O.A.R.'s second release,
Souls Aflame, picks up where their debut album,
The Wanderer, left off with one major difference, the addition of
Jerry DePizzo's saxophone. Songs like "City on Down," "Night Shift," and "Hey Girl" continue the
O.A.R. tradition of upbeat good-time party music with
DePizzo's sax adding depth and diversity, allowing the band to further develop its sound. There is also evidence that the band is evolving -- "When Can I Go Home," "So Moved On," and "I Feel Home" depict a lyrical and musical progression that is more introspective and heartfelt than any track on the first album. These contradictory styles give the upbeat songs more punch and the slower tracks an even greater emotional charge.
O.A.R. have successfully avoided the sophomore jinx by illustrating the ability to progress as a band rather than merely repackage their debut effort. ~ Erik Crawford