DJ Williams Projekt: Projekt Management

Self-taught guitarist DJ Williams inserts just enough rhythmic punch in his compositions to keep things from veering into Muzak territory. There are times when his ensemble Projekt Management sound like they’re revisiting ’60s soul-jazz, while other times they explore soul or funk, but drummer Dusty Simmons, bassist Todd Herrington and keyboardist Brian Mahne usually maintain a discernible, prominent groove.

Williams isn’t obsessed with speed or volume, and takes time carefully constructing his solos, not simply spewing out lines and returning to the head. Saxophonist Gordon Jones is a good second solo voice, though he frequently doesn’t get enough time or room to really stretch out. Some of the disc’s better pieces include the opener “4th Street,” which has a sharp and taut Williams contribution as well as “Projekt Management,” “Panacea” and “Heavy Hands.” While there’s time when things get too relaxed and the beats become a bit static, the overall results of DJ Williams’ Projekt Management are more positive than forgettable.

Originally Published November 1, 2005