>> Blues Alley's Christmas music extravaganza continues tonight with The Redd Brothers, a group led by vibraphonist Chuck Redd and pianist Robert Redd. Sets are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. Tickets are $18 + $12.50 surcharge/minimum.

>> If smooth jazz is your thing, head down to the Birchmere tonight to hear Boney James play selections off his latest release, Christmas Present. Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. show are sold out, but that's what Craigslist is for, right?

>> Guitarist Alex Pinto, a D.C. native and now an MFA student at CalArts, comes to Twins Jazz this Thursday. His band will include local veteran saxophonist Paul Carr, drummer Russell Carter, and Le Loup's Dan Ryan on bass. Call (202) 234-0072 for set time and cover information.

>> The smooth side of jazz comes to Blues Alley on Thursday as saxophonist Marion Meadows takes the stage for a four night stand with daily 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are $25 + $12.50 surcharge/minimum. Advance purchase required.

>> The pick of the week is Trio TAQ (pictured), a group that has been making waves in the jazz community. Comprised of Polish pianist Marcin Masecki, Canadian bassist Garth Stevenson, and Israeli drummer Ziv Ravitz, the group comes to Bohemian Caverns this Friday. Tickets to the 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. sets are $15.

>> Busy local saxophonist Antonio Parker comes to Twins Jazz on Friday for 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. sets. Tickets are $15.

>> Vocalist/actress Cynda Williams (pictured), a star of Spike Lee's Mo' Better Blues, comes to Bohemian Caverns this Saturday for 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. sets and an early 7 p.m. set on Sunday. Tickets are $15.

>> Marty Nau, former lead altoist and conductor of the Navy Commodores, brings his group to Twins Jazz on Saturday for 9 p.m. and 11 p.m. sets. $15.

>> Well, we're not really sure there's any need for more smooth jazz Christmas music this week, but if you still haven't gotten your fill, head over to the Millennium Stage this Sunday to check out Prelude. Formed in 1978 by trumpeter Dave Detwiler, the band will play straight-ahead and smooth jazz arrangements of holiday classics. 6 p.m. Free

>> On Sunday night, head over to Bossa Bistro & Lounge to catch Improviso, one of the club's many fine regular acts. 9:30 p.m. Call (202) 667-0088 for cover information.

>> Every Monday, Three Stars alum Thad Wilson leads his jazz orchestra at Bohemian Caverns. 8 p.m. $5 + two drink minimum.

>> Presumably many of you will be spending time with loved ones on Christmas Day, but if you're looking for some music, consider a visit to the Millennium Stage for the 10th Annual Christmas Day Jazz Jam, where D.C.'s finest will be playing. Performers will include host/vibraphonist Chuck Redd, pianist Robert Redd, drummer Lenny Robinson, trumpeter Tom Williams, bassist James King, and vocalist Delores Williams. Free. 6 p.m.