Grammar lessons, architecture jokes, polka left-overs and drugging your sibling: parody king "Weird Al" Yankovic answers listener questions.
music
Philharmonic Conductor (and Secret Jazz Cat) Alan Gilbert
Alan Gilbert, conductor of the New York Philharmonic, tells Brendan that classical music is doing pretty well in the States these days - but that he might still run away to play Japanese jazz.
Jenny Lewis Shares Mint Chips, Ticking Clocks
Singer-songwriter Jenny Lewis dominated the early-aughts with her wistful indie pop. She's back this month with a new solo record. Her dinner party soundtrack is easy to love - and easy to leave.
Jake Tuck Would Like His Record Back
Writer and former musician Jake Tuck's band sold one record. He would like his record back.
Audra McDonald Finds the Essence of Billie Holiday
Actress and singer Audra McDonald is among the brightest Broadway stars of a generation. In "Lady Day at Emerson's Bar and Grill," she depicts a weary, addiction-addled, yet nonetheless tremendously gifted, Billie Holiday, giving one of the final performances of her life.
People Get Ready for a Party
Brooklyn band People Get Ready create electronic pop that, while it stands alone on record, is composed with choreography in mind. The playlist they provide this week may itself inspire a bit of dancing.
An Attempted Demolition of Disco
This week back in 1979, Chicago rock DJ Steve Dahl took revenge on the disco craze by holding a massive disco bash – literally.
Playlist 259
Music from Episode 259
Zig Zags Mellow, for a Moment
L.A. trio Zig Zags are known for heavy, retro metal-punk and have collaborated with Iggy Pop and Ty Segall. They turned the volume down a notch to put together this mellow, '70s-style playlist.
Playlist: Episode 257
Music from Episode 257