It's All Here: A Capella to Garage Bands

   If you haven’t heard The Bobs, your vision of the world is probably somewhat less twisted than it will be if you catch their show at Pawling’s Towne Crier, May 2 at 7:30 p.m. This is a cappella but not like any other a cappella group you’ve encountered, with material that has been compared to Robin Williams meeting Bobby McFerrin. I love their quirky takes on everyday life and the range of their vocals from punk to jazz. Their song “Drive-by Love†chronicles the romance between a UPS driver and a sales clerk, while “Helmet†celebrates the joys of sturdy headgear. “Tight Pants Tango†will ring a bell with anyone who has tried to fish a cellphone out of clinging jeans. They’ll be joined by singer Carla Ulbrich, who has also established herself as a wry commentator on similar topics. Tickets $25, $30 at the door. 845-855-1300

   Folksinger/songwriter Bill Staines has been admired far and wide for many years. Hudson Valley Folk Guild’s Friends of Fiddler’s Green Chapter presents him April 30, 8 p.m., at the Hyde Park United Methodist Church, Route 9 and Church Street in Hyde Park, NY. Admission $8; HVFG members/seniors $6. 845-229-0170 or www.hudsonvalleyfolkguild.org

    The Housatonic Youth Service Bureau will present the 6th Annual Battle of the Bands on April 24, from 7 to 10 p.m at Housatonic Valley Regional High School, the Battle showcases the talent, independent practice and dedication of the Northwest Corner’s “garage bands.†Eight of them will play for cash prizes. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  $8, under 5 free. Call 860-824-4720 or go gto www.hysb.org.  

   The sensational violinist and composer Mark O’Connor will perform at Trinity-Pawling School in Pawling, NY, April 30 at 8 p.m. He has recorded with Yo-Yo Ma and Wynton Marsalis, and his compositions have established his uniquely American voice on concert stages. Tickets $25/12 students. 845-855-3102.

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