Second Cup Cafe: O.A.R.
Like the sophisticated simplicity of their band name, O.A.R. ("Of A Revolution") likes to keep it simple on stage not by being an act, but by being the real deal - quite a revoluntionary concept!
Inspired by the legendary Pearl Jam, O.A.R.'s members don't forget their roots, or their middle and high school days jamming inside a dusty old basement in Maryland.
The band, made up of lyricist Marc Roberge, guitarist Richard On, drummer Chris Culos, bassist Benj Gershman and saxophonist Jerry DePizzo, stopped by The Early's Show's "Second Cup Café" Saturday to sing songs off of their new album. "All Sides."
With relatable tunes, a down-to-earth feel and a mix of genres brought forth to their new album, O.A.R. wants their songs to provide an escape.
"The thing is, O.A.R. has never been just one style. From song-to-song, we like to switch it up," Roberge says on the band's official Web site. "Maybe, in the past, we had felt the need to explore just one of those musical alleys and see where it took us. This album is all about recording a variety of experiences with a variety of sounds. Essentially, all sides of O.A.R."
Dubbed "one of the best live bands on the planet," O.A.R. has a cult-like following, making them a must-see.
While making "All Sides," O.A.R. teamed with producer Mat Wallace (Maroon 5, Faith No More, the Replacements) to nail down their best tracks.
O.A.R.'s "War Song" shows a more raw and vulnerable side of the band, because it written after their USO tour of Kuwait and Iraq last August.
While on unstable grounds, they witnessed the war firsthand, seeing medics and soldiers in action, saving the lives of the wounded.
It's been a life-altering journey for O.A.R., and they've managed to capture their transformation through their music.
"Right now, on this day, 'All Sides' represents where we are as a band and how far we have come," Roberge said. "It makes me love playing music for a living, writing songs, and driving across the country with my best friends."
By Melissa Castellanos