Ah, music festivals. The sights, the wonderful sounds, the obnoxious people, the drunken revelers, the ridiculous outfits. They are a key part of human existence for most people.  We in central Iowa are spoiled with music. Wells Fargo attracts popular musicians, and the local acts are a source for quality (though sometimes bizarre) acts.

The largest music festival around here is 80/35, an event held in Des Moines on July 6th and 7th. Sponsored by U.S. Cellular, it traditionally brings in upcoming artists. Previous acts have included The Roots, The Flaming Lips, Public Enemy, and Modest Mouse. This year, nameliners include the Ames-based Mumfords, alt-rock Dinosaur Jr, the bluegrass-rooted Leftover Salmon, and reggae-rock The Sundogs.