Imagine a smoky bar and people dancing to the beat of soulful music – that’s the backdrop of photographer Sandra Dyas’ new book Down to the River, published by UI Press.

The Rita Benton Music Library welcomes Dyas to an exhibit opening reception and book signing on Thursday, August 23 from 3 – 4 p.m.

In 1987, Dyas moved to Iowa City and began documenting the area’s vibrant live music scene. The sixty photos in Down to the River capture her twenty years in and around the city. They present both the gritty intensity of live performances and the contemplative moments of individual portraits.

During the reception we’ll be playing the companion CD, which has eighteen tracks by Iowa’s finest singer/songwriters, including Dave Moore, Greg Brown, Bo Ramsey and David Zollo.

Down to the River will be available for sale at the book signing. It is also available at bookstores or directly from the University of Iowa Press at www.uiowapress.org.