This weekend, despite offering some great musical acts coming to Iowa City, can’t be ignored for one major reason: the World Cup kicks off this weekend in South Africa, marking the beginning of arguably the most important global sporting event (maybe rivaled only by the Olympics). This means that much of the globe is going to spend the next month in soccer mania, and I for one plan to join them. Key matches this weekend include both of tomorrow’s, the opener between South Africa and Mexico (9am CST) and France vs. Uruguay (1:30pm CST). Of course the most anticipated here in the States is Saturday’s opening clash between the USA and England, which goes down at 1:30. The USA has a winnable group in meeting England, Slovenia, and Algeria in the first round, and could have a successful time in South Africa if injuries and inconsistency don’t crop up. However, don’t consider them a favorite to win it all. If they do make it out of group play alive, a likely second round match with Germany would await. World Cup finals are July 11th. Here’s some things to keep you occupied when you aren’t watching football, as the rest of the world calls it.

Thursday
Sarah Johnson, Tender Meat, Twin Energy, Supersonic Piss / White Lightning / 9pm / $5
Sarah Johnson brings sludgy, grimy pop music from Minneapolis on her brief tour with Tender Meat. The real draw here? A debut performance from local duo Twin Energy, featuring Adam Havlin and Joe Ross. What could it mean?

Friday
Samuel Locke-Ward Record Release Party / Yacht Club / 9pm / $6
Samuel Locke-Ward puts out records. It’s just what the man does. Recently, with the help of Omaha indie label Grotto Records and also backed by our own Mission Freak Records, he put out an experimental vinyl release with Darren Brown. Though Darren won’t be in town on Friday, Sam finally celebrate the release of From the Privilege of the Grave with the Boo Hoos, playing songs from all of his discography. Teddy Boys as well as suddenly prolific Datagun open.

Saturday
The Mountain Goats with the Beets / Blue Moose / 7pm / $15
John Darnielle and the Mountain Goats return to Iowa City for the first time since their sold out Mill appearance during Mission Creek 2009. Their most recent album, The Life of the World to Come, received pretty much universal acclaim, as can be expected of this remarkably consistent band.