Francisco the Man isn’t from the city by the bay, so pay the band’s name no mind. Hailing from the sun-drenched shores of Los Angeles, the group of former high-school pals creates rhythmic, energetic songs that form the perfect soundtrack for summer sunsets, even in the middle of winter. These sonic pictures become clear on the band’s earwormy debut album Loose Ends, where tambourines clamor and chimes ding over deep bass guitars, electric reverb, and cheery vocals. Let the group’s show at DC9 temporarily transport you to the warmer climes. Read more >>> Francisco the Man performs with Jackson Scott and Raindeer at 7 p.m. at U Street Music Hall, 1115 U St. NW. $15. (202) 588-1889. ustreetmusichall.com. (Jordan-Marie Smith)

EAT THIS

Tonight is your first chance to try New Columbia Distillers’s new Navy Strength Gin. The Ivy City distiller will host a release party beginning at 5 p.m. at Boundary Road featuring cocktails made with the high-proof spirit. Read more about Navy Strength on Young & Hungry. Boundary Road, 414 H St. NE. (202) 450-3265. boundaryrd.com. (Jessica Sidman)

OH AND ALSO

Sierra Leonean musician Janka Nabay hosts an African dance party at Adams Morgan’s Bossa featuring his band, the Bubu Gang, and Selector Hash. 9 p.m. at 2463 18th St. NW. $5.

Actress Leighton Meester, who proved she could sing better than Gwyneth Paltrow in the 2010 film Country Strong, takes the stage at the Birchmere with local guitarist Owen Danoff. 7:30 p.m. at 3701 Mount Vernon Ave., Alexandria. $25.

Tonight’s D.C. Music Salon at the Watha T. Daniel Library pays tribute to the soul music of the 1970s and Raymond Gray, an activist who created the Showmobile program through the Department of Parks and Recreation. 7 p.m. at 1630 7th St. NW. Free.

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