by Michael Deeds

DJ Logic will perform Thursday at Reef as part of the Willie Waldman Project, a freeform, instrumental-driven group fronted by Los Angeles’ most versatile trumpeter.

Waldman has played on mainstream albums by rappers 2Pac and Snoop Dogg, as well as those by rockers Perry Farrell and the Foo Fighters. His classical training helps him get session work on orchestral movie soundtracks – from “Spider-Man” to “Swordfish.”

Waldman Project personnel evolves, meaning its sound metamorphoses, too. Bassist Rob Wasserman of Ratdog has been a member. But at the moment, Waldman says, his group’s chemistry is less about the hippie-jam vibe and more of an R&B, jazz and hip-hop fusion.

The group performing at the Reef will include drummer and Stax Records veteran Terry Saffold (who played on albums by Al Green, Albert King and Sam & Dave, and currently drums for Isaac Hayes; singer-guitarist Ray White (who toured as Frank Zappa’s guitarist, meaning Zappa songs will likely find their way onto the setlist); and bassist Tom Daugherty, who engineered many Death Row Records rap albums. Artist Norton Wisdom will splash canvas while the band performs.

DJ Logic says he’s looking forward to collaborating with the eclectic, eccentric Waldman.

“You’ve got two oddballs coming together.” he explains with a laugh. “Every show that we’ve done, everybody is just amazed because they don’t know wat to expect…. We feel and vibe with each other really well.”

Acclaimed, creative bassist to play Willie Waldman Project back again by Aaron Davis

Willie Waldman Project is coming back to the Tetons, this time with DJ Logic, guitarist Ray White of Frank Zappa’s Band, and Wisdom the Painter, who paints on canvas while the improvisational jazz-rock take form. Trumpeter Waldman has tooted his horn for a number of great artists over the years including Rob Wasserman, Perry Farrell, Tupac Shakur, and Snoop Dogg.

Waldman and his crew will play 3-7 p.m. Tuesday during apres-ski and 8-midnight on Wednesday, February in the TRap Bar at Grand Targhee. Both of these shows are free. Call Targhee at (800) TARGHEE for more information.

Also on tap for the Jackson side is collaboration between Waldman’s Band and local instrumental-funk unit Fat Albert, scheduled for 10 p.m. Monday at 43 North. A $5 cover will get you in the door there. 43 North can be reached at 733-0043.

Waldman is known for bringing an ever-changing line-up of hot talent for his Latin-funk, improvisational style. Guitarist White was drafted into Frank Zappa’s band back in 1976, being featured on rhythm guitar and vocals on albums such as “Zappa in New York,” “Tinsel Town Rebellion” and “You Are What You Is.” More recently, he’s worked with jam-based groups KVHW and Umphreys McGee.

DJ Logic’s appearance is one of a few on Waldman’s tour this winter. Logic’s turntable skills seem to pop up at a lot of random shows, including Vernon Reid, Bob Weir’s Ratdog, Joh Mayer, Medeski, Martin & Wood and, most recently, The John Popper Project.

If your into experimental music, this ticket is for you!