Pick Six is a half-dozen cool things in music, from two points of view.
Monica LaPlante, who will headline Palmfest in Minneapolis July 30:
1 Palmer's Bar Patio. This is the spot to catch live music this summer! Christy Costello has been working hard to book so many diverse and talented bands. The audiences are always genuinely excited to hear music and dance. I've been looking forward to playing Palmfest for months.
2 LoneLady, "Former Things." This album is vintage synthesizer paradise. Every time I listen to it, I find something new to focus on. Every instrument is like its own gear, fitted into place, and turning the groove machine. It's especially great for driving, cleaning and running errands.
3 EVV. They are a force to be reckoned with. As soon as I heard "Dead to Me" I was sucked in. Seeing them play live was even more exciting. They bring a powerful energy to the stage. Catch a show while you still can.
Chris Riemenschneider, Star Tribune critic:
1 Eleganza at Palmer's. Former Chooglin'/Midnight Evils frontman Brian Vanderwerf's penchant for gritty, loose rock 'n' roll sounded newly rekindled and as soulful as ever outside his bassist's legendary bar last weekend, especially in songs from an upcoming album recorded pre-pandemic with Drive-by Truckers bassist Matt Patton producing.
2 Gully Boys at the Hook & Ladder. Topping off Night 2 of the Roots, Rock & Deep Blues Fest last week, the melodic, manic, fun-loving feminist punks sounded tighter and fuller with second guitarist Emily Schoonover in tow and a strong batch of new, groovier tunes from an EP due in September
3 Heiruspecs at Icehouse. Yep, even these old pals from St. Paul Central High had new jams to debut on stage last week. The live hip-hop vets edged on dark disco vibes in one of the newbies, tentatively titled "Werewolves." Kudos to all these musicians for staying creative through lockdown.
