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.
