The daily digest of Twin Cities culture | Secrets of the City

SPECIAL EVENT
IWPS Showdown Slam

If you've never been to the monthly Soap Boxing poetry slam at the Artists' Quarter, tonight is definitely the perfect time to remedy that. Eight of the Twin Cities most promising poets gather for the final battle to decide who will be the official St. Paul rep at the Individual World Poetry Slam Championships in October. Listen in on four rounds of silver-tongued poetic showdowns containing one round each of 4 minute, 3 minute, 2 minute and 1 minute poems. Feel free to rock a black beret and sip some scotch in a dark corner while you watch -- it is the Artists' Quarter after all.

8 p.m., Artists' Quarter, 408 St. Peter Street, Downtown St.Paul, $5

MUSIC
Something Else: Kinks Night

It's a British Invasion at the Sample Room! Head down to the cozy Northeast noshery for an evening of classic Brit-rock, tasty food, and maybe even a glass or two of vino. Kinks aficionado Ben Sommers Bachman will be spinning hits and rare gems from the band's extensive repertoire well into the night. Enjoy happy hour specials including $2 taps, $4 rails and house wines, plus $2 & $3 food sample plates.

10 p.m. to 1 a.m., Sample Room, 2124 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis, Free

MUSIC
Punk Bowl Monday

Who says that heading into the work week with damaged ear drums is a bad thing? Make your way to South Minneapolis bowl-o-rama Memory Lanes tonight for a healthy dose of loud and live punk rock n' roll!  Featuring Arizona's own Francis Harold & The Holograms, who reminds us of a more screamy version of early 80s Sonic Youth,  as well as ear-searing locals The Sinks, Les Deux Maggots, and Sharp Teeth. The bands will tear it up live from a stage in the middle of the lanes as you bowl and knock back a few PBR Tall Boys (on special for a mere $2.50). Also enjoy specials on Jameson, $1 mini-burgers, and $2 bowling games. Hardcore recession proof!

10 p.m., Memory Lanes, 2520 26th Avenue S., Minneapolis, Free ($2 to bowl)