The Pacific Jazz Institute at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley presents African Pop Giant Oliver Mtukudzi for four nights September 7-10. Band members include: Oliver Mtukudzi (vocals), Mary Bell (vocals), Erick Kasamba (vocals/percussion), Jairos Hambahamba (keyboard), Never Mpofu (bass), Namatayi Mubariki (vocals), Clive Mutyasira (drummer) and Kennedy Neshamba (percussion). Set times Thursday through Saturday are at 7:30pm and 9:30pm and set time on Sunday is at 7:30pm. Doors open at 6pm on Thursday and 5:30pm Friday – Sunday. Cost: 24.50. Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley is located at 2033 6th Avenue, Seattle, WA 98121. Phone: +1 206 441-9729.

Guitarist, vocalist and songwriter Oliver “Tuku” Mtukudzi is one ofthe most powerful creative forces to emerge from Zimbabwe in the last three decades. Carefully balancing compelling rhythms and accessible melodies with insightful lyrics, Tuku has built a vast body of work that is politically and socially relevant, yet entertaining and accessible to a worldwide audience. Throughout a career that spans more than 45 recordings and virtually every corner of the globe, he has remained committed to the live music scene of his homeland, where he and his band, The Black Spirits, continually play to enthusiastic audiences in even the most remote regions.

Worldwide response to Mtukudzi’s music has been glowing. Parade called him “one of the few genuine innovators of the Zimbabwean music scene,” while Prize Beat in his native country proclaimed that his music “has been instrumental in strengthening our freedom, socially, politically and economically.” American blues/country/roots artist Bonnie Raitt has referred to him as a cross between soul shouter Otis Redding and reggae legend Toots Hibbert.

Mtukudzi made his debut on the Heads Up label with the worldwide release of Nhava on April 26, 2005. “Nhava” is the Zimbabwean word for “carrying bag.” Mtukudzi says the new album is a satchel filled with nuggets of advice, encouragement and wisdom for travelers on the journey of life as they make their way through an often-perilous world. For more information visit Oliver Mtukudzi and www.jazzalley.com.

Buy Nhava .