After ten years of developing their style, sound and image, the Detroit quintet Enchantment was well prepared for the release of their self-titled debut album. Polished with superb background vocals arranged by Emanuel "E.J." Johnson, the LP is seasoned with string and horn arrangements. With disco controlling the charts, it was only appropriate that the first release be an up-tempo number to fit that format. "Come on and Ride" surges forward with a locomotive rhythm while E.J. Johnson's soulful lead tenor exerts pure vocal power. The second single from the album, "Gloria," provided a platform for Johnson to extend his soaring tenor right from the song's inception, and as the melody builds so does hisdelivery. The compassionate single topped the charts after a healthy 24 weeks, and also reached number 25 on the pop charts. The third single was "Sunshine," which utilizes the lead vocals of Joe Thomas as well as Johnson. As Thomas introduces the lyric of each verse with his mild, inquisitive vocals, Johnson's thundering tone sends the listener reeling. The album was written and arranged, in its entirety, by E.J. Johnson and Michael Stokes. Songs like the romantic "My Rose" (led by Thomas and Johnson) and the funky, upbeat "Dance to the Music" (led by Dave Banks) were never singles, but they still receive airplay in their respective radio formats. With the exception of the two aforementioned songs and "Sunshine," Johnson showcases his lead vocal talent on all the other outstanding numbers with his dynamic range.
© Craig Lytle /TiVo