Critics' picks - pop music

(michael nagle for the new york times)

Crowded House

At the Somerville Theatre, tomorrow and Tuesday. The New Zealand pop-rock heroes are in town for a two-night stand armed with music from "Time on Earth," the group's first album of new material since 1993. Tomorrow night's show starts at 7:30, Tuesday's at 6:30. Tickets are $42 at ticket master.com or 617-931-2000.

Natalie Cole

At Symphony Hall, Wednesday. It's opening night at the Pops, where Keith Lockhart and company kick off the season with jazz-pop vocalist Natalie Cole to help celebrate the 90th anniversary of Leonard Bernstein's birth. Tickets are $29-$117 at bso.org or 617-266-1200.

Erykah Badu

At the Orpheum, Thursday. The neo-soul singer and songwriter (above) is touring in support of her eclectic, ambitious new album, "New Amerykah, Part 1: 4th World War." The Roots, as renowned for their live performances as their biting social commentary, open the show, which starts at 7:30. Tickets are $46, $50.50, and $56 at ticketmaster.com or 617-931-2000.

- Joan Anderman

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