One of the most beloved and influential institutions in the history of local independent music, Teenbeat Records marked its 26th anniversary on Saturday night with a concert at the Black Cat that showcased four of the best bands in its stable: Unrest, Versus, The Rondelles, and Bossanova. Founded by Mark Robinson and friends at Arlington's Wakefield High School, the label is now based in Cambridge, Massachusetts -- but its DIY ethos and sonic signatures remain indelibly tied to D.C.'s rock-music heyday. Civic pride seemed to mix with sheer aural enjoyment amongst the large, enthusiastic audience, making for a festive, celebratory atmosphere. more ›

Our occasional series, "Secret History," features profiles of classic D.C. albums as a way of looking back at the District's contributions to music over time. This installment finds DCist reminiscing over Unrest's final LP, Perfect Teeth (Teenbeat/4AD, 1993). more ›