New Orleans trumpet player and vocalist Kermit Ruffins has enough swagger to strut like a rap star, but he prefers to play his horn and sing like his idol, Louis Armstrong. On his latest album#imsoneworleans, this Ninth Ward–born showman and his band, the Barbecue Swingers, mix joyous original numbers like the snappy title track, in which he lists which elements of the city he loves most, with Big Easy classics like Professor Longhair’s “Tipitina” and standards like “At Last” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.” Such cover choices could have been shopworn, but Ruffins makes them feel fresh. Read more >>> Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers perform at 7:30 p.m. at the Hamilton, 600 F St. NW. $25–$35. (202) 787-1000. thehamiltondc.com. (Steve Kiviat)

EAT THIS

Cava Grill opens its newest location in Fairfax today. All rice bowls, salads, and pitas are free for lunch and dinner, and guests are encouraged to give a donation to City Blossoms, a local nonprofit that teaches kids about the environment through community gardens. The Greek-inspired fast-casual restaurant will be open from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 6 to 9 p.m. today with regular hours starting tomorrow. Cava Grill, 11046 Lee Highway, Fairfax, Va. cavagrill.com. (Jessica Sidman)

OH AND ALSO

Science fiction author Neal Stephenson reads from his latest offering, Seveneves, at the Sidwell Friends School Meeting House. 7 p.m. at 3825 Wisconsin Ave. NW. Free.

Local rock bands Sealab and Stronger Sex perform at the Pinch in Columbia Heights with Athens, Ga., based act Grand Vapids. Find more details on Facebook. 8:30 p.m. at 3548 14th St. NW. $7.

Raya Brass Band summons the spirit of the Balkans while Sandaraa draws inspiration from Pakistan and Brooklyn. Both bands perform tonight at Tropicalia. 8 p.m. at 2011 14th St. NW. $10–$12.

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