I’ve lived in Iowa for 6 years now.
Crazy to think right? As you know, I love going to concerts and will drive a decent amount for one too. However every once in awhile we’ll get a good show coming our way right in our backyard, and some of my most memorable concerts have occurred in this state.
Maybe you attended a couple of these yourself, but here are my TOP 5 Iowa concerts I have been to in the past 6 years.
- Metallica/Avenged Sevenfold/Volbeat @ Newton Speedway
This was a big one, and I think that most of Iowa was at this show! I had never seen Metallica before so being able to see them on a massive raceway was a pretty epic experience. I think they charged me for water if I’m correct though…that kinda sucked. Either way, something like this DOES NOT come to Iowa much, so when Metallica made there way to Iowa? We showed up.
- Dope Reunion Show @ Spicoli’s Reverb
I have been a Dope fan for years, and seeing ANY band at Spicoli’s was a treat…simply cause you could get up front NO problem! When Dope was doing their crowdfunding for their upcoming live album, they asked where they should tour too…which I replied Waterloo, IA…a simple comment that would likely be passed over. However, they didn’t pass it over as they booked a show at Spicoli’s! Seeing Acey Slade, Virus, Edsel, and Racy Shay up close was an experience….those guys have always had a tight sound.
- Knotfest @ National Balloon Fest Grounds
All of the logistical problems aside? This show was pretty fantastic. When I was not dying from dehydration? Bands like Lamb of God, Megadeth, Slipknot, Gojira, Trivium, just BROUGHT the show to Iowa. I hope Knotfest happens again here and they do address the issues that they had, cause it was a worthwhile show!
- Avenged Sevenfold @ US Cellular Center (Now Alliant Energy Powerhouse)
What an amazing show this was…I had seen A7X plenty of times in a small club, big rock festival, and arenas…but something about this show was epic to see. The crowd vibe was intoxicating, and the visuals that the band had were top notch. No pyro needed, just rock and a mind blowing visual show where even a Space Man came through the stage.
- Pop Evil @ Spicoli’s Reverb
How could I have a list like this and NOT have Pop Evil in it? Anytime these guys come to town, I make sure to try and take some time with them. Before the show, we went go karting, got some McD’s, and then on with the show. I ended up joining them on stage for ‘100 in a 55.’ Personal fun aside, they played their most recent album which just rocked and it felt like a homecoming, seeing my hometown band at my new hometown.
PLENTY more concerts to experience in my life here in Iowa….so…keep bringing them!
