Deep Grooves from Philly’s United Image

United Image “The African Bump” (Branding Iron, 1972 / 1973?)

Today’s 45 is one of those terrifying finds when you’re out digging.  EVERYTHING suggests this is going to an amazing record so your mind is given license to run wild with the potential this tiny platter holds.  I’ve been sorely disappointed a number of times playing these type of speculative games but boy did this little dude deliver!

Branding Iron was the boutique label of Philadelphia mainstay Jesse James (he of The Horse and Boogaloo Down Broadway fame) which has a pretty limited release history.  Furthering the JJ branding (as depicted on the label!) on this release, these two tracks were recorded at James’ very own Future Gold Studios.

The United Image was a typical working group in the Philadelphia area, lots of local gigs leading up to a break through a DJ associate.  After releasing one single on Stax, Love’s Creeping Up On Me, things were looking good for the group and they began working with Bunny Sigler in Philadelphia on a full length release for the label but the project got shelved, presumably because of the well documented financial woes Stax ran into in the early 70’s.  Sad to say, as far as I can tell those sides remain in the can somewhere.  Back in Philadelphia without a label the group was approached by Norman Harris who connected them with James to help bring today’s 45 into our world.

With a scratchy grandma style vocal intro a-la The Worm the record starts off with a heavy groove that I would have been perfectly satisfied to let ride for three minutes but The United Image gives the microphone a workout delivering an equally killer vocal performance.  I don’t need to explain the record in detail, just listen.

After United Image the four later went on to change their name to Double Exposure and sign with Salsoul.  Working with a number of the Philly heavyweights in the Disco scene the scored a hit with the tune “Ten Percent.”

Hope you enjoyed today’s 45.  Ready for spring and flea market season to begin!

-George / Snack Attack

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