Young Jamaican singer, poet, and community organizer Jah9 quickly developed a following among roots reggae fans with her 2013 debut album, New Name. The title track’s spiritual references to King Rastafari and the Lion of Judah, along with the island’s traditional loping rhythm, is standard for the genre. But this Baptist minister’s daughter gives listeners much more: her melodic voice, varied cadence, and distinctive instrumental touches provided by producers like the acclaimed Rory “Stone Love” Gilligan. It all helps Jah9, born Janine Cunningham, transcend the platitudinous phrasing she sometimes pens. Read more >>> Jah9 performs with Midnite at 9 p.m. at the Howard Theatre, 620 T St. NW. $25–$60. (202) 803-2899. thehowardtheatre.com. (Steve Kiviat)
EAT THIS
Store-bought chocolate-covered pretzels don’t often live up to expectations. The chocolate’s usually dry and flavorless, and the pretzels lack the requisite crunch. If you’ve been burned before, head to Union Market starting at 11 a.m. to grab a pretzel from Fatty Sundays, the Brooklyn confectioner that’s operating a pop-up shop until the end of the weekend. PB&J, salty toffee, and birthday cake pretzel rods will be offered, alongside peanut brittle, licorice, and gluten-free options. Feeling romantic? Grab a DIY Pretzel Kit for a sweet Valentine’s Day project. If you miss Fatty Sundays this weekend, they’ll be back February 13-15. Union Market, 1309 5th Street NE. (646) 762-2555. fattysundays.com. (James Constant)
OH AND ALSO
GALA Hispanic Theatre begins performances of House of Desires, a Spanish farce written in the 17th century by Sor Juana Ines de la Cruz. Director Hugo Medrano sets this production in 1940s Mexico. 8 p.m. at 3333 14th St. NW. $20–$38.
Philadelphia punk duo Pinkwash plays the Black Cat Backstage with Puff Pieces and Sneaks. 8 p.m. at 1811 14th St. NW. $10.
Electronic musicians Viceroy and Phantoms perform with U Street Music Hall owner and DJ Will Eastman at 9:30 Club. 9 p.m. at 815 V St. NW. $15.
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