Nightlife Agenda Pick of the Week

We haven't talked about Jukebox the Ghost (listen) too much, but it's not because we're ignoring them. It's because we have a bit of a conflict of interest: Guitarist Tommy Siegel was a City Guide intern a few semesters back. Clearly, his time spent here is the reason for the band's ever-increasing buzz, and that buzz isn't limited to D.C. (The band's 2007 EP came in at #51 on WOXY's best of 2007 list, right above some no-names like Bjork, Robert Plant and Ryan Adams.) The trio has a sound that stands out and is known for live shows packed with infectious energy. Two of the most common musical reference points are Ben Folds and Queen, an odd combo, but it makes sense. Ben Thornewill's piano playing and cheeky lyrics recall Folds and there's an element of bombast to the songs that brings to mind the legendary British stadium rockers. Thornewill, Siegel and drummer Jesse Kristin recently graduated from GW and will be taking the show on the road after Saturday's CD release show at the Black Cat. Bellman Barker (listen) and Pash (listen) handle the opening slots.

Need more ideas for the coming week? The Nightlife Agenda column includes information on State of the Union-watching parties, a tribute to Buddy Holly, the final night at Dr. Dremo's, charity happy hours, the Velvet Lounge's 10th anniversary and "crash course on some of the catchiest indie bands around."