This Week in Jazz
>> Tonight, the Bossa Bistro & Lounge features two bands. Alfred Mojica's Latin Jazz Project plays downstairs, while Mobius brings the funk upstairs. The music starts at 10 p.m. on both levels, no cover.
>> Of course, it's Valentine's Day on Thursday, and while some of us might be on the verge of setting a record for consecutive V-Days as a single person, we also recognize there are those who want to have a night out with that special someone. Jazz loving couples should head on over to the venerable Twins Jazz on Thursday for this week's pick. Fantastic local vocalist Felicia Carter (pictured) will take the stage for three nights. Her band will feature a lineup of stellar local musicians that will include pianist Bob Butta, drummer Frank Russo, monster bassist Amy Shook, and guitarist Donato Soviero. Thursday night's sets are at 8 and 10 p.m. while the weekend sets are at 9 and 11 p.m. Tickets are $15.
>> Bohemian Caverns will be hosting its own Valentine's Day shindig featuring pianist/vocalist Terrence Cunningham. Tickets are $45 for the 7 p.m. show and include a three-course dinner and a glass of wine.
>> If you want a slightly less schmaltzy option for your Valentine's Day, consider heading over to Bossa to check out local keyboardist Will Rast, who is fresh off an Australian tour as a sideman with R&B sensation Mya. 10 p.m. No cover.
>> Jazz Night in Southwest is one of this town's best bargains. This Friday, the concert series will feature a "D.C. Master Jam" with a band featuring pianist Wade Beach, a member of Three Stars alums The Jazz Update, drummer Bertell Knox, and others. 6 to 9 p.m. $5
>> On Friday and Saturday, the Alliance Francaise presents Parisian pianist Phillipe Duchemin, whose style has been compared to the great Oscar Peterson. Sets are at 9 and 11 p.m. Tickets are $22 and $18 for Alliance members.
>> On Sunday, Jimmy Sommers and the Jazz Soul Collective hit the Birchmere at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $29.50 + Ticketmaster fees.
>> Percussionist/vocalist Vinx has toured and performed with the likes of Sting and Peter Gabriel. He's at Bohemian Caverns on Sunday for 6:30 and 8:30 p.m. sets. Tickets are $20.
>> Local drummer Byron McWilliams leads a group this Sunday at Bossa. 9:30 p.m. No cover.
>> Smooth jazz lovers should check out Blues Alley next week as the club welcomes vocalist James Daniels and Phaze II on Monday and saxophonist Al Williams on Tuesday. Tickets are $18 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> The Monterey Jazz Festival assembled an all-star band to tour in celebration of its 50th anniversary. The group comes to the Strathmore next Tuesday for an 8 p.m. show. The ensemble features trumpeter Terence Blanchard, vocalist Nnenna Freelon, and others. Tickets are $25-$45.
Photo by Rodrigo Rovira from Felicia Carter's website