Saturday, Jan. 28
Deerhoof; Black Cat
Fronted by a diminuitive Japanese woman, Deerhoof pen improbably gargantuan songs. Satomi Matsuzaki and the gang play spaz-rock that couples saccharine twee melodies with cataclysmic guitar blasts. Not for the weak of heart, this concert will rattle your antlers.
Colin Meloy; The Birchmere
This solo set by the Decemberists’ front man Colin Meloy is sure to be filled with Morrissey covers and ridicule. It’s highly recommended for those with an appreciation for literary rock and a tolerance for verbal abuse.
Robert Pollard; 9:30 Club
Long known for his three-hour-plus live performances of inebriated indie rock, former Guided by Voices ringleader Robert Pollard is finally going solo. Expect hilarious stage banter and sore legs. Oh yeah, and great rock music.
Wednesday, Feb. 1
The Hold Steady, Plastic Constellations; Black Cat
Pub-rockers The Hold Steady have mastered a simple formula: slur spoken word lyrics over AC/DC guitar riffs until the roof collapses. Their set will be preceded by the energetic indie rock of Plastic Constellations.
Thursday, Feb. 2
Tiger Bear Wolf; Warehouse Next Door
Animal-themed band names are all the rage these days, and Tiger Bear Wolf are desperately vying for a spot in the club. Their sweaty, Fugazian post-punk is as ferocious as their band name and is sure to translate into an incendiary live show that is harder on the ears than the wallet.
Saturday, Feb. 4
RJD2; 9:30 Club
Following in the impressive footsteps of DJ Shadow, RJD2 pieces together eerie samples and crackly beats to create funky, soulful instrumental hip-hop. Watch him as he frantically tries to man five turntables at once!
Low; Black Cat
A “slow-core” band may not sound like a fun live act, but Low aims to change this. Come get lulled to the most beautiful sleep you’ve ever had.
Wednesday, Feb. 8
Feist; Black Cat
This concert will be worth it just for Leslie Feist’s charming charisma and irresistible looks. Her relaxed lounge pop is considerably more rockin’ in the live setting and may actually move a few tushies. That is, if the audience can keep their eyes off hers.
Venue Information
Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW
9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW
The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave, Alexandria, VA
Warehouse Next Door: 1017 7th St. N.W.
