This is what people mean when they refer to "the Detroit sound". What can we say about this record that hasn't already been said? Derrick May's follow up to Nude Photo pushed the nascent sound of Detroit techno into territory that was simultaneously deeper and more jackin'. Frankie Knuckles, who gave "Strings Of Life" its name, is partially responsible for breaking the record overseas and spreading the techno virus. "It just exploded. It was like something you can't imagine, the kind of power and energy people got off that record when it was first heard", says Knuckles. Backed with the hilariously titled yet incredibly tough flange workout "Kaos (Juice Bar Mix)", we can't think of another 12-inch that better exemplifies what Detroit techno is all about. All three cuts on the same plate for the first time in 25 years. Recommended.

• music label: Transmat 2017

reviewed by peanut dust 03/2017