MAY 12
Musician and activist Michael Franti does a little bit of everything — rap, funk, jazz, folk, spoken word, poetry — and does it all well. He’s bringing his equally diverse and talented band, Spearhead.
8 p.m. / The Republik / $38 / jointherepublik.com or 941-7469
MAY 20
“Hear” silent movies as you’ve never heard them before, when maestro Rick Benjamin, pictured, returns with original music composed for silent classics from Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton and Harold Lloyd, performed by Chamber Music Hawaii musicians.
7:30 p.m. / Orvis Auditorium, University of Hawaii at Manoa / $35-$45 / chambermusichawaii.com or 489-5038
MAY 21
Indie-pop survivors Gin Blossoms (“Hey Jealousy,” “Til I Hear It From You”) headline the Honolulu Ekiden Music Festival, the relay race/music festival imported from Japan. Dirty Heads and two Japanese entertainers also join in on the fun.
5 p.m. / Waikiki Shell / $30-$100 / ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000
MAY 24
Maria Muldaur is known for her 1970s hit “Midnight at the Oasis,” but her jazz/gospel/blues/Americana artistry lends itself to a lot more. She’s touring the islands with her Red Hot Bluesiana Band through May 28; visit lazarbear.com for info.
6:30 and 9 p.m. / Blue Note Hawaii / $30-$50 / bluenotehawaii.com or 777-4890
MAY 26
Trevor Noah, host of Comedy Central’s “The Daily Show,” will certainly bring a political punch. His first show sold out so fast, a late show was added.
8 and 10:30 p.m. / Blaisdell Concert Hall / $45.50-$95.50 / ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000
“American Idol” winner Taylor Hicks brings his soulful sound. 6:30 and 9 p.m. May 12-14, Blue Note Hawaii, $21.25-$35. bluenotehawaii.com or 777-4890
Pianist Andre Watts with the Hawai‘i Symphony Orchestra. 7:30 p.m. June 10 and 4 p.m. June 11, Blaisdell Concert Hall. $34-$92. ticketmaster.com or 800-745-3000
