Tues., Sept. 10, Middle Class Rut

Middle Class Rut, consisting of vocalist-guitarist Zack Lopez and drummer Sean Stockham, is in the midst of touring with the Rockstar Engery Drink Uproar Festival, along with Alice in Chains and Jane's Addiction. But that's not stopping the them from headlining a club show in the town whence they came. The group, also known as MC Rut, released its second full-length album, Pick Up Your Head, in June. It's full of heart-pumping and abrasive guitar riffs, and drums that make the group sound way bigger than just two dudes. Standout tracks include the hard-rocking-yet-catchy “Sing While You Slave” and a cover of “I Need to Know” by Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers. 1417 R Street, www.mcrut.com.