Eight Gigs: Max Raabe and Palast Orchester

Thurs., April 2, 8 p.m., Mondavi Center, $13.50-$77

German crooner Max Raabe has been releasing albums since 1988 and has become a force to be reckoned with. After learning much about German music and dance from his parents, Raabe attended Berlin University of the Arts and eventually formed Palast Orchester to see his songs realized. Although much of the material during the ensemble’s beginnings came from Raabe’s flea-market finds, the group morphed into something much greater. He also writes his own music in addition to paying respect to German and American standards. Come dressed to the nines and get a babysitter if you have kids. 9399 Old Davis Road in Davis, www.palast-orchester.de/en.
(SN&R)