THIRD RAIL Schallplatten & CDs

Review: There was one irrepressible Chicago club act that refused to be replaced by any DJ's sound system. Soul septet Maxx Traxx (and Third Rail before them) commanded a scene unto themselves in the early 80s, playing live five-plus nights a week somewhere in the 312. Their two LPs, both recorded in 1982, are a sheer energy-ride almost too explosive to be captured by studio tape. And yet these two stone-cold classics would remain unanswered by a city, as it moved determinedly toward the motorik sound of house. Hop the turnstile and move with this complete document of Chicago's last great club band told in detailed text, newly revealed photos and complete studio recordings painstakingly remastered.

Review: This scorching 7" single features standout tracks from Chicago's Third Rail, who later became known as Maxx Traxx, and specifically for their monster hit 'Don't Touch It' (which has also been reissued by Star Creature and Numero before now). These tracks are drawn from the band's sole 1982 album, Reachin' For It, which is listed on Discogs for over L700, so not one for the feint-hearted. The single delivers high-octane, first-wave boogie with big bass, catchy choruses, energetic playing, and soulful vocals that infuse both tracks with joy and positivity. Limited import copies mean this will go pick and become pricey again so don't dally on it.