Chic : Chic-Ism

Length: 62:47

  Al Brown & His Tunetoppers - Strings
  Al Brown - Strings
  Bernard Edwards - Bass, Vocals
  Brenda King - Vocals
  Brenda White-King - Vocals
  Briz - Vocals (Background)
  Dennis Collins - Vocals, Vocals (Background)
  Elena Barere - Strings
  Fonzi Thornton - Vocals, Vocals (Background)
  Frederick Zlotkin - Strings
  Gerald Tarack - Strings
  Geraldo Velez - Percussion
  Gerardo Velez - Percussion
  Jenn Thomas - Vocals
  Julien Barber - Strings
  Juliet Haffner - Strings
  Mac Gollehon - Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Piccolo Trumpet
  Marti Sweet - Strings
  Matthew Raimondi - Strings
  Max Ellen - Strings
  Michelle Cobbs - Vocals, Vocals (Background)
  Mitsue Takayama - Strings
  Nile Rodgers - Guitar, Vocals
  Oscar James - Strings
  Princessa - Rap
  Regis Iandiorio - Strings
  Richard Hilton - Keyboards
  Richard Locker - Strings
  Richard Sortomme - Strings
  Sonny Emory - Drums
  Stan Harrison - Sax (Alto), Sax (Tenor)
  Sterling Campbell - Drums
  Steve Elson - Sax (Alto), Sax (Baritone), Sax (Soprano), Sax (Tenor)
  Sylver Logan Sharp - Vocals
  Tawatha Agee - Vocals, Vocals (Background)
  Winterton Garvey - Strings

'Doin' That Thing to Me' contains a reference to the mythological wizard Merlin in its lyrics. By some strange twist of nature, mythology was certainly at work when those reviewing Chic-Ism on its release in 1992 dismissed it purely because Chic were old hats. In actuality, the worst thing about it is the cover. Chic-Ism certainly isn't likely to make album of the century listings, but as Chic albums go, it's fine if a tad '80s, which is to be expected as it was recorded only two years into the '90s. What were critics expecting of Chic -- synthesizers a la Kraftwerk ? Kicking in with the infectious 'Chic Mystique,' a little too long at six and a half minutes, it's pretty much business as usual. This leads into 'Your Love' and 'Jusagroove,' both keeping pace before slowing down for 'One and Only One.' 'In It to Win It' is a perfect update of their New York disco-funk style, a recipe that bands like the Brand New Heavies emulated in later years. The last stretch of the album includes 'High,' a beauty that is close enough a slowed down 'Good Times.' 'MMFTCF (Make My Funk the Chic Funk)' and a better edited reprise of 'Mystique' conclude. ~ Kelvin Hayes, All Music Guide

CD reissue of the 1992 comeback album, which reached #39 on Billboard R&B charts, by the pioneering Disco/Funk/Soul band led by songwriters/producers Nile Rodgers and Bernard Edwards. Features 'Chic Mystique', 'Your Love' and 'Doin' That Thing To Me'. Wounded Bird. 2007.