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THE FOUR GROUPS stepping up for the first Ladyfest benefit bring a particularly diverse range of influences to their performances. San Francisco-based punk trio the Quails, for example, employ folk and soul beats to frame their danceable tunes dissecting sexual and gender politics. Riot-a-Go-Go are more of an unknown quantity, being pretty new on the block, although they clearly pack some attitude. Think "Billy Idol on a date with Chaka Khan," the duo say about their sound. Guitarist and vocalist Nova Lee Szoka's intriguing musical past includes stints with an Italian American accordion band and Oakland political punks United Slaves of America. Confederacy of Fools, from Sacramento, describe themselves as a "pseudo jazz/noise group." As for the openers, Oakland-based foursome the Betty Expedition – named after one band member's treasured sky blue Volvo sedan – expect some power pop mixed up with extended instrumental experimentations verging on industrial. In addition to taking in four very different bands and some free food, you'll be helping to raise money for July's Ladyfest Bay Area 2002 festival, a five-day nonprofit women's arts and activism mega-event. How can you say no? 9 p.m., 2330 Telegraph, Oakl. $6. (510) 444-6174. (China Martens)