Summer of the Arts

Iowa Steel Band
2025-05-16 18:30 - 20:00 (America/Chicago) | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Arts Share
Please note that this performance ends at 8:00 PM.

About: The Iowa Steel Band, under the direction of Dr. Dan Moore, is among the most active touring ensembles from The UI School of Music. The band was formed in 1996 as an ensemble within the percussion studio at Iowa and typically features 15-20 performing members including undergraduate and graduate students.
For nearly 30 years, when most college students are packing their bags and heading home for summer vacation, members of the Iowa Steel Band load up into three university vans and a large equipment truck for a ten-day performance tour. Each Spring, the week after finals, the band travels throughout Iowa and the Midwest performing in schools, concert halls, community centers, shopping malls, train depots, churches, hospitals, treatment facilities, retirement homes, libraries, museums, parks, parking lots, and band shells—lots of band shells. Under the auspices of The Iowa Arts Share program Dr. Moore and the band have now performed in 47 of Iowa’s 99 counties and are still counting.

Contact Information:
Web: https://music.uiowa.edu/performing-opportunities/percussion-ensembles
Other links:
Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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West Liberty High and West High Jazz Ensembles
2025-05-23 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Shive-Hattery
6:30 PM-7:35 PM: West Liberty High School performs
7:55 PM-9:00 PM: West High School performs

About: The West Liberty Varsity Jazz Band is comprised of students in grades 8 through 12 and rehearses two evenings per week. In January 2025, the band earned their second consecutive Division I Superior rating at IHSMA State Jazz Festival. The Varsity Jazz Band most recently attended the Iowa Jazz Championships in 2023. They look forward to performing in the Iowa City Friday Night Concert Series in downtown Iowa City on Friday, May 23rd.

Contact Information:
Web:
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About: Iowa City West High School has three jazz bands with over 70 students involved. The Jazz Ensemble is a consistent participant in the Iowa Jazz Championships and regularly places in the top 8 4A bands in the state of Iowa. The jazz bands prepare four concerts throughout the year performing a wide variety of styles and genres of music. Recently, the jazz bands have performed at the Southeast Polk Jazz Invitational, LIberty Jazz Festival, Coe College Jazz Summit, Jazz in the Meadows, SEIBA Jazz Festival, and the Iowa Jazz Championships.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.iowacityschools.org/Page/16912
Other links: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hwRtssvIlkU

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Clear Creek Amana High and City High Jazz Ensembles
2025-05-30 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Shive-Hattery
6:30 PM-7:35 PM: Clear Creek Amana High School performs
7:55 PM-9:00 PM: City High School performs

About: The Clear Creek Amana Jazz Ensemble is the premiere jazz band at Clear Creek Amana High School in Tiffin, Iowa. The band, made up of 16 students, performs at numerous concerts and festivals around Eastern Iowa, including the Liberty Jazz Festival and Coe Jazz Summit, and participates in the annual Corridor Jazz Project. Students in the jazz ensemble are involved in many other activities, including speech, drama, choir, and multiple different athletics. The students in the jazz ensemble are excited to perform again as part of the Friday Night Concert Series!

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.ccaschools.org/domain/3492
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Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: The City High Jazz Collective is the upper-level big band in the City High Jazz program. The band maintains a busy performance calendar as they perform for concerts at City High, other performances in the Iowa City-Cedar Rapids corridor area, and jazz festivals in Iowa and Illinois. The City High Jazz Collective performs for the following home events: the City High 4th Ave. Show Choir Winter Show and the City High Jazz Showcase (this year’s guest artist was trombonist/bari saxophonist Michael Dease from Michigan). In addition, the band performs at the Liberty Jazz Festival, the Coe College Jazz Summit, the Jazz In The Meadows Festival (in Rolling Meadows, Illinois) and the SEIBA District Jazz Festival.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.cityhighband.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/CityHighBands
https://www.instagram.com/cityhighbands
https://twitter.com/CityHighBands

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Charlotte Blu AND Brad & the Big Wave
2025-06-13 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Vortex Digital Business Solutions
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Charlotte Blu
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Brad & the Big Wave

About: Charlotte Blu is a talented singer-songwriter who has captivated audiences with her soulful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. Born and raised in a small town in the Midwest, Charlotte’s love for music began at a young age when she started playing guitar and singing in church. After her 2019 appearance on NBC’s “The Voice”, Charlotte continues to make a name for herself with her unique blend of blues, soul, and pop influences which is earning her a devoted fan base.
In 2022, Charlotte released her debut EP, “The Colors of You” which showcased her songwriting skills and powerful vocals. Charlotte is currently working on new material and working with other talented artists. In addition to her music career, Charlotte is also an advocate for mental health awareness in women and young people.

Contact Information:
Web:
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About: Hailing from Iowa City, Iowa, Brad and the Big Wave have made a name for themselves with their versatile sound. Led by singer and songwriter Brad Pouleson, the band has released two studio albums, “Better Side of Life” in 2023 and “This Crazy World” in 2019, both of which have garnered regular airplay on Iowa radio stations. On stage, the band brings a wall of sound that can either rock the house or bring things down and intimate. Their songs, albums and performances are a journey and you’ll want to come along for the ride.
With the release of their second album “Better Side of Life” in the summer of 2023, Brad and the Big Wave have taken their signature sound to new heights. Since thy began in 2017, the band has succeeded at creating a deeply expressive musical sound. Led by singer, musician and songwriter, Brad Pouleson, the band can simultaneously switch from an intricate, soul-searching song, to a soothing ballad, to music that rocks the house. Drawing upon the diverse talents of veteran bandmembers John Kramer on bass, Doug Langbehn on keyboards, Connor Wade on percussion, as well as the breakout new talent, vocalist Katelyn Halverson, Brad and the Big Wave continues to forge new ground. Their debut album “This Crazy World”, released in the spring of 2019, quickly garnered attention on the airwaves. The song “Road to My Redemption” was a semifinalist in the 2020 Music City Songstar songwriting competition.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/bradandthebigwave
https://bradandthebigwave.bandcamp.com/releases

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Back to Our Roots Fashion Show AND Leradee & the Positives
2025-06-20 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Axiom Consultants
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Back to Our Roots Fashion Show, produced by Andre Wright and Wright House of Fashion
7:15 PM-9:00 PM: Leradee and the Positives performance

About: Back to Our Roots, a vibrant fashion show celebrating culture, heritage, and creative expression through fashion and art!
Hosted by: Tayshauna McGeeSpoken word by: C?ue
Expect bold fashion, powerful poetry, and a joyful atmosphere rooted in community and creativity.

Contact Information:
Web:
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About: Leradee & The Positives is Roots Reggae with a taste a dancehall. With members hailing from within the U.S. and internationally, playing soul soothing, conscious and uplifting tunes. Warm, electrifying with dynamism is another way to describe us.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/LeradeeAndThePositives/

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Diplomats of Solid Sound
2025-06-27 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Graduate by Hilton Iowa City

About: Diplomats of Solid Sound is an American band and song writing powerhouse. Their mixture of old school funk, soul, and Americana has appeared in dozens of hit TV shows and movies throughout their 25 year career. With more than 50 million streams, the Diplomats have a dedicated following in Europe and North America.
The Ladies:
Sarah Cram – vocals
Katharine Ruestow – vocals
Abbie Sawyer – vocals
The Gents:
Nate “Count” Basinger – organ, piano
Forrest Heusinkveld – drums, percussion
Eddie McKinley – tenor saxophone
Douglas Roberson – guitar
Nolan Schroeder – baritone saxophone
Marty Christensen – bass

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.diplomatsofsolidsound.com/
Other links: www.facebook.com/diplomatsofsolidsound
www.instagram.com/diplomatsofsolidsound
www.twitter.com/diplosolidsound

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Flash in a Pan AND Awful Purdies-LOCATION CHANGE
2025-07-11 18:30 - 21:00 | Chauncey Swan Ramp, 415 E Washington St,, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Graduate by Hilton Iowa City
Please note the location change: we will be in the Chauncey Swan parking ramp tonight, 415 E. Washington St., Iowa City, IA 52240.
6:15 PM: Michelle Carpenter
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Flash in a Pan
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Awful Purdies

About: The Iowa City-based quartet has been refining their sound and performance all across the Midwest since 2012. Founded by guitarist Blake T. Daly, the current line-up also consists of banjo player Alex Flesher, mandolinist Max Lipnick, and bassist Lee Eckles. Over the years and through hundreds of shows, Flash in a Pan has cultivated a unique tonality balancing tradition and innovation in folk and bluegrass music. Noted for their shining vocal harmonies, vibrant stage energy, and modern sensibility in composition, Flash in a Pan has become a darling to festival stages, theaters, and bar rooms alike. Their musical style is all at once familiar and refreshingly unexpected.
Iowa Public Radio recognized Flash in a Pan as artist of the month in February 2024. Flash in a Pan has shared a stage with bluegrass royalty like The Travelin’ McCourys and Sam Bush, as well as rising acts and regional favorites like Chicago Farmer, Them Coulee Boys, The Lil Smokies, Miles Over Mountains, Pert Near Sandstone, The Kitchen Dwellers, and Horseshoes & Handgrenades.
Flash in a Pan has released two studio albums, Off The Rails (2017) and Folklore (2018) (available on Spotify). Currently, the band is developing new studio releases for 2024.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.flashinapan.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/flashinapanband/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0YdH54cVKi4

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About: Awful Purdies is a Folk-Americana collective of five multi-instrumental women, powered by seamless harmonies, banjo, accordion, cello, guitar, mandolin, and bass. The sound is an earnest nod to traditional American music, folk, old country, bluegrass, honky tonk, and soul.
The live performance experience is intimate, containing both humor and insight. On stage, Awful Purdies actively share gratitude and support of one another and take turns stepping up as lead singers and songwriters.
Since 2006, Awful Purdies have been raising families, telling women’s stories, advocating for human rights, and engaging with their communities in Eastern Iowa.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.awfulpurdies.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/AwfulPurdies/

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Diane Road AND The Recliners
2025-07-18 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Herteen & Stocker Jewelers
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Diane Road
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: The Recliners

About: Diane Road embraces a broad musical spectrum, including jazz and blues standards, as well as pop, rock, folk, country and soul from the 60’s through today. With fresh takes on classics and a gravitation toward the deeper tracks, they set out to hear the music you don’t always get to hear enough of.
Formed in 2023, the band is comprised of accomplished professionals with decades of experience, performing across the US and abroad.
Meghan McDonough, lead vocals: Public Property, The Fez; Chris Dimond guitar: Iowa City guitarist with local acts Ben Schmidt, The Fox Hill Troubadours, Zebra Maneuver, Silt Creek, The Crazy Critters and Kerak. Chris teaches private guitar lessons out of his home studio. (chrisdimondguitarlessons.com) Dave Sieveking, bass: Nashville and Twin Cities touring and sessions; Brian Cooper, drums for Dave Zollo, Brian Johannesen, Black Angel Blues Jam House Band and he also teaches drums.

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About: The Recliners is an 8-member ensemble and plays a wide variety of music shaped by the interests and talents of each individual member. This longstanding group of Iowa City denizens have played together for nearly 35 years. Their music ranges from classic ’60s and ’70s rock to newly released songs by contemporary singer-songwriters, and includes original tunes, American folk music, Irish melodies, bluegrass, blues, ballads, and mostly, good old-fashioned rock and roll.

Contact Information:
Web:
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/The-Recliners-of-Iowa-City-350253899510/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MaV8dLXj6CQ

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Ben Schmidt Band AND Whiskey Fund
2025-07-25 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Z’Mariks Noodle Cafe
6:30 PM-7:35 PM: Ben Schmidt Band
7:55 PM-9:00 PM: Whiskey Fund

About: Ben Schmidt Band: Singer/ Songwriter Ben Schmidt steps out of the “coffee house” and into the “barrel house.” With the help of the Power Plant Rhythm Section–Matt Bernemann (drums), and Rich Wagor (bass); and featuring Sean Seaton on keys, this quartet celebrates everything from blues, funky soul, to outlaw country, folk and rock and roll. Digging in with a mix of original tunes and old favorites, the band likes to “keep it greasy”, to stretch out and reimagine arrangements on the fly. The veteran core of the BSB is linked to many of the regions’ finest players, and guest appearances and cross-combinations are frequent – adding to the easy going, playful dynamic of the live experience.

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About: Born from a spontaneous late-night jam session in the heart of Iowa City, The Whiskey Fund is more than just a band—it’s an experience. When a last-minute gig opportunity arose and no established bands were available, a group of musicians from Eastern Iowa’s finest acts seized the moment. In that instance, The Whiskey Fund was born.
The band is comprised of seasoned veterans from beloved local groups such as Shade of Blue, the Bernemann Brothers Band, the Ben Schmidt Band, The Fez, Fox Hill Troubadours, The Tanya English Band, and the Nic Arp Band. The lineup includes Dave Rosazza (guitar/vocals), Ben Schmidt (guitar/vocals), Sean Seaton (keyboard/vocals), Bill Shannon (bass) and Jon Edwards (drums).
The Whiskey Fund will take you on a thrill ride through genres, reflecting the band’s belief that great music knows no boundaries. With a repertoire that includes classics and deep cuts from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Willie Nelson, Bob Marley, The Band, Bill Withers, Bob Dylan, Steely Dan, John Prine, Sly & The Family Stone, Robert Cray, Tom Waits, Wilson Pickett, Tom Petty, and many more, The Whiskey Fund promises an eclectic mix that will get you out of your seat and onto the dance floor.
Raise a glass to The Whiskey Fund, and join them for an unforgettable journey of musical exploration, where every show is unique, every note is sincere, and every moment is a testament to the power of live music.

Contact Information:
Web: https://whiskeyfundmusic.com/
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Dandelion Stompers
2025-08-01 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Graduate by Hilton Iowa City

About: For more than a decade, the Dandelion Stompers have brought savory horns, spicy vocals and red hot rhythms to eastern Iowa. With their second album under their belt they are ready for ten more years of singing, dancing, and stomping!
Lineup: Chris Clark-bar sax; Tim Crumley-percussion; Katie Greenstein-tpt; Brandi Janssen-bass; Marc Janssen-gtr; Katie Roche-voc; Suzanne Smith-cl; Devin van Holsteijn-alto sax

Contact Information:
Web: https://dandelionstompers.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/dandelionstompers/
https://www.instagram.com/dandelionstompers

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Carson Parker Trio AND Kiersten Conway Quartet
2025-08-08 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by West Music
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Carson Parker Trio
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Kiersten Conway Quartet

About: Carson Parker, a native of Des Moines, Iowa, has emerged as one of the Midwest’s most captivating young jazz pianists, blending a mix of jazz, blues, and funk into his distinctive style. Carson’s talent has taken him to some of the region’s greatest venues, including Chicago’s Fulton Street Collective, Clara Chicago, Opus Concert Cafe, Des Moines’ Noce Jazz Club, and the Iowa City Jazz Festival. Carson is grateful to be influenced by many teachers and mentors including Nate Sparks, Nick Rueckert, and Dr. William Menefield. His versatility as both a solo artist and collaborator has allowed him to work with musicians including trumpeter Sean Jones, drummer Isaiah Spencer, trumpeter Benny Bennack III, vocalist Max Wellman, drummer Jerome Gillespie II, and singer-songwriter James Tutson. In 2023, Carson achieved the honor as the sole pianist of the National Jazz Band of America. Now an established professional, he continues to play for audiences across the Midwest, both with his ensemble and as a sought-after sideman.

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About: Kiersten Conway is a dynamic songwriter, contemporary jazz vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist known for her inventive interpretations of jazz standards and compelling original compositions. A native of Iowa City, she has performed at top venues including Noce Jazz Club and Hoyt Sherman Place in Des Moines, and has been featured at the Iowa City Jazz Festival.
In 2024, Kiersten brought her artistry to the Rochester International Jazz Festival, sharing the stage with Laila Biali, and also performed at the prestigious Jazz Education Network Conference in New Orleans. A three-time recipient of the DownBeat Student Music Awards (2023–2025), she was recognized as a Vocal Jazz Soloist, for her original composition “Black-Eyed Susan,” and as an Outstanding Soloist in a Large Vocal Jazz Ensemble.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.kierstenconway.com/
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Big Begonias AND The Feralings
2025-08-15 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Old Capitol Screen Printers
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Big Begonias
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: The Feralings

About: Big Begonias took root in 2020 and have been blooming since. Dedicated to creating transcendental folk and honky tonk sounds, the 4-piece band features original music by Gabrielle Kouri and George Spielbauer. Gabrielle, a founding member of Iowa City’s beloved Awful Purdies, plays guitar, banjo, and sings, while George (Cedar County Cobras) plays various guitars. Dave “Chief” Lumberg (Shoe Money, Mayflies) commands the bass, and drummer Dan Miller keeps the beat alive. Big Begonias released their first studio album In Bloom in 2024.

Contact Information:
Web: https://bigbegonias.bandcamp.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/BigBegonias

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About: Ralph Waldo Emerson. Diesel. Morning glories. AM radio. These all influence Iowa acoustic roots trio The Feralings, as do the gently sloping landscapes of the Iowa countryside and the sound of tornado sirens squealing and the rumble of trucks on I-80. Their songwriting reflects friendship, imperfection, magic, and a big love for storytelling, as well as the folk, bluegrass, jazz, alt-country, Americana, gospel, and roots that form each member’s musical DNA.
Their debut EP, titled simply “The Feralings”, was recorded over the course of several years, as the band navigated parenthood, life changes, and personal struggles, and it showcases the power and intimacy of the band’s enthralling live performances. The band is currently in the process of recording their long-awaited follow-up album.

Contact Information:
Web: http://www.theferalings.com/
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/TheFeralings

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Dodge Street Duo AND Hard Luck & the Troubles
2025-08-22 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by KCJJ
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Dodge Street Duo
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Hard Luck & the Troubles

About: Dodge St. Duo plays a mixture of bluegrass, country, old-time, and original material. Max Lipnick and Alex Flesher showcase 2-part vocal harmonies and fresh takes on new and original instrumental tunes on mandolin, banjo, and guitar.

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About: Hailing from Iowa City, Hard Luck & the Troubles delivers a potent blend of Americana, rooted in blues, gospel, and classic country, with a healthy dose of Grateful Dead spirit. Fronted by Roland Racevskis on piano and vocals, anchored by Billy Valencia on bass, Brian Cooper on drums, and Ryan Phalen on guitar.
Influenced by whiskey-soaked nights and the realities of life, Hard Luck in the Troubles bring a raw, authentic energy to their music and is known for their passionate live performances. They are poised to release their self-titled debut album, Hard Luck & the Troubles.

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Jumbies
2025-08-29 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by New Pioneer Food Co-op

About: Jumbies deliver a fusion of Caribbean, funk, and Afro-Cuban rhythms in a high-energy, spirit-raising, dance-oriented performance. Established in 2001 and based in Iowa City with roots in the Ames/Des Moines area, this quintet blends danceable and breezy tropical sounds, perfect for sunny days and hot nights. While we do covers by artists such as Bob Marley, Jimmy Buffet, and Harry Belafonte as well, we play mostly original music from our full-length releases and are always creating something new. Most of our elements are similar to other bands, but we uniquely feature steel pan as the lead instrument and love percussion! It’s a unique sound for Iowa, and a really good time!

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Lou Sherry AND Shining Realm
2025-09-05 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Luna’s Tacos
6:30 PM-7:35 PM: Lou Sherry
7:55 PM-9:00 PM: Shining Realm

About: Lou Sherry: Iowa City Doom Lounge.

Contact Information:
Web: https://dentalrecordsic.bandcamp.com/album/lou-sherry-more-now-than-then
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About: Shining Realm is a psychedelic rock/folk collective based in Iowa City. Formed in 2019, the current lineup features members of Maul of America, Daisyglue, Commanders and the Boo-Hoos. Their music is a blend of 70’s era psych and Kraut rock with Eastern and Afro Beat influences. Their second album, Talismandala, will be released on May 12th, 2025.

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Alicia Monee and Family
2025-09-12 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Iowa City Area Association of Realtors

About: Alicia Monēē is a powerhouse vocalist from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, known for her soulful sound and dynamic stage presence. Inspired by legends like Erykah Badu and Jennifer Hudson, she has captivated audiences nationwide, including as a finalist on HBO Max’s *Second Chance Stage*.
A versatile performer, Alicia has earned acclaim in theater for roles like Effie in *Dreamgirls* and Shug Avery in *The Color Purple*. She’s also graced prestigious stages, including the Danny Awards in NYC and Filoli Mansion in California.
Currently working on her debut album, set for release in mid-2025, Alicia Monēē continues to shine as a rising star in R&B and soul.

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Second Half AND Anthony Worden & the Illiterati
2025-09-19 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by RDG Planning & Design
6:30 PM-7:15 PM: Second Half
7:30 PM-9:00 PM: Anthony Worden & the Illiterati

About: Second Half is an Iowa City alternative-rock band playing everything from Midwest emo to power pop to punk rock. Drawing inspiration from bands such as Modest Mouse, Pavement, Joyce Manor, and the Beths, we’ve been playing together since 2024. At the end of the day, we’re just four friends that love making music!
Sometimes to go forward, you first have to go back—and the only way to pass through the present undaunted is to unencumber oneself of the past.

Contact Information:
Web: https://linktr.ee/thesecondhalfband Instagram
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About: For Anthony Worden, the process of moving past an onslaught of sudden grief crystalized in an Iowa City basement, and—over the course of half a year of writing and rehearsing with his band, the Illiterati—took on the form of his fifth studio album, Plain Angels. Sourced from a period that Worden describes as something of a “social reset,” characterized by the end of a long-term relationship (a development that upended his recent move to Kansas and spurred him to re-relocate to his native city), paired with a series of health scares in his immediate family and the death of an extended family member, the songwriter found himself contending with “big feelings” like “the realization that your loved ones aren’t going to be around forever.” Amidst a blisteringly cold Iowa winter—during which Worden’s day job as an electrician apprentice had him “thrown into installing solar panels in subzero weather on the farms, hog barns, and small towns of the middle part of the state”—he also found himself asking even bigger questions: “With everything that happened, I found myself almost resetting my worth, asking myself—what am I doing here?”
With emotional baggage in toe, Worden holed up in the unfinished cellar studio of band bassist Lucas Adolphson, spending “a lot of time with a glass of whisky” to divine art from feeling. The end result is a collection of ten tracks that’s as meditative as it is triumphant, presented as a loose narrative of personal resilience. Whether it’s charting the hope that comes with starting over somewhere new (“On My Way 2U”), becoming more aware of your fading youth in a college town (“Down But Not Yet Out”), the myriad feelings you feel on a funeral day (“Death of the Wife”) or encountering an ex after some-but-not-all wounds have healed (“Strangers”), the anecdotes that form Angels together create a picture of bittersweet acceptance, uplifted by Worden’s candid lyricism, the Illiterati’s refreshing approach to contemporary rock—which feels as indebted to 70s new wave as it does in early 2000s power pop thanks to the performances by Adolphson, keyboardist/producer Avery Moss, and drummer Aaron Knight—as well as mastering by Huntley Miller, who previously collaborated with indie heavyweights Bon Iver, Low, and Wednesday.

Contact Information:
Web: https://anthonyworden.bandcamp.com/releases
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/anthonywordenmusic/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gPe5xuRWbRg

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Ion AND Alyx Rush AND Jack Lion
2025-09-26 18:30 - 21:00 | Ped Mall Stage, 210 Dubuque St, Iowa City, IA, 52240, United States
Sponsored by Graduate by Hilton Iowa City
Ion – 6:30-6:55 PM
Alyx Rush – 7:05-7:50 PM
Jack Lion – 8:05-9 PM

About: Ion’s music is an inward reflection focusing in on resilience of the worker. Enduring the working class hardships through the Guthrie lens over a sonic guttural rawness that hones in on the prospect of our power as the people to maintain vigilance and hope. As a solo artist he has shared the stage with the artists such as GZA, Blackalicious, Black Moth Super Rainbow, Makaya McCraven, Dessa, Wyclef Jean & Black Milk.

Contact Information:
Web: https://linktr.ee/signalflowproducts
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/SignalFlowProducts/

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: Alyx Rush is a sonic sorcerer who has been busy capturing hearts, minds and imaginations across the Midwest with an alluring R&B/pop sound that beautifully smudges the edges of both genres. Adopted as an infant and raised in rural Iowa, he has never been afraid to be his true authentic self. Casting his spell from under the underground, Rush has risen quickly with head-turning independent releases and captivating live performances at festivals and venues across the region. He is both technically gifted and rawly emotive as a vocalist, swooping through irresistible top lines on wavy production that ranges from winter ballads to summer sways. His sound can soar, swagger and swoon, sometimes all at once. Already recognized as one of the top artists in the area, Rush will push his wave even further this summer with a new EP, ‘After the Last Time’ his second collaboration with artist/producer Jim Swim. There’s no ceiling for this one.

Contact Information:
Web: https://linktr.ee/signalflowproducts
Other links: https://www.facebook.com/SignalFlowProducts/

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
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About: One of Iowa City’s premier bands, Jack Lion’s sound is a one-a-kind gem in the Iowa music landscape. Mixing some traditional jazz sounds with electronic music, Jack Lion’s music would please both Miles Davis and Nine Inch Nails fans.

Contact Information:
Web: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpetXrgq2Fk&ab_channel=BrianSmith
Other links: https://www.instagram.com/jacklionsound/reels/
Jack Lion – Full Live Set at The James Theatre

Summer of the Arts Festivals:
None yet!
