Guitarist and vocalist DJ Williams, known for his electrifying stage presence and knack for impressive songwriting, recently unveiled his EP “By Way of RVA.” This release was followed by the announcement of a 26-date U.S. summer tour, underscoring Williams’ robust engagement with his fans and the music community. Released on March 1st, the six-track EP spans nearly 25 minutes of innovative music that combines elements of funk, soul, and rock, reflecting his artistic growth and deep roots in Richmond, VA.
The opening track, “Fade Away,” immediately sets the tone for the EP, encapsulating the essence of Williams’ musical journey with compelling songwriting and a blend of vocals, guitar, and drums that collectively create a memorable vibe. This track is a standout for its complete sound and is highlighted as a listener favorite for its replay value.
Following this strong start, “Burnin Ash” elevates the energy with its soaring vocals and solid guitar work, creating a perfect harmony that enhances the listening experience. This track confirms Williams’ ability to merge vocal intensity with instrumental excellence, delivering a powerful musical statement.
The EP’s title track, “By Way of RVA,” introduces a more soulful approach. Here, Williams employs a subdued, funk-oriented guitar line, creating a backdrop that boombap producers (and many DJ’s) might find ripe for sampling. The smooth and soulful elements in this track are a complete standout and exemplify the type of rich, layered music that has historically been sampled to create similar iconic hip hop tracks and more.
“Mr. Nobody” reignites the album’s initial energy with robust guitar and drum lines, overlaid by Williams’ signature vocal style and cadence. This track injects a burst of energy at the midpoint of the EP, emphasizing the artist’s flair and range for dynamic performance.
The cover of Nirvana’s ‘Heart Shaped Box’ offers a unique reinterpretation of the iconic song, beginning with an ominous, subtle choir-like vocal arrangement that soon blends into a rich instrumental backdrop. This seamless integration of vocals into the full composition is strikingly impressive. Reminiscent of Childish Gambino’s iconic and creative approach, this rendition stands out as a significant highlight of the EP. It showcases DJ Williams’ seasoned expertise as a producer, demonstrating his ability to transform iconic tracks into something distinctly his own, while paying homage with meticulous skill and thoughtfulness.
Concluding the EP, “Turn Of Events” revisits earlier influences but introduces a reggae-like vocal rhythm that blends beautifully with warm guitar tones, creating a distinctively creative and appealing sound. This track serves as an excellent finale, showcasing Williams’ innovative approach to songcraft and musical expression.
Listen to the EP on Spotify here.
Tour Details
Following the release of “By Way of RVA,” DJ Williams kicked off a 26-date summer tour across the United States, beginning on May 3rd in New Orleans at Le Bon Temps Roule. This tour aligns with the New Orleans Jazz Fest After Dark, setting the stage for a series of performances that promise a vibrant mix of tracks from Williams’ extensive repertoire.
Williams is joined by the exceptional talents of drummer Ben Atkind, bassist Steph Orsini, and keyboardist Macon Mann, each bringing their own unique flavor to the ensemble. The tour is not just a showcase of Williams’ latest EP but a broader celebration of his musical journey, offering audiences a chance to experience his dynamic performances live.
For fans eager to catch DJ Williams in action, details and tickets for the ongoing tour can be found on his official website at www.djwilliamsmusic.com. This tour is an opportunity not only to hear his latest work but to witness the energy and passion that Williams brings to the stage, ensuring an unforgettable live music experience.
Final Thoughts
DJ Williams’ ‘By Way of RVA’ beautifully showcases his deep connection to his musical roots and his versatility as an artist. With a vibrant blend of funk, soul, and rock, this EP not only spotlights Williams’ remarkable musicality but also his dynamic presence as a live performer. As he embarks on his summer tour across the United States, this release is sure to captivate and delight audiences. Truly impressive, ‘By Way of RVA’ suggests exciting possibilities for Williams’ future projects. If this EP is a hint of what’s to come, we can’t wait to see where DJ Williams’ talent takes him next.
