Christopher Ludtke of Minneapolis:
1 Rebirth Brass Band, the Dakota. Founding members Phil and Keith Frazier and their crew of New Orleans players brought a little NOLA warming joy to Minneapolis.
2 Fury Things, Turf Club. Opening for Birthday Suits, this Twin Cities band offered a roaring and restorative blast, with music from its forthcoming release, including a song referencing Kyle Werstein's recovery from his bike accident last year.
3 "We Can Be Heroes" tribute to David Bowie, the Dakota. It was Julius Collins with an all-star band led by Michael Bland doing two sets of Bowie's music. Featured were members of Melismatics, two Suburbs and great vocals all around.
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Jon Bream of the Star Tribune:
1 Kendrick Lamar, College Football Playoff Championship halftime. His appearance in a park near Atlanta's stadium underscored that hip-hop is truly mainstream — and he is a compelling force to be reckoned with.
2 Bad Plus, the Dakota. In their farewell as the original Twin Cities-launched trio, these much acclaimed jazzers showed continuing creativity and convincing chemistry despite some offstage acrimony. Wonder what will happen when new pianist Orrin Evans comes on board? Highlight: A smashing cover of Blondie's "Heart of Glass."
