Bio

A dynamic, well-established, 5-piece instrumental band from Melbourne that combines the spirit of jazz with the textures of groove, fusion and Latin.

The Romans (formerly The JaimZ Project) presents a wealth of industry experience (See below), musicians who have performed with the likes of Stevie Wonder, George Benson and Bob Sedergreen. 

The band’s primary focus is to build on an already extensive repertoire of original tunes, most of which feature strong and palatable melodies. The band also performs a selection of iconic 'fusion' covers (e.g. The Yellow Jackets, Jeff Lorber, John Scofield).  These Icons have helped shape The Romans’ ‘sound’ and style which first and foremost reflects the  compositional style of the band’s leader.

Despite a core focus on original instrumental tunes, The Romans  regularly collaborates with domestic and international vocalists as part of its performances.

The Romans has released two Albums ‘To a Flame’ in 2022 and ‘On Sydney Road’ in 2024.  It is planning the release of a third album in late- 2026 and is looking forward to showcasing new tunes ‘live’ ahead of the album's release.  

 

THE PLAYERS

Angelo Montalti

Composer/keyboards

 ..a series of collaborations over many years has nurtured a unique compositional style that is evident in the diverse collection of original groove, fusion and Latin tunes.

..Improvisational style turns naturally to a highly-energised performance but also reveals great touch in more subtle arrangements.

Angelo has a Graduate Diploma in Music Composition.

..Inspired by Pat Metheny, Chick Corea, Eumir Deodato and Santana.

 

Lachlan Davidson

SAXOPHONES/FLUTE

Lachlan graduated with distinction from The Victorian College of the Arts in 1983. Performing solos five times with the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra, lead Alto sax with The Australian art Orchestra and the Daryl Mckenzie Jazz Orchestra and many T.V. (Dancing with the stars/Australia-first 15 seasons) and concert performances (Frank Sinatra, Stevie Wonder, John Farnham, George Benson) also on many CDs and films. He released his first album as bandleader- composer in 1999 unLokked, “A hot night in Burwood” and has released three contrasting jazz albums as bandleader in 2020 with two Jazz fusion albums.  

Mike Williams

Electric Bass

Since the early 1970s, Mike has been consistently involved with 'Fusion' music, leading various bands, writing and performing original compositions with contemporary classics. In 2003, he released his own critically acclaimed CD album, "Equinox"

He has also performed, arranged and recorded for a diverse range of artists including; Linda Cable, Bob Venier, Joe Chindamo, Tony Gould, Cilla Black, Ronnie Corbett, Vince Jones, Joe Dolce, Gil Askey

A very early adopter of fretless and 5 string basses, his main influences are Anthony Jackson, Jaco Pastorius, Jimmy Haslip and J S Bach

Robert Xuereb

Electric Guitar

..known best for his work with ‘Yeah, Bad?’ and ‘Meridian Suns’. He has performed in various jazz and rock venues around Melbourne, at Jasper’s, Last Chance Bar, The JazzLab, Pariscat Jazz Club, Bar 303, the Moldy Fig and Open Studio. 

..an exceptional young talent inspired by Pat Metheny and John McLaughlin.

 

Lachlan Wallace

DRUMS/PERCUSSION

Lachlan graduated from The University of Adelaide in 1999. He has worked with The Australian Pops Orchestra, Wynton Marsalis and The Lincoln Centre Jazz Orchestra and the privilege of working with some incredible artists including Marina Prior, Michelle Nicole, Sarah Maclaine, Mark Levine (USA), Daniel Gassin, Andy Firth, Mark Fitzgibbon, Mel Searle, Jack Pantazis, Glenn Cannon, Sam Lemann, Gianni Marinucci and many other great artists. He has recorded two albums with ade ishs and The eMotion Band. Their second album recorded in 2023 “Expansion” was featured in the Autumn 2024 issue of “Dingo Australian Jazz Journal” Magazine. 

Inspired by Dave Weckl, Peter Erskine and Bill Stewart.