Be Somebody - the Crock Pott band featuring Erin Marino

Crock Pott is one of Larry's nicknames. He is affectionately known as Crock, Crock Pott, Rocket, Pocket, Hands and Mr. Sticks. Crock Pott is the name of his first CD as a bandleader. Crock Pott was formed just one week before performing at the Hennessey Best Of Detroit Jazz competition in 1993, for which the band won a $10,000 first prize. That was the beginning of the group comprised of Motown's young and in-demand rhythm section: Daryl Smith on bass, Al McKenzie on keyboards and Larry on drums.

Collectively and separately they worked with everyone from Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, the Four Tops, the Spinners, the Temptations and others. Other original members include Randy Scott on saxophone and Perry Hughes on guitar.

This CD features classic R&B/jazz popular in the black community during Larry's upbringing. The familiarity and joy comes through the music and arrangements—the mixture of soul and jazz—show casing wonderful musicians.

Larry's Baptist church upbringing helped him find the 70-child gospel choir to sing the title track Be Somebody a positive message to youth. This is what Larry is all about—giving back and motivating people to live a more positive life. Private lessons are another way to get this motivational message.

Drummers find plenty. For the full blowout drum solo, check out Cantaloupe Island. Larry's favorite track is a luscious version of Funny How Time Flies by Janet Jackson, featuring Al Mckenzie on piano. It is so smooth and funky that probably it will become your favorite. Featured vocalist Erin Marino shows you why she is considered one of the best in NY on the track Street Life by the Crusaders.

Tap your foot to or relax to these tunes: Be Somebody Ain't No Sunshine This Is It My Baby Loves Me Low Down Morning Papers Streetlife Funny How Time Flies My Cherie Amour Cantaloupe Island I Can't Make You Love Me

You will feel good after listening to this CD. Read more — article by Josh Max of the Aquarian.