O.A.R.

King

[Wind-up]

O.A.R.’s seventh album showcases a self-assured band at the height of its creative powers. Frontman Marc Roberge and company offer up a healthy dose of kinetic reggae grooves, with bright splashes of horns and other colorations. Longtime fans will welcome the return of the Wanderer, the fictional narrator of their early work, on the opening title track. The bouncy acoustic opening of “Taking on the World Today” conveys a bright summery feel, while the infectious romp “Are You Low?” wouldn’t sound out of place on a Maroon 5 album. “Dangerous Connection,” an instantly catchy tune written with Andrew McMahon of Jack’s Mannequin, likewise pulsates with an infectious Latin-flavored beat. Throughout King, the members of O.A.R. demonstrate that they’ve learned valuable lessons in pop craftsmanship in addition to solid musicianship—not to mention the rare ability to make you ponder and pogo all at once. –Bob Cannon