MC5 was always the spark that preceded the fire. It was true at the Chicago Democratic National Convention in August 1968, when MC5 was the only band to play during the “Festival of Life,” just hours before the infamous police protests and demonstrations began. And it was true the next year, when the band released Kick Out the Jams. MC5’s protopunk attack is exemplified by the album’s title track, with its squeals of feedback, barebones riff, relentless drum beat, and iconic “kick out the jams, motherfuckers” prelude to the music. But while the album ignited the flame in the hearts of would-be punks around the world, MC5’s own fire would burn out in just three years. But with democracy threatening to die in darkness, the embers of MC5 have been stoked back to life. To celebrate the album’s 50th anniversary, guitarist Wayne Kramer has assembled a cast of punk and hard rock all-stars, including Soundgarden guitarist Kim Thayil and Fugazi drummer Brendan Canty, to help him kick out the jams one last time. The show begins at 7 p.m. at 9:30 Club, 815 V St. NW. $40. (202) 265-0930. 930.com. (Chris Kelly)

OH AND ALSO

The Sackler Gallery presents Shaping Clay in Ancient Iran, an exhibition showcasing the surviving ceramics of ancient Iran. 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at 1050 Independence Ave. SW. Free.

North Carolina rapper and singer-songwriter Jalen Santoy performs at DC9. 8 p.m. at 1940 9th St. NW. $10–$15.

Faroe Islands folk-pop artist Teitur performs at Union Stage. 8 p.m. at 740 Water St. SW. $15–$20.

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