NRBQ, “Message for the Mess Age”; <i> Forward/Rhino</i>

If there was a “lost groove” akin to the mythical lost chord, one in such perfect harmony with the universe that it conveys instant enlightenment upon anyone who hears it, NRBQ would be the best bet to find it. Time after time the veteran quartet--”virtuosos of fun,” as Robert Christgau once described its members--crafts pop masterpieces of such enticing rhythm and infectious melody that they seem to have a special pipeline to the heart of the musical cosmos. The band’s first studio album in five years is no exception.

The opening track, “Over Your Head,” lopes out of the starting gate on the liquid rhythmic foundation provided by drummer Tom Ardolino and bassist Joey Spampinato. It’s so irresistible you find yourself smiling even as Adams sings its message about the myriad ways excess gets the human race into trouble.

Guitarist Al Anderson continues to be one of the musical wonders of the world, both in his playing and songwriting. While he has the chops to cut the best rock or jazz players, he understands that there’s no need to play 1,000 notes when one, well chosen, will suffice. Check out the Beatle-esque charm of his “”Nothin’ Wrong With Me.”

As always, keyboardist-singer-songwriter Terry Adams is the wild card. Here, he turns in a plea to be his loved one’s “Designated Driver” and an ode to his longtime band-mate, “Spampinato.” That number is less ingratiating than their similarly self-reflective “Here Comes Terry” tribute years ago, and if overall the album lacks the seamless wonder of its predecessor, “Wild Weekend,” it’s only because the band’s laudable willingness to experiment inevitably produces some failures.