IT’S YOU AND ONLY YOU…

First 7” 2023 release from the always reliable SOUL JUNCTION RECORDS pairs two tracks from ENERGY MC 2. Label collectors will know that SJ previously issued a single on the band (yes, they are named after Einstein’s Theory Of Relativity) back in 2016. We learned that the Detroit outfit had their origins in a group called Congressional Funk who later merged with Mad Dog and the Pups, a band that recorded for Magic City. Then, after working with a subtle name change as the Soulful Hounds they became Energy. That had been the name of band that newly recruited bass player, Ben Adkins, had worked with but soon possible litigation with a band of the same name meant our “Energy” added the ”MC2!”

With  the new name and a  line-up of Vincent Bonham, Ufumo Akill-Wallace, Arnell Carmichael, Ernesto Wilson, Marlene Rice, Marvin Carlton, Leon Lopez, Eric Wallace, Gordon Carlton and Opelton Parker (guitarist Ray’s brother), Energy MC2 went after fame and fortune via their deal with Magic City. Two Magic City tracks made up the last Energy MC Soul Junction single, ‘If You Break It’ and ‘Other Side Of The Mirror’

A move to Atlanta GA, saw  Energy MC2 sign with The Greer Agency who also represented, The Commodores, Brass Construction, Mother’s Finest, New Birth, Brick and Little Richard and the agency’s high profile brought the band plenty of work.  Then in 1974 several members of Energy MC2  took a road trip to Los Angeles. Whilst there  Vincent Bonham, Ufuoma Akil-Wallace, Arnell Carmichael, Ernestro Wilson, Opelton Parker, Eric Wallace, Gordon and Marvin Carlton joined  guitarist Ray Parker Jr in a recording session that produced several tracks  including  a sweet and lovely ‘You And Only You’ and ‘Love To Make Love To You’ which now surface on the brand new Soul Junction 7”.

Both previously unissued  ‘You And Only You’ is mellifluous, harmonic  and brassy with all the characteristic charm of mid 70s soul. ‘Love To Make Love To You’, as the title implies, is a little more gentle – not quite a ballad  but dreamy and romantic with lovely harmonies. Interestingly both songs were written and arranged by Ray Parker and are released with his full agreement – another great addition to the Soul Junction catalogue.

The single is released on February 6th and you can find out more and learn everything you need to know about Energy MC2 @ https://www.souljunctionrecords.co.uk/SJ549.html

Tags: