Enchantment ~ It's You That I Need (1977)

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review by Craig Lytle

With Enchantment still riding high on the strength of their self-titled debut album, Once Upon a Dream spawned some soul classics, including the number one single "It's You that I Need." With a percussive introduction complemented by a mesmerizing string and horn ensemble, Joe Thomas' falsetto cries out a mournful lyric just shy of a whisper, which slowly transcends to urgent appeals. The song's vamp entails each member of the group; Mickey Clanton carries the bottom with his agile bass while other members exchange lyrics, and E.J. Johnson takes the song home with his improvising, roaring tenor. The second single was "If You're Ready (Here It Comes)," featuring a plucking bassline layered on a funky rhythm track. Led by E.J. Johnson's uncompromising vocals, the song also showcases an impressive, percussive interlude. With the exception of "It's You That I Need," every other number here is led by Johnson's overwhelming tenor -- including "Trying to Get Over (With You)," "Angel in My Life," and the masterpiece, "Silly Love Song." The former and latter of the three songs were both penned by Johnson, whose creative nature is reflected in his lyrics and his superior vocal articulation on all the other tracks. Defying the odds against it due to disco, this album was certified gold by RIAA.



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