A half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view:

Dr. John and Trombone Shorty, Music in the Zoo. Can't make it to New Orleans for JazzFest? Two of the fest's top regular performers are coming to the Minnesota Zoo — Dr. John on July 19 and Trombone Shorty on July 21.

Bon Jovi, Xcel Energy Center. "Blood on Blood," a song about loyalty and friendship co-written by longtime guitarist Richie Sambora, was a curious choice for an encore considering Sambora's absence.

Mötley Crüe residency, Hard Rock Hotel, Las Vegas. The Crüe returns to the Hard Rock this fall for its second rock residency. The theme for the 12 scheduled shows is a trashed hotel room, which seems fitting.

Ryan Lund, Edina

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Chick Corea and Bela Fleck, the Dakota. The piano giant and banjo god were playful in their banter and their musical exchanges. It was a masterful mashup by two big names who play with ease, authority and striking expressiveness.

Toots and the Maytals, Mill City Nights. At 70, Toots Hibbert doesn't have the energy of old, but that soulful voice and those reggae-got-soul grooves provided a Jamaica-good time.

A161P in-ear headset. I'm not a big earbuds guy, but these stylish ones from MEElectronics are keepers. While the cable is a bit flimsy, the sound is superior — remarkable clarity, detail and warmth in the bass, midrange and treble.

Jon Bream, Star Tribune