A half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view:
Farewell Milwaukee, "Can't Please You, Can't Please Me." This new album has a vintage quintessential Minneapolis sound. So good.
Pearl Jam releases single "Sirens." It follows first single "Mind Your Manners." Sonically, these two songs from the Oct. 15 album "Lightning Bolt" are polar opposites. Pearl Jam continues to display range and diversity 20-plus years into a brilliant career.
Pink. On Dec. 10, she will be honored by Billboard as its 2013 Woman of the Year. It's so cool to see her grow into the artist she's become — from a quirky pop princess to a full-on diva who seemingly has complete control of her career and is pushin' excellent pop music. Can't wait for her Nov. 2 show at Target Center.
Paul Fletcher, Cities 97 (97.1 FM) DJ, Twin Cities
To contribute: popmusic@startribune.com
Paul Westerberg returns. Much ado has been made about the Replacements reunion shows at three RiotFest sites. I'm more excited that Westerberg has returned enthusiastically to the stage (after nine years) than I am about two of the 'Mats reprising their repertoire with two replacement pros.
Orquesta Buena Vista Social Club, "Tonight Show With Jay Leno." The personnel has changed some, but these Cuban veterans, featuring 82-year-old Omara Portuondo's chanting and dancing, showed percussive power on the piano-propelled, horn-accented "Candela." They perform Wednesday at the Burnsville Performing Arts Center.
