Cymande Shines With ‘Renascence’ Cuts & A Classic On KCRW’s ‘Live From HQ’

Cymande delivered a session for Los Angeles-based radio station KCRW’s Live From HQ performance series. The group offered songs from their new album, Renascence, along with a classic tune.

Renascence arrived on January 31 and marked Cymande’s first album in a decade following 2015’s A Simple Act of Faith. Formed in London in 1971, Cymande disbanded in 1974 after the release of their album, Promised Heights.

“Renascence picks up where their 1974 album Promised Heights left off,” press materials for the new album noted, “a spiritual and sonic follow-up, bringing a fresh modern edge to their iconic sound, which remains foundational to early hip-hop and funk scenes in the United States and U.K.”

Led by original members guitarist Patrick Patterson and bassist Steve Scipio, the band also includes vocalist Raymond Simpson, keyboardist Adrian Reid, drummer Richard Bailey, percussionist Donald Gamble, alto saxophonist Denis Cofie, tenor saxophonist Denys Baptiste and trumpeter Kevin Davy.

Cymande began their KCRW session with Renascence deep cut “Sweeden.” The band followed with singles “Chasing An Empty Dream” and “How We Roll.” Cymande concluded the performance with the classic “Bra” off their 1972 self-titled debut album.

Watch Cymande perform for KCRW below: