Apprendre à jouer l'album : Cymande

“Cymande”: The Founding Album of British Funk

The eponymous album “Cymande” by the British group Cymande, released in 1972, is a milestone in the history of funk music. This debut album helped define the sound of British funk, skillfully blending elements of African music, soul, reggae and jazz to create a unique sonic experience. In this essay, we will explore this iconic album in depth, examining its context, songs, influence, and lasting legacy.

The Emergence of British Funk

When “Cymande” was released in 1972, the British music scene was booming, but funk was still relatively unknown outside the United States. London-formed band Cymande brought a unique perspective to the genre. The band members, from different ethnic backgrounds, drew on their varied influences to create a distinctive sound. Cymande's funk was both exotic and familiar, and he quickly attracted attention.

The Sound Signature of “Cymande”

One of the striking characteristics of “Cymande” is the fusion of musical styles. The band integrated elements of African music, reggae, soul, jazz and funk to create a mesmerizing sonic experience. The album's songs are punctuated by captivating percussion, hypnotic basslines and energetic horns. The judicious use of flutes and saxophones adds a touch of sophistication to the ensemble.

The Impact of “Cymande”

“Cymande” quickly gained popularity, particularly in dance circles and radio stations specializing in African-American music. The album managed to peak at No. 85 on the Billboard Top LPs and No. 24 on the Soul Albums chart in the United States. Two singles, “The Message” and “Bra,” also met with moderate success, reaching No. 22 and No. 51, respectively, on the Soul Singles chart. “The Message” even climbed to number 48 on the Billboard Hot 100.

The Memorable Songs of “Cymande”

The “Cymande” album features a set of memorable songs, each with its own distinct charm. Among the most notable tracks, “Zion I” opens the album with heady percussion and swirling brass. “Bra” is a funk classic, characterized by an irresistible groove and hypnotic basslines. “The Message” is a captivating ballad that showcases the vocals of singer Ray King. “Dove”, with its extended duration of over ten minutes, offers an immersive musical experience that captures the essence of the group.

The Composition of the Group

The ethnic diversity of Cymande's members has played a key role in creating their signature sound. The band members came from different backgrounds, bringing with them a wealth of musical influences. The band consisted of Ray King (vocals, percussion), Peter Serreo (tenor saxophone), Michael “Bami” Rose (alto saxophone, flute, bongos), Pablo Gonsales (congas), Sam Kelly (drums), Joey Dee (vocals , percussion), Derek Gibbs (alto and soprano saxophone), Steve Scipio (bass), Patrick Eaton Patterson (guitar), and producer John Schroeder.

The Legacy of “Cymande”

The influence of “Cymande” extends far beyond its initial release period. The band's unique sound inspired many other artists and groups, contributing to the evolution of funk and groove. Later musicians and producers have sampled tracks from “Cymande” into their own compositions, continuing the band's legacy. Additionally, the group was rediscovered by new generations, cementing their status as funk legends.