Impact
Impact was an American soul group from Philadelphia, active primarily in the 1970s. They gained recognition for their smooth harmonies and R&B-infused sound during the era's soul music scene.
The group originally emerged as the Young Tempts on the Isley Brothers' T-Neck label before rebranding as Impact around 1969. Core members included Damon Harris (lead vocals), John Quinton Simms (vocals), Charles Timmons (vocals), and Donald Tighman (vocals). They built a local following in Philadelphia's vibrant soul circuit, blending gospel roots with contemporary R&B.
Impact released singles and albums through the 1970s, showcasing their tight vocal arrangements on labels like Philadelphia International. Their music captured the essence of Philly soul, though they never achieved major mainstream hits like contemporaries such as the O'Jays. The group disbanded around 1977 after a series of recordings that highlighted their potential in the competitive soul landscape.
Members like Damon Harris later pursued solo paths or joined other acts, contributing to soul's enduring Philly legacy. Impact remains a noted footnote in soul history for their raw talent and regional impact.
Impact
Lead Vocals – Damon Otis Harris, John Quintin Simms
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Charles Kelly 6:08
A2 Taboo
Lead Vocals – Damon Otis Harris
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Len Barry 4:46
A3 Friends
Lead Vocals – John Quintin Simms
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Terry Collins 3:03
A4 Give A Broken Heart A Break
Lead Vocals – Damon Otis Harris
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Len Barry 5:57
B1 One Last Memory
Lead Vocals – Charles Timmons, Damon Otis Harris
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Len Barry 5:30
B2 Love Attack
Lead Vocals – John Quintin Simms
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Len Barry 3:30
B3 Winning Combination
Lead Vocals – Charles Timmons, Damon Otis Harris, John Quintin Simms
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Phil Hurtt 3:30
B4 Man And Woman
Lead Vocals – Damon Otis Harris
Synthesizer [Moog] – Dexter Wansel
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Vinnie Barrett 4:00
B5 It Only Happens In The Movies
Lead Vocals – Damon Otis Harris, John Quintin Simms
Written-By – Bobby Eli, Lee Philips 3:18
Label: ATCO Records – SD 36-135
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1976
Genre: R&B Soul
Style: Seventies Soul, Philly Soul
The 1976 self-titled album by the soul group Impact is considered an excellent example of mid-1970s Philly Soul and early disco. The album is highly regarded by fans of the genre for its strong material, excellent production, and first-class vocals.
The album features a distinct mid-70s Philly Soul sound with early disco vibes. The use of falsetto vocals throughout much of the album contributes significantly to its disco feel.
The group was assembled by Damon Harris after his departure from The Temptations. His sweet falsetto is a highlight of the record. The material was penned by notable writers like Len Barry, Phil Hurtt, and Bobby Eli, with production also handled by Bobby Eli.
Despite the strong material and production, the album commercially failed to make a significant impact on the charts at the time of its release, leading the label to drop the group. In retrospect, reviewers feel the album deserved greater success and wider recognition for the talented group.
Standout songs mentioned in reviews include the opener "Happy Man", "Taboo", "It Only Happens In The Movies", "Friends", and "Love Attack".
The album is described as a fun, very likeable, and "artistic treasure" that instantly transports the listener back to the best sounds of the 70s. It is a recommended listen for those who appreciate male vocal groups and the classic Philly sound.