TOP PICK

The Place Beyond the Pines

(Universal Studios)

An ambitious attempt to weave together the story of two fathers and their respective sons, Derek Cianfrance’s epic 282-minute film ultimately falters in the final half. But for the first half, it’s a gripping account of a hardended criminal (Ryan Gosling) and the self-righteous cop (Bradley Cooper) who feels compelled to kill him.

The Civil Wars

The Civil Wars

(Columbia)

This talented duo has unfortunately gone on hiatus so don’t expect to see it touring in the wake of the release of this fine album of sparse folk-rock tunes.

This article appears in Aug 7-13, 2013.

Jeff has been covering the Cleveland music scene for more than 25 years now. On a regular basis, he tries to talk to whatever big acts are coming through town. And if you're in a local band that he needs to hear, email him at jniesel@clevescene.com.