There are certain deep, important questions we should all take the time to ask ourselves from time to time.

Like whether "smooth" is a quantifiable quality in music or would Hall & Oates win a back alley song-off against Michael McDonald and Kenny Loggins.

Because if you understand those questions, then maybe there is a chance you can figure out the strange resurgence of Yacht Rock.

Regular readers will know that the NXT Desk is a big supporter of Yacht Rock, going back to when we first discovered it around this time last year.

I know my life has never been the same since.

We found it then and we're bringing it up now because the guys over at Brown Jacket Media are throwing their second Yacht Rock party this Friday at the White Heart starting at 8 p.m.

Yes, Yacht Rock is returning to Portland. And the NXT Desk could not be more happy about this news.

For those unfamiliar with Yacht Rock, it started as series of online videos about the secret tumultuous history of the generation of rockers who felt the call of smooth music.

We're talking about the likes of McDonald, Hall & Oates, Steely Dan, Christopher Cross and more.

(For a real historical perspective on yacht rock, Diddy Wah has a look back at the roots of the smooth.)

The videos were the product of a group of writers, actors, comedians and music lovers from Southern California. The show ran online for 10 episodes, beginning in 2005, and faded for a bit before Internet cult celebrity asked for permission to come aboard the yacht.

In an interview with Spinner, JD Ryznar, one of the writers and actors, talks about the stranger aspects of the Yacht Rock phenomenon including talking with Hall & Oates and the guys from Toto.

Along with the online sensation came renewed interest in the entire Yacht Rock catalog, as DJs around the country took Yacht Rock back to clubs.

This Friday, Jason Keith and Matty T are not only spinning the finest hits, but the White Heart is also throwing a costume contest for the smoothest "late 70s/early 80s" outfits. If you're looking for ideas start with the show itself, which is now on YouTube. You can also consult the records bin at Goodwill and the United Way (like I have), or follow these suggestions.

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