Last Night's Mixtape

Since we’re talking about London, I thought it would be appropriate to bring up the London-based 70s funk/reggae/calypso/soul/rock band Cymande (pronounced Sah-mahn-day).  My homie, Patrick, sent me the  link to this Cymande mixtape from Breath of Life earlier today, and I just had to share.   If you’re not already familiar, this is the perfect introduction.  If you’re already a fan, this is the perfect mixtape.  BOL’s write up on the band is pretty nice, so I’ll just let you read about Cymande there (you should definitely read up on this band).  While you’re there, make sure you look around and tap into the wealth of knowledge and buttery mixtapes that they have to offer too.

I first fell in love with Cymande after watching Girl Skateboards‘ Mouse, back when I was just a little man.  I have very fond memories of me and my homies watching the video (in VHS format, of course) multiple times a day, before and after skating.  I would venture to say that it’s one of Spike Jonez’ best films, but I’m biased.  Anyway, it was through this video and other amazing skate videos and their soundtracks that I actually started developing a broader taste in music (you know, not just hip hop and punk rock).  In fact, the soundtrack for Mouse is permanently programmed in my brain.  I can pretty much just replay it in my head at will.  Peep the video (a la youtube), with sound track credits and everything, for yourself.

Dang, it’s crazy to think that this video came out 13 years ago.  Props to Rick Howard, Mike Carroll, Eric Koston, Jeron Wilson and Guy Mariano, who are all still skating for Girl today.