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Formed in the early 1970s in London by musicians from the Caribbean, Cymande (pronounced sah-man-day) is the most influential Black British band of its generation. Pioneers of a unique sound fusing jazz, funk, soul, and Caribbean grooves, the group made history (as the first British band to play at New York’s Apollo Theater) before being widely sampled by hip-hop icons (De La Soul, The Fugees, MC Solaar...).

A cult history and a masterful comeback The band’s incredible journey is now at the heart of the acclaimed documentary Getting It Back: The Story Of Cymande, which traces their immense influence through testimonials from Mark Ronson, Khruangbin, and Jazzie B.

But Cymande’s talent isn’t confined to the past: led by founders Patrick Patterson and Steve Scipio, the group is making a strong comeback with Renascence (BMG).

Recorded in London, this critically acclaimed new album recaptures the magic of their early days while infusing it with a vibrant modernity, enhanced by collaborations with singer Celeste and Jazzie B (Soul II Soul).

After setting the stages of Glastonbury and New York’s Central Park ablaze before audiences of all generations, Cymande is coming to the Nice Jazz Festival. A historic encounter with the pioneers of groove!