TOP 5 FOR THURSDAY, MAY 10
1. Spiritualized At 9:30
Some hardcore Spiritualized fans have been waiting for this shows for years. Others are just discovering Jason Pierce's brilliance on the bands new "Sweet Heart Sweet Light." Wherever you stand, this concert will be for the diehards. 7 p.m., all ages, $25
2. Renegade DC At FotoDC FotoSpace
Photo show openings are usually fun events. No one is super stressed out because the art is already on the wall. This Renegade show features work shot at, in front of, around D.C. landmarks, probably without a permit. 7 p.m., all ages, no cover
3. Carolina Chocolate Drops At Birchmere
It can be classified as roots music or modern folk or string band. Whatever it is, it's good. If you haven't heard of this Grammy award winning trio, listen to their 2010 Fresh Air interview and you will become a fan. 7:30 p.m., all ages, $25
4. Handi-hour At Renwick Gallery
Fan of art class and miss grade school? Want to meet new friends? Desire to put a bird on something? 5:30 p.m., 21+, $20
5. Locals Unplugged Social Enterprise Salon Event At Busboys and Poets
The Do Good Summit begins tonight with this panel at the 14th and V location. Andy Shallal from Busboys and Poets, Robert Egger of CForward.org and founder of DC Central Kitchen and Paul Sagganaw of Zingerman's Family of Business will discuss what made them successful pillars of the community and how it extends to future planning. 5:30 p.m., all ages, $50
TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Friday, May 11
Pasties and Popcorn at Atlas Performing Arts Center
For the short film aficionado/burlesque fan, this event on H St. on Friday and Saturday is a good chance to check out the not usually full of films and burlesque Atlas.
Saturday, May 12
Esperanza Spaulding at Howard Theatre
The Best New Artist Grammy Winner who angered Justin Bieber fans is coming to D.C. for a sold out show. This jazz bassist is getting people excited about jazz bassists. That's new.
Sunday, May 13
"Valley of Saints" at Freer and Sackler Gallery
Co-winner of the Alfred P. Sloan Feature Film Prize at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, this debut from Musa Syeed tells a universal story of love versus home. The director will be at this screening.
Monday, May 14
Kittie at Jaxx
Remember Kittie? The all female metal quartet? They growled and teenagers liked them? That was in 2000. 12 years later, they're much better, tighter thrash musicians. Really. If you're into speed metal, it's time to give Kittie another chance. If you're still into their slower, more poppy metal, sorry, things have changed.
Tuesday, May 15
The Runcible Spoon Summer Issue Launch Party at Blind Dog Cafe
This food zine makes food taste better and zines more palatable. Full of recipes, tidbits and stories about food, it's a cute companion piece for any hipsters kitchen. This release party at Blind Dog Cafe is in an ideal setting. Full of hipsters that enjoy delightful treats and stories.