Steve Novosel>> In 2002’s Songbook, author Nick Hornby described the immediate impact Cajun vocalist Marce Lacouture‘s music had upon him. Your chance to hear this talented artist comes tonight at the Millennium Stage. Free, 6 p.m.
>> Strathmore‘s free summer concert series, featuring shows every Wednesday at 7 p.m., begins tonight with Bjorkestra. The 6-piece jazz ensemble deconstructs and reinterprets the material of Bjork, the idiosyncratic Icelandic pop star.
>> Natalie Cole, vocalist and daughter of groundbreaking crooner Nat King Cole, will perform on Thursday at Wolf Trap. Tickets to the 8 p.m. show are $25–42 plus fees.
>> Vocalist Jacqui Naylor‘s songbook ranges from original material, to jazz standards, to reworked rock classics. Catch the smoky vocalist for 8 and 10 p.m. sets on Thursday at Blues Alley. Tickets are $22 plus $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Jazz Night in Southwest features one of D.C.’s greats. Bassist Steve Novosel accompanied many a jazz great as they would roll through town, and was a long time member of Shirley Horn‘s band. He’ll lead a group from 6 to 9 p.m. on Friday for $5.
>> The German Embassy presents bassist Pascal Niggenkemper and his trio on Friday at the Millennium Stage. Free, 6 p.m.
>> Celebrated smooth jazz saxophonist Walter Beasley begins a three night stand of 8 and 10 p.m. sets at Blues Alley on Friday. Tickets are $35 plus $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> The Grammy nominated Michael Thomas Quintet are familiar faces on the local scene. The bands brand of hard-swinging post-bop will be on display this Friday and Saturday at Bohemian Caverns. Tickets to the 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. sets are $20.
