James Colley is a singer/songwriter who brings together southern roots and a California upbringing to create a sound that is part rock and part classic country. Raised in Bakersfield, James found his musical inspiration in the works of Johnny Cash, M [+]James Colley is a singer/songwriter who brings together southern roots and a California upbringing to create a sound that is part rock and part classic country. Raised in Bakersfield, James found his musical inspiration in the works of Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Neil Young, The Stones and Lou Reed. James' vocal style is rebellious, reminiscent of many of country music's greats, but his true musical talent rests squarely in his songwriting abilities. The debut album, California Skin, brings superb lyrical arrangements that flaunt a youthful enthusiasm along with true Americana grit.
At 18, James left Bakersfield and moved north to San Francisco in pursuit of a career in music. Arriving at the height of the infamous dot.com boom, James made his home in a resident's hotel inside the Tenderloin district. It was during that time when he met fellow singer/songwriter Manny Bernal, who invited James to play bass in an experimental music band called Fleeting Trance. For almost five years James played with the band as they toured regularly throughout the West Coast. The band released numerous live and studio recordings and has the distinction of being among the most frequently featured local groups in San Francisco.
In early 2003, James decided to leave Fleeting Trance to concentrate on his own musical efforts. He teamed up with long-time friend and producer Alex James Muscat and the two began recording tracks for James' debut album. The resulting nine song record was released on August 7th, 2004 and includes contributions from former Fleeting Trance band mates, Scott Robertson and Robert Johnson as well as Jesse Dyen and Jen Faith, of local San Francisco fame. Released on Muscat's label, Last Stop Records, California Skin, is an eclectic blend of California country and good honest rock and roll.
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