The Last Poets

>> A long time member of the U.S. Army Blues, and an alum of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, trumpeter Tom Williams has long been a familiar presence on the local scene. He’ll be at Blues Alley tonight, and his 8 and 10 p.m. sets will feature vocalist Sheila Ford. Tickets are $18 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> DCist readers know that we’re big fans of trumpeter Terence Blanchard. The New Orleans native will begin a four night stand at Blues Alley on Thursday. Tickets to the 8 and 10 p.m. sets are $35 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.

>> Malian griot master Cheick Hamala Diabate will lead a group on Thursday at the Bossa Bistro & Lounge. The band will feature Bossa owner Rob Coltun on guitar. 10 p.m., no cover.

>> The Washington Post GoingOutGuide.com’s Summer Concerts International Beat Night takes place on Friday at the Carter Barron Amphitheater. The show will feature local afro-funk groups Chopteeth and The Funk Ark, along with salsa kings Sin Miedo. 7 p.m. Free tickets available at the Carter Barron box office on the day of the show, or at The Washington Post building on 15th street in advance.

>> Pianist Greg Lamont will lead his trio this week at Jazz Night in Southwest. 6 to 9 p.m. $5

>> HR-57 hosts saxophonist Antonio Parker this Friday and Saturday. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. $12

>> Area native Andrea Wood is an up-and-coming vocalist who holds weekend engagements regularly at Twins Jazz. She’ll return to the club this Friday and Saturday for 9 and 11 p.m. sets. Tickets are $15 + $12 drink minimum/surcharge.

>> Com Voce, a group led by vocalist Margaret Grebowicz has asoothing and dreamlike sound that blends the best of songwriting craft with impeccable musicianship. The band will play 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. sets this Friday and Saturday at Bohemian Caverns. Tickets are $18.