Rush, “Time Machine Tour”
Rush proved a point in New Orleans on Friday — pure talent doesn’t age. From the glimmering opening notes of “Spirit of the Radio” to the final cymbal rolls of “Working Man,” Rush kept fans of all seating levels standing for the whole 26-song set. As always, drummer Neil Peart wowed audiences by effortlessly navigating complex fills, rhythms and time-signatures with all the calmness of an orchestral percussionist. Though Peart’s solo — the backbone of any Rush concert — seemed a little shorter than usual, a sub-par Peart solo is like sub-par sex — might not be the most amazing time ever, but are you really complaining?
A+
STEVE POWELL
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Cults, “Cults”
Indie-pop duo Cults soared onto the scene last year with its ditty “Go Outside” and was speedily signed to Columbia Records. Much like their debut single, their album celebrates youth, incorporating samples and melodies from girl groups. For the most part the music isn’t saccharine – the petulant lyrics are backed by guitar riffs and sweeping synths reminiscent of “dream pop” artists like Beach House. But at times, Cults verges on twee — a turnoff to mature listeners. Cults’ debut is a pearl of indie-pop glee, but the duo needs to expand its style if it wants to live up to the hype.
B
STEPHANIE GIGLIO
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City and Colour, “Little Hell”
Dallas Green, the lead vocalist, lead guitarist, heart and soul of City and Colour, released his third studio album, “Little Hell” on June 7. The album shows off Green’s growth as an artist and musician, breaking from his traditional sound by including rock-style songs and stringy synths in the album, while maintaining the acoustic sounds he is known for. Each song communicates a clear intention, and many surround the familiar topic of love, distress, and sorrow. Green’s lyrics flow easily and powerfully through instrumental riffs on his clear and soulful voice. “Little Hell” is a creation worthy of attention.
A
MORGAN SEARLES
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Tina Fey, “Bossypants”
“Bossypants,” a memoir of how comedienne Tina Fey became an “achievement-oriented, drug-free, adult virgin,” has put Fey in a league of her own. The “Saturday Night Live” alum, “Mean Girls” screenwriter and “30 Rock” star and developer has transitioned her hilarity to hardback, leaving readers laughing so hard they cry. The chapter “Growing Up and Liking It” is painfully funny to all who have made it through (or are still living in) years of adolescence awkwardness, while the chapter “That’s Don Fey,” shows Fey’s capacity to respectfully poke fun at those we hold nearest to our hearts. “Bossypants” certainly proves “you are no one until you are called bossy.”
A+
LAURA FURR
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Battles, “Gloss Drop”
Following the departure of vocalist/guitarist Tyondai Braxton, the follow-up album to experimental math-rock band Battles’ critically-acclaimed debut “Mirrored” was shrouded in a lot of uncertainty. Those doubts appear to have been unfounded: Sophomore effort “Gloss Drop” takes the band in a more accessible direction, but the group still retains its distinct sound. Hyperactive percussion drives the thick grooves on this album, joined by spastic guitars and energetic keyboards to create an intricate, layered atmosphere that will be familiar to fans of the debut. In lieu of Braxton’s vocals, guest features are scattered throughout the record, including on lead single “Ice Cream,” a loud, lively song that may be as fun as any track released this year.
A-
MICHAEL HARB
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“Toddlers and Tiaras” season 6 premiere
Season 6 of T&T kicked off Wednesday, showcasing 6-year-old crybaby Eden and 5-year-old brat MaKenzie. The episode featured T&T staples: flippers, facials, fits and fights. Fans will recognize familiar judges, coordinators and themes — hopefully the focus on two screaming demons, as opposed to the traditional three, was a one-time change. As always only one “little diva” can be chosen Ultimate Grand Supreme, to the disappointment of 400lb mothers in t-shirts and their 5lb daughters in Hooters-short tutus. I urge those who haven’t watched T&T to give it a try — classic trash TV, the show continues to be a disgusting, fascinating commentary.
B+
ERIN CHAMBERS
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Coldplay, “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall”
Coldplay released the first known track of their fifth album era, “Every Teardrop is a Waterfall,” in the U.K. on June 4. The track is classic Coldplay. Lead singer Chris Martin’s accent and piano melody is as good as ever, and about 2/3 of the way through the track he serenades his listeners with his famous ah-ooohs. “Every Teardrop” resembles the track “Strawberry Swing” from the 2008 album “Viva la Vida” with its happy pop vibe. Die-hard fans will love it because it’s required of them, but others may pass it off as just another Coldplay song.
B-
LAURA FURR
 
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