This Week in Jazz
Davell Crawford |
>> Tonight, the Millennium Stage will feature Norwegian Visions. The duo of bassist Eivind Opsvik and tenor saxophonist Håkon Kornstad produce their distinctive brand of avant-garde jazz. 6 p.m., Free.
>> While D.C.'s jazz scene is steadily growing, it's blues scene is more limited. Bobby Parker is one of the area's more established artists in this genre, having played with the likes of Fats Domino, Bo Diddley, Sam Cooke, and Jackie Wilson. He will be playing Christmas show tonight at Blues Alley with 8 and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are $20 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Vibraphonist Tom Beckham is one of the many local musicians deserving of wider recognition. The 40-year old jazzer will celebrate the release of his latest, Rebound, by leading a quartet on Thursday night at Twins Jazz. Call 202-234-0072 for set time and cover information.
>> Bohemian Caverns is the place to be this Thursday through Sunday. The "Piano Prince of New Orleans," Davell Crawford is becoming a force in American roots music. His infectious and funky gumbo of gospel, R&B, and jazz will be on display with nightly 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. sets. As an extra treat, the shows will feature the legendary Roberta Flack as a special guest. Tickets are $30 in advance and $35 at the door.
>> Another son of N'awlins, legend Dr.John, makes his annual visit to Blues Alley with a four night stand beginning on Thursday. Tickets to the daily 8 and 10 p.m. sets are a pricey $50 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Saxophonist Luis Faife is a native of Cuba, but has become a fixture on the local jazz scene. He will be performing at Twins Jazz this Friday and Saturday with a quartet that includes the area's best Latin jazz rhythm section, brothers Alejandro and Leonardo Lucini. Tickets to the 9 and 11 p.m. sets are $18.
Lena Seikaly |
>> Local vocalist Pam Parker is becoming a regular presence on the D.C. circuit. She often employs the city's best to accompany her and the group will be playing 8 and 10 p.m. sets on Sunday at Blues Alley. Tickets are $18 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Twins Jazz also features an up-and-coming vocalist on Sunday night. Lena Seikaly has studied with greats such as bassist Christian McBride and her classic jazz sound has been a featured at many national and international venues. Call 202-234-0072 for set times and cover information.
>> Talented young pianist Eldar Djangirov, a native of Kyrgyzstan, landed a contract with a major label and received a Grammy nomination before he could have a drink. He will bring his modern jazz sensibility to Blues Alley on Monday for 8 and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are $25 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Those seeking a different sort of international sound should pay a visit to the Bossa Bistro & Lounge on Monday night to catch Guatemalan singer/songwriter Alejandro Alegria, who will be celebrating the release of his first album, Cuesta Arriba. 9:30 p.m. Call 202-667-0088 for cover information.
>> Local jazz-funksters Mojai, a band that includes Three Stars alum John Lee and Le Loup bassist Dan Ryan, will be at the Bossa Bistro & Lounge on Tuesday. 9:30 p.m. No cover.