How Much Can You Take

The song "How Much Can You Take" by A Foot in Coldwater from their 1974 album All Around Us is a lesser-known gem in the Canadian rock scene, but it carries the band’s signature blend of emotive vocals and gritty guitar work. According to fan discussions on platforms like Rate Your Music, the track stands out for its raw energy and introspective lyrics, which ask, “How much can you take?” in a way that feels both personal and universal. While no direct interviews about this specific song have surfaced recently, fans on Last.fm have noted its driving rhythm and Paul Naumann’s searing guitar riffs as highlights, making it a favorite for Zoo Freaks tuning into THE ZOO’s eclectic spins. The song’s inclusion on the All Around Us album, which was the band’s American debut on Elektra Records, gave it a wider reach, though it didn’t chart as high as their hit “(Make Me Do) Anything You Want.”

One piece of trivia about “How Much Can You Take” is its context within the All Around Us album, which mixed new tracks with re-recordings of earlier songs. As noted on Amazon.ca, the album showcases the band’s “quiet fire,” with the song’s intense delivery reflecting their live performance energy. Fans on YouTube comment sections have shared stories of hearing the track on Canadian radio in the ‘70s, with one user recalling how it was a staple at local Toronto rock venues where A Foot in Coldwater played to packed crowds. The song’s lyrics, available on Genius, evoke a sense of resilience, which resonated with the band’s loyal following during a turbulent era for rock music.

A Foot in Coldwater formed in Toronto in 1970, born from the ashes of three local bands: Nucleus, Lords of London, and Island. The original lineup—vocalist Alex Machin, guitarist Paul Naumann, bassist/vocalist Hughie Leggat, keyboardist Bob Horne, and drummer Danny Taylor—came together under the guidance of Frank Davies at Daffodil Records. According to their AllMusic bio, the band’s name was coined by Davies, and their chemistry clicked immediately, leading to a recording contract. Their debut album in 1972, featuring the hit “(Make Me Do) Anything You Want,” put them on the map, reaching the top 25 in Canada and later earning a spot in the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2019. The band’s early years were marked by relentless touring and a reputation for powerful live shows, as detailed on Wikipedia, which helped them build a dedicated fanbase.

Unfortunately, A Foot in Coldwater does not maintain an active official website or verified social media presence today, likely due to their dissolution in 1977 and sporadic reunions. No official Facebook, Instagram, or X accounts for the band could be found, reflecting their era predating modern social media. However, fans keep their legacy alive through platforms like Facebook groups dedicated to Canadian classic rock, where A Foot in Coldwater is frequently discussed, and on Last.fm, where listeners share their music. Fan-driven content on Rate Your Music also serves as a hub for enthusiasts, with reviews praising the band’s unique sound. For Zoo Crew DJs and their Zoo Freaks, spinning “How Much Can You Take” is a nod to a band that, while not globally famous, left an indelible mark on Canadian rock history.