Tom Edelstein of Eagan:
1 Chicago and Earth, Wind & Fire, Xcel Energy Center. Even though their vocals were weak, Chicago's flashback to the '70s brought back many wonderful memories. Earth, Wind & Fire are still incredible performers and can make us "Groove Tonight."
2 Bruce Springsteen, Phoenix. After seeing him perform just nine days earlier at the X in St. Paul, I found it hard to believe that his rendition of "The River" was even more moving and passionate.
3 The Rides. After listening to their CD, I am excited to see them perform May 2 at Ames Center in Burnsville. It's a side of Stephen Stills I've never heard before — more bluesy and less political.
Jon Bream of the Star Tribune:
1 Iggy Pop, Northrop. Backed by a rapier-sharp band led by Josh Homme, the ageless, shirtless garage-rock hero romped with a message, humor and abandon. At 68, he still has a lust for rock.
2 "Soul Survivor" by David Remnick, New Yorker. This lengthy profile of Aretha Franklin spins a familiar story with great detail, ambitious sourcing and excellent perspective. Even though the legendary soul singer is guarded, the author provides some insights, such as biographer David Ritz's observation: "Denial is her strategy for emotional survival."
3 Cactus Blossoms, "Powder Blue." The dreamy, romantic single by the Twin Cities duo of bros sounds like the Everly Brothers doing Patsy Cline on a song written by Buddy Holly. Yet somehow it all sounds very fresh.
