MONDAY, APRIL 20
ART: Mark Bradford is known for creating complex collages, melding everything from billboard posters to carbon paper into stunning pieces that have sold for millions of dollars at auction. The Los Angeles native, considered one of the leading figures of contemporary art today, presents a lecture tonight at the American Art Museum, where he’ll discuss his “Amendment” series inspired by the Bill of Rights. 6 PM, free.
MUSIC: You might not want to describe Monophonics‘ sound as just plain soul. The band, hailing from the San Francisco Bay Area, likens its brand of music to something a little more specific: “psychedelic soul.” Check them out performing alongside the People’s Blues of Richmond at the Howard Theatre. And as for the show’s start time? No surprise here: Doors open at 4:20 PM. $18.
TUESDAY, APRIL 21
BOOKS: Stop by Busboys and Poets in Brookland for a chance to hear author Angela Flournoy, who currently works for the DC public libraries, discuss her new book, the Turner House. Set in Detroit’s East Side, the narrative weaves themes of love and sacrifice as the Turner family struggles with parting ways with their family home. 6:30 PM.
EAT: Everything about Go Eat Give’s Destination Mexico event at the Mexico Cultural Institute of DC celebrates the greatness that is the Yucatán. The region, located on the Southeastern tip of Mexico, is known not only for its many Mayan archeological sites but also for its fantastic food, including cochinita pibil–a slow-roasted pork dish wrapped in banana leaves. On deck is a night of drinks, food, and live music. $50, 6:30 PM.
MUSIC: Her real name is Alynda Lee Segarra, but you may know her as the frontwoman for Hurray for the Riff Raff. The Puerto Rican singer from the Bronx croons her very own version of American folk. Watch her perform at 9:30 Club tonight. 7 PM, $20.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 22
DRINK: City Tap House serves a selection of Vermont’s most environmentally friendly beers, including picks from Long Trail Brewing Company, Otter Creek Brewing, and Wolaver’s Organic Ales, for this special Earth Day tap takeover. Beers will be priced from $5 to $8 each, so in keeping with the sustainable theme, you won’t have to spend too much of your green. 11 AM to midnight.
MUSIC: This Russian/British/Israel classical pianist and former child prodigy is considered one of the best pianists around. Evgeny Kissin’s lineup at the Music Center at Strathmore includes selections from Beethoven, Prokofiev, Chopin, and Liszt. That alone might be reason enough to make the trek to Rockville. For those who need a little push, also know this: Kissin’s got awesome hair. 8 PM, $40 to $110.
