MUSIC TIP

In Murmuration

The Von Hertzen Brothers

Over the course of nine albums, lamentably under-known Finnish band the Von Hertzen Brothers have wonderfully experimented with progressive rock, metal, pop, indigenous folk music and whatever happens when the three siblings decide to create their own sonic incantations. On “In Murmuration,” after recent and conceptual prog-tastic efforts like “War is Over” and “Red Alert in the Blue Forest,” they’ve released a molten and exhilarating album of streamlined rock music and balladry. Expect stunning melodies, speedskating guitar riffs, clever dynamics — as if the Foo Fighters and the Bee Gees smashed into each other on a carnival ride. “In Murmuration” is the sort of jaw-dropping exercise that make you realize there’s a LOT left to explore in guitar-based rock.

— Rick Koster

TV TIP

Happy’s Place

8 p.m. Fridays, NBC

I know this suggestion is heresy, but I’ll throw it out there anyway: Could it be that Reba McEntire is an even better actress than she is a singer? I’d argue that she just might be. The new sitcom “Happy’s Place” shows off McEntire in her best light, as a warmhearted, funny and complex soul. She’s perfect as the center of this old-school workplace/family comedy. Her character, Bobbie, runs the bar that was owned by her late father. But then she learns that her dad left half of the bar to her and half to his other daughter — whom no one knew existed. The problem, comedy-wise, is newfound, much-younger sibling Isabella (portrayed by Belissa Escobedo) is the straight man, so she fades into the background compared to the other colorful characters. Chief among those scene-stealers: Melissa Peterman, McEntire’s co-star from “Reba,” as the waitress who longs to be Bobbie’s BFF, and Rex Linn as the cook who just wants to be left alone but ends up dispensing wisdom to his co-workers. The show is almost there, but having Isabella become funnier would make “Happy’s Place,” well, a happier place.

— Kristina Dorsey

FOOD TIP

Dot’s Cinnamon Sugar Homestyle Pretzel Twists

It was only back in April that I wrote a tip about Dot’s Original Homestyle Pretzel Twists, a baked snack with the pleasure dynamic (and addictive properties) of crunchy, buttery, garlicky opium. Now, the wily Dot is back with a cinnamon sugar version. It’s just as dangerous — er, DELICIOUS — as her previous effort, and the sweetness component is perfect for the holiday season. Warning: do NOT leave Santa cookies anymore. He no longer wants them. He wants Dot’s Cinnamon Sugar Homestyle Pretzel Twists and they’d better be by the chimney when he gets to your house.

— Rick Koster