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O.A.R. – In Between Now And Then

While O.A.R.'s origins trace back to Rockville, Maryland, it was their shared decision to attend The Ohio State University in 1997 that helped propel them onto a larger stage. Their time in Columbus helped shape their identity, providing the foundation and launching pad for their career. In Between Now And Then, their fourth studio album, released in 2003, represents a milestone that solidified their transition from Columbus favorites to a band with nationwide reach.


Lava, Everfine Records – 83622-2

2003

Front cover of O.A.R.'s In Between Now And Then

Singer/songwriter Marc Roberge formed a band with childhood friends Chris Culos on drums and guitarist Richard On. They began playing as Exposed Youth in middle school before Benj Gershman from a year below joined on bass and they changed their name to Of A Revolution (O.A.R.).


O.A.R. promo photo

In the fall of 1997, already having recorded their first album, they moved to Columbus to attend Ohio State and began steady gigging. They met fellow student Jerry DePizzo, a saxophonist from Youngstown, and the O.A.R. lineup that remains to this day was complete.


Before major labels came calling, O.A.R. honed their distinctive blend of rock, reggae, and jam-band influences in Columbus, cultivating a devoted following through live performances at frat parties, campus bars like the North Heidelberg, and eventually larger venues like the Newport Music Hall. Roberge's brother, Dave, managed the group.


The city’s vibrant college scene, combined with the rise of Napster, played a crucial role in their growth. “Sophomore year was the best year of our lives,” Roberge told The Lantern in 2004. “We were living in Morrill Tower and were going through a lot of issues because of being away (from home).” By fostering a dedicated community of fans willing to spread their music, O.A.R. positioned themselves as pioneers of the digital era—wisely embracing taping and trading policies that allowed audiences to organically circulate live performances.

An O.A.R. article from the March 8, 2001 Lantern
The Lantern - March 8, 2001

O.A.R.'s Columbus roots run deep, even if their songwriting tended to reflect their Maryland heritage more than their adopted home. That changed when lead singer Marc Roberge’s girlfriend called him out for his lack of Ohio-centric lyrics, prompting him to pen "Road Outside Columbus"—a track that name-checks local landmarks while nodding to the emotional weight of his time at OSU.


Rear inside tray photo of O.A.R. from the In Between Now And Then CD

By the early 2000s, O.A.R. had outgrown their collegiate circuit and were ready for their next step. Recognizing their fan-first approach, several record labels pursued them, but the band took an unconventional path, involving their followers in the decision-making process. Their ultimate choice, Lava Records, provided the right balance—an imprint that had the power of Atlantic Records’ distribution while still operating with an independent ethos.


Released on May 27, 2003, In Between Now And Then was a culmination of years spent refining their sound and building a loyal audience. The album performed well commercially, debuting at #54 on the Billboard 200, with "Hey Girl" becoming their breakout radio hit. The single’s success on Billboard’s Adult Pop Airplay chart signaled O.A.R.’s move toward a broader, mainstream audience. The album’s standout, "Right On Time," features a killer guitar riff and was co-written with Columbus stalwart Andy Harrison, (Howlin’ Maggie, The Everlasting Happiness, etc.) who worked as a guitar tech for O.A.R. at the time.

Announcement of O.A.R. signing to Lava Records, Billboard February 22, 2003
Billboard - February 22, 2003

Although O.A.R. is fundamentally a Maryland band, their relationship with Columbus remains strong. Saxophonist Jerry DePizzo still calls the city home, and the band regularly returns, whether it’s for headline performances or special events. Recently, the Blue Jackets tapped them to play at St. John Arena before a major Stadium Series game—a testament to the national perception of the band's ties to Columbus.

In Between Now And Then CD

With a headlining slot at Pelotonia’s opening ceremony this August, O.A.R.’s journey continues to circle back to the place where they became more than just childhood friends with instruments—they became a family. Through constant touring, savvy engagement with their fans, and an ability to evolve while staying true to their roots, their road keeps leading back to Columbus.


Tracklist

1 Now

O.A.R. promo photo 2002

Music By – Andy Harrison, John Alagia

Music By – John Alagia

15 Then

CMJ - March 17, 2003
CMJ - March 17, 2003

Companies, etc.
CMJ - March 17, 2003
CMJ - March 17, 2003

Credits
O.A.R. "Hey Girl" CD single


  • Backing Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Hammond, Wurlitzer, Tambourine, Bongos, Maracas, Ebo – John Alagia

  • Backing Vocals, Hammond, Piano, Tack Piano – Gabe Dixon

  • Backing Vocals – Jonathan Rice


Billboard - June 7, 2003 In Between Now And Then review



Part 2 of June 7, 2003 Billboard review
Billboard - June 7, 2003

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