SATURDAY, MAY 1
Citizen Cope w/ Gin Wigmore at 9:30 Club
Celebrating the release of his new album, “The RainWater”, Cope will show his fans complete satisfaction with an encore show at the legendary 9:30 Club. This LP has an unbelievable mix of soul, blues and rock n roll performed by one of the greatest musicians. His well known unique voice will fill the room and faces with delight. Tickets are $30 Doors at 8pm -LH
9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; 202-265-0930; www.930.com
SUNDAY, MAY 2
The “Nine” Presents: The Ladies of DC at DC9
La-la-la ladies! It’s the ladies of the DC music scene at DC9 on May 2. Featuring Tiffany Thompson, Steph Modder, Heather Lloyd, Joanne Kim, Amanda Lee, Molly Hagen, Margaux LeSourd, Maureen Andary and Olivia Mancini, come see how much these female songbirds soar. Tickets are available day of show only for $9 and the music starts at 8 p.m.
DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; 202-483-5000; www.dcnine.com
“The Youth Are Getting Restless” Benefit featuring H.R. at Rock N Roll Hotel
Bad Brains frontman H.R. and his reggae outfit, Human Rights, headline this benefit for the 2010 DC Marijuana March, organized by the Students for Sensible Drug Policy. Rounding out the bill are Springfield-based rock/reggae combo Feed God Cabbage and “green”-friendly, DC area roots musician Johnny Bonneville. All three will be appearing at the march proper on May 8th. Tickets are $8 in advance or $10 at the door. Doors open at 8 pm. –HG
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
THURSDAY, MAY 6
Angels and Airwaves w/Say Anything at 9:30 Club
After their debut in 2006, San Diego-based Angels and Airwaves have continued to flourish with the release of their second full length album, I-Empire. Frontman Tom DeLonge’s (Blink 182) unique vocal sound resonates throughout this band with a punk rock music sound. Upbeat and alternative, Angels and Airwaves’ sophomore release depicts the way the band looks at the world and is a hybrid of “everything [Tom] grew up listening to.” Performing with them will be Say Anything, an LA-bred band that wreaks havoc on punk rock with their out-there lyrics and infectious sound. The perfect precursor to Angels and Airwaves, see both when doors open at 7 p.m. –AE
9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; 202-265-0930; www.930.com
FRIDAY, MAY 7
Imperial China, Loose Lips, Buildings, Connect The Dots & DJ Sean Peoples at Rock N Roll Hotel
It’s an impressive night of music at the Rock N Roll Hotel as five local rockers take the stage beginning at 9 p.m. For just $10, catch all of these acts when doors open at 8 p.m. Imperial China is no stranger to the local scene and has rocked venues like Black Cat and Velvet Lounge, to name a few. This show will be no exception as they wow the crowd with their indie sound, but with a DC twist on rock. –AE
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
SATURDAY, MAY 8
Emmet Swimming at IOTA Club & Café
One of the best National touring acts out of Fairfax, VA will be hosting a two show event. Starting the evening with an all ages early show at 6pm. Followed by the 21+ show at 10pm. Formed in 1991, Emmet Swimming original line up was made up of local George Mason students. After years of growing popularity, they are still entertaining fans with their cheerful, whimsical yetrockin tunes. Be sure to catch one of these intimate IOTA shows either early, late or both. Tickets are $15. Doors at 6pm & 10pm -LH
IOTA Club & Cafe: 2832 Wilson Blvd Arlington, VA; 703-522-9340; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
SUNDAY, MAY 9
Marcus Johnson at Montgomery College Performing Arts Center
Treat Mom to some jazz and wine on Mother’s Day at Montgomery College’s Performing Arts Center. Legendary jazz pianist and top Billboard charting artist Marcus Johnson will be on hand for a VIP meet and greet for the catered affair and wine tasting. There will also be a special appearance from American Idol finalist Ju’not Joyner. Festivities begin at 4:30 p.m. with the cocktail reception and meet and greet. The evening will follow with a jazz ensemble, Ju’not Joyner performance, exclusive screening of Just Wright with Queen Latifah, a performance by Marcus Johnson and an after show VIP reception.
Montgomery College Performing Arts Center: 7995 Georgia Ave., Silver Spring, MD; 301-589-5550; www.threekeys.com
TUESDAY, MAY 11
The Buzzcocks at The Black Cat
They may be a band best known for their “singles going steady,” but Manchester’s original pop-punks have come back together to present their first two LPs — “Another Music in a Different Kitchen” and “Love Bites” — together and in their entirety. Their California-born, three-chord descendants, The Dollyrots, open. Tickets are $20. Doors open at 8 pm. –HG
The Black Cat: 1811 14th St. NW, D.C.; 202-667-4490; www.blackcatdc.com
WEDNESDAY, MAY 12
Public Image Ltd. at 9:30 Club
Still identified primarily for his stint with Sex Pistols, original punk poster boy John Lydon — aka Johnny Rotten — went in a completely different direction with his follow-up band, Public Image Ltd. Combining elements of dub, krautrock and avant garde noise, PiL were hugely influential in their day and this reunion tour marks the group’s first stateside shows in nearly two decades. Tickets are $45. Doors open at 7 pm. –HG
9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; 202-265-0930; www.930.com
THURSDAY, MAY 13
The Business at DC9
By the late 1970s, English punk rock had become the stomping ground of well-to-do art school dropouts and dilettantes. Then came along Oi! — a decidedly working class strain of “street punk” based around football clubs and pub life. Thirty years on, Oi! elder statesmen, The Business, are one of the few original acts still kicking and remain every bit as “loud, proud and punk” as they were in their heyday. The Hollowpoints and The Screws open. Tickets are $15. Doors open at 8:30. –HG
DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, D.C.; 202-483-5000; www.dcnine.com
MAY 13 & 14
The Infamous Stringdusters at IOTA Club & Café
Infusing their music with a jam band aesthetic, the Infamous Stringdusters, bringing back a bluegrass revival, will be at IOTA for two nights of upbeat performances. Thursday they’ll be performing with Paul Curreri and Friday with Andy Friedman. Expect hits from their latest album, “Things That Fly,” and experience why they’re bring back bluegrass. Both shows start at 9 p.m. and tickets are $15.
IOTA Club & Café: 2832 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA; 703-522-8340; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
SATURDAY, MAY 15
Hotspur at Rock N Roll Hotel
On Tap featured Hotspur will headline the Rock N Roll Hotel on Saturday, May 15 with Gabriel the Marine, Ra Ra Rasputin and The Shields Brothers who open for the local rockers. Hotspur has taken off in the past few years, with appearances on MTV and being recently named “Best New Artist” by the Washington Area Music Association. Taking the term pop-rock to a soaring new level, the five-piece band delivers mature lyrics with an infectious sound that makes them an instant hit. Infusing piano work with their already sound guitar riffs and upbeat sound separates them from the rest. You’re in for a treat because their live performance is just as powerful and enthusiastic as their records. 7 p.m. $12. –AE
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
Sister Hazel w/The Alternate Routes at 9:30 Club
Infamous for “All For You,” see Sister Hazel live when they make an appearance for one night at the 9:30 Club on May 15. Opening for them will be The Alternate Routes and doors open at 8 p.m. $20.
9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC; 202-265-0930; www.930.com
Virginia Coalition w/Justin Jones and Taylor Carson at The Birchmere
Check out locals Virginia Coalition with Justin Jones and Taylor Carson beginning at 7:30 p.m. at The Birchmere Music Hall. Tickets are just $20. For more information about Virginia Coalition, read our article about them on page in this month’s issue of On Tap.
The Birchmere: 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, VA; 703-549-7500; www.birchmere.com
SUNDAY, MAY 16
Photo by Kate Powers
Sugarland w/Jake Owen and Danny Gokey at Merriweather Post Pavilion
This month’s cover Sugarland, will return to Merriweather on May 16 for another impressive country showing. With a typical Cinderella country success story, there is nothing typical about their sound or music. Jennifer Nettles and Kristian Bush combine for a catchy, mature and infectious sound unlike any other artist today. Country and crossover, humble and happy, this duo certainly delivers. Head to Merriweather to listen to hits like “Stay,” “It Happens,” “Baby Girl,” and “Something More,” to name a few. On Tap is even giving tickets away! Email pickme@ontaponline.com with Sugarland in the subject line for your chance to win a pair ya’ll. –AE
Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, MD; 410-715-5550; www.merriweathermusic.com
THURSDAY, MAY 20
An Evening with Unknown Hinson at Jammin Java
For psychobilly showmanship par excellence, look no farther than Unknown Hinson — a self-proclaimed “hillbilly vampire” who began his career as a North Carolina public access television host before parlaying his high camp persona into a touring, horror-themed country act. Those without direct knowledge of this redneck underground icon, however, may know him best for his voice work on Adult Swim’s “Squidbillies.” Tickets are $20 in advance or $25 at the door. Doors open at 9:30 pm. –HG
Jammin’ Java: 227 Maple Ave., Vienna, VA; 703-255-1566; www.jamminjava.com
The Method at Rock N Roll Hotel
Six-piece act The Method will play Rock N Roll Hotel beginning at 8:30 p.m. No stranger to the venue or the music world, this group of rockers always delivers an exciting show that delivers rock and funk in a way that makes everyone dance. $10.
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
FRIDAY, MAY 21
The Bamboozle Roadshow w/All Time Low and Boys Like Girls at Merriweather Post Pavilion
It will be a long night of punk rock at Merriweather this Friday night. Featuring All Time Low, Boys Like Girls, Cartel, Forever the Sickest Kids, Good Charlotte, Hanson and Cady Groves, to name only a few, you won’t know what hit you. With gates opening at 3 p.m., head to Merriweather, rain or shine, for some raw rock. Tickets are priced from $32.50.
Merriweather Post Pavilion: 10475 Little Patuxent Pkwy., Columbia, MD; 410-715-5550; www.merriweathermusic.com
MAY 21 & 22
Photo by Erin Lee
The Farewell Drifters w/Last Train Home at IOTA Club & Café
Performing at IOTA for two nights will be a band with a fresh offering on bluegrass and folk music. Enter The Farewell Drifters. No acoustic string band, this quintet pushes the envelope with graceful harmonies, soothing lyrics and major string skills. Following this IOTA show, they’re touring throughout the country, so catch them while they’re here for two nights. Both shows begin at 9 p.m. $12. –AE
IOTA Club & Café: 2832 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA; 703-522-8340; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
SATURDAY, MAY 22
New Rock Church of Fire w/Mas Y Mas at DC9
New Rock Church of Fire formed in 2006 and has brought a unique brand of punk/grunge rock to DC. With elements of rock, and even their own blend of rap, the sound they form is truly unlike something you’ve ever heard. Come and listen to this trio and see for yourself what the buzz is about. 9:30 p.m. $10. –AE
DC9: 1940 9th St. NW, DC; 202-483-5000; www.dcnine.com
Brad Paisley H20 Tour w/Darius Rucker and Justin Moore at Jiffy Luke Live
That’s right. The start of warm weather means country music returns to the area. Kick off the beginning of one incredible concert season with Brad Paisley when he performs at Jiffy Lube Live (formerly Nissan Pavilion). Joining him will be Darius Rucker and Justin Moore. Catch all three of these heavy hitters Saturday, May 22 beginning at 4 p.m. Tickets are priced from $25-$63.
Jiffy Lube Live: 7800 Cellar Door Dr., Bristow, VA; 703-754-6400; www.livenation.com
Photo by Greg Herris
Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad opening for Steel Pulse at 9:30 Club
Giant Panda Guerilla Dub Squad is an intense roots reggae band from Rochester, NY. Fresh off their tour with G Love and John Brown’s Body they will be opening for reggae legends Steel Pulse at the 930 Club. GPGDS will amaze the audience and try not to steal the show with their smooth, dub grooves. Being described as relentless reggae sound, experimental dub and North American International Body Music, I call them spectacular. Their recent album, “LIVE UP!” debuted at #2 on Itunes reggae chart. This album was created by handpicked live songs that give you a true feel for their crowd pleasing talent.
Their second track “International Mother” starts with a phenomenal instrumental which almost mesmerizes the listener. Although track 4, “Easy Way Out” is bound to be a fan favorite on the dance floor with passionate groovability. Tickets are $25. Doors at 8pm. Tickets –LH
9:30 Club: 815 V St. NW, DC: 202-265-0930; www.930.com
THURSDAY, MAY 27
Michael Franti & Spearhead w/The Wailers at Wolf Trap
If reggae and hip-hop had a love child, it would be Michael Franti. Epitomizing the best of both worlds, Franti is finally starting to get the recognition he deserves. Recently opening for John Mayer’s latest tour, Franti will headline Wolf Trap on May 27th with The Wailers opening. And don’t forget to check out Michael Franti & Spearhead with On Tap! Visit store.ontaponline.com for both all-inclusive (transportation and ticket) and bus only tickets for this show.
Wolf Trap – Filene Center: 1551 Trap Rd., Vienna, VA; 703-255-1900; www.wolftrap.org
Photo by Evelyn Hockstein
Elikeh at Rock N Roll Hotel
Massama Dogo and crew bring their Togolese Afro-rock to The Rock and Roll Hotel for the release of their new CD, “Adje! Adje!” Mixing Afro-beat influences with rock, funk, and traditional Togolese polyrhythms, Elikeh churns out tunes that are as listenable as they are danceable. The 8 Ohms Band and Tosin open. Tickets are $10. Doors open at 8 p.m. – JK
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
FRIDAY, MAY 28
Cobra Collective, Death By Sexy and Dead Heart Bloom at Rock N Roll Hotel
It’s thrice as nice with these three bands on Friday, May 28. Head to local music hot spot and see these three diverse but intense rockers. Self described as “loud, raucous-yet-controlled, politically-tinged,” Cobra Collective is sure to deliver a show you’ve never seen before with their punk vibe and energetic performance. Also performing will be locals Death By Sexy, a trio who combines to give you an unyielding rock sound. See for yourself what each of these bands is about when the music begins at 9 p.m. $10. –AE
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
SATURDAY, MAY 29
Black Dog Prowl, Niki Barr Band, Citizen* and The Killer Balloons at Rock N Roll Hotel
If you have plans on May 29, cancel them because you won’t want to miss this combination of local heavy hitters. Beginning at 9 p.m., get ready to rock because each of these bands delivers a unique yet impressive sound. Black Dog Prowl, although newer to the music scene, is already making a name for themselves with their blues-rock sound. Music vets Niki Barr Band and Citizen* each give fans a relentless rock sound that draws you into their music completely. Check them out for just $10. –AE
Rock N Roll Hotel: 1353 H St. NE, DC; 202-388-7625; www.rockandrollhoteldc.com
Ballyhoo w/ MOJO at Jammin Java
Aberdeen MD finest surf reggae rockers Ballyhoo will be kickin it old school style. Formed in 1995, Ballyhoo is familiar with non stop touring and providing stellar party music for the past few years. Their latest album “Cheers” includes “Cali Girl” and “Paper Dolls” which will be making their way to the Rock Band network in 2010.
The year is looking dynamic for Ballyhoo so be sure not to miss them before their tour.
Tickets $10/Advance $14/day of show. Doors at 10pm. All tickets from canceled 2/6/10 show good for this show. -LH
Jammin Java: 227 Maple Ave. E Vienna, VA; 703-255-1566; www.jamminjava.com
FRIDAY, JUNE 4
The Justin Trawick Group w/Jason Ager and Howard Jennings at IOTA Club & Café
The entire Justin Trawick crew will rock local spot IOTA on Friday, June 4 with friends Jason Ager and Howard Jennings who open for the popular local musician. Trawick, who has been around the DC scene for years, constantly delivers. Catch him beginning at 8:30 p.m. $12. –AE
IOTA Club & Café: 2832 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA; 703-522-8340; www.iotaclubandcafe.com
SATURDAY, JUNE 5
Photo by Rebekah Murray Photography
Along Those Lines at Jaxx Nightclub
Fairfax-based Along Those Lines will be releasing their latest album at Jaxx Nightclub on June 5 when the headline at the popular Springfield spot. Madrone, Descent to Daylight and Rome In A Day will all open for ATL beginning at 5:30 p.m. Along Those Lines is a mix of alternative meets hard rock, complete with an explosive live show and catchy lyrics. Only on the scene for two years, this band has already toured throughout the East Coast and developed quite a following. Their latest album will no doubt prove their staying power and after Jaxx, you’ll be hooked. Get ready to rock. Advance tickets are $10 and $12 day of the show. Doors open at 5 p.m. –AE
Jaxx Nightclub: 6355 Rolling Rd., Springfield, VA; 703-569-5940; www.jaxxroxx.com
