Monday

>> NY jazz pianist Marc Cary returns home to D.C. for back to back Blues Alley shows. Cary has built a strong following on a willingness to explore other genres, and has released records infused with electronic and latin rhythms, in addition to more straightforward post-bop jazz. 8 and 10 p.m., $20.

>> Metal Church was lighting up Seattle’s dreary nights with thunderous guitars a decade before everyone started paying much attention to the Pacific Northwest. 25 years later, they’re still doing it fast and loud. Dig that faded t-shirt from out of the back of the closet and head down to Jaxx. With Meliah Rage and Bullistic. 6:30pm

>> If Jazz or Metal aren’t really your thing, it’s kind of a slow night otherwise. Unless you’re hungry. In that case, head over to the The Red and The Black, listen to their jukebox, and enjoy some free rice and beans (every Monday, if you buy two drinks).

Tuesday

>> Dischord Records’ latest acquisition, The Aquarium, have been pulling in some strong reviews for their debut. With the two person organ/drums lineup, comparisons to Quasi are inevitable, but Aquarium have carved out their own eclectic niche. With The Hold Up, at the Black Cat backstage. 9 p.m., $6.