Sometimes – Stories Of A Stranger Sessions
Listen to Sometimes – Stories Of A Stranger Sessions on Spotify. Song · O.A.R. · 2025
In the ever-evolving landscape of rock music, where nostalgia often collides with fresh discoveries, O.A.R. has gifted fans a long-lost treasure from their archives. On September 24, 2025, the multi-platinum band announced the 20th anniversary expanded edition of their landmark 2005 album Stories of a Stranger, and leading the charge is the newly unveiled single “Sometimes (Stories of a Stranger Sessions).” This studio outtake, recorded during the original sessions but shelved for two decades, arrives as a poignant reminder of the band’s golden era, blending introspective lyrics with their signature blend of jam-rock grooves and heartfelt melodies.
For those unfamiliar, O.A.R.—short for Of A Revolution—has been a staple of modern rock since their formation in 1997 at Ohio University. Comprising Marc Roberge on lead vocals and guitar, Richard On on lead guitar and backing vocals, Chris Culos on drums, Benj Gershman on bass, and Jerry DePizzo on saxophone, guitar, and backing vocals, the quintet built a devoted following through relentless touring and anthemic songs that capture the highs and lows of young adulthood. By the mid-2000s, they were on the cusp of mainstream breakthrough, and Stories of a Stranger became the vessel for that ascent.
Released on October 4, 2005, via Everfine and Lava Records, the original album debuted at No. 40 on the Billboard 200 and spawned hits like “Heard the World,” “Lay Down,” and the Gold-certified “Love and Memories.” The latter, co-written with multi-GRAMMY winner Glen Ballard, peaked at No. 98 on the Billboard Pop 100, No. 30 on the Modern Rock Tracks chart, and No. 18 on the Adult Top 40, its soul-baring introspection striking a chord with listeners navigating love’s complexities. AllMusic praised the record as encapsulating “everything that defines O.A.R.,” from its rootsy rhythms to its soaring choruses. It was a turning point, solidifying the band’s reputation for euphoric live shows—think sold-out nights at Madison Square Garden and over a dozen performances at Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Now, 20 years later, Craft Recordings is reissuing Stories of a Stranger (20th Anniversary Edition) on December 5, 2025, as a deluxe double-LP that pairs the remastered original with rare bonus material. The expanded set includes a long-out-of-print EP featuring live renditions of “Heard the World,” “Lay Down,” and fan favorite “About Mr. Brown,” captured on July 22, 2005, at New Jersey’s PNC Bank Arts Center. But the crown jewel is Side D’s closer: “Sometimes,” a previously unreleased studio track from those fateful sessions.
“Sometimes” emerges like a voice from the past, its warm acoustic strums and layered harmonies evoking the album’s vulnerable core. Roberge’s vocals navigate themes of fleeting connections and quiet reflection, delivered with the raw emotion that made tracks like “Love and Memories” timeless. Backed by the band’s tight instrumentation—On’s shimmering guitar lines, DePizzo’s subtle sax flourishes, and Culos’ steady pulse—it feels like an extension of the original record’s spirit, yet fresh enough to resonate in 2025. As an advance single, it’s available now on all streaming platforms, instantly unlockable via presave of the anniversary edition.
Reflecting on the release, DePizzo shared in a statement: “Stories of a Stranger marked a new chapter for our band. To revisit it 20 years later, and to share songs like ‘Sometimes’ as part of this expanded edition, feels like opening a time capsule with our fans.” The timing couldn’t be more serendipitous. With O.A.R.’s 30th anniversary looming in 2026—promising “an action-packed” year of celebrations—the reissue serves as a bridge between eras, honoring the passionate community that’s fueled their career.
Vinyl enthusiasts will delight in the physical formats: a standard black pressing alongside an exclusive “Cloud Swirl” color variant, available only through the band’s official store. Bundles include a commemorative tee, poster, and sticker set, making it a collector’s dream. Indie retailers will stock copies later this year, ensuring broad accessibility.
O.A.R. has always thrived on connection, turning albums into communal experiences through their electrifying performances. “Sometimes” not only revives that magic but invites a new generation to discover it. As the band teases more anniversary surprises, this single stands as a testament to their enduring legacy: music that lingers, like a story half-told, waiting for you to fill in the blanks. Stream it today, presave the edition, and raise a glass to two decades of strangers becoming family.
