319’s Finest is a collective of hip-hop artists and performers based in the Cedar Rapids area, with the name referencing the 319 area code that unites Eastern Iowa talent. This group and associated individuals are central to the local hip-hop scene, often headlining and organizing major local shows, like a recent “319’s Got Critical Tour” stop, which showcases a blend of established veterans and emerging rappers from the region. By regularly bringing artists together on one stage, 319’s Finest acts as a driving force in building community, providing performance platforms, and celebrating the unique hip-hop culture of Cedar Rapids and the surrounding 319 area.  https://www.facebook.com/319sFinest
St. October is a female-fronted dark metal band originating from the Eastern Iowa area, known for their powerful blend of Gothic, Melodic, and Dark Metal. Formed in 2016, the band distinguishes itself with vocalist Monica Wilson’s technique, which incorporates both melodic singing and growl vocals, set against a backdrop of heavy, saturated guitar riffs, energetic drumming, and added keyboard elements that create a darker, atmospheric sound. Their music often explores deeply thematic concepts related to inner turmoil, mental health, and detachment, offering a progressive metal experience that is “not quite extreme but not mainstream-radio-friendly,” and they have released an EP, Possessions, to establish their presence in the regional metal scene. https://www.facebook.com/St.October13
Dark Agenda is a heavy metal band hailing from the Cedar Rapids, Iowa, area, specializing in a powerful blend of Groove and Thrash Metal. Formed around 2018, the quintet—featuring members like Joshua Ludley on vocals, Jesse Albaugh on lead guitar, and Eddie Coyle on rhythm guitar—quickly gained a reputation in the local scene for their massive energy, catchy, heavy riffs, and dark, thematic lyrics that often explore a darker perspective on the universe. They have opened for major acts like Jinjer and Anvil, released a self-titled EP, and draw influence from legendary bands such as Testament, Pantera, and Megadeth, aiming to deliver a live show where they “bleed out on stage” for their audience. https://www.reverbnation.com/darkagenda.
Phoenix Curse is a metal band based out of Waterloo, Iowa, formed by members coming together after the dissolution of a few other local bands. This quartet primarily plays Melodic Death Metal and Metalcore, a genre blend known for combining the aggressive sound of death metal with more melodic elements and often clean singing or shouting from the metalcore style. The lineup includes Lee Perez on vocals, Michael Tucker on drums, and the Howard Brothers, Ben and Theo, on guitars, and they are active in the Iowa regional metal scene. https://www.reverbnation.com/phoenixcurse
Little Evil is a relatively new, female-fronted hard rock band that originated in Southeast Iowa around January 2023, featuring vocalist Nico Merschman, Alexxx Bentzinger on bass, Bryer Meierotto on guitar, and Tim Wardlow on drums. They quickly established themselves in the regional scene, known for a dynamic sound that blends heavy, lightning guitar riffs and thunderous breakdowns with soul-searching ballads, creating a compelling contrast that appeals to both the heartstrings and the desire for high-energy rock-and-roll. While performing covers, they also focus heavily on original music that is packed with attitude and tight grooves, positioning themselves as an energetic local force ready to captivate audiences. https://www.facebook.com/p/Little-Evil-100089078174077
