MONDAY

>> Local journo-rock band The Surge have a forthcoming EP (working title: Why Don’t Say They Tell You), a pretty thrilling rhythmic rock sound, and a slot tonight on the Black Cat’s backstage. They’re playing with NYC’s Ribbons, a two piece from the Lou Reed & Spencer Krugman school of vocals. $8, 9 p.m.

>> It’s a busy week for big names playing small rooms. DC-natives the French Kicks are playing DC9. Like the equally puzzling Stereo Total show at the Black Cat’s backstage later this week, it hasn’t yet sold out. They’re playing with one of DCist’s very first favorite bands, Greenland. At $12, this show is a steal. 9 p.m.

TUESDAY
>> Local luminaries Extra Golden consist of two Kenyan benga musicians and two Anglo-American indie-rockers who have embraced African sounds. They’ve just released their third effort, Thank You Very Quickly, which the DCist staff gives two sincere thumbs up. They’ll be at Comet Ping Pong from 9 pm on. $12

>> DC9 is doing a hell of a job booking these days. The (unfortunately cancelled) buzzier-than-thou Harlem Shakes, the French Kicks and The Appleseed Cast? Well done, guys. The indie rock mainstays from Kansas are joined by An Horse, an Australian duo that’s enjoying some meteoric praise these days; also on the bill, one of DC’s best named bands: Solar Powered Sun Destroyer. Music starts at 8 p.m. sharp. $12.

>> Tickets are still available for Ladytron & The Faint at the 9:30 Club! Maybe people aren’t quite willing to commit to getting shook that hard on a Tuesday night? We suggest they all reconsider. $25, 7 p.m.

>> It’s a very plinky-plunky Canadian evening at the Black Cat. Toronto’s Great Lake Swimmers will quietly strum their way into your heart with the help of Ontario’s Kate Maki, who describes her own sound as “happy hardcore.” $10, 9 p.m.