Newton's main duty is to listen to the discs of bands hoping to book a show at the legendary all-ages Ames bar. If he likes what he hears, chances are the band will soon show up on the M-Shop's monthly concert calendar.
Newton listens to pretty much everything, which is evident by looking at the club's future shows.
All Stars, the traditional blues of the Son Seals, the folk of Stuart Davis and the alterna-pop of the Cedar Falls trio House of Large Sizes. But I've been fishing for new stuff. Having hosted such legendary musicians as Arlo Guthrie and Bob Mould, the M-Shop has built a strong tradition among touring bands. Newton credits much of the The M-Shop's popularity to the kind of crowds the club often draws. Rather than come just to get a beer.