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O.A.R. Album: “Stories of a Stranger”
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Stories of a Stranger |
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Release Date:2005-10-04
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Type:Unknown
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Genre:Rock
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Label:Lava
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Explicit Lyrics:No
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UPC:075679410962
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Review - :
{$O.A.R.} leapt to the majors in 2003 with {^In Between Now and Then}, but the move didn't change their longstanding commitment to touring. The live show built their audience and crafted their sound; why would {@Atlantic}'s logo on their record change that? Ultimately, 2005's {^Stories of a Stranger} doesn't change {$O.A.R.}'s organic, homespun approach to {\pop}, either. But it definitely refines it along the way, bringing the Maryland combo firmly into the {\adult alternative} fold. Live, these songs will still have potential for {\jam band} elasticity. But on {^Stories} they're tightly wound, showing off {$Marc Roberge}'s dry vocal and urgent turns of melody. {&"Heard the World,"} {&"Daylight the Dog,"} and {&"Love and Memories"} are full of guitar and yearning, like a less self-righteous {$Switchfoot} or wordier {$Goo Goo Dolls}. {&"Memories"} in particular is a departure for {$O.A.R.} -- co-written by {$Roberge} with hired gun {$Glen Ballard}, it amplifies every part of the band's sound, nearly guaranteeing a radio hit. There's quieter material here -- {$Jerry DePizzo}'s saxophone shines in the languid {&"Nasim Joon"} -- and the band's knack for light and breezy island-flavored {\pop} breathes in {&"Lay Down,"} {&"One Shot,"} {&"Program Director,"} and the irresistible {&"Wonderful Day."} And yet it's the slick, gently insistent {&"The Stranger"} (with backing vocals from {$Toby Lightman}) that feels more representative of {^Stories of a Stranger}. It's clear that {$Roberge} is moving toward songs that will tell a story, make you smile, or make you think, but also have real appeal for casual listeners. There's nothing wrong with that -- {$O.A.R.} proved their live mettle a long time ago, and they remain curious, crafty songwriters. {^Stories of a Stranger} just presents everything that defines {$O.A.R.} in a more concise package. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide
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