While there are some great shows coming up in January, this week is still subject to holiday doldrums. Here are a few shows to check out. >> Tomorrow, vocalist/pianist Mose Allison comes to Blues Alley to begin a four night stand with daily 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. sets. It is common for touring jazz acts to hire local rhythm sections, and concert goers will be treated to two of D.C.’s finest in bassist Tommy…
>> Tonight’s a big night for music, beginning with a celebration of one of the great musicians of the 20th century, Frank Zappa. His son, Dweezil, leads a group of Zappa-alums for this tribute, which takes place at Warner Theater. 7:30 p.m., $50/$75 + Ticketmaster fees. >> Tonight, the musical flavor of New Orleans comes to the Wonderland Ballroom tonight as Yamomanem takes the stage. Call 202-232-5263 for cover information. 9 p.m. >> Also tonight,…
>> The 1900s are playing the Rock and Roll Hotel, not to be confused with the 1990s. Three Stars alum Shortstack will join them on the bill, along with The Dead Trees and Kitty Hawk. $10, 8:30 p.m. >> Tonight at Blues Alley one of the area’s finest jazz drummers, Nasar Abadey, takes the stage with SuperNova, featuring Allyn Johnson on piano, Gary Thomas, Jazz Studies Chair at Peabody, altoist Joe Ford, and bassist…
>> This week’s first must see takes place tonight at Blues Alley as one of the area’s finest drummers, Nasar Abadey, takes the stage with SuperNova (pictured right), a local jazz supergroup. The band features Allyn Johnson on piano, Gary Thomas, Jazz Studies Chair at Peabody, altoist Joe Ford, and bassist James King. Sets are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. $18 + $10 food/drink minimum. Tickets available here. >> Also tonight, Twins Jazz hosts…
>> Our first item this week has absolutely nothing to do with jazz but it’s just too noteworthy not to mention. This week, The Millennium Stage hosts the 2007 Coupe Mondiale World Accordion Championships. Tonight through Sunday, each free 6 p.m. concert will showcase a different internationally renowned accordion ensemble. Admit it, you’re curious. >> As we told you yesterday, trumpeter Terence Blanchard will be celebrating the release of his new album with a four…
>> Along with Hugh Masekela, pianist Abdullah Ibrahim (pictured) is one of the most influential jazz musicians to come out of South Africa. A professional musician since 1949, Ibrahim has toured all over the world with his blend of jazz harmonies and traditional rhythms. Tonight this week’s must-see comes to Blues Alley for an evening of solo piano performance. Sets are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m and tickets are available online. $25 + $10…
The Young Lions personify the resurgence of U Street as the focal point of D.C.’s jazz scene. The original version of the group, formed in 1996, was a collaboration mainly of students attending Howard University. Over the past decade, the group has undergone various lineup changes and eventually settled on the genre-bending trio that heats up U Street’s clubs on a weekly basis. Though firmly rooted in tradition, the adventurous group explores and improvises…
>> The funky sounds of New Orleans come to the Wonderland Ballroom tonight with Yamomanem. The music starts at 9 p.m. >> It may come as a surprise, but some of the most innovative jazz in the world is now coming out of Norway. The scene’s music is known for its fearlessness and avant-garde sensibilities. The Zanussi Five, led by bassist Per Zanussi, is one such group and they are making a stop at Twins…
We’re still getting over the amazing Big Band Jam and next week we’ll tell you all about the Kennedy Center’s annual Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival. In the mean time, there’s plenty of great jazz to be had in our fair city. >> Trumpet player Sean Jones, a young lion who was recently chosen to be a member of the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, brings his group to Blues Alley. Jones is touring…
Happy Passover! This week’s theme: Legends. Not the Sasquatch/Grendel folk duo you’ve heard so much about, but living giants of their genre, era, or both. Several artists who have reached mythic status in popular culture are popping ‘round to say hello this week. Monday One of the best things about D.C. living is all the stuff there is to do for free. Tonight, the Kennedy Center offers some quality gratis jazz, presenting trumpeter Shunzu Ohno….
