It may be hard to believe, but there are events of importance which supersede concert attendance. To this point, the list is small. I am in fact unsure if two things can constitute a list. Semantics aside, playoff sports involving the teams I love (a rare occurrence) and witnessing the marriage of people who I love are, respectively, the alpha and omega. So, this weekend will not be devoted to live music, but rather celebrating the nuptials of my dear friends Mary Beth and Cristine. This is noteworthy, because the inability to go to shows on Friday and Saturday has turned my world on its ear. These two friends are worth it. I promise. And if you'll humor me, I'll walk you through my week.
First thing's first: No Springsteen. I won't be at National's Park or any other stops on this leg of the tour. No music on Saturday night means not having to make the decision between Alt-J at Rock and Roll Hotel and Pistol Annies out in Frederick. Instead, I'm off to New York on Wednesday and Thursday to see both of the aforementioned acts. The former has released my favorite album of the year so far, and the Pistol Annies record was part of my top 10 last year.
And because music in D.C. still refuses to hit pause while I tend to business elsewhere, on Wednesday I'll miss Amanda Palmer at the 9:30 Club and Pallbearer at Rock and Roll Hotel. On Thursday, it's Ariel Pink at the 9:30, DeVotchKa and Clare and the Reasons at 6th and I, and Paloma Faith at Red Palace which will be happening without me.
So without further ado, the shows at which I will actually be... here in D.C.
Monday, September 10 -- Ladyhawke: Rock and Roll Hotel
The top of the bill at Rock and Roll Hotel on Monday night is a one-two punch of indie-pop prowess. While the musical effervescence of Computer Magic may be derived from universes still undiscovered, Ladyhawke has two feet firmly planted on the dance floor.
Tuesday, September 11 -- Teen Mom: Velvet Lounge
Who am I to refuse an opportunity to Listen Local First? Bands such as Teen Mom make that effort both easy and worthwhile. They self-identify as "a rock band in D.C. playing fuzz-pop love ballads. Just three young men, but with the strength of many more." And I'm not here to refute their claims.
Sunday, September 16 -- William Elliott Whitmore: Rock and Roll Hotel
William Elliott Whitmore sings folks borne of the gallows. Hope and memories of better days exist in the majority of Whitmore's music to accentuate just how bleak the darkness has become. It takes an interesting breed to find favor in songs such as these. It's a unique person capable of creating them.