PRETTY BITTER (RECORD RELEASE PARTY)

Pretty Bitter celebrates the release of its sophomore album, *Pleaser*, with a live performance at Black Cat. The D.C. DIY mainstays combine dissonant pop-rock, disco, synthpop, and emotionally direct songwriting, pairing stories of haunting and heartbreak with lush, danceable arrangements. The bill also features PULSES., PADFOOT, and THISDOGLLHUNT.

Led by Mel Bleker, Pretty Bitter shares members with D.C. punk band Ekko Astral and has built a broad following among DIY audiences. *Pleaser* was co-produced by Evan Weiss of Into It. Over It. and Pet Symmetry and Simon Small of Strawberry Boy, and is described as a more dramatic, richly arranged continuation of the band’s jangly, dreamy movement between rock, pop, and folk. The album’s lyrics balance personal vulnerability with universal observations, while its breakdowns and bright synth textures keep the music emotionally intense and kinetic.

When: Friday, October 16

Showtimes: Doors at 7:00 PM

Lineup: Pretty Bitter, PULSES., PADFOOT, and THISDOGLLHUNT

Album: *Pleaser*, Pretty Bitter’s sophomore album, released through Tiny Engines on July 25, 2025

Venue: Black Cat

Accessibility and transportation: Black Cat is three blocks from the U Street/Cardozo Metro Station.

Tickets: Price not available

All dates: Oct 16 at 7:00 PM · Oct 17 at 7:00 PM