South African band Freshlyground have announced the departure of its violinist and backing vocalist Kyla-rose Smith. Kyla-rose is leaving the band to pursue other artistic opportunities in South Africa and abroad. The violinist was with the band for over fourteen years, during which time the band became a household name with hits such as I’d Like, Doo Be Doo, Fire is Low, and Waka Waka.
Kyla-rose is replaced by Congolese guitarist Chris Bakalanga. Chris played in a number of groups in the Congo before moving to South Africa in 2005, where he has performed with leading artists like Simphiwe Dana, the Moreira Project and Hot Water.
Freshlyground go into Studio in December to begin work on their sixth studio album with Swedish producer Tore Johansson, which they plan to release early next year.