HOT SANDS, Mark's critically acclaimed debut release, is energizing and powerful. When listening to the tunes on HOT SANDS, you will know that you are experiencing something special; you'll feel the ocean, the waves, the sun and the stars; remember being young and wild, your first love and your last. And, most amazingly, you won't forget the songs. HOT SANDS features George Ruch on lead guitar, Jan Smulsky on piano, Bill "Skippy" Young on drums, Andre' Smith on Bass and the legendary Emile D'Amico on harmonica. HOT SANDS was produced by Andre' Smith and Mark Nicholas. In addition to the songs, it's really Mark's voice and live show that makes the presentation so totally inspiring. Rough and road-worn, natural and unique. Boston-based songwriter Mark Nicholas grew up in a small town on the New Jersey shore. "As kids we were free spirits, and we grew up quickly." That freedom has been transposed into the very essence of his music.