Formed in 1974, the group was originally known as Gypsy, performing original material as well as covers. But inspired by the sound of contemporary disco, the New York City-based band Mantus became a favorite among clubgoers at the peak of the disco era.
In 1978 they issued their debut single "Turn Around, Boogie Down"; its follow-up, "(Dance It) Freestyle Rhythm," was a major New York radio hit. The quartet's debut LP Midnight Energy appeared in 1979, and the single "Rock It to the Top" became a Top Ten hit on the club charts; a self-titled 1980 follow-up also generated a hit in "Boogie to the Bop," but as disco extinguished
In 1978 they issued their debut single "Turn Around, Boogie Down"; its follow-up, "(Dance It) Freestyle Rhythm," was a major New York radio hit. The quartet's debut LP Midnight Energy appeared in 1979, and the single "Rock It to the Top" became a Top Ten hit on the club charts; a self-titled 1980 follow-up also generated a hit in "Boogie to the Bop," but as disco extinguished
