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Performance poetry can feature anything from an intense reading to singing, dancing, even crying. The problem is that often the writing isn’t as strong as the acting. On the other hand, there are many excellent writers who will put you to sleep with just one verse. The chosen ones are those who can both write well and bring their writing to life. Jeff McDaniel’s Black Cat Series specializes in featuring the chosen. Now McDaniel has hoarded the best of the poets he has presented onto Meow: Spoken Word From the Black Cat. The disc features a broad range of poetry, from Pulitzer Prize–winner Henry Taylor to local scribe Brandon Johnson. McDaniel will hold the Meow CD release party at 8:30 p.m. at the Black Cat, 1831 14th St. NW. $5. (202) 667-7960. (Ta-Nehisi Coates)