TRAX Records releases first vinyl in a decade to celebrate 40th anniversary

Iconic Chicago label TRAX Records has announced the limited edition vinyl release of 'Rising Again' to commemorate its 40th anniversary. Only 500 copies will be pressed, with executive producer Pi Rho leading the two-year project.

Founded in 1985, TRAX Records helped define house music with pioneers such as Frankie Knuckles, Larry Heard, DJ Pierre and current label owner Screamin’ Rachael, whose vocals feature on all tracks of this new package. It also brings together legacy artists like Joe Smooth and emerging talents including Jacques x Gregory, Spada, and DJ Thäd X.

Says Joe Smooth, "I was very excited to get involved with the ‘Rising Again’ project on the iconic TRAX Records label as it is ushering in a new chapter with the first TRAX vinyl release in a decade, together with the next generation of producers aligning with House Music. House Music is Music of the People, so being a non-profit project made it extra attractive as it is set for giving back!”

The production combines traditional recording techniques, including work on a Neve console and use of vintage synths, with innovative technology such as brain-computer interfaces powered by gen-AI to generate unique sounds.

The EP features the deep house of 'I’ll Take You There,' a collaboration between Screamin’ Rachael and French duo Jacques x Gregory, superb Joe Smooth Afro remix of 'Rising,' the dancehall flow of 'Hands Up Jamaica' by Kushgad, a percussive gem 'The Ultimate House Party' by Jacques x Gregory 'Rising' (Spada Remix) by the Italian producer who brings some acid house flair, and a remastered version of the raw original track produced by Screamin’ Rachael and DJ Thäd X.

'Rising Again' is a not-for-profit release in partnership with DJs4good, with proceeds going to SocialWorks, a Chicago-based charity founded by Chance the Rapper. Just 500 copies of this special release will be pressed and you can order it here.

https://pirhotrax.bandcamp.com/album/rising-again-trx2620-500-copies-only-trax-records-x-pi-rho