The System
The System is an American synth-pop duo that emerged in the 1980s, captivating audiences with their unique blend of electronic and funk music. The group consists of vocalist and guitarist Mic Murphy and keyboardist David Frank, both of whom have made significant contributions to the genre.
Mic Murphy, born in the United States, was the prominent frontman of the duo, showcasing his strong vocal abilities and engaging stage presence. David Frank, a seasoned session keyboardist, brought his extensive musical experience to the partnership, helping to shape the distinctive sound of The System.
The duo gained recognition for their innovative approach to music, combining elements of funk, electronic sounds, and urban rhythms. They were influenced by the burgeoning genres of electro and hip-hop, which were starting to gain traction in the music scene during the early 1980s. This sound was part of a broader movement in which Boston Funk and other influences played a role in developing the sonic aesthetics that were popular at the time.
The System's music was characterized by catchy hooks, upbeat rhythms, and synthesizer-driven melodies, making them a staple on the dance charts. Their notable hits include tracks that resonated well within the club scene and contributed to the rise of electronic dance music.
Throughout their career, The System became known not only for their original compositions but also for their contributions to remixing and producing tracks for other artists, further solidifying their place in the music industry.
While their prominence waned by the late 1980s with the shifting musical landscape, The System remains recognized for their pioneering role in the electronic funk genre and their influence on future artists within the realm of synth-pop and dance music.
The Pleasure Seekers
Vocals – Audrey Wheeler 4:39
A2 It Takes 2 4:12
A3 Big City Beat 3:25
A4 Love Won't Wait For Lovin'
Written-By – Paul Pesco 4:47
B1 This Is For You 4:57
B2 My Radio Rocks
Vocals – Denise Chaplin 3:43
B3 Did In By A Friend 3:11
B4 I Don't Run From Danger 4:45
Producer, Written, and Arranged by David Frank & Mic Murphy
Label: Mirage – 90281-1
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1985
Genre: R&B Soul, Electronic Funk
Style: Synth-pop, Disco
The Pleasure Seekers is the third studio album by the synth-pop and electronic funk duo The System, consisting of Mic Murphy and David Frank.
The album is characterized by its distinctive mid-80s blend of electro-funk, synth-pop, and soul. Produced, written, and arranged by Murphy and Frank, the record utilizes heavy electronic textures and "technological trickery" that pushed contemporary pop boundaries. Notable contributors include guitarist Paul Pesco and percussionist Jimmy Maelen.
Key Tracks:
"The Pleasure Seekers": The title track and a major single featuring guest vocals from Audrey Wheeler. It is described as a complex electronic track more suitable for listening than dancing.
"This Is for You": A commercially successful single regarded as a classic "soul dancer" with a strong groove.
"It Takes 2": Highlighted by critics as a standout track and a perfect example of the duo's cohesive sound.
"I Don't Run From Danger": The album's closer, known for its nervous, jittery electro-funk energy.
The album reached the Billboard R&B Albums chart in 1985. Retrospective reviews often describe it as a "strong, cohesive record" that captures the peak of the synth-pop revolution, though some critics feel it lacks consistency across its entire length compared to their biggest hits.
The production is clean and polished, with layered synths and strong vocals, even if some tracks feel a bit dated now.