Saturday, February 04, 2006

Better Than the Dave Matthews Band: Maryland's Own O.A.R.

Yes... quite a blasphemous and crazy thing to say, don't you think?

Well, this particular Maryland kid has been saying just that for about 4 years now, and the claims of grandeur have been finally justified in the form of a mainstream breakthrough, which was inevitable.

Forming near Rockville, MD, the founding members of O.A.R. all attended Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. At OSU, they picked up the sax player that was to give them their signature sound, which, along with a raggae-dominated approach and a party-like mood to their songs and lyrics, continues to define the band to this day. The band started out as the ultimate frat band, but has evolved into a touring force with a sterling, hard-earned reputation for a kickin' live show and solid major studio releases (2 thus far).

Hard work and determination have paid off after years of blood, sweat, and tears, and these Maryland boys have conquered all the major rock hotspots in order to become successful: New York City, California, the Midwest, Boston, Philadelphia, and, of course, their own backyard in the NOVA/DC/MD corridor.

Top 11 O.A.R. Songs

1. That Was a Crazy Game of Poker
2. Black Rock
3. 52-50
4. Hey Girl (NOT any of the studio versions, only the live versions)
5. City on Down
6. Dareh Meyod
7. Trajedy in Waiting (early live version)
8. Program Director
9. Night Shift
10. Road Outside Columbus
11. Old Man Time

much more to come, including MP3's