Rock Iowa

Smoking Science by Raise High The Roof Beam

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 22:13:33 +0000

Chicago's Raise High The Roof Beam played Smoking Science as we walked through Grays Lake Park. Their acoustic set was tremendous with a whole choir of voices and pop-rock tunes. Live their sound is ferious and infectious. They were the musical component to RockIowa's first Indie Potluck.

Scented Vinyl Special with Radio Moscow

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 20:28:33 +0000

Just a few days away from their extensive European tour, Pysch blues rockers, Radio Moscow record a few tunes and talk about their latest release, Brain Cycles. More Psychedelic sounds, longer songs, and more hair. This is a band you need to keep an ear on.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Wolves in the Attic

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:35:03 +0000

Ames foursome, Wolves in the Attic made a splash this spring with their album Electronic Hearts. Expect great things.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Tyborn Jig

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:29:57 +0000

Punk revialists, Tyborn Jig, stop by to chat on GDP, their new album and Ultimate Warrior.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: The Autumn Project

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:26:57 +0000

The formidable Autumn Project is back in top form ready for their next release Unbeliever, not before stopping by and chatting about GDP.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: The Dig Angees

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:24:19 +0000

Off the high of working the LG Battle of the Bands, The Dig Angees are hard at work on their next album. The boys dropped by to let off some steam and keep us up to date on their shenanigans.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Man of the Mountain

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:17:35 +0000

Brother dou, Man of the Moutain, build crescendoing techno bliss. Enjoy.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Adam Robert Haug

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:12:11 +0000

Coming into his own as a solo artist, Adam Robert Haug is mashup genre artist. Folky guitars with looped electronics and vocals, all done live make an ARH show a headtrip.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Gaiden Gadema

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:08:52 +0000

A Central Standard player, Gaiden Gadema is soul lovin rapper from Des Moines. Bringing asian infused black exploitation integrity, and soulful beats, Gaiden Gadema comes at you in full force and honesty. Produced by Aeon Grey and backed on the 1s and 2s with Richie Daggers.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Finding the Warren

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 22:04:09 +0000

They have been making waves in the scene for being such a young band, but the Finding the Warren hopes to keep riding on a large buildup of experience.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Envy Corps

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:57:20 +0000

Local indie darlings are hard at work on their next Ep and LP releases.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Dark Mirror

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:52:36 +0000

Iowa is known for its varied metal scene, but the strong european influence pulls Dark Mirror from its many peers. A fiarly new band, Alonso and Clint give us their perspective on the scene.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Cleo's Apartment

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:49:37 +0000

Jazz? Funk? Fusion? Soul? I'm not sure either but Cleo's Apartment does it well. Set on repeat and relax.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Cashes Rivers

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:45:18 +0000

Upcoming singer songerwriter Cashes Rivers, with the help of the Envy Corps' Brandon Darner is writing his debut album. Expect great things.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Beati Paoli

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:42:12 +0000

Indie rockers Beati Paoli get us to date with how their next record is coming along and more.

GDP Get To know Your Bands: Aeon Grey

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 21:10:16 +0000

Get to know local rapper/producer/record label owner Aeon Grey. While recording and mixing albums for Gaiden Gadema, Tyborn Jig, and Maxilla Blue, Aeon is making his next solo album Lead Breakfast. Check this video for all the info.

She Swings She Sways

scott@rockiowa.com — Sat, 07 Mar 2009 00:19:44 +0000

A Midwestern SoundA mini-documentary starring She Swings She SwaysIn the humble town of Ottuwma, IA, a small but loyal music community thrives. In the thick of it, we caught country-fried pop band She Swings, She Sways as they practice their craft in their band house. As cameras rolled, the musicians open up to their position of a small town band doing something a little different, working hard at it, having some fun, and ultimately playing music cause that's what they do.

This Frontier Needs Heroes takes the DM Trolley

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 18:54:22 +0000

Bro and Sis duo, This Frontier Needs Heroes, entertain riders on our new trolley. Italian heritage and sibling rivarlry come out as we scoop the loop.

Interview with Wildlight

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 02 Mar 2009 18:16:58 +0000

We caught New Hampshire's Wildlight at the Mshop in Ames, IA after a tour stop with Tapes N Tapes. We talked about their big secret, California on my Mind, and their new album.

Colourmusic Talks About 80/35

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 21 Jan 2009 17:37:49 +0000

80/35 vets Colourmusic returned to the capital city for a show at the Mews, but not before having cookies and coffee with the rockiowa crew. Among the many things we tlaked about, the experience of an outsider band coming to Des Moines and playing 80/35 was a strongly poignant topic. So grab a cookie and a coffee. Sit back and relax. And take in Colourmusic talking about 80/35.

Wrestling With Wolves

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 19 Jan 2009 21:06:56 +0000

In excitement for the upcoming videos of She Swings She Sways we shot awhile back, we're releasing a song from a band SSSS recommended, Wrestling With Wolves. Longtime musician in the Ottuwma scene, Songwriter Danny Wolf started the band as his solo effort progressed into a larger sound. We shot it in the drummer's bedroom next to a set of bunk beds. It was quite cozy. Their sound pulls from a number of genres and timeperiods referencing 60s rocknroll, 80s hair metal, and current indie folk. Here's their track "Redefining the Frontiers and The Grand Facade". Enjoy

Enchanted Ape at Crossroads

scott@rockiowa.com — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 22:04:25 +0000

Minneapolis jam band, Enchanted Ape played a late slot at the Authentic label stage at Crossroads

Why Make Clocks at Crossroads

scott@rockiowa.com — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:35:33 +0000

Local singer-songwriter Dan Hutchinson's electric venture, Why Make Clocks, rocks out their single "Sometimes" at Crossroads Conference.

Bonne Finken at Crossroads

scott@rockiowa.com — Thu, 08 Jan 2009 21:14:52 +0000

Local R&B singer belts out a tune.

Wet Chemistry on Scented Vinyl

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 19:42:27 +0000

So you might have seen Micah and Will in our Oh Possum videos, but this time, its not horror rock but simple acoustic folk songs.

Ski Bunny Suicide on Scented Vinyl

scott@rockiowa.com — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 22:33:47 +0000

The intimate nature of Scented Vinyl makes bands whose sound is harder and louder really re-invent themselves. It's a great venue to see a different side of an artist. So obviously pyscho-billy blues freaks Ski Bunny Suicide had to settle down a little. Sans horns, their sound had less pyscho and more blues with Tony still yelping out every word. More than anything you know these guys have fun playing together no matter what venue or format.

She Swings She Sways, Crossroads

scott@rockiowa.com — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 20:08:11 +0000

Iowa Band Swe Swings She Sways performs at Crossroads Conference, Des Moines Iowa. December 2008.

She Swings She Sways, "He Loves Me"

scott@rockiowa.com — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 19:44:29 +0000

Iowa band She Swings, She Sways performs "He Loves Me" off their album Wasted Love Songs at Crossroads Conference Iowa. December 2008.

Kevin Steinman at Crossroads

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 05:44:12 +0000

Kevin Steinman's band performs at the Crossroads Conference Showcase in Des Moines. December 2008.

Honeybees at Crossroads

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 12 Dec 2008 04:59:10 +0000

The Honeybees perform at the 2008 Crossroads Showcase in Des Moines, Iowa. December 2008.

Oh Possum "Winter Fur"

scott@rockiowa.com — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:42:24 +0000

Remember all those old horror films and spooky B-movie flicks you watched late at night? Goosebumps run along your arms, chills up your back, and what's that on your shoulder? Images of vampires, zombies, alien autopsies, and screaming japanese crowds might fill your imagination. Its with this mindset that you might want to sit back and enjoy Oh Possum.Here's "Winter Fur":

Oh Possum "Under Porches, Beds,and Stairs"

scott@rockiowa.com — Tue, 09 Dec 2008 22:07:00 +0000

Little BIG Fest 2008 - State Room

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 21:40:12 +0000

A highlight video from the State Room in Hotel Fort Des Moines at Little BIG Fest 2008. Scented Vinyl's Dan Bosman hosts. Interviews and/or performances from Maximilian Eubank, Pocket Full of Nickels, NueMoniker, and Insectoid.

Little Big Fest 2008 - Overview

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 03 Dec 2008 00:16:25 +0000

All of Little BIG Fest 2008 compressed down into one neat little video! Some music, some interviews, some hippies, some beer. Good times.

Beati Paoli "Girl Friday"

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:19:06 +0000

After a warm-up by Poison Control Center, Beati Paoli played through their new CD song by song for the energized crowd. Beati plays a mix of acid and indie rock with conversational and yet surreal lyrics. This is track 3 "Girl Friday".

Beati Paoli "A Sense of Urgency"

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 18:14:19 +0000

After a warm-up by Poison Control Center, Beati Paoli played through their new CD song by song for the energized crowd. Beati plays a mix of acid and indie rock with conversational yet surreal lyrics. This is the title track and track 2 "A Sense of Urgency".

Fat Andy on Scented Vinyl 09.22.2008

scott@rockiowa.com — Sat, 22 Nov 2008 02:12:29 +0000

Authentic Records artist Fat Andy plays a few tunes off of their new album "Motel Bottle Rocket" live on Scented Vinyl.

Don't Go by Poison Control Center

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 09:59:35 +0000

You'll be sure to hear all their hits, but a PCC show is always memorable for the on-stage "chandelier swingin" moves, banter between songs and all the special guest appearances (whether they knew it or not). Daniel Bosman of Scented Vinyl and Ladd Askland of Barely Bias Records got called up by Patrick to belt out another classic, Don't Go!

Glory Us by Poison Control Center

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 19 Nov 2008 08:28:32 +0000

Normally, PCC is a four-piece, but only Patrick could make it with the help of their touring drummer Chris (of Chris the Conquered). But even being a duo, PCC can still rock it as they busted out with their recent single "Glory Us" from an EP of the same name.

20 Things Des Moines Needs Right Now

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 14 Nov 2008 15:07:13 +0000

This is Nathan Wright of Lava Row from Ignite Des Moines which we told you about before. From a better airport to graffiti artists to a bike garage, Nathan shares 20 things this city needs right now.

Bryan Baker on Scented Vinyl

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 14:00:04 +0000

Daniel invited local songwriter/singer Bryan Baker to bring some classic vinyl and share some political tunes as the election was mere days away. Bryan has an unique following on the online world that is Second Life. On Second Life, you not only can you customize every possible article of clothing, furniture in your pad, hairstyles, and much more, but you can create an entire personal island with interactive buildings, machines, and hangouts. Bryan found this intriguing and joined a few years ago. Being an avid guitarist, but also having a new baby, he found it hard to make it out to play shows, so he created a venue on his island in which to play his tunes for those hanging in Second Life.

Kaisercartel at the Mews

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 08 Oct 2008 22:34:12 +0000

After hanging with this Brooklyn duo and getting a sweet interview (video link), we caught two great songs from these up and comers. They enamored the crowd, pimped 80/35, and had us dreaming of their return. The first song is called "Okay" from their new album. Buy it on

Tyborn Jig at Val Air Ballroom 08.07.2008

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 03 Oct 2008 20:28:10 +0000

Des Moines band Tyborn Jig opens up for Flogging Molly along with Skybombers at the Val Air Ballroom. A little bit of pre-show goofing around mixed with the performance. A few naughty words in this don't let your grandma watch it.

KaiserCartel - Two-part interview with Brooklyn indie band

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 17 Sep 2008 05:02:54 +0000

Part 1: Rock Iowa interviews KaiserCartel Part 2: KaiserCartel interviews KaiserCartel This is a great two-piece band that played the 2008 80/35 music festival in Des Moines and also recently stopped by the Vaudeville Mews where Rock Iowa caught up with them.

Skybombers at Val Air Ballroom

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 15 Sep 2008 20:56:02 +0000

Aussie rockers Skybombers hit Val Air Ballroom supporting Flogging Molly on August 7th, 2008. Rock Iowa caught up with them in the green room and live in front of one of the biggest crowds they've played to date.

The Autumn Project at Vaudeville Mews.

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 08 Sep 2008 20:24:58 +0000

Meet up with instrumental rockers, The Autumn Project, at the Vaudeville Mews. They don't have a singer and they are ok with that. In fact they they think its for the better. And with all the rave reviews and international exposure, we're fine with it too.

Unknown Component on Scented Vinyl

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 03 Sep 2008 18:41:24 +0000

One man band Unknown Component performs on Scented Vinyl at Mars Cafe on August 25th, 2008. A bit of the interview and a bit of the performance, as usual.

The Nadas help "Welcome Home" Shawn Johnson

scott@rockiowa.com — Thu, 28 Aug 2008 05:40:36 +0000

This one is all kinds of Iowa, baby. Iowa band The Nadas help welcome Olympic gold medalist (and Valley high schooler) Shawn Johnson home at her homecoming reception at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines. Right around seven THOUSAND people turned out for this event. Scott is lucky he found a place to park!Thanks to The Nadas for inviting us out to this great event.

The Lemmings at Vaudeville Mews 08.20.08

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 22:40:23 +0000

Young local band The Lemmings performed recently at Vaudeville Mews in downtown Des Moines. They shared the bill with Kinch, Modern Day Satire, and One for the Team.

One for the Team at Vaudeville Mews 08.20.08

scott@rockiowa.com — Mon, 25 Aug 2008 17:59:14 +0000

MNPLS rockers One for the Team stopped by the Vaudeville Mews on 4th street in downtown Des Moines on 08.20.2008. We shot a few of their songs and they chatted with Scott about their new album, the process of working with a label, and a couple of crazy tour stories!

Naked Station on Scented Vinyl

scott@rockiowa.com — Fri, 22 Aug 2008 12:48:45 +0000

There's a whole teen rock band scene we did not really know about til we caught the Naked Station on Scented Vinyl at Mars Cafe. Played some fun tunes and talked about social justice.

Same Sick Feeling at 620 House

scott@rockiowa.com — Thu, 14 Aug 2008 15:02:53 +0000

Andy and Barrett of Same Sick Feeling gave us a minute to talk their recent tour, the 620 house, and pretending to sing. Then they rocked it. Check it.

Here's My Chance at 620 House

scott@rockiowa.com — Wed, 13 Aug 2008 00:10:35 +0000

We hit up a house show this last weekend put on by the guys in Same Sick Feeling and Studio!Studio!. Opening the show was Here's My Chance. They play some slick punk rock tunes and we caught an interview with their singer Clayton. Enjoy!

Truth Be Told on Scented Vinyl

scott@rockiowa.com — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 00:00:00 +0000

Ben Williams of Truth Be Told on Scented Vinyl at Mars Cafe. August 4, 2008.