Chris Stamey's Occasional Shivers Podcast From WUNC

A reimagining of the language of the Great American Songbook, where jazz meets pop against a backdrop of a 1960s Manhattan love story, returns this year with a new ending, new songs and new performances in Chris Stamey's "Occasional Shivers." Here's a preview of the program and the podcast .

In which Bags Benmont, leader of the Satin and Sparkle orchestra, encounters a surprising figure in front of NY’s Plaza Hotel, on a snowy New Years Eve day, 1963.

In which Bags and newcomer Will Cassidy arrive at Birdie McDavenish’s holiday party and meet a group of unusual characters. A song is commissioned, and a scuffle narrowly avoided.

In which legendary songwriter Paul Carter expounds on the whys and wherefores of "In-tox-cho-cli-fi-ca-tion."

In which songstress Jennifer Delancey’s casual remark in Central Park inspires Will; a late-night phone call then reveals a concern.

In which Paul details some ancient history. Then all protest a threatened calamity.

In which Will and Paul explore the nature of the muse, a secret is discovered, and a rainy-night visit to the Village Vagabond illuminates the theft of a song.

In which life grows complicated for the young lovers, at a meal at the Palm Court. Several letters arrive, followed by a mass dissolution and a sad separation.

In which a year has passed. Famed radio show You Pick the Hits’ winter song contest unveils the top three winners for 1965, with unexpected consequences.

In which Bags sets out for another party as snow blankets the city. A song is heard in the distance.

The podcast concludes with the full radio edit of Occasional Shivers .