TOP 5 FOR TUESDAY, JUNE 19
1. Scott H. Briam, Lydia Loveless At Black Cat
These Bloodshot artists make it more than OK to be a fan of country music. Full of all the good stuff (drinking, love lost, pain) and none of the bad (overproduced anthems of sweet nothings), this date deserves to be in a much larger venue. See them at the Black Cat while you can. 8 p.m., 18+, $12
2. The Hives at 9:30
The music and style of this Swedish punk band hasn't changed since their incarnation in the mid 90s. Well dressed, perfectly manic, quick and to the point. The Hives think they're the biggest and best and that makes them the biggest and best. 7 p.m., all ages, sold out
3. Newsbabes Bash For Breast Cancer 2012 At Howard Theatre
A local star studded event to raise money for breast cancer research. 7 p.m., all ages, $75
4. "The Imposter" At AFI Silver Spring
This story should end up as a major studio movie. A 13-year old boy from San Antonio disappears. He resurfaces three years later in Spain. What? Why? 2 p.m., all ages, $13 also Wednesday at 10:15 p.m.
5. "Meet The Fokkens" At AFI Silver Spring
A glimpse into the life of twin sisters who have been working as prostitutes in Amsterdam for 50 years. If this punny title says anything about such a unique topic, expect a brutally honest but not too heavy ride. 9:15 p.m., 17+, $13, also Friday at 10:15 a.m.
TOP 5 FOR THE NEXT 5 DAYS
Wednesday, June 20
Summer Solstice Party at Hillyer Art Space
This is an excellent opportunity to check out the slightly hidden Dupont multi-purpose art space. The party will have beer, BBQ, live music and over 80 pieces of art currently being showcased at the Hillyer.
Thursday, June 21
Sushi with Sake and Sumo Wrestling at 918 F St. NW
Events like these make Living Social more than just a deal app. Utilizing its new spaces for a mix of food and entertainment, the company is turing into a one-stop shop for an evening of events. This fairly priced event will get you fed and feature athletes that can't help but make you feel thin.
Friday, June 22
Steven Wright at Warner Theater
Wright is a national treasure. Without Wright there's no Mitch Hedbeg. See the original slow-comic whenever you can.
Saturday, June 23
Family Portrait, James Adomian at Subterranean A
The last Sub A show ever will present two artists that have very little in common. Family Portrait is a New Jersey-based dance rock band meant for self branded nerds to move. James Adomian is a stand up, impressionist and actor known for playing Jesse The Body Ventura and other characters on the uber-good "Comedy Bang Bang" podcast and television show. The last show at the venue is staying true to the 18 month run, a place for artists that will soon be very big a chance to have a party.
Sunday, June 24
Story League at Busboys and Poets
Story League consistently presents some of the best story telling events in the area. Expanding to Virginia, it'll be interesting to see if turnout and quality maintains at a high level.