Although the lineup tends to evolve, it is always fronted by humorist Dave Barry, who’s well known for trying to live his rock star fantasies.

This year’s team will have the musical guidance of Roger McGuinn and there is always a chance of catching a celebrity or two (Steve Martin and Robin Williams have been known to make appearances on stage).

The lineup includes bestselling authors Amy Tan, Scott Turow, Mitch Albom, Roy Blount Jr., Ridley Pearson, Greg Iles, Kathi Goldmark and Frank McCourt.

“We are going to rock the nation’s Heartland so hard there could be bruising as far away as the nation’s Spleenland, and possibly even the nation’s Kidneyland!” Barry said in a statement.

Unfortunately, the rocking will only take place in four cities – St. Louis, Chicago, Cleveland and Detroit – October 26-30. Dubbed WannaPalooza 2004, the Remainders’ tour benefits America SCORES, a national after-school program that uses soccer and poetry to inspire literacy, civic responsibility and healthy living among urban, public-school kids.

The day after the St. Louis gig, the group will host a special event, “Besides The Music: In Conversation with the Rock Bottom Remainders” at Powell Hall.