The National

MONDAY:

>>So, you missed both of The National‘s sold out 9:30 Club shows last night. And you don’t have a ticket for tonight’s edition of moody, understated romanticism punctuated with the occasional howl. Craig has a few loopholes for you, but not many.

>>Last week, along with four other local blogs, we premiered a brand spanking new track from Three Stars alum, The Beanstalk Library. See them perform “The Only Things I’ll Take With Me”, along with some of those other newly debuted tracks (and some old favorites) at Iota along with In Technicolor and Typefighter. 8:30pm, $10.

>>Or, in other local news, Mobius Strip, The Jet Age and The Wax Standard will be performing a benefit show at the Black Cat for Compassion over Killing which raises money to stop animal cruelty. So you can help support local bands and defenseless little critters all at the same time. Aren’t you awesome! 8pm, $8.

TUESDAY:

>>As much as it sucks to watch your favorite local acts disintegrate, it can be pretty interesting to see what what collaborations arise from the ashes of the defunct bands. Former members of Metropolitan and The Fake Accents have formed The Cheniers, who will be playing the Velvet Lounge along with Americans in France, Foul Swoops and Invisible Hand. 9pm, 18+, $7.

>>Or head to DC9 for one of our favorite local acts that continues to stand the test of time. Three Stars alums Bellflur will charm you with their woozy atmospheric pop. 9pm, 18+, $8.