Robert Glasper>> Ablaye Cissoko, a kora player out of Mali’s griot tradition, and Volker Goetze, a jazz trumpeter, first encountered each other as members of the African-European Jazz Orchestra. Feeling immediate chemistry, they started their own musical exploration, which continues tonight at Twins Jazz. Call 202-234-0072 for set time and cover information.
>> A Macedonian native now based in New York, after studies at the Berklee College of Music, guitarist Vladimir Cetkar (pronounced chet-kar) is becoming known for his blend of soul, jazz, and funk. His style has led to work as a sideman with luminaries on both sides of the Atlantic. Cetkar will lead his own group for 8 and 10 p.m. sets tonight at Blues Alley. $18 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> The Britton Brothers, comprised of siblings and Annapolis natives Ben and John, grew up playing together, and participated in several prestigious work shops and junior jazz ensembles. Going their separate ways for college, they reunite tonight for a performance at Twins Jazz. Call 202-234-0072 for set time and cover information.
>> Smooth jazz superstar Najee starts a four night stand at Blues Alley on Thursday night. Tickets to the nightly 8 and 10 p.m. sets are $50 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> On Friday, Jazz Night in Southwest presents a group of musicians who are all familiar faces in clubs around Baltimore and Annapolis, but who don’t often play here in the District. If anything, you should head down to check out monster bassist Amy Shook. 6 to 9 p.m. $5
>> Vocalist Lou Watson is the archetypal working musician. His experiences range from touring internationally, to playing New York’s best clubs, to playing private events to keep the bills paid. Catch this under-recognized talent on Friday and Saturday at Twins Jazz for 9 and 11 p.m. sets. Tickets are $15 + $12 minimum/surcharge.
>> Unlike his older brothers, Wynton and Branford, it took some time for trombonist Delfeayo Marsalis to earn accolades as an instrumentalist, largely because he is a prolific jazz record producer. He is nonetheless a world class musician who will be leading a group through sold-out 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. sets on Friday at the Kennedy Center. Call the box office for last minute cancellations.
>> Inuit throat singer Tanya Tagaq, whose recording credits include Björk and Kronos Quartet, will perform a 7:30 p.m. show at National Geographic Live on Friday. Her excellent band of California based musicians will feature Scott Amendola on drums and G.E. Stinson on guitar. $25
>> Keyboardist Robert Glasper is among the most multi-faceted jazz musicians on the scene today. At home playing with his acoustic trio, or serving as Musical Director for rapper Mos Def, Glasper can do it all. On Friday and Saturday, he’ll lead his new project, Double Booked, through 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. sets at Bohemian Caverns. Tickets are $22.
