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THURSDAY

Falls Church-raised honkin’ saxophonist Derek Huston now lives in New Orleans, where he plays with the Iguanas. But when the holidays roll around, this former Uptown Rhythm King comes back home—and does much more than just sit around with his relatives. Two years ago, he organized a gig involving District R&B and roots-rock acts now associated with Austin and New Orleans. When they performed with a few fellow musicians who had stayed in the D.C. area, it was one of those magical nights that keep me from becoming a couch potato. Mixing tunes from their own bands with rockabilly and soul classics, switching instruments, and telling stories, Huston & Co. delivered a carefree, vibrant evening of American music. Huston offers another good reason to get out of the house with the “Roots Rock All Star Christmas Party,” featuring members of the Grandsons, Jumpin’ Jupiter, Too Much Fun, and others, at 9:30 p.m. at IOTA, 2832 Wilson Blvd., Arlington. $8. (703) 522-8340. (Steve Kiviat)