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Califone performs "Spider's House"

Since the formation of the band in the late 1990s, Califone has confounded listeners and critics alike with its disturbing yet beautiful hybrid of folk, blues, pop and electronic soundscapes. Formed by frontman Tim Rutili out of the remnants of his former band, the late lamented Red Red Meat, Califone trandscends traditional folk and blues structures and transforms them into something new entirely. The group’s previous recording, Heron King Blues (Thrill Jockey), was an almost completely improvised work that recalled the more experimental sides of bands such as Pere Ubu and Public Image Ltd. The latest, Roots and Crowns, goes further into folk territory while retaining the pioneering spirit of its predecessor. The songs are woven together by improvised percussion and found sounds, all while singer/songwriter Rutili invokes an aching feeling of loss and longing. As amazing as these records are, this is a sound that is best experienced up close. Aided by two drummers and various multi-imstrumetalists, Califone is becoming known as one of the best live acts of this decade, having stolen the show countless times now. Opening acts are UK acoustic folk artist Peter and the Wolf and Tracy Morrow and the Magi Chippie.

Saturday, November 4 at 9pm. Mohawk Place, 47 E. Mohawk Street (855-3931) www.mohawkplace.com. $10.