"Al is without doubt one the most creative musicians I've had the pleasure to work with. He's gently honest in the studio, a truly instinctive improvisor, wonderful composer and selfless accompanist."
As a creative artist Al has been crafting Pointless Beauty since 2013. Cinematic Fusion for the Emotionally Curious.
"Years of searching taught me that finding my place meant making my place—creating a space where I could reshape expectations and build something truly my own. "
Catch all upcoming gigs on the Pointless Beauty tour page.
Al Swainger : bassist//composer//educator
your go to session bassist
As a session bassist, Al is known for adapting seamlessly to any style, with recent projects including the BBC National Orchestra of Wales, Blue Lion Function Band, Michele Drees Jazz Tap Project and art rock band Grice. Each collaboration is a chance to bring his unique sound and energy to a wide range of musical settings.
tailored lessons, lasting impact
For those on their own musical journey, I offer private lessons focused on sight-reading, improvisation, and music theory, helping musicians build confidence and refine their skills. I’m also proud to mentor young talents as the director of the Marlin School Jazz Band and as a guest tutor across various music institutions.
Let’s connect, collaborate, and make music that resonates.
"Al is without doubt one the most creative musicians I've had the pleasure to work with. He's gently honest in the studio, a truly instinctive improvisor, wonderful composer and selfless accompanist."
Gary Bamford
Composer / Multi-Instrumentalist
"Al is highly inventive and innovative, both sonically and musically, and is extremely intelligent in his approach to music. I would definitely recommend him to anyone wishing to add a sheen of professionalism to their music."
Grice
Composer / Producer / Vocalist & Multi-Instrumentalist
"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.
Ant Law
Composer / Guitarist
"A wonderful teacher who has a true love of music, which makes all the difference to students. Gave me the confidence to go to my first open-mic night too."
Kiera Osment
Singer Songwriter / Multi-Instrumentalist
"Al is a great player to work with and extremely musical. He's very prompt and provides great quality content that is in-keeping with the music. It was a great experience working with him, highly recommended!"
Ruth Royall
Singer Songwriter / Session Vocalist
"Al Swainger is an amazing bass player, we worked together on "One Thousand Birds" the 3rd studio album by British singer, songwriter, artist, producer GRICE! amazing sound and musical concept! i really loved to work with him.. hope we'll have the chance to share some music in future! I highly recommend him!"
Marco Maggiore
Drummer / Session Musician
"Al is at once rock solid and delightfuly creative, with extensive musical experience, in a wide range of settings and styles."
Jon Clark
Drummer / Percussionist / Session Musician
"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. ."
Annika Skoogh
Vocalist / Bandleader / Composer
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