The events of September 11, 2001 have left their mark on the 21st century—but how, and why? Are we bound to engage in an "us vs. them" struggle? Is it even possible to position this complex reality in terms of West vs. East, or America vs. Islam? Recent works by authors Reza Aslan and Mark LeVine—also a rock guitarist who has performed with some of the greats—offer insightful arguments on why the proverbial "clash of civilizations" discourse is bogus. On Wednesday, September 10, during an evening of music and culture called "After September 11," Reza and Mark will have an old-fashioned rap session on everything from Islam in America to globalization and heavy metal in the Middle East.

Read Reza Aslan's review of Heavy Metal Islam.

Watch a video interview of Mark LeVine.

Questions: 310.657.5511. Cover $10 (one-item drink minimum). At the King King, 6553 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood CA 90028.