Thomas Mapfumo is the biggest pop star Zimbabwe has ever produced, but his outspoken songs that praise the common folk and excoriate the powers that be made him a danger to the corrupt government. Since 2000 he has lived in exile in Oregon, but the move has only made his music more militant. His Blacks Unlimited Band blends the rhythms of the acoustic mbira (thumb piano) with electric guitars, rippling basslines, and passionate vocals that cry out for peace and justice. Tuesday, June 5 at Ashkenaz. 8:30 p.m., $15. Ashkenaz.com
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