Sharing a bit of the past…and some news:

For most of my life, I’ve been an artist (writer, poet, musician), and I’ve always liked the feeling of creative change.

Although I’m the same person, the artist in me is in constant change. She morphs, evolves, remixes herself…and sometimes revisits the inspiration of artistic roots.

My young adult musical roots took place within NYC’s punk rock (and synth-pop) scene.

And with that said…

Back in 1987 VENUS II’s song, OH BOY, was released on Wide Angle-Twin/Tone Records. It’s a dance synth-pop song written by Cathy Harrington and performed by Cathy and me (Venus II). We played five synthesizers (all at the same time). For those interested in gear, we used Korgs (Poly61s and M1s), a Moog, a Sequential Circuits Six Trac and a Roland.

We recorded OH BOY in Minneapolis – where it made it onto the Minneapolis dance charts (twice); aided in part by DJs at First Avenue who placed it on rotation after receiving a favorable nod from Prince.

Fast forward to the present.

New Islands Records has reissued Venus II’s OH BOY. Along with the originals, there are two remixes by NYC’s legendary Justin Strauss.  The release date is September 5th, 2025 (vinyl + digital). 

Cathy Harrington and I (Mary Phillips a/k/a Mary Mac) — collectively known as VENUS II — are thrilled. And grateful for second go-arounds.

Here’s a link to download or purchase the song on vinyl or digital platforms: VENUS II OH BOY – New Islands Records

For those who want to read more about the history of Venus II — and our ties to NYC’s CBGB — here’s a website I’ve just put together: Venus II – backstory.

Anyway, thanks for reading and remember your writing can take on different forms; blessings can come in mysterious ways; and dreams can often come true (sometimes even more than once), like smatterings and spurts of joy across the entirety of our lives.

Stay positive, speak in love, and make art, xo m