Freshlyground

Formed in Cape Town during 2002, the South African Afro-fusion ensemble Freshlyground assembled under the leadership of vocalist Zolani Mahola. The roster featured Simon Attwell on flute, mbira, and harmonica, Peter Cohen on drums, Kyla Rose Smith on violin, Julio “Gugs” Sigauque on acoustic guitar, Josh Hawks on bass guitar, and Seredeal “Shaggy” Scheepers on keyboards and percussion. Merging traditional kwela and African folk with jazz, blues, and an indie rock sensibility, the band shaped a singular and invigorating style and sound. Their debut album, Jika Jika, emerged in 2003, followed by Nomvula in 2004, Ma’ Cheri in 2007, and Radio Africa in 2010.