(September 17, 2023) From 1976 until 1987, the Philadelphia-based Fat Larry’s Band graced the R&B and Dance music worlds with many hits, from their remake of David Bowie’s “Fascination” to “Act Like You Know” as well as their best selling single in the UK, “Zoom” (penned by Philly legends Len Barry and MFSB’s Bobby Eli). The 1987 sudden passing of band leader/drummer “Fat” Larry James of a heart attack at the age of 38 resulted in the dissolution of the group.
(September 17, 2023) From 1976 until 1987, the Philadelphia-based Fat Larry’s Band graced the R&B and Dance music worlds with many hits, from their remake of David Bowie’s “Fascination” to “Act Like You Know” as well as their best selling single in the UK, “Zoom” (penned by Philly legends Len Barry and MFSB’s Bobby Eli). The 1987 sudden passing of band leader/drummer “Fat” Larry James of a heart attack at the age of 38 resulted in the dissolution of the group.
Fast forward to today, Fat Larry Band’s co-founding member Jimmy Lee along with the group’s longtime lead vocalist Art Austin have teamed up with vocalists Dr. Salaam Love and Carl Gray to bring this legendary group’s classic tunes into the 21st century. Teaming up with veteran producer Butch Ingram (from the mighty musical family dynasty which included his brothers as well as the late Sweetheart Of Sigma, Barbara Ingram), the quartet has released an updated version of their early 1980’s dance/soul classic, “Can’t Keep My Hands To Myself”.
Now, when artists re-record their works, the results can be hit or an absolute miss. The quartet actually does a fine job with the tune. While the original does have the funkiness one would expect from a seven-piece R&B/soul band, the updated “Can’t Keep…” is well suited for today’s times. The arrangement is smoother, more keyboard-driven and glides quite nicely. The foursome’s singing is as strong and solid with fine harmonies and a great lead vocal from Austin.
For those not familiar with the original “Can’t Keep My Hands To Myself”, this update is a wonderful treat. As for many who’ve heard the 1980 version back in the day like yours truly, I say give this new version a chance and listen without prejudice. In a landscape where the number of soul and pop music veterans are dwindling (rest in peace Larry James and group vocalist Freddie Campbell, songwriters Bobby Eli and Len Barry), this incarnation of the Fat Larry’s Band is a welcome sight and treat to the ears.
By Kevin Goins
Fat Larry's Band
"Can’t Keep My Hands To Myself”