Getting It Back: The Story of Cymande

TIM MACKENZIE-SMITH | 89'

Cymande is the greatest 1970s band you’ve possibly never heard of. But if you’ve listened to the Fugees, De La Soul or the Wu-Tang Clan – or simply been on a dance floor anytime in the past few decades – you’ll recognise their irresistible, infectious sound. Formed in south London by nine self-taught Caribbean-born musicians, Cymande meshed funk, soul, jazz and Caribbean grooves to create a music that was political, spiritual, and brilliantly ahead of its time.

This is their incredible untold story, embellished by interviews with Mark Ronson, Laura Lee and Mark Speer, DJ Maseo, Jazzie B, Cut Chemist and Louie Vega, among many other admirers in the industry. It’s one of joyous creativity stifled by political and institutional obstruction, carrying themes both relevant and urgent. And one that’s deservedly garnering Cymande new generations of avid fans.

Unsung and hugely influential, the British group Cymande was overdue for a documentary… Director Tim MacKenzie-Smith clearly has a lot of affection for the band. And so do we after watching his film.

Cymande’s music is so honest and personal that it sounds fresh and new today. This mix of politics and artistry makes the film important as it shines a light on a little-known but vital group of ground-breaking musicians. As Ronson notes, “The arc of history bends to the just”, so it’s no wonder that they are having a well-deserved resurgence.

Rich Cline, Shadows Off The Wall

Credits

Director: Tim Mackenzie-Smith
Producers: Matt Wyllie, Tim Mackenzie-Smith
Presented by: Main FM