Stories of a Stranger (Deluxe Version)

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.