CYMANDE
Genres: World Fusion, RnB • United Kingdom

Cymande (See-mandy) are a British funk group that released several albums throughout the early 1970s and have recently reunited in 2014 with a European tour and a new album planned for release in 2015. The group was formed by Steve Scipio and Patrick Patterson in 1971 in London, England, along with musicians from Guyana, Jamaica and Saint Vincent. The name Cymande is derived from a Calypso word for Dove, symbolizing peace and love. The group developed a subtle and complex, deep funk style influenced by calypso rhythms, jazz, African music, American soul and UK rock of the time. By the mid-1970s the band members were going their separate ways, and the group disbanded in 1974. It was not until 20 years later that they reaped any financial rewards, as their music became a popular source for samplers. Cymande's original albums are still widely sought-after by DJs and funk aficionados. Perhaps the read more...