A half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view:
"See a Little Light: A Celebration of the Music and Legacy of Bob Mould." This concert documentary features a bevy of rock stars, including Dave Grohl and Ryan Adams, saluting Minnesota's own shoulda-been a bigger rock star. Fun, funny and moving all at once.
Tom Collins, "Rebel Without Applause." This local singer-songwriter's record is going to turn some heads. The guffaw-inducing Westerbergian self-deprecating title should be a tipoff to the musical and lyrical surprises therein.
Moe's Folk and Blues Festival, Mounds View. This year featured Charlie Parr, Paul Metsa, Gene Lafond, Mary Cutrufello and must-see newcomers Miss Becky Kapell and Sarah Streitz.
Dan Israel, St. Louis Park singer-songwriter
To contribute, e-mail popmusic@startribune.com.
Kacey Musgraves, "Pageant Material." Her second album showcases country sensibilities with irresistible cheekiness and cleverness, suggesting that she's the smartest female singer-songwriter in Nashville not named Taylor Swift.
Erik Koskinen, "Live at the Real-Phonic Radio Hour." This well-engineered CD proves this Minnesotan is as effective a singer as he is an accomplished country songwriter. Very impressive.
James Hetfield and Kirk Hammett play "Star-Spangled Banner." A harmony-filled two-guitar instrumental version before the NBA Finals spurred the Golden State Warriors to victory.
Jon Bream, Star Tribune
