# The Intruders – Energy of Love
The Intruders were a Philadelphia-based vocal group who had already established themselves as significant figures in soul music before this 1974 release. Known for their smooth harmonies and emotional delivery, the group had built a strong reputation throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s with a series of well-crafted soul records. By the time Energy of Love arrived on Philadelphia International Records in 1974, the group was well-positioned to capitalize on the evolving sounds of mid-seventies soul and funk.
Energy of Love represents the group during a pivotal moment in soul music history. The mid-1970s saw soul artists embracing funkier rhythms, disco influences, and more contemporary production techniques. The album captures this transitional period perfectly, blending the group's traditional soul roots with the emerging disco and funk sounds that were beginning to dominate the charts. Philadelphia International Records, the label behind this release, was instrumental in shaping the sound of Philadelphia soul during this era, and The Intruders benefited greatly from the label's sophisticated production values and session musicians.
The album opens with its title track, Energy of Love, a vibrant three-minute funk-soul number that sets an energetic tone. A cover of Rainy Days and Mondays shows the group tackling a more introspective piece, stretching it to over six minutes with lush arrangements that showcase their vocal prowess. Be Thankful For What You Got is a standout moment that delivers an uplifting message wrapped in infectious grooves and tight harmonies.
The flip side maintains strong momentum with What's Easy For Two Is So Hard For One and Lonely Lonely providing intimate soul balladry, while Everyone's A Star showcases the group's ability to handle extended arrangements with genuine warmth and personality. Plain Ol' Fashioned Girl offers a lighter, more playful touch, and the album closes with Be On Time, nearly five minutes of smooth funk that demonstrates how well the group adapted to contemporary production styles.
Throughout Energy of Love, The Intruders demonstrate remarkable versatility, moving confidently between funk, soul, and disco influences while maintaining their distinctive vocal identity. The album stands as an accomplished example of Philadelphia soul's evolution during the mid-seventies, capturing a group at ease with both their classic soul heritage and the exciting new directions music was taking.
