Nick Colionne - No Limits (2008)

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 ~