A ground-breaking Boston combo, the Pixies nailed a cross-over fan base with four albums of pop-with-attitude. After hits like "Here Comes Your Man," in 1992 they went out with a bang (the first time) opening for U2's "Zoo" tour. Black Francis (ne Charles Thompson) rocked the underground scene as Frank Black, and Kim Deal re-formed the Breeders, with twin sister Kelly. If experience is timeless, this show is a no-brainer for Pixies fans, even after 13 years. $35 ($75 gold circle). Presented by the Bardavon at UPAC. (845) 473-2072. www.bardavon.org.

And they've been living on blues power for 10 years! Mike Moss's B2K presents a consistently top-shelf roster of outstanding headliners and blistering bar bands. This year choose from almost 30 acts, including Bobby Radcliff, the Kane Brothers, Bill Perry, Professor Louie and dozens of others. Vendors, including a Keegan Ales tasting party, spontaneous jams and electric/acoustic open mikes set the stage for three rocking days at the Nevele Grande. $30/20. Ellenville. (845) 985-9407. www.blues2000.com.

Readers of this space know our affinity for the clear and pure voices of these two chanteuses. Fradon effortlessly drifts from folk to classical to jazz. Taylor, equally diverse and gifted, specializes in Celtic and medieval vocals. The setting of Christ the King Episcopal Church will no doubt enhance the tonal bliss of their combined harmonies. This is also a release event for Taylor's new CD Welcome Brigid, a collection of songs, chants, and prayers to welcome and embrace divine feminine energy. $12 suggested donation. Stone Ridge. (845) 687-8961. www.katytaylor.com.

At their age, can they still rock 'til the dawn? Metal fans unite and find out when Rob Halford and the original Priest roll into the Mid-Hudson Civic Center in support of their 15th studio album, Angel of Retribution (Epic.) Openers Anthrax are a favorite at the Chance, who produces this show. There are reunion tours, and then there's this Cerberus of a rock event. Earplugs, please! (Upcoming at The Chance: Les Claypool Oct. 22 and Kings X Oct. 29.) $50, 45, 40. Poughkeepsie. (845) 471-1966. www.thechancetheater.com.

Jazz-At-Bard promoter Raisa St. Pierre came up slinging Creole food in the East Village, so no wonder she picked up the baton for this benefit soiree. In the spirit of charity, three well-known Big Easy acts, including Tin Men, Coco Robicheaux and the incredible New Orleans Klezmer All-Stars, converge at Bard College's Olin Hall for one night rock and roux with purpose. All proceeds benefit Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. $20 suggested donation. Annandale-on-Hudson. (845) 758-7456. www.bard.edu/jazzatbard.

Hall is a consummate artist, rarely separating experience from performance. His new CD, Rock Me on The Water (Siren Songs), was written as Hall sailed from Kingston (NY) to Havana (Cuba) then back to the US. The wonderfully tropical songs are already in rotation on WDST and Hall promises reggae versions of past hits as well at this Towne Crier gig. He's joined by a rhythmic new band including drummer Peter O'Brien, bassist Bobby MacDougal, percussionist Joakim Lartey and vocalist Melanie Hall. The Kennedys open. $20/$17.50. Pawling. (845) 855-1300.. www.johnhallmusic.com.

Our Halloween wish list would include both these bands in one night, but we'll just hit The Alamo twice this week. No biggie, as their caliente cucina throws out delicious comidas, and owners Scott and Bruce know from hot, so they've booked the best bands around with the Latin sound. Sonando tears up the oak on Friday the 21st with merengue, son and salsa. Mambo in the following Saturday for the irresitible Afro-Cuban jazz of Mambo Kikongo. They call it "Day of the Dead," but their dance floor will be mas vida! $5 (no cover with dinner). Rosendale. www.eatathealamo.com.