Karen Briggs>> Vocalist Nicole Henry released her debut album in 2004, and has since toured across the United States, Europe, and Japan. Gaining critical notice the world over, she is poised to become a jazz star. Catch her 8 and 10 p.m. sets tonight at Blues Alley. $25 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Local band Tribe of Vibe is a relatively recent assemblage of musicians who hope to add to the local groove-jazz scene. Unlike most groups in this genre, however, this band features a vocalist. They’ll be at Twins Jazz tonight for 8 and 10 p.m. sets. $10.
>> Acoustic Alchemy is one of the few smooth jazz outfits from across the pond to make waves in that genre. Catch the British collective at their 7:30 p.m. set on Thursday at the Birchmere. $35+fees.
>> Ramzy and the Newscasters combine spoken word, soulful grooves, and improvised explorations in an infectious combination of music, politics, and activism. They’ll be at Twins Jazz on Thursday performing 8 and 10 p.m. sets. $10.
>> Rachelle Ferrell is one of the few singers who can truly straddle the line between jazz, soul, and R&B. She’ll kick off a four night stand of 8 and 10 p.m. sets at Blues Alley on Thursday. $60 + $12.50 minimum/surcharge.
>> Guitarist Pablo Grabiel promotes a number of jazz events around town, and also leads his own Latin jazz group, Bemcha. The band will be at the Bossa Bistro & Lounge on Thursday. 10 p.m. Call 202-667-0088 for cover information.
>> Jazz Night in Southwest features some of the District’s finest on Friday from 6 to 9 p.m. Pianist Chris Grasso and saxophonist Lyle Link co-lead a band that includes drummer Lenny Robinson (***) and vocalist Lena Seikaly (DCist Interview). $5.
>> The Kennedy Center offers an exciting weekend of music, starting with violinist Karen Briggs leading a band through 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. sets on Friday at the KC Jazz Club. Briggs, who made her name as a featured guest on platinum selling albums by New Age star Yanni in the 1990s, is a fiery improviser who is taking jazz violin to new heights. Tickets are $26. Saturday’s featured jazz artist is none other than the legendary Chick Corea, who we’ve seen in a couple different settings. He will lead an all-star trio with monster bassist Christian McBride and ace drummer Brian Blade. Tickets are $60.
