Mia Rheineck of St. Louis Park:
1 Lana Del Rey, Target Center. With her nostalgic and chill approach, she was able to bring multiple songs from her albums to life. When she sang "Off to the Races," she used a mix of visuals that gave a vintage feel.
2 Bleachers, "Gone Now." The newest album from this one-man band has its usual '80s and '90s influence. The songs touch on current events as well as events the singer has experienced.
3 Haim, "Something to Tell You." From the sister group comes a new album full of pop-rock songs. The three Haims write their own music and play instruments during their performance.
Contribute: popmusic@startribune.com.
Jon Bream of the Star Tribune:
1 Caitlyn Smith, "Starfire." She may hail from Cannon Falls, Minn., but she sounds at home in Nashville on this impressive debut. Her songs are detailed and emotional. Her voice — a cross between Sheryl Crow and Kelly Clarkson — is a winner. Love "St. Paul," which mentions the Turf Club.
2 Sharon Jones, Downbeat magazine. Dap-Kings leader Bosco Mann discloses that in the end, when cancer-stricken Jones couldn't speak, she was somehow able to harmonize with her backup singers.
