MUSIC LIVE

Of any band that could have come to Michigan State, O.A.R. (or “Of A Revolution”) was the perfect pick for this winter season. This great underground drinking quintet, who are trying to sneak their way into the mainstream of the American Music Scene, hit concert gold. And I happened to be on the floor five rows back for this amazing display of musicianship.

O.A.R. has an extremely deep and devout fan base and most of them absolutely hate their new “hit” single “Love and Memories.” By the look on vocalist Marc Roberge’s face while he was singing, it looks like he and the rest of the band dislike the song as well. “Love and Memories” was first on the set list, but everything after it was great

The show included tunes from their new album “Stories of a Stranger” as well as some of their first recordings as a band. Highlights of the Breslin show were old songs like “I Feel Home,” not often played in concert. The older song is a ballad giving thanks to a feeling of home that hanging out with their “original crew” gives them.

Other great moments came just before the encore performance when O.A.R. shocked everyone by playing “That was a Crazy Game of Poker,” one of the band’s most popular songs that often finishes a show. Another song often used to finish a gig, “Anyway,” was played right before “Crazy Game of Poker” adding to the energy in the stadium.

Each song was different from their twin studio recordings. Marc Roberge added lyrics to most songs and band members played sensational new solos - from the saxophonist Jerry DePizzo to Marc Roberge’s “best friend,” the drummer Christ Culos.

This concert was a spectacular blend of new songs, old songs and covers of O.A.R.’s favorites. Each song started with an original introduction, leaving the audience guessing what would come next. Alcohol, as always, enhanced the experience, since most, if not all, of the people there were under the influence.

Even with the speed bump of a song “Love and Memories,” Of a Revolution still knows how to put on one hell of a performance. Anyone who was not in the Breslin Friday the 17 th should be jealous of the fans that were.