Review by Nick Caruana

Alternate Route, the latest album by Jeff Beal, is a captivating and dynamic collection of jazz compositions that showcase the composer's versatility and creativity. Beal, who is best known for his work composing music for film and television, has created a distinctive sound that blends elements of traditional jazz with more experimental and avant-garde styles.

The album opens with the title track, "Alternate Route," which features a driving rhythm section and intricate horn arrangements. Beal's trumpet playing is particularly impressive on this track, as he weaves complex melodic lines around the other instruments. "Hindsight" is another standout track, with its haunting piano intro and brooding saxophone solos. The album's closing track, "Onward," is a beautiful and uplifting piece that showcases Beal's gift for melody and his ability to create emotionally resonant music.

Throughout the album, Beal demonstrates a keen sense of musical storytelling, using his compositions to evoke a wide range of moods and emotions. His arrangements are always interesting and surprising, with unexpected shifts in tempo and instrumentation that keep the listener engaged. The musicians on the album, including saxophonist Bob Sheppard and drummer Antonio Sanchez, are all top-notch, and their performances are consistently impressive.

Summary by Nick Caruana

Alternate Route is a stunning album that showcases Jeff Beal's considerable talents as a composer and musician. Fans of jazz, as well as those who appreciate innovative and genre-defying music, are sure to find much to enjoy on this superb release.