Being a freelance musician means the number of active projects varies all the time. The current COVID-19 emergency has mothballed everything as far as live performance for the time being sadly. Here are some of the projects that you can enjoy in some form online.
Music and art to stimulate your emotions.
Rich and eclectic atmospheres to help you daydream.
Music
A range of albums and singles are currently available on Bandcamp
Art
I've been making digital art since about 2014. I use my phone in combination with the Snapchat editor. I gave myself those limitations so that all the source material would be drawn from my daily experiences & be produced quickly. The images are mostly abstract but I usually have a train of thought that leads to the end result.
Blog
I'll be sharing bits of what it's like to be a self-employed creative here. New Pointless Beauty creations, snippets from other projects and info on my educational book 'Making Better Music'. If you fancy chipping in to 'buy me a coffee', or to offer support in any way you can, every penny and word of encouragement is gratefully received!
Ant Law
Guitarist & Composer
"Al is a serious artistic force. His artistry is expressed through numerous long-running creative projects. He channels his sonic inspiration in a variety of ensembles and is also a talented graphic artist. His work is difficult to categorise, straddling many different styles, consistently pushing the boundaries of composition and performance through use of electronics and technology. He doesn't neglect the acoustic angle either and is also a disciplined acoustic bassist. Al has a rare combination of qualities - creativity plus real organisational skill. He is indefatigable and has the drive and persistence to see things through.
Collaborations
Tributes to the jazz greats and writing collaborations. I'm also available as a session bassist for hire if you are interested in booking me for recording sessions.
Snow Giants
A heady mix of progressive rock, latin rhythms, heavy riffs and ambient soundscapes.
Improvised and post composed with
Mike Outram - Guitar & FX
Al Swainger - Bass, FX & Vocals
05RIC - Drums & Vocals
Biophosmos
Mix Chick Corea with Radiohead in a blender then use the resulting cocktail to write film music and you might get something a little like this...
This album is both tribute and a re-imagining of some Chick Corea’s greatest compositions through a modern lens of Pointless Beauty production.
The Art Trip
Featuring legendary UK saxophonist Alan Barnes. This is an authentic and loving tribute to the work of Art Pepper.
Alan Barnes - Alto Sax
Craig Milverton - Piano
Al Swainger - Double Bass
Nick Millward - Drums.
James Waymont
Composer, Drummer, Orchetrator, Arranger
"Wasn't expecting this sort of score at all but I really liked it! Makes you view the scene in a whole different light and puts you firmly in the head of Aaron Paul's character. Really refreshing to watch and a wonderfully written piece of music too! "
Julian Pinn
Motion Picture & Broadcast Industry Specialist
"Your score brought goosebumps to me and left the action exposed with little punctuation. You brought me on a journey into the mind of the guy. You've got an amazing talent.! "
Annika Skoogh
Vocalist, Bandleader & Composer
"As a regular member of my Quartet for many years, Al has contributed a lot with his musicianship, arranging skills and extensive knowledge of the music industry. A great musician, composer and a very safe pair of hands at any live performance or recording session. ."