Sound Advice

The 2025 Iowa Blues Challenge at Lefty’s Live Music takes place Oct. 5 starting at 1 p.m. The competition decides who will represent Iowa in the 2026 International Blues Challenge in Memphis. Musicians include Berdo & Jones, The Chuggaluggers Band, Weary Ramblers, The Other Brothers, The Crawling Kingsnake, Izzy Starchild and the Psychedelic Rose, Vorvick & James and HomeBrewed. Free admission.

Take advantage of warm fall days at the Des Moines Biergarten at Water Works Park. The Local Bands, Brews and Bikes continues on Sundays from 1-4 p.m. On Oct. 12, Andrew Hoyt and Oct. 19, Soul Searchers. 

If you’re a fan of the Allman Brothers, you’ll appreciate this band, Southbound – A Tribute to The Allman Brothers Band. Founded by local guitarist and vocalist James Biehn, when you hear favorites, such as “Ramblin’ Man” and “Midnight Rider,” you will think it was the real band. Catch them at xBk Live on Nov. 2 starting at 4:20 p.m. Tickets for the all-ages show are $15.

It’s Halloween month! Hit the free Halloween Bash Oct. 31 at the Back Roads Lounge in Johnston, where Sister Sara performs.♦