I presently catching up on my blogging — there are lots of shows from November that I hope to share with all of you in the next few days (if all goes as planned) so they’re likely to be brief and loaded with photos. Those of you who have read the December Issue of the […]
December 2010
Video: Sam Locke Ward and William Elliott Whitmore, What a Load of Craft VII
This Saturday marked the seventh annual What a Load of Craft event, drawing hundreds of craft enthusiasts to the Johnson County Fairgrounds to enjoy live music, countless homemade goods and locally-provided vittles. Those who braved the blizzard-like conditions were treated to the musical talents of William Elliott Whitmore, Skye Carrasco, Sam Locke Ward and Lipstick […]
In Praise Of "A Charlie Brown Christmas"
This post has been making the rounds this week and I had to respond. Not so much because it needs defending, but because I believe this post fundamentally misunderstands Peanuts and A Charlie Brown Christmas. “F*ck You, Charlie Brown.” Poor Charles Schultz would cringe to see that; he was a pretty old fashioned guy for […]
Video: Free Energy Live at Public Space One
Live from Iowa City and hosted by KRUI 89.7 FM, Philadelphia’s Free Energy put on a free-to-attend show yesterday at Public Space One. The event was broadcast live on KRUI 89.7 FM, marking the first in a series of KRUI remote broadcasts set to be held at Public Space One. These events will be open […]
Show Preview: S. Carey at The Mill, Dec. 10
From the beginning, S. Carey has been known for being ostentatious – this is most noted by his work with Bon Iver. Upon hearing that Justin Vernon was looking to expand his one-man project into a full band, S. Carey spent two weeks dissecting For Emma, Forever Ago in his bedroom. He learned the drum and vocal parts; then after approaching Vernon at a show and briefly jamming with him, he was hired on the spot.
Iowa City Weekender: December 9-11
2011, we’re not ready for you yet. Sit down and we’ll get you when we’re ready. I still have What A Load of Craft to go to.
Rant: Who Did Iowa Just Elect Governor?
Before Chet “The Big Lug” Culver, there was Tom “I never, ever look as though I’m enjoying myself” Vilsack. And before that, Terry “The Caretaker” Branstad. Before I go on, let me say that I speak only for myself, not Little Village Magazines, it’s overlords, minions, or lackeys. Terry Brandstad was Lieutenant Governor during the […]
Kent Williams on Noise Radio KRUI 12-04-2010
I’ve been filling in for Vince Woolums on his long-running Noise Radio show on KRUI this fall — he’s coaching debate at City High and travels mosts weekends. The last few shows I’ve brought in records — you know, the round, usually black things that go round and round — and done my best to […]
The Hops: Celebration Ale
Brewer: Sierra Nevada Brewing Company of Chico, California. Style: American IPA. Alcohol content: 6.8 percent ABV. Food pairings: Peppery cheeses (Monterey/Pepper Jack), sharp cheeses (Blue, Cheddar), pungent cheeses (Gorgonzola, Limburger), poultry and seafood (especially shellfish and salmon). Where to buy: John’s Grocery, all area Hy-Vee’s and the west side Fareway. Price: $3 per 24-ounce bottles, […]
Letter to the Editor: LGBT Setbacks
I would like to tell my LGBT friends something we sometimes forget in emotional moments of backlash: We’ve been through setbacks before, and we’ll get through this one, too. In 1977, at age 21, I was told that the gay rights movement was over because of the Anita Bryant crusade. In 1981, we were told […]
Album Review: Strong Like Bear – Seeking Ghosts EP
It’s easy, if you live in Iowa City, to look upon Ames with pity larded with contempt. You’re conditioned to cringe at yellow and red. You hear “Ames” and immediately think “thick-necked Ag majors.” You don’t much like the men of Iowa State either. Which of course is unfair, and Strong Like Bear’s Seeking Ghosts […]

