Freshlyground's Simon Atwell has confirmed that the band will release new music in 2025 after finding a new vocalist.
Relationship gurus will tell you that you need to heal your old relationship before stepping into a new one.
This is an exercise in self-reflection and patience that allows for growth.
Freshlyground, one of South Africa's most authentic and widely acclaimed music collectives, took this route following the departure of lead singer Zolani Mahola in 2019.
Also read: Former Freshly Ground singer Zolani Mahola launches all-female band The Feminine Force
Pause just after hitting the ground
“After Zolani left, we actually had a very intentional hiatus, which took about four and a half years, until we started looking at a new lead singer,” says Freshly Ground drummer Peter Cohen. . The Citizen.
“During this time, we were processing change and exploring our own musical direction.”
In 2019, Mahola announced his decision to go solo in his music career, leaving Freshly Ground, where he was the lead singer for at least 17 years.
She then started an all-female band, The Feminine Force, and adopted the nickname The One Who Sings.
Freshlyground's “handling change” didn't mean their loyal fans would lose interest in them. Rather, their silence only increased their thirst for music.
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Explore new possibilities
“Zolani didn't want to get involved, so we started exploring new possibilities,” Cohen asserted.
Drummer added that the actual search process took several months to carefully evaluate potential candidates.
“There were multiple layers of complexity to the process. We were looking for exceptional vocal talent, but also someone who could tie in with our existing musical style while bringing their own fresh interpretation. I needed it.”
Cohen talks about how Mahola was essential to the fundamental and unique character of the group. Nombra.
“Zolani has been an integral part of our identity for many years, and finding someone who could take on the role while creating a unique space required a delicate balance.
“During this period of transition, we had to navigate both the artistic and interpersonal dynamics within the band,” says Cohen.
Kyu Mbali Makoba is a 19-year-old vocalist who seems to be the new frontier the band has reached in their quest.
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Freshly Ground returns in 2025
She will officially debut as a member of Freshly Ground this weekend in an intimate performance at the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.
“Mbali is an extraordinary talent who brings both fearlessness and quiet confidence to his roles.
“Her presence in rehearsals was remarkable. She has a natural ability to keep her feet on the ground and command attention,” said Freshly Ground flutist Simon Atwell.
Atwell said Makoba has “incredible singing ability and a confident nature that makes her a perfect fit.”
“Taking on this role required some serious thought,” says Makoba. “So we're talking about Zolani and Freshly Ground! Those are great shoes to fill.”
Mr Atwell said the band's return to the stage this weekend marks the beginning of being in the industry again.
“We are excited to confirm that new music is definitely on the way and coming soon. This marks the start of what is expected to be a very active year for Freshly Ground.”
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Bringing freshness while respecting the established
Makoba started jamming at Freshly Ground in early 2024, but things got more intense later in the year, and he ended up sharing the stage with the band at Armchair Theater in November.
“Kirstenbosch is such an amazing venue and there is something really special about performing there with Freshly Ground.
“The importance of this show is not lost on me. This is a major milestone in my musical journey,” says the vocalist.
Makoba wasn't even born when Freshly Ground released their critically acclaimed album. Nombra On their 2004 album, she says she brought an authentic Gen Z spirit to the group.
“I’m not trying to replicate what came before, but rather bring my own truth to these songs.
“We also add the energy and perspective of Gen Z, bringing a fresh vibe to the band’s sound while honoring their heritage.”
“It's important to find a balance between respecting established styles and bringing something new to it.”
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