Soul-funk supercrew the Nth Power, currently on their “Funkapower” tour with Cory Henry & the Funk Apostles, confirmed today that keyboard player Nigel Hall has departed the band.

Hall made his announcement via Twitter yesterday, saying, “Much love to the Nth Power. Greatest musicians ever and I will miss playing with them.”

Hall will still be featured on the band’s forthcoming full-length debut album, Abundance, due for release later this year.

Stepping in to replace him is Courtney Smith, a keyboardist, vocalist, and close friend of Nth Power percussionist Weedie Braimah.

Smith is a heavy-hitter in St. Louis’ gospel and R&B scenes, as well as a member of Braimah’s world-beat group, Kreative Pandemonium.

“Courtney Smith is a phenomenal young man who has dedicated his life to music,” Braimah said. “He is a true believer of letting the spirit flow through him, and his talent is nothing but true joy.”

Smith played his first show with the band three days ago in Boca Raton and will join them for the rest of the tour, which was recently prolonged.

The Nth Power will return to New Orleans April 26 through May 4 with a string of shows at the Republic, on Oak Street, and at the Howlin’ Wolf.