Most people know Harry Shearer [ tickets ] as the voice of many characters on the "The Simpsons." or as Derek Smalls in the film "This Is Spinal Tap [ tickets ]." Uber-fans know him for something else entirely--his weekly public radio program, "Le Show." A labor of love for 25 years, Shearer produces the program on his own dime.

Like a kid in a candy store, Shearer uses the platform to deliver a rich mix of musical satire, comedy skits and commentary. His focus often is news that falls through the cracks, especially regarding the ongoing plight of New Orleans.

Shearer and his wife, Judith Owen [ tickets ], are currently on the road with their annual "Judith & Harry's Holiday Sing-along," which appears in Hollywood tonight and Saturday (12/5-6); Chicago next week (12/11); and New Orleans on Dec. 20.

Last August, Shearer and friends gave a CD release party for "Songs Pointed and Pointless" at the House of Blues in West Hollywood CA; here are some of the photos I took at the event.