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Cymande is a British funk band that rose to fame in the early 1970s. The group consisted of members from various backgrounds including Guyana, Jamaica, and St. Vincent. The name Cymande is taken from a Calypso word which means "dove" in English. The band's music was a unique blend of Caribbean rhythms, funk, jazz, and soul with elements of African music. The band was formed in 1970 when Patrick Patterson and Steve Scipio, two Guyanese musicians who had just moved to London, met with musicians from other Caribbean countries including St. Vincent, Jamaica, and Trinidad. The musicians shared a love for music and quickly bonded over their unique cultural backgrounds. They started rehearsing regularly and eventually formed the band Cymande. Their debut album, released in 1972, was an instant hit. The album titled "Cymande" featured the iconic tracks "Bra" and "The Message", which became instant classics in the world of funk music. The band's sound was eclectic, and their music reflected their diverse cultural backgrounds, with elements of reggae, African rhythms, funk, and soul all blending into a unique sound. Cymande's music was heavily influenced by the political and social climate of the times. The band's lyrics often touched on issues such as racial injustice, social inequality, and the struggle for civil rights. Their music also reflected the optimism and hope of the early 1970s, a time when many people believed that music could bring about social change. Despite the band's success, Cymande disbanded after their third album was released in 1974. However, their music remained popular among fans of funk, and their influence continued to be felt in the world of music. In the late 1990s, Cymande's music was rediscovered by a new generation of music lovers. Their music was sampled by several hip-hop and rap artists, including De La Soul, Wu-Tang Clan, and The Fugees. In 2017, several members of the band reunited to perform at the British Summer Time concert series in London's Hyde Park. The reunion was well-received by the public, and the band has since continued to perform live shows. In conclusion, Cymande is a band that has left an indelible mark on the world of music. Their unique sound, which drew from the diverse cultural backgrounds of the band members, remains influential to this day. The band's commitment to social and political issues, as reflected in their lyrics, also makes them a significant force in the history of music. The fact that Cymande's music continues to resonate with audiences today is a testament to the timelessness of their sound and message.