Clem Snide's lineup changes frequently, which makes sense for a band that's never come close to making the same record twice.

NPR: Exclusive First Listen: Clem Snide

In that way, The Meat of Life is one of Clem Snide's most adult records, as thought-provoking as it is engagingly catchy.

NPR: Exclusive First Listen: Clem Snide

As leader of the now-defunct Clem Snide, Eef Barzelay took flak from critics for weaving smart-alecky wordplay and pop-culture references into his keenly observational songs.

NPR: Eef Barzelay: A Blueprint For Finding Love

The album will stream here in its entirety until its release on Feb. 23, so please leave your thoughts on Clem Snide in the comments section below.

NPR: Exclusive First Listen: Clem Snide

Hungry Bird, once billed as Clem Snide's swan song, is a sprawling bit of post-apocalyptic prog-rock, while The Meat of Life polishes its predecessor's weird edges to a smooth and appealing shine.

NPR: Exclusive First Listen: Clem Snide

Though it's far from single-minded in concept, The Meat of Life Clem Snide's seventh full-length album, not counting Barzelay's two fine solo records does emphasize the messy aftermath of individual decisions.

NPR: Exclusive First Listen: Clem Snide

Since then, Barzelay has released a solo acoustic record (2006's Bitter Honey), recorded Clem Snide's swan song (the still-unreleased Hungry Bird), and made Lose Big, a smart and compact collection of rock 'n' roll conversation-starters.

NPR: Eef Barzelay: A Blueprint For Finding Love

Barzelay has never been afraid to turn a pop song into a mission statement: For proof, check out Clem Snide's masterful "I Love the Unknown, " which Barzelay helpfully tacks on as a bonus track to Lose Big.

NPR: Eef Barzelay: A Blueprint For Finding Love