You know the holiday slow down drill by now, but if you’re into DJ nights then this week is up to its ears in things that will make you happy. If you’ve got any other suggestions, leave them in the comments.

MONDAY

>> Dammit! The Damned are ill. If you had planned on starting your week with them at the Black Cat, you might want to make new plans, as the show is canceled. Maybe some bluegrass courtesy of The Hot Seats at Iota? 8:30 p.m., $10.

>> Apparently, so many people were moved by DCist Valerie’s Three Stars on Caverns back in October, the band sold out the 9:30 Club. The other bands — Chicago’s Clutch, Russian Circles along with Viking Skull may have had something to do with it too. But we’re mostly giving the credit to Valerie. Craig has a few options for you if you are still dead set on rocking this evening away.

TUESDAY
>> It’s a holiday so big, you need to drink for it twice. Join The New Gay for their Pre-New Year’s Party. It’s free, it’s friendly, and it’s the only gig in town this very quiet Tuesday. 9 p.m., backstage.