The story of British band Cymande. Celebrated in the US, but facing indifference in the UK, they sadly disbanded too soon but their influence was significant, prompting their return some 40 years later
In the racially turbulent UK of the early 70s, a group of black musicians came together in South London with a common love of rhythms and a message of peace. Cymande – with the dove as their symbol – combined jazz, funk, soul and Caribbean grooves to form a unique sound. Despite success in the United States, they faced indifference in their native Britain, becoming disillusioned and disbanding in 1975.
But the music lived on, as new generations of artists imbibed and reworked their pioneering sounds in fresh ways. From Soul II Soul to De La Soul, MC Solaar to The Fugees, the Dove had spread Cymande's message far and wide, prompting their return after forty years. This is their story.
Extras
Presented in High Definition
A selection of extended clips chosen by director Tim MacKenzie-Smith (2022, 13 mins total): The genesis of Bra, Cut Chemist listens to Cymande, DJ Hollywood Bra rap, Jazzy Jay Cymande mix, Ruthless Rap Assassins
Deleted scene: Cymande school days (2022, 2 mins)
Steve Scipio and Patrick Patterson Q&A (2023, 34 mins): two members of Cymande are interviewed by journalist Jason Solomons
Black Music Parrty (7 mins): rare footage of Cymande performing in the 1970s
UK Trailer
**FIRST PRESSING ONLY** Illustrated booklet featuring new writing by Kevin Le Gendre, Tim Mackenzie-Smith and Greg Wilson and full credits
