Can

Release Overview

In September 1974, Can released "Limited Edition" under United Artists Records (catalog USP 103). This vinyl LP was produced in a limited run of 15,000 copies across Germany and the UK. The album was designed to satisfy the demand from fans during a gap between studio albums. It later inspired the expanded double LP "Unlimited Edition" released in 1976.

Compilation Features

"Limited Edition" compiles a variety of rare and previously unreleased studio sessions, experiments, and spontaneous jams recorded from 1968 to 1974. This time frame spans both the Malcolm Mooney and Damo Suzuki eras of the band. The album includes four tracks from Can's Ethnological Forgery Series (E.F.S.), which are stylistic parodies of world folk traditions. These tracks are "E.F.S. No. 27," "E.F.S. No. 7," "E.F.S. No. 10," and "E.F.S. No. 36."

Track Highlights

Among the thirteen tracks, listeners can find "Gomorrha" and "Doko E." The album also features "I'm Too Leise," "Musette," and "Blue Bag (Inside Paper)." Malcolm Mooney contributes a manic storytelling style in "The Empress And The Ukraine King," while "Mother Upduff" presents a dark and humorous narrative. The experimental nature of Can is evident throughout the compilation, showcasing their unique blend of rock, avant-garde, and ethnic influences.

Recording Details

The tracks were recorded at Inner Space Studio, located in Schloss Nörvenich and Weilerswist, Germany, between 1968 and 1974. The band members include Malcolm Mooney on vocals for early tracks, Damo Suzuki on later tracks, Holger Czukay on bass guitar and tape editing, Michael Karoli on electric and acoustic guitars, Jaki Liebezeit on drums, and Irmin Schmidt on keyboards and synthesizers.

Art and Design

The album's art direction was handled by Pierre Tubbs, with photography by Derek Richards. The visual presentation complements the experimental sound of the music, encapsulating the avant-garde aesthetic that Can is known for.

Conclusion

Can's "Limited Edition" was released in September 1974 and is a compilation of recordings made between 1968 and 1974.