The legendary British band Cymande (@cymandeofficial) recently released their stunning new track “Only One Way” featuring highly acclaimed British singer-songwriter Celeste (@celeste). This is the second offering from the band’s eagerly anticipated studio album, “Renascence,” set for release on January 31, 2025, via BMG.
Cymande – “Only One Way” Single featuring Celeste (Official Visualizer)
“Only One Way,” is an uplifting and beautiful song laced with a delicate piano melody and a lush string arrangement that gorgeously showcases Celeste’s unique and soulful voice.
One of Cymande’s founding members, Patrick Patterson, commented on the collaboration: “We got together in New York some time ago. Celeste approached it melodically and lyrically from a perspective we thought was great. We came back to the UK and perfected it. Her performance is wonderful. It deserved an orchestral arrangement, and we had an arranger, Chris Cameron, who could elevate it up to the firmament. He did a brilliant arrangement.”
Celeste
Speaking on the process of making the track, Celeste says: “It was a blustery New York day, I had just performed at Carnegie Hall and was asked if I’d like to meet Cymande at a studio close by to Broadway. I immediately put my hat and coat on and made my way to meet Patrick and Steve at the studio. We spoke for a little while about all being Caribbean and then Patrick began to play the guitar, the words and the melody came so naturally, and we cut a vocal that day. We then met some months later to refine it all, in one of the first studios I’d been to many years before on Latimer Road, I think still partly owned by Damon Albarn, but now part of the Miloco studios. That’s when I met Adrian Reid, who made me feel so at ease and kindly offered me some piano lessons in the following months. It all felt like a healing and enlightening experience to be around the guys, to hear their stories, see their faces, and understand who they were and who they are now. Cymande had remained this great mystery to me, as I am sure they did to many others for a long period of time – these legends of this mystical cross-genre – and to hear their account of their journey in music firsthand, was affirming and assuring.”
Cymande
Tonight, Cymande will also be honored with the ‘Originator Award’ at the Artist & Manager Awards. The prestigious ceremony celebrates exceptional individuals who pioneer and forge new pathways in the music industry.
2024 continues to mark a monumental year for Cymande, with the earlier release of their incredible documentary “Getting It Back: The Story Of Cymande” (directed by award-winning director Tim Mackenzie-Smith).
The band also recently made their UK TV debut on Later… With Jools Holland, performing their new single “Chasing An Empty Dream” and their classic song “Bra.” Later, they will embark on a U.S. headline tour, hitting major markets like New York and Los Angeles in February 2025.
Cymande – “Renascence” album
Cymande’s new album “Renascence,” set for release on January 31, 2025, is a true return to form and a jewel in the crown of their iconic discography. The project picks up where their 1974 album “Promised Heights” left off – 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 UK. “Renascence” tells the story of a band that never fully got their due back in the day. Now, they are back to take the crown by remaining true to themselves – politically aware, and spiritually positive with infectious grooves.
“Renascence” will be available to stream and download on CD and black vinyl at all major retailers. A limited edition transparent coral vinyl edition will be made available on the band’s official online store and at select indie retail accounts.
We recommend adding Cymande’s “Only One Way” single to your favorite R&B soul playlist. We would love to hear your thoughts! Please comment below and let us know how this song makes you feel. Remember, your feedback helps us bring you more of the music you love to discover. As always, thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment. We’re your go-to source for new music and positive entertainment news. Remember, (P)ositive (E)nergy (A)lways (C)reates (E)levation—P.E.A.C.E.
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