Robert Christgau Word of the Day

lap·i·dar·y n. pl. lap·i·dar·ies

1. One who cuts, polishes, or engraves gems.
   
2. A dealer in precious or semiprecious stones.
   

adj.

1. Of or relating to precious stones or the art of working with them.
   
2. Engraved in stone.
   
3. Marked by conciseness, precision, or refinement of expression: lapidary prose.
   
4. Sharply or finely delineated: a face with lapidary features.
   

(dictionary.reference.com)

The Bongos Drums Along the Hudson [PVC, 1982]

Although these casually lapidary popsongs sounded slight as singles, they gain authority laid down seven or eight to a side. But for all their jumpy originality they're still slight, and Richard Barrone's lyrics are so oblique you have to wonder what his angle is. Growing up isn't that confusing--or that personal. B+ (www.robertchristgau.com)