This week’s album of the week will be Camper Van Beethoven’s New Roman Times.  A true concept album, New Roman Times was the band’s 2004 reunion/comeback record after having been dormant for 14 years.  The concept was strange (what would you expect from CVB?), but intriguing, involving a plot about a fictional America divided into smaller republics (most notably the secular Republic of California and the Fundamentalist Christian Republic of Texas) that are at war with one another.  The band employs some none-too-disguised political jabs as well as indulges their taste for 1970s-style prog rock, mixed with Middle Eastern melodies and ska-based rhythms...All in all, a very fitting selection for KDRT’s Album of the Week in this very lively election season.  Dug Deep hosts this edition of Album of the Week.

It’s cool jazz, soul jazz, a little bossa nova. Plus Al Jarreau’s Take Five, and some modern jazz guitar tonight. Jacy Parker * Charlie Parker & His Quintet * Ethel Ennis * Ruby Braff * Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong * Sam Lazar * Vince Guaraldi & Bola Sete * Stanley Turrentine * Al Jarreau * Howard Roberts * Don Thompson & Pat La Barbera

The best way to describe Michael Nau's first solo LP, Mowing, is as an alternative indie-folk album that is about as eclectic as it gets. Everything is extremely stripped down and low tempo, leaving plenty of time for reflective lyricism that's laced with introspective observations. Nau's voice is as laidback as the skillful but simple instrumentation, never getting angry or excited, just crowing softly as the tune beats on. The best songs on Mowing are the more upbeat "The Glass," the emotionally resonant "Good Moon," and the funky single "Winter Beat." The album works best when you want to listen for relaxation; it won't pump you up, but it will settle you down smoothly and peacefully. Mowing isn't for everyone, but if you are into laidback indie folk, you can't go wrong with Michael Nau.

Listening Lyrics is honored that during the live broadcast we will be introducing the new CD by the Big Sticky Mess.  Big Sticky Mess traveled lightyears at rocketing speeds to Earth in search of you. Now, as if shot out of a cannon through the heart of a rainbow, the Mess is here bringing a kaleidoscopic mix of extraterrestrial hooks, vibrant grooves and potent beats, purely for your entertainment.  Close your eyes and hear the funky jams reminiscent of decades past with a sound much larger than the three piece arrangement before you should allow.  So slip another drop under your tongue and join the inter-planetary groove train that is the Big Sticky Mess.

All Listening Lyric shows are live on Fridays from 4:00PM to 5:00PM.(PST) on KDRT 95.7FM. For those outside the listening area, the show will stream live online at KDRT.org . It will also be available for replays in the show archives or as an podcast on iTunes under LISTENING LYRICS.