As sometimes happens around here, there were more benefit shows this week than I could possibly fit into the music section and Critics' Picks. In addition to the Japan fundraiser at Cattivo, which I did get into Critics' Picks, I wanted to fill you in on a couple of other benefits tonight:

At Belvedere's, check out the benefit for the family of "Red Bob" Jungkunz. You've probably encountered Red Bob at some point even if you didn't know it; he plays drums in Amoeba Knievel and The Four Roses and The Gothees, and has worked at Paul's CDs in Bloomfield for years. Bob's sister has cancer, and is uninsured; tonight, some of Red Bob's friends are putting together a benefit, with maximum Red Bob participation, to help defray her medical costs. It starts at 8 p.m. with readings from standout writers Nikki Allen, Jason Baldinger, Kris Collins and Jerome Crooks. Then at 10:30, the music begins: Karl Hendricks (playing solo), Amoeba Knievel and Moldies & Monsters (who killed it at the Motown tribute at Howlers a few months back). DJ Swank Cat hosts; donation of $10 is suggested.

At Diesel, check out "Charaoke Karaoke," a benefit for Animal Friends. It's a night of celebrity karaoke; local musicians (Anti-Flag's Justin Sane, Jess Sides, Phat Man Dee) are joined by local celebrities of all stripes (Sean Collier, Joe Wos of the Toonseum) in a karaoke competition judged by the likes of SALLY WIGGIN. And our own Lynn Cullen. And others. It starts at 6 p.m. and $10 tickets are available via Showclix.

Go forth and enjoy entertainment while giving money to people who can use it!