FM dial scan highlights CIX

Here are six standout tracks, five of which I heard today and one I heard Sunday:

KDHX 88.1 FM

• Hurdy Gurdy Man-The Spectres (Based on the intro, I half-expected to hear a calliope rendition of "The Little Drummer Boy."  This is a fun, swirling, of-its-time tale of a street musician. "The Proper Ornaments" by Super Furry Animals could segue with this.)
• They Remind Me Of You-Billy J. Kramer & The Dakotas (I was reminded of early Beatles music and The Dave Clark Five's "Because" as I listened.)

WSIE 88.7 FM

• Araignee-Emily Bear Trio (Tasty piano bossa nova.)
• Chicago Song-David Sanborn (A memorable saxophone hook, fit for talk show bumper music.)
• Somehow Our Love Survives-Joe Sample with Al Jarreau (One of many highlights from keyboardist Joe Sample's excellent release, "Spellbound."  Sample lays down an appealing, uptempo keyboard part, and Jarreau's vocals invite the listener to sing along.)

KWMU 90.7 FM

• Everything Happens To Me-Charlie Haden & Brad Mehldau (Bass and piano elegance fit to underscore a black and white movie.  This effect is even more pronounced on Charlie Haden Quartet West's "Always Say Goodbye" album rendition.)