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For Rufus Wainwright, music is almost entirely a family affair. The son of singer-songwriters Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, Rufus has been performing unofficially since birth and professionally since 1993. Most of his live shows feature a cover or two of songs and occasional appearances by his other musical relatives, including indie rocker sister Martha and aunts Anna McGarrigle and Sloan Wainwright. Tonight, he’s joined by his other musical sister, Lucy Wainwright Roche, a folk singer, for a few familial duets. But it’s still a Rufus Wainwright show—don’t be surprised if he breaks into a Judy Garland medley at any time. 7 p.m. at 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW. $40.
EAT THIS
Kick off Mardi Gras right by heading over to Bayou Bakery’s first ever Bayou Gras Block Party in Arlington. From 5 to 11 p.m., enjoy live mumbo music, Louisiana beer, and food from chef and native New Orleanian David Guas, including spicy crawfish tamales and andouille and shrimp gumbo. The team behind Rappahannock River Oysters will shell out oysters, and mixologist Gina Chersevani of Buffalo & Bergen and Hank’s Oyster Bar on the Hill will be serving drinks like Parade Punch and Hurricane Gina. The festivities won’t be limited to food and drink: There will also be a parade and costume contest. Pre-order tickets online or get them at the door. Bayou Bakery, 1515 N. Courthouse Rd., Arlington; (703) 243-2410;bayoubakeryva.com. (Zosia Dunn)
OH AND ALSO
General Stanley A. McChrystal, former commander of U.S. forces in Afghanistan, discusses his new book, My Share of the Task, at Sixth & I tonight. With any luck, he’ll explain what really happened with that whole Rolling Stone article. 7 p.m. at Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I St. NW. $15–$40.
Mice Parade brings its blend of jazz, ’80s rock, and flamenco to the Black Cat Backstage. Insect Factory also performs. 8 p.m. at Black Cat Backstage, 1811 14th St. NW. $12.
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