Special EFX: Here To Stay

Although percussionist George Jinda and guitarist Chieli Minucci have parted after 14 years and 13 albums, EFX’s global fans need not fear deprivation. Jinda’s solo flight perpetuates the duo’s co-mingled world-beat music, abetted by a panoply of special guests.

The expected smooth-jazz ballad style of EFX is carried on Warren Hill’s alto sax for the title track, while guitarist Mark Whitfield illuminates “Lights Out.” A funk theme fuels “Real Deal,” and an exotic meld of Latin-African rhythms is evident on “Since You’ve Been Away” and “New Passage,” featuring the acoustic guitar of Chuck Loeb, with Gerald Veasley on bass and Mark Johnson on keyboards, Jinda’s transitional launch is as smooth as his sounds.

Originally Published September 1, 1997