Iowa does such a great job at spewing out iconic, idealist and illuminous inspiration. Ahzia, a Quad Cities native, established his tone for the year with the release of his latest project, 2021’s Welcome to Nowhere, released in December. He’s an Iowa favorite who has even snagged a spot at the upcoming 2022 Mission Creek […]
Dr. Dawson
Posted inCommunity/News
Nikole Hannah-Jones’ 1619 Freedom School aims to empower the next generation of Black leaders in Waterloo
Nikole Hannah-Jones describes herself as “just a girl from Waterloo.” But her career suggests so much more. Hannah-Jones was the recipient of the 2020 Pulitzer Prize for Commentary for her introductory essay to The New York Times’ The 1619 Project, which discussed slavery as foundational in American history and its legacy seen today in U.S. […]
Posted inAlbum Reviews
Album Review: Jim Swim — ‘New Tattoo’ EP
New Tattoo by Jim Swim Jim Swim is not new to the Iowa hip-hop scene. He performs all over the state, but during the day he teaches middle school kids about the importance of learning grammar and proper English. It is only natural he would take his verbal skills to the microphone. His latest release, […]
Posted inArts & Entertainment
‘Everything is critical’ for IC rapper and entrepreneur TheZeffsterr
It takes many years for an artist to develop, and most are unafraid of the challenges that come with growth. Of course, every artist’s journey is different. Confidence in self, combined with support from community and family, drives the need to be successful. Artists are becoming more comfortable managing themselves and even other artists, as […]
Posted inAlbum Reviews
Album Review: Nadalands — ‘The Vernal Equinox’ EP
The Vernal Equinox EP by Nadalands Nadalands are back with another meditative EP: The Vernal Equinox. Each song truly reflects the title’s meaning: shining light on the ways of the new world. This five-track treasure features vocals from well-known local musicians Alexis Stevens and Brian Johannesen joined with Matt Tritto and Benjamin Buttice. This projects’ […]
Posted inAlbum Reviews
Album Review: MC Animosity — ‘’79 Til Now, Vol. 1’
Ohio native MC Animosity has been making music in Iowa City since 1998. He currently serves as lead vocalist for the Uniphonics, who have opened for the Roots, Wu-Tang and many more amazing hip-hop, jazz and rock-influenced artists. His latest project, ’79 Til Now, Vol. 1, with production from DJ Johnny Sixx
Posted inAlbum Reviews
Album Review: 85 decibel Monks — Sliced Beets
Tack-Fu’s story begins here in Iowa City as a dedicated Hawkeye and fan of music. As hip hop began to get more attention in the late ’90s, Tack discovered his true passion for the boards and later expanded his love for creating music into a production empire. Fu, which Tack takes to mean a practice […]
Posted inAlbum Reviews
Album Review: Soultru & Progeny — Soultru & Progeny
Revenge is hidden throughout the album’s lyrics as Soultru examines past relationships that didn’t end well. While understanding he is alone, he is still happy to be learning from his experiences. Soultru reveals the honesty we hide from our day to day but look forward to in music.
