Calendar’s Summer Splash : Critic’s Choices : POP MUSIC

The first essential moment on the summer pop calendar is June 6 when the Cowboy Junkies headline the Wiltern Theatre. This Canadian band--mixing stark, misty blue textures with soulful vocals by Margo Timmins that suggest the integrity and conviction of Emmylou Harris--was mesmerizing in its local club debut last December at the Lingerie and it should be even stronger, now that it is equipped with several compelling new songs.

Next in line are the New Order/Public Image Ltd./the Sugarcubes concerts June 16 and 18 at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre, though it’s the opening act that holds the most promise. The Sugarcubes combine a slightly tilted post-punk vitality with a vaguely mysterious Icelandic perspective.

The Who’s Aug. 26 date at the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum will test the ability of veteran rock bands (including the Rolling Stones due this fall) to operate effectively at a stadium level at an age that once seemed incompatible with rock ‘n’ roll. An Aug. 24, Universal Amphitheatre benefit will feature a performance of the rock opera “Tommy,” with the band joined by such special guests.

Rap is the most active area of pop at the moment, so one of the Universal Amphitheatre package shows scheduled for July is a must. New York’s L.L. Cool J headlines July 25 and 26, while L.A.’s own Tone-Loc--Mr. Funky Cold Medina himself--is expected to top the bill in a second show around the same time. Alternative in rap: De La Soul’s local debut Tuesday night of De La Soul at the Palace.

Albums of special interest should include Paul McCartney’s “Flowers in the Dirt” album (due June 6) and Don Henley’s “The End of the Innocents” (due June 13) hold offer special promise. The former Beatle came up with one of his best albums (“Venus and Mars”) to coincide with his first U.S. tour in 1974 and McCartney may do the same to celebrate his upcoming U.S. tour. Good sign: Elvis Costello co-wrote some of the songs. Henley--along with Springsteen, Gabriel, Sting and Mellencamp--deals in a thoughtful brand of rock that combines introspective feelings with passionate social observation.