Cymande

Cymande
OriginLondon, England
GenresPsychedelic funk[1]
Years active1971–1974; 2006; 2012–present
LabelsJanus Records, Cherry Red Records
Memberssee Members below
Websitecymandeofficial.com

Cymande (pronounced /sɪˈmɑːndeɪ/ sih-MAHN-day) are a British funk group that was originally active in the early 1970s. The band name derives from a calypso word for "dove", which symbolises peace and love;[2] "Dove" is also the title of one of their best-known songs. With a membership deriving from several Caribbean nations, Cymande were noted for an eclectic mix of funk, soul, reggae, rock, African music, calypso, and jazz that they called "nyah-rock".[3][4][5] The band formed in 1971 and released three albums before disbanding in 1974. After gaining newfound popularity when their music was sampled by many notable rap artists, Cymande reformed in the 2010s.[6]

  1. ^ Pearis, Bill (15 March 2022). "Cymande subject of new documentary, sign to Partisan, playing SXSW". Brooklyn Vegan. Retrieved 3 February 2023. British psychedelic funk legends Cymande, who formed in 1971 and have been active again since 2010, have signed with Partisan Records
  2. ^ "Interview: Q&A with Cymande – 'Rhythmic Caribbean Sensibility'". rhythmpassport.com. Rhythm Passport. February 2019.
  3. ^ Wang, Oliver (9 June 2016). "Cymande, London's Greatest Funk Band, on Return to Stage". Rolling Stone. Retrieved 8 June 2020.
  4. ^ "Interview: British Funk Icons Cymande". daily.redbullmusicacademy.com. Retrieved 8 June 2020.
  5. ^ Spice, Anton (1 December 2015). "The Message: How Cymande's cult funk debut shaped the golden age of hip hop". The Vinyl Factory. Retrieved 8 June 2020.
  6. ^ "Cymande | Biography & History". AllMusic. Retrieved 8 June 2020.