The Latin party band of choice returns to New World Home Cooking for this raucous fiesta, serving up some of the region's best musicians mixed con sabor for your dancing pleasure. The musical portions are hefty this month, with Monica's Kneepads (5/12), bouncehall faves Lovewhip (5/19), and Murali Coryell (5/26) filling out Ric and Liz's copious buffet. No cover. Sauger-stock. (845) 246-0900. www.newworldhomecooking.com.

Out of hibernation at last, shaggy Lyonsville jazz artist Dug Elliot and Wet Paint score the coveted Friday happy hour slot at Bridgewater Grill (formerly West Strand Grill) on the Rondout. Elliot promises no covers, just his original blend of percussion and vocalese, accompanied by skillful local and New York City sidemen, including legendary bassist Don Pate. The club's owners may have changed, but the hospitality remains. No cover. Kingston. (845) 340-4272. www.wetpaint.net.

. The buzz on Bruce Katz isn't a loose wire in his Hammond B-3 organ, but the phenomenal reputation this seasoned keyboardist brings to local line-ups. First touted by Big Joe Fitz of WDST 100.1FM's Blues Break (Sundays. 10pm-midnight), now Katz brings his own smokin' combo to the cozy Rosendale Café. Watch the windows get steamy as Katz's cats, including fellow former members of Ronnie Earl's Broadcasters, get down with a soul-jazz sound. $10. Rosendale. (845) 658-9048. www.brucekatzband.com.

Longtime area resident and Cajun bandleader Doctor Romo recently underwent brain surgery and this benefit show at Marbletown Community Center helps with the treatment. Music will be provided by Jay Ungar and Molly Mason, Cleoma's Ghost with Jesse Lege, Soul Purpose, and Big Joe Fitz and the Disciples with Barbara Dempsey. A spirited jam session kicks off at 5pm (bring instruments), and a silent auction accepts bids all afternoon. Lunch and soft drinks will be served and BYOB is okay. (Donations also accepted c/o Cleoma's Ghost, PO Box 426, West Park, NY 12493) $25. Stone Ridge. (845) 384-6673.

What's not to love about a band with a clear-voiced singer, great lyrics, and a toe-tappin' organic rock sound? The Trapps have all this and a few aces up their sleeves, too. Just off a really big show opening for Blues Traveler at The Chance, the boys return to the Gunx side and the Oasis stage, where it all began. $5. New Paltz. 845-255-2400. www.thetrappsband.com.

Poughkeepsie singer-songwriter Judy Norman is the queen of rock-and-roll philanthropy, with nearly 10 years of charity concerts under her belt. This year's ninth annual soiree benefits the Dutchess SPCA and features Helan Avakian (also in her ninth appearance), the Judy Norman Project, Kristen Capolino, Elly Wininger, and many others at Club Crannell. $10. Poughkeepsie. (845) 471-1966. www.myspace.com/judynorman.