Amazing. Seven hundred thousand dollars raised from corporate supporters. Heartfelt appeals by famous people and politicians. Adorable animals. Arguably the best zoo in America. All the necessary elements for a solid campaign. Supremely confidence of a win…

But the vast majority of voters just said no, a loser by 70 percent.

Mayor Michael Coleman and Columbus’ power brokers suffered their second major defeat at the polls May 6 when central Ohio voters rejected the zoo levy – echoing the 69 percent drubbing delivered last November by the voters on the Columbus City Schools levy.

What’s wrong with this picture?

The zoo levy’s PR folks trotted out legendary Director Emeritus Jack Hanna and held charming family-friendly events with cuddly zoo animals. Commercials beseeched voters with the needs of the zoo animals – a new hospital and improved habitat. Not to mention another zoo conveniently located downtown.

On May 17, with the intention of producing a live album, Tim Easton recorded his concert at Natalie's Coal Fired Pizza

JP: How'd you come to pick Natalie's to record a live album?

TE: I am recording most of my shows these days but I figured I would lean into that venue a little more and put up a few extra mics. Basically, I've published 100 songs out there in the world and I think it's time for me to make a double-live, solo acoustic album. Inspired by the Townes Van Zandt one and Doc Watson, who has a live double LP from Cornell University that really taught me a lot. I know it's ridiculous to think anybody would want that much Tim Easton solo acoustic on vinyl but I'm not really concerned about that.

JP: Are you happy with the results?

TE: I haven't heard a note yet, but I had a good time playing the shows so hopefully that translates.

JP: Still plan on releasing it?

TE: I'm going to release a double- live LP somehow someway. Whether it's all Natalie's recordings or not. I'm also recording a lot at a venue called Satori in Mobile, Alabama.

JP: Do you have a title yet?

Jahman Brahman is one of those musical groups that is difficult to categorize.

While they do fall within the realm of Jam Band, their lyrics and arrangements set them apart. Their shows are high energy and they attract a loyal following everywhere they play. After graduating from Ohio State they moved to Asheville, North Carolina to set up their home base and have been touring the country continuously ever since. I recently had the opportunity to ask Rowdy Keelor, drummer and vocalist, a few questions.

PP: You all went to Ohio State and got your start in Columbus. How does it feel when you come back to play?

RK: It's always mixed emotions coming back to CBUS...on one hand it's a glorious homecoming filled with family and friends. On the other, we self impose a little more pressure on ourselves to put on a unique, fresh show.

PP: How many ComFests have you played?

RK: This will be our third ComFest performance. Each one has been amazing and holds a special place in our memory.