Just because we’re planning a festival which begins on Monday the 29th, doesn’t mean the  relatively small market that is Iowa City holds it’s breath in anticipation. In fact, it appears the contrary is true. If one solid week of readings, live music, and talks isn’t enough for you, get started a few days early. Now that President Obama has “crammed” his “socialist” health care program down the throats of the now oppressed people of the United States, he’s going to come to the University of Iowa to tell us all about the good it will do. That will bring out two very large and impassioned groups who will overcrowd and glut the University Hospital’s campus. If you don’t have a ticket or a picket sign (or an emergency) you’ll probably want to avoid that area. Thankfully, there are plenty of other things going on.

Thursday
Diplomats of Solid Sound / Blue Moose Tap House / 8 pm / $7
There are few Iowa City bands as downright dependable as Diplomats of Solid Sound. They heap added pressure on themselves, because unlike a constantly heartbroken folkie, or an ever-acerbic punk rocker, the Diplomats have to bring the smooth, surf-infused funk. If the band is off they can’t just flip a switch and spew ethos all over the crowd, DoSS counts on booties getting out of the seats and shaking on the dance floor, so they bring their A-game for every game.

Friday
Jake Dilley & the Color Pharmacy w. Daphney Willis / Gabe’s / 7 pm / $8
The Picador has shuttered and Gabe’s is back. Looks like a different Gabe’s from the one we grew up with, but the re-incarnation of the once-great stalwart of Iowa City’s music scene is still embryonic. Let’s raise a glass to new beginnings and old friends at the very same time and celebrate what we can only hope is the triumphant return of our favorite, dirty rock bar. Gabe’s is making the celebration go for TWO nights. If you can’t make Friday, there’s always The Flavor Savers and The Post Mortems on Saturday at 7 pm.

Saturday
HOTT w. Liberty Leg, Acoustic Guillotine, Bad Accidents / 10 pm / $6
I’m not usually want to do this, but The Mill has it right:
“For the third year in a row the quatrogenerians of the old Iowa City punk scene will be getting together to spread mirth, merriment and raise funds for United Action for Youth (a local youth service agency that provides counseling and artistic opportunities to area youth). Liberty Leg will rattle the roof, Acoustic Guillotine will shatter the foundations with their guitarless heavy metal, Hott will return to the Mill stage to burn things up and Bad Accident will rile the crowd with their righteous brand of Unibomber punk rock! Don’t miss this opportunity to give your money to a good cause and hear some great music.”