Tony,
Water plays a huge factor. If you have trouble creating lather, buy a gallon of DISTILLED water (not just bottled water), and give it a try. Soft water makes creating lather easier. Hard water makes the job more difficult and will lead to quicker buildup on your brush. I like Williams, although I seldom use it anymore. It was about the only thing I had for the first three months that I started using a brush. And I think that is key as to why you and I can get great results with it. We know how to use it.
RT