A half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view:
Honeydogs, "10,000 Years" on vinyl. A masterpiece 11 years ago and worthy of this recent reissue on vinyl. Lush arrangements, stunning harmonies and a heady concept. The original release show is still in my top five favorite shows at First Avenue.
Eric Koskinen, "Live at the Real-Phonic Radio Hour." Having witnessed this band perform these songs live, I am thrilled they have been captured. Koskinen is as much a masterful bandleader as he is an author of songs.
"Mischke Road Show." His latest podcast is an interview with Jerry Garcia's daughter, Annabelle. It was so engaging that not only did it motivate me to mop my kitchen floor while listening but I have also revisited my box of tapes. Bringing me down a familiar path of "Morning Dews." It's good to be home.
molly maher, St. Paul singer-songwriter
To contribute: popmusic@startribune.com
Babes in Toyland, Rock the Garden. All kinds of emotion, a couple of mess-ups and an overabundance of raw power. That's how to stage a homecoming after an 18-year hiatus.
Tedeschi Trucks Band, the State. Thankfully, the sublime Derek Trucks cut loose on guitar more than usual, but the highlight was the encore of Etta James' "Tell Mama" and a Sly Stone medley with openers Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings joining in for the most exciting encore of the year.
"Damn Yankees," the Ordway. This baseball version of Faust is old-fashioned but highly entertaining, thanks to brisk pacing and vivid characters with strong singing voices. The various Twins connections (including an announcer) are a nice touch, too.
Jon Bream, Star Tribune
