MONDAY >> They put it pretty well themselves, and since it's all about them anyway, we're just going to repeat what the Black Cat had to say about their anniversary party tonight: "After 14 years of pouring you guys drinks, then picking up the glasses, working the doors, and sweeping the floors, we've decided that it's time to dedicate a night to ourselves. Black Cat staff bands, staff DJs, and staffers will be hanging out... more ›

One of our favorite questions to ask local musicians is what they think of the local music scene — is there a community here? On Friday night, as we spotted Hamilton Leithauser and Ian Svenonius in the crowd, it was refreshingly clear that no matter where your music career takes you, D.C. bands come back to support one another. Two bands with deep local roots were taking the stage. The Childballads, led by the... more ›

FRIDAY: >> DCist favorites The French Kicks are at the Rock and Roll Hotel tonight with The Childballads (the Bon Savants cancelled). $13, 9:30 p.m. >> Exotic Fever Records is keeping the spirit of the D.C. underground scene alive almost singlehandedly, and this weekend they'll celebrate their seven year anniversary with an ecclectic festival to showcase their artists. Tonight it's Mass Movement of the Moth, New Idea Society, Den of Thieves, Kathy Cashel, Worn In... more ›

From DCist contributor Catherine Andrews: What do you have going this weekend? Here's what caught our eye. FRIDAY: The director's cut of Donnie Darko is opening at Visions Cinema tonight. Check out yesterday's Live Online chat with director Richard Kelly. Neccessary reading: Salon's "Everything you were afraid to ask about Donnie Darko" Hurrah for free stuff! 9:30 Club is having a free concert, featuring Taking Back Sunday, The Honorary Title and Stars Hide Fire. 21+.... more ›