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.
