Kirk Rundstrom Benefit Concert

Even if his name doesn't ring a bell, you've probably heard the punk-bluegrass crossover sound Kirk Rundstrom and his band, Split Lip Rayfield (pictured, with Rundstrom at center), have consistently generated. Split Lip Rayfield, however, won't be playing at the Bottleneck, Friday, March 24. Instead, the Lawrence venue will host an all-night gig to help finance Rundstrom's looming battle with esophageal cancer. The solid lineup of local bands includes Ghosty, Approach, Julia Peterson, Matt Pryor, Drakkar Sauna, Rikky Fitts, Grant Fitch, Eric Mardis and DJs Konsept and Cruz. Ghosty synthesizes introspective, original lyrics with refreshing key changes and rhythmic variations into an act worthy of an audience by itself — let alone in the company of grinding, funk-induced hip-hop from Approach and old-time country from Drakkar Sauna. The music complements a silent auction from 5:30 to 10:00 p.m., making this concert a choice that will offer more than adequate bang for your Kirk Rundstrom-bill-paying buck.