Shantytown play at Alpine Meadows.

A keyboard, sax, bass guitar and drums combine to create “songs rooted in the music of the poor, and the lives of the adventurous.” Straight from San Francisco, Shantytown spans several musical genres, ranging from gospel to Celtic, jazz to rock and blues, and all that’s in between.

Monophonics at Alpine.

For over four years, Monophonics has been jamming in the bay area, producing a retro blend of funk, soul and groove. This six-member band includes two saxophones, an organ, guitar, horn and drums to inspire its wide contrast in instrumentals. Monophonics was voted “Best Funk/Soul/R&B Band” in SF Weekly’s Best of the Bay awards.

Diego’s Umbrella at Alpine Meadows.

Ever heard of “Mexi-Cali Gypsy Pirate Polka?” That’s what happens when you combine rock, ska, Latin, pop and flamenco sounds with homemade mariachi outfits. San Francisco based Diego’s Umbrella encompasses so many energetic tunes; few will be sitting by the end of the set.

Jon Howland Trio at Alpine Meadows.

Folk, rock and pop are just a few words to describe this talented trio. Lap steel, slide and guitar all add to the eclectic mix of sounds, while the band writes all its own music. And of course, the guys always save room for improvisation.

Kate Gaffney at Alpine Meadows on Feb. 14 from noon-3pm.

Singer, songwriter and guitar player Kate Gaffney has jumped between the east and west coast creating a wake of lyrical rock and folk music for millions of listeners. Gaffney says her music appeals to “the people who want something new, but who are steeped in the old ways.” Gaffney’s musical roots stem from the influences of Led Zeppelin, the Beatles and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, to name a few.

Micah J plays at Alpine Meadows.

Straight from Carnelian Bay, disc jockey Micah J. brings an up-tempo groove guaranteed to keep spirits high. Check out his assortment of funky, fresh beats that will certainly keep the party going all day long.

Lumanation plays Alpine Meadows on Feb. 6 from noon-3pm.

Lumanation puts out a combination of reggae and rock that sounds like a collision of Bob Marley, Pepper, Michael Franti and Sublime. Each band member has several years of musical experience under his belt, experimenting with classical, jazz, Latin and many other genres.

Oscars at Opal is a benefit for Tahoe Arts Project, the organization that brings music and theater to students in the schools on the South Shore of Lake Tahoe.

The event is March 7 at MontBleu Opal Lounge at Stateline.  Doors open at 4:30pm, with the telecast stating at 5pm.

Tickets are $50.

For tickets or more information, call (530) 542.3632.

Downbeat plays at Homewood on April 10 from noon-3pm.

Straight from King’s Beach, Downbeat is known for its thick harmonies and booty-shaking grooves. Their sound is a melting pot of funk, soul and jazz guaranteed to keep skiers and riders in the groove long after the lifts close.

2Me plays at Homewood ski report.

From Sacramento to Lake Tahoe to Arkansas, 2Me travels far and wide to share its “folk & roll” with excited audiences. 2Me has a unique acoustic sound and often invites other musicians to play along on instruments like washboards, kazoos, harps, you name it.