The Mancuso-Suzda Project

>> One of the freshest jazz drummers to emerge in the past decade, Ari Hoenig leads a burnin’ trio through 8 and 10 p.m. sets on Wednesday at Blues Alley. Tickets are $20 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> Three Stars alums The Mancuso-Suzda Project will host a CD release party + performance on Wednesday at the Mansion at Strathmore. The show will include special guest MC Christylez Bacon and vibist Chuck Redd. Tickets to the 7:30 p.m. show are $15 and must be purchased in advance.

>> Veteran guitarist Jimmy Bruno pays a visit to Blues Alley on Thursday for 8 and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are $25 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> Jazz-funksters Mocean Worker delivered a strong, albeit under-attended, set last year at the 9:30 Club. On Thursday, the group will hit 18th Street Lounge. As with many a night at ESL, no word on when the show will start or what the cover will be.

>> Guitarist Leni Stern brings her Africa Project, a group fusing jazz and West African styles, to Bossa Bistro & Lounge on Thursday. 10 p.m. No cover

>> If you like your jazz to be a little more smooth, check out the king of smooth jazz, Kenny G on Thursday at Wolf Trap. 8 p.m. $25-$42

>> Legendary blues harmonica master James Cotton will begin a three night stand this Friday at Blues Alley. Not only is he a legend on the mouth organ, but the 73-year old has a reputation for having one of the tightest bands on the blues circuit. Tickets to the 8 and 10 p.m. sets are $25 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge. Advance purchase required.