Wendy Colonna

Wendy Colonna is hot, no question, but the Austin singer-songwriter's considerable musical talents make her sassy sexuality secondary — perhaps an even greater achievement. With smoky vocals that call to mind Norah Jones or Joan Osborne, Colonna's expansive musical domain encompasses rock, soul, jazz and blues, making her something of an all-purpose woman. That versatility can be heard — and seen — on her new release Old, New, Borrowed, and Blue: Live at Antone's. A sprawling package of two music CDs and one live DVD recorded at the venerable club (plus interviews), it finds Colonna backed by her regular band as well as an ensemble of local musicians. While we don't get to see a demonstration of her reputed mad kickboxing skills along with her guitar playing, the project is one that should elevate Colonna's status regionally, if not nationally.