Like Robert Fripp did with British progressive rock godfathers King Crimson, Lantana-based vocalist/guitarist Andre Michaud has overseen area bluegrass act Smiley Tunehead through several talented lineups, plus the occasional long hiatus, since forming the band in 1998.

As the lone remaining original member, he's played with mandolinists including brother Bert Michaud and George Manosis; guitarist Joe Clark; and a series of bassists that started with Jim Althouse. But when Bruce Freeland subbed for then-bass player Jimi Dee as the group wound down in 2007, a seed was planted in Michaud's head for future reference.

Michaud, Freeland, mandolinist Steve Brunner and dobro player John Smotherman form the latest talented Smiley Tunehead incarnation, having played its first dates in nearly five years during 2012.

"Steve and I had been playing duo shows," Michaud says. "Bruce was one of a few bassists who filled in when Jimi was leaving, and we felt lucky to be able to get him back. And I'd seen John playing electric guitar locally, and thought he was amazing. When I found out he also played dobro, I knew he'd be perfect to restart the band with."

All four members now sing lead and backing vocals on Michaud originals and covers by the likes of Gram Parsons, Townes Van Zandt and Old Crow Medicine Show.

See Smiley Tunehead from 5:30-9 p.m. Friday, June 1, for the first in a series of Friday "Safari Nights" through October at the Palm Beach Zoo, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach (free for members; $14.95 for adults and $8.95 for kids ages 3-12, 561-547-9453 ), and from 8 p.m.-midnight on June 8 at South Shores, 502 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth (561-547-7656).

'ROUND TOWN

A benefit for area drummer Russell Carpenter, diagnosed with Stage 4 lung and brain cancer and without medical insurance, takes place at Connolly's Sports Bar (facebook.com/connollyssportsbar ) on Sunday, June 3. Raffles, live music, contests and $5 food plates are served from noon-7 p.m. at 10045 Belvedere Road, Royal Palm Beach (561-795-0403) .

A decade ago, guitarist/vocalist Anthony Alfano played with local alternative rock trio Netheresque. Now with Fort Lauderdale classic rock quartet Audio Heist (facebook.com/AudioHeist), he takes the stage with frontman Jack Licata, bassist/vocalist Ryan Schoeneck and drummer Paul Honcharski at 9 p.m. June 9 at World of Beer, 101 N. Clematis St., West Palm Beach (561-833-3375) .

From 2-8 p.m. June 10, local bands The Dillengers, Blues Dragon, Black Finger, Route Bleu, King Muddfish, the Sweet Chariots, and the Hot Box Vapors offer a variety of styles as a benefit for LULA Lake Worth Arts (lakewortharts.com ) at South Shores Tavern, 502 Lucerne Ave., Lake Worth (561-547-7656).