CD Review

Roots-pop seemed to be a genre left behind somewhere in the post grunge/pre rap-metal days of mid-90s. Bands like Hootie and Blowfish, Gin Blossoms and Sister Hazel were everywhere, writing catchy songs that both you and your mom liked. While most of those bands have come and gone without making much of a lasting impression, the last couple of years the genre seems to have revived itself on the college circuit with acts like O.A.R. leading the way. Among the crop of newcomers is the Virginia Coalition - ‘VACO’ as they are affectionately known by their fans. Mixing a blend of rock, soul, R&B and even a little hip-hop thrown into the mix, the group has just released their fourth album, Ok To Go.

A friend had mentioned to me that they put on a great live show, and while this is a studio disc, you can picture yourself in a bar drinking beer, bobbing your head to their music. Unfortunately, VACO’s music isn’t that engaging, it’s bland and you can hardly seem to remember one song from the next. They do try to keep things interesting by playing with different styles - but it’s really not enough to keep you from getting bored mid-song. I do have to credit lead singer Andrew Poliakoff though by saying if Steven Page from the Barenaked Ladies ever lost his voice, he could easily step in - he’s a dead ringer.

The only song I seem to remember from the entire album is their cover of Blackstreet’s "No Diggity," and that’s just from the novelty of it. If you’re a fan of O.A.R., Pat McGee Band and the like, I’m sure this will fit nicely into your collection. For the rest of us, we should probably pass.