Jim Koloc of Eagan:

1 Beat Root Revival, Orpheum. Opening for Brian Wilson, the acoustic duo of Andrea Magee and Ben Jones offered powerful harmonies, bodhran and killer guitar chops on roots originals and covers.

2 "Trombone Bohemian Rhapsody." Expertly covered by 28 players at the 2018 International Trombone Festival, this spot-on 7-minute reading is sure to bring a smile.

3 Dave King on drums. Primarily free-form, his music is both crazy and crazy good and definitely not for the faint of heart.

Jon Bream of Star Tribune:

1 Ice Cube, "Late Late Show With James Corden." The jam "The New Funkadelic" was a fittingly funky tip of the cap to George Clinton.

2 Brandi Carlile, the State. Easily her best local show ever. "O Holy Night" in the dark!

3 Elvis Costello, Northrop. Arguably his best local show in years. A terrific mix of new and old songs.