ALBUM REVIEWS : *** SPYRO GYRA “Fast Forward” <i> GRP Records : </i>

This new installment in Sypro Gyra’s continuing collection of bright, frothy contemporary music has one or two unexpected twists. Most noticeable is saxophonist Jay Beckenstein’s extensive use of tenor and soprano saxophones--an appealing change from his past strong reliance on alto.

Less obvious, but more fascinating, is the inclusion of a track--”Speak Easy”--written by “additional musician” Jeff Beal which departs dramatically from the usual Spyro Gyra mix of Latin-tinged rhythms and vibes-timbred sounds. Trumpeter Beal’s composition, as well as his playing, have been powerfully influenced by the Miles Davis recordings of the ‘60s. While it does not represent a direction that would hold much future for Spyro Gyra, the track does provide some meat and potatoes for an otherwise low-calorie musical outing.