This Week In Jazz
>> Of course, this week's big event is the Congressional Blues Festival, which we told you about yesterday. We'll keep you posted on how it goes, but it should be a fabulous show. The lineup features The Derek Trucks Band, Sweet Betty, Mudcat, and Adolphus Bell.
>> Every Thursday, the Thad Wilson Trio plays at Jojo's on U Street. The trumpet/bass/drums trio has an extensive repetoire of standards and occasionally breaks out more adventurous material. The music starts at 9:30 p.m.
>> Fusion guitarist Mike Stern continues his six night stand at Blues Alley. Those who can make it down to the club this weekend will be in for a real treat as bassist Richard Bona will be taking Victor Wooten's place in the group. Musicians and aficionados alike owe it to themselves to check out his playing. Sets are Friday through Sunday at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m.
>> The "Philly Sound" concert series continues this weekend at Twins Jazz. The club hosts pianist Orrin Evans as he brings his intense sound to D.C. The group will consist of Evans' working trio with special guest Tim Warfield. Visit the venue's web site for ticket information.
>> On Sunday, DCist will be at The Kennedy Center to find out what happens when The Bard and Duke Ellington collide with...Star Trek? Actor Avery Brooks, Capt. Sisko himself, hosts Such Sweet Thunder, a program that mixes the music of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn with the words of Shakespeare. The Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra provides the soundtrack for a great cast of singers, actors, and dancers. The show starts at 8 p.m. Visit the venue's web site for ticket information.
>> If you can't catch Mike Stern at Blues Alley, then you should make it a point to see his wife Leni Stern, a fine guitarist in her own right at Bossa in Adams Morgan on Sunday night. Contact the club for details.
>> On Tuesdays, organist/vocalist Bill Heid performs at U-Topia. The band always swings and features some great local talent. The music starts at 9:30 p.m.
>> Those who enjoy vocalists with a smoother sound should check out Heidi Martin. The songstress performs every Tuesday at Bossa. Contact the club for details.
Images from the Music Maker Relief Foundation's and Leni Stern's MySpace pages.