Cymande
Cymande is a British funk group known for their unique blend of musical styles, which encompasses African rhythms, rock, soul, calypso, reggae, and modern jazz-funk. Formed in the early 1970s, they gained recognition for their eclectic sound and have been influential in the funk genre.
The band's debut album, "Cymande," was released in 1972 and produced by John Schroeder. Their music is characterized by smooth, spiritual, and versatile qualities that set them apart from other artists in the genre. The band broke through in the U.S. funk scene, touring and headlining the Apollo Theater, following the chart success of their single "The Message" (1973), despite being ignored in the UK.
Following the success of their self-titled debut album in 1972 and the single from it "The Message", the band released three further albums:- Second Time Round (1973); Promised Heights (1974); and Arrival (1981).
After a lengthy hiatus, Cymande made a comeback with a new album titled "A Simple Act Of Faith," released in 2016. This marked their first LP in several decades, featuring both new material and elements that reflect their historical musical roots, and another album in 2025 entitled Renascence. The band's recent performances, including appearances on platforms like KCRW, signify their continued relevance and appeal in today's music scene.
Cymande's work remains appreciated for its innovative fusion and uplifting vibe, continuing to attract fans of funk and soul music alike.
Cymande
Written-By – Mike Rose, Pablo Gonsales
3:29
A2 One More
Written-By – Patrick Patterson, Steve Scipio
3:06
A3 Getting It Back
Written-By – Patrick Patterson, Steve Scipio
4:16
A4 Listen
Written-By – Patrick Patterson, Steve Scipio
4:37
A5 Rickshaw
Written-By – Patrick Patterson, Steve Scipio
5:50
B1 Dove
Written-By – Cymande
10:50
B2 Bra
Written-By – Patrick Patterson, Steve Scipio
5:00
B3 The Message
Written-By – Patrick Patterson, Steve Scipio
4:19
B4 Ras Tafarian Folk Song
Written-By – Mike Rose, Pablo Gonsales
3:08
Label: Janus Records – JLS 3044
Format: Vinyl, LP, Album
Country: US
Released: 1972
Genre: R&B Soul, Jazz, Funk
Style: Funk, Soul
Cymande's self-titled 1972 debut album is a groundbreaking fusion of funk, reggae, soul, jazz, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms, characterized by hypnotic grooves, spiritual depth, and socially conscious lyrics, creating a unique "Nyah-rock" sound that became a cult classic through heavy sampling in hip-hop and enduring influence on dance music. It features iconic tracks like "Dove," "Bra," and "The Message" and established them as innovators in British black music, beloved in the U.S. but overlooked at home.
Offering a rich blend of funk, soul, jazz, reggae basslines, calypso, and Afro-tinged percussion that is meditative, and spiritually infused, reflecting the members' Caribbean roots. "Nyah-Rock" a term the band coined for their distinctive sound, incorporating Rastafarian themes and Nyabinghi rhythms. Produced by John Schroeder, featuring crisp instrumentation and tight arrangements.
The album became a cornerstone for early hip-hop DJs and a major source for sampling by artists like De La Soul, Wu-Tang Clan, Gang Starr, and The Fugees. It has gained immense cult status over decades, influencing funk, house, and rare groove scenes.
Cymande's debut is a landmark album, showcasing a globally aware sound that was ahead of its time, creating timeless tracks that continue to resonate and be rediscovered.