Saul Williams (Facebook)

Saul Williams, the noted poet-actor-musician, recently released Volcanic Sunlight, his first spoken-word album that "did not come from anger. I wanted to maintain the edge and urgency in my music without having to come from anger." The album was recorded in Paris, where he's resided the last two years. He performs with CX Kidtronik at Black Cat tonight. 8 p.m. $18.

COMEDY & STORIES

Alert: journalists doing stand-up! Ten members of the D.C. press corps take the stage at Commedia Dell Media, battling it out for the title of D.C.'s Funniest Journalist. Riot Act Comedy Theater. 8 p.m. $20.

Mortified Live comes to Town Nightclub. Strangers sharing their most embarrassing childhood stories, media and art with other strangers. Be prepared for an evening of summer love, first jobs and breaking into pools. 8 p.m.