Nick Colionne: Just Come On In

On Just Come On In (Three Keys), respected Chicago-based guitarist Nick Colionne showcases his Wes Montgomery-influenced sound on a varied collection of smooth-jazz tunes. The album opens on a bright note with “High Flyin’,” and then moves on to the swinging, high-spirited “It’s Been Too Long.” The mood turns duskier on the title track, which features Colionne’s deft give-and-take with saxophonist Steve Zoloto, and “The Scuffle” sets Colionne’s smooth guitar over snappy drums and staccato sax. Colionne tips his hat to Montgomery on the grooving “From the Wes Side,” and on “Drumbalaya” his guitar meets Latin-inflected percussion.

The album’s only misstep is the vocal track “Is It a Dream.” Colionne isn’t much in evidence here. The tune features a guest appearance by label head and keyboardist Marcus Johnson, who gets most of the available star turns, while Colionne is relegated to fills and too-brief solo flashes. Other than that, this is a solid offering from a talented artist.

Originally Published May 1, 2004