Live At The Smith: the band set by Larry Norman Band ftg People!

Reviewed by Tim Holden

An intriguing memento, this one. Original members Gene Mason and Denny Fridkin of People!, those '60s prog rockers who once contained Larry in their line up and whose story was recently meticulously told on the Cross Rhythms website, climb onto a stage with Larry, brother Charles Norman, Silver Sørensen and John Fresk to make some nostalgic music together. The material is largely from People!'s ancient back catalogue and on the whole it works really well. After a bizarre opening monologue from a mailman, the DVD launches into "I Love You" with Larry and Gene sharing the vocal duties and the band providing a very solid backing. With some nice visual cuts that are at all times sympathetic to the feel of the music, the DVD progresses to the stomping climax of "Why Don't You Look Into Jesus" and "Twelve Good Men". Added to this is a bonus selection from the support act, The Severin Sisters. This is seven American roots and bluegrass tracks of a high calibre with sisters Amy and Heidi backed by Larry's band and even joined by Larry on one song. The sisters are highly talented and their music will appeal even to those who are not really into bluegrass. Even with such a vast catalogue to choose from, this memento of Larry and co is well worth investigating.