Michael Staertow Review of "Oxygen" @ iTunes By: Tate Bengtson multitalented musician with a fine grasp of writing infectious hooks, Michael Staertow imbues Oxygen with a pleasing sense of songwriting sensibilities and classy musicianship that is quite well done. Vocally, many of the melodies reminded me of the singer from Galactic Cowboys in that they tend to be understated and even a tad whiney (ie. "River of Sin"), but in an effective and memorable way that is in line with 80s melodic rock/AOR. Where Staertow differs from a band like Galactic Cowboys, is in his ability to seize those very solid, unabashedly catchy songwriting hooks, and ensure that they are delivered with a rich smoothness that is quite impressive, particularly on the slower-paced "Promise." This track is followed with one of the heavier numbers, the stomping "Hydrostatic," which features a thick guitar riff and an pulsating bass guitar groove that presented a very intriguing (and successful) contrast to Staertow's gentler melodies. I could definitely see Oxygen appealing to fans of Galactic Cowboys, King's X, and such AOR stalwarts as Hugo and Bob Catley. © Tate Bengtson / Ballbuster International Hard Music Report Wastin' My Life Away Elephant River Of Sin Promise