So until this month I screened all my phone calls. But then I got a voicemail from Malcolm Mooney (of fucking CAN) “Hey Sam this is Malcolm Mooney from CAN…”
I was a bit petrified.. did I miss the opportunity to speak to this highly influential and super far out poet, artist, educator who sang ‘YOO DOO RIGHT’ among other classic jams of my life!? Well, no. Malcolm called me repeatedly that week, clearing all the details for a last minute show in Boston he’d like me to set up. I dont know if I was more honored that he was pointed in the direction of Boston Hassle or inspired that this 70-80 year old legend is still booking his own shows personally. Anyway, I immediately thought of HERBCRAFT cause even if this rare chance to see a decorated poet in a basement in Davis Sq. falls on deaf, uneducated ears, at least our boys from Maine will hold it down in the front row after giving it all they got. So don’t be like me and screen this show call cause you might not get another chance to see this dude.
Check below for some scraps of our conversation & what Boston has to do with a legend of the World Underground Scene.
Boston Hassle: We are so glad to have you back in town! When was the last time you were in Boston?
Malcolm Mooney: I think I was there in June of 2017. We had played in VT. at Buch Spieler Records. And then I traveled down to Boston to see my sister and her family. Wm. Mooney-McCoy and his son Ethan are on the poster for Wednesday nights gig.
BH: Do you have ties to the area? Someone told me you were living in JP at one point??
MM: I lived on Commonwealth Ave. during the 60’s while attending BU. Later in 2004 I returned to Boston. Lived in Dorchester Center.
BH: It’s inspiring that you are still booking your own shows. Have you ever used a booking agent or have you always done it yourself?
MM: Presently, 3rd Banana Productions is my go to.
BH: Have you been working on music consistently over the years or was there a sort of hiatus while you focused on art, poetry and teaching?
MM: Always involved in the music. Either directly, or indirectly with my poetry. Music has always been a part of my life.
BH: What can we expect Wednesday night? Will fans of CAN and Tenth Planet feel right at home or a bit challenged by what your’e doing these days?
MM: They will feel right at home. We will be doing THIEF and SHE BRINGS THE RAIN along with a number of Tenth Planet songs.
BH: Looking forward!!
MM: I’m looking forward to this performance and making new friends.
Tickets: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/3432709 (12 adv, 15 doors)
Flyer by Solei