Nick Colionne (2008)
| Artist: Nick Colionne |
Song Listing
| The title of guitarist/vocalist Nick Colionne's first release for Koch Records tells the whole story. Nick's previous CDs have focused on his love of jazz, but the unmistakable presence of multiple styles of music has always been there. This time around, Nick brings it all up front. The mix of tunes on No Limits is a true reflection of the full artist, including more vocals, in response to the many fans who are delighted with his rich baritone voice in concert and constantly ask why he hasn't sung more on his CDs! Two of those vocals, "Hard Line" and "Melting Into You" are co-written with the legendary Jim Peterik, of Survivor and Ides of March fame, who has penned the Top Ten pop classics "Eye of the Tiger" and "Vehicle." |
Album Notes and Credits
Notes & Personnel Info |
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Personnel: Nick Colionne (vocals, guitar, keyboards); Dave Hiltebrand (acoustic guitar, keyboards, bass synthesizer); James Perkins (saxophone); Mark Ohlsen (trumpet); David Gross (trombone); Mike Logan (piano, organ, keyboards); John Blasucci (Clavinet, organ, Wurlitzer organ, keyboards, programming); Paul Richmond (keyboards, programming); Tim Gant (keyboards); Khari Parker (drums); Felipe Fraga (percussion); Thom Griffin, Lisa McClowry (background vocals). |
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Audio Mixers: Craig Bauer; John Blasucci; Steve Weeder. |
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Recording information: Crush Production Studio, Elgin, IL (2008); Ravenswood Station Studio, Chicago, IL (2008); The Edge Productions Studio, Streamwood, IL (2008); The Music Gallery (2008); The Sound Bank, Northridge, IL (2008); World Stage Studios, Burr Ridge, IL (2008). |
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Guitarist and vocalist Nick Colionne's new recording is packed with an exciting blend of jazz, funk, R&B, and a touch of the blues. With the addition of his rich baritone voice, the fresh tracks on No Limits incorporate the many musical influences (including Wes Montgomery) Colionne has had throughout his career. The eclectic visions of two of his longtime bandmembers -- keyboardist John Blasucci and bassist Hollywood Dave Hiltebrand as well as the Grammy-winning songwriters Jim Peterik and Paul Richmond, turns this happening CD into one of Colionne's best works since "Keepin' It Cool" hit the airwaves. Opening with the high-energy title track, Colionne easily persuades his listeners that they have a mega hit in their players. This song rocks with all the charismatic tones and licks that initially lured his fans into his smooth jazz lair back in 2003 when Colionne blasted onto the national contemporary jazz scene. "Steppin' Back," a song sure to appeal to the urban dance steppers on the Steppers' Circuit, is jammed with thumping retro-funk grooves and is destined to become another vehicle that shows off Colionne's hottest stage moves. The Second City (Colionne's hometown) gets its rightful props on "The Big Windy Cat" just before Colionne segues into the sexy ballad "Melting into You." His passionate baritone voice is yet another reason to stay tuned to this amazing asset in his seemingly limitless repertoire. "Heading Wes Before Dawn" is one of the most beautiful songs on the CD and is a sterling tribute to late guitarist Wes Montgomery. With all of its beautiful colors and harmonic complements, Colionne has done Montgomery a great service with this ultimate and concise reference geared to fans of the guitarist. The set ends with a vocal and instrumental version of "Anyway" which will give undoubtedly give vocalist Will Downing's fans something to talk about since both of their sexy baritone voices have been driving women wild for years! But in the long run, it's Nick Colionne's guitar prowess that takes this CD to the next level and makes it highly entertaining, romantic, bluesy and definitely without limits. ~ Paula Edelstein |
Producer: Caroline Ray; John Blasucci; Nick Colionne; P. Richmond; Dave Hiltebrand |
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Engineer: P. Richmond; Steve Weeder |
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Compilation Appearances
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Ultimate Smooth Jazz 1S |
Technical Info
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Release Date : 06/24/2008 |
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Original Release Date : 2008 |
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Catalog ID : 4482 |
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Label : Koch (USA) |
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Number of Discs : 1 |
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Studio/Live : Studio |
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Mono/Stereo : Stereo |
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SPAR Code : n/a |
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UPC : 00099923448228 |
Professional Reviews
- "Colionne's fluid style is pleasing to the ear whether he's playing jazz or funk, ballads or uptempo tunes. He certainly gets to show off a range of styles, all anchored by his ear-pleasing hooks and delightful soloing."
Bio
Nick ColionneNick Colionne grew up in a household full of music - and at age 9 he began to learn guitar from his stepfather, Edward. By the age of 15 he turned pro, touring all over the world with famous artists and bands. Because he was usually the youngest band member, he would sometimes paint a mascara moustache on his upper lip to make himself look older - so imagine his embarrassment when his grandmother attended one of his concerts and promptly wiped said moustache off with her ever-present handkerchief!
Nick's mother Juanita made sure he knew the rules - he could have his professional career if he stayed in school and graduated. Now the recipient of the 1996 Malcolm X College Alumnus of the Year Award, Nick has been a mentor at St. Laurence K-8 School in Elgin, IL since 1994 where, inbetween performing and recording dates, he counsels, teaches music, computer music skills, guitar and assists with the talent shows for successive classes of eager students.
"Jazz was my upbringing, but initially pursuing a career as a sideman meant I had to become well versed in R&B, blues and heavy metal. When I play live, I incorporate all kinds of music and have a lot of fun. All of these styles have contributed to defining my own sound as an artist." Nick Colionne's charismatic stage presence, combined with his guitar virtuosity, are evidence he's succeeded; audiences love the excitement and energy he brings to every performance.
