Colin James

The Rocker

posted on Tue, 04 Dec 2007 19:33:42

Smooth Blues

Colin James

LIMELIGHT

MapleMusicRecordings 2005

Colin James has had an illustrious career as one of Canada’s most well respected artists. He’s won numerous awards and has sold millions of records. He changes styles more than Elton John changes wardrobes. Since he was discovered and renamed by Stevie Ray Vaughn around 1987, he’s played electric blues, fronted a swing band and recorded an award winning album of acoustic blues songs with another guitar legend, Colin Linden.
For his 10th CD, “Limelight”, his first for Maple Music Recordings, it’s once again Colin Linden who gives a helping hand. Colin James’ career as a guitarist almost parallels that of Eric Clapton. Start out playing the blues and eventually turn into an adult contemporary artist. But ‘Limelight’ comes off more as a tribute to legendary Irish singer/songwriter Van Morrison. Now take the storytelling and R&B of Van The Man and combine it with the guitar brilliance of both Colins and you get one hell of an enjoyable CD. Not only do the songs have that Van Morrison feel to them, but they have the horns to back them up. Another thing, are the fantastic covers of, not one, but two Van Morrison songs, to go with the haunting version of Bob Dylans, “Watchin’ The River Flow”. Check out the gospel feel of the first single, “Faraway Like A Radio”. Colin’s soulful voice has never sounded better. Add to this the help of some great songwriters, accomplished players and funky horns, that all come together, bringing Colin James out of the shadows and into the limelight. A place where he shines, like no other. Oh Canada! -The Rocker

for Dedicated Rocker Productions