For something completely different, check out Stealin’ Strings, which performs at 10 p.m. Friday at Cranky Pat’s. The band mixes bluegrass and rock into something they call “bluegressive rock,” which, according to the band’s Web site, is “the progression of bluegrass becoming rock ’n’ roll.” The Reptile Palace, 141 High Ave., Oshkosh, has a bunch of fun shows on tap this weekend. Today, it’s a blend of rock, ska, surf and rockabilly with Dave Nooe, Kurt Bauer and Erik G.

Friday it’s all about the rock with 24-inch Pythons, Bob Burns and the Breakups and Dinosaur Pills. Saturday it’s blues rock with Blue Owl. All shows start at 10 p.m.; admission is free. More info at www.myspace.com/thereptilepalace .

Funny business Pat Dixon is known for his sharp wit, but he says what he’s missing is a catchphrase, “like, ‘Take my wife, please,’ or ‘I don’t get no respect,’ or, ‘Dial down the center.’” Still, even without signature verbiage, he has still won over audiences with his clever style, and by that we mean he’s not Carrot Top. “Comedians feel the same way about Carrot Top as vampires feel about Count Chocula,” he says. Dixon performs Thursday through Saturday at the Skyline Comedy Cafe in Appleton.

Showtimes are 8 p.m. Thursday ($8) and 8 and 10:15 p.m. Friday ($10) and Saturday ($12). More info at 920-734-5653 or www.skylinecomedy.com .