Special EFX

A word fusion ensemble inspired by jazz, Latin, rock, and new age music, Special EFX formed in New York City in 1982. The group was co-founded by American guitarist Chieli Minucci and Hungarian drummer George Jinda, and the self-titled album Special EFX marking the duo's debut in 1983. Modern Manners (1985), Slice of Lice (1986), Mystique (1987), Double Feature (1988), and Confidential (1989) all showcased the band's commercial blend of jazz-pop throughout the 1980s. 1990's Just Like Magic found George Jinda trading the electronic percussion of the band's previous albums for a more organic approach, and Special EFX maintained its prolific pace with records like 1991's Peace of the World and 1992's Global Village. Following the release of Body Language in 1995, however, the band's co-founders went their separate ways, with Jinda continuing to record new music under the Special EFX name. Not long after completing 1996's Here to Stay, he suffered a stroke and fell into a long coma, eventually passing away on January 11, 2001. Meanwhile, Minucci — who had launched a well-received solo career following his departure from the band, releasing albums like 1995's Jewels, 1996's Renaissance, and 1998's It's Gonna Be Good — chose to honor his former bandmate by occasionally releasing new music under the Special EFX banner. This allowed Special EFX's music to move into 21st century, during which period Minucci released albums like 2003's Party, 2010's Without You, 2017's Deep as the Night, and 2020's All Stars.