After having toured and recorded for over a decade, Robert Cray had a breakthrough with his 1986 release, Strong Persuader, which included his signature tune, “Smoking Gun”. Though the subject of criticism in those early days because of his willingness to embrace contemporary production techniques and incorporate soul and rock elements into his version of the blues, Cray’s recorded output over 30 plus years on the scene and continuous touring around the world prove that…

>> Tonight, jazz veteran and six-time Grammy nominee Mark Murphy pays a visit to Blues Alley for 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. sets. Tickets are available online. $25 cover + $10 food/drink minimum. >> Keyboardist Marcus Johnson brings his smooth jazz stylings to Blues Alley for a four night stand beginning Thursday. Sets are at 8 p.m. and 10 p.m. $25 cover + $10 food/drink minimum. >> Velvet Lounge will host some not-so-run-of-the-mill improvisation this…