Stories of a Stranger (Deluxe Version)

iTunes Review

The latest step toward maturity for this Ohio state jam band means reigning in the loose instrumental ends and playing servant to the song. While writing a song (“Love and Memories”) with hired-gun Glen Ballard that sounds nearly like an early ‘80s new wave hit should mildly alarm the jam-band faithful, it’s only one minor misstep on an album that shows the band’s overall desire to avoid being pigeonholed. Fact is, O.A.R. (that’s “of a revolution,” by the way) have plenty of unforced “pop” in them. “Wonderful Day,” “Lay Down,” and “Program Director” are bouncy sprints of positivity styled with vague reggae grooves. “The Stranger” is a polished middle-of-the-road rocker. “Nasim Joon” would be a power-ballad in more bombastic hands. Here, it’s a reflective croon for singer Marc Roberge and an opening for saxophonist Jerry DePizzo to get some playing time. In the end, they’re not up for much of a “revolution,” unless you consider playing toward greater convention a subversive act.