Expansion Records

If you are hunting for the absolute peak of Modern Soul from the independent scene, EXS004 is your prize. Crystal Motion was a group that existed on the fringes of the Chicago soul scene, and for decades, their music was the stuff of legend—heard on scratchy "cover-up" acetates but never available to the masses. Expansion’s 2018 reissue finally gave these tracks the high-fidelity, official release that collectors had been dreaming of for forty years. The Product: Crystal Motion – You’re My Main Squeeze / (It’s) Wonderful Label: Expansion / Sound City Format: 7" Vinyl Single (45 RPM) Catalog Number: EXS004 Release Year: 2018 Side A: "You’re My Main Squeeze" (Part 1 & 2) A mid-tempo masterpiece that defines the "Modern Soul" sound. It features a rolling, hypnotic bassline and sophisticated vocal harmonies that bridge the gap between 70s soul and early 80s boogie. The production is airy and spacious, allowing the lead vocal to float over a perfectly syncopated rhythm section. Side B: "(It’s) Wonderful" An uplifting, soulful dancer that showcases the group's "Sweet Soul" roots. While the A-side is the club anthem, the B-side is highly respected by purists for its intricate arrangement and pure, joyful delivery. Fascinating Collector’s Facts & Figures 1. The £1,500 Original The original 1975 release on the tiny Sound City label is one of the rarest 7-inch singles in existence. The Figure: Original copies are so scarce that they have fetched upwards of £1,500 ($1,900) at auction. The "Grail" Status: For decades, "You're My Main Squeeze" was the ultimate status symbol for high-end soul collectors. Owning an original meant you were at the very top of the "rare soul" food chain. 2. The Chicago Connection Crystal Motion was a Chicago-based group, and you can hear the "Windy City" influence in their sound—a mix of the grit of Chess Records and the sophistication of Curtis Mayfield’s Curtom label. The Fact: The track was produced by Jeremiah "Jerry" Griffin, a man deeply embedded in the independent Chicago soul network. His "minimalist but effective" production style is what makes the record sound so modern even today. 3. The "Two-Sided" 45 Unlike the original 1975 release, which featured "You're My Main Squeeze" Part 1 and Part 2, the EXS004 release is often prized because it pairs the hit with the equally rare "(It's) Wonderful." The Difference: By including both essential tracks on one 7-inch, Expansion created a "Double-Sider" that actually offers more value to a working DJ than the original 1975 single. 4. The 2018 "Blue Label" Series EXS004 was one of the cornerstone releases of the Expansion EXS series, which focused on officially licensing the world's rarest soul records. The Scarcity: While not as rare as the original, the EXS004 pressing sold out its initial run almost instantly. Market Value: Even this reissue has started to appreciate. Mint copies of the Expansion 7-inch already trade for £25–£40, as it is recognized as the definitive "legal" way to own the track. Technical Specs for Collectors Mastering: Expansion went back to the original Sound City master tapes. The 45 RPM cut is noted for its incredible "headroom"—the vocals are crystal clear and the bass doesn't distort, even when played at high volume in a club. The Label: The record features a beautiful recreation of the Sound City "Script" label design, ensuring that it looks just as good as it sounds on your turntable. Collector's Tip: "You're My Main Squeeze" is a "steppers" favorite. Its tempo is perfect for the smooth, synchronized dancing found at Modern Soul weekenders. If you are playing a set that includes The Jones Girls or The Emotions, this record will slide in perfectly.