Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews>> Lenny White helped pioneer fusion drumming during the 1970s while working with Chick Corea’s Return to Forever. Since then, he has played with many a jazz great, and is considered one of the great drummers. He also tours regularly under his own name, and will lead a band tonight at the Birchmere. The group will feature guitarist Jimmy Herring, best known as Jerry Garcia’s replacement in The Dead. 7:30 p.m. $29.50 + fees.
>> The Meters are considered one of the greatest bands to ever come out of New Orleans. Founding guitarist Leo Nocentelli, who has long since left the group, will lead a band through 8 and 10 p.m. sets tonight at Blues Alley. Tickets are $30 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> On Friday, the Philadelphia Jazz Orchestra, a group of all-star high school and college students from the greater Philadelphia area, will perform on the Millennium Stage. 6 p.m., free.
>> Jazz Night in Southwest hosts saxophonist Bruce Swaim on Friday. 6 to 9 p.m., $5.
>> This week’s pick takes place on Friday night at the 9:30 Club. At just 24-years old, Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews is being hailed as The Next Big Thing to come out of the musical gumbo that is New Orleans. Combining NOLA grooves with hip-hop showmanship, his shows are sure to get everyone in the crowd moving. As an added bonus, local afro-funk faves The Funk Ark will open. 8 p.m. doors. $25 + fees.
