26

WEDNESDAY

The ska revival has proved its worth for two reasons: It’s far better to have Madness clones clogging the alt-rock airwaves than Metal Lite, and it forces slobby yet impressionable scenesters to dress a little snappier. (You sound good + You look good = Everybody feels better.) The Pietasters have made District crowds feel swell for seven years now with their scrappy blend of rough-hewn soul, ska, and punk. Singer Steve Jackson’s scratchy vox is like the Mighty Mighty Bosstones’ Dicky Barrett’s, only worse; his throat sounds as if it’s a depository for sandpaper, scrap metal, and still-lit cigarette butts. Tonight’s homecoming show celebrates Willis, the Pietasters’ debut for Epitaph’s new Rancid-run imprint, Hellcat Records. With Shelter, Lickety Split, and Limp at 7:30 p.m. at the 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW. $12. (202) 393-0930. (CP)