Freshlyground is back: band launches new sound with Cape Town performance

Karishma Dipa|Published

South African multi-award-winning band Freshlyground is known for blending African rhythms with contemporary sounds to create music that resonates across generations.

Image: Supplied

Freshlyground debuts new album live

Following their five-year hiatus from the music industry, the iconic South African band is ready to rock the Mother City this weekend.

With their brand-new lead singer, Mbali Makhoba revving to go, the group will be debuting their new album called “Take Me Home” to a live audience.

This is their first album since 2018 and the first one that includes Makhoba, who replaced Zolani Mahola. She left Freshlyground in 2019 to embark on a solo career.

Now, with a new vocalist in the spotlight, Freshlyground is ready to step into a new era with their latest offering, which is rooted in traditional African rhythms and contemporary sounds.

The band is kicking off their new sound with this performance in the cultural heart of Langa, before embarking on a European tour later this month.

Where: Guga S’thebe in Langa.

When: Saturday, May 23, from 3pm.

SANLAM Cape Town Marathon

After this popular event was cancelled last year due to severe weather conditions, it is set for an epic return this weekend.

This 17th edition marks the final year of candidacy for Cape Town to potentially become Africa’s very first Abbott World Marathon Major, the list of the most renowned marathon races across the world. 

As a special incentive, all 2026 finishers will receive a provisional Abbott Major star, which becomes official once the race's upgraded status is confirmed.

This global urban, fast-paced marathon is suited to a range of running enthusiasts from social runners to elite athletes. 

Where: Start at Fritz Sonnenberg Road at Green Point Stadium.

When: Friday, May 23 and Saturday, May 23 and Saturday, May 24, from 6am on both days.

BeerEx Africa

Beer enthusiasts are in for a treat at this event, which seeks to grow the local industry.

This multifaceted gathering includes seminars hosted by professional brewers, interactive demos of innovative products in the space, as well as  beer-tasting experiences from various brands and labels.

At the end of the weekend, The African Beer Cup - the continent’s biggest beer competition - will also be crowned.

Where: The Wicket Expo Hall in Newlands.

When: Runs until Saturday, May 23. Times vary per event.