Can was founded in 1968 by Irmin Schmidt, Holger Czukay, Michael Karoli and Jaki Liebezeit, and were joined by vocalists Malcolm Mooney (1968-69 + 1989) and Damo Suzuki (1970-73). Can disbanded in 1979, although came back together on occasion, most notably for 1989's album Rite Time.
Their unprecedented and bold marriage of hypnotic grooves and avant-garde instrumental textures has made them one of the most important and innovative bands of all time. The five album run of Monster Movie, Soundtracks, Tago Mago, Ege Bamyasi and Future Days between 1969 and 1973, is arguably one of the most astonishing consecutive series of albums released of all time.
Can’s powerful influence has never diminished, and their indelible mark is apparent in the bands who freely acknowledge their importance - from Portishead, James Murphy, New Order, Public Image Ltd, Mogwai, Kanye West (who sampled ‘Sing Swan Song’) and Radiohead - as well as across other disciplines such as visual art and literature. In recent years, overseen by founding member Irmin Schmidt, a series of live recordings have been painstakingly pieced together, run through the wringer of 21st century technology and these vital historical documents have given fans an entirely new way to experience the band.
