The  annual musical festival Vegoose's lineup has been announced for this year. The concert weekend takes place in the area of Sam Boyd Stadium on October 27-28. Unlike the earlier two Vegoose festivals that rested on a foundation of jam bands, this year is focusing on far harder acts. Rumors that Rage Against the Machine would be among the headliners proved accurate. Also, Iggy & the Stooges will be performing their classic disc "Fun House" in its entirety. The Stooges in Vegas. How bizarre is that? I can't even imagine a Las Vegas audience taking in "L.A. Blues," the screaming, squawking climax of Fun House.  Other big names include Queens of the Stone Age, Daft Punk, Cypress Hill and Public Enemy. Among the lesser known groups (at least lesser known to Las Vegas' audiences), let me get out front and push Blonde Redhead and Gogol Bordello -- two personal favorites.

This lineup will easily make Vegoose the highlight concert event this year in Las Vegas. On the other hand, there really is no competition;  Vegoose is the only major festival outdoor concert weekend that takes place here annually. That may seem surprising for the Entertainment Capital of the World. But I've been told by members of some major groups that the greatest part of the Vegas market is that the resorts pay bands so well for concerts; many big groups therefore would rather come play Vegas on their own.  Of course, a clear exception to that rule would be the politically charged Rage Against the Machine for whom Vegoose is a perfect fit. (photo by Sarah Gerke)