Home of the University of Kansas has a long tradition as an underground music haven. It is also home to the Wakarusa Music Festival, North vs. South Music Festival, Bleeding Kansas Festival, KJHK, and a vibrant downtown scene. The New York Times wrote, "It may only be rock 'n' roll, but Ghosty, the Appleseed Cast, the New Amsterdams and other young bands are playing it with such virtuosity that Lawrence is now perhaps the most vital music scene between Chicago and Denver. Other active bands include White Whale, Ad Astra Per Aspera, Minus Story, the Old Canes, Big Stack Daddy, Guse, and Mates of State.