ALARKO is the musical vision of singer, songwriter, producer, and founding member Larry Kovarik. The band’s name was created by combining portions of Larry’s first and last name, resulting in a distinctive identity that reflects the originality at the heart of the music.

After more than 30 years of songwriting and years spent performing cover music throughout his hometown of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Kovarik ultimately discovered his true creative voice through writing, recording, and producing his own original material. His extensive musical background exposed him to countless styles and influences, helping shape the genre-blending approach that defines ALARKO today.

While Kovarik cites artists such as Lenny Kravitz, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Jude Cole, and Linkin Park among his influences, he believes creativity should never be confined by genre boundaries. That philosophy fuels ALARKO’s sound—a unique fusion of Rock, R&B, Rap, Pop, and Funk that allows each song to develop naturally from inspiration rather than expectation.

What began as a solo project took an unexpected turn during a chance conversation with bassist Wayne Moore while attending a performance by local Iowa band Mt. Rockmore. A discussion about songwriting quickly evolved into a musical collaboration. Shortly afterward, Kovarik invited Moore into the studio to record bass on one of his songs. Having previously performed all of the bass parts himself, Kovarik immediately recognized the creative value that Moore brought to the music.

“Sometimes Moore is better,” Kovarik jokes.

The chemistry was undeniable, and Moore soon became an official part of the project. Since 2024, ALARKO has operated as a dual-songwriting partnership built on collaboration, trust, and a shared passion for creating memorable rock music.

Today, ALARKO continues to write, record, and release music driven by artistic freedom rather than commercial formulas. Their songs are designed to take listeners on a musical journey, blending genres, moods, and influences into a sound that is both familiar and uniquely their own.

If you’re a fan of artists such as Kid Rock, Lenny Kravitz, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Linkin Park, or Maroon 5, you may find yourself drawn to the genre-defying rock fusion of ALARKO.