Ron Carter

>> Blues Alley‘s Czech jazz series continues tonight with saxophonist Karel Ruzicka, Jr. Now living in Brooklyn, he performs regularly with top flight talent, both as a leader and a sideman. Tickets to the 8 and 10 p.m. sets are $20 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> National Geographic’s excellent Rhythm Road free concert series continues this Thursday. The show will feature pianist Helen Sung & Nu Generations at 6 p.m., along with the Chris Byars Quartet at 7:15. Free

>> Guitarist Larry Coryell was a pioneer of the jazz-rock fusion movement of the 1970s. He will be leading a trio during a four night stand at Blues Alley, beginning on Thursday. Tickets to the nightly 8 and 10 p.m. sets are $25 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> There’s really only one place to be in jazzland this week, and that’s Bohemian Caverns. The historic club hosts bassist Ron Carter, who established himself as a member of Miles Davis’s legendary quintet during the 1960s. With over 2,000 recording credits, Carter is nothing short of an artistic treasure, and this is a rare opportunity to catch his quartet in such an intimate setting. He will perform 8 and 10 p.m. sets on Thursday, along with 8:30 and 11 p.m. sets on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $40.

>> Jazz Night in Southwest hosts a tribute to legendary vibraphonist Lionel Hampton. Chuck Redd will lead the group, which features Three Stars alum Lenny Robinson on drums. 6 to 9 p.m. $5.