Stratus / Girl b/w Wild Woman (2023 Reissue)

Artist: Stratus
Title: Girl b/w Wild Woman (2023 Reissue)
Label: Motherlode Music
Cat.#: MM002
Format: 7" Vinyl
Country: UK
Released: 2023
Style: Disco, Soul

Track Listing:Stratus were a cross-genre rock band formed around 1974 in Rhinelander, Wisconsin, led by Robert Ackley. Originally recorded in 1976 at Wildwood Recording Studios, an embellished description of a basement in Rhinelander, Wisconsin. This release was funded by a local dentist and promoted by ‘Cathy’, Ackley’s muse and inspiration for the release and the track ‘Girl’ in particular. Only 1000 copies were ever pressed, the majority of which were subsequently distributed by the band at shows as pseudo-business cards, with many pristine original copies as a result becoming lost to time. The tracks have since resurfaced in Europe many years later, much to the surprise and joy of Ackley himself. Remastered from one of the last remaining mint condition original presses, this release is a must for all collectors of blue eyed soul and AOR rarities. This reissue marks the first release in 7” format since its 1976 debut.

‘Girl’ is a glorious soulful, jazz fusion rarity, replete with glorious drum breaks and affecting vocal and keyboard melodies.

‘Wild Woman’ on the other hand is a classic 70s psychgarage rock jam that has remained unheard since it’s original release.