The Englert Theatre was packed last Monday night, February 25 at 7 PM. The crowd, filled with students and Iowa City citizens, was there to see one incredible woman: Ayana Mathis. Mathis, a graduate of the Iowa Writers’ Workshop, came back to Iowa City to read from her debut novel, The Twelve Tribes of Hattie. The novel’s recent acclaim is partially due to its acceptance in to Oprah’s book club. Following a wild applause, Ayana Mathis took the stage and read a short poem by Gwendolyn Brooks entitled “Kitchenette Building.” She then commented on the poem, noting that it questions whether … Continued
The Best Releases of May: Music Staff Picks
Squid – Bright Green Field Long before the release of their debut LP, Squid has been making waves in the post-punk community with their own brand of angular and uniquely provocative songwriting that has set them apart from peers in the genre. With the often deranged and purposely erratic vocal delivery of singer Ollie Judge and the driving pseudo-punk melodies conducted by the rest of the band, there is no doubt the group has emotional, musical, and lyrical potency. In their most recent works, including the two singles they released in 2020 and their latest LP, Squid has begun to incorporate … Continued
