influential German band Can has announced the release of their long-awaited live album, Can Live in Keele 1977, set to drop on November 22, 2024. This album is the latest addition to their series of live recordings previously unearthed from Spoon Records vaults and fan recordings, curated by founding member Irmin Schmidt and producer Ren Tinner.
Can Live in Keele 1977 captures a performance that many fans have eagerly awaited since the series began. The recording, made in March 1977, features the core lineup of Schmidt, Jaki Liebezeit, Michael Karoli, and Holger Czukay, along with the addition of Rosko Gee from Traffic, who replaced Czukay on bass for this show, allowing Czukay to focus on his innovative sound manipulation techniques.
Despite the challenging time for Can—following the mixed reviews of their eighth studio album Saw Delight—this performance is heralded for displaying the band’s dynamic sonic capabilities. The album includes lengthy improvisational tracks such as “Keele 77 Eins”, which extends for over ten minutes, alongside others that explore ambient rock alongside chaotic sonic expressions.
The Can Live series was launched with Can Live in Stuttgart 1975, followed by several other notable releases like Can Live in Brighton 1975 and Can Live in Paris 1973. The Keele recording promises to amplify the experimental essence that has defined Can as significant pioneers in the musical landscape. The announcement was shared through their label Mute Records, further affirming the band's legacy as essential figures in avant-garde music. Fans can pre-order the album here. The album will be available on double vinyl, CD, and digitally via Mute and Future Days.
For an overview of Can's discography, you can refer to the Mute Records artist page.