Andy Palacio: at the MFA, Aug. 1. The Belizean singer-songwriter plays danceable tunes with a handmade feel. Percussion and vocals are group efforts, with mini-riots of clave, maracas, guiros, and even tabletop pounding breaking out. Tasteful acoustic and electric guitar lines underscore tales about peace, family, faith, and tradition. Palacio (right) takes much of his inspiration from the musical traditions of the Garifuna, a group descended from West African slaves who mingled with the native Carib population in the early 17th century; in addition to being a musician, he's cultural ambassador for Belize's National Institute of Culture and History. Tickets $20 for members, seniors, and students; $25 general admission. 617-369-3306; mfa.org.

Read more: A true cultural ambassador (Sarah Rodman, Globe Staff)