Concert Review: Public Works - It's Cool, I'm Fine - 5 Years Sober and Counting
You've heard of Midwest Emo, but have you heard of New Jersey Emo? Public Works played Gabes in Iowa City on Friday 09.25.2026. They come with a unique sound but unmistakably solidified in their own corner of the Emo genre. The band is comprised of Jake Dietrich (Vocals), Dylan Skorge (lead guitar), Mikey Pellegrino (rhythm guitar), Chase Garret (bass), and Joshua Heckler (drums).
Public Works play their shows like they're at a house party surrounded by friends. The entire experience is nothing short of intimate and personal for them. Know the lyrics? Good chance you'll have your turn on the mic. Be warned, you might catch some sweat too because these boys put their all into their show no matter how big or small the crowd is. They went through their limited but stacked set list including their newest single, "It's Cool, I'm Fine". Even for their short time on the scene they've developed a cult following and it didn't matter the song being played, the crowd knew the lyrics and sang right along.
Jake takes their personal touch a step farther and after their set stayed at their merch table for 2+ hours talking to fans, taking pictures, and creating bonds. He's a man who truly loves the opportunity in front of him and understands the impact music can have on people's lives. He also celebrated 5 years of sobriety the following night with no sign of looking back. Catch them at one of their remaining stops and keep a look out for their debut album, Fork Lift Certified, which Jake proudly got tattooed across his lower back. Want to see it yourself? Just scream out "TAKE OFF YOUR SHIRT" and he'll happily oblige.
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