Randy Newman rarely makes studio albums anymore, August’s Dark Matter marking only his fourth LP in the past four decades. As Oscar-winning film soundtracks have become his primary focus, the 74-year-old pianist, singer, and composer has dedicated less time to the satiric wit and distinct narratives behind Seventies hallmarks including Sail Away and Little Criminals.: “I would have hoped to have done more,” he confesses. “It’s bad work habits. I think I should have done and could have done more. I’m glad that they’re good records, but when I don’t have to write, I don’t write. I’ve never liked to write. It’s sacrilege to say this in Austin, but I never have since I was a kid. I love having written stuff, but sitting there trying to think of stuff is a hard time for me.”: Still, Dark Matter arrives in a timely fashion for Newman’s acerbic pen, evidenced by sharp send-ups like “Putin” or a revision of his Monk theme, “It’s a Jungle Out There (V2).” Humor balances the emotional pull of “Lost Without You,” “Wandering Boy,” and the stunning stylistic complexities of “The Great Debate” and “Sonny Boy.”: “They’re never gonna love the guy who’s the comic, not in this field,” muses Newman of his more satirical work. “[Music] may not be a great medium for it. It isn’t the way to the country’s heart. I think this is probably the most popular that I’ve ever been, and there are younger people coming to the concerts, but I don’t think I’m that important – that if I weren’t out here it would be a big deal.: “It’s a bad time for the country,” he adds. “But it’s a good time for songwriters.”