The Alternate Routes: A Musical Odyssey Through Time
The Alternate Routes, an American indie-folk quartet, emerged as a beacon of heartfelt melodies and poignant lyrics in the early 2000s. Their signature song, "Time Is A Runaway," propelled them into the limelight and established their reputation as a band with an uncanny ability to capture the complexities of human emotion.
Origins and Early Struggles
Formed in 2003 in the bohemian enclave of Athens, Georgia, The Alternate Routes comprised Tim Warren (vocals, guitar), Eric Taylor (guitar, vocals), Chad Wallace (bass), and Michael Murphy (drums). Despite their talent, the band faced initial setbacks, struggling to gain recognition and secure a record deal. Undeterred, they persevered, honing their craft through relentless gigging and building a loyal grassroots following.
Breakthrough and Critical Acclaim
In 2007, The Alternate Routes released their debut album, "Good Company," which showcased their intricate harmonies and introspective songwriting. The album received widespread critical acclaim, earning them comparisons to the likes of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young and The Band.
Their sophomore album, "The Empty House," followed in 2009 and solidified their status as rising stars in the indie-folk scene. The album featured the breakout single "Time Is A Runaway," a hauntingly beautiful meditation on the fleeting nature of time. The song garnered immense radio airplay and propelled the band to a new level of success.
Continued Success and Controversies
Over the years, The Alternate Routes released a steady stream of critically praised albums, including "An American Symphony" (2012), "Forever In Your Heart" (2015), and "Roses and Revolution" (2018). Along with their musical accolades, the band also faced their share of controversies. In 2012, they found themselves at the center of a lawsuit filed by their former manager over unpaid commissions. The band ultimately settled the matter out of court.
Membership Changes and Current Status
Throughout their career, The Alternate Routes experienced several lineup changes. In 2014, Eric Taylor departed the band to pursue a solo career, and was replaced by Scott Smith. In 2018, Chad Wallace also left the band, with Tony Daigle taking over on bass.
As of 2023, The Alternate Routes continue to perform and release new music. Their latest album, "The Shape of Your Heart," was released in 2022 and received positive reviews. Despite the challenges and controversies they have faced, the band remains committed to creating heartfelt and meaningful music that resonates with their devoted fans.