ICA is closed from the 30 May – 3 June inclusive.
Getting It Back: The Story of Cymande, dir. Tim Mackenzie-Smith, United Kingdom 2022, 90 min., English
‘It’s like a magic spell.’ That’s just one description of Cymande’s output. Self-taught musicians from South London, the sons of Windrush parents, their music combined influences from funk, calypso, soul and jazz, all brought together to intoxicating effect. Following three great albums and some success in the US, they split in 1975, after being largely ignored in the UK and having experienced abhorrent racism from the music industry.
However, their recordings never stopped inspiring and influencing generations of artists and fans, from Jazzy Jay and The Fugees to My Morning Jacket and MC Solar. Featuring a wealth of archive footage, riveting interviews with band members and artists they inspired, as soon as this fascinating film ends, you’ll be adding the band’s albums to your playlist.
All films are ad-free and 18+ unless otherwise stated, and start with a 10 min. curated selection of trailers.
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