Ron Carter

>> A Mike Stern performance at Blues Alley was the subject of one of DCist’s earliest jazz reviews. Tonight, the guitarist will return to the club to begin a four night stand of 8 and 10 p.m. sets with a quartet that includes drumming great Dave Weckl. Tickets are $35 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> Trumpeter Herb Robertson has long been respected in avant-garde circles on both sides of the Atlantic. He will be making a rare D.C. appearance tonight at the Bossa Bistro & Lounge, with a group working under the delightful moniker, Improvisors for the Abolition of Wayne Newton. 8 p.m. Call 202-667-0088 for set time and cover information.

>> Michelle Webb has been featured several times in the respected trade mag, Guitar Player. She will lead her group on Thursday at Twins Jazz for a set that will draw from jazz, funk, and world music influences. Call 202-667-0088 for set time and cover information.

>> What can we say about Ron Carter that hasn’t already been said? As proof that Bohemian Caverns has become the best jazz spot in the city, the legendary bassist has made it a regular stop on his touring schedule. We were lucky to catch his first visit last year, and on Thursday, Carter will begin a three night stand at the historic club, his third. His group will play 8 and 10 p.m. sets on the first night, and 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. sets on Friday and Saturday. Tickets are $40.

>> On Friday, Jazz Night in Southwest presents trumpeter Michael Thomas leading a group with Baltimore vocalist Queen Aisha in a program titled Salute from Yesterday to Tomorrow. 6 to 9 p.m. $5

>> Saxophonist Kelly Shepherd‘s band, Nomad Stories, plays an eclectic mix of improvisational styles, ranging from the blues to avant-garde. Featuring a drummer + two percussionists, the ensemble has a heavy rhythmic component that roots its far-reaching soloists in an accessible foundation. Nomad Stories will play 9 and 11 p.m. sets this Friday and Saturday at Twins Jazz. Tickets are $15 + $12 minimum/surcharge.