The band Nada Surf are proof that there are, indeed, second acts in American musical life. The New Yorkers first broke through in 1996 with the spoken-word novelty song “Popular”—federal law mandates that every article about Nada Surf must contain at least one reference to “Popular”—but have long since shown that they’re far more than one-hit wonders. Since 1996, they have released seven consistently impeccable albums of tuneful, reverb-drenched indie pop. The band’s current hot streak began with 2002’s marvelous Let Go, certain songs from which—“Blizzard of ’77,” “Inside of Love,” “Neither Heaven nor Space”—have resonated in my brain for more than a decade. Nada Surf will play Let Go in its entirety at Black Cat, to be followed by a second set comprised of songs from their other albums. The gig is perfectly timed: Nada Surf make music for the month of March, with frontman Matthew Caws’ breathy tenor vocals evoking wintry ennui tinged with hopes for the oncoming spring. See this show. Read more>>> Nada Surf perform at 7:30 p.m. at Black Cat, 1811 14th St. NW. $25. (202) 667-4490. blackcatdc.com. (Justin Peters)

EAT THIS

Bartender Jessica Weinstein introduced a fresh slate of cocktails at Hank’s Cocktail Bar with a “Saints and Sinners” theme that’s available through April 1. Try “A Giant Omelette” with vodka, Chareau Aloe, burnt sugar, lemon, and egg white ($14), the “Saints Were Normal” with gin, St-Germain, mint green tea, and lemon ($14), and the “Every Sinner Has” with Scotch, Soho lychee, Creole bitters, and Pastis spray ($13). The Petworth bar opens at 4 p.m. Hank’s Cocktail Bar, 819 Upshur St. NW. (202) 290-1808. hankscocktailbar.com. (Laura Hayes)

OH AND ALSO

Japanese multi-instrumentalist Cornelius performs at 9:30 Club. 7 p.m. at 815 V St. NW. $25.

Science author Steven Pinker discusses his latest book, Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress, which connects data with psychology to show that people are now safer, healthier, and freer than ever, at Sixth & I Historic Synagogue. 7 p.m. at 600 I St. NW. $20–$50.

Israeli indie pop band Lola Marsh performs at Rock & Roll Hotel. 8 p.m. at 1353 H St. NE. $15.

And remember to enter our Peeps Diorama Contest! Find details here.

Want To Do Today sent to your inbox five days a week? Sign up here.