With The Alternate Routes CD Good And Reckless And True you can instantly be reminded of sounds you have heard before (the lead singer reminded me of John Waite). It seems weird to say a band that is making music like this today is a throwback to an era gone by but it is true and actually a good thing in this case. Make no mistake about it this is a band of modern rockers that sound fresh and vibrant on their exciting debut.

I really like this music and this band. This album stands on solid ground backed by a legendary label known for presenting quality acts. I have to say they have done it again, made every effort to impress, and came up with a great rock band that offers some immense straight ahead rock music-11 tracks that put this talented group in a good light.

Firstly, you will recognize as I did, the lead singer Tim Warren on the catchy brilliant opener “Ordinary” (my pick for a single). He has a commanding voice that demands your attention. Not only is he a good vocalist that knows how to project his voice, he sings with a warmth and emotion that is rare in a rock band. Although their sound is not, principally unique it does border on several genres such as roots and alternative rock at times and even dabbles with some country rock flavors (think The Eagles or Jackson Browne) like on the closer “Please Don’t Let It Be.” They take some “alternate routes” if you will.

What I am getting at here is that this band is loaded with talent, enough in every position that they could take their music in any direction at will. The lead guitar playing of Eric Donnelly on the closing track is scorching red-hot not mention the stellar job he does on all the tracks prior to that. Kudos to the rest of the band as well…Chip Johnson (bass) and Stephen Chopek (drums) are a great rhythm section, they are tight and really hold it down from start to finish. Mike Sembos on keyboards and guitar adds some very selective tasty licks and layers of keys to take the edge off while Warren chips in with some acoustic strumming of his own.

Good And Reckless And True is the ultimate group effort that starts and ends on a superlative note, and everything in between is mighty fine too.

Artist: The Alternate Routes
Title: Good And Reckless And True
Genre: Rock
Label: Vanguard Records
Website
Amazon Link

Tracks:
01. Ordinary (4:08)
02. Who Cares? (3:23)
03. Hollywood (4:28)
04. Aftermath (3:36)
05. Going Home With You (4:32)
06. Time Is A Runaway (4:16)
07. Endless Conversation ( 3:29)
08. California (4:32)
09. Are You Lonely? (3:30)
10. The Black And The White (5:11)
11. Please Don’t Let It Be (4:47)

Credits:

Tim Warren: lead vocals, acoustic guitar
Eric Donnelly: electric guitars, vocals
Chip Johnson: bass, vocals
Mike Sembos: keyboards, guitar
Stephen Chopek: drums

© MuzikReviews.com

Keith “MuzikMan” Hannaleck