The strange-but-true story of a collection of demo recordings released 40 years ago this month (four years after they were recorded) that became one of the most revered albums in rock 'n' roll — even if few people know the band or the songs.

We discuss what makes 'The Modern Lovers' album and band (led by Jonathan Richman and including future members of Talking Heads and the Cars) so compelling, with some guest commentary from family and friends.

Dad Rock is a music podcast from USA TODAY, hosted by Patrick Foster and Jim Lenahan. Please subscribe on iTunes. You can also stream or download the show on SoundCloud, Stitcher, TuneIn or AudioBoom.

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