>> A singer-songwriter showcase featuring Martin Royle of Washington Social Club, Mick Coogan of The Dance Party and Stephen Kilroy of Middle Distance Runner is being billed by MDR as “Steve, Martin tonight at the Black Cat!” Which is technically true, though we’re guessing the show will be a little more earnest guitar playing and a little less Wild and Crazy Guy. Black Cat’s back stage. $8, 9 p.m. >> Redskins CB Carlos Rogers…

MONDAY >> The City Veins are a strong local outfit that’s been making their debut around town over the course of the past few months. They just formed in March and are already more mature and ready to bring the rock than a lot of bands with a lot more stage time. And hey, they have a blog! See what you’re missing tonight at Solly’s Tavern on U Street. 10 p.m. >> Do you…

Earlier this summer, we also took a listen to the newest release from our Unbuckled headliners, Middle Distance Runner. Our Chris Snyder’s fondness for the album, Plane in Flames, has spread throughout the blogosphere. Even big timers like USA Today’s Pop Candy have taken notice of these local lads. Join us tomorrow night at Unbuckled to celebrate two years of DCist and this band on the rise. Until then, here’s what Chris had to say…

Middle Distance Runner’s first full length album may be entitled Plane in Flames, but their fusion of upbeat drum patterns, catchy guitar riffs, and haunting vocals from front man Stephen Kilroy do anything but crash and burn. “Naturally” has a solid hook that leads the listener in with its addicting, cleverly written pessimistic lyrics and rhythmic hand clapping. Surprisingly, the rest of the album veers away from the direction of this pop sound, with more…