William Woods - Every Part Of Me (2005)

Familiarity breeds contentment, particularly among William Woods' smooth jazz fans. With Every Part of Me the medical doctor/pianist/composer rejuvenates his listeners with fresh, funky finesse on 11 new songs. Unlike Woods' 2005 Smoothie Award winner Cobalt Blue, his jazz piano voicing skills emerge from a darker space and logically progress into more exotic, advanced chords and substitutions as the program continues. "Alive, Living in Jersey," "Every Part of Me," and "As I Breathe You" are delivered with heartfelt emotion in a smooth jazz state of mind. Intuitive chord structures abound on "Under the Radar," as it gives Woods the chance to flaunt his beautiful technique. The highlight of the session is Woods' haunting melody on "The Fire Within." With the addition of flute, unusual changes, and shifting dynamic shadings, this song exudes soulful musical colors with its captivating sound. The Latin pulse underneath provided by percussionist Glen Caruba adds another noticeable dimension that Woods' fans are sure to enjoy. -- Paula Edelstein