The musicians in Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou sing in Fon and French and sometime play Vodun-derived rhythms, but familiarity with Benin’s languages and musical traditions isn’t required to appreciate this veteran band’s timeless dance music. Orchestre Poly-Rythmo formed in the 1960s and became popular throughout West Africa with its blend of local styles, James Brown funk, Congolese guitar grooves, Afrobeat brass, and Latin salsa. The group never toured outside Africa during their prime in the 1970s, but it’s finally begun to rectify that. Read more>>> Orchestre Poly-Rythmo de Cotonou performs at 7:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. at The Hamilton, 600 14th St. NW. $22.50–$38. thehamiltondc.com. (202) 787-1000. (Steve Kiviat)

EAT THIS

With entrees like shrimp carpaccio and filet mignon au poivre, $69 (almost) sounds like nothing for this five-course meal at Chef Geoff’s Downtown. Get some liquid courage to splurge a little tonight: Sip a different glass of wine with each dish. Maybe get a friend to drive home, though. Purchase tickets here. “Terroir Selections Wine Dinner” runs from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at Chef Geoff’s Downtown, 1301 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. (202) 464-4461. (Stephanie Haven)

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