Crackin' (1977)

I retroactively discovered Crackin' a few years back through the later solo work of their fabulous singer, Leslie Smith - in particular, his 1982 album, Heartache, which I highly recommend. In Crackin', Smith's voice isn't the only star, he's joined in the band by a few familiar names, most notably producer Michael Omartian, singer/keyboardist Lester Abrams, drummer Peter Bunetta, and bassist Rick Chudacoff. 

The music is a pleasant blend of soft rock, R&B, and at times, disco. Billboard compared the sound to Earth, Wind & Fire and that's definitely there, but depending on the songwriters, I'm also reminded of Pablo Cruise and Doobie Brothers (a group they opened for in early 1977). Anyway, you get the point. With a 35 minute playing time, it's easy to enjoy the whole thing in one gulp.

Press of the time:

• CashBox: "Crackin' has further refined its own interesting blend of rock and R&B styles."
• Billboard: "A lively collection of soul and jazz rock compositions with an Earth, Wind & Fire feel to it."

Only 11 years old at the time, I was living in Odessa at the time of the 10/26 show.
No concerts beyond Up With People for young impressionable Mark, though.

Peak on the US Billboard Top 200 chart: Did not chart

Tracks: The single released from the album was track 6, Don't You Wish You Could Be There. It didn't see any Billboard chart action, but that doesn't mean it doesn't groove in a funky-yachty-disco way. Other top picks include It Just Takes A While, I Know You Can, You Know Where I Am, and The World's A Fool For You.

Personal Memory Associated with this CD: None