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Threads of hardcore and post-punk history knot through many tracks from emerging rock bands these days, but on its 2014 debut album, Eighteen Hours of Static, Brooklyn-based quartet Big Ups takes a fresh approach that feels inspired, not encumbered, by the bands that came before it. Anti-establishment lyrics (“I don’t need God and I don’t need you/To save my soul, make me feel whole,” lead singer Joe Galaragga grumbles on “Atheist Self-Help”) combined with squealing guitars and aggressive percussion might not be the most novel thing to happen to music this decade, but Big Ups delivers its familiar frustrations in a new, head-turning package. Read more >>> Big Ups performs with Witch Coast and the Black Sparks at 9 p.m. at Comet Ping Pong, 5037 Connecticut Ave. NW. $12. (202) 364-0404. cometpingpong.com. (Jordan-Marie Smith)
EAT THIS
In celebration of the Nationals’ opening day, Bluejacket is hosting an outdoor festival today from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Lot O (across the street from the brewery). Bluejacket will be pouring eight of its signature beers including two new ones: a hoppy Belgian blond ale called Goldfinch and a sour strawberry brown ale called Swirl. The first kegs of a whiskey barrel-aged sweet stout with spices called Mexican Radio will also make their debut today. Chef Kyle Bailey will serve burgers as well as GBD fried chicken sandwiches and doughnuts. Meanwhile, Red Apron Butcher chef Nate Anda is taking his hot dog cart, Frank, out of retirement for the afternoon. The festivities will also include batting cages, live music, a DJ, and corn hole. Admission is free, but for $30, you can get two rounds in the batting cage, one food item, and two beers. Bluejacket at Lot O, 4th and Tingey streets SE. bluejacketdc.com. (Jessica Sidman)
OH AND ALSO
South African-born songwriter Gregory Alan Isakov takes the stage at the 9:30 Club with experimental singer Jolie Holland. 8 p.m. at 815 V St. NW. $25.
Minimalist guitar duo SALES performs at DC9 with local fuzz-pop act Champagne Fever. 9 p.m. at 1940 9th St. NW. $12.
Soulful Mississippi-based rockers Young Buffalo play the Black Cat Backstage with noisy local rock act Polyon. 7:30 p.m. at 1811 14th St. NW. $12.
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