Cymande, sometimes referred to as the 'Calypso Rock' or 'Nyah-Rock' band, is a British group originating from London, England. They formed in 1971 and are renowned for their unique blend of funk, soul, and jazz. Their music is characterised by the infectious rhythmic blend of Caribbean, African, and American influences.
In the 1970s, Cymande achieved considerable recognition with hits like 'The Message' and 'Bra'. Their eponymous debut album 'Cymande' released in 1972, is a seminal work that has been sampled by many hip-hop artists in later years. The band disbanded in 1974 but reunited in the late 2010s, continuing to perform and release new music. Despite initial success, their impact grew over time, particularly influencing the evolution of hip-hop, funk, and soul genres.