Forget that old myth about the sophomore slump. With the upcoming release of their second independent album, “Souls Aflame,” local band, …of a revolution (OAR), has proved they are not just a flash-in-the-pan act, but rather a unique new group with a promising future. The band consists of vocalist and rhythm guitarist Marc Roberge, a sophomore majoring in psychology; lead guitarist Richard On, a sophomore majoring in business; drummer Chris Culos, a sophomore majoring in political science; and bass guitarist Benj Gershman, an undecided freshman.In addition to producing CDs and touring around the country, all the members are attending Ohio State full time. One of their goals is to graduate with degrees in their chosen fields, although they would like to continue careers as musicians. “We’re really trying to balance going to school while traveling and playing college campuses,” Roberge said. OAR’s music has been labeled as a type of island-vibe roots rock, Roberge said. Members cite Dave Matthews Band and Bob Marley as major influences.When their first independent album, “The Wanderer,” was released in 1997, the band members were still attending Thomas S. Wootton High School in Rockville, Md. It was an instant success on the high school scene and quickly expanded to include followers of all ages. Graduation sent the foursome on their separate ways. Roberge and Culos moved to Columbus to attend OSU. On went to a community college while Gershman finished high school. It was a difficult situation, though they still planned on playing together.”We couldn’t imagine our lives without the band,” On said.During the end of 1997 and into 1998, Roberge and Culos played a few acoustic shows locally. They were later joined by On, who transferred to OSU in Winter Quarter of 1998. After completing his senior year of high school in 1998, Gershman also decided to come to OSU. The group mostly concentrated on promoting the first album, both at OSU and at other campuses.During the summer of 1998, the group recorded “Souls Aflame.” Although similar to “The Wanderer” in its upbeat grooves and thought-provoking lyrics, this second effort expands on the unique sound of the first record. The addition of a saxophone, played by Jerry Depizzo of the local band Ordinary Peoples, adds a new dimension to the sound. The band has certainly succeeded in creating a more mature sound without losing their edge. “We’ve grown and so has our music,” Culos said.OAR has played at numerous local bars and clubs including Mekka and The Red Zone. This summer they plan to go on tour, playing three to five shows a week, with dates on the East Coast.The foursome work equally hard to ensure that each person who attends an OAR concert comes away with an unforgettable memory. Although both CDs are live studio recordings, only live shows offer the full experience of this one-of-a-kind band. “We like to give the audience a different show every time they come to see us. So for us and them, we make it a point of keeping things fresh,” On said. “It’s never exactly the same,” he said.OAR is playing at the Newport on Friday to celebrate the release of “Souls Aflame.” Doors open at 8 p.m. Tickets are $6 each and can be purchased through Ticketmaster or by contacting the band directly through their web site at www.Planetoar.com.
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