Freshlyground at Levitt Pavilion

Beyond eclecticism for its own sake, the seven-piece, multi-generational, and multi-ethnic Freshlyground bring together easy-going hipsters and scene veterans, fiery singers and cool production. Known for their collaboration with Shakira on the 2010 FIFA World Cup theme song, these unlikely pop stars blend the influences brought by their diverse backgrounds of Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique with a bold energy and skillful spontaneity.

Freshlyground—whose name evokes the fresh mix of just-crushed herbs—fearlessly dives into crates of traditional instruments, pointed political critique, poetry notebooks, and well-loved Southern African pop forms. They channel the sunny openness of hip Cape Town and the intense energy of singing ancestors. The mix is catchy, driving, and refreshingly upbeat, even when songs take aim at social ills and the folly of misguided politicians.

Catch them July 10th at Levitt Pavilion, located 85 E Holly St in Pasadena, starting at 7 PM for an absolutely free performance.