North vs. South

This year marks Lawrence’s third North vs. South, the now-annual “hard pop” mashup that brings together musicians from Minneapolis and Austin to battle for fortune and glory — but without any actual pecuniary reward. Each year has marked an additional venue and a growing lineup — at last count, there were 49 acts playing at the 2006 event. The festival commemorates Quantrill’s famous Civil War-era raid of Lawrence, so naturally a few local acts will be present, but the real spotlight is on the visitors. Highlights include North vs. South vets Grand Champeen, Pong, Cat Scientist (see above) and Mike Nicolai, as well as Truck Stop Love, Arthur Dodge and Ouija Radio.