Decades of reverence and an almost mythical status in the Funk genre preceded Cymande's resurgence onto the music scene. After a hiatus of a decade, during which their sampled tracks became foundational for hip-hop, the band regrouped a decade ago. Their recent stop at the packed Trianon theater in Paris' Red Light district was a testament to their enduring appeal.
As the clock struck nine, the air crackled with anticipation, a concoction of sweat, beer, and perhaps some contraband substances. The crowd's roar welcomed the British outfit, surprising even the musicians themselves. Guitarist Patrick Patterson quipped, "You do realize we're not The Beatles, right?"
Then, without preamble, the journey into the groove began. Funk, Soul, Reggae, Calypso – Cymande tossed these genres into a blender, serving up a funky concoction they term Nyah Rock. Whatever it meant, it pulsated with infectious energy. Soulful vocals, precise horn arrangements, hypnotic bass lines, and vibrant guitar melodies wove together seamlessly. The atmosphere was charged with camaraderie and joy, infecting every soul in the audience with good vibes.
Classic tracks like "The Message," "Bra," and "Brothers On The Slide" ignited a frenzy of movement. From the first beat, bodies swayed and feet tapped, refusing to be tethered to seats or stillness. The energy didn't wane until the final note, and some even danced on, long after the lights dimmed and the musicians departed. But then, perhaps, those were the ones indulging in the aforementioned contraband...
