Bad news first: The much-anticipated Babes in Toyland reunion will not be launched at the Lady Parts Justice party here on Sept. 27, as the band members had previously discussed.

Now the good news: The lineup for LPJ's so-called V to Shining V rally at the Amsterdam Bar and Hall in St. Paul – part of a network of shows happening that night around the country -- is mighty fine even without the Babes. The Jayhawks' Gary Louris, Marc Perlman and Karen Grotberg, the Prairie Fire Lady Choir, Desdamona, Maria Isa, Lucy Michelle, Mayda and the Clash tribute band Rude Girl are all lined up to perform in support of reproductive rights and other issues facing women in upcoming elections. The event is free, but organizers are asking that you sign up and show your support.

Co-founded by Minnesota comic Lizz Winstead -- who will be home for next weekend's event and serve as host -- the Lady Part Justice organization is throwing its so-called V to Shining V rallies (I don't think the V is for "Victory") in Los Angeles and many other cities that night, including another at the Contented Cow in Northfield.

Oh, and more good news: The Babes in Toyland reunion really is happening, just not at the Amsterdam on the 27th. Kat Bjelland, Lori Barbero and Maureen Herman have been rehearsing in Los Angeles of late, and Herman even posted a sample set list in one of several reunion-teasing Facebook postings of late.