Pick Six is a half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view. Contribute: popmusic@startribune.com.

Michael Myhra of St. Peter, Minn.:

1 Steve Earle, City Winery, New York. He played one song from each of his studio albums chronologically at the third show of his residency. He then finished the night off with a song from an upcoming album he made with Shawn Colvin.

2 Heritage Blues Orchestra, B.B. King's, New York. They stole the show opening up for the Blind Boys of Alabama. They truly do embrace the heritage of the blues, and take you back in time.

3 The Butanes, Treaty Site History Center, St. Peter. The old pros from this Twin Cities band, who have been playing together for more than 30 years, were tight as ever even though one member had pneumonia and another a cold. Frontman Curt Obeda threw some history in, speaking about his influences before covering their songs.

Jon Bream of the Star Tribune:

1 Mary Bridget Davies in "A Night With Janis Joplin," the Ordway. Even though the story line is thin and forced, she does a phenomenal job channeling Joplin's singing style, especially on "Piece of My Heart," "Ball and Chain" and "Cry Baby."

2 PaviElle at the Secret Stash Soul Revue, the Fitzgerald. Veteran Sonny Knight set a high standard to open, but this young Twin Cities soul singer showcased the range, depth, scat skills and soulfulness that suggest she could triumph on "The Voice," "American Idol" or any other contest. She's the real deal.

3 Robby Krieger, the Dakota. His son Waylon had the surliness and attitude befitting Jim Morrison but not the deep, haunting voice. However, Krieger's remarkable guitar work, including a solo that mashed up psychedelic rock, blues and country, suggests how vital he was to the Doors' magic.